LSE finds one-third decline in trading relationships under Boris Johnson’s deal – which has hit small firms hardest. / Brexit red tape means the UK has “stopped selling” many products to smaller EU countries, according to alarming new evidence of the impact on trade.

Business leaders said improved trade between north and south would "inevitably put pressure on the Union".

Jacob Rees-Mogg announced checks on imports to the UK, that were finally set to enter force in July, will now not happen as planned and instead be 'reviewed' before being introduced in a different form.

Current charges, which have remained unchanged since the UK severed ties with the EU, are roughly 0.5 per cent.

British firms face the introduction of much-delayed post-Brexit border control checks from 1 January which will affect businesses importing $314 billion of goods a year from the European Union.