jim: "And, besides, I thought the Brexit philosophy was that no deal was better than a bad deal. Here too, no? " - indeed, I would not expect any negotiating opponent to not want to get the best they can for their side. The fact we are even talking means that both sides feel there is a benefit for them, so they must of course compromise in order that both win. I'd rather do that with the US than the EUSSR, who employ bizarre tactics that more or less ensure failure. EG they demand one subject is agreed on before even talking about the rest thus stalling the negotiations at the first hurdle, eg the divorce payment.