skynewspolitics--2020-12-09--Theresa May and Boris Johnson's words on the Irish border have come back to haunt them

The government is effectively establishing a border between Northern Ireland and Great Britain , writes Sky 's David Blevins .
Brexit : Theresa May and Boris Johnson 's words on the Irish border have come back to haunt them Theresa May and Boris Johnson 's words have come back to haunt them Theresa May famously told the British Parliament that `` no UK prime minister could ever agree '' to a border in the Irish Sea .
Boris Johnson later told a Democratic Unionist Party conference that `` no British Conservative government could or should sign up to any such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back to haunt them .
By agreeing to implement the Northern Ireland protocol of the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement , the government is effectively establishing a border between Northern Ireland and Great Britain .
Not that cabinet minister Michael Gove is admitting that .
`` British sausages will still make their way to Belfast and Ballymena , '' he joked in the Commons .
Having threatened to break international law , the government has conceded on an east-west sea border , ensuring there is no need for a north-south land one .
Various mitigations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ checks are required , will reduce the economic impact in the short term .
But Unionists fears a constitutional impact in the long term - with the DUP warning that `` safeguarding the union is not a three-month , six-month or 12-month project '' but `` an enduring commitment '' .
The Ulster Unionist Party says the DUP 's red line `` has been washed away '' and the Traditional Unionist Voice , another Unionist party , claims the deal leaves Northern Ireland `` in the waiting room '' for Irish unity .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ raised Unionist hopes that the government might renege on its acceptance of a border in the Irish Sea .
Unionists rejected Theresa May 's backstop , which would have kept all the UK in the EU 's Single Market if that was necessary to avoid internal borders .
They have ended up with something much less palatable to them - an economic line down the Irish Sea , between Northern Ireland and Great Britain .
That is a border by any other name .

The government is effectively establishing a border between Northern Ireland and Great Britain, writes Sky's David Blevins.
Brexit: Theresa May and Boris Johnson's words on the Irish border have come back to haunt them
Theresa May and Boris Johnson's words have come back to haunt them
Theresa May famously told the British Parliament that "no UK prime minister could ever agree" to a border in the Irish Sea.
Boris Johnson later told a Democratic Unionist Party conference that "no British Conservative government could or should sign up to any such arrangement".
Their words have come back to haunt them.
Image: The Northern Ireland Protocol aims to avoid a hard border on the island of Ireland
By agreeing to implement the Northern Ireland protocol of the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement, the government is effectively establishing a border between Northern Ireland and Great Britain.
Not that cabinet minister Michael Gove is admitting that.
"British sausages will still make their way to Belfast and Ballymena," he joked in the Commons.
Having threatened to break international law, the government has conceded on an east-west sea border, ensuring there is no need for a north-south land one.
Various mitigations, such as grace periods before some checks are required, will reduce the economic impact in the short term.
But Unionists fears a constitutional impact in the long term - with the DUP warning that "safeguarding the union is not a three-month, six-month or 12-month project" but "an enduring commitment".
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The Ulster Unionist Party says the DUP's red line "has been washed away" and the Traditional Unionist Voice, another Unionist party, claims the deal leaves Northern Ireland "in the waiting room" for Irish unity.
The threat to break international law had raised Unionist hopes that the government might renege on its acceptance of a border in the Irish Sea.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 11:31 Brexit: 'Smoother glidepath' to NI deal
Unionists rejected Theresa May's backstop, which would have kept all the UK in the EU's Single Market if that was necessary to avoid internal borders.
They have ended up with something much less palatable to them - an economic line down the Irish Sea, between Northern Ireland and Great Britain.
That is a border by any other name.


skynewspolitics--2020-12-09--MPs could be kept at Westminster until Christmas Eve to pass Brexit deal - Speaker

Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle says he is prepared to keep MPs at Westminster until Christmas Eve if necessary to get a Brexit deal through Parliament .
He told Sky News the current plan is for the Commons to rise on 21 December , but it would be better to sit for a few more days rather than go through the difficulty of returning MPs after breaking up .
Sir Lindsay spoke after attending a socially distanced carol service for MPs and Commons staff around the giant Christmas tree in New Palace Yard - the outdoor area above Parliament 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sky News , Leader of the Commons Jacob Rees-Mogg said Boris Johnson was defending `` the big issue '' of sovereignty in his Brussels talks and was standing up for Britain .
In his interview , after telling MPs earlier that next week 's PMQs was due to be the last before Christmas , Sir Lindsay said : `` I would like to believe that we will all be going up on the date that 's expected of the House .
`` But if needs be , the House is the servant and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to ensure we can run , as far as I 'm concerned , even up to Christmas Eve .
`` I would like to believe we can finish on the Monday before Christmas .
I would like to put everything to bed and get everybody away from here . ''
Sir Lindsay added : `` It 's not about MPs .
It 's also about the staff that have kept the House on the road .
To keep the tap going is one thing , but to turn it off and turn it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Speaking while the prime minister was dining with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels , Mr Rees-Mogg said of Mr Johnson 's dinner date with destiny : `` Essentially , it boils down to one thing and that 's sovereignty .
`` We have to be in charge of our own affairs , which is what people voted for in 2016 and then voted for again in 2019 and the prime minister is standing up for the British people . ''
The carol service was held by the Speaker @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hillas , as `` a big Christmas thank you '' to parliamentary staff for keeping the House of Commons going during the coronavirus pandemic .
The scaled-down gathering was live-streamed for staff working from home and music was provided by a small band from the Salvation Army , whose annual carol concert in Westminster Hall was cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions .
Addressing the 70-strong congregation spread out across New Palace Yard , Sir Lindsay said : `` Like everyone else , I wish we could have Christmas events for us to gather @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` After the year we have had , we all need a bit of cheer , but sadly , COVID has meant that all our plans must be different this year .
`` While we have had to scale down our sights , I still wanted to do something special to show my appreciation to our wonderful staff , who have kept us safe , kept us going , and allowed business to carry on .
`` This carol service is n't as big as we would like , but it is safe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the chance to thank our parliamentary community - both here and at home - for pulling together during a difficult time , and to wish them a very happy and well-deserved Christmas .
`` But be certain , once the vaccine kicks in and COVID restrictions are lifted , I am sure - like the rest of the country - we will organise a lovely celebration . ''

Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle says he is prepared to keep MPs at Westminster until Christmas Eve if necessary to get a Brexit deal through parliament.
He told Sky News the current plan is for the Commons to rise on 21 December, but it would be better to sit for a few more days rather than go through the difficulty of returning MPs after breaking up.
Sir Lindsay spoke after attending a socially distanced carol service for MPs and Commons staff around the giant Christmas tree in New Palace Yard - the outdoor area above parliament's underground car park.
Image: People gathered near the giant Christmas tree in New Palace Yard
Also speaking to Sky News, Leader of the Commons Jacob Rees-Mogg said Boris Johnson was defending "the big issue" of sovereignty in his Brussels talks and was standing up for Britain.
In his interview, after telling MPs earlier that next week's PMQs was due to be the last before Christmas, Sir Lindsay said: "I would like to believe that we will all be going up on the date that's expected of the House.
"But if needs be, the House is the servant and I am happy as being that servant to ensure we can run, as far as I'm concerned, even up to Christmas Eve.
"I would like to believe we can finish on the Monday before Christmas. I would like to put everything to bed and get everybody away from here."
Sir Lindsay added: "It's not about MPs. It's also about the staff that have kept the House on the road. To keep the tap going is one thing, but to turn it off and turn it back on would be very difficult."
Speaking while the prime minister was dining with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels, Mr Rees-Mogg said of Mr Johnson's dinner date with destiny: "Essentially, it boils down to one thing and that's sovereignty.
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"We have to be in charge of our own affairs, which is what people voted for in 2016 and then voted for again in 2019 and the prime minister is standing up for the British people."
Image: Jacob Rees-Mogg defended the PM for 'sticking up for Britain'
The carol service was held by the Speaker and his chaplain, the Rev Tricia Hillas, as "a big Christmas thank you" to parliamentary staff for keeping the House of Commons going during the coronavirus pandemic.
The scaled-down gathering was live-streamed for staff working from home and music was provided by a small band from the Salvation Army, whose annual carol concert in Westminster Hall was cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Image: 'Sadly Christmas is different this year,' the crowd was reminded
Addressing the 70-strong congregation spread out across New Palace Yard, Sir Lindsay said: "Like everyone else, I wish we could have Christmas events for us to gather together and celebrate the festive season.
"After the year we have had, we all need a bit of cheer, but sadly, COVID has meant that all our plans must be different this year.
"While we have had to scale down our sights, I still wanted to do something special to show my appreciation to our wonderful staff, who have kept us safe, kept us going, and allowed business to carry on.
"This carol service isn't as big as we would like, but it is safe and socially-distanced, and it gives me the chance to thank our parliamentary community - both here and at home - for pulling together during a difficult time, and to wish them a very happy and well-deserved Christmas.
"But be certain, once the vaccine kicks in and COVID restrictions are lifted, I am sure - like the rest of the country - we will organise a lovely celebration."


skynewspolitics--2020-12-09--Doctor who studied coronavirus for 30 years 'not contacted' by govt when pandemic began

