Britain on Friday said Brexit trade talks were effectively at an end unless the European Union shifted its position.

"As far as we're concerned, the trade talks are over. The EU have effectively ended them and only if the EU fundamentally shifts its position will it be worth talking," Prime Minister Boris Johnson's official spokesman told reporters.

EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier has offered to come to London next week to continue talks, even as both sides remain deadlocked on key areas such as fishing and competition rules.

Johnson earlier accused Brussels of failing to negotiate seriously and, although leaving the door open, indicated he would slam it shut if there was no movement from the EU.

His spokesman said the ball was now in the EU's court.

"It's over to the EU now. It can either fundamentally change position or we will leave on Australian terms, under which we will prosper," he added.

"There is only any point in Michel Barnier coming to London next week if he's prepared to discuss all of the issues on the basis of legal texts in an accelerated way without the UK being required to make all the moves...

"If not, there is no point coming."

AFP