skynewspolitics--2020-09-09--'A lot of anger' across Europe at Johnson's move to override Brexit deal - Irish PM

`` Trust has been eroded '' and `` tensions have been created '' as result of Boris Johnson 's move to override parts of his Brexit deal with the EU , Ireland 's prime minister has told Sky News .
Micheal Martin told Ireland correspondent Stephen Murphy that he had registered Dublin 's `` deep disappointment '' with the UK prime minister 's approach , as well as its `` outright opposition '' , in a phone call earlier .
`` It was unilateral , that 's no way to approach difficult and complex negotiations of this kind , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` In Europe there 's a lot of anger towards this and the manner in which this happened .
`` In Ireland there clearly is , I articulated that . ''
The controversial Internal Market Bill was published after the government admitted it wanted to potentially `` break international law '' .
It is intended to distribute powers being brought back from Brussels to Westminster and the devolved administrations in Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland .
Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis told the Commons earlier this week that proposed legislation related to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a very specific and limited way . ''
But key components may contradict the Withdrawal Agreement passed by parliament last year , by letting ministers hand themselves the power to determine rules on state aid and goods travelling between Northern Ireland and Great Britain .
Mr Martin said the comments from Mr Lewis had left politicians in Dublin `` aghast '' .
`` I had never quite seen that before in a parliament , where a member of a government quite openly said this is breaking an international law , '' he added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK and EU negotiators try to strike a free trade deal before the end of the transition period in December , Mr Martin said there is a `` short window '' in which to strike an agreement .
: : Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker EU leaders have also cast anger on the changes , including President of the EU Council Charles Michel , who said Mr Johnson 's new bill `` does not create the confidence we need to build our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comments come the same day as those of former Conservative prime minister John Major , who also criticised Boris Johnson 's new Brexit proposals .
`` Our signature on any treaty or agreement has been sacrosanct , '' he said .
`` If we lose our reputation for honouring the promises we make , we will have lost something beyond price that may never be regained . ''
The row even reached the US , where Nancy Pelosi , speaker of the House of Representatives , said violating the Good Friday agreement could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal .
`` If the UK violates that international treaty and Brexit undermines the Good Friday accord , there will be absolutely no chance of a US-UK trade agreement passing the Congress , '' she said in a statement .
`` The Good Friday Agreement is treasured by the American people and will be proudly defended in the United States Congress . ''
The Taoiseach 's comments to Sky News this evening highlight the diplomatic fallout from Brandon Lewis remarks yesterday in the House of Commons and the publication of the new bill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ News just moments after he got off the phone with his British counterpart .
Clearly , it was a fraught and difficult phone call that took place .
It was described by the Taoiseach as forthright , which is well-known diplomatic code for difficult conversations that need to be hard .
He said that the Brandon Lewis statement had left people in the Irish parliament in Dublin `` aghast '' , he said , it had been done unilaterally without consultation .
It had eroded trust and created tensions around the talks .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a lot of anger '' in Europe over this .
On the topic of the future talks to find a trade deal in the next month or so , the Taoiseach said that he was not optimistic about a deal being done .
He struck a pessimistic note , although he did n't rule out the issues being resolved in the form of the emergency joint committee meeting .
But he spoke tonight of his deep disappointment at the British move and said he could n't fathom its rationale .

"Trust has been eroded" and "tensions have been created" as result of Boris Johnson's move to override parts of his Brexit deal with the EU, Ireland's prime minister has told Sky News.
Micheal Martin told Ireland correspondent Stephen Murphy that he had registered Dublin's "deep disappointment" with the UK prime minister's approach, as well as its "outright opposition", in a phone call earlier.
"It was unilateral, that's no way to approach difficult and complex negotiations of this kind," he said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:12 Controversial Brexit changes published
Mr Martin added: "In Europe there's a lot of anger towards this and the manner in which this happened.
"In Ireland there clearly is, I articulated that."
The controversial Internal Market Bill was published after the government admitted it wanted to potentially "break international law".
It is intended to distribute powers being brought back from Brussels to Westminster and the devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis told the Commons earlier this week that proposed legislation related to Brexit "does break international law in a very specific and limited way."
But key components may contradict the Withdrawal Agreement passed by parliament last year, by letting ministers hand themselves the power to determine rules on state aid and goods travelling between Northern Ireland and Great Britain.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:37 Bill aimed at modifying Brexit deal revealed
Mr Martin said the comments from Mr Lewis had left politicians in Dublin "aghast".
"I had never quite seen that before in a parliament, where a member of a government quite openly said this is breaking an international law," he added.
Considering the bigger picture, as UK and EU negotiators try to strike a free trade deal before the end of the transition period in December, Mr Martin said there is a "short window" in which to strike an agreement.
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EU leaders have also cast anger on the changes, including President of the EU Council Charles Michel, who said Mr Johnson's new bill "does not create the confidence we need to build our future relationship."
Mr Martin's comments come the same day as those of former Conservative prime minister John Major, who also criticised Boris Johnson's new Brexit proposals.
"Our signature on any treaty or agreement has been sacrosanct," he said.
"If we lose our reputation for honouring the promises we make, we will have lost something beyond price that may never be regained."
The row even reached the US, where Nancy Pelosi, speaker of the House of Representatives, said violating the Good Friday agreement could kill any prospect of a US-UK trade deal.
"If the UK violates that international treaty and Brexit undermines the Good Friday accord, there will be absolutely no chance of a US-UK trade agreement passing the Congress," she said in a statement.
"The Good Friday Agreement is treasured by the American people and will be proudly defended in the United States Congress."
Analysis: Irish PM strikes pessimistic note amid diplomatic fallout over plans to override Brexit deal
By Stephen Murphy, Ireland correspondent
The Taoiseach's comments to Sky News this evening highlight the diplomatic fallout from Brandon Lewis remarks yesterday in the House of Commons and the publication of the new bill today.
The Taoiseach spoke to Sky News just moments after he got off the phone with his British counterpart. Clearly, it was a fraught and difficult phone call that took place. It was described by the Taoiseach as forthright, which is well-known diplomatic code for difficult conversations that need to be hard.
He said that the Brandon Lewis statement had left people in the Irish parliament in Dublin "aghast", he said, it had been done unilaterally without consultation. It had eroded trust and created tensions around the talks. He also spoke of there being "a lot of anger" in Europe over this.
On the topic of the future talks to find a trade deal in the next month or so, the Taoiseach said that he was not optimistic about a deal being done.
He struck a pessimistic note, although he didn't rule out the issues being resolved in the form of the emergency joint committee meeting. But he spoke tonight of his deep disappointment at the British move and said he couldn't fathom its rationale.


skynewspolitics--2020-09-09--Brexit changes will override international law, government reveals

Ministers are planning to override parts of the Brexit deal with a bill that could be `` inconsistent '' with it .
The controversial Internal Market Bill was published after the government admitted yesterday it wanted to potentially `` break international law '' .
It is intended to distribute powers being brought back from Brussels to Westminster and the devolved administrations in Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland .
But key components may contradict the Withdrawal Agreement passed by parliament last year , by letting ministers hand themselves the power to determine rules on state aid and goods travelling between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ draft legislation says : `` Certain provisions to have effect notwithstanding inconsistency or incompatibility with international or other domestic law . ''
It adds any parts of the Brexit deal which contradict it `` cease to be recognised and available in domestic law '' .
And it contains an extraordinary list of precedents the new law would override , including `` any other legislation , convention or rule of international or domestic law whatsoever , including any order , judgement or decision of the Europe Court or of any other court or tribunal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week in the Financial Times , drawing sharp criticism from Tory MPs led by former prime minister Theresa May , who asked how other countries would be sure the UK `` can be trusted to abide by the legal obligations of the agreements it signs '' .
Soon after the plan was finalised , EU Council President Ursulla Von-der Leyen condemned it in stern terms .
`` Very concerned about announcements from the British government on its intentions to breach the withdrawal agreement , '' she tweeted .
`` This would break international @ @ @ @ @ @ @ servanda = the foundation of prosperous future relations . ''
Charles Michel , president of the EU Council , added : `` Breaking international law is not acceptable and does not create the confidence we need to build our future relationship . ''
Similar angry reactions also emerged back home , with Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford calling it a `` grim day for those that believe in the UK '' , given the bill `` favours those '' who want to see it `` broken up '' .
And former attorney general @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Conservatives for opposing a no-deal Brexit , told Sky News : `` It will have very serious representational consequences .
I could almost weep over it . ''
A senior Welsh Conservative , shadow counsel general David Melding , also quit his role on the frontbench saying he was `` gravely aggregated '' by the fresh `` dangers facing our 313-year-old union '' .
It comes as trade deal talks enter a crucial week , with Brussels ' chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier arriving in London aware both sides ' deadline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left the EU on 31 January , but is now in a `` transition period '' meaning it continues to follow the same rules until the end of the year .
At the start of 2021 , either a trade deal will come into effect or there will be no-deal , meaning the two sides will revert to trading on World Trade Organisation terms .