A British doctor who has studied coronaviruses for 30 years has told Sky News he was not contacted by the government when the pandemic began .
Dr David Matthews was part of the only UK team working on human coronaviruses when COVID-19 first surfaced in China .
But despite his expertise , the virologist said his advice was not sought - and he was n't invited to join the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( SAGE ) .
The academic told Sky News ' Sarah Hewson : `` What we were doing was certainly not a secret .
Most people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at that time . ''
Dr Matthews claimed that , had his advice been sought , he would have encouraged Health Secretary Matt Hancock to prepare the UK `` with much more aggression '' - and he claimed the government 's initial communication around COVID-19 did n't reflect the challenges ahead .
Referring to January , when the government said coronavirus posed a `` low '' risk to the British public , Dr Matthews added : `` What they meant is that if you went to the shops , bought a newspaper and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ catching the virus that day was low .
`` But the risk to the UK overall was certain… a virus with that kind of capability to spread will definitely go around the globe , there 's no way of stopping it . ''
Dr Matthews said he first became aware of COVID-19 around Christmas and New Year , adding there was an `` amount of horror '' watching it unfold in the month that followed .
He realised the new strain of coronavirus would be serious during the `` dreadful moment '' when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at between 2.5 and 3.5 - with COVID-19 managing to escape Wuhan and asymptomatic carriers beginning to spread the virus .
The virologist said the UK government should have given greater thought about what could be done `` to protect ourselves both as individuals and as a country '' - and expressed dismay that `` people were treating it as a new strain of flu '' in the early days .
: : Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker When asked whether travel bans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ earlier , Dr Matthews added : `` I think we should have probably been much more aggressive . ''
He explained that the UK should have looked at containment control measures `` a lot harder and a lot more carefully '' .
Nonetheless , Dr Matthews described the UK 's rollout of the Pfizer/BioNtech vaccine as `` very exciting news '' - and said he was hopeful of a `` turnaround in fortunes '' over the next three to six months .
`` It 'll be a nice to have a smorgasbord of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make sure that we get maximum benefit from a vaccine programme , '' Dr Matthews said .
`` Hopefully by Easter we 'll have a wide range of vaccines to choose from and a deeper understanding of what 's the most effective way to squeeze these vaccines to their maximum potential . ''

A British doctor who has studied coronaviruses for 30 years has told Sky News he was not contacted by the government when the pandemic began.
Dr David Matthews was part of the only UK team working on human coronaviruses when COVID-19 first surfaced in China.
But despite his expertise, the virologist said his advice was not sought - and he wasn't invited to join the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).
Image: In January, Matt Hancock said the risk posed to the public by coronavirus was 'low'
The academic told Sky News' Sarah Hewson: "What we were doing was certainly not a secret. Most people knew that we were working on coronavirus at that time."
Dr Matthews claimed that, had his advice been sought, he would have encouraged Health Secretary Matt Hancock to prepare the UK "with much more aggression" - and he claimed the government's initial communication around COVID-19 didn't reflect the challenges ahead.
Referring to January, when the government said coronavirus posed a "low" risk to the British public, Dr Matthews added: "What they meant is that if you went to the shops, bought a newspaper and came home, the risk of you catching the virus that day was low.
"But the risk to the UK overall was certain… a virus with that kind of capability to spread will definitely go around the globe, there's no way of stopping it."
Dr Matthews said he first became aware of COVID-19 around Christmas and New Year, adding there was an "amount of horror" watching it unfold in the month that followed.
Image: Dr Matthews said he realised COVID-19 was serious when the virus managed to escape from Wuhan and China
He realised the new strain of coronavirus would be serious during the "dreadful moment" when the R number in China was estimated at between 2.5 and 3.5 - with COVID-19 managing to escape Wuhan and asymptomatic carriers beginning to spread the virus.
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The virologist said the UK government should have given greater thought about what could be done "to protect ourselves both as individuals and as a country" - and expressed dismay that "people were treating it as a new strain of flu" in the early days.
:: Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
When asked whether travel bans and quarantine measures should have been imposed earlier, Dr Matthews added: "I think we should have probably been much more aggressive."
He explained that the UK should have looked at containment control measures "a lot harder and a lot more carefully".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:50 First patient receives coronavirus vaccine
Nonetheless, Dr Matthews described the UK's rollout of the Pfizer/BioNtech vaccine as "very exciting news" - and said he was hopeful of a "turnaround in fortunes" over the next three to six months.
"It'll be a nice to have a smorgasbord of effective vaccines to choose from and to make sure that we get maximum benefit from a vaccine programme," Dr Matthews said.
"Hopefully by Easter we'll have a wide range of vaccines to choose from and a deeper understanding of what's the most effective way to squeeze these vaccines to their maximum potential."


skynewspolitics--2020-12-09--No EU 'mini-embassy' in Belfast as a result of Irish border deal, MPs told

The government is hailing agreement on implementing the Northern Ireland part of the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement as `` pragmatic and proportionate '' .
Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove MP told the Commons : `` British sausages will continue to make their way to Belfast and Ballymena in the New Year . ''
By implementing the protocol , the government is effectively establishing an east-west sea border , ensuring there is no need for a north-south land border .
Analysis : Theresa May and Boris Johnson 's words on the Irish border have come back to haunt them Mr Gove said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deliver a package which means that the protocol can be implemented in a pragmatic and a proportionate way .
`` It takes account of the Belfast Good Friday Agreement in all of its dimensions and it protects the interests both of the EU single market but more importantly , the territorial and constitutional integrity of the whole United Kingdom . ''
Under the protocol , Northern Ireland will remain in the EU single market for goods and enforce EU customs rules at its ports .
The two sides have agreed that supermarkets will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new checks to ensure there is no disruption to supply from 1 January 2021 .
Other mitigations include a trusted trader scheme exempting goods from tariffs and grace periods of three months for some agri-food checks , six months for frozen meat imports and 12 months for medicines .
Sir Jeffrey Donaldson MP , leader of the DUP at Westminster , said : `` Safeguarding the union is not a three-month , six month or three-year project ... it is an enduring commitment . ''
He urged Mr Gove to give a commitment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will introduce safeguard measures to ensure unfettered access in both directions for trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland '' .
Mr Gove told MPs that the agreement with Brussels on post-Brexit Irish border arrangements will prevent some export declarations , will avoid the risk of tariffs for goods brought into Northern Ireland , and wo n't see the establishment of an EU `` mini-embassy '' .
It follows his trip to Brussels this week , which saw the EU-UK Joint Committee - of which he is co-chair - settle outstanding issues from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the end of the Brexit transition period this month .
In return , the UK has promised to ditch certain parts of its Internal Market Bill , which sought to give ministers the power to override sections of the Withdrawal Agreement .
The EU had launched legal action against the UK as part of a bitter row over the legislation .
The Joint Committee 's agreement is separate from continuing negotiations over a post-Brexit trade deal , which is currently deadlocked ahead of Prime Minister Boris Johnson 's last-ditch trip to Brussels on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the Joint Committee 's agreement would protect `` unfettered access '' for Northern Ireland 's businesses to the rest of the UK market .
This includes `` removing any prospect of export declarations for Northern Ireland goods moving from Northern Ireland to Great Britain '' apart from the `` very limited and specific exception of trade in endangered species and conflict diamonds '' , Mr Gove said .
However , there will be a need to declare imports from Great Britain into Northern Ireland .
In addition , firms in Great Britain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rules where there is no `` genuine and direct '' link to Northern Ireland and no `` real foreseeable '' impact on Northern Ireland-EU trade .
The House of Commons was told that EU officials will be allowed to be present at Northern Ireland ports , as UK authorities carry out their own procedures .
But Mr Gove stressed `` there will be no Belfast 'mini-embassy ' or mission , as the EU originally sought '' .
`` And the EU officials will not have any powers to carry out checks themselves , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cabinet Office minister Rachel Reeves told Mr Gove that the government 's threat to breach international law through the Internal Market Bill had been `` a dangerous distraction '' .
And , asking a series of questions about border infrastructure preparations , business preparedness and the systems needed to make trade flow , she added : `` This really does give new meaning to the night before Christmas . ''
The DUP 's Sammy Wilson said that the `` real test '' of the agreement would be in how the measures `` work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ party opposed the protocol and warned about all of the problems which the minister is now having to address , '' he said .
`` And whilst we welcome the changes which have been made today , nevertheless the real test will be in how these measures work on the ground rather than the spin we 're given in this House . ''

