The European Union on Thursday urged member countries and businesses to "step up preparations" in case EU-British negotiations fail to produce a deal for Britain's exit from the bloc. 

 

"Today's text calls on member states and private parties to step up preparations" for all outcomes by a March 30 deadline, the European Commission said.

 

"There is still no certainty that there will be a ratified withdrawal agreement in place on that date," it said.