Ministers are planning to override parts of the Brexit deal with a bill that could be "inconsistent" with it.
The controversial Internal Market Bill was published after the government admitted yesterday it wanted to potentially "break international law".
It is intended to distribute powers being brought back from Brussels to Westminster and the devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:57 Minister admits new bill will break law
But key components may contradict the Withdrawal Agreement passed by parliament last year, by letting ministers hand themselves the power to determine rules on state aid and goods travelling between Northern Ireland and Great Britain.
The draft legislation says: "Certain provisions to have effect notwithstanding inconsistency or incompatibility with international or other domestic law."
It adds any parts of the Brexit deal which contradict it "cease to be recognised and available in domestic law".
And it contains an extraordinary list of precedents the new law would override, including "any other legislation, convention or rule of international or domestic law whatsoever, including any order, judgement or decision of the Europe Court or of any other court or tribunal".
Details were reported earlier this week in the Financial Times, drawing sharp criticism from Tory MPs led by former prime minister Theresa May, who asked how other countries would be sure the UK "can be trusted to abide by the legal obligations of the agreements it signs".
Soon after the plan was finalised, EU Council President Ursulla Von-der Leyen condemned it in stern terms.
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Image: The bill sets out how powers will return from Brussels to the UK
"Very concerned about announcements from the British government on its intentions to breach the withdrawal agreement," she tweeted.
"This would break international law and undermines trust. Pacta sunt servanda = the foundation of prosperous future relations."
Charles Michel, president of the EU Council, added: "Breaking international law is not acceptable and does not create the confidence we need to build our future relationship."
Similar angry reactions also emerged back home, with Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford calling it a "grim day for those that believe in the UK", given the bill "favours those" who want to see it "broken up".
And former attorney general Dominic Grieve, who was booted out of the Conservatives for opposing a no-deal Brexit, told Sky News: "It will have very serious representational consequences. I could almost weep over it."
A senior Welsh Conservative, shadow counsel general David Melding, also quit his role on the frontbench saying he was "gravely aggregated" by the fresh "dangers facing our 313-year-old union".
Image: Ursula von der Leyen said the move 'undermines trust'
It comes as trade deal talks enter a crucial week, with Brussels' chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier arriving in London aware both sides' deadline of mid-October is looming.
The UK left the EU on 31 January, but is now in a "transition period" meaning it continues to follow the same rules until the end of the year.
At the start of 2021, either a trade deal will come into effect or there will be no-deal, meaning the two sides will revert to trading on World Trade Organisation terms.


skynewspolitics--2020-09-10--'Waste and corruption on a cosmic scale': Plans for 10 million COVID-19 tests attacked

Leaked documents reportedly show the government plans to carry out up to 10 million coronavirus tests a day by early next year , but critics say the proposals represent `` waste/corruption on a cosmic scale '' .
The mass testing programme would cost £100bn - almost as much as the government spends on the NHS each year ( £130bn ) - according to a briefing memo seen by medical journal The BMJ .
A separate document revealed there were plans to grow the UK 's testing capacity from the current 350,000 a day to up to 10 million a day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the latest coronavirus news and updates On Wednesday , Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced ambitious plans for millions of people to be tested for coronavirus every day , in what he characterised as the `` Moonshot approach '' .
These documents provide more detail on what the government hopes to achieve , including plans for private companies GSK , AstraZeneca , Serco and G4S to help carry out the proposals .
But some scientists have already expressed doubts , while a memo published by the government 's scientific advisory group ( SAGE ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to an increased number of false positive results .
Anthony Costello , a former World Health Organisation director and UCL professor , wrote on Twitter : `` The PMs Moonshot nonsense ( no science , feasibility , evidence ) has been earmarked for £100bn , almost the entire NHS budget , w contracts for Astra , Serco and G4S .
`` This is waste/corruption on a cosmic scale . ''
Others pointed out current problems with the existing test and trace programme , after people complained of having to travel hundreds of miles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` This plan transmits unbounded optimism , disregarding the enormous problems with the existing testing and tracing programmes , '' Martin McKee , professor of European public health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , told The BMJ .
`` It focuses on only one part of the problem , testing , and says nothing about what will happen to those found positive , a particular concern given the low proportion of those who do adhere to advice to isolate - in part because of the lack of support they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` On the basis of what is presented here , this looks less like Apollo 11 , which took Neil Armstrong to the moon successfully , and more like Apollo 13 . ''
: : Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Professor Jose Vazquez-Boland , chairman of infectious diseases , University of Edinburgh , was more optimistic about the plans .
`` The focus of testing currently remains on confirmation of suspected cases ( people with symptoms ) , thus missing the point that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are asymptomatic , '' he said .
`` Only a mass screening programme , such as this alternative plan announced by the prime minister , which involves the regular testing of all the population for asymptomatic transmitters , can keep COVID-19 under control and eventually lead to its eradication . ''
In a document published on Friday , SAGE said the cheaper and faster tests needed for mass testing were less likely to be able to correctly identify positive and negatives than the tests currently used by NHS Test and Trace .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infections , twice-weekly tests with 99 % specificity would lead to 41 % of the population receiving a false positive over six months .
`` In such circumstances , rapid follow-up confirmatory testing will be needed to determine whether individuals should continue to self-isolate - it is important to rapidly isolate infectious individuals , but efforts will be needed to quickly release false positives , '' it said .
But the committee did say using testing as a point-of-entry requirements for particular settings , such as sporting events , could help these activities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but would `` require superb organisation and logistics with rapid , highly-sensitive tests '' .
Under the plans , the Whitehall briefing memo says testing will be rolled out in workplaces , football stadiums , entertainment venues and also at GP surgeries , pharmacies , schools and other local sites .
People will be given digital immunity passports that would allow those who test negative to take part in more normal activities .
Those in high-risk occupations or who are more vulnerable - such as hospital staff , ethnic minority groups and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ testing .
The government is banking on technology that `` currently does not exist '' , the briefing memo says , including a rapid 20-minute saliva test being piloted in Salford , Greater Manchester .
Dr David Strain , clinical senior lecturer at the University of Exeter and chairman of the BMA 's medical academic staff committee , said this means the mass testing strategy is `` fundamentally flawed '' .
`` The prime minister 's suggestion that this will be as simple as 'getting a pregnancy test ' that will give results @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not impossible , in the timescale he was suggesting to get the country back on track , '' he said .

Leaked documents reportedly show the government plans to carry out up to 10 million coronavirus tests a day by early next year, but critics say the proposals represent "waste/corruption on a cosmic scale".
The mass testing programme would cost £100bn - almost as much as the government spends on the NHS each year (£130bn) - according to a briefing memo seen by medical journal The BMJ.
A separate document revealed there were plans to grow the UK's testing capacity from the current 350,000 a day to up to 10 million a day by early 2021.
Live coverage of the latest coronavirus news and updates
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced ambitious plans for millions of people to be tested for coronavirus every day, in what he characterised as the "Moonshot approach".
These documents provide more detail on what the government hopes to achieve, including plans for private companies GSK, AstraZeneca, Serco and G4S to help carry out the proposals.
But some scientists have already expressed doubts, while a memo published by the government's scientific advisory group (SAGE) last week warned mass testing could lead to an increased number of false positive results.
Anthony Costello, a former World Health Organisation director and UCL professor, wrote on Twitter: "The PMs Moonshot nonsense (no science, feasibility, evidence) has been earmarked for £100bn, almost the entire NHS budget, w contracts for Astra, Serco and G4S.
"This is waste/corruption on a cosmic scale."
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Others pointed out current problems with the existing test and trace programme, after people complained of having to travel hundreds of miles from home to take a test.
"This plan transmits unbounded optimism, disregarding the enormous problems with the existing testing and tracing programmes," Martin McKee, professor of European public health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, told The BMJ.
"It focuses on only one part of the problem, testing, and says nothing about what will happen to those found positive, a particular concern given the low proportion of those who do adhere to advice to isolate - in part because of the lack of support they are offered."
He added: "On the basis of what is presented here, this looks less like Apollo 11, which took Neil Armstrong to the moon successfully, and more like Apollo 13."
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Professor Jose Vazquez-Boland, chairman of infectious diseases, University of Edinburgh, was more optimistic about the plans.
"The focus of testing currently remains on confirmation of suspected cases (people with symptoms), thus missing the point that most community transmission comes from those who are asymptomatic," he said.
"Only a mass screening programme, such as this alternative plan announced by the prime minister, which involves the regular testing of all the population for asymptomatic transmitters, can keep COVID-19 under control and eventually lead to its eradication."
In a document published on Friday, SAGE said the cheaper and faster tests needed for mass testing were less likely to be able to correctly identify positive and negatives than the tests currently used by NHS Test and Trace.
Image: Nurses help NHS workers as they self swab
It said that in a population with low infections, twice-weekly tests with 99% specificity would lead to 41% of the population receiving a false positive over six months.
"In such circumstances, rapid follow-up confirmatory testing will be needed to determine whether individuals should continue to self-isolate - it is important to rapidly isolate infectious individuals, but efforts will be needed to quickly release false positives," it said.
But the committee did say using testing as a point-of-entry requirements for particular settings, such as sporting events, could help these activities resume with a reduced risk of transmission, but would "require superb organisation and logistics with rapid, highly-sensitive tests".
Under the plans, the Whitehall briefing memo says testing will be rolled out in workplaces, football stadiums, entertainment venues and also at GP surgeries, pharmacies, schools and other local sites.
People will be given digital immunity passports that would allow those who test negative to take part in more normal activities.
Those in high-risk occupations or who are more vulnerable - such as hospital staff, ethnic minority groups and teachers - would be prioritised for regular testing.
The government is banking on technology that "currently does not exist", the briefing memo says, including a rapid 20-minute saliva test being piloted in Salford, Greater Manchester.
Dr David Strain, clinical senior lecturer at the University of Exeter and chairman of the BMA's medical academic staff committee, said this means the mass testing strategy is "fundamentally flawed".
"The prime minister's suggestion that this will be as simple as 'getting a pregnancy test' that will give results within 15 minutes is unlikely, if not impossible, in the timescale he was suggesting to get the country back on track," he said.