The government is hailing agreement on implementing the Northern Ireland part of the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement as "pragmatic and proportionate".
Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove MP told the Commons: "British sausages will continue to make their way to Belfast and Ballymena in the New Year."
By implementing the protocol, the government is effectively establishing an east-west sea border, ensuring there is no need for a north-south land border.
Analysis: Theresa May and Boris Johnson's words on the Irish border have come back to haunt them
Image: Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove set out the details of his recently-struck agreement
Mr Gove said: "We've been able to deliver a package which means that the protocol can be implemented in a pragmatic and a proportionate way.
"It takes account of the Belfast Good Friday Agreement in all of its dimensions and it protects the interests both of the EU single market but more importantly, the territorial and constitutional integrity of the whole United Kingdom."
Under the protocol, Northern Ireland will remain in the EU single market for goods and enforce EU customs rules at its ports.
The two sides have agreed that supermarkets will be given extra time to phase in new checks to ensure there is no disruption to supply from 1 January 2021.
Other mitigations include a trusted trader scheme exempting goods from tariffs and grace periods of three months for some agri-food checks, six months for frozen meat imports and 12 months for medicines.
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Sir Jeffrey Donaldson MP, leader of the DUP at Westminster, said: "Safeguarding the union is not a three-month, six month or three-year project... it is an enduring commitment."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:59 Simpsons gag sparks moment of levity in Commons
He urged Mr Gove to give a commitment that "if necessary, the government will introduce safeguard measures to ensure unfettered access in both directions for trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland".
Mr Gove told MPs that the agreement with Brussels on post-Brexit Irish border arrangements will prevent some export declarations, will avoid the risk of tariffs for goods brought into Northern Ireland, and won't see the establishment of an EU "mini-embassy".
It follows his trip to Brussels this week, which saw the EU-UK Joint Committee - of which he is co-chair - settle outstanding issues from the UK's Withdrawal Agreement ahead of the end of the Brexit transition period this month.
In return, the UK has promised to ditch certain parts of its Internal Market Bill, which sought to give ministers the power to override sections of the Withdrawal Agreement.
The EU had launched legal action against the UK as part of a bitter row over the legislation.
The Joint Committee's agreement is separate from continuing negotiations over a post-Brexit trade deal, which is currently deadlocked ahead of Prime Minister Boris Johnson's last-ditch trip to Brussels on Wednesday evening.
Mr Gove told MPs that the Joint Committee's agreement would protect "unfettered access" for Northern Ireland's businesses to the rest of the UK market.
This includes "removing any prospect of export declarations for Northern Ireland goods moving from Northern Ireland to Great Britain" apart from the "very limited and specific exception of trade in endangered species and conflict diamonds", Mr Gove said.
However, there will be a need to declare imports from Great Britain into Northern Ireland.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:38 'Smoother glidepath' to Brexit deal - Gove
In addition, firms in Great Britain will stay outside of EU state aid rules where there is no "genuine and direct" link to Northern Ireland and no "real foreseeable" impact on Northern Ireland-EU trade.
The House of Commons was told that EU officials will be allowed to be present at Northern Ireland ports, as UK authorities carry out their own procedures.
But Mr Gove stressed "there will be no Belfast 'mini-embassy' or mission, as the EU originally sought".
"And the EU officials will not have any powers to carry out checks themselves," he added.
Labour's shadow Cabinet Office minister Rachel Reeves told Mr Gove that the government's threat to breach international law through the Internal Market Bill had been "a dangerous distraction".
And, asking a series of questions about border infrastructure preparations, business preparedness and the systems needed to make trade flow, she added: "This really does give new meaning to the night before Christmas."
The DUP's Sammy Wilson said that the "real test" of the agreement would be in how the measures "work on the ground".
"This party opposed the protocol and warned about all of the problems which the minister is now having to address," he said.
"And whilst we welcome the changes which have been made today, nevertheless the real test will be in how these measures work on the ground rather than the spin we're given in this House."


skynewspolitics--2020-12-10--'We will take a decision on Sunday,' says EU chief ahead of deadline for Brexit trade talks

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has given EU and UK negotiators three days to strike a trade deal as she declared : `` We will take a decision on Sunday . ''
Speaking at the start of an EU leaders ' summit in Brussels , Ms von der Leyen spoke of her `` long conversation '' with Prime Minister Boris Johnson over their three-hour dinner on Wednesday night .
Despite the two leaders ordering their chief negotiators to resume talks over the next few days , Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen also both agreed that trade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there are still `` major differences between the two sides '' .
Lord Frost , the UK 's chief negotiator , has remained in Brussels following Wednesday 's dinner to continue talks with his EU counterpart , Michel Barnier .
`` It was a good conversation but it is difficult , '' Ms von der Leyen said of her dinner with Mr Johnson , as EU leaders began to gather on Thursday to discuss the current state of post-Brexit trade talks .
`` We are willing to grant access to the single market @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the largest single market in the world - but the conditions have to be fair .
`` They have to be fair for our workers and for our companies and this fine balance of fairness has not been achieved so far .
`` Our negotiators are still working and we will take a decision on Sunday . ''
Ms von der Leyen spoke shortly after presenting an offer to the UK for a series of short-term mini-deals - for planes , lorries and fishing boats - should there be no full trade deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
European Council President Charles Michel said EU leaders would be briefed on the Brexit negotiations at the Brussels summit , but would not have a `` long debate '' on it .
`` We will defend our European interests , '' he added .
Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin said that a trade deal was `` within reach '' ahead of `` one final effort '' .
He added : `` 97 % of this is agreed .
Are we saying we are going to lose out on a deal because of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Secretary Dominic Raab told Sky News that Sunday will be a `` point of finality '' for Brexit trade talks if the EU does not `` move substantially '' in negotiations .
Mr Raab suggested Sunday was now being treated as a hard deadline by the UK government - by which to decide whether a free trade agreement is still possible .
`` I think we view it as a point when we need some finality , '' he said .
`` I 'm just a bit reticent ever to say - you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ negotiations .
`` Of course , it depends if the EU moves .
If the EU moves substantially and actually we 're only dotting a few Is or crossing a few Ts , it might be different .
`` But I think without movement on the crucial two , three areas that I 've described , I think that will be a point of finality .
`` And that 's certainly the way the UK side is approaching it . ''
Mr Raab said the government would `` probably '' need a yes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal is possible by Sunday .
But he warned the UK would not concede on so-called level playing field provisions or fisheries - the two most contentious issues - over the next few days .
`` We will leave no stone unturned , we would like a free trade deal with the EU , '' the foreign secretary added .
`` But we 're not going to sacrifice the basic points of democratic principle on fisheries or on control of our laws as we leave the transition period .
`` I think it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU side and , if they do , I think the scope for a deal is still there to be done . ''
Prior to his trip to Brussels on Wednesday , the prime minister had told MPs the EU wanted the `` automatic right '' to punish the UK in the future , if it does not comply with new EU laws .
He also suggested the EU wanted to keep control of fishing rights in UK waters beyond the end of the Brexit transition period on 31 December .
Mr Raab @ @ @ @ @ @ @ basic points of principle that no other country in the world would accept in dealing with the EU or anyone else as an independent state '' .
He said : `` The concept the UK would leave the transition period as an independent coastal state but without control of our fisheries ; that 's something that no country in the world has accepted , or is in the position of - why would the UK ?
`` Likewise , when we leave , we should be in control of our laws .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the EU 's own free trade agreements , whether it 's South Korea or Canada .
`` What we 're not going to do is allow the EU , undemocratically , to control our laws in this country . ''

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has given EU and UK negotiators three days to strike a trade deal as she declared: "We will take a decision on Sunday."
Speaking at the start of an EU leaders' summit in Brussels, Ms von der Leyen spoke of her "long conversation" with Prime Minister Boris Johnson over their three-hour dinner on Wednesday night.
Despite the two leaders ordering their chief negotiators to resume talks over the next few days, Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen also both agreed that trade talks remained "very difficult" and there are still "major differences between the two sides".
Image: Boris Johnson, Michel Barnier and Ursula von der Leyen met in Brussels on Wednesday. Pic: Andrew Parsons/10 Downing St
Lord Frost, the UK's chief negotiator, has remained in Brussels following Wednesday's dinner to continue talks with his EU counterpart, Michel Barnier.
"It was a good conversation but it is difficult," Ms von der Leyen said of her dinner with Mr Johnson, as EU leaders began to gather on Thursday to discuss the current state of post-Brexit trade talks.
"We are willing to grant access to the single market to our British friends - it's the largest single market in the world - but the conditions have to be fair.
"They have to be fair for our workers and for our companies and this fine balance of fairness has not been achieved so far.
"Our negotiators are still working and we will take a decision on Sunday."
Ms von der Leyen spoke shortly after presenting an offer to the UK for a series of short-term mini-deals - for planes, lorries and fishing boats - should there be no full trade deal between the two sides by 1 January.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:35 Sunday last chance for deal, Raab says
European Council President Charles Michel said EU leaders would be briefed on the Brexit negotiations at the Brussels summit, but would not have a "long debate" on it.
"We will defend our European interests," he added.
Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin said that a trade deal was "within reach" ahead of "one final effort".
He added: "97% of this is agreed. Are we saying we are going to lose out on a deal because of 3%?"
Earlier, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab told Sky News that Sunday will be a "point of finality" for Brexit trade talks if the EU does not "move substantially" in negotiations.
Mr Raab suggested Sunday was now being treated as a hard deadline by the UK government - by which to decide whether a free trade agreement is still possible.
"I think we view it as a point when we need some finality," he said.
"I'm just a bit reticent ever to say - you can never say never with these EU negotiations.
"Of course, it depends if the EU moves. If the EU moves substantially and actually we're only dotting a few Is or crossing a few Ts, it might be different.
"But I think without movement on the crucial two, three areas that I've described, I think that will be a point of finality.
"And that's certainly the way the UK side is approaching it."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:33 PM meets Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels
Mr Raab said the government would "probably" need a yes or no answer on whether a trade deal is possible by Sunday.
But he warned the UK would not concede on so-called level playing field provisions or fisheries - the two most contentious issues - over the next few days.
"We will leave no stone unturned, we would like a free trade deal with the EU," the foreign secretary added.
"But we're not going to sacrifice the basic points of democratic principle on fisheries or on control of our laws as we leave the transition period.
"I think it's important that's recognised on the EU side and, if they do, I think the scope for a deal is still there to be done."
Prior to his trip to Brussels on Wednesday, the prime minister had told MPs the EU wanted the "automatic right" to punish the UK in the future, if it does not comply with new EU laws.
He also suggested the EU wanted to keep control of fishing rights in UK waters beyond the end of the Brexit transition period on 31 December.
Mr Raab called on Brussels to recognise "two basic points of principle that no other country in the world would accept in dealing with the EU or anyone else as an independent state".
He said: "The concept the UK would leave the transition period as an independent coastal state but without control of our fisheries; that's something that no country in the world has accepted, or is in the position of - why would the UK?
"Likewise, when we leave, we should be in control of our laws.
"We'll accept the kind of requirements in the EU's own free trade agreements, whether it's South Korea or Canada.
"What we're not going to do is allow the EU, undemocratically, to control our laws in this country."


