skynewspolitics--2020-10-01--'They're more careful here than in the UK': Anger as Turkey and Poland added to UK's quarantine list

Holidaymakers are having to cut their trips short after Turkey and Poland were added to the UK 's coronavirus quarantine list , meaning travellers will have to self-isolate for two weeks on their return .
The rules will come into force for people arriving after 4am on Saturday .
The Caribbean islands of Bonaire , St Eustatius and Saba have also been added to the list .
Live updates on coronavirus from US , UK and around world Katrina , who is in Turkey and was meant to be heading home on Saturday , has had to change her flight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I ca n't afford to be in quarantine for two weeks because I have a daughter who is very vulnerable , '' she told Sky News .
`` I would never have come here if I thought it was an unsafe place to be .
My experience here is that everyone has been extremely vigilant , far more than in the UK to be honest , following social distancing and wearing masks - they wear them all the time .
I am so disappointed ...
I have no option but to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ devastated . ''
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps also revealed that from Friday the penalties for people who refuse to self-isolate will be increased to a maximum of £10,000 for repeat offenders .
From this week , isolating is now a legal duty for anyone told to do so .
The quarantine system is meant to stop people from high-risk countries spreading coronavirus in the UK .
Countries with infection rates of 20 per 100,000 people are at particular risk of being added to the list .
The seven-day rate of new coronavirus cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from 15.6 the previous week .
Bonaire , Saint Eustatius and Saba also reported 142.4 new cases per 100,000 , unchanged from the previous week .
Turkey 's rate has dropped to 12.9 cases , down from 14.2 the previous week .
But the Department for Transport said it had been added to the quarantine list in light of the country 's health ministry revealing it has been recording new cases differently to a number of international organisations .
There was no mention of Italy in the announcement , despite its weekly rate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Denmark , Slovakia and Iceland were added to England and Wales ' quarantine lists .
22.5 million people - just over a third of the UK - are now living under enhanced local restrictions after more northern cities were added .
The latest will affect people in the Liverpool city region , Warrington , Hartlepool and Middlesbrough from 12:01am on Saturday .
It bans them from meeting people from other households indoors , including in pubs and restaurants .
As efforts continue to control imported cases , latest test and trace data @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the numbers testing positive , as well as an increase in the overall proportion of positive tests to more than 5 % .
Are you on holiday in Turkey ?
Get in touch with Sky News : : WhatsApp - 07583 000853 : : Email - sky.today @ sky.uk : : 'Your Report ' on Sky News apps


skynewspolitics--2020-10-02--Conservatives desperate for a bit of Boris Johnson sparkle at virtual conference

Ordinarily , conference season is an opportunity for political parties to push the reset button .
The three-day gathering can help leaders heal rifts with tetchy MPs - a relaxed dinner here , a drink with a group of backbenchers there .
Put plainly , party conferences are the perfect place for leaders to score political brownie points with MPs who need a bit of love , But this year conference is online , which means no warm white wine , no packed out keynote speech and crucially no opportunity to hug it out .
After weeks of fractious scenes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MPs lining up to rally against the leadership , this is a much-needed missed opportunity .
So what will the Conservative online conference look like ?
The party has created a virtual venue , designed to mirror the Birmingham conference centre where it would have been held .
Participants can hear fireside chats with the cabinet , panel events with ministers and there are still a wealth of fringe events to attend virtually .
Party co-chair Amanda Milling told Sky News more people have signed up than ever before , perhaps because this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believes it will still be a valuable networking opportunity , as well as a chance to reiterate the party 's 'Build Back Better ' message and dedication to its manifesto .
Critics question the point of a conference where people ca n't meet in person to catch up and take stock , but most accept a virtual event is better than nothing at all .
: : Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The big question for the prime minister is will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ party so desperately wants ?
A bit of that Boris Johnson sparkle .
After months of watching him from behind a screen and a nagging fear that Mr Johnson may have lost his mojo , activists want to know he 's still their man .
They want to feel the groundswell they felt at last year 's event , when the party was riding high on big promises and a renewed sense of optimism in their leader .
And crucially they need a message to take back to voters who backed the party @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the pledges they made to get into parliament wo n't be forgotten in the wake of a global pandemic .
The Conservative Party conference runs from today until Tuesday , with speeches from Dominic Raab , Priti Patel , Rishi Sunak and Boris Johnson .

Ordinarily, conference season is an opportunity for political parties to push the reset button.
The three-day gathering can help leaders heal rifts with tetchy MPs - a relaxed dinner here, a drink with a group of backbenchers there.
Put plainly, party conferences are the perfect place for leaders to score political brownie points with MPs who need a bit of love,
But this year conference is online, which means no warm white wine, no packed out keynote speech and crucially no opportunity to hug it out.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:01 PM bids to head off Tory rebellion over rules
After weeks of fractious scenes in the Commons with over 80 Conservative MPs lining up to rally against the leadership, this is a much-needed missed opportunity.
So what will the Conservative online conference look like?
The party has created a virtual venue, designed to mirror the Birmingham conference centre where it would have been held.
Participants can hear fireside chats with the cabinet, panel events with ministers and there are still a wealth of fringe events to attend virtually.
Party co-chair Amanda Milling told Sky News more people have signed up than ever before, perhaps because this year the event is free.
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She believes it will still be a valuable networking opportunity, as well as a chance to reiterate the party's 'Build Back Better' message and dedication to its manifesto.
Critics question the point of a conference where people can't meet in person to catch up and take stock, but most accept a virtual event is better than nothing at all.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The big question for the prime minister is will he be able to deliver what his party so desperately wants? A bit of that Boris Johnson sparkle.
After months of watching him from behind a screen and a nagging fear that Mr Johnson may have lost his mojo, activists want to know he's still their man.
They want to feel the groundswell they felt at last year's event, when the party was riding high on big promises and a renewed sense of optimism in their leader.
And crucially they need a message to take back to voters who backed the party - many for the first time - that the pledges they made to get into parliament won't be forgotten in the wake of a global pandemic.
The Conservative Party conference runs from today until Tuesday, with speeches from Dominic Raab, Priti Patel, Rishi Sunak and Boris Johnson.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-02--Why are local lockdowns not working as well as the government hoped?

One in four of us is now living under some form of tighter COVID-19 restrictions .
The prime minister may say that a national lockdown is the nuclear option that he does n't want to resort to - but for millions of people who ca n't meet other households indoors , the red button has already been pressed .
But is the strategy working ?
It 's an issue we 've been investigating for this week 's Sophy Ridge On Sunday , combing through the data and speaking to local leaders .
The `` whack-a-mole '' approach , as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus at bay by hitting local areas with restrictions when infections rise .
The trouble is , once stricter restrictions are imposed on particular regions they are rarely lifted - because infection rates keep rising .
Leicester is the only area to record fewer cases than when the measures were implemented .
Boris Johnson recently gave Luton as an example of local lockdowns working .
But although it was released from lockdown after a few days when cases started to fall , they have since started rising and are now above their original @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we have focused for Sunday 's show , things are bleaker .
After enduring nine weeks of increased restrictions , the number of cases has gone up four fold in that time .
When restrictions were brought in , Greater Manchester was seeing between 100 and 150 new cases of COVID-19 each day .
But in recent weeks that number has risen sharply - reaching 826 just 10 days ago .
Some of this rise is down to increased testing of the local population - but not all .
The proportion of coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gone up - suggesting that the increased spread of COVID-19 is genuine .
According to Andy Burnham , the Mayor of Greater Manchester , postcode lockdowns are the new Hotel California - once you 're in , you can never leave .
`` If we are being fair the restrictions had an impact initially , '' he told me .
`` They dampened cases and helped bring them down . ''
But the effectiveness is limited the longer the lockdown goes on , he argued , and cases have since increased .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ control of test and trace .
It still is n't working .
If it was under local control at least our destiny would be in our hands .
We 'd have an incentive to get out of the restrictions .
Right now we feel powerless . ''
So why are n't cases coming down in Greater Manchester , despite nine weeks of restrictions ?
Mr Burnham admitted that `` there are always going to be some people who do n't comply . ''
But he argues that the dissonance between national messages and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of six is different in Greater Manchester ) creates confusion .
He believes we are now at `` a tipping point '' and the government is at risk of losing people 's support for the measures in the north of England .
People in Bolton and Greater Manchester told us about the difficulties of being under such strict rules for so long , talking about their loneliness , their fear for isolated relatives , how hard they find it not being able to go to church or to attend family birthday parties .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and exasperation - `` it feels like people do n't care any more '' ... .
`` people are n't keeping their distance in shops '' ... `` all my mates are going out and stuff , I do n't think it has worked '' .
Whether it 's because of the messaging - genuine confusion - or people frankly just not following the rules ... the figures suggest that local restrictions are n't working in the way the government hoped .
The question now - is what do they do about it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from 8.30am on Sunday , followed by Sophy Ridge : The Take at 9.30am

