Aukus row: EU officials demand apology from Australia over France’s treatment before trade talks

Australian prime minister Scott Morrison says he has had no opportunity' for talks with French president Emmanuel Macron

European Union officials are demanding answers - and an apology from Australia - over its treatment of France as the fallout from the Aukus announcement threatens to delay a key trade deal.

Australia's hopes of entering into a free-trade agreement with the European Union hit rough waters with the EU Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, demanding Australia explain its conduct in defence of EU member state France.