skynewspolitics--2020-01-24--For some Britons living in the EU, life is becoming increasingly uncertain

Brexit : For some Britons living in the EU , life is becoming increasingly uncertain Brexit : For some Britons living in the EU , life is becoming increasingly uncertain Denis Logan stirs his tea , looks round his favourite cafe and smiles .
Behind him , two men are enjoying a full English breakfast while the owner is chatting about the weather .
There 's a choice of HP sauce and tomato ketchup on the table , and a jar of Marmite lurking on the shelf .
On the wall , a painting of a lifeboat , battling giant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everyday British life , but transplanted here , to the hills of the Dordogne .
Denis , now 78 , moved to the village of Eymet in southwestern France a decade ago with his wife Carol and has never looked back .
And he 's not alone .
Eymet is a small place - home to only about 2,500 people - but around 400 of them are British , and their numbers are gradually growing .
It is an enclave of Britons who decided to use the right to move around Europe - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Denis says he came to Eymet because `` it 's like England in the 1950s '' .
He tells me : `` It 's excuse-en-moi , after you , pas de probleme .
You can leave your windows open .
It 's a different world here , and it 's the world that we liked . ''
Denis adds : `` It 's spacious .
There 's plenty of room for everyone and the weather speaks for itself .
Living here , I think I feel more European .
I embrace things @ @ @ @ @ @ @ am prepared to be flexible .
`` I am pleased to be here , and I 'm pleased to be accepted . ''
Denis is a model of relaxed retirement .
He does n't worry about Brexit , he says , because he 's lived in Eymet for the past decade and `` I 've heard we 'll be okay '' .
But around him , along the picturesque streets , there is anxiety .
Last year , the French government came up with guidelines about how British people could apply for residency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But now , ahead of talks that are likely to run until the end of the year , the advice is more sparse .
Few expect the French to bring in draconian rules , or to start expelling British residents , but many would like the reassurance of knowing the regulations covering residency .
`` It is scary for a lot of people , '' says Terri Simpson , an estate agent in Eymet who moved to France 17 years ago .
`` They do now know what to do or what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We have n't had much information from the French or British governments .
`` If you have not got a permanent right to stay in this country , it 's inevitable that you will not feel stable at the moment .
`` People have come here to have a 'forever ' home ; you do n't want to be in a position where every year you worry that you have to meet some criteria or else risk being expelled . ''
This is not a problem restricted to villages and towns like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many British people are in France , but it 's probably more than 200,000 .
Around Europe , there are more than a million Britons living in EU countries .
The question of `` what happens next ? ''
rarely has a clear answer , but in both Spain and France , which have the biggest population of British expats , the information has been particularly vague .
Along the road in Eymet , trade is brisk at The Taste of Britain .
It 's a grocery store where the shelves are packed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kitchens - gravy granules , salt and vinegar crisps , sausages , curry sauce and , well , lard .
The owner , Jane Patterson , says that residents `` have not been given enough information '' - but she is also sanguine about the future .
`` Our lives are in France now , not in the UK , '' is her conclusion .
`` This is one of these things where all you can do is to now just wait and see . ''

Denis Logan stirs his tea, looks round his favourite cafe and smiles.
Behind him, two men are enjoying a full English breakfast while the owner is chatting about the weather.
There's a choice of HP sauce and tomato ketchup on the table, and a jar of Marmite lurking on the shelf. On the wall, a painting of a lifeboat, battling giant waves.
Image: Eymet is a picturesque village in southwest France
It is a scene of everyday British life, but transplanted here, to the hills of the Dordogne.
Denis, now 78, moved to the village of Eymet in southwestern France a decade ago with his wife Carol and has never looked back. And he's not alone.
Eymet is a small place - home to only about 2,500 people - but around 400 of them are British, and their numbers are gradually growing.
It is an enclave of Britons who decided to use the right to move around Europe - to live and work in other countries.
Denis says he came to Eymet because "it's like England in the 1950s".
He tells me: "It's excuse-en-moi, after you, pas de probleme. You can leave your windows open. It's a different world here, and it's the world that we liked."
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Image: Denis Logan is one of hundreds of Brits who have made Eymet home
Denis adds: "It's spacious. There's plenty of room for everyone and the weather speaks for itself. Living here, I think I feel more European. I embrace things about living in this country and I am prepared to be flexible.
"I am pleased to be here, and I'm pleased to be accepted."
Denis is a model of relaxed retirement. He doesn't worry about Brexit, he says, because he's lived in Eymet for the past decade and "I've heard we'll be okay".
But around him, along the picturesque streets, there is anxiety.
Image: Eymet: 'Like Britain in the 1950s'
Last year, the French government came up with guidelines about how British people could apply for residency in the case of a no-deal Brexit.
But now, ahead of talks that are likely to run until the end of the year, the advice is more sparse.
Few expect the French to bring in draconian rules, or to start expelling British residents, but many would like the reassurance of knowing the regulations covering residency.
Image: Eymet offers plenty of home comforts for Britons
"It is scary for a lot of people," says Terri Simpson, an estate agent in Eymet who moved to France 17 years ago.
"They do now know what to do or what forms they need to fill in.
"We haven't had much information from the French or British governments.
"If you have not got a permanent right to stay in this country, it's inevitable that you will not feel stable at the moment.
"People have come here to have a 'forever' home; you don't want to be in a position where every year you worry that you have to meet some criteria or else risk being expelled."
Image: Terri Simpson says the future is 'scary' for many Brits living in France
This is not a problem restricted to villages and towns like Eymet.
Nobody is quite sure how many British people are in France, but it's probably more than 200,000.
Around Europe, there are more than a million Britons living in EU countries.
The question of "what happens next?" rarely has a clear answer, but in both Spain and France, which have the biggest population of British expats, the information has been particularly vague.
Image: Jane Patterson runs The Taste of Britain store in Eymet
Along the road in Eymet, trade is brisk at The Taste of Britain.
It's a grocery store where the shelves are packed with familiar products, redolent of British kitchens - gravy granules, salt and vinegar crisps, sausages, curry sauce and, well, lard.
The owner, Jane Patterson, says that residents "have not been given enough information" - but she is also sanguine about the future.
"Our lives are in France now, not in the UK," is her conclusion.
"This is one of these things where all you can do is to now just wait and see."


skynewspolitics--2020-01-27--Boris Johnson under mounting pressure over Huawei's 5G role

Boris Johnson has been warned that he risks `` taking back control from Brussels '' only to `` hand it over to Beijing '' , as he comes under further pressure not to allow Huawei to build Britain 's 5G network .
The government is expected to make a decision this week on whether to allow the Chinese company a role in creating the UK 's newest mobile broadband infrastructure .
Critics allege Huawei has close links to the Chinese government and its equipment could be used for espionage purposes - something the company has always denied .
Donald Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be at risk if Huawei is given a 5G role .
The US president has previously put trade restrictions on Huawei in America .
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo heightened the pressure on the prime minister over the issue as he described how `` the UK has a momentous decision ahead on 5G '' .
In a tweet on Sunday night , Mr Pompeo repeated comments from Conservative MP Tom Tugendhat , who was chair of the House of Commons foreign affairs committee prior to the general election .
Mr Pompeo added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it right : 'The truth is that only nations able to protect their data will be sovereign . '
'' He also linked to a Mail on Sunday article by Mr Tugendhat , in which the Tory politician warned of `` grave '' repercussions in allowing Huawei to build the UK 's 5G network .
Mr Tugenhadt told Sky News on Monday that `` protecting data is just as important as protecting soil '' in defending the `` sovereign interest of the British people '' .
He said : `` If we do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if we 're not certain that we know where all the code is leading , we risk losing control of our own data . ''
Ahead of the UK 's departure from the EU on Friday night , Mr Tugenhadt added : `` This is one of those cases where if we get it wrong we will pay for it for many , many years and effectively we 'll have taken back control from Brussels at the risk of handing it over to Beijing . ''
He admitted Huawei technology was cheaper than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a number of companies installing 5G networks across the globe .
`` It 's pretty striking that even a communist country like Vietnam , that has been traditionally close to China , has decided that the risk from Huawei is too great and they are going to be running their own system , '' Mr Tugenhadt said .
Labour leadership contender Sir Keir Starmer called on the prime minister to make a statement to parliament ahead of this week 's expected decision .
`` He 's done a bit of a runner , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around , he 's not leading from the front , '' the shadow Brexit secretary told Sky News .
`` He needs to come to parliament , make a statement and face questions about this . ''
Universities and science minister Chris Skidmore stressed Mr Johnson would be basing his decision on the advice of top experts who brief the National Security Council ( NSC ) with information that is `` not in the public domain '' .
The NSC is expected to meet on Tuesday to discuss the issue , with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ approve a `` restricted role '' for Huawei in Britain 's 5G network .
Mr Skidmore said : `` It 's a respected institution with individuals who have worked all their lives in national security environments and they 'll be able to make the right decisions . ''
He also suggested the considerations over Huawei would have to be balanced against the Tories ' general election manifesto commitment to `` scale-up our 5G connections '' and to put broadband into `` every corner of the UK '' .
Brexit Night Live : Watch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU with a special programme from 9pm on Friday 31 January