One in three of us is now living under some form of tighter COVID-19 restrictions.
The prime minister may say that a national lockdown is the nuclear option that he doesn't want to resort to - but for millions of people who can't meet other households indoors, the red button has already been pressed.
But is the strategy working?
It's an issue we've been investigating for this week's Sophy Ridge On Sunday, combing through the data and speaking to local leaders.
The "whack-a-mole" approach, as the PM describes it, involves keeping the virus at bay by hitting local areas with restrictions when infections rise.
The trouble is, once stricter restrictions are imposed on particular regions they are rarely lifted - because infection rates keep rising.
Leicester is the only area to record fewer cases than when the measures were implemented.
Boris Johnson recently gave Luton as an example of local lockdowns working. But although it was released from lockdown after a few days when cases started to fall, they have since started rising and are now above their original level.
In Greater Manchester, where we have focused for Sunday's show, things are bleaker.
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After enduring nine weeks of increased restrictions, the number of cases has gone up four fold in that time.
When restrictions were brought in, Greater Manchester was seeing between 100 and 150 new cases of COVID-19 each day.
But in recent weeks that number has risen sharply - reaching 826 just 10 days ago.
Some of this rise is down to increased testing of the local population - but not all. The proportion of coronavirus tests returning a positive result has also gone up - suggesting that the increased spread of COVID-19 is genuine.
According to Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, postcode lockdowns are the new Hotel California - once you're in, you can never leave.
"If we are being fair the restrictions had an impact initially," he told me. "They dampened cases and helped bring them down."
But the effectiveness is limited the longer the lockdown goes on, he argued, and cases have since increased.
"Local restrictions should come with a local control of test and trace. It still isn't working. If it was under local control at least our destiny would be in our hands. We'd have an incentive to get out of the restrictions. Right now we feel powerless."
So why aren't cases coming down in Greater Manchester, despite nine weeks of restrictions?
Are people simply ignoring the rules?
Mr Burnham admitted that "there are always going to be some people who don't comply."
But he argues that the dissonance between national messages and local restrictions (for example the rule of six is different in Greater Manchester) creates confusion.
He believes we are now at "a tipping point" and the government is at risk of losing people's support for the measures in the north of England.
People in Bolton and Greater Manchester told us about the difficulties of being under such strict rules for so long, talking about their loneliness, their fear for isolated relatives, how hard they find it not being able to go to church or to attend family birthday parties.
Others hinted at a lack of compliance and exasperation - "it feels like people don't care any more".... "people aren't keeping their distance in shops"... "all my mates are going out and stuff, I don't think it has worked".
Whether it's because of the messaging - genuine confusion - or people frankly just not following the rules... the figures suggest that local restrictions aren't working in the way the government hoped.
The question now - is what do they do about it?
Watch Sophy Ridge On Sunday live from 8.30am on Sunday, followed by Sophy Ridge: The Take at 9.30am


skynewspolitics--2020-10-02--Police investigate MP who travelled hundreds of miles with coronavirus

MP Margaret Ferrier is to be investigated by the police after she travelled between London and Glasgow despite knowing she had coronavirus .
A statement said : `` Following consultation with Police Scotland , officers from the Metropolitan Police , working with British Transport Police , are conducting an investigation into potential offences . ''
The SNP politician travelled from Scotland to London on Monday .
She said she had made the journey because she felt much better after having COVID-19 symptoms and getting a test .
Ms Ferrier found out she was positive after making a speech in parliament @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of miles home by train .
She said there was `` no excuse for my actions '' and apologised `` unreservedly for breaching COVID-19 restrictions by travelling this week when I should n't have '' .
Live updates on coronavirus from US , UK and around world Ms Ferrier has already been kicked out of the SNP parliamentary party but is facing calls to leave the Commons completely .
Another MP , the DUP 's Jim Shannon , was later identified as a `` close contact '' and had a test on Thursday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is now self-isolating `` as a precaution '' .
Sir Lindsay Hoyle , the speaker of the Commons , said Ms Ferrier 's actions were a `` serious breach '' of safety in parliament and that there would be a `` review '' of the rules .
`` We believed there had been a breach of the law , '' he told Sky News .
`` People make mistakes but there is something completely different when they act in a reckless manner . ''
Nicola Sturgeon , Scotland 's first minister and leader @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told Ms Ferrier she `` should step down as an MP '' .
She tweeted : `` I did so with a heavy heart - she is a friend and colleague - but her actions were dangerous and indefensible .
`` I have no power to force an MP to resign but I hope she will do the right thing . ''
Earlier , the SNP 's Westminster leader , Ian Blackford , said he was `` gobsmacked '' by Ms Ferrier 's behaviour .
`` I do n't have any powers over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MP to resign , '' he told Sky News ' Kay Burley show .
But he added : `` I think Margaret has got to reflect on her position as an MP .
She knows we will be judged by our actions ... '' I have to say , when you have a breach such as this it 's really important that you take your own responsibilities .
: : Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' Margaret 's an honourable individual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's that honour and dignity that you have to have as a public official , and I think it 's pretty clear Margaret should do the right thing .
`` I ca n't compel her to do that but she has to reflect on the circumstances that she 's put herself and other people in . ''
Under the coronavirus rules , anyone who has symptoms should isolate until their test results come through and only be released if it comes back negative .
Ms Ferrier disregarded that - and also the duty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at home , opting instead to take a train from Westminster to Glasgow .
The Rutherglen and Hamilton West MP , who won her seat from Labour in the 2019 election , has faced calls to quit from other SNP politicians , including David Linden - who said her position is not `` tenable '' - and Kirsty Blackman who said her `` actions can not be overlooked '' .
A quick investigation as to whom Ms Ferrier could have infected identified one close contact - who has luckily tested negative , Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a fine of up to £4,000 under a new law that came into force on the day of her positive test .
Her actions follow other high-profile figures breaking the rules , including former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn who attended a dinner party with eight other people - breaching the rule of six .
And Dominic Cummings , Boris Johnson 's top adviser , made headlines in spring for travelling 260 miles from London to Durham during lockdown .

MP Margaret Ferrier is to be investigated by the police after she travelled between London and Glasgow despite knowing she had coronavirus.
A statement said: "Following consultation with Police Scotland, officers from the Metropolitan Police, working with British Transport Police, are conducting an investigation into potential offences."
The SNP politician travelled from Scotland to London on Monday.
She said she had made the journey because she felt much better after having COVID-19 symptoms and getting a test.
Ms Ferrier found out she was positive after making a speech in parliament, but still decided to travel hundreds of miles home by train.
She said there was "no excuse for my actions" and apologised "unreservedly for breaching COVID-19 restrictions by travelling this week when I shouldn't have".
Live updates on coronavirus from US, UK and around world
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:50 'Ferrier should reflect on her position as MP'
Ms Ferrier has already been kicked out of the SNP parliamentary party but is facing calls to leave the Commons completely.
Another MP, the DUP's Jim Shannon, was later identified as a "close contact" and had a test on Thursday that returned a negative result, but is now self-isolating "as a precaution".
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Sir Lindsay Hoyle, the speaker of the Commons, said Ms Ferrier's actions were a "serious breach" of safety in parliament and that there would be a "review" of the rules.
"We believed there had been a breach of the law," he told Sky News.
"People make mistakes but there is something completely different when they act in a reckless manner."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:46 Speaker condemns MP with COVID
Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland's first minister and leader of the SNP, said she had told Ms Ferrier she "should step down as an MP".
She tweeted: "I did so with a heavy heart - she is a friend and colleague - but her actions were dangerous and indefensible.
"I have no power to force an MP to resign but I hope she will do the right thing."
Image: Ms Sturgeon has told the Rutherglen and Hamilton West MP to quit
Earlier, the SNP's Westminster leader, Ian Blackford, said he was "gobsmacked" by Ms Ferrier's behaviour.
"I don't have any powers over her... I can't force an MP to resign," he told Sky News' Kay Burley show.
But he added: "I think Margaret has got to reflect on her position as an MP. She knows we will be judged by our actions...
"I have to say, when you have a breach such as this it's really important that you take your own responsibilities.
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"Margaret's an honourable individual... there is that responsibility - there's that honour and dignity that you have to have as a public official, and I think it's pretty clear Margaret should do the right thing.
"I can't compel her to do that but she has to reflect on the circumstances that she's put herself and other people in."
Image: The MP traveled from Glasgow to London and back again
Under the coronavirus rules, anyone who has symptoms should isolate until their test results come through and only be released if it comes back negative.
Ms Ferrier disregarded that - and also the duty for anyone who tests positive to stay at home, opting instead to take a train from Westminster to Glasgow.
The Rutherglen and Hamilton West MP, who won her seat from Labour in the 2019 election, has faced calls to quit from other SNP politicians, including David Linden - who said her position is not "tenable" - and Kirsty Blackman who said her "actions cannot be overlooked".
A quick investigation as to whom Ms Ferrier could have infected identified one close contact - who has luckily tested negative, Mr Blackford told Sky News.
Image: Ms Ferrier made a speech in parliament despite not having had her test result back
She faces a fine of up to £4,000 under a new law that came into force on the day of her positive test.
Her actions follow other high-profile figures breaking the rules, including former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn who attended a dinner party with eight other people - breaching the rule of six.
And Dominic Cummings, Boris Johnson's top adviser, made headlines in spring for travelling 260 miles from London to Durham during lockdown.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-02--'Persistent' differences remain says EU as Brexit talks deadline looms