skynewspolitics--2020-12-10--Liverpool mayor Joe Anderson says he will step down following arrest

The mayor of Liverpool has announced he will step down after he was arrested on suspicion of witness intimidation and bribery .
Joe Anderson , 62 , said in a statement he would `` step away from decision-making within the council through a period of unpaid leave '' .
This is until `` the police make clear their inquiries with the investigation '' , he added .
Mr Anderson was arrested on 4 December alongside four other men as part of an investigation into planning developments in the city .
All five have been released pending further inquiries , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ focus on co-operating with the police '' as he believes `` time will make clear I have no case to answer '' .
His statement continued : `` I have always done what I believe is best for the city , and I am taking the following action with those best intentions in mind .
`` It is important that everyone in Liverpool knows that our leaders are focused on what is most important to the people ; their livelihoods and , with a pandemic still in force , their lives .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is important that the city , and government , are reassured that our city is indeed operating in the correct way .
`` I am , therefore , stepping away from decision-making within the council through a period of unpaid leave , until the police make clear their intentions with the investigation on the 31 December . ''
Deputy mayor Wendy Simon will replace him , he added .
Mr Anderson described his arrest as a `` painful shock for me and my family , following a difficult few months '' .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the Labour Party .
He said he would ensure the city 's approach to the coronavirus pandemic is consistent in his absence after it successfully managed to move down from Tier 3 to Tier 2 last month .
It was the first part of England to be placed under the toughest COVID-19 restrictions , but after getting infection rates down , is now being used as a trial location for mass testing .
Mr Anderson 's brother Bill died of the virus aged 70 in October .

The mayor of Liverpool has announced he will be "stepping away" after he was arrested on suspicion of witness intimidation and bribery.
Joe Anderson said in a statement he would be "stepping away from decision-making within the council through a period of unpaid leave until the police make clear their intentions with the investigation" later this month.
Mr Anderson, 62, was arrested on 4 December alongside four other men as part of an investigation into planning developments in the city.
All five have been released pending further inquiries, with Mr Anderson saying he wants to "focus on co-operating with the police" as he believes "time will make clear I have no case to answer".
His statement said: "I have always done what I believe is best for the city, and I am taking the following action with those best intentions in mind.
Image: Liverpool was the first part of the UK to be put into Tier 3, but managed to get infection rates down
"It is important that everyone in Liverpool knows that our leaders are focused on what is most important to the people; their livelihoods and, with a pandemic still in force, their lives.
"For this reason, I believe it is important that the city, and government, are reassured that our city is indeed operating in the correct way."
Deputy mayor Wendy Simon will replace him, he added.
Mr Anderson described his arrest as a "painful shock for me and my family, following a difficult few months".
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The directly-elected mayor had already been temporarily suspended from the Labour Party.
He said he would ensure the city's approach to the coronavirus pandemic is consistent in his absence after it successfully managed to move down from Tier 3 to Tier 2 last month.
It was the first part of England to be placed under the toughest COVID-19 restrictions, but after getting infection rates down, was used as a trial location for mass testing.
Mr Anderson's brother Bill died of the virus aged 70 in October.


skynewspolitics--2020-12-10--EU risks fresh Brexit fishing row with UK over no-deal contingency plans

The EU has risked provoking a fresh fishing row with the UK over its offer of contingency measures in the event there is no post-Brexit trade deal by 1 January .
Brussels on Thursday offered a series of short-term mini-deals for planes , lorries and fishing boats , should there be no full trade deal between the two sides at the end of the Brexit transition period on 31 December .
Trade negotiations are still deadlocked ahead of that deadline , although Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen agreed at a three-hour dinner on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a final decision this weekend .
Ms von der Leyen on Thursday warned that even if a UK-EU trade deal is reached in the coming days , there is `` no guarantee '' it will be ratified in time for 1 January .
She outlined four areas - air connectivity , aviation safety , basic road connectivity , and fisheries - where short-term agreements could be made in the absence of a trade deal on New Year 's Day .
These would keep planes flying , lorries moving , and allow EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waters in the event of a no-deal outcome .
The EU 's offer includes proposals for new regulations to `` ensure the provision of certain air services between the UK and the EU '' for six months , should the UK ensure the same .
In order to avoid the grounding of EU aircraft , the bloc is also proposing a new law to ensure `` various safety certificates for products can continue to be used in EU aircraft without disruption '' .
In exchange for the UK assuring the same to EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` basic connectivity with regard to both road freight and road passenger transport '' for six months .
And , for fisheries , the EU is proposing a year-long legal framework for `` continued reciprocal access by EU and UK vessels to each other 's waters '' in 2021 .
The bloc said such a framework could end earlier than 31 December next year , should a new fisheries agreement with the UK be concluded prior to that date .
Parts of the mini-deals offered by the EU to the UK contain the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provisions that have been - along with fishing rights - such a contentious aspect of post-Brexit trade negotiations .
Downing Street said it would `` look closely '' at the contingency proposals by the EU , but suggested it could reject the offer on fishing .
The prime minister 's official spokesman said : `` As we 've said throughout the negotiations , once we leave the end of the transition period , we will take back control of our waters .
`` We would never accept arrangements and access to UK fishing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as an independent coastal state . ''
Conservative Brexiteers warned Mr Johnson not to agree to the no-deal contingency plans being offered by the EU .
Conservative MP David Jones - a senior member of the European Research Group of Tory Brexiteers - told Sky News : `` They seem to want access to our fish without giving anything in return .
`` That is not a deal , that is appropriation . ''
Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage accused the EU of a `` huge insult '' over its offer on fishing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ European Commission on fishing is that things carry on the same next year as they have this year , which would mean the French getting 90 % of the haddock quota in the South West .
`` So I think that 's actually a huge insult yet again . ''
The European Commission said the aim of the `` targeted '' contingency measures - to be agreed on a reciprocal basis - is to cater for the period during which there is no trade deal in place .
It added that `` if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will end after a fixed period '' .
`` Negotiations are still ongoing , '' Ms von der Leyen said .
`` However , given that the end of the transition is very near , there is no guarantee that if and when an agreement is found , it can enter into force on time .
`` Our responsibility is to be prepared for all eventualities , including not having a deal in place with the UK on 1 January 2021 .
`` That is why we are coming forward with these measures @ @ @

The EU has risked provoking a fresh fishing row with the UK over its offer of contingency measures in the event there is no post-Brexit trade deal by 1 January.
Brussels on Thursday offered a series of short-term mini-deals for planes, lorries and fishing boats, should there be no full trade deal between the two sides at the end of the Brexit transition period on 31 December.
Trade negotiations are still deadlocked ahead of that deadline, although Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen agreed at a three-hour dinner on Wednesday night that talks should continue ahead of a final decision this weekend.
Image: The EU has offered a six-month period for planes to keep flying
Ms von der Leyen on Thursday warned that even if a UK-EU trade deal is reached in the coming days, there is "no guarantee" it will be ratified in time for 1 January.
She outlined four areas - air connectivity, aviation safety, basic road connectivity, and fisheries - where short-term agreements could be made in the absence of a trade deal on New Year's Day.
These would keep planes flying, lorries moving, and allow EU fishing boats to continue working in UK waters in the event of a no-deal outcome.
However, some Brexiteers reacted with anger at the EU demand for continued fishing access, which has been viewed by some as an apparent trade-off for uninterrupted air and road travel between the UK and the bloc.
Meanwhile, parts of the mini-deals offered by the EU to the UK contain the same demands for so-called level playing field provisions that have been - along with fishing rights - such a contentious aspect of post-Brexit trade negotiations.
The EU's offer includes proposals for new regulations to "ensure the provision of certain air services between the UK and the EU" for six months, should the UK ensure the same.
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In order to avoid the grounding of EU aircraft, the bloc is also proposing a new law to ensure "various safety certificates for products can continue to be used in EU aircraft without disruption".
In exchange for the UK assuring the same to EU hauliers, Brussels is offering legislation covering "basic connectivity with regard to both road freight and road passenger transport" for six months.
And, for fisheries, the EU is proposing a year-long legal framework for "continued reciprocal access by EU and UK vessels to each other's waters" in 2021.
The bloc said such a framework could end earlier than 31 December next year, should a new fisheries agreement with the UK be concluded prior to that date.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:40 EU chief: Brexit trade talks 'difficult'
Downing Street said it would "look closely" at the contingency proposals by the EU, but suggested it could reject the offer on fishing.
The prime minister's official spokesman said: "As we've said throughout the negotiations, once we leave the end of the transition period, we will take back control of our waters.
"We would never accept arrangements and access to UK fishing waters which are incompatible with our status as an independent coastal state."
Conservative Brexiteers warned Mr Johnson not to agree to the no-deal contingency plans being offered by the EU.
Tory MP David Jones - a senior member of the European Research Group of Tory Brexiteers - told Sky News: "They seem to want access to our fish without giving anything in return.
"That is not a deal, that is appropriation."
Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage accused the EU of a "huge insult" over its offer on fishing.
"The contingency planning from the European Commission on fishing is that things carry on the same next year as they have this year, which would mean the French getting 90% of the haddock quota in the South West.
"So I think that's actually a huge insult yet again."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:35 Sunday last chance for deal, Raab says
The European Commission said the aim of the "targeted" contingency measures - to be agreed on a reciprocal basis - is to cater for the period during which there is no trade deal in place.
It added that "if no agreement enters into application, they will end after a fixed period".
"Negotiations are still ongoing," Ms von der Leyen said.
"However, given that the end of the transition is very near, there is no guarantee that if and when an agreement is found, it can enter into force on time.
"Our responsibility is to be prepared for all eventualities, including not having a deal in place with the UK on 1 January 2021.
"That is why we are coming forward with these measures today."