Boris Johnson has suggested an imminent decision on Huawei's role in the UK's 5G network will deliver the benefits of the new technology and allay security concerns.
Opponents of allowing the Chinese company to build the network say that, while cheaper than using rivals, allowing Huawei would risk handing over control of infrastructure to Beijing.
They argue that Huawei has close links to the Chinese government and its equipment could be used for espionage purposes - something the company has always denied.
Image: US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo spoke of a 'momentous decision' for the UK
Yet Mr Johnson said it was possible both to have access to "fantastic technology" and to "protect our key partnerships with other security powers".
The prime minister is due to meet ministers on Tuesday to decide on whether to ban or restrict the use of equipment made by the Chinese company in the UK's 5G network.
There have been concerns that, in the face of US suspicion about Huawei, intelligence sharing with the UK via the "Five Eyes" alliance could be under threat.
On Monday, in response to a reporter's question about the decision during a visit to a London university, Mr Johnson hinted at a decision that would satisfy all concerns.
"There is no reason why we shouldn't have technological progress here in the UK, allow consumers, businesses in the UK to have access to fantastic technology, to fantastic communications but also protect our key partnerships with other security powers around the world," he said.
"So the Five Eyes security relationships we have, we have got to keep them strong and safe.
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"We are going to come up with a solution that enables us to achieve both those objectives."
Donald Trump has suggested intelligence-sharing co-operation with Britain could be at risk if Huawei is given a 5G role.
The US president has previously put trade restrictions on Huawei in America.
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo heightened the pressure on the prime minister over the issue as he described how "the UK has a momentous decision ahead on 5G".
In a tweet on Sunday night, Mr Pompeo repeated comments from Conservative MP Tom Tugendhat, who was chair of the House of Commons Foreign Affairs Committee prior to the general election.
Mr Pompeo added: "British MP Tom Tugendhat gets it right: 'The truth is that only nations able to protect their data will be sovereign.'"
Mr Tugenhadt told Sky News on Monday that "protecting data is just as important as protecting soil" in defending the "sovereign interest of the British people".
Ahead of the UK's departure from the EU on Friday night, Mr Tugendhat added: "This is one of those cases where if we get it wrong we will pay for it for many, many years and effectively we'll have taken back control from Brussels at the risk of handing it over to Beijing."
Image: Tory backbencher Tom Tugendhat is warning of 'grave' repercussions
Labour leadership contender Sir Keir Starmer called on the prime minister to make a statement to parliament ahead of this week's expected decision.
"He's done a bit of a runner, has Boris Johnson, he's not around, he's not leading from the front," the shadow Brexit secretary told Sky News.
The Financial Times has reported that the government could approve a "restricted role" for Huawei in Britain's 5G network.
Brexit Night Live: Watch and follow the moment Britain exits the EU with a special programme from 9pm on Friday 31 January


skynewspolitics--2020-01-27--Scientists to be granted fast-track visa after Brexit

Global Talent visa : Scientists to be granted fast-track entry to UK after Brexit Global Talent visa : Scientists to be granted fast-track entry to UK after Brexit Scientists will receive fast-tracked entry into the country under the new scheme Top scientists , researchers and mathematicians will get fast-track entry to the UK under a new scheme announced by Boris Johnson .
The so-called Global Talent visa opens on 20 February , less than a month after Brexit , due to take place on Friday .
It replaces the old tier-one `` exceptional talent '' visa , which allowed applicants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ science and research academies .
Applicants for the old visa were capped at 2,000 per year , but that limit was never reached .
Under the new visa , the UK Research and Innovation funding agency will be added to the list of groups that can endorse applicants .
In this new visa , applicants will not need a job offer before arriving in the country and will be assessed more quickly for settlement once accepted .
The government has also announced £300m in funding for experimental and imaginative mathematical sciences research in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for new PhDs and a boost to maths fellowships and research projects .
In announcing the scheme as the country prepares to leave the EU , the prime minister said Britain 's borders would be open to the `` most talented minds in the world '' after Brexit .
He said the nation `` has a proud history of scientific discovery , but to lead the field and face the challenges of the future we need to continue to invest in talent and cutting-edge research '' .
Home Secretary Priti Patel said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ through the Global Talent route would `` keep the UK at the forefront of innovation '' .
But the Liberal Democrats played down any real change the visa might bring , saying the cap on the current one has never been hit .
Lib Dems Home affairs spokeswoman Christine Jardine called the announcement `` nothing more than a marketing gimmick '' .
`` Boris Johnson is showing that he fundamentally does n't understand what makes our science sector so successful , '' she said .
`` Changing the name of a visa and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hit is not a serious plan . ''
The scheme , managed by the UK Research and Innovation organisation , will help UK-based research projects with recognised prestigious grants and awards to recruit global talent .
The National Health Service has suffered a significant staff shortage since the Brexit vote , with recruits from the EU leaving the UK in large numbers .
More than 40,000 nursing roles were empty as of January .
The Government plans to introduce an Australian-style points-based immigration system by early 2021 , to coincide with the end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU .
A proposed £30,000 minimum salary threshold for migrants has alarmed businesses , who fear they might be facing a shortage of workers in sectors such as construction or hospitality .
The government is considering what to do about the threshold .
Brexit Night Live : Watch and follow the moment Britain exits the EU with a special programme from 9pm on Friday 31 January

Top scientists, researchers and mathematicians will get fast-track entry to the UK under a new scheme announced by Boris Johnson.
The so-called Global Talent visa opens on 20 February, less than a month after Brexit, due to take place on Friday.
It replaces the old tier-one "exceptional talent" visa, which allowed applicants to be recommended by a number of science and research academies.
Applicants for the old visa were capped at 2,000 per year, but that limit was never reached.
Under the new visa, the UK Research and Innovation funding agency will be added to the list of groups that can endorse applicants.
In this new visa, applicants will not need a job offer before arriving in the country and will be assessed more quickly for settlement once accepted.
The government has also announced £300m in funding for experimental and imaginative mathematical sciences research in the next five years, double funding for new PhDs and a boost to maths fellowships and research projects.
In announcing the scheme as the country prepares to leave the EU, the prime minister said Britain's borders would be open to the "most talented minds in the world" after Brexit.
He said the nation "has a proud history of scientific discovery, but to lead the field and face the challenges of the future we need to continue to invest in talent and cutting-edge research".
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Home Secretary Priti Patel said the "decisive action" to boost numbers through the Global Talent route would "keep the UK at the forefront of innovation".
But the Liberal Democrats played down any real change the visa might bring, saying the cap on the current one has never been hit.
Lib Dems Home affairs spokeswoman Christine Jardine called the announcement "nothing more than a marketing gimmick".
"Boris Johnson is showing that he fundamentally doesn't understand what makes our science sector so successful," she said.
"Changing the name of a visa and removing a cap that's never been hit is not a serious plan."
The scheme, managed by the UK Research and Innovation organisation, will help UK-based research projects with recognised prestigious grants and awards to recruit global talent.
The National Health Service has suffered a significant staff shortage since the Brexit vote, with recruits from the EU leaving the UK in large numbers.
More than 40,000 nursing roles were empty as of January.
The Government plans to introduce an Australian-style points-based immigration system by early 2021, to coincide with the end of Britain's transition period with the EU.
A proposed £30,000 minimum salary threshold for migrants has alarmed businesses, who fear they might be facing a shortage of workers in sectors such as construction or hospitality.
The government is considering what to do about the threshold.
Brexit Night Live: Watch and follow the moment Britain exits the EU with a special programme from 9pm on Friday 31 January


skynewspolitics--2020-01-26--How will your life be affected when UK leaves EU on Friday?