Big differences remain in post-Brexit trade talks with the UK , Brussels ' chief negotiator has said .
As the deadline for cutting an agreement looms , Michel Barnier welcomed some `` positive new developments '' following this week 's negotiations in Brussels .
But he warned there had been a `` lack of progress '' on issues like climate change commitments and `` persistent , serious divergences on matters of major importance for the EU '' .
`` We will continue to maintain a calm and respectful attitude , and we will remain united and determined until the end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added in a statement released on Friday .
The UK 's Brexit negotiator , Lord David Frost , said the `` outlines '' of a free trade agreement with the EU are now `` visible '' , but `` familiar differences `` remain and he is concerned there is `` very little time '' left .
Fisheries remain a major sticking point , although he said there had been `` some limited progress '' on the issue of state aid and a law enforcement agreement .
But the EU needs to `` move @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an agreement , '' he added .
He said the ninth round of negotiations was `` constructive '' and conducted in `` good spirits '' , but the UK is still seeking an agreement `` that ensures our ability to set our own laws without constraints that go beyond those appropriate to a free trade deal '' .
Lord Frost said that is true of most of the core areas of a trade and economic agreement - notably trade in goods and services , transport , energy , social security , and participation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the gap between us is unfortunately very large and , without further realism and flexibility from the EU , risks being impossible to bridge .
These issues are fundamental to our future status as an independent country , '' he said .
`` I am concerned that there is very little time now to resolve these issues ahead of the European Council on October 15 . ''
The latest round of negotiations come ahead of talks between the head of the EU Commission , President Ursula von der Leyen , and Prime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A Number 10 spokesperson said it is to `` take stock of negotiations and discuss next steps '' .
While the two leaders will likely be focusing on trade talks to hammer out an agreement before the transition period runs out at the end of 2020 , Ms von der Leyen 's action yesterday will inevitably feature .
She accused Mr Johnson of breaching the `` good faith '' part of the Withdrawal Agreement , by drawing up a plan to override it in the event trade talks are unsuccessful .
A minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ law .
: : Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Both the UK and the EU need to agree a deal by a 15 October deadline - the next meeting of all EU leaders where they would gather to sign it off .
Mr Johnson has said previously he is prepared for there to be no deal .
It has also emerged that European Council President Charles Michel will visit Ireland next week for a meeting with Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to put their cards on the table' Analysis by Michelle Clifford , Europe correspondent Would n't you like to eavesdrop on that Saturday morning conversation between the man and woman either side of the Channel trying to deliver a Brexit deal with so little time left .
That they are talking at all has to be seen as a positive .
The call between the two will come just two days after the EU launched legal proceedings against the UK over its plans to override parts of the withdrawal agreement .
One imagines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for some firm words about that but the aim of the call is for the two to `` take stock '' of this week 's negotiations and figure out the next steps with just weeks left now until a deal is supposed to be decided .
The EU has remained tight-lipped about talk of some progress from the UK side but has acknowledged there are still significant gaps between their positions .
Will a frank conversation between the two shove things in the right direction ?
Negotiation teams have been hard at it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and UK chief negotiators met today .
But it 's now time for those at the top of the talks to put their cards well and truly on the table .

Big differences remain in post-Brexit trade talks with the UK, Brussels' chief negotiator has said.
As the deadline for cutting an agreement looms, Michel Barnier welcomed some "positive new developments" following this week's negotiations in Brussels.
But he warned there had been a "lack of progress" on issues like climate change commitments and "persistent, serious divergences on matters of major importance for the EU".
"We will continue to maintain a calm and respectful attitude, and we will remain united and determined until the end of these negotiations," Mr Barnier added in a statement released on Friday.
Image: Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen will speak on Saturday afternoon
The UK's Brexit negotiator, Lord David Frost, said the "outlines" of a free trade agreement with the EU are now "visible", but "familiar differences " remain and he is concerned there is "very little time" left.
Fisheries remain a major sticking point, although he said there had been "some limited progress" on the issue of state aid and a law enforcement agreement.
But the EU needs to "move further" if there was to be an agreement," he added.
He said the ninth round of negotiations was "constructive" and conducted in "good spirits", but the UK is still seeking an agreement "that ensures our ability to set our own laws without constraints that go beyond those appropriate to a free trade deal".
Lord Frost said that is true of most of the core areas of a trade and economic agreement - notably trade in goods and services, transport, energy, social security, and participation in EU programmes.
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"On fisheries, the gap between us is unfortunately very large and, without further realism and flexibility from the EU, risks being impossible to bridge. These issues are fundamental to our future status as an independent country," he said.
"I am concerned that there is very little time now to resolve these issues ahead of the European Council on October 15."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:03 EU: PM breaching 'good faith' of Brexit deal
The latest round of negotiations come ahead of talks between the head of the EU Commission, President Ursula von der Leyen, and Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday afternoon.
A Number 10 spokesperson said it is to "take stock of negotiations and discuss next steps".
While the two leaders will likely be focusing on trade talks to hammer out an agreement before the transition period runs out at the end of 2020, Ms von der Leyen's action yesterday will inevitably feature.
She accused Mr Johnson of breaching the "good faith" part of the Withdrawal Agreement, by drawing up a plan to override it in the event trade talks are unsuccessful.
A minister has admitted the move would break international law.
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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Both the UK and the EU need to agree a deal by a 15 October deadline - the next meeting of all EU leaders where they would gather to sign it off.
Mr Johnson has said previously he is prepared for there to be no deal.
It has also emerged that European Council President Charles Michel will visit Ireland next week for a meeting with Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin.
Image: Brexit trade talks are nearing the deadline
'Time for those at the top to put their cards on the table'
Analysis by Michelle Clifford, Europe correspondent
Wouldn't you like to eavesdrop on that Saturday morning conversation between the man and woman either side of the Channel trying to deliver a Brexit deal with so little time left.
That they are talking at all has to be seen as a positive.
The call between the two will come just two days after the EU launched legal proceedings against the UK over its plans to override parts of the withdrawal agreement.
One imagines there will be some time set aside for some firm words about that but the aim of the call is for the two to "take stock" of this week's negotiations and figure out the next steps with just weeks left now until a deal is supposed to be decided.
The EU has remained tight-lipped about talk of some progress from the UK side but has acknowledged there are still significant gaps between their positions.
Will a frank conversation between the two shove things in the right direction?
Negotiation teams have been hard at it in Brussels all week. The EU and UK chief negotiators met today.
But it's now time for those at the top of the talks to put their cards well and truly on the table.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-03--Raab tells party conference he feared Boris Johnson could die from coronavirus