skynewspolitics--2020-12-10--UK and Singapore sign £17.6bn free trade deal

The UK has signed a free trade deal with Singapore worth £17.6bn .
The deal - the latest in a series of agreements the government is trying to broker around the globe - is the second biggest agreement Britain has signed in the Asia-Pacific region , International Trade Secretary Liz Truss said .
The agreement was signed by Ms Truss and Singapore 's trade minister Chan Chun Sing at a ceremony in the Southeast Asian city-state .
Ms Truss said the pact with Singapore `` secures certainty '' for business , would mean `` deeper future ties in digital and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further proof we can succeed as an independent trading nation '' .
It effectively mirrors the agreement Singapore already has in place with the EU , meaning trade should continue as normal from 1 January .
It follows the UK and Canada reaching a similar deal last month to also continue trading under the same terms as the current EU agreement after the Brexit transition period ends .
Another rollover deal with Vietnam is also expected to be signed soon .
Meanwhile , UK and EU negotiators have begun a final push to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after Downing Street warned the gaps between the two sides remain `` very large '' .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen held crunch talks over dinner in Brussels on Wednesday aimed at breaking the deadlock , yet key differences prevail .

The UK has signed a free trade deal with Singapore worth £17.6bn.
The deal - the latest in a series of agreements the government is trying to broker around the globe - is the second biggest agreement Britain has signed in the Asia-Pacific region, International Trade Secretary Liz Truss said.
The agreement was signed by Ms Truss and Singapore's trade minister Chan Chun Sing at a ceremony in the Southeast Asian city-state.
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Ms Truss said the pact with Singapore "secures certainty" for business, would mean "deeper future ties in digital and services trade", and was "further proof we can succeed as an independent trading nation".
It effectively mirrors the agreement Singapore already has in place with the EU, meaning trade should continue as normal from 1 January.
It follows the UK and Canada reaching a similar deal last month to also continue trading under the same terms as the current EU agreement after the Brexit transition period ends.
Another rollover deal with Vietnam is also expected to be signed soon.
Meanwhile, UK and EU negotiators have begun a final push to salvage chances of a post-Brexit trade deal after Downing Street warned the gaps between the two sides remain "very large".
Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen held crunch talks over dinner in Brussels on Wednesday aimed at breaking the deadlock, yet key differences prevail.


skynewspolitics--2020-11-18--It's not all about EU: Which countries has the UK signed post-Brexit trade deals with?

Singapore has become the latest country the UK has agreed a trade deal with ahead of the Brexit transition period @ @ @ @ @ 2021 , EU trade agreements will no longer apply in the UK .
The British @ @ @ @ @ a deal with the EU , but has warned if they can not come to @ @ @ @ @ the bloc will be on World Trade Organisation ( WTO ) terms .
This will @ @ @ @ @ country the UK has not signed a deal with by the beginning of 2021 .
@ @ @ @ @ countries the UK has managed to sign deals with and they will come into effect @ @ @ @ @ These are the countries and trading blocs the UK has agreements with , so far @ @ @ @ @ kept updated so please return to find out which countries the UK has agreed trade @ @ @

The UK has continued to agree trade deals with a variety of countries now it is no longer in the European Union.
From 1 January 2021, EU trade agreements no longer applied in the UK.
The government signed a post-Brexit trade deal with the EU after tight negotiations at the end of 2020, and has continued to strike a series of fresh agreements with non-EU countries.
Most of these will ensure the UK continues the trading arrangements it enjoyed with those countries as an EU member state.
These are the countries and trading blocs the UK has agreements with, so far:
This table will be kept updated so please return to find out which countries the UK has agreed trade deals with.


skynewspolitics--2020-12-10--Britons could be banned from travelling to Europe due to COVID rules from 1 January

Travel from the UK to the European mainland could be disrupted as a result of coronavirus restrictions once the Brexit transition period ends , the foreign secretary has said .
The UK will no longer be part of the European Union 's free movement rules after 1 January .
Just a small number of countries with low COVID-19 rates are exempt from rules that bar non-essential visitors from outside the EU and European Economic Area ( EEA ) .
These include Australia , New Zealand and South Korea - but an EU Commission spokesman last week said there were no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` This is a decision for the council ( European Council ) to make , '' he said .
Questioned on the report in the Financial Times , Dominic Raab told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme on Thursday : `` COVID restrictions will depend on the combination of what the EU decides , but also member states .
`` We have already got challenges with that and we have put our own restrictions in place . ''
He acknowledged that coronavirus `` remains a live issue and we need to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
`` I 'm afraid restriction on travel , inevitably , is going to be something that is kept under review . ''
Asked whether that would mean Britons will find it difficult to go to the European mainland , he said : `` It all depends on the prevalence of the virus in those continental European countries . ''
A statement issued earlier by a government spokeswoman said : `` We take a scientific , risk-based approach to health measures at the border , and it is of course in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ international travel as we emerge from the pandemic . ''
Paul Charles , chief executive of travel consultancy the PC Agency , said : `` I can not believe that EU countries who rely on the spending power of UK business and leisure travellers will seek to block entry after 1 January .
`` Cool heads need to prevail at this politically difficult time as travel and tourism is such a key contributor to economic growth in Europe .
`` I 'm sure that individual countries who need UK tourism will be sensible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ entry .
It is so important now for countries to work together globally to create a consistent approach . ''
It comes amid months of deadlock in Brexit trade deal talks with both the EU and the UK failing to reach an agreement .
After a three-hour dinner on Wednesday night , Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen agreed negotiations remain `` very difficult '' and there are still `` major differences between the two sides '' .
However , a deadline has been set for Sunday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be a `` point of finality '' if the EU does not `` move substantially '' in negotiations .

Travel from the UK to the European mainland could be disrupted as a result of coronavirus restrictions once the Brexit transition period ends, the foreign secretary has said.
The UK will no longer be part of the European Union's free movement rules after 1 January.
Just a small number of countries with low COVID-19 rates are exempt from rules that bar non-essential visitors from outside the EU and European Economic Area (EEA).
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:35 Sunday last chance for deal, Raab says
These include Australia, New Zealand and South Korea - but an EU Commission spokesman last week said there were no plans to extend that to the UK. "This is a decision for the council (European Council) to make," he said.
Questioned on the report in the Financial Times, Dominic Raab told BBC Radio 4's Today programme on Thursday: "COVID restrictions will depend on the combination of what the EU decides, but also member states.
"We have already got challenges with that and we have put our own restrictions in place."
He acknowledged that coronavirus "remains a live issue and we need to make sure we have got control of it".
"I'm afraid restriction on travel, inevitably, is going to be something that is kept under review."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:09 'Very large gaps' remain in Brexit talks
Asked whether that would mean Britons will find it difficult to go to the European mainland, he said: "It all depends on the prevalence of the virus in those continental European countries."
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A government spokesperson said: "We cannot comment on decisions that could be taken by other states on public health matters.
"We take a scientific, risk-based approach to health measures at the border, and it is of course in the interests of all countries to allow safe international travel as we emerge from the pandemic."
Paul Charles, chief executive of travel consultancy the PC Agency, said: "I cannot believe that EU countries who rely on the spending power of UK business and leisure travellers will seek to block entry after 1 January.
"Cool heads need to prevail at this politically difficult time as travel and tourism is such a key contributor to economic growth in Europe.
"I'm sure that individual countries who need UK tourism will be sensible and override any EU-bloc decision which prevents entry. It is so important now for countries to work together globally to create a consistent approach."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:24 'I'll take Commons up to Xmas Eve if necessary'
It comes amid months of deadlock in Brexit trade deal talks with both the EU and the UK failing to reach an agreement.
After a three-hour dinner on Wednesday night, Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen agreed negotiations remain "very difficult" and there are still "major differences between the two sides".
However, a deadline has been set for Sunday, which Mr Raab told Sky News will be a "point of finality" if the EU does not "move substantially" in negotiations.


