skynewspolitics--2020-09-14--Breaching international law over Brexit 'will risk public confidence in COVID rules', PM warned

The government risks undermining confidence among the public by introducing new coronavirus rules at the same time as pushing ahead with plans to breach international law , a public health expert has told Sky News .
Dr Gabriel Scally , a visiting professor of public health at the University of Bristol , compared the introduction of the `` rule of six '' this week and the government 's intent to possibly override the UK 's Brexit withdrawal deal .
Social gatherings of more than six people are now illegal in England .
People face fines of up to £3,200 if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measure , which aims to curb an increase in COVID-19 cases .
Meanwhile , the government is battling a storm of criticism at Westminster and in European capitals after admitting new Brexit legislation it plans to pass could represent a breach of international law .
Dr Scally , also a member of the independent SAGE group of scientists who work together to provide independent scientific advice on COVID-19 , told Sky News that people losing confidence in the government over the pandemic was a `` big , big , big risk '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't work , if they see the government trying , for example , to say that people should go back to offices , need to repopulate the high streets and spend their money - but at the same time viral numbers are going up and they 're not dealing with it effectively - that ruins confidence , '' he said .
Drawing a comparison between Monday 's introduction of the `` rule of six '' and the latest Brexit row , Dr Scally added : `` I think what the government is proposing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID marshals and fines and so on , well the other big story you 've been covering today is about the government seeking to break a law .
`` That contradiction is manifest to people and I think the government is in danger of undermining confidence .
`` It 's not the individuals - it 's the government that needs to get its act together . ''
Dr Scally said the `` rule of six '' was n't `` going to put the virus back in the can '' but `` might keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
`` I do n't think it 's the full answer and I 'm kind of surprised the government has n't gone for some alternatives like going back to the two-metre rule , which seemed to me to be eminently sensible , '' he added .
`` Also , it really should do something about sorting out the lamentable NHS test and trace system . ''
: : Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple Podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Former Labour leader Ed Miliband , now the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ criticised the government 's admission it could break international law with regards to Brexit while introducing new COVID-19 restrictions .
`` Think about the day we 're on today , the rule of six , '' he told Sky News .
`` [ Home Secretary ] Priti Patel is writing in the newspapers saying it 's very important people observe these rules to the letter and the spirit .
`` It is , Priti 's right about that .
But how can we , on the one hand , be saying 'you 've @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which we all say - rightly - as legislators .
`` Then the government comes along and says 'it 's okay for us to break the law because it 's in a specific and limited way ' .
`` We ca n't be having that . ''
Government ministers have insisted its UK Internal Market Bill is `` critical '' to ensuring the unfettered access for goods from Northern Ireland to the rest of the UK , as well as to protect the Good Friday Agreement .
Home Office minister Kit Malthouse told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an `` insurance policy '' in case the UK is left in a position after the Brexit transition period where food exports from Great Britain to Northern Ireland `` become illegal '' .

The government risks undermining confidence among the public by introducing new coronavirus rules at the same time as pushing ahead with plans to breach international law, a public health expert has told Sky News.
Dr Gabriel Scally, a visiting professor of public health at the University of Bristol, compared the introduction of the "rule of six" this week and the government's intent to possibly override the UK's Brexit withdrawal deal.
Social gatherings of more than six people are now illegal in England. People face fines of up to £3,200 if they do not abide by the new measure, which aims to curb an increase in COVID-19 cases.
Meanwhile, the government is battling a storm of criticism at Westminster and in European capitals after admitting new Brexit legislation it plans to pass could represent a breach of international law.
Dr Scally, also a member of the independent SAGE group of scientists who work together to provide independent scientific advice on COVID-19, told Sky News that people losing confidence in the government over the pandemic was a "big, big, big risk".
"If the test and trace doesn't work, if they see the government trying, for example, to say that people should go back to offices, need to repopulate the high streets and spend their money - but at the same time viral numbers are going up and they're not dealing with it effectively - that ruins confidence," he said.
Drawing a comparison between Monday's introduction of the "rule of six" and the latest Brexit row, Dr Scally added: "I think what the government is proposing in terms of enforcing this legally with COVID marshals and fines and so on, well the other big story you've been covering today is about the government seeking to break a law.
"That contradiction is manifest to people and I think the government is in danger of undermining confidence.
"It's not the individuals - it's the government that needs to get its act together."
Advertisement
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:47 Breaking treaty should be 'absolute final resort'
Dr Scally said the "rule of six" wasn't "going to put the virus back in the can" but "might keep it under a little bit of control".
"I don't think it's the full answer and I'm kind of surprised the government hasn't gone for some alternatives like going back to the two-metre rule, which seemed to me to be eminently sensible," he added.
"Also, it really should do something about sorting out the lamentable NHS test and trace system."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple Podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Former Labour leader Ed Miliband, now the party's shadow business secretary, also criticised the government's admission it could break international law with regards to Brexit while introducing new COVID-19 restrictions.
"Think about the day we're on today, the rule of six," he told Sky News.
"[Home Secretary] Priti Patel is writing in the newspapers saying it's very important people observe these rules to the letter and the spirit.
"It is, Priti's right about that. But how can we, on the one hand, be saying 'you've got to obey the law', which we all say - rightly - as legislators.
"Then the government comes along and says 'it's okay for us to break the law because it's in a specific and limited way'.
"We can't be having that."
Government ministers have insisted its UK Internal Market Bill is "critical" to ensuring the unfettered access for goods from Northern Ireland to the rest of the UK, as well as to protect the Good Friday Agreement.
Home Office minister Kit Malthouse told Sky News the legislation is needed as an "insurance policy" in case the UK is left in a position after the Brexit transition period where food exports from Great Britain to Northern Ireland "become illegal".


skynewspolitics--2020-09-14--Report your neighbours to police if you see them meeting with too many people, minister says

People in England who see their neighbours flouting the new `` rule of six '' are being encouraged to contact police by the government .
Social gatherings of more than six people are now illegal in England from today .
People face fines of up to £3,200 if they do not abide by the new measure , which aims to curb an increase in COVID-19 cases .
A total of 3,330 confirmed coronavirus cases were recorded in the UK on Sunday - the first time since May that cases have been above 3,000 on three consecutive days .
As the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minister Kit Malthouse said concerned neighbours should ring the non-emergency police phone number to report violations of the restriction .
`` We are in discussions about what reporting mechanisms there might be but there is obviously the non-emergency number that people can ring and report issues they wish to , '' he told the BBC Radio 4 's Today programme .
`` Certainly during the initial stage of lockdown , we did see a surge in those reports coming through to the police .
`` If people are concerned , if they do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is open to them . ''
: : Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Pressed on whether that would involve reporting a gathering of seven or more in a neighbour 's garden , Mr Malthouse said : `` It is open to neighbours to do exactly that through the non-emergency number and if they are concerned and they do see that kind of thing , then absolutely they should think about it . ''
Asked to clarify whether residents should be concerned about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and report them to the police , he replied : `` Yes . ''
Regulations enabling the enforcement of the rule were published late on Sunday night , around 30 minutes before they came into effect .
Home Secretary Priti Patel said the new rule was `` easier to understand and easier for the police to enforce '' .
Writing in The Sun newspaper , Ms Patel said the police `` will be able to disperse gatherings of more than six people and fine individuals involved £100 , doubling up to a maximum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` They will continue to hand down £10,000 fines for people hosting raves or other large unlawful events , '' she added .
`` I know that , as part of our national effort , the law-abiding majority will stick to these new rules .
`` But there will be a small minority who do not and the police have the necessary powers to take action against them .
`` This disease is deadly and that is why it is right that the police enforce where people break the rules . ''
Downing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ imposing fines on people who break the `` rule of six '' restrictions .
The Prime Minister 's official spokesman said : `` What you would expect to happen is for the police to be out today encouraging people to follow the new rules but in the coming days , if we see people continuing to flout the new rules , it is right that people could face a fine .
`` The regulations are in place to help to stop the spread of the virus , to protect the NHS and to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people should report neighbours who breach coronavirus rules , the spokesman said : `` What we want people to be focused on is following the new rules and ensuring that they , themselves , help again as they have in the past to slow the spread of the virus .
`` What you have seen in recent weeks is some egregious flouting of the rules , such as the holding of large illegal parties , and members of the public have been contacting the police about those because they have been concerned about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Have you recently had a COVID-19 test or tried to get one ?
Get in touch with Sky News to let us know about your experience - good or bad .