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has told a virtual Conservative conference he feared Boris Johnson could have died of coronavirus .
Mr Raab stood in for the prime minister after Mr Johnson was admitted to intensive care following his COVID-19 diagnosis in the spring .
Watched on screens by delegates , the First Secretary of State told the conference : `` It nearly took the life of our prime minister , our friend as well as our leader .
`` I get asked a lot how I felt , when I covered for him .
`` Well , I really worried @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was worried for Carrie ( Symonds ) , pregnant with baby Wilf .
`` But I always had faith that with the outstanding NHS care he received and his fighting spirit , he 'd pull through . ''
As US President Donald Trump was being treated in hospital after becoming infected with the virus , Mr Raab revealed he was anxious Mr Johnson could have been one of the tens of thousands killed by the illness in the UK .
Mr Johnson admitted , after his release from hospital on Easter Sunday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , saying `` it could have gone either way '' .
He has since tried to lose weight , having found out it is those who are obese who are more at risk .
In an interview with the Daily Telegraph , the prime minister said he had lost almost two stone .
`` I try not to eat too much sometimes , and it 's basically about taking lots of exercise and not eating so much , '' he told the paper .
He also told the BBC that claims he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` sinister disinformation '' .
Rumours circulated over the last few months that the prime minister would not see out a full-term in office because he was struggling in the wake of his coronavirus battle .
During his conference speech , Mr Raab said he felt the need to pray that the country would be `` equal '' to the `` greatest challenge in a generation '' as the pandemic took hold .
He admitted there were `` lessons to be learnt '' in the wake of the crisis , and added : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ every hurdle we faced , with every heart-rending loss , there was also a tale of courage , a moment of inspiration . ''
Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove , also speaking at the Tory Party conference , said the Conservative leader had made an `` amazing recovery '' and said the prime minister was the `` livest wire in the room '' .
Mr Gove used his conference speech to add that he wants to move large government departments out of London to support Boris Johnson 's so-called `` levelling-up '' agenda @ @ @ @ @ @ @ civil servants to be `` closer to where the action is '' , and he argued home-working during the pandemic proves the upheaval can work .
The virtual Conservative conference opened on Saturday , with the announcement that the party plans to open a second headquarters in Leeds in a bid to `` show our commitment to the blue wall seats '' , co-party chairman Amanda Milling said .
She added the aim was to have the headquarters open next year .
Mr Gove has said the Civil Service should follow suit as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of London .

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has told a virtual Conservative conference he feared Boris Johnson could have died of coronavirus.
Mr Raab stood in for the prime minister after Mr Johnson was admitted to intensive care following his COVID-19 diagnosis in the spring.
Watched on screens by delegates, the First Secretary of State told the conference: "It nearly took the life of our prime minister, our friend as well as our leader.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:12 PM's appeal to the nation
"I get asked a lot how I felt, when I covered for him.
"Well, I really worried we might lose him, and I was worried for Carrie (Symonds), pregnant with baby Wilf.
"But I always had faith that with the outstanding NHS care he received and his fighting spirit, he'd pull through."
As US President Donald Trump was being treated in hospital after becoming infected with the virus, Mr Raab revealed he was anxious Mr Johnson could have been one of the tens of thousands killed by the illness in the UK.
Mr Johnson admitted, after his release from hospital on Easter Sunday, that his life had been in peril, saying "it could have gone either way".
He has since tried to lose weight, having found out it is those who are obese who are more at risk.
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In an interview with the Daily Telegraph, the prime minister said he had lost almost two stone.
Image: Mr Johnson was treated at St Thomas' Hospital in London
"I try not to eat too much sometimes, and it's basically about taking lots of exercise and not eating so much," he told the paper.
He also told the BBC that claims he was planning to step down next year were "sinister disinformation".
Rumours circulated over the last few months that the prime minister would not see out a full-term in office because he was struggling in the wake of his coronavirus battle.
During his conference speech, Mr Raab said he felt the need to pray that the country would be "equal" to the "greatest challenge in a generation" as the pandemic took hold.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:01 PM bids to head off Tory rebellion over rules
He admitted there were "lessons to be learnt" in the wake of the crisis, and added: "I have to say, for every hurdle we faced, with every heart-rending loss, there was also a tale of courage, a moment of inspiration."
Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove, also speaking at the Tory Party conference, said the Conservative leader had made an "amazing recovery" and said the prime minister was the "livest wire in the room".
Mr Gove used his conference speech to add that he wants to move large government departments out of London to support Boris Johnson's so-called "levelling-up" agenda.
He said it is time for civil servants to be "closer to where the action is", and he argued home-working during the pandemic proves the upheaval can work.
The virtual Conservative conference opened on Saturday, with the announcement that the party plans to open a second headquarters in Leeds in a bid to "show our commitment to the blue wall seats", co-party chairman Amanda Milling said.
She added the aim was to have the headquarters open next year. Mr Gove has said the Civil Service should follow suit as the party looks to create jobs outside of London.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-03--'Significant gaps' remain between UK and EU on Brexit deal, Ursula von der Leyen warns

`` Significant gaps remain '' between the UK and the EU as Brexit negotiations continue , the European Commission 's president said , but talks will continue in an attempt to strike a deal .
On Twitter , Ursula von der Leyen said she has had a `` good phone call '' with Boris Johnson , during which they discussed how negotiations have been progressing so far .
The pair spoke via video conference and said afterwards they have told their chief negotiators to continue to push `` intensively '' to strike a post-Brexit trade agreement .
A joint statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Johnson said : `` They agreed on the importance of finding an agreement , if at all possible , as a strong basis for a strategic EU-UK relationship in future .
`` They endorsed the assessment of both chief negotiators that progress had been made in recent weeks but that significant gaps remained , notably but not only in the areas of fisheries , the level playing field , and governance .
`` They instructed their chief negotiators to work intensively in order to try to bridge those gaps .
`` They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on this issue . ''
The talks that took place last week were said to be the final scheduled round before the prime minister 's deadline for securing a deal of the EU Council meeting on 15 October - a date that is only 12 days away .
Mr Johnson said earlier on Saturday the UK would go on pushing for a Canada-style deal with the EU , but would also be ready to end its current trade ties and default to general World Trade Organisation rules , which include quotas and tariffs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there 's a good deal to be done .
There 's a big opportunity for both sides to do well . ''
The EU too has said a deal must be sealed by the end of October to leave enough time for ratification by the end of this year .
With this in mind , Mr Johnson and the EC president have now tasked chief negotiators , Britain 's Lord Frost and the EU 's Michel Barnier with getting back together and pushing to strike a deal before time runs out .
Lord @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the PM 's office instructs him and Mr Barnier to work intensively to bridge the gap between them and that they would begin as soon as they could .
Reuters reported that more trade talks are due in London next week and in Brussels the following week before the 27 national EU leaders meet to assess progress .
An estimated trillion euros worth of annual trade are at stake if they fail to reach a deal .
The EU says it will not implement any agreement if London undermines the earlier Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bill .
On Friday , Mr Barnier warned there had been a `` lack of progress '' on issues like climate change commitments and `` persistent , serious divergences on matters of major importance for the EU '' .
`` We will continue to maintain a calm and respectful attitude , and we will remain united and determined until the end of these negotiations , '' Mr Barnier added in a statement .
On Thursday , the EU started legal action against Mr Johnson 's bid to potentially override parts of the Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is breaching the `` good faith '' promise both sides signed up to in the withdrawal agreement struck and passed by parliament last year .