skynewspolitics--2020-09-10--Emergency Brexit talks over UK's 'carpet bomb' plan as PM warned stance risks US trade deal

Emergency talks will be held today between Michael Gove and a top EU figure , after Brussels reacted with fury to the UK 's latest Brexit move .
A hastily-arranged meeting will go ahead in London over Prime Minister Boris Johnson 's plan to override parts of the Withdrawal Agreement he struck and saw passed by parliament last year .
The row centres on a controversial bill published on Wednesday , which revealed plans to hand ministers ' key powers on state aid and Northern Ireland customs - breaking international law , by the government 's own admission .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vice presidents , Maros Sefcovic , to voice Brussels ' concerns and clarify `` the full and timely implementation of the withdrawal agreement '' .
Meanwhile , legal action is also being considered by the bloc , Bloomberg and Reuters reported .
An EU official said there is `` now an inclination among some diplomats to say 'good riddance ' to Britain '' , such is the anger that has been stoked in Brussels .
They added London 's tactics amount to `` carpet-bombing '' , with the `` clear intention to pave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : : Subscribe to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Straight after the showdown on the divorce deal , the two sides ' chief negotiators Michel Barnier and David Frost will hold more face-to-face negotiations on a trade agreement .
This week 's talks have been hailed as a `` moment of reckoning '' as the clock ticks down to mid-October - the deadline acknowledged by both sides for securing a future relationship .
Overnight it emerged that the prospect of another trade deal hoped for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of the water by his approach to the Withdrawal Agreement .
Nancy Pelosi , the speaker of the House of Representatives in the US , warned that if the UK `` violates its international agreements '' relating to the Good Friday Agreement , then `` there will be absolutely no chance of a US-UK trade agreement passing the Congress '' .
`` The Good Friday Agreement is the bedrock of peace in Northern Ireland and an inspiration for the whole world , '' the leading Democrat said in a statement .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not be allowed to imperil the Good Friday Agreement , including the stability brought by the invisible and frictionless border between the Irish Republic and Northern Ireland . ''
She said the UK `` must respect '' the Northern Ireland Protocol signed with the EU , so to `` ensure the free flow of goods across the border '' .
The UK left the EU on 31 January , but is now in a `` transition period '' , which means it continues to follow the same rules until the end of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , either a trade deal will come into effect or there will be no deal , meaning the two sides will revert to trading on World Trade Organisation terms .

Emergency talks are being held today between Michael Gove and a top EU figure, after Brussels reacted with fury to the UK's latest Brexit move.
A hastily-arranged meeting went ahead in London over Prime Minister Boris Johnson's plan to override parts of the Withdrawal Agreement he struck and saw passed by parliament last year.
The row centres on a controversial bill published on Wednesday, which revealed plans to hand ministers' key powers on state aid and Northern Ireland customs - breaking international law, by the government's own admission.
The EU Commission is sending one of its vice presidents, Maros Sefcovic, to voice Brussels' concerns and clarify "the full and timely implementation of the withdrawal agreement".
Image: Maros Sefcovic is travelling to London today
Meanwhile, legal action is also being considered by the bloc, Bloomberg and Reuters reported.
An EU official said there is "now an inclination among some diplomats to say 'good riddance' to Britain", such is the anger that has been stoked in Brussels.
They added London's tactics amount to "carpet-bombing", with the "clear intention to pave the way toward a no-deal".
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Straight after the showdown on the divorce deal, the two sides' chief negotiators Michel Barnier and David Frost held more face-to-face negotiations on a trade agreement.
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This week's talks have been hailed as a "moment of reckoning" as the clock ticks down to mid-October - the deadline acknowledged by both sides for securing a future relationship.
Image: Lord Frost and Mr Barnier will hold trade talks today, too
Overnight it emerged that the prospect of another trade deal hoped for by Mr Johnson could also be blown out of the water by his approach to the Withdrawal Agreement.
Nancy Pelosi, the speaker of the House of Representatives in the US, warned that if the UK "violates its international agreements" relating to the Good Friday Agreement, then "there will be absolutely no chance of a US-UK trade agreement passing the Congress".
"The Good Friday Agreement is the bedrock of peace in Northern Ireland and an inspiration for the whole world," the leading Democrat said in a statement.
"Whatever form it takes, Brexit cannot be allowed to imperil the Good Friday Agreement, including the stability brought by the invisible and frictionless border between the Irish Republic and Northern Ireland."
She said the UK "must respect" the Northern Ireland Protocol signed with the EU, so to "ensure the free flow of goods across the border".
Image: Nancy Pelosi has warned the UK risks missing out on a trade deal with the US
And Mr Johnson may be facing a sizable revolt from within his own party.
Tory grandee Sir Roger Gale indicated he was ready to lose the whip by voting against the Internal Market Bill, when it is put to a vote.
Asked if he was prepared to have the whip taken away, the MP told Sky News: "I shall do what I have to do.
"This is unprecedented; if the legislation put before us as stands at the moment, then i will not vote for it. I will vote against it."
Former Tory prime ministers Theresa May and Sir John Major yesterday both voiced their disquiet, too.
The UK left the EU on 31 January, but is now in a "transition period", which means it continues to follow the same rules until the end of the year.
At the start of 2021, either a trade deal will come into effect or there will be no deal, meaning the two sides will revert to trading on World Trade Organisation terms.


skynewspolitics--2020-09-10--Minister defends ex-Australian PM's UK trade role - but 'doesn't agree' with climate comments

The hiring of Tony Abbott to represent the UK in trade talks has again been defended by a government minister , amid ongoing controversy over the former Australian PM 's views on homosexuality and climate change .
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps told Sky News that Mr Abbott 's track record of negotiating agreements for his homeland made him a `` welcome '' addition to the government 's team - but distanced himself from his previous commentary on social and environmental issues .
`` Anyone who doubts that the global temperatures are changing and that it has something to do with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is wrong , so I do n't agree with that , '' he told the Kay Burley programme .
`` I 'm really not interested in what people do in their private lives and I certainly believe climate change is real and we have to act on it . ''
After being grilled about why Mr Abbott had been asked to represent the UK in trade talks , Mr Shapps cited his track record of negotiating deals in Asia for Australia .
The transport secretary said : `` The UK has n't been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for 45 years , more now , since that went to the EU to do , so we welcome help and support in doing that .
`` But as we say , he 's one of 16 people doing it , he 's not being paid . ''
`` Britain needs a really good trade deal , or trade deals around the world , and it 's a great opportunity for the UK and we need expertise in it , '' he added .
`` Here 's somebody who 's got global expertise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he 's not just somebody at random and he 's one voice in a whole bunch of different voices unpaid for the role , and I think we will be able to secure jobs in Britain by having great trade deals in other parts of the world . ''
The decision to appoint Mr Abbott as a senior trade adviser to the government has sparked controversy , after he was accused of sexism and homophobia over a string of comments made throughout his political career .
The 62-year-old has also made contentious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which led equality campaigners and opposition MPs to demand Boris Johnson block his new appointment .
Various ministers have gone into bat for the decision , with Health Secretary Matt Hancock responding to the suggestion that Mr Abbott was a `` homophobe and misogynist '' by saying : `` He 's also an expert in trade . ''
Despite the uproar , last Friday he was made a member of the UK Board of Trade and will advise the government on its post-Brexit strategy .

