softening

Asked by reporters about whether Canada was softening its approach, Carney argued it has a better tariff deal with the US than many other countries because of the free trade carve-out.

At times, a return to the negotiating table has seemed almost impossible but, with the strike ending, both sides have shown signs of softening.

"The question is more, will it just be a softening of the economy or a bigger slide."

In a notable softening of tone, No 10 said that they want to hold a vote on Tuesday - as is currently planned - and admitted that getting the policy right was not easy.

It is a significant shift, a softening of hard lines previously drawn by both sides.