"Significant gaps remain" between the UK and the EU as Brexit negotiations continue, the European Commission's president said, but talks will continue in an attempt to strike a deal.
On Twitter, Ursula von der Leyen said she has had a "good phone call" with Boris Johnson, during which they discussed how negotiations have been progressing so far.
The pair spoke via video conference and said afterwards they have told their chief negotiators to continue to push "intensively" to strike a post-Brexit trade agreement.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:39 Brexit: Truckers permit to enter Kent
A joint statement issued by Ms von der Leyen and Mr Johnson said: "They agreed on the importance of finding an agreement, if at all possible, as a strong basis for a strategic EU-UK relationship in future.
"They endorsed the assessment of both chief negotiators that progress had been made in recent weeks but that significant gaps remained, notably but not only in the areas of fisheries, the level playing field, and governance.
"They instructed their chief negotiators to work intensively in order to try to bridge those gaps.
"They agreed to speak on a regular basis on this issue."
The talks that took place last week were said to be the final scheduled round before the prime minister's deadline for securing a deal of the EU Council meeting on 15 October - a date that is only 12 days away.
Mr Johnson said earlier on Saturday the UK would go on pushing for a Canada-style deal with the EU, but would also be ready to end its current trade ties and default to general World Trade Organisation rules, which include quotas and tariffs.
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He said: "I think there's a good deal to be done. There's a big opportunity for both sides to do well."
The EU too has said a deal must be sealed by the end of October to leave enough time for ratification by the end of this year.
With this in mind, Mr Johnson and the EC president have now tasked chief negotiators, Britain's Lord Frost and the EU's Michel Barnier with getting back together and pushing to strike a deal before time runs out.
Lord Frost said that the joint statement issued by the PM's office instructs him and Mr Barnier to work intensively to bridge the gap between them and that they would begin as soon as they could.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:36 Gove adamant over Brexit 'safety net' clauses
Reuters reported that more trade talks are due in London next week and in Brussels the following week before the 27 national EU leaders meet to assess progress.
An estimated trillion euros worth of annual trade are at stake if they fail to reach a deal.
The EU says it will not implement any agreement if London undermines the earlier Brexit divorce treaty with its draft Internal Market Bill.
On Friday, Mr Barnier warned there had been a "lack of progress" on issues like climate change commitments and "persistent, serious divergences on matters of major importance for the EU".
"We will continue to maintain a calm and respectful attitude, and we will remain united and determined until the end of these negotiations," Mr Barnier added in a statement.
On Thursday, the EU started legal action against Mr Johnson's bid to potentially override parts of the Brexit deal.
Brussels claims the prime minister is breaching the "good faith" promise both sides signed up to in the withdrawal agreement struck and passed by parliament last year.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-01--Does it matter that the EU is suing the UK?

The fact that the European Commission is starting legal proceedings against the British government certainly sounds impressive - but is this really a decisive moment - or just a bit of theatre ?
On the one hand , this sort of legal move - known as an infringement procedure - is relatively routine .
British government sources were quick to point out that , in 2019 , there were around 800 infringement cases in play involving the 27 member states of the European Union .
This is the 94th such action that has been opened against the United Kingdom since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of them are still unresolved .
But the flip side is that plenty of these are about very particular things - trade disputes , or interpretations of a select piece of EU law .
The procedure initiated today against the UK is different .
Why so ?
Well it involves an allegation that has caused so much anger that it has done a remarkable job of uniting Europe 's politicians , almost regardless of their politics or geography .
The accusation is breaching trust , by threatening the Withdrawal Agreement .
That agreement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heart of European politics .
It took years to agree and involved negotiations with every member state .
The idea that it can now be rewritten is seen as fanciful .
But the concept of it being ignored is considered offensive by many here .
You do n't have to take my word for it .
This afternoon , an extremely senior EU diplomat , closely involved in these talks , sent me a message expressing quiet fury about the effect of the Internal Market Bill .
They said : `` The Withdrawal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ international law and the mere fact of this infringement , and the statement of intent in this bill , will be negative for the reputation of the UK as a trusted international partner .
`` Yes , infringements are common within the EU .
Every member state racks them up , but this one is of a different order '' , they continued .
It revolves entirely around the idea of `` good faith '' , which is written there in Articles 4 and 5 , right at the start of the Agreement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from any measures which could jeopardise the attainment of the objectives of this Agreement '' .
According to the EU , that is exactly what the Internal Market Bill does .
So there is widespread anger .
But not everywhere .
The Dutch Prime Minister , Mark Rutte , described the legal action as a matter of procedure ; little more than an act of administration .
A nuisance rather than a calamity .
And for all the acrimony that has been expressed , you might argue that this is a tough negotiation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part and parcel of the joust .
Does that matter ?
Could it , in fact , bash some heads together and force progress ?
From Brussels , it is quite hard to see how it has actually helped push negotiations forward .
But equally , away from the political rows , it does not seem to have hindered the actual trade talks .
Lord Frost and Michel Barnier have kept meeting , so have their teams .
There are whispers of progress about fishing rights and state aid , the two notable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of legal action should probably best be seen as a mass of smoke symbols .
In Westminster , the government can say it is enacting protective legislation and will not be cowed by the European Union .
In Brussels , politicians can say they are united in standing up for the Withdrawal Agreement .
Both messages suit the respective leaders .
What will push progress on trade talks is the clock .
The shared assumption that a deal needs to have been agreed by the end of the month .
That , rather @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is what diplomats talk to me about .
: : Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Today , I asked a senior diplomat from a major EU country , to assess the likelihood of a deal .
`` Impossible to call , '' came the reply .
The threat of legal action gives us an insight into the fractious state of talks , but if a deal is completed by the end of this year , then these infringement proceedings will quickly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a much bigger story .

The fact that the European Commission is starting legal proceedings against the British government certainly sounds impressive - but is this really a decisive moment - or just a bit of theatre?
On the one hand, this sort of legal move - known as an infringement procedure - is relatively routine.
British government sources were quick to point out that, in 2019, there were around 800 infringement cases in play involving the 27 member states of the European Union.
This is the 94th such action that has been opened against the United Kingdom since it joined the EU, and many of them are still unresolved.
But the flip side is that plenty of these are about very particular things - trade disputes, or interpretations of a select piece of EU law.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 5:59 EU taking legal action against UK
The procedure initiated today against the UK is different. Why so?
Well it involves an allegation that has caused so much anger that it has done a remarkable job of uniting Europe's politicians, almost regardless of their politics or geography.
The accusation is breaching trust, by threatening the Withdrawal Agreement.
That agreement has an almost sacred place in the heart of European politics. It took years to agree and involved negotiations with every member state.
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The idea that it can now be rewritten is seen as fanciful. But the concept of it being ignored is considered offensive by many here. You don't have to take my word for it.
Image: The EU is taking legal action over Boris Johnson's controversial Internal Market Bill
This afternoon, an extremely senior EU diplomat, closely involved in these talks, sent me a message expressing quiet fury about the effect of the Internal Market Bill.
They said: "The Withdrawal Agreement is a treaty, grounded in international law and the mere fact of this infringement, and the statement of intent in this bill, will be negative for the reputation of the UK as a trusted international partner.
"Yes, infringements are common within the EU. Every member state racks them up, but this one is of a different order", they continued.
It revolves entirely around the idea of "good faith", which is written there in Articles 4 and 5, right at the start of the Agreement.
It compels parties to "refrain from any measures which could jeopardise the attainment of the objectives of this Agreement".
According to the EU, that is exactly what the Internal Market Bill does. So there is widespread anger. But not everywhere.
The Dutch Prime Minister, Mark Rutte, described the legal action as a matter of procedure; little more than an act of administration. A nuisance rather than a calamity.
And for all the acrimony that has been expressed, you might argue that this is a tough negotiation and bruised feelings and legal threats are part and parcel of the joust.
Does that matter? Could it, in fact, bash some heads together and force progress?
From Brussels, it is quite hard to see how it has actually helped push negotiations forward. But equally, away from the political rows, it does not seem to have hindered the actual trade talks.
Lord Frost and Michel Barnier have kept meeting, so have their teams. There are whispers of progress about fishing rights and state aid, the two notable sticking points.
Instead, the spectre of legal action should probably best be seen as a mass of smoke symbols.
In Westminster, the government can say it is enacting protective legislation and will not be cowed by the European Union.
In Brussels, politicians can say they are united in standing up for the Withdrawal Agreement. Both messages suit the respective leaders.
What will push progress on trade talks is the clock. The shared assumption that a deal needs to have been agreed by the end of the month. That, rather than the threat of legal action, is what diplomats talk to me about.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Today, I asked a senior diplomat from a major EU country, to assess the likelihood of a deal.
"Impossible to call," came the reply.
"It's 50-50."
The threat of legal action gives us an insight into the fractious state of talks, but if a deal is completed by the end of this year, then these infringement proceedings will quickly be forgotten as a side show to a much bigger story.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-04--Coronavirus pandemic 'will be bumpy through to Christmas and maybe beyond', PM warns