The hiring of Tony Abbott to represent the UK in trade talks has again been defended by a government minister, amid ongoing controversy over the former Australian PM's views on homosexuality and climate change.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps told Sky News that Mr Abbott's track record of negotiating agreements for his homeland made him a "welcome" addition to the government's team - but distanced himself from his previous commentary on social and environmental issues.
"Anyone who doubts that the global temperatures are changing and that it has something to do with men and women being on this planet is wrong, so I don't agree with that," he told the Kay Burley programme.
"I'm really not interested in what people do in their private lives and I certainly believe climate change is real and we have to act on it."
Image: Former Australian prime minister Tony Abbott has sparked controversy with previous comments
After being grilled about why Mr Abbott had been asked to represent the UK in trade talks, Mr Shapps cited his track record of negotiating deals in Asia for Australia.
The transport secretary said: "The UK hasn't been in the business of negotiating trade deals for 45 years, more now, since that went to the EU to do, so we welcome help and support in doing that.
"But as we say, he's one of 16 people doing it, he's not being paid."
"Britain needs a really good trade deal, or trade deals around the world, and it's a great opportunity for the UK and we need expertise in it," he added.
"Here's somebody who's got global expertise who was the prime minister of Australia, he's not just somebody at random and he's one voice in a whole bunch of different voices unpaid for the role, and I think we will be able to secure jobs in Britain by having great trade deals in other parts of the world."
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:34 Homophobic, misogynist? He's also a trade expert
The decision to appoint Mr Abbott as a senior trade adviser to the government has sparked controversy, after he was accused of sexism and homophobia over a string of comments made throughout his political career.
The 62-year-old has also made contentious claims about refugees and the coronavirus crisis, which led equality campaigners and opposition MPs to demand Boris Johnson block his new appointment.
Image: Campaigners and opposition MPs demanded Boris Johnson block Tony Abbott's appointment
Various ministers have gone into bat for the decision, with Health Secretary Matt Hancock responding to the suggestion that Mr Abbott was a "homophobe and misogynist" by saying: "He's also an expert in trade."
Despite the uproar, last Friday he was made a member of the UK Board of Trade and will advise the government on its post-Brexit strategy.


skynewspolitics--2020-09-10--'Extremely serious violation': EU threatens legal action over plan to override Brexit deal

The UK government has rejected EU demands to scrap draft legislation that Brussels deems a `` clear breach '' of the Brexit withdrawal deal .
The EU 's demand - accompanied by a threat of legal action and a suggestion Brexit trade talks could be halted if the UK does not back down - followed emergency talks between senior EU and UK figures on Thursday .
But senior cabinet minister Michael Gove , the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster , vowed the UK `` would not and could not '' agree to the EU 's request to drop the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Agreement has cast fresh tensions over the relationship between Brussels and London , with trade talks over a future EU-UK relationship continuing to remain deadlocked .
Following an eighth round of negotiations this week , both the EU and UK chief negotiators admitted `` significant '' differences remain in key areas .
The UK Internal Market Bill , published by the government on Wednesday , seeks to alter key elements of the Withdrawal Agreement that Prime Minister Boris Johnson signed with Brussels earlier this year .
The proposed law has whipped up a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and at home - including from leading Conservatives .
Amid the row , European Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic travelled to London on Thursday to meet with Mr Gove .
Mr Sefcovic told Mr Gove that if the legislation were to be passed `` it would constitute an extremely serious violation of the Withdrawal Agreement and of international law '' .
He added that by putting forward the bill , which was published on Wednesday , the UK had seriously damaged trust between the EU and the UK .
`` It is now up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trust , '' the European Commission said in a statement after the meeting .
The European Commission also rejected claims that the bill is designed to protect the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland .
`` In fact , it is of the view that it does the opposite , '' the statement added .
Mr Sefcovic told Mr Gove that the implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement - including its provisions for the Irish border - was a `` legal obligation '' and that the EU `` expects the letter and spirit of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Violating the terms of the Withdrawal Agreement would `` break international law , undermine trust and put at risk the ongoing future relationship negotiations '' on a UK-EU trade deal , Mr Sefcovic added .
He also warned the EU `` will not be shy '' in using `` a number of mechanisms and legal remedies '' that are contained in the Withdrawal Agreement to address violations .
: : Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker But Mr Gove later revealed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' to Mr Sefcovic that , while the UK government is `` committed to the implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement '' , it `` could not and would not '' scrap the bill .
`` This legislation is critical to ensuring that there is unfettered access for goods from Northern Ireland to the rest of the United Kingdom , '' he said .
Ahead of a planned parliamentary vote on the legislation next week - during which some Tory MPs have vowed to rebel against the government - Mr Gove expressed his hope @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there will be a recognition that we have an obligation to the people of Northern Ireland in order to make sure that they continue to have unfettered access '' .
Mr Gove added that the government also had a duty to ensure the Northern Ireland Protocol - which forms part of the Withdrawal Agreement - was `` implemented in a way that makes sure the gains of the Good Friday Agreement are absolutely secured and enhanced in the future '' .
The meeting between Mr Sefcovic and Mr Gove took place at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were concluding the eighth round of negotiations on the future UK-EU relationship , which have so far made little progress .
Without a trade deal by the end of this year - when the Brexit transition period ends - the UK will likely have to trade with the EU on World Trade Organisation terms from next year .
Following the latest round of talks in London , EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier said that `` significant differences '' remain between the two sides .
He accused the UK of `` refusing to include @ @ @ @ @ @ @ future agreement , while requesting free access to our market '' .
`` To conclude a future partnership , mutual trust and confidence are and will be necessary , '' Mr Barnier added , as he noted the EU was `` intensifying its preparedness work '' ahead of a possible no-deal outcome at the end of the year .
The UK 's chief negotiator , Lord Frost , said this week 's talks had seen `` useful exchanges '' but added `` a number of challenging areas remain and the divergences on some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have engaged in discussions in all areas , '' he added .
`` We have consistently made proposals which provide for open and fair competition , on the basis of high standards , in a way which is appropriate to a modern free trade agreement between sovereign and autonomous equals . ''
The two sides will meet in Brussels next week to continue talks , with Lord Frost saying he was `` working hard '' to reach a deal by the middle of next month .
The pound has been under pressure amid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thursday dipped to its lowest level against the euro since March , at just over €1.08 .
It also slipped against the dollar , dipping below $ 1.29 .
In tabling the UK Internal Market Bill , the government has admitted the proposed legislation does break international law in a `` very specific and limited way '' .
Senior Conservatives - including three former Tory leaders - have criticised the plans .
Earlier on Thursday , Lord Michael Howard accused the government of damaging the UK 's `` reputation for probity and respect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` How can we reproach Russia or China or Iran when their conduct falls below internationally accepted standards , when we are are showing such scant regard for our treaty obligations ? ''
he told the House of Lords .
Senior Tory MP Sir Roger Gale indicated he is ready to lose the Conservative whip in order to vote against the bill next week .
`` I shall do what I have to do on the basis of principle , '' he told Sky News .
`` And the principle is that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab , when the pair met to discuss Iran on Thursday , that a breach by the UK of the Withdrawal Agreement would be `` unacceptable '' .
Andreas Michaelis , the German ambassador to the UK , said : `` In more than 30 years as a diplomat I have not experienced such a fast , intentional and profound deterioration of a negotiation .
`` If you believe in partnership between the UK and the EU like I do then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Reeves , Labour 's shadow Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster , said : `` The government promised the British people they would deliver their 'oven-ready ' deal .
`` But just months later they are seeking to undo it , squandering valuable time and losing focus during a pandemic .
`` A deal must be reached as a priority so that the government can then get a grip on tackling the coronavirus and protecting jobs , businesses and communities . ''