People in England who see their neighbours flouting the new "rule of six" are being encouraged to contact police by the government.
Social gatherings of more than six people are now illegal in England from today.
People face fines of up to £3,200 if they do not abide by the new measure, which aims to curb an increase in COVID-19 cases.
A total of 3,330 confirmed coronavirus cases were recorded in the UK on Sunday - the first time since May that cases have been above 3,000 on three consecutive days.
As the new rule came into force, policing minister Kit Malthouse said concerned neighbours should ring the non-emergency police phone number to report violations of the restriction.
"We are in discussions about what reporting mechanisms there might be but there is obviously the non-emergency number that people can ring and report issues they wish to," he told the BBC Radio 4's Today programme.
"Certainly during the initial stage of lockdown, we did see a surge in those reports coming through to the police.
"If people are concerned, if they do think there is contravention then that option is open to them."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Advertisement
Pressed on whether that would involve reporting a gathering of seven or more in a neighbour's garden, Mr Malthouse said: "It is open to neighbours to do exactly that through the non-emergency number and if they are concerned and they do see that kind of thing, then absolutely they should think about it."
Asked to clarify whether residents should be concerned about local breaches of law in neighbouring properties and report them to the police, he replied: "Yes."
Regulations enabling the enforcement of the rule were published late on Sunday night, around 30 minutes before they came into effect.
Home Secretary Priti Patel said the new rule was "easier to understand and easier for the police to enforce".
Writing in The Sun newspaper, Ms Patel said the police "will be able to disperse gatherings of more than six people and fine individuals involved £100, doubling up to a maximum of £3,200 for repeat offenders".
"They will continue to hand down £10,000 fines for people hosting raves or other large unlawful events," she added.
"I know that, as part of our national effort, the law-abiding majority will stick to these new rules.
"But there will be a small minority who do not and the police have the necessary powers to take action against them.
"This disease is deadly and that is why it is right that the police enforce where people break the rules."
Downing Street suggested police would not immediately start imposing fines on people who break the "rule of six" restrictions.
The Prime Minister's official spokesman said: "What you would expect to happen is for the police to be out today encouraging people to follow the new rules but in the coming days, if we see people continuing to flout the new rules, it is right that people could face a fine.
"The regulations are in place to help to stop the spread of the virus, to protect the NHS and to ultimately save lives."
Asked whether people should report neighbours who breach coronavirus rules, the spokesman said: "What we want people to be focused on is following the new rules and ensuring that they, themselves, help again as they have in the past to slow the spread of the virus.
"What you have seen in recent weeks is some egregious flouting of the rules, such as the holding of large illegal parties, and members of the public have been contacting the police about those because they have been concerned about the risk to public health."
Have you recently had a COVID-19 test or tried to get one? Get in touch with Sky News to let us know about your experience - good or bad.
:: WhatsApp - 07583 000853.
:: Email - news@sky.com
:: 'Your Report' on Sky News apps


skynewspolitics--2020-09-15--Hancock admits 'challenges' with COVID-19 testing after 'sharp rise' in demand

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has admitted there are `` challenges '' with the coronavirus testing system following a `` sharp rise '' in demand .
Speaking in the House of Commons on Tuesday , Mr Hancock said the government was `` working hard '' to fix issues with COVID-19 testing availability but admitted it could take a `` matter of weeks '' .
He revealed tests were now having to be prioritised and also hinted at a possible future further rationing of tests .
`` The whole House knows there are operational challenges and we 're working hard to fix @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We 've seen a sharp rise in people coming forward for a test , including those who are not eligible . ''
The government has come under growing pressure from NHS hospital trusts , public health officials and MPs over a lack of availability of coronavirus tests in some areas .
Mr Hancock said he would not rule out a further prioritisation of testing in order to ensure hospitals and care homes can get the tests they need .
Currently anyone who displays coronavirus symptoms can get an NHS test , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked to get a test by a hospital or local council .
`` Throughout this pandemic we have prioritised testing according to need , '' the health secretary told MPs .
`` Over the summer , when demand was low , we were able to meet all requirements for testing whether priorities or not .
`` But , as demand has risen , so we 're having to prioritise once again .
I do not shirk from decisions about prioritisation .
`` They 're not always comfortable , but they 're important .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been , acute clinical care .
`` The next priority is social care , where we 're now sending over 100,000 tests a day because we have all seen the risks this virus poses in care homes .
`` We 'll set out in full an updated prioritisation and I do not rule out further steps to make sure our tests are used according to those priorities .
`` It is a choice that we must make . ''
A number of MPs have complained their constituents are facing difficulties securing a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to travel to distant parts of the UK to get a test .
But Mr Hancock insisted the average distance travelled to a test site is now 5.8 miles .
Labour 's shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth asked why Mr Hancock did not use the summer to `` significantly expand '' laboratory capacity for testing , ahead of the return of pupils to schools and people to workplaces .
`` When schools reopen and people return to workplaces and social distancing becomes harder infections rise , '' he told Mr Hancock .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inevitable . ''
Mr Hancock replied : `` I do n't deny that it is an enormous challenge and when you have a free service it 's inevitable that demand rises .
`` The challenge is to make sure that we prioritise the tests we have as a nation to those who most need it . ''
Jeremy Hunt , the Conservative chair of the House of Commons health committee and Mr Hancock 's predecessor as health secretary , described how some of his constituents in Surrey had been sent to Bristol or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Hancock responded : `` I think that we will be able to solve this problem in a matter of weeks . ''
He added : `` We are managing to deliver record capacity , but as he well knows demand is also high and the response to that is to make sure we have prioritisation so the people who most need it can get the tests that they need . ''
Earlier , Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon revealed she had spoken to Mr Hancock and Baroness Harding , the head of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the issues and to `` seek assurances that Scotland will continue to get fair access to the UK-wide laboratory capacity '' .
`` I have a concern about the capacity constraints right now with the UK-wide system and for Scotland in recent days this has not been an issue of access to testing slots at regional testing centres or mobile testing units , '' Ms Sturgeon said .
`` But instead it has been one of access to sufficient 'Lighthouse ' laboratory processing and it is this that has led to a backlog @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for tests than we we want to be the case .
`` As this is a UK-wide system we are not able to resolve this on our own and the issues are impacted by demand elsewhere in the UK . ''
Downing Street revealed testing was discussed at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Tuesday morning .
A Number 10 spokesman said the government was `` working to increase capacity '' , including with a new laboratory facility in Leicestershire .
Following the cabinet meeting Jacob Rees-Mogg , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hailed the testing programme as a `` government success '' .
`` I think it 's going as well as could possible be expected considering the demand , '' he said .

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has admitted there are "challenges" with the coronavirus testing system following a "sharp rise" in demand.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Hancock said the government was "working hard" to fix issues with COVID-19 testing availability but admitted it could take a "matter of weeks".
He revealed tests were now having to be prioritised and also hinted at a possible future further rationing of tests.
Live coronavirus updates from UK and around world
Image: The government has come under pressure over the availability of COVID-19 tests
"The whole House knows there are operational challenges and we're working hard to fix them," the health secretary said.
"We've seen a sharp rise in people coming forward for a test, including those who are not eligible."
It came as NHS England announced a further 14 people in England have died with coronavirus in hospitals, bringing the total to 29,676.
The government has come under growing pressure from NHS hospital trusts, public health officials and MPs over a lack of availability of coronavirus tests in some areas.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:27 COVID testing issue? One of my children had one last week
Mr Hancock said he would not rule out a further prioritisation of testing in order to ensure hospitals and care homes can get the tests they need.
Advertisement
Currently anyone who displays coronavirus symptoms can get an NHS test, as well as those who have been asked to get a test by a hospital or local council.
"Throughout this pandemic we have prioritised testing according to need," the health secretary told MPs.
"Over the summer, when demand was low, we were able to meet all requirements for testing whether priorities or not.
"But, as demand has risen, so we're having to prioritise once again. I do not shirk from decisions about prioritisation.
"They're not always comfortable, but they're important. The top priority is, and always has been, acute clinical care.
"The next priority is social care, where we're now sending over 100,000 tests a day because we have all seen the risks this virus poses in care homes.
"We'll set out in full an updated prioritisation and I do not rule out further steps to make sure our tests are used according to those priorities.
"It is a choice that we must make."
A number of MPs have complained their constituents are facing difficulties securing a coronavirus test - with some being told to travel to distant parts of the UK to get a test.
But Mr Hancock insisted the average distance travelled to a test site is now 5.8 miles.
Labour's shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth asked why Mr Hancock did not use the summer to "significantly expand" laboratory capacity for testing, ahead of the return of pupils to schools and people to workplaces.
"When schools reopen and people return to workplaces and social distancing becomes harder infections rise," he told Mr Hancock.
"So extra demand on the system was inevitable."
Mr Hancock replied: "I don't deny that it is an enormous challenge and when you have a free service it's inevitable that demand rises.
"The challenge is to make sure that we prioritise the tests we have as a nation to those who most need it."
Jeremy Hunt, the Conservative chair of the House of Commons health committee and Mr Hancock's predecessor as health secretary, described how some of his constituents in Surrey had been sent to Bristol or the Isle of Wight for tests.
Mr Hancock responded: "I think that we will be able to solve this problem in a matter of weeks."
He added: "We are managing to deliver record capacity, but as he well knows demand is also high and the response to that is to make sure we have prioritisation so the people who most need it can get the tests that they need."
Earlier, Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon revealed she had spoken to Mr Hancock and Baroness Harding, the head of the UK's testing programme, about the issues and to "seek assurances that Scotland will continue to get fair access to the UK-wide laboratory capacity".
"I have a concern about the capacity constraints right now with the UK-wide system and for Scotland in recent days this has not been an issue of access to testing slots at regional testing centres or mobile testing units," Ms Sturgeon said.
"But instead it has been one of access to sufficient 'Lighthouse' laboratory processing and it is this that has led to a backlog in the system and longer turnaround times for tests than we we want to be the case.
"As this is a UK-wide system we are not able to resolve this on our own and the issues are impacted by demand elsewhere in the UK."
Downing Street revealed testing was discussed at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Tuesday morning.
A Number 10 spokesman said the government was "working to increase capacity", including with a new laboratory facility in Leicestershire.
The spokesman also denied that coronavirus tests are not available in the worst-hit parts of the country.
"We would say that it is wrong to say that testing is not available in these areas," they said.
"Our capacity continues to be targeted to where it is most needed which is why booking slots and home testing kits are made available daily for people with symptoms.
"Mobile testing units continue to be deployed to those areas with local outbreaks and high rates of transmission in the community."
Following the cabinet meeting Jacob Rees-Mogg, the Leader of the House of Commons, hailed the testing programme as a "government success".
"I think it's going as well as could possibly be expected considering the demand," he said.