Brexit : How will your life be affected when UK leaves EU on Friday ?
Brexit : How will your @ @ @ @ @ leaves EU on Friday ?
Britain will leave the bloc at 11pm on Friday As @ @ @ @ @ EU on Friday , Sky News answers some of the key questions about how your @ @ @ @ @ Brexit .
Brexit Night Live : Watch and follow the moment Britain exits the EU @ @ @ @ @ 9pm on Friday 31 January .

As Britain prepares to leave the EU on Friday, Sky News answers some of the key questions about how your life could be affected by Brexit.
Brexit Night Live: Watch and follow the moment Britain exits the EU with a special programme from 9pm on Friday 31 January.


skynewspolitics--2020-01-27--'Fish for finance' battle looms ahead of Brexit trade talks

Downing St said the UK would be 'taking control of our fishing waters' Downing Street has insisted the UK will be `` taking back control '' of its fishing stocks , as a `` fish for finance '' trade-off emerged as the likely nature of the next round of Brexit negotiations .
Both London and Brussels are currently gearing up for talks on a future EU-UK trade relationship , which will follow the UK 's official departure from the bloc on Friday night .
EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier revealed he would present a draft negotiating mandate to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Meanwhile , a new 40-strong `` task force Europe '' team reporting directly to Boris Johnson will assume control of trade talks on the UK side .
This will follow the closure of the Department for Exiting the EU from Friday night , which had previously been responsible for the UK 's divorce from the bloc .
The task force will be headed by David Frost , the prime minister 's Europe adviser , and will report directly to Mr Johnson , Downing Street said on Monday .
Meanwhile , Sir Tim @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's permanent representative to the EU , will become the UK 's ambassador to the EU .
Mr Barnier , who visited Dublin for talks with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar on Monday , reiterated the EU 's warning over the tightness of the 11-month timetable for agreeing a UK-EU trade deal .
After Friday , a Brexit transition period - in which the UK will retain the status quo of EU membership - will run until 31 December , during with Mr Johnson hopes to agree a future trade relationship .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Mr Barnier said .
With the prime minister having vowed not to extend the transition period , the EU official : `` It 's time for round two and time will be very short .
`` We will maintain the EU unity , and we want to find an agreement that works in the interest of the whole EU . ''
In an interview with the BBC ahead of his meeting with Mr Barnier , Mr Varadkar suggested the EU will be the `` stronger team '' in trade talks with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issue of EU access to UK fishing waters with access to EU markets for UK financial service companies .
But , speaking alongside Mr Barnier in Dublin on Monday , Mr Varadkar said the upcoming trade negotiations did n't need to be seen as a `` contest '' .
`` There is a possibility for us to work together with the UK over the next few months and come to a future relationship and a trade agreement that 's mutually beneficial and that 's the spirit in which we will be entering these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Asked about Mr Varadkar linking fishing access to financial services , the prime minister 's official spokesman said : `` We are going to be taking control of our fishing waters .
`` We have been clear on that . ''
But the spokesman did not rule out EU fishing vessels being granted access to UK waters as part of Brexit trade negotiations .
`` It will be for the UK to determine in the best interests of the UK who fishes in our waters '' , he added .

Downing Street has insisted the UK will be "taking back control" of its fishing stocks, as a "fish for finance" trade-off emerged as the likely nature of the next round of Brexit negotiations.
Both London and Brussels are currently gearing up for talks on a future EU-UK trade relationship, which will follow the UK's official departure from the bloc on Friday night.
EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier revealed he would present a draft negotiating mandate to the remaining 27 EU member states next Monday.
Meanwhile, a new 40-strong "task force Europe" team reporting directly to Boris Johnson will assume control of trade talks on the UK side.
This will follow the closure of the Department for Exiting the EU from Friday night, which had previously been responsible for the UK's divorce from the bloc.
The task force will be headed by David Frost, the prime minister's Europe adviser, and will report directly to Mr Johnson, Downing Street said on Monday.
Meanwhile, Sir Tim Barrow, who is currently the UK's permanent representative to the EU, will become the UK's ambassador to the EU.
Mr Barnier, who visited Dublin for talks with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar on Monday, reiterated the EU's warning over the tightness of the 11-month timetable for agreeing a UK-EU trade deal.
After Friday, a Brexit transition period - in which the UK will retain the status quo of EU membership - will run until 31 December, during with Mr Johnson hopes to agree a future trade relationship.
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"Brexit is not going to go away," Mr Barnier said.
Image: Boris Johnson's Europe adviser David Frost will head up a new Downing Street taskforce
With the prime minister having vowed not to extend the transition period, the EU official: "It's time for round two and time will be very short.
"We will maintain the EU unity, and we want to find an agreement that works in the interest of the whole EU."
In an interview with the BBC ahead of his meeting with Mr Barnier, Mr Varadkar suggested the EU will be the "stronger team" in trade talks with the UK.
He also linked the issue of EU access to UK fishing waters with access to EU markets for UK financial service companies.
But, speaking alongside Mr Barnier in Dublin on Monday, Mr Varadkar said the upcoming trade negotiations didn't need to be seen as a "contest".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:57 For some Britons living in the EU, life is becoming increasingly uncertain
"There is a possibility for us to work together with the UK over the next few months and come to a future relationship and a trade agreement that's mutually beneficial and that's the spirit in which we will be entering these talks," the Irish premier said.
Asked about Mr Varadkar linking fishing access to financial services, the prime minister's official spokesman said: "We are going to be taking control of our fishing waters.
"We have been clear on that."
Image: Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar and EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier held talks in Dublin
But the spokesman did not rule out EU fishing vessels being granted access to UK waters as part of Brexit trade negotiations.
"It will be for the UK to determine in the best interests of the UK who fishes in our waters", he added.


skynewspolitics--2020-01-27--PM: Huawei decision will deliver 5G benefits and allay security concerns

Boris Johnson has suggested an imminent decision on Huawei 's role in the UK 's 5G network will deliver the benefits of the new technology and allay security concerns .
Opponents of allowing the Chinese company to build the network say that , while cheaper than using rivals , allowing Huawei would risk handing over control of infrastructure to Beijing .
They argue that Huawei has close links to the Chinese government and its equipment could be used for espionage purposes - something the company has always denied .
Yet Mr Johnson said it was possible both to have access @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` protect our key partnerships with other security powers '' .
The prime minister is due to meet ministers on Tuesday to decide on whether to ban or restrict the use of equipment made by the Chinese company in the UK 's 5G network .
There have been concerns that , in the face of US suspicion about Huawei , intelligence sharing with the UK via the `` Five Eyes '' alliance could be under threat .
On Monday , in response to a reporter 's question about the decision during a visit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hinted at a decision that would satisfy all concerns .
`` There is no reason why we should n't have technological progress here in the UK , allow consumers , businesses in the UK to have access to fantastic technology , to fantastic communications but also protect our key partnerships with other security powers around the world , '' he said .
`` So the Five Eyes security relationships we have , we have got to keep them strong and safe .
`` We are going to come up with a solution that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Donald Trump has suggested intelligence-sharing co-operation with Britain could be at risk if Huawei is given a 5G role .
The US president has previously put trade restrictions on Huawei in America .
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo heightened the pressure on the prime minister over the issue as he described how `` the UK has a momentous decision ahead on 5G '' .
In a tweet on Sunday night , Mr Pompeo repeated comments from Conservative MP Tom Tugendhat , who was chair of the House of Commons Foreign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Mr Pompeo added : `` British MP Tom Tugendhat gets it right : 'The truth is that only nations able to protect their data will be sovereign . '
'' Mr Tugenhadt told Sky News on Monday that `` protecting data is just as important as protecting soil '' in defending the `` sovereign interest of the British people '' .
Ahead of the UK 's departure from the EU on Friday night , Mr Tugendhat added : `` This is one of those cases where if we get it wrong we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many years and effectively we 'll have taken back control from Brussels at the risk of handing it over to Beijing . ''
Labour leadership contender Sir Keir Starmer called on the prime minister to make a statement to parliament ahead of this week 's expected decision .
`` He 's done a bit of a runner , has Boris Johnson , he 's not around , he 's not leading from the front , '' the shadow Brexit secretary told Sky News .
The Financial Times has reported that the government could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Huawei in Britain 's 5G network .
Brexit Night Live : Watch and follow the moment Britain exits the EU with a special programme from 9pm on Friday 31 January


skynewspolitics--2020-01-28--Huawei to be given a limited role in the UK's 5G network

