| UPDATED: 15:12, Tue, Mar 9, 2021 Link copied Brexit: Michel Barnier 'played a blinder' claims Mummery Sign up to receive our rundown of the day's top stories direct to your inbox SUBSCRIBE Invalid email When you subscribe we will use the information you provide to send you these newsletters. Sometimes they'll include recommendations for other related newsletters or services we offer. Our Privacy Notice explains more about how we use your data, and your rights. You can unsubscribe at any time. The EU's former chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier has sparked claims of a presidential bid in France’s 2022 elections after he announced the formation of a new faction among the right-wing Les Républicains: “Patriot and European". He said in February: “I am available to work with all those who want it under the banner of ‘Patriot and European’, so as not to leave this theme to others." A possible bid by Mr Barnier is being closely watched by French President Emmanuel Macron’s camp, as he would eat at the pro-European, centre-right electorate.