Estonia set to take over UK's turn at EU's helm

Estonia is set to take over the rotating EU presidency from Britain in the second half of next year after London pulled out to focus on negotiations to leave the bloc.

A spokesman for European Council President Donald Tusk said there was "broad agreement" when EU ambassadors met in Brussels that Estonia's presidency would be brought forward by six months to take the place of the UK.

That means Estonia's presidency will follow Malta's.

Subsequent presidencies will all be brought forward by six months.

The Estonian government confirmed it was ready to take Britain's place if necessary.

"Estonia has declared it will be flexible about the timing of the EU presidency after the British withdrawal," said Tiina Urm, Head of Communication for the EU Presidency at the Estonian Government Office. 

Belgium had earlier been in the frame to take on the presidency after Britain dropped out. The possibility of Malta's term being extended by six months had also been discussed.