The UK government has rejected EU demands to scrap draft legislation that Brussels deems a "clear breach" of the Brexit withdrawal deal.
The EU's demand - accompanied by a threat of legal action and a suggestion Brexit trade talks could be halted if the UK does not back down - followed emergency talks between senior EU and UK figures on Thursday.
But senior cabinet minister Michael Gove, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, vowed the UK "would not and could not" agree to the EU's request to drop the legislation.
Image: Boris Johnson formally signed the Withdrawal Agreement in January. Pic: Andrew Parsons / 10 Downing Street
The stand-off over the Withdrawal Agreement has cast fresh tensions over the relationship between Brussels and London, with trade talks over a future EU-UK relationship continuing to remain deadlocked.
Following an eighth round of negotiations this week, both the EU and UK chief negotiators admitted "significant" differences remain in key areas.
The UK Internal Market Bill, published by the government on Wednesday, seeks to alter key elements of the Withdrawal Agreement that Prime Minister Boris Johnson signed with Brussels earlier this year.
The proposed law has whipped up a storm of anger both from the EU and at home - including from leading Conservatives.
Amid the row, European Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic travelled to London on Thursday to meet with Mr Gove.
Mr Sefcovic told Mr Gove that if the legislation were to be passed "it would constitute an extremely serious violation of the Withdrawal Agreement and of international law".
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He added that by putting forward the bill, which was published on Wednesday, the UK had seriously damaged trust between the EU and the UK.
"It is now up to the UK government to re-establish that trust," the European Commission said in a statement after the meeting.
The European Commission also rejected claims that the bill is designed to protect the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland.
"In fact, it is of the view that it does the opposite," the statement added.
Image: European Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic (right) held emergency talks in London
Mr Sefcovic told Mr Gove that the implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement - including its provisions for the Irish border - was a "legal obligation" and that the EU "expects the letter and spirit of this agreement to be fully respected".
Violating the terms of the Withdrawal Agreement would "break international law, undermine trust and put at risk the ongoing future relationship negotiations" on a UK-EU trade deal, Mr Sefcovic added.
He also warned the EU "will not be shy" in using "a number of mechanisms and legal remedies" that are contained in the Withdrawal Agreement to address violations.
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Irish foreign affairs minister Simon Coveney thanked Mr Sefcovic for his "important statement".
But Mr Gove later revealed he had made it "perfectly clear" to Mr Sefcovic that, while the UK government is "committed to the implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement", it "could not and would not" scrap the bill.
"This legislation is critical to ensuring that there is unfettered access for goods from Northern Ireland to the rest of the United Kingdom," he said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:41 'There's a lot of anger' - Irish PM
Ahead of a planned parliamentary vote on the legislation next week - during which some Tory MPs have vowed to rebel against the government - Mr Gove expressed his hope that "across the House of Commons there will be a recognition that we have an obligation to the people of Northern Ireland in order to make sure that they continue to have unfettered access".
Mr Gove added that the government also had a duty to ensure the Northern Ireland Protocol - which forms part of the Withdrawal Agreement - was "implemented in a way that makes sure the gains of the Good Friday Agreement are absolutely secured and enhanced in the future".
The meeting between Mr Sefcovic and Mr Gove took place at the same time as EU and UK officials were concluding the eighth round of negotiations on the future UK-EU relationship, which have so far made little progress.
Without a trade deal by the end of this year - when the Brexit transition period ends - the UK will likely have to trade with the EU on World Trade Organisation terms from next year.
Image: EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier admitted 'significant differences' remain over trade negotiations
Following the latest round of talks in London, EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier said that "significant differences" remain between the two sides.
He accused the UK of "refusing to include indispensable guarantees of fair competition in our future agreement, while requesting free access to our market".
"To conclude a future partnership, mutual trust and confidence are and will be necessary," Mr Barnier added, as he noted the EU was "intensifying its preparedness work" ahead of a possible no-deal outcome at the end of the year.
The UK's chief negotiator, Lord Frost, said this week's talks had seen "useful exchanges" but added "a number of challenging areas remain and the divergences on some are still significant".
"We have engaged in discussions in all areas," he added.
"We have consistently made proposals which provide for open and fair competition, on the basis of high standards, in a way which is appropriate to a modern free trade agreement between sovereign and autonomous equals."
The two sides will meet in Brussels next week to continue talks, with Lord Frost saying he was "working hard" to reach a deal by the middle of next month.
The pound has been under pressure amid the latest tensions over Brexit and on Thursday dipped to its lowest level against the euro since March, at just over €1.08.
It also slipped against the dollar, dipping below $1.29.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:57 Minister admits new bill will break law
In tabling the UK Internal Market Bill, the government has admitted the proposed legislation does break international law in a "very specific and limited way".
Senior Conservatives - including three former Tory leaders - have criticised the plans.
Earlier on Thursday, Lord Michael Howard accused the government of damaging the UK's "reputation for probity and respect for the rule of the law".
"How can we reproach Russia or China or Iran when their conduct falls below internationally accepted standards, when we are are showing such scant regard for our treaty obligations?" he told the House of Lords.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:43 Tory MP will vote against UK Internal Market Bill
Senior Tory MP Sir Roger Gale indicated he is ready to lose the Conservative whip in order to vote against the bill next week.
"I shall do what I have to do on the basis of principle," he told Sky News.
"And the principle is that this United Kingdom keeps its word internationally."
French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, when the pair met to discuss Iran on Thursday, that a breach by the UK of the Withdrawal Agreement would be "unacceptable".
Andreas Michaelis, the German ambassador to the UK, said: "In more than 30 years as a diplomat I have not experienced such a fast, intentional and profound deterioration of a negotiation.
"If you believe in partnership between the UK and the EU like I do then don't accept it."
Rachel Reeves, Labour's shadow Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, said: "The government promised the British people they would deliver their 'oven-ready' deal.
"But just months later they are seeking to undo it, squandering valuable time and losing focus during a pandemic.
"A deal must be reached as a priority so that the government can then get a grip on tackling the coronavirus and protecting jobs, businesses and communities."


skynewspolitics--2020-09-10--Tory rebels could yet throw Boris Johnson off track over Brexit

It seems there is no amount of pressure from the European Union that would make Boris Johnson yield over his plans to annul the Withdrawal Agreement .
Via video link , representatives of every one of the EU 's 27 countries joined a meeting of the Joint Committee implementing the Northern Ireland Protocol with Michael Gove and Maros Sefcovic , the European Commission 's vice-president .
Mr Sefcovic protested .
Mr Gove replied that the government would not back down .
The apoplexy expressed by Europe - and a good deal of other international politicians - was priced in by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This is why it is unlikely to have much effect .
More dangerous for Number 10 is the pincer movement from the prime minister 's own party , as we head towards votes on the legislation starting on Monday .
Even the revolt on behalf of Tory MPs who voted Remain is proving more tricky since it is led by Theresa May - Mr Johnson 's predecessor .
Friends say she can not support the legislation .
Conveniently , however , she is understood to be out of the country on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the consequences of failing to back it , which have in the past included being thrown out of the Tory parliamentary party .
Many of the other rebels who once would have sided with Remainers have avoided protesting in public , just telling the chief whip they can not support what 's going on .
More striking , however , is the nature of the revolt amongst Brexiteers .
Lord Howard became the third former Conservative leader - but the first who voted for Brexit - to protest in the most vehement possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over international law .
He was swiftly followed by former Tory chancellor Lord Lamont , another Brexiteer , who said that the plan was impossible to support .
: : Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Sir Bernard Jenkin , of the European Research Group , warned of the consequences of breaking international agreements .
Mr Johnson is at the centre of a pincer movement .
He has a robust 80-strong majority , and the DUP will vote for it .
There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to date over the issue .
Yet the status and volume of rebels could yet throw the government off track .
Fittingly , Brexit looks like it will be decided on the floor of the House of Commons after all .

It seems there is no amount of pressure from the European Union that would make Boris Johnson yield over his plans to annul the Withdrawal Agreement.
Via video link, representatives of every one of the EU's 27 countries joined a meeting of the Joint Committee implementing the Northern Ireland Protocol with Michael Gove and Maros Sefcovic, the European Commission's vice-president.
Mr Sefcovic protested. Mr Gove replied that the government would not back down.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:24 UK will not scrap controversial bill
The apoplexy expressed by Europe - and a good deal of other international politicians - was priced in by Downing Street when they did this move.
This is why it is unlikely to have much effect.
More dangerous for Number 10 is the pincer movement from the prime minister's own party, as we head towards votes on the legislation starting on Monday.
Even the revolt on behalf of Tory MPs who voted Remain is proving more tricky since it is led by Theresa May - Mr Johnson's predecessor.
Friends say she cannot support the legislation.
Conveniently, however, she is understood to be out of the country on a long-planned trip, meaning she will avoid the consequences of failing to back it, which have in the past included being thrown out of the Tory parliamentary party.
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Many of the other rebels who once would have sided with Remainers have avoided protesting in public, just telling the chief whip they cannot support what's going on.
More striking, however, is the nature of the revolt amongst Brexiteers.
Lord Howard became the third former Conservative leader - but the first who voted for Brexit - to protest in the most vehement possible way over the plans to ride roughshod over international law.
He was swiftly followed by former Tory chancellor Lord Lamont, another Brexiteer, who said that the plan was impossible to support.
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Sir Bernard Jenkin, of the European Research Group, warned of the consequences of breaking international agreements.
Mr Johnson is at the centre of a pincer movement.
He has a robust 80-strong majority, and the DUP will vote for it. There have not been been any ministerial resignations to date over the issue.
Yet the status and volume of rebels could yet throw the government off track.
Fittingly, Brexit looks like it will be decided on the floor of the House of Commons after all.


