Britain should stress jobs, prosperity in Brexit talks: Philip Hammond

British finance minister Philip Hammond said on Friday that Britain should prioritize jobs and prosperity in talks due to start next week on its departure from the European Union.

"As we enter negotiations next week we will do so in a spirit of sincere cooperation taking a pragmatic approach to trying to find a solution that works both for the UK and for the European Union 27," Hammond told reporters before a meeting of the 28 EU finance ministers in Luxembourg.

The chancellor of the exchequer was asked whether he favored a softer version of Brexit - such as British membership of the EU single market or of a customs union.

Hammond said Britain's position had been set out in a speech made by Prime Minister Theresa May in January and her Article 50 exit letter sent in March. May has said Britain will leave both the single market and the customs union.

"My clear view, and I believe the view of the majority of people in Britain, is that we should prioritize protecting jobs, protecting economic growth, protecting prosperity as we enter those negotiations and take them forward," he said.

(REUTERS)