skynewspolitics--2020-09-15--'Sexual predator': Former Tory MP jailed for two years over three sex assaults

Former Conservative MP Charlie Elphicke has been sentenced to two years in prison for three sexual assaults on two younger women .
The judge , Mrs Justice Whipple , described the 49-year-old as a `` sexual predator '' who used his `` success and respectability as a cover '' .
`` You made your victims come to court , '' she said .
`` They told the truth , and you told a pack of lies - not only to the jury , but your wife , the whips and the police . ''
Elphicke showed no emotion as he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ through his spokesman that he is seeking to overturn the conviction .
He declared himself a `` naughty Tory '' as he chased his first victim around his central London family home in summer 2007 , moments after groping her while they shared a bottle of wine .
He also groped a second woman , a parliamentary worker in her early 20s with whom he was `` besotted '' , twice in a month in 2016 .
During his trial , the court heard Elphicke , a father of two and qualified lawyer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and his wife about what happened .
The disgraced politician was MP for Dover from 2010 until last year 's general election , at which he was succeeded in the Kent constituency by his wife Natalie .
After her husband was convicted in July , Mrs Elphicke announced the end of her 25-year marriage on Twitter as she sat in a taxi leaving the court .
She wrote that the decision had brought `` profound sorrow '' .
In the wake of the verdict , Mrs Elphicke said : `` I fully support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ convictions and today 's excessive sentence . ''
She added : `` There is no doubt that Charlie behaved badly .
However , everyone , Charlie included , has the right to a fair trial , and I do n't believe that he has had one . ''
Reading a statement from the first victim , prosecutor Eloise Marshall QC , said the effect of Elphicke 's actions `` had a lasting impact '' .
She said she now had a `` significantly increased sense of caution '' when coming into contact with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her impact statement , parts of which were read out in court , that Elphicke `` stole a large part of my self-worth and self-esteem '' .
`` My inner scars will always be there , '' she said .
Defending Elphicke , Ian Winter QC , had urged the judge not to jail him and said he was now the primary carer for his teenage son .
`` Shortly , Mr Elphicke 's descent into total disgrace will be complete , '' he told the court .
`` He has lost his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is estranged from him as a direct result of his conviction , and his son , aged 13 , has received sustained and quite vicious bullying at his school . ''
Mr Winter added : `` I can assure you on his behalf that it will never happen again .
`` When one steps back and looks at the man you are sentencing today , you do have somebody who is essentially a good man . ''
He said 34 character witnesses had come forward to support Elphicke , including `` serving members @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disclose their names .
Elphicke became a government whip when David Cameron was prime minister in 2015 , but he returned to the back benches of the House of Commons when Theresa May came to power the following year .
He had the party whip suspended in 2017 when allegations of sexual assault first emerged , but it was controversially reinstated a year later for a crucial confidence vote in then-prime minister Mrs May .
The whip was withdrawn again the following summer when the Crown Prosecution Service announced its decision to charge @ @

Former Conservative MP Charlie Elphicke has been sentenced to two years in prison for three sexual assaults on two younger women.
The judge, Mrs Justice Whipple, described the 49-year-old as a "sexual predator" who used his "success and respectability as a cover".
"You made your victims come to court," she said.
"They told the truth, and you told a pack of lies - not only to the jury, but your wife, the whips and the police."
Elphicke showed no emotion as he was sentenced - and has since confirmed through his spokesman that he is seeking to overturn the conviction.
He declared himself a "naughty Tory" as he chased his first victim around his central London family home in summer 2007, moments after groping her while they shared a bottle of wine.
Image: Elphicke was MP for Dover from 2010 until last year's general election
He also groped a second woman, a parliamentary worker in her early 20s with whom he was "besotted", twice in a month in 2016.
Sentencing Elphicke at London's Southwark Crown Court, the judge said to him: "You treated what you did as a joke, saying of yourself that you were 'naughty' in an attempt to trivialise your actions.
"You suggested to each woman that this was something they wanted, that they had encouraged, that they had enjoyed. That was not true. They had not encouraged you or led you on. Your behaviour was also an abuse of power."
Advertisement
During his trial, the court heard Elphicke, a father of two and qualified lawyer, lied to police, senior colleagues and his wife about what happened.
The disgraced politician was MP for Dover from 2010 until last year's general election, at which he was succeeded in the Kent constituency by his wife Natalie.
After her husband was convicted in July, Mrs Elphicke announced the end of her 25-year marriage on Twitter as she sat in a taxi leaving the court.
She wrote that the decision had brought "profound sorrow".
In the wake of the verdict, Mrs Elphicke said: "I fully support Charlie in his appeal against both his convictions and today's excessive sentence."
She added: "There is no doubt that Charlie behaved badly. However, everyone, Charlie included, has the right to a fair trial, and I don't believe that he has had one."
Reading a statement from the first victim, prosecutor Eloise Marshall QC, said the effect of Elphicke's actions "had a lasting impact".
She said she now had a "significantly increased sense of caution" when coming into contact with men.
Image: Natalie Elphicke announced the end of her 25-year marriage shortly after her husband's conviction
The second victim said in her impact statement, parts of which were read out in court, that Elphicke "stole a large part of my self-worth and self-esteem".
"My inner scars will always be there," she said.
Defending Elphicke, Ian Winter QC, had urged the judge not to jail him and said he was now the primary carer for his teenage son.
"Shortly, Mr Elphicke's descent into total disgrace will be complete," he told the court.
"He has lost his wife, his daughter of 20 years is estranged from him as a direct result of his conviction, and his son, aged 13, has received sustained and quite vicious bullying at his school."
Mr Winter added: "I can assure you on his behalf that it will never happen again.
"When one steps back and looks at the man you are sentencing today, you do have somebody who is essentially a good man."
He said 34 character witnesses had come forward to support Elphicke, including "serving members of parliament", but did not disclose their names.
Elphicke became a government whip when David Cameron was prime minister in 2015, but he returned to the back benches of the House of Commons when Theresa May came to power the following year.
He had the party whip suspended in 2017 when allegations of sexual assault first emerged, but it was controversially reinstated a year later for a crucial confidence vote in then-prime minister Mrs May.
The whip was withdrawn again the following summer when the Crown Prosecution Service announced its decision to charge Elphicke.


skynewspolitics--2020-09-15--I would report neighbours to police for breaking COVID-19 rules - Patel

Home Secretary Priti Patel has told Sky News she would call the police if her neighbours were hosting a party that broke coronavirus restrictions .
Under the new `` rule of six '' , which came into force on Monday , social gatherings of more than six people are now illegal in England .
People face fines of up to £3,200 if they do not abide by the new measure , which aims to curb an increase in COVID-19 cases .
Live coronavirus updates from UK and around world Asked what she would do if she saw her neighbours breaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Kay Burley @ Breakfast show : `` I 'm rarely at home but if I saw something that I thought was inappropriate then , quite frankly , I would call the police . ''
She added : `` It 's not dobbing in neighbours , it 's all about us taking personal responsibility . ''
The home secretary stressed it was a `` personal choice '' for people to report their neighbours if they wanted to do so .
But she added if there was a `` big party taking place '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ call the police '' .
`` Anyone that is effectively defying the rules , they will be helping to spread coronavirus , '' Ms Patel continued .
`` That is not a good thing and obviously we all have a role to play .
`` We 're all taking personal responsibility , we all have to be conscientious to one another . ''
Ms Patel 's comments echo those of her policing minister , Kit Malthouse , who has also encouraged people in England to contact police if they see their neighbours flouting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 3,330 confirmed coronavirus cases were recorded in the UK on Sunday - the first time since May that cases have been above 3,000 on three consecutive days .
On Monday , Downing Street suggested police would not immediately start imposing fines on people who break the `` rule of six '' restrictions .
The prime minister 's official spokesman said : `` What you would expect to happen is for the police to be out today encouraging people to follow the new rules but in the coming days , if we see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it is right that people could face a fine .
`` The regulations are in place to help to stop the spread of the virus , to protect the NHS and to ultimately save lives . ''