skynewspolitics--2020-09-10--Lords could block PM's plan to override Brexit withdrawal deal

Boris Johnson has been warned he will struggle to get controversial legislation - which seeks to override the Brexit withdrawal deal - through the House of Lords .
Lord Howard of Lympne , the former Conservative Party leader , told Sky News he would be `` very surprised '' if the proposed UK Internal Market Bill was passed by peers .
The Brexit-backing peer is the third ex-Tory leader - after Sir John Major and Theresa May - to condemn the prime minister 's plan to use the legislation to alter key elements of the UK 's Withdrawal Agreement .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ last year before formally signing the deal in January .
But he is now seeking , through the bill , to empower ministers to set it aside .
Lord Howard described the government 's admission that the proposed legislation would break international law as a `` very , very sad day '' .
`` We have a reputation for probity , for upholding the rule of law , '' he told Kay Burley .
`` And it 's a reputation that is very precious and that ought to be safeguarded .
Lord Howard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Conservative front bench following allegations about the now prime minister 's private life , added there was `` no mandate from the British people to break treaties '' .
The government is facing mounting anger from senior Tories , as well as fury and a threat of legal action from the European Union , over the legislation .
And Lord Howard predicted Mr Johnson would face a parliamentary battle if he ploughs ahead with his plans .
`` I 'm sure that many of my Conservative colleagues will be joining me in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` And , of course , the Conservative Party in the House of Lords does n't have a majority anyway .
`` So , I 'd be very surprised if it gets through the House of Lords . ''
Although the prime minister enjoys an 80-strong majority in the House of Commons , he is also facing a possible revolt among Tory MPs .
Mr Johnson was due to speak to Conservative MPs on Zoom about the bill on Friday evening .
Unhappy Conservative backbenchers have tabled an amendment to the legislation that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ overriding the Withdrawal Agreement without parliament 's support .
Sir Bob Neill , who has tabled the amendment with the backing of fellow Tory former ministers Damian Green and Oliver Heald , told Times Radio : `` I hope it 's at least an indication as a government that really , you need to think very hard and carefully about going down this route .
`` For heaven 's sake , try and find some other way . ''
Sir Bob played down the prospect of Tory rebels , who are reported to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tory whip by voting against the government 's proposed legislation .
But he signalled he would be ready to be thrown out the Conservative parliamentary party if necessary .
Sir Roger Gale also indicated he is ready to lose the Conservative whip in order to vote against the bill .
`` I shall do what I have to do on the basis of principle , '' he told Sky News .
`` And the principle is that this United Kingdom keeps its word internationally . ''
Last year , Mr Johnson expelled 21 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ voting against his Brexit plans .
The government has argued the UK Internal Market Bill is `` critical '' to ensuring the unfettered access for goods from Northern Ireland to the rest of the UK , and to protect the Good Friday Agreement .
Ahead of the bill being debated by MPs in the Commons next week , business minister Nadhim Zahawi told Sky News he and his fellow ministers would `` look forward to outlining exactly why we 're taking these precautionary measures '' .
`` What we 're taking is , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sure that ... if there is no deal , we will not allow adverse impacts of that on the people of Northern Ireland , of all communities , '' he told Kay Burley .
`` That can not be the right thing to do and , next week , parliamentarians , the country , will be able to scrutinise what we are saying and how we aim to do this . ''
Mr Zahawi added that `` ambiguities '' remained in the Withdrawal Agreement and its provisions for the Irish border - known @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the deal being signed `` at pace '' last year , which necessitated the new legislation .
`` What we are saying is , this is is not about if we implement them , this is about how we implement them , '' he said .
: : Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker But Sir Simon Fraser , the former head of the Foreign Office , accused the UK government of throwing a `` bombshell '' into continuing trade talks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proposed legislation .
He told Sky News the proposed legislation `` unpicks unilaterally significant parts of the Withdrawal Agreement '' .
`` It is a very significant potential disapplication of important parts of that agreement , '' Sir Simon added .
`` The fact they 're saying they 're doing this because they signed the agreement in a hurry and did n't realise its implications is hardly a convincing argument . ''

Boris Johnson has been warned he will struggle to get controversial legislation - which seeks to override the Brexit withdrawal deal - through the House of Lords.
Lord Howard of Lympne, the former Conservative Party leader, told Sky News he would be "very surprised" if the proposed UK Internal Market Bill was passed by peers.
The Brexit-backing peer is the third ex-Tory leader - after Sir John Major and Theresa May - to condemn the prime minister's plan to use the legislation to alter key elements of the UK's Withdrawal Agreement.
Image: Michael Howard and Boris Johnson in 2004. Pic: Alan Davidson/Shutterstock
Mr Johnson himself struck the Withdrawal Agreement last year before formally signing the deal in January.
But he is now seeking, through the bill, to empower ministers to set it aside.
Lord Howard described the government's admission that the proposed legislation would break international law as a "very, very sad day".
"We have a reputation for probity, for upholding the rule of law," he told Kay Burley.
"And it's a reputation that is very precious and that ought to be safeguarded.
"I'm afraid it was severely damaged."
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Lord Howard, who once sacked Mr Johnson from the Conservative front bench following allegations about the now prime minister's private life, added there was "no mandate from the British people to break treaties".
The government is facing mounting anger from senior Tories, as well as fury and a threat of legal action from the European Union, over the legislation.
And Lord Howard predicted Mr Johnson would face a parliamentary battle if he ploughs ahead with his plans.
"I'm sure that many of my Conservative colleagues will be joining me in opposing it," he said.
"And, of course, the Conservative Party in the House of Lords doesn't have a majority anyway.
"So, I'd be very surprised if it gets through the House of Lords."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:20 UK will not scrap controversial bill - Gove
Although the prime minister enjoys an 80-strong majority in the House of Commons, he is also facing a possible revolt among Tory MPs.
Mr Johnson was due to speak to Conservative MPs on Zoom about the bill on Friday evening.
Unhappy Conservative backbenchers have tabled an amendment to the legislation that would try to block the government from overriding the Withdrawal Agreement without parliament's support.
Sir Bob Neill, who has tabled the amendment with the backing of fellow Tory former ministers Damian Green and Oliver Heald, told Times Radio: "I hope it's at least an indication as a government that really, you need to think very hard and carefully about going down this route.
"For heaven's sake, try and find some other way."
Sir Bob played down the prospect of Tory rebels, who are reported to number up to 30, losing the Tory whip by voting against the government's proposed legislation.
But he signalled he would be ready to be thrown out the Conservative parliamentary party if necessary.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:43 Tory MP will vote against UK Internal Market Bill
Sir Roger Gale also indicated he is ready to lose the Conservative whip in order to vote against the bill.
"I shall do what I have to do on the basis of principle," he told Sky News.
"And the principle is that this United Kingdom keeps its word internationally."
Last year, Mr Johnson expelled 21 Conservative MPs from the parliamentary party for voting against his Brexit plans.
The government has argued the UK Internal Market Bill is "critical" to ensuring the unfettered access for goods from Northern Ireland to the rest of the UK, and to protect the Good Friday Agreement.
Ahead of the bill being debated by MPs in the Commons next week, business minister Nadhim Zahawi told Sky News he and his fellow ministers would "look forward to outlining exactly why we're taking these precautionary measures".
"What we're taking is, really, an insurance policy to make sure that... if there is no deal, we will not allow adverse impacts of that on the people of Northern Ireland, of all communities," he told Kay Burley.
"That cannot be the right thing to do and, next week, parliamentarians, the country, will be able to scrutinise what we are saying and how we aim to do this."
Mr Zahawi added that "ambiguities" remained in the Withdrawal Agreement and its provisions for the Irish border - known as the Northern Ireland Protocol - due to the deal being signed "at pace" last year, which necessitated the new legislation.
"What we are saying is, this is is not about if we implement them, this is about how we implement them," he said.
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But Sir Simon Fraser, the former head of the Foreign Office, accused the UK government of throwing a "bombshell" into continuing trade talks on a future EU-UK relationship with the proposed legislation.
He told Sky News the proposed legislation "unpicks unilaterally significant parts of the Withdrawal Agreement".
"It is a very significant potential disapplication of important parts of that agreement," Sir Simon added.
"The fact they're saying they're doing this because they signed the agreement in a hurry and didn't realise its implications is hardly a convincing argument."


skynewspolitics--2020-09-11--Conservative MPs express anger over new 'rule of six' restrictions