Huawei to be given a limited role in the UK 's 5G network Huawei to be given a limited role in the UK 's 5G network Huawei has denied its equipment could be used for spying Huawei will be allowed to play a limited role in the UK 's 5G network , the government has confirmed .
The agreement says Huawei will : • Be excluded from all safety related and safety critical networks • Be excluded from sensitive geographic locations such as nuclear sites and military bases • Have a 35 % cap in periphery ( non-sensitive parts ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Morgan said : `` The government has reviewed the supply chain for telecoms networks and concluded today it is necessary to have tight restrictions on the presence of high risk vendors .
`` This is a UK-specific solution for UK-specific reasons and the decision deals with the challenges we face right now .
`` It not only paves the way for secure and resilient networks , with our sovereignty over data protected , but it also builds on our strategy to develop a diversity of suppliers .
`` We can now move forward @ @ @ @ @ @ @ technology . ''
Opponents of the idea had feared that allowing the Chinese tech company to build the network would be handing control of infrastructure to Beijing .
There were also concerns that , with Huawei 's close links to the Chinese government , the equipment could be used for espionage , something the company has always denied .
After the government 's announcement , Huawei vice president Victor Zhang said : `` Huawei is reassured by the UK government 's confirmation that we can continue working with our customers to keep the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ evidence-based decision will result in a more advanced , more secure and more cost-effective telecoms infrastructure that is fit for the future .
It gives the UK access to world-leading technology and ensures a competitive market .
`` We have supplied cutting-edge technology to telecoms operators in the UK for more than 15 years .
`` We will build on this strong track record , supporting our customers as they invest in their 5G networks , boosting economic growth and helping the UK continue to compete globally . ''
The debate has caused @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warned Prime Minister Boris Johnson not to approve Huawei due to security worries .
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had described the choice facing the National Security Council as `` momentous '' .
A number of MPs had also voiced their concerns , among them Tom Tugendhat , who warned that the UK would be `` allowing the fox into the hen house '' .
Ciaran Martin , the chief executive of the National Cyber Security Centre , said the limits on Huawei 's involvement would ensure the UK had a `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ framework for digital security in the years ahead '' .
He added : `` The National Cyber Security Centre has issued advice to telecoms network operators to help with the industry roll-out of 5G and full fibre networks in line with the government 's objectives .
`` High risk vendors have never been - and never will be - in our most sensitive networks . ''
The implementation of 5G is expected to bring download speeds 10 times faster than 4G and is seen as critical to the country 's economic future as @ @ @ @ @ @

Huawei will be allowed to play a limited role in the UK's 5G network, the government has said.
The decision defied security concerns, particularly from the US, about the Chinese company - and left the White House facing pressure to review its intelligence-sharing relationship with the UK.
Among the conditions for the Huawei's involvement are:
It will be excluded from all safety related and safety critical networks
It will be excluded from sensitive geographic locations such as nuclear sites and military bases
It will have a 35% cap in periphery (non-sensitive parts) of the 5G network
Sky's defence and security correspondent Alistair Bunkall said: "The National Security Council, on the advice of intelligence agencies, particularly GCHQ, has concluded that having Huawei on the peripheries of 5G can be managed and the security risks can be mitigated.
"It won't be a part of the core elements of 5G provision - that means in theory it won't have oversight of messages, data sharing, for example. Instead it will be limited to the non-core factors - things like provision of aerials and antennas. Even in that respect, its share will be limited to 35%.
"Actually Huawei's involvement overall will be really pretty limited but it reflects the influence the Chinese telecoms firm has in the technology market - an influence that few others are able to rival."
He added: "Britain's decision today is likely to be watched very carefully by a lot of other partners, particularly in Europe, who might decide if Britain can include Huawei in their infrastructure, why can't everyone else?"
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab insisted the decision would have "no impact" on intelligence sharing with key allies such as the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
He promised the government's decision carried the "toughest regime in the world, protecting and providing the right balance on protection of our 5G infrastructure".
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Announcing the news in parliament, Mr Raab added the most significant recent attack on UK telecoms came from Russia.
Image: Dominic Raab said the decision would have 'no impact' on intelligence-sharing
A senior Trump administration official said they were "disappointed" and looked forward to working with the UK on a way to exclude untrusted vendor components from 5G networks.
US Republican senator Tom Cotton said: "In the light of this decision, the US director of national intelligence should conduct a thorough review of US-UK intelligence sharing."
He described the decision as "deeply disappointing for American supporters of the special relationship".
"Allowing Huawei to build the UK's 5G networks today is like allowing the KGB to build its telephone network during the Cold War," Mr Cotton added.
UK Culture Secretary Baroness Morgan said: "This is a UK-specific solution for UK-specific reasons and the decision deals with the challenges we face right now.
"It not only paves the way for secure and resilient networks, with our sovereignty over data protected, but it also builds on our strategy to develop a diversity of suppliers.
"We can now move forward and seize the huge opportunities of 21st-century technology."
Opponents of the idea had feared that allowing the Chinese tech company to build the network would be handing control of infrastructure to Beijing.
There were also concerns that, with Huawei's close links to the Chinese government, the equipment could be used for espionage, something the company has always denied.
After the government's announcement, Huawei vice president Victor Zhang said the company was "reassured".
He added: "This evidence-based decision will result in a more advanced, more secure and more cost-effective telecoms infrastructure that is fit for the future. It gives the UK access to world-leading technology and ensures a competitive market."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:12 25 Jan: Huawei a post-Brexit trade obstacle for US
The debate has caused tension with the US, which had warned Prime Minister Boris Johnson not to approve Huawei, saying it could jeopardise future intelligence-sharing between the members of Five Eyes, an alliance which comprises Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and US.
US secretary of state Mike Pompeo is in London on Wednesday and will meet Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab.
Sharing an article about the decision on Huawei, Democratic US Senator Chris Murphy tweeted: "America has never been weaker. We have never had less influence.
"Not even our closest ally Britain, with a Trump soulmate in Downing Street, listens to us anymore."
Several senior MPs had also voiced their concerns, among them foreign affairs committee chair Tom Tugendhat, who warned that the UK would be "allowing the fox into the hen house".
After the decision was announced, he tweeted: "Overall, this statement leaves many concerns and does not close the UK's networks to a frequently malign international actor."
Image: A senior Tory MP said the decision would be 'allowing the fox into the hen house'
Tory backbencher Julian Lewis also told the Commons: "Huwaei should not be regarded as a private company because it is intimately linked with the Chinese Communist state and it's deeply hostile intelligence agencies."
While SNP defence spokesperson Stewart McDonald claimed: "He talks about Huawei as though it's some kind of Chinese answer to John Lewis - this is a Faustian pact with the Chinese Communist Party."
Ciaran Martin, the chief executive of the National Cyber Security Centre, said the limits on Huawei's involvement would ensure the UK had a "very strong, practical and technically sound framework for digital security in the years ahead".
The implementation of 5G is expected to bring download speeds 10 times faster than 4G and is seen as critical to the country's economic future as it leaves the European Union.
But a YouGov poll showed just 14% of Britons agreed with the decision to let Huawei be involved in non-core elements and 43% disagreed.


skynewspolitics--2020-01-28--Salary threshold for skilled migrants after Brexit should be lowered by £5,000

