Greg Hands said he did not believe the Republic of Ireland would stop exit talks progressing to round two despite border concerns.

In an interview with German news website RP Online he said “all sides” would benefit from successful trade talks. 

Mr Hands, who is also Mrs May’s London minister, rejected concerns Ireland could make good on its threat to veto talks. 

He said: “I can not imagine that such a move will happen. All sides - the Irish government, my government and the European Commission - are committed to the Friday agreement that has pacified Northern Ireland's conflict. 

“And in it is clearly stated that there should never again be a border between north and south. So now it's just about how we implement that. But where there is so much good will there is a way.”

When asked how a land border between the EU and UK could possibly exist if Britain leaves the single market and customs union, Mr Hands suggested technological advantages. 

He said: “We have made proposals that aim at the use of technological solutions. So there could be a form of electronic border and customs control that avoids obstacles to the movement of persons and goods. 

“But it is clear that we will leave the customs union.”

READ MORE: What does the Irish border mean for Brexit?

And he also used the interview to send a warning to Donald Trump over the Britain First videos he retweeted easier this week. 

While he refused to be drawn on whether he believed Mr Trump’s proposed state visit should be cancelled - although he did condemn the president’s actions.

He said: “I don't know the exact plans. But that Donald Trump has just spread racist videos of a British right-wing extremist via Twitter has not been received very well in London. The Prime Minister has also publicly criticised that. 

“But whether with or without a Trump visit, I am sure that our trade relations with the US as a whole will develop very well.”