Merkel: UK cannot keep EU privileges

Angela Merkel has said that the UK cannot "cherry pick" the terms of Brexit - if a country decides to leave the EU it cannot keep its privileges, the German Chancellor said.

This, Ms Merkel said, would mean that for access to the free market, the EU's basic values must be adhered to.

Ms Merkel cited Norway as an example. While not a member of the EU, Norway has access to the free market because it accepts the free movement of people.

The leader of the Christian Democratic Union party added that she regrets the UK's decision to leave the EU, but that the choice should be respected.

Ms Merkel added that it was up to Britain to decide on how it wants to shape its future with Europe, but that talks between the UK and the EU can only begin once Britain has triggered Article 50.

Speaking to the German Parliament, Ms Merkel added that while talks between the UK and the EU continue, Britain will remain a member with full rights and responsibilities.

The Chancellor also added that Brexit would not weaken the EU.