Theresa May has told EU leaders she wants a “deep and special relationship” with the bloc after holding talks with Brussels chiefs in Downing Street.

European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and EU’s main Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, had dinner with the Prime Minister and David Davis, in what was described as a “constructive” meeting.

Few details about the content of the discussion were released, but the forthcoming EU summit this weekend is likely to have featured.   

“Following the UK’s letter of notification under Article 50 (on its departure from the EU), she reiterated the UK’s commitment to achieving a deep and special partnership with the European Union.

“The PM and president Juncker also discussed a range of other international issues in a useful working dinner.”

A spokesman for the Commission also described the meeting as “constructive”.

“They discussed the broader geopolitical agenda and issues of strategic interest to both,” he said.

“President Juncker and Prime Minister May discussed the Article 50 process ahead of his participation in the European Council on April 29.”

www.independent.co.uk