skynewspolitics--2020-12-10--PM accused of a 'failure of diplomacy and leadership' as no-deal Brexit looms large

Boris Johnson is being accused of failure after his hopes of a Brexit meal deal in Brussels were dashed and trade talks went into extra time with a new deadline of Sunday .
His three-hour dinner with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen ended in deadlock with `` very large gaps '' between the two sides , according to Downing Street .
Ms von der Leyen , who described the talks as `` lively and interesting '' said the two sides `` remain far apart '' , a damning verdict that suggests a no-deal Brexit looks increasingly likely .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ now face MPs in a potentially heated Commons showdown , with opposition parties condemning the threat of no deal but Tory Brexiteers relishing it .
Labour is claiming that a year after Mr Johnson promised an `` oven-ready deal '' he has failed to deliver what he promised .
The SNP has accused him of `` a failure of diplomacy and leadership '' .
While Mr Gove faces MPs , Ms von der Leyen will brief the EU 's 27 leaders at a Brussels summit and the Brexit negotiators Lord Frost and Michel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The deadlock at dinner came after the PM dashed to Brussels for talks which were billed as a make-or-break attempt to salvage a Brexit deal after months of discussions between Lord Frost and Mr Barnier ended in stalemate .
But the three-course dinner failed to achieve the breakthrough hoped for by both sides and even the menu chosen by Mr Johnson 's EU hosts pointed to a no-deal Brexit looming ahead .
In a move that was either intended to be provocative or reveal a sense of humour , given the clash @ @ @ @ @ @ @ served scallops as a starter and turbot for the main course .
Even the choice of dessert - pavlova , a dish which it is claimed originated in Australia - hinted at a no-deal outcome , since Mr Johnson has often spoken of leaving the EU on Australian trade terms , meaning no deal .
The meeting got off to a bad start as the two leaders posed for the cameras ahead of the dinner .
Ms von der Leyen told Mr Johnson to keep his distance as they briefly took their face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prime Minister to put his mask back on , to which Mr Johnson responded : `` You run a tight ship here , Ursula , and quite right too . ''
Three hours later , in a statement issued immediately after the dinner , a No .
10 source said : `` The PM and VDL had a frank discussion about the significant obstacles which remain in the negotiations .
`` Very large gaps remain between the two sides and it is still unclear whether these can be bridged .
`` The PM @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the next few days between their negotiating teams .
`` The PM does not want to leave any route to a possible deal untested .
The PM and VDL agreed that by Sunday a firm decision should be taken about the future of the talks . ''
In a further statement an hour later , a Downing Street spokesman added : `` They acknowledged that the situation remained very difficult and there were still major differences between the two sides .
`` The prime minister is determined not to leave any route to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreement must respect the independence and sovereignty of the UK . ''
In her statement , Ms von der Leyen said : `` We had a lively and interesting discussion on the state of play across the list of outstanding issues .
`` We gained a clear understanding of each other 's positions .
They remain far apart .
`` We agreed that the teams should immediately reconvene to try to resolve these essential issues .
We will come to a decision by the end of the weekend . ''
Reacting to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rayner tweeted : `` One year after Boris Johnson promised us an oven-ready deal he has completely failed .
`` The failure to deliver the deal he promised is his and his alone . ''
Shadow Cabinet Office minister Rachel Reeves , whose urgent question is being answered by Mr Gove in the Commons , said : `` The Prime Minister promised an oven-ready deal .
`` He needs to get it done so we can focus on what matters to the British people : securing our economy , protecting our NHS and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ SNP 's Westminster leader Ian Blackford tweeted : `` A no deal would be a massive failure of diplomacy and leadership which @ BorisJohnson has to take ownership of .
`` On top of the health & economic impact of Covid this is self-induced self harm .
Disruption to trade , tariffs , higher prices and lost jobs is never a price worth paying . ''
Analysis : EU 's patience with the UK has all but evaporated And so now we have a deadline that feels pretty firm .
Putting the finishing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will focus some attention when EU leaders gather in Brussels for their latest meeting , and may push negotiators to make one last throw of the dice .
But it might go nowhere .
For months now , the negotiating teams have been talking with ever more intensity - and they have achieved very little .
Without significant compromises , on both sides , it 's hard to see how a breakthrough will emerge .
The EU has already started to gear up for no deal , and those preparations are now going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it will be better to negotiate once the effects of no deal have been seen ; others are genuinely upset - fond of the UK and worried that rancour will follow .
But everyone is weary of talks that have meandered endlessly down a variety of cul-de-sacs .
The EU is presently split by arguments over its budget , COVID-19 , the rule of law and foreign policy .
Over the past 10 months or so , Brexit has taken up a lot of time without ever being top of the agenda .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK left with a deal - but the EU thinks the compromises need to come mostly from Westminster - and the patience to wait for them has all but evaporated .

Boris Johnson is being accused of failure after his hopes of a Brexit meal deal in Brussels were dashed and trade talks went into extra time with a new deadline of Sunday.
His three-hour dinner with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen ended in deadlock with "very large gaps" between the two sides, according to Downing Street.
Ms von der Leyen, who described the talks as "lively and interesting" said the two sides "remain far apart", a damning verdict that suggests a no-deal Brexit looks increasingly likely.
The Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove will now face MPs in a potentially heated Commons showdown, with opposition parties condemning the threat of no deal but Tory Brexiteers relishing it.
Labour is claiming that a year after Mr Johnson promised an "oven-ready deal" he has failed to deliver what he promised. The SNP has accused him of "a failure of diplomacy and leadership".
While Mr Gove faces MPs, Ms von der Leyen will brief the EU's 27 leaders at a Brussels summit and the Brexit negotiators Lord Frost and Michel Barnier will resume their talks once again.
Image: Ms von der Leyen said 'very large gaps' remain between the two sides
The deadlock at dinner came after the PM dashed to Brussels for talks which were billed as a make-or-break attempt to salvage a Brexit deal after months of discussions between Lord Frost and Mr Barnier ended in stalemate.
But the three-course dinner failed to achieve the breakthrough hoped for by both sides and even the menu chosen by Mr Johnson's EU hosts pointed to a no-deal Brexit looming ahead.
In a move that was either intended to be provocative or reveal a sense of humour, given the clash over fishing rights, Mr Johnson was served scallops as a starter and turbot for the main course.
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Even the choice of dessert - pavlova, a dish which it is claimed originated in Australia - hinted at a no-deal outcome, since Mr Johnson has often spoken of leaving the EU on Australian trade terms, meaning no deal.
The meeting got off to a bad start as the two leaders posed for the cameras ahead of the dinner. Ms von der Leyen told Mr Johnson to keep his distance as they briefly took their face coverings off.
She then told the Prime Minister to put his mask back on, to which Mr Johnson responded: "You run a tight ship here, Ursula, and quite right too."
Three hours later, in a statement issued immediately after the dinner, a No. 10 source said: "The PM and VDL had a frank discussion about the significant obstacles which remain in the negotiations.
"Very large gaps remain between the two sides and it is still unclear whether these can be bridged.
"The PM and VDL agreed to further discussions over the next few days between their negotiating teams.
"The PM does not want to leave any route to a possible deal untested. The PM and VDL agreed that by Sunday a firm decision should be taken about the future of the talks."
In a further statement an hour later, a Downing Street spokesman added: "They acknowledged that the situation remained very difficult and there were still major differences between the two sides.
"The prime minister is determined not to leave any route to a fair deal untested, but any agreement must respect the independence and sovereignty of the UK."
In her statement, Ms von der Leyen said: "We had a lively and interesting discussion on the state of play across the list of outstanding issues.
"We gained a clear understanding of each other's positions. They remain far apart.
"We agreed that the teams should immediately reconvene to try to resolve these essential issues. We will come to a decision by the end of the weekend."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:24 'I'll take Commons up to Xmas Eve if necessary'
Reacting to the deadlock, Labour's deputy leader Angela Rayner tweeted: "One year after Boris Johnson promised us an oven-ready deal he has completely failed.
"The failure to deliver the deal he promised is his and his alone."
Shadow Cabinet Office minister Rachel Reeves, whose urgent question is being answered by Mr Gove in the Commons, said: "The Prime Minister promised an oven-ready deal.
"He needs to get it done so we can focus on what matters to the British people: securing our economy, protecting our NHS and rebuilding our country."
And the SNP's Westminster leader Ian Blackford tweeted: "A no deal would be a massive failure of diplomacy and leadership which @BorisJohnson has to take ownership of.
"On top of the health & economic impact of Covid this is self-induced self harm. Disruption to trade, tariffs, higher prices and lost jobs is never a price worth paying."
Analysis: EU's patience with the UK has all but evaporated
By Adam Parsons, Europe correspondent
And so now we have a deadline that feels pretty firm. Putting the finishing line at the end of this weekend will focus some attention when EU leaders gather in Brussels for their latest meeting, and may push negotiators to make one last throw of the dice.
But it might go nowhere. For months now, the negotiating teams have been talking with ever more intensity - and they have achieved very little. Without significant compromises, on both sides, it's hard to see how a breakthrough will emerge.
The EU has already started to gear up for no deal, and those preparations are now going to gather momentum.
Some believe that it will be better to negotiate once the effects of no deal have been seen; others are genuinely upset - fond of the UK and worried that rancour will follow.
But everyone is weary of talks that have meandered endlessly down a variety of cul-de-sacs. The EU is presently split by arguments over its budget, COVID-19, the rule of law and foreign policy. Over the past 10 months or so, Brexit has taken up a lot of time without ever being top of the agenda.
Every European country would rather that the UK left with a deal - but the EU thinks the compromises need to come mostly from Westminster - and the patience to wait for them has all but evaporated.