The coronavirus pandemic `` will be bumpy through to Christmas '' and potentially beyond that , Boris Johnson has warned , as he said it is `` too early to say '' whether local lockdowns are working .
The prime minister acknowledged there will be some members of the public who are `` furious at me '' and `` furious at the government '' amid the continuing COVID-19 restrictions .
`` I 've got to tell you in all candour it 's going to continue to be bumpy through to Christmas , it may even be bumpy beyond , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BBC 's Andrew Marr Show .
`` But this is the only way to do it . ''
Mr Johnson said the government was `` working flat out '' to allow for an easing of coronavirus restrictions in time for the festive period , but he again cautioned : `` Be in no doubt that it is still very possible that there are bumpy , bumpy months ahead .
`` This could be a very tough winter for all of us - we 've got to face that fact . ''
He also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effects of coronavirus - which left him in intensive care back in April - or suffering from `` long '' COVID , saying : `` This is total tittle tattle , it is drivel .
It is not tittle tattle , it is balderdash and nonsense .
`` I can tell you I 'm fitter than several butchers ' dogs . ''
In a bid to offer some optimism , the PM said he believed `` very strongly '' that the `` scientific equation '' surrounding the virus will change in the coming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ start to see progress , whether it is on vaccines or on testing , that will enable us to take a different approach '' .
He said it is a `` possibility '' that there will be `` significant progress '' on a vaccine this year , but he does not `` want to get people 's hopes up on the vaccine unnecessarily '' .
Mr Johnson expressed hope of a `` radically different '' situation by the spring , saying : `` We will find all sorts of ways , I 'm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ programmes , of changing the way that we tackle this virus . ''
On local lockdowns , Mr Johnson was asked specifically about Oldham , which has seen its infection rate double despite being under tighter restrictions for the past six weeks .
`` The advice that we 're getting is that in these areas where we 've got stringent local lockdowns , we 've got to wait and see if the R number starts to come down , '' he said .
His interview came after government figures showed there were a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK as of 9am on Saturday .
A technical glitch may mean that the actual daily figure is somewhat smaller .
The PM also admitted that the NHS test and trace service for coronavirus cases is `` not perfect '' and that he is `` frustrated '' with it .
But he insisted he does not blame NHS test and trace and takes `` full responsibility for the service '' .
Mr Johnson said he understood people 's `` frustration '' at differing rules and restrictions for different parts of the country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for everything that 's happened since the pandemic began '' .
He said one of the alternatives he had heard suggested was to `` let it rip '' , something Mr Johnson said he `` just ca n't accept '' .
`` And as prime minister I could n't take a course that could expose us to tens of thousands more deaths in very short order , '' he said .
Responding to criticism from his own backbenchers about the wide-ranging nature of the restrictions and their economic impact , the PM said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I do n't want to have to impose measures like this , are you crazy ?
`` This is the last thing we want to do .
But I also have to save life .
And that 's our priority . ''
One aspect of the latest COVID-19 restrictions that has come in for criticism is the 10pm curfew for pubs , bars and restaurants .
Asked about this in his Marr interview , the PM defended the rule and blamed people who chose to `` hobnob '' outside establishments after hours @ @ @ @ @ @ @ centres around closing time .
`` Obviously it makes no sense if , having followed the guidance for all the time in the pub they then pour out into the street and hobnob in such a way as to spread the virus , '' Mr Johnson said .
The PM said it had been `` put to us '' that bringing in a 10pm curfew could help reduce the transmission of the virus , but he did not elaborate on who had suggested it to ministers .
: : Subscribe to the Daily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Johnson was also questioned about the government 's Eat Out To Help Out Scheme - and whether it had unwittingly spread coronavirus further .
He did not dismiss the possibility , saying : `` It was very important to keep those jobs going .
`` Now , if it , insofar as that scheme may have helped to spread the virus , then obviously we need to counteract that and we need to counteract that with the discipline and the measures that we 're proposing . ''

The coronavirus pandemic "will be bumpy through to Christmas" and potentially beyond that, Boris Johnson has warned, as he said it is "too early to say" whether local lockdowns are working.
The prime minister acknowledged there will be some members of the public who are "furious at me" and "furious at the government" amid the continuing COVID-19 restrictions.
"I've got to tell you in all candour it's going to continue to be bumpy through to Christmas, it may even be bumpy beyond," he said in an interview with the BBC's Andrew Marr Show.
Image: Boris Johnson said he believed the 'scientific equation' surrounding the virus will change in the coming weeks and months
"But this is the only way to do it."
Mr Johnson said the government was "working flat out" to allow for an easing of coronavirus restrictions in time for the festive period, but he again cautioned: "Be in no doubt that it is still very possible that there are bumpy, bumpy months ahead.
"This could be a very tough winter for all of us - we've got to face that fact."
He also rejected suggestions he was still feeling the effects of coronavirus - which left him in intensive care back in April - or suffering from "long" COVID, saying: "This is total tittle tattle, it is drivel. It is not tittle tattle, it is balderdash and nonsense.
"I can tell you I'm fitter than several butchers' dogs."
In a bid to offer some optimism, the PM said he believed "very strongly" that the "scientific equation" surrounding the virus will change in the coming weeks and months and "we will start to see progress, whether it is on vaccines or on testing, that will enable us to take a different approach".
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 10:05 Minister claims local lockdowns 'are working'
He said it is a "possibility" that there will be "significant progress" on a vaccine this year, but he does not "want to get people's hopes up on the vaccine unnecessarily".
Mr Johnson expressed hope of a "radically different" situation by the spring, saying: "We will find all sorts of ways, I'm absolutely sure, particularly through mass testing programmes, of changing the way that we tackle this virus."
On local lockdowns, Mr Johnson was asked specifically about Oldham, which has seen its infection rate double despite being under tighter restrictions for the past six weeks.
"The advice that we're getting is that in these areas where we've got stringent local lockdowns, we've got to wait and see if the R number starts to come down," he said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:32 Coronavirus: Students in Newcastle fear outbreak
His interview came after government figures showed there were a further 12,872 lab-confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the UK as of 9am on Saturday.
A technical glitch may mean that the actual daily figure is somewhat smaller, something Mr Johnson described as a "failure in the counting system" that has now been "rectified".
The PM also admitted that the NHS test and trace service for coronavirus cases is "not perfect" and that he is "frustrated" with it.
But he insisted he does not blame NHS test and trace and takes "full responsibility for the service".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:22 Hancock announces tighter local restrictions
Mr Johnson said he understood people's "frustration" at differing rules and restrictions for different parts of the country and that he takes "full responsibility for everything that's happened since the pandemic began".
He said one of the alternatives he had heard suggested was to "let it rip", something Mr Johnson said he "just can't accept".
"And as prime minister I couldn't take a course that could expose us to tens of thousands more deaths in very short order," he said.
Responding to criticism from his own backbenchers about the wide-ranging nature of the restrictions and their economic impact, the PM said: "I'm a freedom-loving Tory. I don't want to have to impose measures like this, are you crazy?
"This is the last thing we want to do. But I also have to save life. And that's our priority."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
One aspect of the latest COVID-19 restrictions that has come in for criticism is the 10pm curfew for pubs, bars and restaurants.
Asked about this in his Marr interview, the PM defended the rule and blamed people who chose to "hobnob" outside establishments after hours for the scenes of crowds in city centres around closing time.
"Obviously it makes no sense if, having followed the guidance for all the time in the pub they then pour out into the street and hobnob in such a way as to spread the virus," Mr Johnson said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 14:06 'We want to avoid second national lockdown'
The PM said it had been "put to us" that bringing in a 10pm curfew could help reduce the transmission of the virus, but he did not elaborate on who had suggested it to ministers.
Mr Johnson was also questioned about the government's Eat Out To Help Out Scheme - and whether it had unwittingly spread coronavirus further.
He did not dismiss the possibility, saying: "It was very important to keep those jobs going.
"Now, if it, insofar as that scheme may have helped to spread the virus, then obviously we need to counteract that and we need to counteract that with the discipline and the measures that we're proposing."


skynewspolitics--2020-10-04--White House has not been 'open at all' about Trump's condition, says ex-UK ambassador to US

