Theresa May has slapped down suggestions that Brexit negotiations will be carried out in French.

Chief negotiator Michel Barnier reportedly wants the divorce talks to be held in his mother tongue.

But the Prime Minister told reporters that the exit process will be carried out in the best way to get the "right deal" for the UK.

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Downing Street sources made clear that the talks will not be held in French.

Mrs May said: "We will conduct the negotiations in the way that is going to make sure that we get the right deal for the United Kingdom."

The Prime Minister said it was up to the 27 other countries in the EU "how they are going to conduct" their negotiations.

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"But we will continue to play our role as I have done today. I can assure you I haven't been backwards in coming forwards on issues," she said.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said there was no official language for the Brexit talks and "everybody is allowed to speak their own language".