. @DavidGHFrost writes to @MichelBarnier following the government's decision to publish its draft negotiating texts. The letter is worth the read: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/886168/Letter_to_Michel_Barnier_19.05.20.pdf

1. Understanding the UK's position: Frost is right that publishing the texts will help MS understand the UK's positions (previously, @GOVUK position was that the Commission should not share texts with MS - presumably to avoid leaks).

2. No divide & rule: Frost makes clear UK is not seeking to bypass the Commission and negotiate with MS - simply clarifying the UK's position. This is important and will land well in EU.

3. Precedent: UK demands are based on precedent - on agreements the EU has with other trading partners. From EU's point of view though: in many areas, UK *is* asking for a bit more.. plus, direct competition on its doorstep

4. Surprise: highlights areas where EU has refused to replicate what it has offered to other trading partners (for example, mutual recognition of conformity assessments). Also asks the EU to justify its positions including on fisheries, law enforcement and governance.

5. Level playing field: says UK has included series of provisions to ensure high levels are maintained - and to prevent trade distortions and unfair competitive advantages.

6. Deal can be done: UK's belief that a deal can be reached by the end of the year. END.

[7. Overall, however, I suspect the first part of the letter will land well - the second not so much... focusing on precedent only gets you so far; to generate goodwill (and movement), it wd be good to focus on why UK's proposals might benefit the EU ...].