Will the UK trigger article 16 – and what will happen if it does?

How likely is it that Britain will trigger the Northern Ireland protocol clause, and could it lead to a trade war?

Fears are growing that the UK will trigger article 16 of the Northern Ireland protocol, potentially rupturing the already strained relations with the EU. If talks with the EU collapse, it is expected just after Cop26 in seven days' time.

On Wednesday Ireland's prime minister heightened concerns that this was almost a racing certainty after his bluntest warning yet to the UK that such a move would be reckless", irresponsible" and have far-reaching consequences".