The White House has not been `` open at all '' about Donald Trump 's condition as he is treated for coronavirus , a former UK ambassador to the US has told Sky News .
Speaking on the Sophy Ridge on Sunday show , Sir Christopher Meyer said there had been `` conflicting messages '' about the president 's health as he battles COVID-19 .
Mr Trump was diagnosed with coronavirus late on Thursday , revealing the news in a tweet in the early hours of Friday .
Later that day he was moved to Walter Reed Military Hospital in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saturday , his medical team said he was improving and already talking about returning to the White House , but minutes later his chief of staff Mark Meadows told reporters that his vital signs during the previous 24 hours had been `` very concerning '' .
In a Saturday night update , his doctor Sean Conley said the president is `` not yet out of the woods '' but his team are `` cautiously optimistic '' .
And in his latest public comments on his condition , Mr Trump said he is `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looking forward to `` finishing up the [ election ] campaign the way it was started '' .
Referencing these statements , Sir Christopher said : `` We had one apparently from the White House itself , Mark Meadows , to the White House pool of reporters which was much more pessimistic than anything Donald Trump has said or even his personal doctor .
`` So there is a good deal of scepticism about what his private doctor is saying and what Trump himself is saying . ''
He added : `` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ given which is flagrant even by Trump 's standards , that the reason he went to hospital and did n't stay in the White House was one of joining the American people and share their suffering and show leadership .
`` This is rubbish , the reason he is in hospital is because he needs to for medical reasons . ''
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said he is sure that Mr Trump is `` going to be fine '' , telling the BBC 's Andrew Marr Show that the president is being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This was echoed by Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage , who said he had spoken to the Trump family and thinks the president will recover .
`` He does n't drink , does n't smoke , he 's carrying a few extra pounds but he is generally in pretty robust health , so my guess would be he 's going to be okay , '' Mr Farage told Ridge .
The former UKIP leader and MEP , who was the first British politician to meet Mr Trump after he won the 2016 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is `` bad for his campaign '' .
`` It 's bad because it puts COVID at the centre , it 's bad because the accusations are that he was too lackadaisical , and it 's bad because he ca n't come out and do what he 's good at which is rallies , campaigning , inspiring the troops , which really he is brilliant at so at the minute , it 's bad , '' he said .
But he said it would be wrong to write off the president 's chances @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fighting fit '' in a couple of weeks .
`` It 's very easy for commentators to write off Donald Trump .
He disproved everybody in 2016 .
This is not over . ''
Sir Christopher said recovering from the virus could be a `` potent message '' that helps Mr Trump win the election .
`` He is a past master at taking advantage and turning situations that might look disadvantageous to him and turning them to his advantage , and I can see him coming out all Trump-like and saying ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he said .

The White House has not been "open at all" about Donald Trump's condition as he is treated for coronavirus, a former UK ambassador to the US has told Sky News.
Speaking on the Sophy Ridge on Sunday show, Sir Christopher Meyer said there had been "conflicting messages" about the president's health as he battles COVID-19.
Mr Trump was diagnosed with coronavirus late on Thursday, revealing the news in a tweet in the early hours of Friday.
Image: Sir Christopher Meyer was UK ambassador to the US from 1997 to 2003
Later that day he was moved to Walter Reed Military Hospital in Maryland, where he remains.
On Saturday, his medical team said he was improving and already talking about returning to the White House, but minutes later his chief of staff Mark Meadows told reporters that his vital signs during the previous 24 hours had been "very concerning".
In a Saturday night update, his doctor Sean Conley said the president is "not yet out of the woods" but his team are "cautiously optimistic".
And in his latest public comments on his condition, Mr Trump said he is "starting to feel good" and is looking forward to "finishing up the [election] campaign the way it was started".
Referencing these statements, Sir Christopher said: "We had one apparently from the White House itself, Mark Meadows, to the White House pool of reporters which was much more pessimistic than anything Donald Trump has said or even his personal doctor.
"So there is a good deal of scepticism about what his private doctor is saying and what Trump himself is saying."
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:04 Mixed messages over Trump's health
He added: "I am astonished at the reason he has given which is flagrant even by Trump's standards, that the reason he went to hospital and didn't stay in the White House was one of joining the American people and share their suffering and show leadership.
"This is rubbish, the reason he is in hospital is because he needs to for medical reasons."
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said he is sure that Mr Trump is "going to be fine", telling the BBC's Andrew Marr Show that the president is being given the "best possible care".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 4:02 Trump says he is 'starting to feel good'
This was echoed by Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage, who said he had spoken to the Trump family and thinks the president will recover.
"He doesn't drink, doesn't smoke, he's carrying a few extra pounds but he is generally in pretty robust health, so my guess would be he's going to be okay," Mr Farage told Ridge.
The former UKIP leader and MEP, who was the first British politician to meet Mr Trump after he won the 2016 presidential election, said his COVID-19 diagnosis is "bad for his campaign".
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"It's bad because it puts COVID at the centre, it's bad because the accusations are that he was too lackadaisical, and it's bad because he can't come out and do what he's good at which is rallies, campaigning, inspiring the troops, which really he is brilliant at so at the minute, it's bad," he said.
But he said it would be wrong to write off the president's chances of re-election if he is back "fighting fit" in a couple of weeks.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 5:05 Farage says he thinks Trump will be OK
"It's very easy for commentators to write off Donald Trump. He disproved everybody in 2016. This is not over."
Sir Christopher said recovering from the virus could be a "potent message" that helps Mr Trump win the election.
"He is a past master at taking advantage and turning situations that might look disadvantageous to him and turning them to his advantage, and I can see him coming out all Trump-like and saying 'I met coronavirus and I won'," he said.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-04--'Firm and fair' asylum system will keep out those who arrive by 'illegal routes' - Patel

The home secretary will promise an asylum system that is `` firm and fair '' when she speaks at the Conservative Party conference later .
Priti Patel will present a system that would see the government routinely denying asylum to migrants who cross the English Channel on boats or via other `` illegal routes '' .
This would include migrants who pay criminal gangs or smugglers to help them reach the UK but `` legal routes '' would be created for those at risk of harm , she has promised .
Ms Patel told The Sunday Times : `` Currently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and makes an asylum claim , they are treated the same , irrespective of the route through which they have entered our country - and that simply is n't right . ''
It comes after the government was widely criticised after reports emerged that it had considered housing asylum seekers on disused oil rigs , banishing them to camps in Moldova or Papua New Guinea , or building floating walls in the sea to keep them out .
Ms Patel will speak to the Conservative Party conference later and will commit to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in decades '' .
She will say : `` Under Conservative leadership , the United Kingdom has and always will provide sanctuary when the lights are being switched off on people 's liberties . ''
Ms Patel will say : `` From the expulsion of Ugandan Asians from a repressive regime , to proudly resettling more Syrian refugees than any other EU country , to supporting campaigners fleeing political persecution in Hong Kong . ''
Resettled refugees are those who came to a new country as part of a specific scheme run by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the EU as asylum seekers , not as part of a scheme .
According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees , Germany is the only European country that takes enough refugees to rank among the top 10 refugee host countries .
Ms Patel 's new system will stop people who make `` endless legal claims to remain '' in the UK and it will `` expedite the removal of those who have no claim for protection '' .
`` I will take every necessary step to fix this broken system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our asylum system in decades , '' Ms Patel will say .
: : Subscribe to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' We will continue to hunt down the criminal gangs who traffic people into our country .
`` I will continue to use the full force of our outstanding National Crime Agency and intelligence agencies to go after them .
`` We will make more immediate returns of those who come here illegally and break our rules , every single week .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures and options to deter illegal migration . ''
Government figures show there were 34,354 asylum applications in the UK in the year ending September 2019 - 22 % more than the previous year and the highest number since the year ending June 2016 .