Salary threshold for skilled migrants after Brexit should be lowered by £5,000 Salary threshold for skilled migrants after Brexit should be lowered by £5,000 The report says there will be 'difficult trade-offs' An independent report into the options for UK 's future immigration policy has warned the government `` no perfect system exists '' and that `` difficult trade-offs '' will be unavoidable .
It comes as ministers prepare to publish a new immigration bill in the coming weeks , which will set the terms for post-Brexit migration .
The report finds that while the system envisaged by the government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , along with reduced pressure on the NHS , public finances and schools , it could also impact economic growth , damage sectors dependent on low-skilled workers and put increased pressure on social care .
Downing Street said the government would `` carefully consider '' the contents of the report .
A Number 10 spokesman added : `` The government will introduce a firmer and fairer points-based immigration system from 2021 that welcomes talent from around the world while reducing low-skilled migrants and bringing overall numbers down . ''
But Labour said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' over immigration .
Last year , the government asked the independent Migration Advisory Committee ( MAC ) to examine the issue of salary thresholds and the implementation of an Australian-style points-based immigration system after the Brexit transition period ends in December .
Publishing its recommendations , the MAC said the government should reduce the salary threshold for skilled migrants entering the UK with a job offer from £30,000 to £25,600 .
It also recommends maintaining salary thresholds based on workers ' occupations , with higher paid jobs having higher thresholds .
On @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which was promised in the Conservative party manifesto on which Boris Johnson won a majority last December , the MAC recommends that such a system should only be used as a route of entry for skilled workers without a job offer .
The report suggests modifying the existing Tier-1 Exceptional Talent visa so that it runs on a so-called `` expression of interest basis '' and measured on a points system based on characteristics the government wants to attract .
The MAC report also suggests some of the attributes considered when assigning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , study in the UK and previous experience in priority areas of the economy .
This would mean prospective migrants who are able to acquire sufficient points would be added to a pool from which there would be a monthly draw , with those selected invited to make a full application .
The report recommends maintaining an overall annual cap on those admitted , too .
This appears to run counter to the announcement made yesterday by Mr Johnson , in which he said Tier-1 visas would be replaced next month with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subject to any cap .
MAC chair , Professor Alan Manning , said : `` Our recommendations are likely to reduce future growth of the UK population and economy compared to freedom of movement , by using skill and salary thresholds .
`` We estimate very small increases in GDP per capita and productivity , slightly improved public finances , slightly reduced pressures on the NHS , schools and on social housing , though slightly increased pressures on social care .
`` No perfect system exists and there are unavoidable , difficult trade-offs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in low-wage sectors and the government needs to be clear about its plans for lower-skilled work migration .
`` The government should ensure that the mistakes of previous UK points-based systems are not repeated . ''
Yesterday the prime minister indicated that low-skilled workers from overseas would require a job offer to enter the country , but insisted the government would work with sectors likely to be impacted by more stringent requirements .
He told Sky News : `` What we want to have is a system that is responsive to the needs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dimensions .
`` There will be sectors like agriculture , retail , hospitality that do need to continue to attract low skilled workers but we want to make sure that that 's done very much on the basis of jobs that they have to come to here in the UK .
`` What we want is to end the situation where we have uncontrolled immigration coming in for low-skilled jobs , pushing down wages and having various other effects . ''
Labour 's shadow home secretary Diane Abbott said : `` The government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the prime minister saying there wo n't be a salary threshold and the home secretary saying there will .
`` Even a lower salary cap wo n't help recruit the hospital staff we need , the social care workers or many of the new recruits to private businesses .
`` We need a system based on treating people and their families decently who come here with firm job offers , whatever their pay level . ''

An independent report into the options for UK's future immigration policy has recommended that the government cut the salary threshold for skilled migrants.
The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has said it should be reduced from £30,000 to £25,600 for those coming to the UK with a job offer.
"No perfect system exists" and "difficult trade-offs" will be unavoidable, the committee warns.
Image: Boris Johnson wants a system that is 'responsive to the needs of the UK economy'
It comes as ministers prepare to publish a new immigration bill in the coming weeks, which will set the terms for post-Brexit migration.
The report finds that while the system envisaged by the government could see a reduction in population growth, along with reduced pressure on the NHS, public finances and schools, it could also impact economic growth, damage sectors dependent on low-skilled workers and put increased pressure on social care.
Downing Street said the government would "carefully consider" the contents of the report.
Home Secretary Priti Patel said: "I think it's important to recognise that the British public voted for change when it comes to immigration and with that they have voted for an Australian-style points-based system."
She added that the government wanted a system that is "fit for purpose, fit for the future, is in the control of the British government, but actually works for our economy and our labour market".
But Labour said the government was "tying itself in knots" over immigration, while the Liberal Democrats said the time-frame for establishing the new system was a "recipe for disaster".
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Last year, the government asked the MAC to examine the issue of salary thresholds and the implementation of an Australian-style points-based immigration system after the Brexit transition period ends in December.
Publishing its recommendations, the MAC said the government should reduce the salary threshold for skilled migrants entering the UK with a job offer from £30,000 to £25,600.
It also recommends maintaining salary thresholds based on workers' occupations, with higher paid jobs having higher thresholds.
On the issue of a points-based immigration system, which was promised in the Conservative party manifesto on which Boris Johnson won a majority last December, the MAC recommends that such a system should only be used as a route of entry for skilled workers without a job offer.
The report suggests modifying the existing Tier-1 Exceptional Talent visa so that it runs on a so-called "expression of interest basis" and measured on a points system based on characteristics the government wants to attract.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:35 'Immigration will be controlled and checked'
The MAC report also suggests some of the attributes considered when assigning points could include academic qualifications, age, study in the UK and previous experience in priority areas of the economy.
This would mean prospective migrants who are able to acquire sufficient points would be added to a pool from which there would be a monthly draw, with those selected invited to make a full application.
The report recommends maintaining an overall annual cap on those admitted, too.
This appears to run counter to the announcement made yesterday by Mr Johnson, in which he said Tier-1 visas would be replaced next month with a global talent visa which would not be subject to any cap.
MAC chair, Professor Alan Manning, said: "Our recommendations are likely to reduce future growth of the UK population and economy compared to freedom of movement, by using skill and salary thresholds.
"We estimate very small increases in GDP per capita and productivity, slightly improved public finances, slightly reduced pressures on the NHS, schools and on social housing, though slightly increased pressures on social care.
Image: The report says that 'no perfect system exists'
"No perfect system exists and there are unavoidable, difficult trade-offs.
"The largest impacts will be in low-wage sectors and the government needs to be clear about its plans for lower-skilled work migration.
"The government should ensure that the mistakes of previous UK points-based systems are not repeated."
Yesterday the prime minister indicated that low-skilled workers from overseas would require a job offer to enter the country, but insisted the government would work with sectors likely to be impacted by more stringent requirements.
He told Sky News: "What we want to have is a system that is responsive to the needs of the UK economy in all its dimensions.
"There will be sectors like agriculture, retail, hospitality that do need to continue to attract low skilled workers but we want to make sure that that's done very much on the basis of jobs that they have to come to here in the UK.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:48 Businesses warn immigration pledge could hurt economy
"What we want is to end the situation where we have uncontrolled immigration coming in for low-skilled jobs, pushing down wages and having various other effects."
Labour's shadow home secretary Diane Abbott said: "The government is tying itself in knots, with the prime minister saying there won't be a salary threshold and the home secretary saying there will.
"Even a lower salary cap won't help recruit the hospital staff we need, the social care workers or many of the new recruits to private businesses.
"We need a system based on treating people and their families decently who come here with firm job offers, whatever their pay level."
Christine Jardine, home affairs spokesperson for the Lib Dems, said: "The Conservative government wants to impose an entirely new immigration system in less than 12 months, without any proper consultation and managed by the discredited Home Office.
"That is a recipe for disaster."
Brexit Night Live: Watch and follow the moment Britain exits the EU with a special programme from 9pm on Friday 31 January


skynewspolitics--2020-01-27--There's still everything to play for in former Labour heartlands

