Brexit trade and security deal with EU within 'touching distance', says No 10

Boris Johnson briefs cabinet on breakthrough and is expected to address nation early on Christmas Eve

A post-Brexit trade and security treaty with the European Union is within touching distance", Downing Street said on Wednesday night as Boris Johnson prepared to unveil his hard-fought Christmas Eve deal.

The prime minister is expected to announce the terms of the agreement following a final call with the European commission president Ursula von der Leyen - but the two sides battled deep into the night to gain a last-minute advantage.