Reuters reports that Britain said on Monday it was open to a "sensible" compromise on fishing and that there was goodwill on both sides to progress towards a Brexit trade deal as a new round of talks began in London.

"There are still differences, there are still some obstacles to overcome," British Environment Secretary George Eustice told Sky. "But I think there is now some goodwill on both sides to progress things."

After congratulating Joe Biden on his U.S. presidential election win, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Sunday an EU trade deal was "there to be done" and that the broad outlines were clear.

EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier told Reuters he was "very happy to be back in London (for talks) and work continues."