Conservative MEPs' leader Ashley Fox has urged the EU to respond positively to Prime Minister Theresa May's landmark speech in Florence today.
He said: "Brussels has been asking for concrete proposals and here they are.
"Theresa May's plan for a time limited transitional period, during which our budget contributions would continue, provides certainty for business, stability for the economy and addresses the concerns of our European partners. The speech also contains a promise that the UK will honour its financial commitments and important new legal guarantees for EU citizens in the UK and British citizens in the EU.
"The Prime Minister has laid out the basis of a new and fruitful relationship between Britain and the EU and I hope the EU now responds by agreeing to move onto the next substantive phase of negotiations. I trust European leaders will accept the invitation to mould a unique new relationship with Britain that secures long term prosperity and security for us all.
"It is time we got down to business and Conservative MEPs will be conveying that message very strongly in Brussels.
"Today the Prime Minister has delivered a blueprint for our country's future. I hope Florence proves to be the cradle of a renaissance for both Britain and the EU."