Home Secretary Priti Patel has told Sky News she would call the police if her neighbours were hosting a party that broke coronavirus restrictions.
Under the new "rule of six", which came into force on Monday, social gatherings of more than six people are now illegal in England.
People face fines of up to £3,200 if they do not abide by the new measure, which aims to curb an increase in COVID-19 cases.
Live coronavirus updates from UK and around world
Image: Police can issue fines to those who refuse to comply with the 'rule of six'
Asked what she would do if she saw her neighbours breaking the new rule, Ms Patel told Kay Burley: "I'm rarely at home but if I saw something that I thought was inappropriate then, quite frankly, I would call the police."
She added: "It's not dobbing in neighbours, it's all about us taking personal responsibility."
The home secretary stressed it was a "personal choice" for people to report their neighbours if they wanted to do so.
But she added if there was a "big party taking place" then "it would be right to call the police".
"Anyone that is effectively defying the rules, they will be helping to spread coronavirus," Ms Patel continued.
Advertisement
"That is not a good thing and obviously we all have a role to play.
"We're all taking personal responsibility, we all have to be conscientious to one another."
Ms Patel's comments echo those of her policing minister, Kit Malthouse, who has also encouraged people in England to contact police if they see their neighbours flouting the new coronavirus measures.
A total of 3,330 confirmed coronavirus cases were recorded in the UK on Sunday - the first time since May that cases have been above 3,000 on three consecutive days.
On Monday, Downing Street suggested police would not immediately start imposing fines on people who break the "rule of six" restrictions.
The prime minister's official spokesman said: "What you would expect to happen is for the police to be out today encouraging people to follow the new rules but in the coming days, if we see people continuing to flout the new rules, it is right that people could face a fine.
"The regulations are in place to help to stop the spread of the virus, to protect the NHS and to ultimately save lives."


skynewspolitics--2020-09-14--Chancellor urged to fulfil NHS coronavirus funding promise

Chancellor Rishi Sunak is being urged to make good on his promise to ensure the NHS has what it needs to cope with coronavirus as the health service faces the threat of `` triple whammy '' this winter .
The head of the British Medical Association ( BMA ) , Dr Chaand Nagpaul , will point later to a trio of competing demands on the health service of `` the non-COVID backlog , the ongoing risk of a second spike , and winter pressures .
These , he will say , `` make it imperative that the Chancellor Rishi Sunak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gives the NHS 'whatever it needs ' .
`` The citizens of this nation must no longer be punished from a failure to properly resource our health service , '' he will add .
In a speech to doctors and medical students across the UK , Dr Nagpaul is expected to condemn the government 's `` utterly inconsistent and confusing '' messaging throughout the pandemic , and call for `` coherence and adherence '' .
After a week when many people in England were met with an error message when they tried to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ call for a `` fit for purpose test and trace system '' which has `` capacity , agility and accessibility '' .
Remembering health professionals who have died during the outbreak and the disproportionate impact of the virus on black , Asian and minority ethnic ( BAME ) staff , he will say : `` We owe each doctor who has laid down their life our gratitude , and their loved ones our profound sorrow .
`` Never , ever again should doctors and healthcare workers fail to be adequately protected in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2,621 cases of coronavirus were reported in the UK on Monday in the latest daily government figures , taking the total to 371,125 .
The number of deaths increased by nine , bringing the overall count to 41,637 .
In his Budget in March , Mr Sunak said : `` Whatever extra resources our NHS needs to cope with coronavirus it will get - whether it 's millions of pounds or billions of pounds , whatever it needs , whatever it costs , we stand behind our NHS . ''
A government spokeswoman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strides in stopping the spread of coronavirus - this includes delivering 3.3 billion items of PPE to the front line with 31 billion items ordered , NHS Test and Trace testing hundreds of thousands of people every day , and almost 360,000 people contacted who may have been unwittingly spreading the virus .
The prime minister , she added , `` has announced a further £3 billion winter funding for the NHS to relieve winter pressures on A & E and provide additional capacity . ''

Chancellor Rishi Sunak is being urged to make good on his promise to ensure the NHS has what it needs to cope with coronavirus as the health service faces the threat of "triple whammy" this winter.
The head of the British Medical Association (BMA), Dr Chaand Nagpaul, will point later to a trio of competing demands on the health service of "the non-COVID backlog, the ongoing risk of a second spike, and winter pressures.
These, he will say, "make it imperative that the Chancellor Rishi Sunak fulfils the promise of his words and gives the NHS 'whatever it needs'.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:02 Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak made the promise in the Budget in March
"The citizens of this nation must no longer be punished from a failure to properly resource our health service," he will add.
In a speech to doctors and medical students across the UK, Dr Nagpaul is expected to condemn the government's "utterly inconsistent and confusing" messaging throughout the pandemic, and call for "coherence and adherence".
After a week when many people in England were met with an error message when they tried to access coronavirus tests, he will also call for a "fit for purpose test and trace system" which has "capacity, agility and accessibility".
Remembering health professionals who have died during the outbreak and the disproportionate impact of the virus on black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) staff, he will say: "We owe each doctor who has laid down their life our gratitude, and their loved ones our profound sorrow.
"Never, ever again should doctors and healthcare workers fail to be adequately protected in the course of their duty."
Another 2,621 cases of coronavirus were reported in the UK on Monday in the latest daily government figures, taking the total to 371,125.
Advertisement
The number of deaths increased by nine, bringing the overall count to 41,637.
In his Budget in March, Mr Sunak said: "Whatever extra resources our NHS needs to cope with coronavirus it will get - whether it's millions of pounds or billions of pounds, whatever it needs, whatever it costs, we stand behind our NHS."
Image: Dr Chaand Nagpaul will point later to a trio of competing demands on the health service
A government spokeswoman said: "We have made significant strides in stopping the spread of coronavirus - this includes delivering 3.3 billion items of PPE to the front line with 31 billion items ordered, NHS Test and Trace testing hundreds of thousands of people every day, and almost 360,000 people contacted who may have been unwittingly spreading the virus.
The prime minister, she added, "has announced a further £3 billion winter funding for the NHS to relieve winter pressures on A&E and provide additional capacity."


skynewspolitics--2020-09-17--Head of Test and Trace: No one was expecting to see such a big rise in demand

The head of Test and Trace has said she does n't believe `` anybody was expecting to see the really sizeable increase in demand '' for coronavirus tests .
Baroness Dido Harding 's admission came after some residents in COVID-19 hotspots complained they were finding it difficult to get tested .
Reports have poured in of people saying they were told tests were unavailable or had to be done hundreds of miles away from where they live .
Greg Clark , a Tory MP who chairs the Commons Science and Technology Committee , said : `` It is dispiriting to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in circumstances which are entirely predictable - people are going back to school , people are going back to work - and we have n't had the right capacity put in place during the quieter times of June , July and August . ''
He told Baroness Harding when she gave evidence on Thursday : `` Clearly you did n't prepare enough . ''
The head of Test and Trace insisted that it had not been a `` quiet summer '' but admitted : `` Plainly we do n't have enough testing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that key workers are going to be prioritised for coronavirus tests - with teachers `` likely to be top of that list '' so schools can `` remain functioning '' .
She added that about 50 % of tests are being reserved for hospital patients , social care staff and residents , and NHS workers - including GPs and pharmacists .
The Conservative peer partially blamed the big rise in demand on schools reopening , revealing the number of children asking for tests has doubled - and grew at an even higher rate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ old .
And she confirmed the current daily test capacity is 242,000 - though not all of this capacity is being used .
The next target is 500,000 a day by the end of October , but Baroness Harding refused to say if that would be enough .
`` I am certain we will need more as we go beyond the end of October , '' she said .
Baroness Harding also suggested the failure to give everyone their test result in 24 hours was deliberate - to not put too much strain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conscious decision , because of the huge increase in demand , to extend the turnaround times in order to process more tests over the course of the last couple of weeks , '' she revealed .
She also faced questions about her appointment as the head of National Institute for Health Protection - which subsumed Public Health England , Test and Trace and the Joint Biosecurity Centre .
Asked why she was given the top job without applying or going through a competitive process , Baroness Harding defended her suitability .
She said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and explained she is only the interim leader while a full application process is carried out .
She described her role as a complex job with many requirements including services and logistics , for which experience in retail will help .
Baroness Harding was head of telecoms giant TalkTalk when it suffered a huge cyberattack in 2015 with 157,000 customers ' information accessed .
Her admissions about testing problems contrast with Jacob Rees-Mogg , leader of the Commons , who earlier told people to stop their `` endless carping '' about test problems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` phenomenal success '' .
It comes as the head of Ireland 's Health Service Executive , Paul Reid , said senior NHS officials contacted him to ask if Irish labs could be used to turn around UK tests .
He said they were not able to so the request was turned down but the UK Test and Trace system may `` almost collapse '' .
Prof Allyson Pollock , director of the health and society institute at Newcastle University , said of the new restrictions being imposed on large parts of northeast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that if Test and Trace had been working efficiently and effectively we would n't be in this situation .
`` This is a mess entirely of the government 's making and the public unfortunately are having to bear the pain of this .
`` A big part of the problem is politicians blaming the public , who have been absolutely incredible . ''
Former prime minister David Cameron also told LBC on Thursday `` the danger is '' the government is being `` very reactive '' to coronavirus .
He said he and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` all very keen '' to push for mass testing .

