UK, Canada Blame Each Other as Trade-Deal Talks Break Down (2)

The UK paused talks to strike a free-trade deal with Canada, with each side accusing the other of obstructing progress.

The two countries have been negotiating for almost two years on replacing an interim deal put in place following Britain’s departure from the European Union. The breakdown in talks effectively leaves the UK at risk of being in a worse position than it was as a member of the bloc when it comes to Canada trade.

A major sticking point was on agriculture. The UK was pushing to extend a temporary arrangement — which expired Dec. 31 — allowing exports ...