As one deadline passes and another is created, the negotiations over Brexit resemble an interminable political penalty shoot out, with neither side yielding in a never-ending tussle.

One of the problems is that any deal has to give both sides something they can sell to people back home and in a way that preserves their integrity and cannot be interpreted as any sort of climb down.

While the talks go on and on, it has been difficult for politicians to explain why it has taken so long to reach a point where an agreement will either be reached or not. Important though consensus is, it is the uncertainty and lack of clarity that has proved most frustrating.

So, what is at stake?

The central issue is the nature of any trade deals that come about after the UK's departure. Leave with no-deal and the government says it would be positioned to develop unilateral deals with countries outside the EU. Others say that will be the worst of all worlds.

One key sticking point has been the argument over the so-called level playing field to allow fair competition between the UK and the 27-nation bloc. It is controversial as it could involve the UK having to follow some EU rules even after it has left.

Equally contentious is the prospect of the UK following World Trade organisation rules. These would come into play under a no-deal and the ending of free trade between the EU and UK in January.

Goods imported and exported to and from the EU and other countries the UK has no trade deal with, would be subject to tariffs and border checks at the border, raising the prospect of price rises for some everyday products.

And although medicines are exempt from any tariffs, there could be delays in the supply chain. And of course there has been the debate about some foodstuffs - notably chlorinated chicken - from other countries not meeting the criteria for safe consumption that are currently in place in the EU.

And if you are planning a holiday next year, be cautious. Flights could be affected and if you are driving to Europe, you might need extra paperwork like a green card or an international driving permit. On the plus side, if you are heading for any country in the EU, you can stay up to 90 days without needing a visa.

And there is bad news for those who take their pets abroad with them as “ pet passports” will no longer be valid.

On the always controversial issue of fishing rights, which is almost totemic for Brexiteers, a no-deal would enable the UK to stop EU access to our fishing waters and have full control over its fishing quotas.

But fish exports from here to the EU would be subject to tariffs.

So while valid questions have been raised about the length of time it has taken to get to a position where an outcome is finally expected, it is not hard to understand the complexity.

Unless of course talks this weekend and are extended and the two sides go into extra time.

What could a no-deal mean for Kent?

How is Brexit going to affect Kent? For all the latest news, views and analysis visit our dedicated page here.