Francois Hollande Says Brexit Talks Must End By 2019

Talks on Britain leaving the European Union must be finished by 2019, French President Francois Hollande has said.

"This choice means that Britain, once it leaves, cannot take part in European decisions," Mr Hollande told an annual gathering of French ambassadors.

"It will not be able to access the single market unless it accepts the four freedoms, all its regulation and budgetary solidarity."

He said Prime Minister Theresa May had tough decisions to take and that she needed time, but that she could not wait on triggering exit talks.

"It would neither be good for Britain nor acceptable for Europe," Mr Hollande continued.

"For France, everything must be concluded by 2019."

To begin the formal process of leaving the EU, Mrs May needs to trigger Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty, which will start the two-year process of splitting from the bloc.

There has been constant speculation since Mrs May replaced David Cameron last month about when that will happen.

The PM is expected to ask her Cabinet ministers to set out how how their department is preparing for Brexit when they gather on Wednesday.

Her top team will meet at the PM's country retreat Chequers to discuss the next steps.

Reports in recent days have suggested Mrs May could trigger Article 50 without holding a vote in Parliament.