Time is running out for us to prevent a disorderly Brexit. The United Kingdom has to decide before 12 April what should happen next. Otherwise it will be a no-deal Brexit, as tough as that would be. It is impossible to understand that, two years after the decision in favour of Brexit, there is still no agreement on an orderly withdrawal.

All I can say is that Germany and the EU are well prepared for any eventuality. We have adopted laws and taken precautions which will protect citizens on both sides of the Channel from many unpleasant consequences of a no-deal Brexit. That is and remains our main concern.