Since the Brexit referendum, I have been in disagreement with my friend Boris Johnson over the nature of our future relationship with Brussels, not to mention the crucial economic and regulatory importance of the European market for the United Kingdom.

I view Brexit as a disease curable only by an extension to Article 50 in order to reach agreement on a deal or, failing that, a second referendum.

However, the British government can adopt the negotiating strategy of its choice with the EU but it is in the UK’s best interests to remain a member of the Internal Energy Market. It is common sense and economic interest that should dictate what the negotiators are to agree with EU leaders during the upcoming European Council meeting on 17 and 18 October.

Indeed, a firm position of France and President Macron specifically on Brexit can only help the British Government and the Parliament to take responsibility for its actions in Brexit negotiations. In turn this can only bring more clarity to businesses on both sides of the Channel and provide more certainty to investors in infrastructure projects.