DIVORCE DEAL
What is the difference between a soft and hard Brexit?
What options are on the table for a deal between Britain and the EU over Brexit?
THE Tories have been bickering among themselves over whether or not the UK should opt for a a soft Brexit since the referendum.
Negotiations between the Government and the EU began on June 19 - but what is the difference between a soft and hard Brexit?
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What is a soft Brexit?
A soft Brexit is generally the term to describe the UK maintaining close relationship with the European Union.
This could involve being part of a customs union, in which we would have common external tariffs with the EU and negotiate trade deals as one with them.
Some Tories, such as Nick Boles, have argued to a Norway-style soft Brexit in which the UK would have access to the Single Market.
Some senior Conservatives argued for closer links between Britain and the EU and also said Labour and other parties should have a say in the final deal.
A softer Brexit could see the UK making payments into EU budgets and accepting the "four freedoms" of movement of goods, services, capital and people.
Free access for European nationals to work and settle in the UK would also continue.
A soft Breixt could also include a customs union and greater protection for workers rights.
How would it be different to a hard Brexit?
A hard Brexit would take Britain out of Europe's single market.
It could also see Britain leave the trade agreement completely, allowing us to strike deals with other nations around the globe.
Anti-EU voices insist a hard Brexit must be met to satisfy the wishes of the Brexit referendum vote.
That would mean Britain severs all formal free trade ties with the continent, leaving it free to negotiate new trade links with countries including the USA, China, India and Commonwealth states.
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More on Brexit
What is the latest on Brexit?
Boris Johnson has scrapped all staff holiday until the Brexit deadline as he "urgently" prepares the country for No Deal.
The PM has repeatedly stated the UK will be leaving the bloc "do or die" by October 31.
But he has said he prefers to leave with a deal, which includes abolishing the Irish backstop.
Ministers have also been told to get their 2019/2020 budget plans by September to make room for Brexit.
EU representatives are in the process of ramping up No Deal planning.