Boris Johnson is under pressure from Conservative MPs over the new `` rule of six '' coronavirus restrictions - with senior Tories calling for children to not be included in tallies .
From Monday , gatherings of more than six people will be banned in England after the number of daily positive COVID-19 cases in the UK reached almost 3,000 .
However , Tory MPs have expressed concerns about the implementation of the new restrictions - and asked why the `` draconian '' measures are being introduced without being voted on .
The anger has opened up a fresh rift @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with Mr Johnson due to address Tory MPs on Zoom later on Friday amid disquiet over his plans to override the Brexit withdrawal deal .
But Downing Street downplayed reports the new measures were also the subject of a cabinet split , following claims that Health Secretary Matt Hancock was the only cabinet minister on the coronavirus strategy committee to support the `` rule of six '' .
The Prime Minister 's official spokesman said : `` The decision that was made was agreed between the government , in this case the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the coronavirus response , the chief medical officer and the chief scientific adviser . ''
Commenting on the new `` rule of six '' measures , New Forest West MP Sir Desmond Swayne told Sky News : `` I just think that in a democracy it is absurd that huge interference in our private lives can be made without consultation in parliament , without a vote , without even a debate . ''
His remarks echoed those of Sir Christopher Chope , the Christchurch MP , who earlier on Friday raised a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Commons to note the government has yet to lay the new COVID-19 regulations before parliament .
`` I 'm very concerned about the lack of opportunity for people , the public first of all , to see the text of these new regulations and I 'm also concerned about the continuing reluctance of the government to give any opportunities to members to debate this , '' he said .
`` What we are talking about is the most draconian introduction of new restrictions on our liberty with criminal sanctions and we need to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and given the opportunity of debating it . ''
Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle responded that `` the country should also know what 's going on '' .
He told Sir Christopher : `` Can I say I share your disappointment as well .
`` I think we should all be informed and the country should also know what 's going on .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock was reprimanded earlier this week for a `` total disregard '' of parliament after the government failed to first announce the new coronavirus restrictions in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The new `` rule of six '' restriction applies to gatherings both indoors and outdoors in England and Scotland , and indoors in Wales .
However , in Wales and Scotland , the measure does not apply to children under the age of 12 but it applies to all ages in England .
Former Conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith called for children not to be counted in England .
`` Kids should not be counted below a certain age , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I would prefer the rule to apply to six adults .
We know how this virus is being spread , and it 's by young people going out and partying in large groups , so target them instead . ''
Sir Graham Brady , the chairman of the 1922 committee of backbench Tory MPs , said : `` If this rule had been debated by parliament it would have been an opportunity to highlight some of the obvious errors , such as the failure to exclude children . ''
Downing Street on Friday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to include children in the six-person limit on social gatherings in England .
Mr Johnson 's official spokesman said : `` We looked at all of the evidence in advance of the decision that was reached on Wednesday and it was decided to proceed with a rule of six that applies to all ages .
`` What we have done is ensure that the rules have been simplified and strengthened so they are easier to understand .
`` Social distancing measures can only be effective if the public understand them and abide by @ @ @

Boris Johnson is under pressure from Conservative MPs over the new "rule of six" coronavirus restrictions - with senior Tories calling for children to not be included in tallies.
From Monday, gatherings of more than six people will be banned in England after the number of daily positive COVID-19 cases in the UK reached almost 3,000.
However, Tory MPs have expressed concerns about the implementation of the new restrictions - and asked why the "draconian" measures are being introduced without being voted on.
The anger has opened up a fresh rift between the prime minister and his party, with Mr Johnson due to address Tory MPs on Zoom later on Friday amid disquiet over his plans to override the Brexit withdrawal deal.
But Downing Street downplayed reports the new measures were also the subject of a cabinet split, following claims that Health Secretary Matt Hancock was the only cabinet minister on the coronavirus strategy committee to support the "rule of six".
The Prime Minister's official spokesman said: "The decision that was made was agreed between the government, in this case the cabinet committee which is responsible for strategy on the coronavirus response, the chief medical officer and the chief scientific adviser."
Commenting on the new "rule of six" measures, New Forest West MP Sir Desmond Swayne told Sky News: "I just think that in a democracy it is absurd that huge interference in our private lives can be made without consultation in parliament, without a vote, without even a debate."
His remarks echoed those of Sir Christopher Chope, the Christchurch MP, who earlier on Friday raised a point of order in the House of Commons to note the government has yet to lay the new COVID-19 regulations before parliament.
"I'm very concerned about the lack of opportunity for people, the public first of all, to see the text of these new regulations and I'm also concerned about the continuing reluctance of the government to give any opportunities to members to debate this," he said.
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"What we are talking about is the most draconian introduction of new restrictions on our liberty with criminal sanctions and we need to be made aware of what's happening and given the opportunity of debating it."
Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle responded that "the country should also know what's going on".
He told Sir Christopher: "Can I say I share your disappointment as well.
"I think we should all be informed and the country should also know what's going on.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock was reprimanded earlier this week for a "total disregard" of parliament after the government failed to first announce the new coronavirus restrictions in the Commons.
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The new "rule of six" restriction applies to gatherings both indoors and outdoors in England and Scotland, and indoors in Wales.
However, in Wales and Scotland, the measure does not apply to children under the age of 12 but it applies to all ages in England.
Former Conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith called for children not to be counted in England.
"Kids should not be counted below a certain age," he told the Daily Telegraph.
"I would prefer the rule to apply to six adults. We know how this virus is being spread, and it's by young people going out and partying in large groups, so target them instead."
Sir Graham Brady, the chairman of the 1922 committee of backbench Tory MPs, said: "If this rule had been debated by parliament it would have been an opportunity to highlight some of the obvious errors, such as the failure to exclude children."
Downing Street on Friday suggested it would not review the decision to include children in the six-person limit on social gatherings in England.
Mr Johnson's official spokesman said: "We looked at all of the evidence in advance of the decision that was reached on Wednesday and it was decided to proceed with a rule of six that applies to all ages.
"What we have done is ensure that the rules have been simplified and strengthened so they are easier to understand.
"Social distancing measures can only be effective if the public understand them and abide by them."


skynewspolitics--2020-09-11--UK strikes agreement with Japan to secure first post-Brexit trade deal

The UK has secured its first post-Brexit trade deal following an agreement with Japan .
The government claimed the agreement will boost trade with Japan by £15.2bn over the next 15 years and UK businesses will enjoy tariff-free trade on 99 % of exports to the country .
International Trade Secretary Liz Truss agreed the deal , in principle , with Japan 's foreign minister Toshimitsu Motegi on a video call on Friday morning .
Ms Truss said the deal `` goes far beyond '' the EU-Japan trade deal that the UK will leave at the end of this year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
She also hailed the agreement as an `` important step '' towards the UK joining a wider 11-nation trade deal , known as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson tweeted : `` We have taken back control of our trade policy & will continue to thrive as a trading nation outside the EU . ''
Government analysis found that a deal with Japan would boost the UK 's GDP by around 0.07 % over 15 years and increase UK workers ' wages by £800m in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as the UK 's negotiations over a post-Brexit trade deal with the EU continue to stall , with both sides admitting on Thursday that `` significant '' differences remain in key areas despite the completion of eight rounds of talks .
: : Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Department for Trade figures reveal that in 2018 the UK 's trade with the EU was worth £659.5bn - while trade with Japan was worth £29.1bn .
Challenged as to whether the estimated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years from a Japan deal was significant - considering it is a fraction of NHS spending - trade minister Greg Hands told Sky News : `` This is the first of what we hope will be a series of deals .
`` Our Conservative manifesto commitment is for 80 % of UK trade to be covered by such deals within the next three years . ''
Ms Truss said on Friday : `` This is a historic moment for the UK and Japan as our first major post-Brexit trade deal .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time and in challenging circumstances - goes far beyond the existing EU deal , as it secures new wins for British businesses in our great manufacturing , food and drink , and tech industries . ''
She added : `` From our automotive workers in Wales to our shoemakers in the North of England , this deal will help build back better as we create new opportunities for people throughout the whole of the UK and help level up our country .
`` Strategically , the deal is an important step towards joining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the centre of a network of modern free trade agreements with like-minded friends and allies . ''
The news of an agreement is a breakthrough after suggestions last month that negotiations had stalled over access to food and agricultural products .
It was reported that the UK had sought better terms for blue cheeses but Japan wanted to keep to existing EU tariffs .
Asked whether the UK will now be able to export more agricultural produce to Japan than it could while an EU member , Mr Hands replied : `` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` We 've secured geographic indicators for 70 products rather than just seven , including Cornish pasties , including Melton Mowbray pork pies - a lot of iconic British produce .
`` In terms of the actual tariff-rate quotas involved , we 've got really good access on pork , on beef .
`` There 's £430m worth of food and drink exports to Japan each year from the UK .
`` We 've got key continuity and improvement across most of those produce , so I think it 's good news @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Liberal Democrat trade spokesperson Christine Jardine MP said : `` '' The agreement 's economic contribution will be a drop in the ocean .
`` The government has failed to leverage any meaningful benefit from its independent trade policy , whilst a deal protecting our EU trade is nowhere in sight .
`` There could n't be a more reckless approach to international trade . ''