There 's still everything to play for in former Labour heartlands There 's still everything to play for in former Labour heartlands Boris Johnson may have won big but he 's very much on probation .
Peter McGuire has been running his Nappa 's barber shop in Blyth for more than 25 years .
His is the town 's original barbershop and a mainstay of the local community .
But not everything in this quiet , coastal town stays the same .
In December , Blyth Valley in Northumberland broke the habit of a lifetime and elected a Conservative MP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has always been Labour .
It was election night 's first shock result .
When this seat turned blue , the dye was cast .
Boris Johnson was n't just going to make a chink in Labour 's red wall , he was going to bulldoze it down .
Mr McGuire broke his own habit of a lifetime when he voted Tory .
`` It was the first time I 've done it , '' he tells me .
`` I was sick of the way politics was going and if anyone was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was going to get us out .
`` Whether I 'd vote again , well that is a different matter .
We 'll have to see . ''
It is a message I hear not just in Blyth , but in Bishop Auckland ( Conservative majority 7,962 ) and Durham North West ( Conservative majority 1,144 ) .
Voters were clear they wanted to leave the EU , but less clear about whether this was a blue wave washing over the North East or rather a curious wash up of the politics of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Johnson is now pledging to capitalise on it as he borrows some of Labour 's clothes to dress up his government as one which will level up the country , invest heavily in the NHS and put more police back on the streets .
This is what Mr Corbyn was talking about after the election when he said Labour had `` won the argument '' .
The million dollar question now is whether the Conservatives can follow through .
Already , there is a glimmer of hope for those residents in Blyth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to re-open some rail lines axed in the Beeching closures in the early 1960s .
Blyth 's rail line is set to be up and running once more as the government reintroduces passenger services on the Northumberland rail line , linking Newcastle to Ashington via Blyth .
At the other end of the red wall on the north-west coast , the government is restoring the line linking Blackpool to Fleetwood ( Blackpool South now a has a Conservative majority of 3,690 ) .
This the taster of what 's to come .
Chancellor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government 's `` levelling up '' pledge in the March budget when he 'll begin allocating tens of billions of capital spending on new infrastructure projects .
The government has around £100bn to invest over the coming five years - £22bn has already been allocated in the manifesto - having promised in the election to raise net capital spending from about 2 % of gross domestic product to 3 % .
Much of that money is being earmarked for projects in the Midlands and the North .
The government whips have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MPs asking them what infrastructure projects they 're championing .
Mr Johnson is prepared to borrow more than his predecessors to fund investment and his chancellor has accordingly scrapped the target of eliminating the deficit altogether by the mid 2020s , although the chancellor still wants to balance the current budget by 2022-23 , which means day-to-day public spending is matched by tax receipts .
This means that while spending on public services will increase , the spending taps are still managed , reflecting the chancellor 's desire in the election to limit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inherent tension between Mr Johnson 's desire to keep voters in those Labour seats onside while not angering those in traditional Tory shires .
The Thatcherite wing of the Conservatives might not be comfortable with a big spending government .
As one MP representing a home county constituency pointed out to me : `` It 's all very well to talk about levelling up , but it 's my constituents who 'll have to pay for it . ''
And there are of course questions over whether the Conservatives will genuinely be able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ early projects .
As governments who have gone before Mr Johnson have found , tackling inter-regional inequality is very easy to talk up but very difficult to actually deliver .
It was a dazzling victory , but Mr Johnson and his team know all too well that his triumph was not just about voters turning towards Mr Johnson on Brexit .
It was also about voters turning away from Labour because of Jeremy Corbyn 's leadership .
Mr Corbyn had the worst poll ratings of any opposition leader ever going into the last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ perception of him during the campaign .
His supporters say it was because he was demonised by the right-wing press .
His detractors argue it was because of his mishandling of antisemitism in the Labour Party , questions over his patriotism , his commitment to the armed forces and his socialist agenda .
Mr McGuire tells me he `` did n't like '' Mr Corbyn `` rolling along on his wave thing '' and did n't see him as a credible prime minister .
`` I would n't let him run a bath @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was clear too on that path along the red wall that the Tories have a toehold only .
Those who had turned Conservative have done so with a heavy dose of conditionality .
`` I might vote Labour again as long as Jeremy Corbyn was n't at the helm .
I might vote for them again . ''
Shayne Smith , an alpaca breeder who lives in the rural constituency of Durham North West , another shock Conservative win , was n't surprised either when the Conservatives won .
A life-long Labour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to vote Labour this time around .
`` I 've voted Labour all my life but this year I did n't , '' she told me .
`` I did n't believe what they were promising .
It was all lip service - they said they 'd put money into this and that .
`` They said they 'd put money into school services and the NHS and things like that and then they said where it was going to come from they could n't possibly give you the money they were promising @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think people had just had enough . ''
But she too thinks Labour are not out of the running yet .
`` I think they are going to have to prove themselves if they uphold their policies and what they have put forward if they revert on that people will go back again and vote Labour , '' she added .
But what I picked up too was relief .
Whether those I spoke to voted leave or remain , those communities over 250 miles away from London were glad a decision @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down by Brexit and conflict , not just in parliament but in their political parties too .
Sam Zair , a local cafe owner in Bishop Auckland , spoke for many of those I chatted to in those new Tories constituencies of the North East when he said people just wanted to move on .
`` I was a Vote Leaver and the bottom line was this country voted to leave the EU , '' he said .
`` Whether you 're a leaver or a remainer , we have to pull together @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' For now , Mr Johnson is in the driving seat .
But Richard Holden , the new Tory MP for Durham North West , knows that this is a fragile victory .
`` Some people lent us their vote and some people took a punt , thinking will you deliver for us ?
`` First he ( Boris Johnson ) must deliver a Brexit deal that protects those manufacturing jobs in the North East , and he must prove to voters in these seats who felt forgotten by the political elites over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ again . ''
Many voters , spurred on by Brexit , crossed the Rubicon and voted Tory for the first time .
But what turned from red to blue could turn back again if Mr Johnson drops the ball , and Labour selects a leader who can re-connect with voters in a way that Mr Corbyn could not .
Mr Johnson may have won a five-year term , but there 's still everything to play for .