The home secretary will promise an asylum system that is "firm and fair" when she speaks at the Conservative Party conference later.
Priti Patel will present a system that would see the government routinely denying asylum to migrants who cross the English Channel on boats or via other "illegal routes".
This would include migrants who pay criminal gangs or smugglers to help them reach the UK but "legal routes" would be created for those at risk of harm, she has promised.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:31 MSP denounces asylum seekers' living conditions
Ms Patel told The Sunday Times: "Currently, everybody that comes to our country and makes an asylum claim, they are treated the same, irrespective of the route through which they have entered our country - and that simply isn't right."
It comes after the government was widely criticised after reports emerged that it had considered housing asylum seekers on disused oil rigs, banishing them to camps in Moldova or Papua New Guinea, or building floating walls in the sea to keep them out.
Ms Patel will speak to the Conservative Party conference later and will commit to the "biggest overhaul of our asylum system in decades".
She will say: "Under Conservative leadership, the United Kingdom has and always will provide sanctuary when the lights are being switched off on people's liberties."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:56 Sturgeon's anger over Mercy Baguma's death
Ms Patel will say: "From the expulsion of Ugandan Asians from a repressive regime, to proudly resettling more Syrian refugees than any other EU country, to supporting campaigners fleeing political persecution in Hong Kong."
Resettled refugees are those who came to a new country as part of a specific scheme run by that country. But most refugees arrive in the EU as asylum seekers, not as part of a scheme.
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According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Germany is the only European country that takes enough refugees to rank among the top 10 refugee host countries.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:53 'France is a safe country for asylum'
Ms Patel's new system will stop people who make "endless legal claims to remain" in the UK and it will "expedite the removal of those who have no claim for protection".
"I will take every necessary step to fix this broken system, amounting to the biggest overhaul of our asylum system in decades," Ms Patel will say.
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"We will continue to hunt down the criminal gangs who traffic people into our country.
"I will continue to use the full force of our outstanding National Crime Agency and intelligence agencies to go after them.
"We will make more immediate returns of those who come here illegally and break our rules, every single week.
"And we will explore all practical measures and options to deter illegal migration."
Government figures show there were 34,354 asylum applications in the UK in the year ending September 2019 - 22% more than the previous year and the highest number since the year ending June 2016.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-04--Government effort to focus on domestic agenda is thwarted by 'divisive' local lockdowns

After a shaky start to the Conservative Party Conference ( at least on the technological front ) , Monday will see Rishi Sunak speaking from the virtual podium .
Right now the chancellor can do no wrong , but he knows difficult decisions are coming , not least the problem of how to come back from the largest recession on record .
He is likely to anticipate this by reflecting on the tough trade-offs ahead , and how he will try to protect jobs in such challenging economic times .
`` Dishy Rishi '' may not retain his popularity for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , his message on Sunday was for people to act `` fearlessly but with common sense '' .
He told the BBC 's Andrew Marr he accepts many are `` furious '' with the government , but warned of a `` bumpy '' road to Christmas - and that `` this is the only way to do it '' .
As swathes of the country remain in local lockdowns , but with little evidence yet that heightened restrictions are working , the prime minister 's optimism does n't appear to be resonating as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to see `` Bojo 's Mojo '' return at his keynote speech on Tuesday .
Without the theatre of a packed conference hall and applause from the party faithful , will he be able to prove the doubters wrong ?
The last few days have brought announcements on housing , transport and immigration that the government hopes will resonate with the party and public alike .
They want to re-focus on the domestic agenda and what they 're doing to `` level up '' the country .
But the `` Great Divide '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is talking about .

After a shaky start to the Conservative Party Conference (at least on the technological front), Monday will see Rishi Sunak speaking from the virtual podium.
Right now the chancellor can do no wrong, but he knows difficult decisions are coming, not least the problem of how to come back from the largest recession on record.
He is likely to anticipate this by reflecting on the tough trade-offs ahead, and how he will try to protect jobs in such challenging economic times. "Dishy Rishi" may not retain his popularity for long.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:18 Priti Patel has vowed to replace the UK's 'broken' asylum system
As for the prime minister, his message on Sunday was for people to act "fearlessly but with common sense".
He told the BBC's Andrew Marr he accepts many are "furious" with the government, but warned of a "bumpy" road to Christmas - and that "this is the only way to do it".
As swathes of the country remain in local lockdowns, but with little evidence yet that heightened restrictions are working, the prime minister's optimism doesn't appear to be resonating as it once did.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:23 Coronavirus: Johnson warns of a 'bumpy ride'
Party members want to see "Bojo's Mojo" return at his keynote speech on Tuesday. Without the theatre of a packed conference hall and applause from the party faithful, will he be able to prove the doubters wrong?
The last few days have brought announcements on housing, transport and immigration that the government hopes will resonate with the party and public alike.
They want to re-focus on the domestic agenda and what they're doing to "level up" the country. But the "Great Divide" caused by local lockdowns is all anyone is talking about.


skynewspolitics--2020-10-04--Scottish Tory leader hits out at 'defeatism' and 'disinterest' from party south of border

Conservatives in England are `` not helping '' the Unionist cause in Scotland with their `` defeatism '' and `` disinterest '' , the leader of the Scottish Tories has told Sky News .
Speaking to Sophy Ridge on Sunday , Douglas Ross said his speech to the party 's virtual conference - in which he said `` the case for separation is now being made more effectively in London than it ever could in Edinburgh '' - was designed to be a `` wake-up call '' .
`` This was to remind everyone that we are Conservative and Unionist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hear too often sadly from colleagues , from members of the party south of the border , is not helping our fight up here , '' he said .
`` We are the strongest supporters for the Union in Scotland , we are the only ones who can stop the SNP and put a brake on their demands for another independence referendum to separate Scotland .
`` But our message is not being helped by those south of the border who somehow think this is a foregone conclusion .
It 's not .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ leader in August , blamed a culture of `` devolving and forgetting '' for the malaise .
`` It 's an attitude , it 's a feeling that the pattern of funding , significant funding through this COVID pandemic , £6.5bn from the UK government to the Scottish government and then we forget , '' he told Ridge .
`` We need to do more to remember that Scotland has two governments and the UK government and the Scottish government should work together more to benefit communities right across the country . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to save the Union , he said the prime minister was a `` strong supporter '' of the United Kingdom and the Union .
Mr Ross added : `` He believes that the four nations of the United Kingdom can do far more together than they can do separately on their own .
`` But I think the prime minister would also accept that his government and successive governments have not done enough to strengthen the case for the Union . ''
Asked about Mr Ross 's comments , the PM told the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think he was talking about those who do n't value the Union in the way that I do and I think that the Union is one of the great achievements of this country .
`` And by the way , I think its value , it 's use has been amply demonstrated during this crisis . ''
: : Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Nicola Sturgeon 's Scottish National Party is pushing for a second independence referendum , despite voters rejecting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the SNP 's argument is that the 2016 Brexit referendum - which saw Scotland vote Remain - has changed things since then .
Recent opinion polls have suggested there is now a majority for independence , but the PM is a long-standing opponent of a second independence referendum .
He reiterated this on Sunday , telling Marr : `` I do n't think this is the time , quite frankly , for us to have another referendum . ''

Conservatives in England are "not helping" the Unionist cause in Scotland with their "defeatism" and "disinterest", the leader of the Scottish Tories has told Sky News.
Speaking to Sophy Ridge on Sunday, Douglas Ross said his speech to the party's virtual conference - in which he said "the case for separation is now being made more effectively in London than it ever could in Edinburgh" - was designed to be a "wake-up call".
"This was to remind everyone that we are Conservative and Unionist and the defeatism and disinterest that I hear too often sadly from colleagues, from members of the party south of the border, is not helping our fight up here," he said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 6:54 In full: Scottish Tory leader speaks to Sophy Ridge on Sunday
"We are the strongest supporters for the Union in Scotland, we are the only ones who can stop the SNP and put a brake on their demands for another independence referendum to separate Scotland.
"But our message is not being helped by those south of the border who somehow think this is a foregone conclusion. It's not."
Mr Ross, who became party leader in August, blamed a culture of "devolving and forgetting" for the malaise.
"It's an attitude, it's a feeling that the pattern of funding, significant funding through this COVID pandemic, £6.5bn from the UK government to the Scottish government and then we forget," he told Ridge.
"We need to do more to remember that Scotland has two governments and the UK government and the Scottish government should work together more to benefit communities right across the country."
Asked if Boris Johnson is the man to save the Union, he said the prime minister was a "strong supporter" of the United Kingdom and the Union.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 11:57 Is the Union in trouble?
Mr Ross added: "He believes that the four nations of the United Kingdom can do far more together than they can do separately on their own.
"But I think the prime minister would also accept that his government and successive governments have not done enough to strengthen the case for the Union."
Asked about Mr Ross's comments, the PM told the BBC's Andrew Marr Show: "I think he was talking about those who don't value the Union in the way that I do and I think that the Union is one of the great achievements of this country.
"And by the way, I think its value, it's use has been amply demonstrated during this crisis."
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Nicola Sturgeon's Scottish National Party is pushing for a second independence referendum, despite voters rejecting independence in a 2014 vote.
Part of the SNP's argument is that the 2016 Brexit referendum - which saw Scotland vote Remain - has changed things since then.
Recent opinion polls have suggested there is now a majority for independence, but the PM is a long-standing opponent of a second independence referendum.
He reiterated this on Sunday, telling Marr: "I don't think this is the time, quite frankly, for us to have another referendum."