I have a feeling he was simply expressing his personal views but with the knowledge that they might be overheard and reported to test the reaction of all of the parties.

I've said all along that the interim arrangement is likely to become a de facto permanent arrangement.

I think he is the only brain at the table and your first assumption is more likely, queenie. 

He is definitely the only brain at the table.

I was expecting this to be Brexit Cleudo, and that we had to guess the weapon.

I'm guessing Olly Robbins in the bar with a candlestick.

Nah. Olly Robbins in the negotiating room with a spanner. 

Or indeed any one from the massive selection of tools his team brought to the negotiating table.