Sky News' Beth Rigby speaks to those who broke the habit of a lifetime and voted Tory for the first time in northern England.
There's still everything to play for in former Labour heartlands
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Boris Johnson may have won big but he's very much on probation.
Peter McGuire has been running his Nappa's barber shop in Blyth for more than 25 years.
His is the town's original barbershop and a mainstay of the local community.
Image: Peter owns a business Blyth Valley
But not everything in this quiet, coastal town stays the same.
In December, Blyth Valley in Northumberland broke the habit of a lifetime and elected a Conservative MP - Ian Levy winning a seat that has always been Labour.
It was election night's first shock result.
When this seat turned blue, the dye was cast. Boris Johnson wasn't just going to make a chink in Labour's red wall, he was going to bulldoze it down.
Mr McGuire broke his own habit of a lifetime when he voted Tory.
"It was the first time I've done it," he tells me. "I was sick of the way politics was going and if anyone was going to get Britain out Boris Johnson was going to get us out.
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"Whether I'd vote again, well that is a different matter. We'll have to see."
Image: Peter said the first time he voted Tory was in December 2019
It is a message I hear not just in Blyth, but in Bishop Auckland (Conservative majority 7,962) and Durham North West (Conservative majority 1,144).
Voters were clear they wanted to leave the EU, but less clear about whether this was a blue wave washing over the North East or rather a curious wash up of the politics of Brexit which has scrambled voters' identities
Mr Johnson is now pledging to capitalise on it as he borrows some of Labour's clothes to dress up his government as one which will level up the country, invest heavily in the NHS and put more police back on the streets.
This is what Mr Corbyn was talking about after the election when he said Labour had "won the argument".
The million dollar question now is whether the Conservatives can follow through.
Image: Durham North West was another seat that swung to the Conservatives
Already, there is a glimmer of hope for those residents in Blyth.
The government has today pledged £500m to re-open some rail lines axed in the Beeching closures in the early 1960s.
Blyth's rail line is set to be up and running once more as the government reintroduces passenger services on the Northumberland rail line, linking Newcastle to Ashington via Blyth.
At the other end of the red wall on the north-west coast, the government is restoring the line linking Blackpool to Fleetwood (Blackpool South now a has a Conservative majority of 3,690).
This the taster of what's to come.
Chancellor Sajid Javid has promised to lock in the government's "levelling up" pledge in the March budget when he'll begin allocating tens of billions of capital spending on new infrastructure projects.
The government has around £100bn to invest over the coming five years - £22bn has already been allocated in the manifesto - having promised in the election to raise net capital spending from about 2% of gross domestic product to 3%.
Much of that money is being earmarked for projects in the Midlands and the North. The government whips have been ringing around the new flock of Conservative MPs asking them what infrastructure projects they're championing.
Mr Johnson is prepared to borrow more than his predecessors to fund investment and his chancellor has accordingly scrapped the target of eliminating the deficit altogether by the mid 2020s, although the chancellor still wants to balance the current budget by 2022-23, which means day-to-day public spending is matched by tax receipts.
This means that while spending on public services will increase, the spending taps are still managed, reflecting the chancellor's desire in the election to limit spending pledges.
Because there is an inherent tension between Mr Johnson's desire to keep voters in those Labour seats onside while not angering those in traditional Tory shires.
The Thatcherite wing of the Conservatives might not be comfortable with a big spending government.
As one MP representing a home county constituency pointed out to me: "It's all very well to talk about levelling up, but it's my constituents who'll have to pay for it."
Image: Thatcherite Tories might not be comfortable with a big spending government.
And there are of course questions over whether the Conservatives will genuinely be able to level up beyond unveiling some feel-good early projects.
As governments who have gone before Mr Johnson have found, tackling inter-regional inequality is very easy to talk up but very difficult to actually deliver.
It was a dazzling victory, but Mr Johnson and his team know all too well that his triumph was not just about voters turning towards Mr Johnson on Brexit. It was also about voters turning away from Labour because of Jeremy Corbyn's leadership.
Mr Corbyn had the worst poll ratings of any opposition leader ever going into the last election and he failed to shift that perception of him during the campaign.
His supporters say it was because he was demonised by the right-wing press. His detractors argue it was because of his mishandling of antisemitism in the Labour Party, questions over his patriotism, his commitment to the armed forces and his socialist agenda.
Mr McGuire tells me he "didn't like" Mr Corbyn "rolling along on his wave thing" and didn't see him as a credible prime minister. "I wouldn't let him run a bath let alone the country."
But it was clear too on that path along the red wall that the Tories have a toehold only. Those who had turned Conservative have done so with a heavy dose of conditionality.
"I might vote Labour again as long as Jeremy Corbyn wasn't at the helm. I might vote for them again."
Shayne Smith, an alpaca breeder who lives in the rural constituency of Durham North West, another shock Conservative win, wasn't surprised either when the Conservatives won.
A life-long Labour voter, she couldn't bring herself to vote Labour this time around.
Image: Shayne Smith said she 'didn't believe' what Labour promised
"I've voted Labour all my life but this year I didn't," she told me.
"I didn't believe what they were promising. It was all lip service - they said they'd put money into this and that.
"They said they'd put money into school services and the NHS and things like that and then they said where it was going to come from they couldn't possibly give you the money they were promising for all these little rural villages and I think people had just had enough."
But she too thinks Labour are not out of the running yet.
"I think they are going to have to prove themselves if they uphold their policies and what they have put forward if they revert on that people will go back again and vote Labour," she added.
Image: Ms Smith, an alpaca breeder, thinks people could return to voting Labour
But what I picked up too was relief. Whether those I spoke to voted leave or remain, those communities over 250 miles away from London were glad a decision had been made.
They were worn down by Brexit and conflict, not just in parliament but in their political parties too.
Sam Zair, a local cafe owner in Bishop Auckland, spoke for many of those I chatted to in those new Tories constituencies of the North East when he said people just wanted to move on.
"I was a Vote Leaver and the bottom line was this country voted to leave the EU," he said.
"Whether you're a leaver or a remainer, we have to pull together so that bumpy ride gets easier."
Image: Sam Zair, a cafe owner in Bishop Auckland, said Britons 'have to pull together'
For now, Mr Johnson is in the driving seat.
But Richard Holden, the new Tory MP for Durham North West, knows that this is a fragile victory.
"Some people lent us their vote and some people took a punt, thinking will you deliver for us?
Image: New MP Richard Holden said some people 'took a punt' on the Tories
"First he (Boris Johnson) must deliver a Brexit deal that protects those manufacturing jobs in the North East, and he must prove to voters in these seats who felt forgotten by the political elites over Brexit, they will not be forgotten again."
Many voters, spurred on by Brexit, crossed the Rubicon and voted Tory for the first time.
But what turned from red to blue could turn back again if Mr Johnson drops the ball, and Labour selects a leader who can re-connect with voters in a way that Mr Corbyn could not.
Mr Johnson may have won a five-year term, but there's still everything to play for.


skynewspolitics--2020-01-27--'Get ready for Brexit' adverts had little effect on public preparedness

'Get ready for Brexit ' £46m public information campaign had little effect on public preparedness 'Get ready for Brexit ' £46m public information campaign had little effect on public preparedness The campaign was pulled days before 31 October A £46m Brexit information campaign funded by taxpayers had little effect on the public ’ s level of preparedness , a new report says .
Whitehall ’ s spending watchdog found the “ get ready for Brexit ” adverts did not noticeably change the number of people looking for information about the UK leaving the EU .
The National Audit Office ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for getting government departments to work well together and rolling out the campaign “ at great speed ” .
A government spokesperson hit back by insisting that not running the ads would have risked people ’ s lives .
Boris Johnson ordered the campaign be rolled out back when he was promising Brexit would happen “ do or die ” on 31 October 2019 .
Ministers chose the most expensive of four options put forward by the Cabinet Office with a total budget of £100 million .
It was halted on 28 October @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prime minister 's Brexit deal through parliament and he was forced to request a delay to avoid no-deal .
The Cabinet Office estimated the campaign reached 99.8 % of the population , with every member of the public having the chance to see the adverts 55 times .
But the NAO said the numbers of people looking for information about Brexit did not notably change - ranging from 32 % and 37 % during the campaign , to 34 % when it stopped .
Head Gareth Davis said : `` At short notice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government departments to work together effectively and launched this complex campaign at great speed .
`` However , it is not clear that the campaign resulted in the public being significantly better prepared . ''
A Government spokesman responded : `` The Get ready for Brexit campaign reached 99.8 % of the UK population and the NAO 's findings showed increased public awareness of the action they needed to take to be ready to leave the EU .
`` Not undertaking the campaign would have risked significant and unnecessary disruption to businesses and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MP Layla Moran said it showed the ads were an “ expensive propaganda stunt ” and “ colossal waste of taxpayers ’ money ” .
`` Once again the Tories are misusing their powers at the expense of our democracy .
“ Given how poorly this campaigned performed it should be referred to the Electoral Commission and be included as part of the Tory general election spend .
”

A £46m Brexit information campaign funded by taxpayers had little effect on the public’s level of preparedness, a new report says.
Whitehall's spending watchdog found the "get ready for Brexit" adverts did not noticeably change the number of people looking for information about the UK leaving the EU.
The National Audit Office (NAO) did praise the Cabinet Office for getting government departments to work well together and rolling out the campaign "at great speed".
Image: Boris Johnson ordered the campaign be rolled out
A government spokesperson hit back by insisting that not running the ads would have risked people's lives.
Boris Johnson ordered the campaign be rolled out back when he was promising Brexit would happen "do or die" on 31 October 2019.
Ministers chose the most expensive of four options put forward by the Cabinet Office with a total budget of £100m.
It was halted on 28 October, after MPs refused to rush the prime minister's Brexit deal through parliament and he was forced to request a delay to avoid no-deal.
The Cabinet Office estimated the campaign reached 99.8% of the population, with every member of the public having the chance to see the adverts 55 times.
But the NAO said the numbers of people looking for information about Brexit did not notably change - ranging from 32% and 37% during the campaign, to 34% when it stopped.
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Head Gareth Davis said: "At short notice, the Cabinet Office successfully corralled multiple government departments to work together effectively and launched this complex campaign at great speed.
"However, it is not clear that the campaign resulted in the public being significantly better prepared."
Image: The ads reached 99.8% of the population, the Cabinet Office said
A government spokesman responded: "The Get ready for Brexit campaign reached 99.8% of the UK population and the NAO's findings showed increased public awareness of the action they needed to take to be ready to leave the EU.
"Not undertaking the campaign would have risked significant and unnecessary disruption to businesses and to people's lives.”
Liberal Democrat MP Layla Moran said it showed the ads were an "expensive propaganda stunt" and a "colossal waste of taxpayers' money".
"Once again the Tories are misusing their powers at the expense of our democracy.
"Given how poorly this campaigned performed it should be referred to the Electoral Commission and be included as part of the Tory general election spend."


skynewspolitics--2020-01-28--Salary threshold for skilled migrants post-Brexit should be lowered by £5k