The head of Test and Trace has said she doesn't believe "anybody was expecting to see the really sizeable increase in demand" for coronavirus tests.
Baroness Dido Harding's admission came after some residents in COVID-19 hotspots complained they were finding it difficult to get tested.
Reports have poured in of people saying they were told tests were unavailable or had to be done hundreds of miles away from where they live.
Image: The daily coronavirus test capacity is currently 242,817
Greg Clark, a Tory MP who chairs the Commons Science and Technology Committee, said: "It is dispiriting to find that we are now in September, in circumstances which are entirely predictable - people are going back to school, people are going back to work - and we haven't had the right capacity put in place during the quieter times of June, July and August."
He told Baroness Harding when she gave evidence on Thursday: "Clearly you didn't prepare enough."
The head of Test and Trace insisted that it had not been a "quiet summer" but admitted: "Plainly we don't have enough testing capacity."
Baroness Harding also confirmed that key workers are going to be prioritised for coronavirus tests - with teachers "likely to be top of that list" so schools can "remain functioning".
She added that about 50% of tests are being reserved for hospital patients, social care staff and residents, and NHS workers - including GPs and pharmacists.
Image: Test results are taking longer so more can be processed, the peer said
The Conservative peer partially blamed the big rise in demand on schools reopening, revealing the number of children asking for tests has doubled - and grew at an even higher rate among those aged five to nine years old.
Advertisement
And she confirmed the current daily test capacity is 242,000 - though not all of this capacity is being used.
The next target is 500,000 a day by the end of October, but Baroness Harding refused to say if that would be enough.
"I am certain we will need more as we go beyond the end of October," she said.
Image: Test requests from children have doubled now schools have opened
Baroness Harding also suggested the failure to give everyone their test result in 24 hours was deliberate - to not put too much strain on labs.
"We made a conscious decision, because of the huge increase in demand, to extend the turnaround times in order to process more tests over the course of the last couple of weeks," she revealed.
She also faced questions about her appointment as the head of National Institute for Health Protection - which subsumed Public Health England, Test and Trace and the Joint Biosecurity Centre.
Asked why she was given the top job without applying or going through a competitive process, Baroness Harding defended her suitability.
She said ministers wanted to get someone in fast and explained she is only the interim leader while a full application process is carried out.
She described her role as a complex job with many requirements including services and logistics, for which experience in retail will help.
Baroness Harding was head of telecoms giant TalkTalk when it suffered a huge cyberattack in 2015 with 157,000 customers' information accessed.
Image: People are queuing at coronavirus testing centres
Her admissions about testing problems contrast with Jacob Rees-Mogg, leader of the Commons, who earlier told people to stop their "endless carping" about test problems and claimed the current system is a "phenomenal success".
It comes as the head of Ireland's Health Service Executive, Paul Reid, said senior NHS officials contacted him to ask if Irish labs could be used to turn around UK tests.
He said they were not able to so the request was turned down but the UK Test and Trace system may "almost collapse".
Prof Allyson Pollock, director of the health and society institute at Newcastle University, said of the new restrictions being imposed on large parts of northeast England: "There's no doubt that if Test and Trace had been working efficiently and effectively we wouldn't be in this situation.
"This is a mess entirely of the government's making and the public unfortunately are having to bear the pain of this.
"A big part of the problem is politicians blaming the public, who have been absolutely incredible."
Former prime minister David Cameron also told LBC on Thursday "the danger is" the government is being "very reactive" to coronavirus.
He said he and the four other living former premiers are "all very keen" to push for mass testing.


skynewspolitics--2020-09-17--North East lockdown: Curfew for bars and pubs and ban on household mixing begins

New local restrictions are being introduced in northeast England - including a 10pm curfew for bars and pubs and a ban on people mixing with others outside their household .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock confirmed the measures in a statement to the House of Commons on Thursday following government talks with North East councils and local MPs .
They come into force today in Northumberland , North Tyneside , South Tyneside , Newcastle-upon-Tyne , Gateshead , Sunderland and County Durham .
Live coverage of the latest coronavirus news and updates • Residents being told not to socialise with people outside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ service only in bars , pubs , cafes and restaurants • All bars , pubs , restaurants , cafes and other leisure and entertainment venues to close between 10pm and 5am Speaking before the UK recorded another 3,395 cases on Thursday and 21 more deaths , Mr Hancock told MPs : `` Like many other countries around the world , we 're continuing to see a concerning rise in cases with 3,991 new cases recorded yesterday .
`` And this week the number of patients in mechanical ventilator beds has risen above 100 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The battle against coronavirus is not over . ''
The health secretary said there had been `` concerning rates of infection '' in parts of the North East .
`` We agree with the local councils that we must follow the data and act and the data says that we must act now so that we can control the virus and keep people safe , '' he added .
`` And I know that the people of the North East will come together to beat this virus , as defeat it we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Merseyside is to be placed under the same lockdown restrictions due to a soaring number of infections in some areas .
A government announcement is expected today , according to the Liverpool Echo .
Mr Hancock also used his Commons statement to announce that the government was giving a further £2.7bn to the NHS ahead of this winter .
It will help hospitals operate `` safely in a world in which COVID-19 is still at large '' as they work through a backlog of operations delayed by the lockdown earlier this year , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also continue to invest in making accident and emergency departments bigger so they `` have the space to continue treating patients safely in the coming months '' , Mr Hancock said .
Labour 's shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth accused the government of having `` failed '' to deliver an effective test and trace programme as millions more people prepare to live under localised restrictions in the UK .
`` The British people made great sacrifices , they missed family celebrations , they could n't say their final goodbyes to loved ones at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ side of the bargain , '' he said .
`` In return , the government was supposed to deliver effective testing and tracing .
`` The government failed and we have vast swathes of the country under restrictions . ''
Mr Hancock insisted testing capacity was at `` record levels '' but admitted there was a `` challenge '' being presented by demand for tests rising faster .
: : Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Ian Mearns , Labour 's MP for Gateshead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see any alternative to the measures .
`` I 've certainly warned the government directly in the Commons for the last two or three weeks that cases were going up and yet local testing capacity was being drawn elsewhere , '' he said .
`` Despite the fact that we were doing fewer tests , our case numbers seem to have quadrupled in the last three weeks .
`` So we really are on the precipice and we do need to take some action . ''
Professor Sian Griffiths , Public Health England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ problems with the government 's testing system meant the number of coronavirus cases was likely being underestimated .
`` In all probability that 's what it means , '' she said .
`` It 's really important that the problems with the testing system do get dealt with . ''
She said infection numbers in Germany were not increasing as fast as those in the UK .
`` That may well be to do with their very enhanced testing system and to the fact they 've really invested in local public health , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ given local public health resources and capacity to deal with local lockdown and I think we need to learn by observing what 's going on across Europe and make sure that we apply the lessons here in the UK . ''
Superintendent Steve Long , of Durham Constabulary , said : `` We would like to thank the vast majority of people who have taken personal responsibility , done the right thing and stuck to the guidance over the last few months .
`` Our officers will continue to engage with the public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people to act responsibly ; only then will we move to enforcement as a last resort . ''
Nick Forbes , leader of Newcastle City Council , earlier said his council had asked the government for `` additional temporary restrictions '' after becoming `` very concerned about the exponential rise in the number of COVID-19 cases across the North East '' .
He told Kay Burley : `` Our evidence from contact tracing tells us it 's happening broadly in three main areas ; in bars and pubs , in people 's homes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ So what we 've done is try to get ahead of the curve and ask government for some additional temporary restrictions so that we can get on top of the virus in all of those areas . ''
Explaining the reason for a 10pm curfew for bars , pubs and restaurants , Mr Forbes said : `` One of the challenges has been groups of people meeting up in our towns and city centres very late at night - and after a few drinks that means social distancing goes out the window .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ is n't another opportunity for the virus to keep spreading . ''
Mr Forbes added that Newcastle City Council had asked for an exemption on informal childcare arrangements with extended family members .
According to Sky News data , the two-week coronavirus infection rate per 100,000 in the seven local authority areas facing new restrictions are : Kevan Jones , Labour MP for North Durham , criticised the government 's `` farcical '' handling of rising infection rates in northeast England - and described the testing programme in the region as a `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health minister Edward Argar told Sky News : `` In the North East we are seeing a spike in infections .
It is exactly what we have seen in the North West .
`` We monitor that rate .
Where we need to , we step in and take action . ''
Mr Argar said , in northwest England , the rise in infections was due to people not adhering to social distancing rules with different households meeting up in close proximity .
He added : `` Obviously a night-time economy can fuel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pub , people have been out late into the evening .
`` That 's one of the ways in which that transmission can increase . ''