skynewspolitics--2020-12-11--PM's warning to EU leaders reveals the biggest sticking point in Brexit negotiations

Boris Johnson did not have a UK audience in mind when he made his stark warning that an exit from the European Union without a trade deal is almost upon us .
Despite securing almost a clean sweep of Friday newspaper front pages , the intended recipients of the message were the 27 EU leaders sitting down for dinner in Brussels not long after the short interview was released .
So for good measure , British diplomats made sure the EU 27 were aware it was coming - and alert to its contents in good time for the European Council @ @ @ @ @ @ @ safe side .
The intent of issuing that message ahead of the EU dinner was not just a battle cry to underline his seriousness about no deal if necessary , despite the EU 's resolute belief the outcome will hurt Britain more than them .
It was also because the prime minister wanted to make crystal clear to all EU leaders directly the single biggest sticking point in the negotiation , which has frozen the talks for the last week .
The biggest obstacle is the EU 's demand the UK match future @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it does not , it will face automatic punishment in the form of tariffs .
This , Mr Johnson told MPs on Wednesday , would represent an unacceptable infringement on newfound UK sovereignty , tying us forever to as yet unconceived - possibly deliberately damaging - EU rules on workers ' rights , the environment , subsidies and even taxation .
This , he declared , was a demand no prime minister could sign up to and has evolved into representing Mr Johnson 's definition of sovereignty .
Even the most pro-Remain Tory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ acceptable red line they will support .
So if not that , what could the prime minister sign up to ?
One of the key problems for Britain is simply the concept that punishment might follow automatically from a failure to follow EU rule .
However , if it were not up to the EU but an independent review body to determine whether the UK has diverged too much , then would this be enough of a concession ?
Downing Street will not comment but critically does not reject this .
: : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Another key question for Britain is how to work out which rules matter and which do n't , given the sheer volume of EU legislation passed every year .
Does an independent body measure the significance of the rule change by this scope ?
Or its impact ?
Number 10 is reluctant to be drawn on the specifics of what the problem looks like .
These issues once might have felt like classic territory for possible negotiation and time is incredibly tight .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , perhaps one of Boris Johnson 's last major remaining cards to try and shift the EU 27 , will move far enough or quickly enough .

Boris Johnson did not have a UK audience in mind when he made his stark warning that an exit from the European Union without a trade deal is almost upon us.
Despite securing almost a clean sweep of Friday newspaper front pages, the intended recipients of the message were the 27 EU leaders sitting down for dinner in Brussels not long after the short interview was released.
So for good measure, British diplomats made sure the EU 27 were aware it was coming - and alert to its contents in good time for the European Council dinner - just to be on the safe side.
The intent of issuing that message ahead of the EU dinner was not just a battle cry to underline his seriousness about no deal if necessary, despite the EU's resolute belief the outcome will hurt Britain more than them.
It was also because the prime minister wanted to make crystal clear to all EU leaders directly the single biggest sticking point in the negotiation, which has frozen the talks for the last week.
The biggest obstacle is the EU's demand the UK match future rules to ensure fair competition.
If it does not, it will face automatic punishment in the form of tariffs.
This, Mr Johnson told MPs on Wednesday, would represent an unacceptable infringement on newfound UK sovereignty, tying us forever to as yet unconceived - possibly deliberately damaging - EU rules on workers' rights, the environment, subsidies and even taxation.
This, he declared, was a demand no prime minister could sign up to and has evolved into representing Mr Johnson's definition of sovereignty.
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Even the most pro-Remain Tory MPs in parliament see this as an acceptable red line they will support.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:29 Brexit Explained: What are the sticking points?
So if not that, what could the prime minister sign up to?
One of the key problems for Britain is simply the concept that punishment might follow automatically from a failure to follow EU rule.
However, if it were not up to the EU but an independent review body to determine whether the UK has diverged too much, then would this be enough of a concession?
Downing Street will not comment but critically does not reject this.
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Another key question for Britain is how to work out which rules matter and which don't, given the sheer volume of EU legislation passed every year.
Does an independent body measure the significance of the rule change by this scope? Or its impact?
Number 10 is reluctant to be drawn on the specifics of what the problem looks like.
These issues once might have felt like classic territory for possible negotiation and time is incredibly tight.
It is not clear that the TV interview, perhaps one of Boris Johnson's last major remaining cards to try and shift the EU 27, will move far enough or quickly enough.


skynewspolitics--2020-12-10--'Strong possibility' of no trade deal with EU, Boris Johnson warns

There is a `` strong possibility '' no post-Brexit trade deal will be struck with the EU , Boris Johnson has warned .
The prime minister told British citizens and businesses to `` make proper preparations '' for the scenario , which would come into effect on 1 January 2021 .
He added that Brussels ' current offer `` is n't right for the UK '' and that a no-deal divorce - what he described as a trading relationship like the one Australia has with the EU - would still be `` very good '' .
The stakes were raised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the transition period - due to end in a few weeks .
A showdown between Mr Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday failed to break the deadlock .
Both leaders have set Sunday as the deadline to decide if talks should fold or continue .
In a short interview from Downing Street on Thursday , the prime minister vowed to `` keep going '' and `` go the extra mile '' in pursuit of an agreement .
`` The UK has been incredibly flexible , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to make progress on all sorts of things . ''
But he continued : `` I do think that we need to be very very clear .
`` There 's now a strong possibility , a strong possibility that we will have a solution that 's much-more like an Australian relationship with the EU than a Canadian relationship [ trade deal ] with the EU .
`` That does n't mean it 's a bad thing , there are plenty of ways that we can turn that to the advantage of both sides @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the time for the public and for businesses to get ready for 1 January - because believe me there 's going to be change either way . ''
Mr Johnson identified the two major remaining issues as fishing and the EU 's bid to get the UK to sign up to its business competition demands known as the `` level playing field '' .
Earlier , Ms von der Leyen said : `` We are willing to grant access to the single market to our British friends - it 's the largest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the conditions have to be fair .
`` They have to be fair for our workers and for our companies and this fine balance of fairness has not been achieved so far . ''
The UK left the EU on 31 January , but has continued to follow most of the bloc 's rules to give negotiators time to try and strike a trade deal while limiting disruption for businesses and travellers .

There is a "strong possibility" no post-Brexit trade deal will be struck with the EU, Boris Johnson has warned.
The prime minister told British citizens and businesses to "make proper preparations" for the scenario, which would come into effect on 1 January 2021.
He added that Brussels' current offer "isn't right for the UK" and that a no-deal divorce - what he described as a trading relationship like the one Australia has with the EU - would still be "very good".
Image: The PM and Ms von der Leyen have set a deadline of Sunday
The stakes were raised as negotiations go right to the brink of the transition period - due to end in a few weeks.
A showdown between Mr Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday failed to break the deadlock.
Both leaders have set Sunday as the deadline to decide if talks should fold or continue.
In a short interview from Downing Street on Thursday, the prime minister vowed to "keep going" and "go the extra mile" in pursuit of an agreement.
"The UK has been incredibly flexible," he said. "We tried very hard to make progress on all sorts of things."
But he continued: "I do think that we need to be very very clear.
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"There's now a strong possibility, a strong possibility that we will have a solution that's much-more like an Australian relationship with the EU than a Canadian relationship [trade deal] with the EU.
"That doesn't mean it's a bad thing, there are plenty of ways that we can turn that to the advantage of both sides."
He added: "Now is the time for the public and for businesses to get ready for 1 January - because believe me there's going to be change either way."
Mr Johnson identified the two major remaining issues as fishing and the EU's bid to get the UK to sign up to its business competition demands known as the "level playing field".
Earlier, Ms von der Leyen said: "We are willing to grant access to the single market to our British friends - it's the largest single market in the world - but the conditions have to be fair.
"They have to be fair for our workers and for our companies and this fine balance of fairness has not been achieved so far."
The UK left the EU on 31 January, but has continued to follow most of the bloc's rules to give negotiators time to try and strike a trade deal while limiting disruption for businesses and travellers.


skynewspolitics--2020-12-10--No matter how talks with the EU go, there are going to be some big changes for Britons on 1 January

