Macron: Brexit deal 'appears to be positive'

However he told journalists that it is necessary to “remain reasonably prudent”.

Speaking to France Info, President Macron said: “We have had some good news this morning, with the completion of a deal that appears to be positive both for the EU and for the British side.

“Now it is necessary to pass through the next steps and, bearing in mind what has happened so far, it is necessary to be reasonably prudent.

“This deal allows us, I think, to respond to both our and the UK’s political and technical concerns.

“There will then be ratifications by the British and European parliaments and it is at that point that things may be finalised.

“At this stage we can only be satisfied that the negotiations have, at least, ended up with something positive.”

Asked if he is optimistic, he said: “I am always optimistic.

“I think that assuming that the negotiators, having perhaps better integrated on the British side the constraints and expectations of the parliament which caused a blockage a few months ago, consider that the conditions have been fulfilled, it is no doubt more likely to be ratified.

“Our negotiators have, since the beginning, defended our concerns, our red lines, our will to preserve the future of Europe, the coherency of the single market and the four freedoms.”