Commenting on the announcement that UK-EU negotiations will continue, BCC Director General Adam Marshall said:

"This is a very frustrating time for business as they anxiously wait for decisions about the terms of trade with the EU come Jan 1.

"If a few more hours or days makes the difference, keep going - and get an agreement that delivers clarity and certainty to businesses and trade on both sides.

Businesses will need time and support to adjust in a New Year like no other - whatever the eventual outcome."