The Brexit transition period is set to end on 1 January - with or without a future trade deal with the EU - but some changes will happen regardless of the outcome of trade negotiations .
The government is warning Britons that travel to the EU , Switzerland , Norway , Iceland and Liechtenstein will change from 1 January .
Those planning trips in 2021 are being urged to check their passports - as from 1 January onwards , British travellers will need at least six months left on their passports .
Their passports will also need to be less @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it has six months or more left .
Without renewing their passport , they may not be able to travel to most EU countries .
Currently , British travellers to the EU only need their passports to be valid for the proposed duration of their stay .
From New Year 's Day , UK nationals arriving at EU border controls might also need to show a return or onward ticket , show they have enough money for their stay , and use separate lanes from EU citizens when queuing .
Those planning to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 90 days may need to apply for a visa or permit .
At present , it is still unclear whether British travellers will be barred from visiting EU countries from 1 January due to the bloc 's COVID-19 restrictions .
Non-essential travel is currently only allowed into the EU from a very limited number of non-EU countries who have low coronavirus infection rates .
Once the Brexit transition period ends , rules permitting free travel within the bloc cease to apply to Britons .
And UK citizens will not be able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them - apart from some exceptions such as powdered infant milk - into EU countries from 1 January .
Getting healthcare while you 're there Britons planning trips in 2021 are also being urged to get appropriate travel insurance - with healthcare cover - before heading abroad .
This is because , beyond 31 December , the European Health Insurance Card ( EHIC ) will no longer be valid for most people .
An EHIC card currently gives UK nationals the right to access state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay in an EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or Switzerland .
The government has warned it is particularly important to get travel insurance with the right healthcare cover for those with a pre-existing medical condition .
This is because the EHIC scheme covers pre-existing conditions , but many travel insurance policies do not .
Only those living in EU countries will be able to hold new UK-issued EHIC cards from 1 January .
However , those who are making visits to the EU that start in 2020 and end in 2021 will have their EHIC entitlements continued until they either return @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country .
Currently , a prescription made out by a UK doctor is valid in all EU countries .
This may no longer be the case beyond 31 December .
Those wanting to drive in the EU might need an international driving permit ( IDP ) from 1 January .
This can be bought from the Post Office for £5.50 , while the type of IDP needed will depend on the countries driven through .
However , you will not need an IDP to drive when visiting Ireland - as long as you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 31 December , Britons do not need an IDP to drive in any EU - as well as Iceland , Liechtenstein , Norway and Switzerland - for stays of up to 12 months .
Britons are also being advised they should carry a `` green card '' - which is proof of motor insurance - when driving in the EU , including in Ireland , from 1 January .
These can be obtained from insurance providers six weeks before travel .
Drivers will need to have multiple green cards in these instances : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ each vehicle • For towing a trailer or caravan - one for the towing vehicle and one for the trailer or caravan • If they have more than one policy covering the duration of their trip Until 31 December , Britons can take their cats , dogs and ferrets to EU countries with them - and return to the UK again - if a number of conditions are met .
These include having a pet passport , having your pet microchipped , owning a pet passport , and having your pet vaccinated against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it is unclear what rules will apply to Britons taking their pets abroad to the EU , meaning pet passports could no longer be valid .
The UK has applied to the EU to be a listed country which - depending on whether Part 1 or Part 2 listed status is granted - could see very similar requirements as currently needed .
However , if the UK becomes an unlisted country , there will be extra requirements such as needing a pet 's blood sample to be sent to an EU-approved testing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ date a successful blood sample was taken before travelling .
Using your mobile phone while in the EU Currently , there are no extra charges for data roaming on mobile phones when Britons travel to an EU country .
However , this could change from 1 January depending on the terms of the UK 's future relationship with the EU .
This would include employees of UK companies travelling in the EU for business .
Some mobile operators - Three , EE , O2 and Vodafone - have said they have no current @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next year .
Meanwhile , the government has legislated to protect Britons from unexpected charges from 1 January , with a £45 per month limit on mobile data usage charges while abroad .
This means Britons can not continue to use mobile data services when roaming unless they actively choose to continue spending .
Legislation also ensures that consumers will continue to receive alerts when they are at 80 % and 100 % data usage .
Mobile operators also have to ensure they continue to make information available to their customers in Northern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in border regions from 1 January .
Operators will be required to take reasonable steps to protect their customers from paying roaming charges for inadvertently accessing roaming services .
From 1 January , the UK 's new points-based immigration system will come into force .
Unlike currently , EU nationals will be treated the same as non-EU citizens and will have to apply for visas to live , work or study in the UK .
Irish citizens will continue to be able to enter and live in the UK as they do now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visa to enter the UK when visiting the UK for up to six months .
Those EU nationals already living in the UK , as well as those from Iceland , Liechtenstein , Norway or Switzerland , need to apply to continue living in the UK after 31 December under the settled status scheme .

The Brexit transition period is coming to an end after a UK-EU trade deal was agreed - this is what will change from 1 January.
Visiting the EU
The government is warning Britons that travel to the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein will change from 1 January.
Those planning trips in 2021 are being urged to check their passports - as from 1 January onwards, British travellers will need at least six months left on their passports.
Their passports will also need to be less than 10 years old, even if they have six months or more left.
Without renewing their passport, they may not be able to travel to most EU countries.
Currently, British travellers to the EU only need their passports to be valid for the proposed duration of their stay.
From New Year's Day, UK nationals arriving at EU border controls might also need to show a return or onward ticket, show they have enough money for their stay, and use separate lanes from EU citizens when queuing.
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Those planning to stay in an EU country for longer than 90 days may need to apply for a visa or permit.
However, the European Commission has recommended that EU member states discourage all non-essential travel to and from the UK until further notice due to the emergence of a new COVID-19 variant that was first detected in the UK.
Once the Brexit transition period ends, rules permitting free travel within the bloc cease to apply to Britons.
And UK citizens will not be able to take meat, milk or products containing them - apart from some exceptions such as powdered infant milk - into EU countries from 1 January.
Getting healthcare while you're there
Britons planning trips in 2021 are also being urged to get appropriate travel insurance - with healthcare cover - before heading abroad.
But your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) will continue to be valid if you're travelling to an EU country until it expires.
Everyone else - either without an EHIC or with one that has expired, can apply for a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which replaces the EHIC scheme in the UK.
GHICs and most UK EHICs will not cover you in Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland.
So anyone travelling to Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein should get appropriate travel insurance with healthcare cover before travel, which should cover any pre-existing conditions that were previously covered by your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
Some people can apply for a new UK EHIC that they can continue to use from 1 January 2021 in the EU, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland. People who can apply for the new card include:
UK students studying in the EU
some British State Pensioners who live in the EU and their families
EU nationals in the UK
Driving in the EU
Britons are being told they should carry a "green card" - which is proof of motor insurance - when taking their own car to the EU, including in Ireland, from 1 January.
These can be obtained from insurance providers up to six weeks before travel.
Drivers will need to have multiple green cards in these instances:
For fleet insurance - one for each vehicle
For towing a trailer or caravan - one for the towing vehicle and one for the trailer or caravan
If they have more than one policy covering the duration of their trip
From 1 January you might also need a GB sticker - but it depends on what sort of number plate is on your car.
If it has an EU logo next to the registration number, you will need a sticker.
Plates with GB and a Union flag on them will not require a sticker in most EU countries.
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An international driving permit (IDP) won't be required - as had been feared.
All 27 EU states have agreed to recognise UK licences without the need for an IDP.
Taking your pets abroad
From 1 January, you will not be able to use the pet passport scheme. Instead, you'll need an animal health certificate (AHC) for any pet you want to take into the EU.
This is also required to take a pet into Northern Ireland (NI).
Getting an AHC involves having your dog, cat or ferret microchipped; vaccinating your dog, cat or ferret against rabies; waiting 21 days after the primary vaccination before travel; and visiting your vet to get an AHC no more than 10 days before travel to the EU.
The government advises that pet owners allow at least 1 month to arrange all of this and relevant vaccinations.
Anyone who previously held a pet passport will still need an AHC and will need to take proof of a pet's microchipping date and vaccination history when attempting to obtain one.
The pet will need a new AHC for each trip to the EU or NI.
There are other restrictions for transporting more than five pets or to some countries with tapeworm controls.
Using your mobile phone while in the EU
From 1 January, the guarantee of free mobile phone roaming throughout the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway will end.
The government advises travellers to those countries to check with their phone operator to find out about any roaming charges.
Some mobile operators - Three, EE, O2 and Vodafone - have said they have no current plans to change their mobile roaming policies next year.
Meanwhile, the government has legislated to protect Britons from unexpected charges from 1 January, with a £45 per month limit on mobile data usage charges while abroad.
This means Britons cannot continue to use mobile data services when roaming unless they actively choose to continue spending.
Legislation also ensures that consumers will continue to receive alerts when they are at 80% and 100% data usage.
Mobile operators also have to ensure they continue to make information available to their customers in Northern Ireland on how to avoid inadvertent roaming in border regions from 1 January.
Operators will be required to take reasonable steps to protect their customers from paying roaming charges for inadvertently accessing roaming services.
Immigration
From 1 January, the UK's new points-based immigration system will come into force.
EU nationals will be treated the same as non-EU citizens and will have to apply for visas to live, work or study in the UK.
Irish citizens will continue to be able to enter and live in the UK as they do now.
EU citizens will not require a visa to enter the UK when visiting the UK for up to six months.
Those EU nationals already living in the UK, as well as those from Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland, need to apply to continue living in the UK after 31 December under the settled status scheme.