Sorry Goldie but that last paragraph simply isn't true. We are free to talk with them but cannot sign off deals till we leave. We are talking tot lots of countries aboutna huge range of issues. To be honest I find the EU stance around loyal cooperation a bit farcical. We are leaving so I think the EU knows how loyal we are! And they can't tell any of their members who they can and can't talk to.
It's more restrictive than signing off on contracts, Dan, You're right, there have been some preliminary talks. Signals of intent. But there have been no substantive talks. The UK are precluded from doing so while a member of the EU, and third party countries don't want to queer the pitch with the EU by doing stuff with the UK behind its back.
We'll do a deal with the US, but no one has a clue what it will be at this stage. The press are left to discuss hormone injected cows and chlorine washed chickens. May has met Trump but in terms of future trading relations, the stage we're at is what the lawyers call "invitations to treat" at present with no contractual terms agreed. I imagine Parliament will want its say when the serious stuff starts.