New local restrictions are being introduced in northeast England - including a 10pm curfew for bars and pubs and a ban on people mixing with others outside their household.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock confirmed the measures in a statement to the House of Commons on Thursday following government talks with North East councils and local MPs.
They come into force today in Northumberland, North Tyneside, South Tyneside, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Gateshead, Sunderland and County Durham.
Live coverage of the latest coronavirus news and updates
Image: Newcastle is among the areas where pubs will have to operate with a curfew
The restrictions include:
Residents being told not to socialise with people outside their household or social bubble
Table service only in bars, pubs, cafes and restaurants
All bars, pubs, restaurants, cafes and other leisure and entertainment venues to close between 10pm and 5am
Speaking before the UK recorded another 3,395 cases on Thursday and 21 more deaths, Mr Hancock told MPs: "Like many other countries around the world, we're continuing to see a concerning rise in cases with 3,991 new cases recorded yesterday.
"And this week the number of patients in mechanical ventilator beds has risen above 100 for the first time since July.
"The battle against coronavirus is not over."
The health secretary said there had been "concerning rates of infection" in parts of the North East.
Advertisement
"We agree with the local councils that we must follow the data and act and the data says that we must act now so that we can control the virus and keep people safe," he added.
"And I know that the people of the North East will come together to beat this virus, as defeat it we must."
Reports subsequently emerged that Merseyside is to be placed under the same lockdown restrictions due to a soaring number of infections in some areas.
A government announcement is expected today, according to the Liverpool Echo.
Mr Hancock also used his Commons statement to announce that the government was giving a further £2.7bn to the NHS ahead of this winter.
It will help hospitals operate "safely in a world in which COVID-19 is still at large" as they work through a backlog of operations delayed by the lockdown earlier this year, he told MPs.
The government will also continue to invest in making accident and emergency departments bigger so they "have the space to continue treating patients safely in the coming months", Mr Hancock said.
Labour's shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth accused the government of having "failed" to deliver an effective test and trace programme as millions more people prepare to live under localised restrictions in the UK.
"The British people made great sacrifices, they missed family celebrations, they couldn't say their final goodbyes to loved ones at funerals but the British people honoured their side of the bargain," he said.
"In return, the government was supposed to deliver effective testing and tracing.
"The government failed and we have vast swathes of the country under restrictions."
Mr Hancock insisted testing capacity was at "record levels" but admitted there was a "challenge" being presented by demand for tests rising faster.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Ian Mearns, Labour's MP for Gateshead, told Sky News he could not see any alternative to the measures.
"I've certainly warned the government directly in the Commons for the last two or three weeks that cases were going up and yet local testing capacity was being drawn elsewhere," he said.
"Despite the fact that we were doing fewer tests, our case numbers seem to have quadrupled in the last three weeks.
"So we really are on the precipice and we do need to take some action."
Professor Sian Griffiths, Public Health England advisor, said it was likely that problems with the government's testing system meant the number of coronavirus cases was likely being underestimated.
"In all probability that's what it means," she said.
"It's really important that the problems with the testing system do get dealt with."
She said infection numbers in Germany were not increasing as fast as those in the UK.
"That may well be to do with their very enhanced testing system and to the fact they've really invested in local public health," she said.
"They've given local public health resources and capacity to deal with local lockdown and I think we need to learn by observing what's going on across Europe and make sure that we apply the lessons here in the UK."
Superintendent Steve Long, of Durham Constabulary, said: "We would like to thank the vast majority of people who have taken personal responsibility, done the right thing and stuck to the guidance over the last few months.
"Our officers will continue to engage with the public, explain the new regulations and encourage people to act responsibly; only then will we move to enforcement as a last resort."
Nick Forbes, leader of Newcastle City Council, earlier said his council had asked the government for "additional temporary restrictions" after becoming "very concerned about the exponential rise in the number of COVID-19 cases across the North East".
He told Kay Burley: "Our evidence from contact tracing tells us it's happening broadly in three main areas; in bars and pubs, in people's homes, and in grassroots sports.
"So what we've done is try to get ahead of the curve and ask government for some additional temporary restrictions so that we can get on top of the virus in all of those areas."
Explaining the reason for a 10pm curfew for bars, pubs and restaurants, Mr Forbes said: "One of the challenges has been groups of people meeting up in our towns and city centres very late at night - and after a few drinks that means social distancing goes out the window.
"So we want to ensure that isn't another opportunity for the virus to keep spreading."
Mr Forbes added that Newcastle City Council had asked for an exemption on informal childcare arrangements with extended family members.
According to Sky News data, the two-week coronavirus infection rate per 100,000 in the seven local authority areas facing new restrictions are:
Sunderland: 155.7
South Tyneside: 155.1
Gateshead: 139.7
Newcastle 116.3
North Tyneside: 85
County Durham: 70.2
Northumberland: 47.1
Kevan Jones, Labour MP for North Durham, criticised the government's "farcical" handling of rising infection rates in northeast England - and described the testing programme in the region as a "shambles".
On Thursday morning, health minister Edward Argar told Sky News: "In the North East we are seeing a spike in infections. It is exactly what we have seen in the North West.
"We monitor that rate. Where we need to, we step in and take action."
Mr Argar said, in northwest England, the rise in infections was due to people not adhering to social distancing rules with different households meeting up in close proximity.
He added: "Obviously a night-time economy can fuel that when people have been to the pub, people have been out late into the evening.
"That's one of the ways in which that transmission can increase."


skynewspolitics--2020-09-17--Rees-Mogg: 'Stop endless carping about testing problems'

A Cabinet minister has bemoaned `` endless carping '' about problems with coronavirus testing and claimed the current system is a `` phenomenal success '' .
The government is under increasing pressure after many people reported problems in being able to get a COVID-19 test , as well as them being advised to travel to distant parts of the country to secure one .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has admitted there is not enough testing capacity after demand `` massively accelerated '' in recent weeks .
Live coverage of the latest coronavirus news and updates But his Cabinet minister Jacob @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Commons , on Thursday called for people to be `` reasonable '' about the issue .
Describing how he himself had to self-isolate while a member of his family awaited a coronavirus test , Mr Rees-Mogg told MPs : `` We all have an obligation to try and stop a dangerous disease spreading .
`` But the issue of testing is one where we have gone from a disease that nobody knew about a few months ago to one where nearly a quarter of a million people a day can be tested .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ that to go up to half a million people a day by the end of October .
`` And instead of this endless carping , saying it is difficult to get them , we should actually celebrate the phenomenal success of the British nation in getting up to a quarter of a million tests of a disease that nobody knew about until earlier in the year .
`` That is a success of our scientists , our health experts and of our administration .
`` Yes there 's demand for more , yes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ growing , the supply is increasing and what is being done is really rather remarkable and something we should be proud of . ''
: : Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker It came as the UK recorded another 3,395 cases on Thursday and 21 more deaths .
Mr Rees-Mogg made his comments in response to Labour 's shadow Commons leader Valerie Vaz , who claimed the government 's approach to testing was `` all talk , talk and no test , test '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Labour 's shadow public health minister Alex Norris called on Mr Rees-Mogg to apologise .
He said : `` For weeks , people across the country have been struggling to get coronavirus tests .
`` But rather than fixing problems , the government has instead resorted to a blizzard of blame shifting and excuses .
`` Now , out-of-touch ministers have got a new message to those who ca n't get tests : 'stop complaining and praise us ' .
`` Whining about the public not being grateful enough wo n't sort anything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ testing shambles they are presiding over . ''

