Theresa May says Brexit deal still 'achievable' despite differences

She said it was "frustrating" the two sides could not agree how to guarantee no hard border in Northern Ireland.

The issue could not "derail" the chances of striking a deal, she said.

And she sought to reassure critics of her approach that the UK would not end up in "permanent limbo" tied to EU customs rules.

Meanwhile, ahead of a crunch summit of European leaders this week, German Chancellor Angela Merkel warned a deal was looking "more difficult" because of the border question.

"If it doesn't work out this week, we must continue negotiating, that is clear - but time is pressing," she added.

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And Donald Tusk, the president of the European Council, urged both sides not to give up, suggesting a deal "always seems impossible until it is done". 

In the Commons, Mrs May faced pressure from both sides of the Brexit debate as she gave a statement to MPs.

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