The UK has secured its first post-Brexit trade deal following an agreement with Japan.
The government claimed the agreement will boost trade with Japan by £15.2bn over the next 15 years and UK businesses will enjoy tariff-free trade on 99% of exports to the country.
International Trade Secretary Liz Truss agreed the deal, in principle, with Japan's foreign minister Toshimitsu Motegi on a video call on Friday morning.
Image: Ms Truss pictured in talks with Japan Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi in June Pic: Andrew Parsons / 10 Downing Street
Ms Truss said the deal "goes far beyond" the EU-Japan trade deal that the UK will leave at the end of this year, when the Brexit transition period ends.
She also hailed the agreement as an "important step" towards the UK joining a wider 11-nation trade deal, known as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson tweeted: "We have taken back control of our trade policy & will continue to thrive as a trading nation outside the EU."
Government analysis found that a deal with Japan would boost the UK's GDP by around 0.07% over 15 years and increase UK workers' wages by £800m in the long run.
The agreement comes as the UK's negotiations over a post-Brexit trade deal with the EU continue to stall, with both sides admitting on Thursday that "significant" differences remain in key areas despite the completion of eight rounds of talks.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
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Department for Trade figures reveal that in 2018 the UK's trade with the EU was worth £659.5bn - while trade with Japan was worth £29.1bn.
Challenged as to whether the estimated £1.5bn uplift to UK GDP over 15 years from a Japan deal was significant - considering it is a fraction of NHS spending - trade minister Greg Hands told Sky News: "This is the first of what we hope will be a series of deals.
"Our Conservative manifesto commitment is for 80% of UK trade to be covered by such deals within the next three years."
Ms Truss said on Friday: "This is a historic moment for the UK and Japan as our first major post-Brexit trade deal.
"The agreement we have negotiated - in record time and in challenging circumstances - goes far beyond the existing EU deal, as it secures new wins for British businesses in our great manufacturing, food and drink, and tech industries."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:52 Japan deal a 'stepping stone' to CPTPP goal
She added: "From our automotive workers in Wales to our shoemakers in the North of England, this deal will help build back better as we create new opportunities for people throughout the whole of the UK and help level up our country.
"Strategically, the deal is an important step towards joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership and placing Britain at the centre of a network of modern free trade agreements with like-minded friends and allies."
The news of an agreement is a breakthrough after suggestions last month that negotiations had stalled over access to food and agricultural products.
It was reported that the UK had sought better terms for blue cheeses but Japan wanted to keep to existing EU tariffs.
Image: The agreement includes protections for Melton Mowbray pork pies
Asked whether the UK will now be able to export more agricultural produce to Japan than it could while an EU member, Mr Hands replied: "I believe we will."
He added: "We've secured geographic indicators for 70 products rather than just seven, including Cornish pasties, including Melton Mowbray pork pies - a lot of iconic British produce.
"In terms of the actual tariff-rate quotas involved, we've got really good access on pork, on beef.
"There's £430m worth of food and drink exports to Japan each year from the UK.
"We've got key continuity and improvement across most of those produce, so I think it's good news for agricultural exports into Japan."
Emily Thornberry, Labour's shadow international trade secretary, welcomed the UK-Japan agreement.
But she added: "Necessary as this agreement is, the government's over-riding priority has to be securing the oven-ready deal that they promised us with Europe, which Japanese companies like Nissan have told us is crucial to the future of the investment and jobs they bring to Britain."
Liberal Democrat trade spokesperson Christine Jardine MP said: ""The agreement's economic contribution will be a drop in the ocean.
"The government has failed to leverage any meaningful benefit from its independent trade policy, whilst a deal protecting our EU trade is nowhere in sight.
"There couldn't be a more reckless approach to international trade."


skynewspolitics--2020-09-10--Sunak urged to extend furlough scheme - but only in certain cases

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has been urged by a cross-party group of MPs to consider `` targeted extensions '' to the coronavirus furlough scheme .
The wage subsidy scheme , which has supported millions of workers temporarily laid off because of the pandemic , is due to end on 31 October - and some fear that could mean large-scale job losses .
Now the Treasury Select Committee , led by Conservative MP Mel Stride , has joined calls from industry groups and opposition politicians to look at continuing the support in some form .
Mr Stride said : `` The chancellor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and explain his conclusions .
`` The key will be assisting those businesses who , with additional support , can come through the crisis as sustainable enterprises , rather than focusing on those that will unfortunately just not be viable in the changed post-crisis economy . ''
The committee 's latest report on the economic impact of the pandemic also urges further efforts to stimulate consumer spending - following the popularity of the Eat Out To Help Out initiative .
Among other recommendations , it presses the chancellor to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ repairing battered public finances after the crisis .
The report warns against too-hasty tax increases that might stifle an economic recovery but describes lifting the `` triple lock '' guarantee on state pension increases as a `` sensible proposal '' , despite a Conservative manifesto pledge to keep it .
On the furlough scheme , the report cites the needs of `` a large proportion of business in sectors such as hospitality and leisure that are suffering the most from social distancing '' which `` may still have a viable long-term future at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scheme is due to end .
Figures from the Treasury last month showed 9.6 million jobs have been supported by the initiative at a cost so far of more than £35bn .
Mr Sunak has insisted it will not be extended .
Instead , the government has offered a £1,000 bonus to employers for every furloughed worker brought back - though the select committee report said in many cases this will cover employees who would have gone back to work anyway .
Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey has backed an end to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have called for a rethink .
The Treasury said it would `` continue to innovate in supporting incomes and employment through our Plan for Jobs '' , but stopped short of commenting on the report 's recommendations .
: : Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mike Cherry , chairman of the Federation of Small Businesses , said that the government should look closely at a potential successor to the furlough scheme .
He said : `` The priority should be protecting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jobs they provide - that have been disproportionately impacted by the coronavirus crisis . ''
Steve Turner , assistant general secretary of trade union Unite , said : `` Hundreds of thousands of workers could face a desperate future unless the prime minister and chancellor move swiftly to modify the Job Retention Scheme . ''
Germany has agreed to extend a job support scheme for its workers until the end of next year .

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has been urged by a cross-party group of MPs to consider "targeted extensions" to the coronavirus furlough scheme.
The wage subsidy scheme, which has supported millions of workers temporarily laid off because of the pandemic, is due to end on 31 October - and some fear that could mean large-scale job losses.
Now the Treasury Select Committee, led by Conservative MP Mel Stride, has joined calls from industry groups and opposition politicians to look at continuing the support in some form.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:58 Job loss fears as furlough scheme winds down
Mr Stride said: "The chancellor should carefully consider targeted extensions to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and explain his conclusions.
"The key will be assisting those businesses who, with additional support, can come through the crisis as sustainable enterprises, rather than focusing on those that will unfortunately just not be viable in the changed post-crisis economy."
The committee's latest report on the economic impact of the pandemic also urges further efforts to stimulate consumer spending - following the popularity of the Eat Out To Help Out initiative.
Among other recommendations, it presses the chancellor to set out a "roadmap" for repairing battered public finances after the crisis.
The report warns against too-hasty tax increases that might stifle an economic recovery but describes lifting the "triple lock" guarantee on state pension increases as a "sensible proposal", despite a Conservative manifesto pledge to keep it.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:28 Ending furlough 'the most difficult decision'
On the furlough scheme, the report cites the needs of "a large proportion of business in sectors such as hospitality and leisure that are suffering the most from social distancing" which "may still have a viable long-term future at the end of October" when the scheme is due to end.
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Figures from the Treasury last month showed 9.6 million jobs have been supported by the initiative at a cost so far of more than £35bn. Mr Sunak has insisted it will not be extended.
Instead, the government has offered a £1,000 bonus to employers for every furloughed worker brought back - though the select committee report said in many cases this will cover employees who would have gone back to work anyway.
Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey has backed an end to the furlough scheme but others including Labour have called for a rethink.
The Treasury said it would "continue to innovate in supporting incomes and employment through our Plan for Jobs", but stopped short of commenting on the report's recommendations.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
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Mike Cherry, chairman of the Federation of Small Businesses, said that the government should look closely at a potential successor to the furlough scheme.
He said: "The priority should be protecting viable small businesses - and all the jobs they provide - that have been disproportionately impacted by the coronavirus crisis."
Steve Turner, assistant general secretary of trade union Unite, said: "Hundreds of thousands of workers could face a desperate future unless the prime minister and chancellor move swiftly to modify the Job Retention Scheme."
Germany has agreed to extend a job support scheme for its workers until the end of next year.