A Cabinet minister has bemoaned "endless carping" about problems with coronavirus testing and claimed the current system is a "phenomenal success".
The government is under increasing pressure after many people reported problems in being able to get a COVID-19 test, as well as them being advised to travel to distant parts of the country to secure one.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has admitted there is not enough testing capacity after demand "massively accelerated" in recent weeks.
Live coverage of the latest coronavirus news and updates
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:34 PM: We don't have enough testing capacity
But his Cabinet minister Jacob Rees-Mogg, Leader of the House of Commons, on Thursday called for people to be "reasonable" about the issue.
Describing how he himself had to self-isolate while a member of his family awaited a coronavirus test, Mr Rees-Mogg told MPs: "We all have an obligation to try and stop a dangerous disease spreading.
"But the issue of testing is one where we have gone from a disease that nobody knew about a few months ago to one where nearly a quarter of a million people a day can be tested.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:27 'One of my children had a test last week'
"And the prime minister is expecting that to go up to half a million people a day by the end of October.
"And instead of this endless carping, saying it is difficult to get them, we should actually celebrate the phenomenal success of the British nation in getting up to a quarter of a million tests of a disease that nobody knew about until earlier in the year.
Advertisement
"That is a success of our scientists, our health experts and of our administration.
"Yes there's demand for more, yes demand exceeds supply - but it is growing, the supply is increasing and what is being done is really rather remarkable and something we should be proud of."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
It came as the UK recorded another 3,395 cases on Thursday and 21 more deaths.
Mr Rees-Mogg made his comments in response to Labour's shadow Commons leader Valerie Vaz, who claimed the government's approach to testing was "all talk, talk and no test, test".
Speaking after the Commons exchanges, Labour's shadow public health minister Alex Norris called on Mr Rees-Mogg to apologise.
He said: "For weeks, people across the country have been struggling to get coronavirus tests.
"But rather than fixing problems, the government has instead resorted to a blizzard of blame shifting and excuses.
"Now, out-of-touch ministers have got a new message to those who can't get tests: 'stop complaining and praise us'.
"Jacob Rees-Mogg should immediately apologise.
"Whining about the public not being grateful enough won't sort anything - only his government can fix the testing shambles they are presiding over."


skynewspolitics--2020-09-17--Wife of 'naughty Tory' jailed for sexual assault explains why she is backing his appeal

The wife of `` naughty Tory '' Charlie Elphicke - who announced she was divorcing him when he was convicted of sexual assault on two women - has revealed why she is backing his appeal .
Natalie Elphicke , who succeeded her husband as MP for Dover at the December general election , claims he was the victim of a miscarriage of justice and that the allegations against him were nonsense .
At Mr Elphicke 's trial , the court heard that in 2007 he chased a victim around a room chanting `` I 'm a naughty Tory '' , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ court as resembling a Benny Hill sketch .
And on the day he was convicted , 30 July , Mrs Elphicke tweeted : `` Today 's verdict is one that brings profound sorrow .
It ends my 25-year marriage to the only man I have ever loved . ''
Earlier this week Mr Elphicke was jailed for two years , with the judge telling him : `` This was a campaign of harassment .
You 're a sexual predator who used your success and respectability as a cover . ''
Now , writing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` Following an unfair trial during the COVID-19 pandemic , I believe that Charlie was convicted in a terrible miscarriage of justice .
`` It was obvious to me from reading the evidence during lockdown that the criminal allegations against him were complete nonsense , and I still believe they are . ''
She begins her article : `` Men sometimes stray , wives always wish they would n't .
During the past three years I learned a lot about Charlie mucking around with other women , which I would rather not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the court was told about an affair he had - not with either of the women who were his accusers in court .
: : Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' Naturally , I was furious about it , as I knew the woman involved .
`` Indeed , Charlie told me he ended the affair because he was concerned that I might get suspicious .
As well as his disloyalty , I could n't believe his stupidity .
`` She was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that at one point I banned him from driving her home , lest he be tempted .
And of course , it turned out to be so .
`` But a consensual affair , however wrongful in his marriage to me , is a very different thing from being accused of sex crimes . ''
Mrs Elphicke writes : `` Charlie is charming , wealthy , charismatic and successful - attractive , and attracted to , women .
All things that in today 's climate made him an easy target for dirty politics @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resolved to stand by him while he fought off these allegations in court and decided that I would leave him after that .
It did n't quite work out that way . ''
She reveals that , after his conviction , Mr Elphicke `` turned up on the doorstep begging to be let in '' because the judge had ordered him to live at their home .
`` So I had little option but to exile him to the spare room downstairs , '' she says .
Mrs Elphicke , who like her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ community sentence would have been appropriate for her husband .
Sending him to jail was an injustice , she claims .
She says she now can not consider their future together , `` because not only was he wrongly convicted , but he is now wrongly in jail '' .
And Mrs Elphicke concludes : `` That is one of the reasons I will be supporting his appeal against this wrongful conviction and serious miscarriage of justice . ''

The wife of "naughty Tory" Charlie Elphicke - who announced she was divorcing him when he was convicted of sexual assault on two women - has revealed why she is backing his appeal.
Natalie Elphicke, who succeeded her husband as MP for Dover at the December general election, claims he was the victim of a miscarriage of justice and that the allegations against him were nonsense.
At Mr Elphicke's trial, the court heard that in 2007 he chased a victim around a room chanting "I'm a naughty Tory", in a scene that was described in court as resembling a Benny Hill sketch.
Image: The Dover MP said she had 'exiled him to the spare room downstairs'
And on the day he was convicted, 30 July, Mrs Elphicke tweeted: "Today's verdict is one that brings profound sorrow. It ends my 25-year marriage to the only man I have ever loved."
Earlier this week Mr Elphicke was jailed for two years, with the judge telling him: "This was a campaign of harassment. You're a sexual predator who used your success and respectability as a cover."
Now, writing in The Sun, Mrs Elphicke says: "Following an unfair trial during the COVID-19 pandemic, I believe that Charlie was convicted in a terrible miscarriage of justice.
"It was obvious to me from reading the evidence during lockdown that the criminal allegations against him were complete nonsense, and I still believe they are."
She begins her article: "Men sometimes stray, wives always wish they wouldn't. During the past three years I learned a lot about Charlie mucking around with other women, which I would rather not have known.
"During the trial the court was told about an affair he had - not with either of the women who were his accusers in court.
Advertisement
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
"Naturally, I was furious about it, as I knew the woman involved.
"Indeed, Charlie told me he ended the affair because he was concerned that I might get suspicious. As well as his disloyalty, I couldn't believe his stupidity.
"She was so embarrassingly and gushingly obsessed with him that at one point I banned him from driving her home, lest he be tempted. And of course, it turned out to be so.
"But a consensual affair, however wrongful in his marriage to me, is a very different thing from being accused of sex crimes."
Mrs Elphicke writes: "Charlie is charming, wealthy, charismatic and successful - attractive, and attracted to, women. All things that in today's climate made him an easy target for dirty politics and false allegations.
"So I resolved to stand by him while he fought off these allegations in court and decided that I would leave him after that. It didn't quite work out that way."
She reveals that, after his conviction, Mr Elphicke "turned up on the doorstep begging to be let in" because the judge had ordered him to live at their home.
"So I had little option but to exile him to the spare room downstairs," she says.
Mrs Elphicke, who like her husband is a lawyer, says a community sentence would have been appropriate for her husband. Sending him to jail was an injustice, she claims.
She says she now cannot consider their future together, "because not only was he wrongly convicted, but he is now wrongly in jail".
And Mrs Elphicke concludes: "That is one of the reasons I will be supporting his appeal against this wrongful conviction and serious miscarriage of justice."


skynewspolitics--2020-09-17--Downing Street hits back at Joe Biden and suggests he doesn't understand its Brexit proposals

