F1 2017 rules debate rolls on to last chance meeting in February

Technical representatives from all 11 F1 teams met with FIA technical director Charlie Whiting at Heathrow to again review several areas under consideration.

One insider suggested ahead of the meeting "things are going to get messier before they get better".

Another source has now revealed that while progress was made to some degree, "a few outstanding issues remain" that need resolving.

The meeting in February represents another opportunity for those involved to find solutions to the problems.

It is understood those talks take place shortly before further meetings of the Strategy Group and F1 Commission in Geneva on February 23.

It represents the last chance for the technical heads to agree on a way forward ahead of a March 1 deadline when the rules are supposed to be in place.

Beyond that date any formulation of the regulations, or changes required to those already in place, require unanimous agreement.

Top of Friday's agenda was the planned increase in downforce, along with a look at cockpit protection and the FIA's preference for the 'halo' design.

Other points mulled over included the plans from 2018 for manufacturers to supply customers with engines for just €12million, a significant cut from the current asking prices of €20-25million.

Also from that year each car will also only be allowed to use three gearboxes per season, while for '17 potential weight saving gains may be required given the increase in the width of tyres and wheels.