Downing Street has suggested US presidential candidate Joe Biden does n't understand its proposed Brexit legislation after the White House hopeful weighed into the controversy .
On Wednesday night , Mr Biden issued a warning that a post-Brexit US-UK trade deal `` must be contingent upon respect '' for the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland , and the avoidance of a hard border on the island of Ireland .
The Democratic presidential candidate , who is hoping to beat Donald Trump in November 's presidential election , wrote on Twitter : `` We ca n't allow the Good Friday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to become a casualty of Brexit . ''
Mr Biden , a former US vice president , posted his tweet in response to a letter from four US congressmen warning of their `` grave concern '' over the UK government 's plans to override provisions for Northern Ireland in the UK 's withdrawal agreement with the EU .
The government has admitted its UK Internal Market Bill , if passed , would break international law - but stressed it is `` critical '' to ensuring the unfettered access for goods from Northern Ireland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and to protect the Good Friday Agreement .
Mr Biden 's stance contrasted with Donald Trump 's Secretary of State Mike Pompeo , who said he had `` great confidence '' that the UK government `` will get this right in a way that treats everyone fairly '' .
: : Subscribe to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Asked to respond to Mr Biden 's comments on Thursday , a Number 10 spokesman said : `` We continue to remain absolutely committed to no hard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland .
`` And we will continue to engage with our US partners on a bipartisan basis to ensure that our positions are understood . ''
Asked if Mr Biden was wrong , the spokesman responded : `` We will continue to work with our US partners to ensure our position is understood , but the whole point of this - as the prime minister has set out - is to make sure the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement is upheld . ''
Downing Street 's comments came after former @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Biden to `` worry more '' about `` killing and rioting '' in the US than the government 's Brexit legislation .
He told The Times : `` We do n't need lectures on the Northern Ireland peace deal from Mr Biden .
`` If I were him I would worry more about the need for a peace deal in the USA to stop the killing and rioting before lecturing other sovereign nations . ''
The government 's UK Internal Market Bill has prompted a storm of criticism both at Westminster and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU stuck by its demand for the UK government to withdraw part of the proposed legislation by the end of this month .
: : Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Eric Mamer , chief spokesperson of the European Commission , told reporters : `` We have as you know set out a position extremely clearly , it is in our statement , and it relates to those clauses being withdrawn from the law .
`` That position has not changed and we have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the earliest possible convenience and by the end of September at the latest .
That has not changed . ''
Mr Mamer had been asked whether Prime Minister Boris Johnson 's compromise with Tory rebels - which would give MPs a vote before using powers that would break international law - had altered the EU 's stance .

Downing Street has suggested US presidential candidate Joe Biden doesn't understand its proposed Brexit legislation after the White House hopeful weighed into the controversy.
On Wednesday night, Mr Biden issued a warning that a post-Brexit US-UK trade deal "must be contingent upon respect" for the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland, and the avoidance of a hard border on the island of Ireland.
The Democratic presidential candidate, who is hoping to beat Donald Trump in November's presidential election, wrote on Twitter: "We can't allow the Good Friday Agreement that brought peace to Northern Ireland to become a casualty of Brexit."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:49 PM compromises on Brexit bill
Mr Biden, a former US vice president, posted his tweet in response to a letter from four US congressmen warning of their "grave concern" over the UK government's plans to override provisions for Northern Ireland in the UK's withdrawal agreement with the EU.
The government has admitted its UK Internal Market Bill, if passed, would break international law - but stressed it is "critical" to ensuring the unfettered access for goods from Northern Ireland to the rest of the UK, and to protect the Good Friday Agreement.
Mr Biden's stance contrasted with Donald Trump's Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who said he had "great confidence" that the UK government "will get this right in a way that treats everyone fairly".
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Asked to respond to Mr Biden's comments on Thursday, a Number 10 spokesman said: "We continue to remain absolutely committed to no hard border and no border infrastructure between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
"And we will continue to engage with our US partners on a bipartisan basis to ensure that our positions are understood."
Advertisement
Asked if Mr Biden was wrong, the spokesman responded: "We will continue to work with our US partners to ensure our position is understood, but the whole point of this - as the prime minister has set out - is to make sure the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement is upheld."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:30 'We trust the United Kingdom'
Downing Street's comments came after former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith warned Mr Biden to "worry more" about "killing and rioting" in the US than the government's Brexit legislation.
He told The Times: "We don't need lectures on the Northern Ireland peace deal from Mr Biden.
"If I were him I would worry more about the need for a peace deal in the USA to stop the killing and rioting before lecturing other sovereign nations."
The government's UK Internal Market Bill has prompted a storm of criticism both at Westminster and in Brussels.
On Thursday, the EU stuck by its demand for the UK government to withdraw part of the proposed legislation by the end of this month.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Eric Mamer, chief spokesperson of the European Commission, told reporters: "We have as you know set out a position extremely clearly, it is in our statement, and it relates to those clauses being withdrawn from the law.
"That position has not changed and we have asked the UK to do this at the earliest possible convenience and by the end of September at the latest. That has not changed."
Mr Mamer had been asked whether Prime Minister Boris Johnson's compromise with Tory rebels - which would give MPs a vote before using powers that would break international law - had altered the EU's stance.


skynewspolitics--2020-09-17--'Failing' Chris Grayling lands £100,000 role with ports company

Former cabinet minister Chris Grayling - who once gave a multimillion-pound contract to a ferry firm with no ships - has landed a new £275 per hour role with a major ports company .
According to updated parliamentary records , the Conservative MP will earn £100,000 per year as a `` strategic adviser '' to Hutchison Ports Europe .
A new entry in the register of MPs ' interests states that Mr Grayling expects to do about seven hours of work per week in the role .
The former transport secretary , who was involved in no-deal Brexit planning for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a government minister , consulted a Whitehall watchdog about taking on the position .
The Advisory Committee on Business Appointments , chaired by Mr Grayling 's former cabinet colleague Lord Pickles , considers the appropriateness of new jobs taken on by former ministers .
The committee ruled that Mr Grayling should not give any advice to Hutchison on matters relating to his Brexit planning work while transport secretary for a period of two years since he left office .
They also said - for the same two-year period - he should not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ directly to government work , and not become personally involved in lobbying ministers on behalf of the firm .
Hutchison describes itself as the `` world 's leading port network '' with more than 30,000 employees , operating ports and terminals in 27 countries .
Its European arm operates in Belgium , Germany , Poland , Spain , Sweden , the Netherlands and the UK - where it owns ports at Harwich , Felixstowe and Rochester .
While transport secretary , Mr Grayling awarded Seaborne Freight a £13.8m contract to ensure ferries kept @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK leaves the EU without an exit agreement .
The government was heavily criticised after it emerged the firm had no vessels suitable for carrying goods or vehicles , and had copied its terms and conditions of business from the website of a takeaway .
The contract was later ripped up .
: : Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Grayling was sacked as a cabinet minister by Mr Johnson when he became prime minister last July .
During his previous nine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spells in three different cabinet roles , Mr Grayling became known by critics as `` failing Grayling '' due to a number of controversies at his various departments .
Last month , Mr Grayling resigned as a member of the House of Commons Intelligence and Security Committee - six weeks after he was defeated in his attempt to become its chair .
Mr Grayling 's register of interests also notes that he employs his wife Sue as his parliamentary office manager .
In 2017 , newly elected MPs were told they would no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other relatives using taxpayers ' money .
The restriction did n't apply to those who already employed `` connected parties '' .
Mr Grayling has been MP for Epsom and Ewell since 2001 .

Former cabinet minister Chris Grayling - who once gave a multimillion-pound contract to a ferry firm with no ships - has landed a new £275 per hour role with a major ports company.
According to updated parliamentary records, the Conservative MP will earn £100,000 per year as a "strategic adviser" to Hutchison Ports Europe.
A new entry in the register of MPs' interests states that Mr Grayling expects to do about seven hours of work per week in the role.
Image: Hutchison owns Felixstowe port in the UK
The former transport secretary, who was involved in no-deal Brexit planning for the UK's ports during his time as a government minister, consulted a Whitehall watchdog about taking on the position.
The Advisory Committee on Business Appointments, chaired by Mr Grayling's former cabinet colleague Lord Pickles, considers the appropriateness of new jobs taken on by former ministers.
The committee ruled that Mr Grayling should not give any advice to Hutchison on matters relating to his Brexit planning work while transport secretary for a period of two years since he left office.
They also said - for the same two-year period - he should not work on Hutchison contracts that might relate directly to government work, and not become personally involved in lobbying ministers on behalf of the firm.
Hutchison describes itself as the "world's leading port network" with more than 30,000 employees, operating ports and terminals in 27 countries.
Its European arm operates in Belgium, Germany, Poland, Spain, Sweden, the Netherlands and the UK - where it owns ports at Harwich, Felixstowe and Rochester.
Advertisement
While transport secretary, Mr Grayling awarded Seaborne Freight a £13.8m contract to ensure ferries kept crossing the Channel in the event that the UK leaves the EU without an exit agreement.
The government was heavily criticised after it emerged the firm had no vessels suitable for carrying goods or vehicles, and had copied its terms and conditions of business from the website of a takeaway.
The contract was later ripped up.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Mr Grayling was sacked as a cabinet minister by Mr Johnson when he became prime minister last July.
During his previous nine years as a government minister, including spells in three different cabinet roles, Mr Grayling became known by critics as "failing Grayling" due to a number of controversies at his various departments.
Last month, Mr Grayling resigned as a member of the House of Commons Intelligence and Security Committee - six weeks after he was defeated in his attempt to become its chair.
Mr Grayling's register of interests also notes that he employs his wife Sue as his parliamentary office manager.
In 2017, newly elected MPs were told they would no longer be allowed to employ spouses and other relatives using taxpayers' money.
The restriction didn't apply to those who already employed "connected parties".
Mr Grayling has been MP for Epsom and Ewell since 2001.