Salary threshold for skilled migrants after Brexit should be lowered by £5,000 Salary threshold for skilled migrants after Brexit should be lowered by £5,000 The report says there will be 'difficult trade-offs' An independent report into the options for UK 's future immigration policy has recommended that the government cut the salary threshold for skilled migrants .
The Migration Advisory Committee ( MAC ) has said it should be reduced from £30,000 to £25,600 for those coming to the UK with a job offer .
`` No perfect system exists '' and `` difficult trade-offs '' will be unavoidable , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ministers prepare to publish a new immigration bill in the coming weeks , which will set the terms for post-Brexit migration .
The report finds that while the system envisaged by the government could see a reduction in population growth , along with reduced pressure on the NHS , public finances and schools , it could also impact economic growth , damage sectors dependent on low-skilled workers and put increased pressure on social care .
Downing Street said the government would `` carefully consider '' the contents of the report .
Home Secretary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's important to recognise that the British public voted for change when it comes to immigration and with that they have voted for an Australian-style points-based system . ''
She added that the government wanted a system that is `` fit for purpose , fit for the future , is in the control of the British government , but actually works for our economy and our labour market '' .
But Labour said the government was `` tying itself in knots '' over immigration , while the Liberal Democrats said the time-frame @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` recipe for disaster '' .
Last year , the government asked the MAC to examine the issue of salary thresholds and the implementation of an Australian-style points-based immigration system after the Brexit transition period ends in December .
Publishing its recommendations , the MAC said the government should reduce the salary threshold for skilled migrants entering the UK with a job offer from £30,000 to £25,600 .
It also recommends maintaining salary thresholds based on workers ' occupations , with higher paid jobs having higher thresholds .
On the issue of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Conservative party manifesto on which Boris Johnson won a majority last December , the MAC recommends that such a system should only be used as a route of entry for skilled workers without a job offer .
The report suggests modifying the existing Tier-1 Exceptional Talent visa so that it runs on a so-called `` expression of interest basis '' and measured on a points system based on characteristics the government wants to attract .
The MAC report also suggests some of the attributes considered when assigning points could include academic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK and previous experience in priority areas of the economy .
This would mean prospective migrants who are able to acquire sufficient points would be added to a pool from which there would be a monthly draw , with those selected invited to make a full application .
The report recommends maintaining an overall annual cap on those admitted , too .
This appears to run counter to the announcement made yesterday by Mr Johnson , in which he said Tier-1 visas would be replaced next month with a global talent visa which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
MAC chair , Professor Alan Manning , said : `` Our recommendations are likely to reduce future growth of the UK population and economy compared to freedom of movement , by using skill and salary thresholds .
`` We estimate very small increases in GDP per capita and productivity , slightly improved public finances , slightly reduced pressures on the NHS , schools and on social housing , though slightly increased pressures on social care .
`` No perfect system exists and there are unavoidable , difficult trade-offs .
`` The largest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government needs to be clear about its plans for lower-skilled work migration .
`` The government should ensure that the mistakes of previous UK points-based systems are not repeated . ''
Yesterday the prime minister indicated that low-skilled workers from overseas would require a job offer to enter the country , but insisted the government would work with sectors likely to be impacted by more stringent requirements .
He told Sky News : `` What we want to have is a system that is responsive to the needs of the UK economy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be sectors like agriculture , retail , hospitality that do need to continue to attract low skilled workers but we want to make sure that that 's done very much on the basis of jobs that they have to come to here in the UK .
`` What we want is to end the situation where we have uncontrolled immigration coming in for low-skilled jobs , pushing down wages and having various other effects . ''
Labour 's shadow home secretary Diane Abbott said : `` The government is tying itself in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there wo n't be a salary threshold and the home secretary saying there will .
`` Even a lower salary cap wo n't help recruit the hospital staff we need , the social care workers or many of the new recruits to private businesses .
`` We need a system based on treating people and their families decently who come here with firm job offers , whatever their pay level . ''
Christine Jardine , home affairs spokesperson for the Lib Dems , said : `` The Conservative government wants to impose an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 12 months , without any proper consultation and managed by the discredited Home Office .
`` That is a recipe for disaster . ''
Brexit Night Live : Watch and follow the moment Britain exits the EU with a special programme from 9pm on Friday 31 January


skynewspolitics--2020-01-28--New MEP only serving four days 'would love to be here longer'

Heather Anderson got the job after her predecessor became an MP A new Scottish MEP says she is `` delighted '' to have started her role - even though it will only last four days .
Heather Anderson told Sky News she `` would love to be here longer '' as all the UK 's elected representatives in Strasbourg prepare to lose their jobs on Brexit day .
She took up the seat after its previous incumbent , Alyn Smith , quit to stand in last month 's general election and became MP for Stirling .
Ms Anderson said it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaving the EU on 31 January `` against our will and without our consent '' .
With a key final stage in the Brexit process looming , she told Sky News her short stint in France was about focusing on the vote MEPs will hold to sign off the withdrawal agreement on Wednesday .
She also wants to `` speak to as many people as possible about Scotland 's views on Brexit and our aim to return '' .
The Scottish National Party MEP told Sky News : `` I am looking on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ days , not the last .
`` Scotland will apply to rejoin the European Union as soon as we have secured our independence .
`` Our best future is as an independent European country .
`` I would love to return if the chance arises . ''
She continued : `` Unfortunately we did n't manage the stop the Brexit bus but we can try and protect the people of Scotland from the crash .
That 's our priority . ''
Ms Anderson added that she was getting no pension or pay-off , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

A new Scottish MEP says she is "delighted" to have started her role - even though it will only last four days.
Heather Anderson told Sky News she "would love to be here longer" as all the UK's elected representatives in Strasbourg prepare to lose their jobs on Brexit day.
She took up the seat after its previous incumbent, Alyn Smith, quit to stand in last month's general election and became MP for Stirling.
Image: The new MEP (second from right) thinks she could be back if an independent Scotland rejoins the EU
Ms Anderson said it was a "tragedy" Scotland was leaving the EU on 31 January "against our will and without our consent".
With a key final stage in the Brexit process looming, she told Sky News her short stint in France was about focusing on the vote MEPs will hold to sign off the withdrawal agreement on Wednesday.
She also wants to "speak to as many people as possible about Scotland's views on Brexit and our aim to return".
The Scottish National Party MEP told Sky News: "I am looking on these four days as the first four days, not the last.
"Scotland will apply to rejoin the European Union as soon as we have secured our independence.
"Our best future is as an independent European country.
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"I would love to return if the chance arises."
She continued: "Unfortunately we didn't manage the stop the Brexit bus but we can try and protect the people of Scotland from the crash. That's our priority."
Ms Anderson added that she was getting no pension or pay-off, just money for four days' work.


skynewspolitics--2020-01-29--MEPs set to ratify Britain's exit deal ahead of Brexit day

Boris Johnson formally signed his Brexit deal last week after it was passed into law The European Parliament is set to rubber stamp Boris Johnson 's Brexit deal later , paving the way for Britain 's departure from the EU .
MEPs are expected to overwhelmingly support ratification of the withdrawal agreement ahead of Brexit day on Friday .
It comes after the British parliament passed the prime minister 's Withdrawal Agreement Bill last week .
The deal has been formally signed by European Council President Charles Michel and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen .
Mr Johnson signed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had been given royal assent .
The withdrawal agreement covers the terms of Britain 's departure from the bloc after 47 years of membership .
It includes an agreement on future citizens ' rights , arrangements for the Northern Ireland border and the `` divorce bill '' Britain will pay Brussels .
Once the UK has left the EU , it will enter into an 11-month transition period .
This timeframe , during which Britain will continue to follow EU rules and regulations , is to allow for the two sides to negotiate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Johnson has promised not to extend the transition period beyond the end of December , despite senior EU figures warning that a comprehensive deal will not be possible in such a short space of time .
There will be a farewell ceremony for British MEPs after the European Parliament vote .
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said the vote would be a `` historic moment '' .
`` It is the start of a new chapter for an independent , sovereign Britain , looking forward to a decade of renewal and opportunity , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are reducing trade barriers between nations , tackling climate change , or improving lives around the world , our vision of a truly global Britain will be a force for good . ''
Nigel Farage said he would miss being the `` pantomime villain '' in the chamber .
Speaking at a press conference in Brussels , the Brexit Party MEP said : `` I have got my last speech here this afternoon , so I will do my best if I can to get some audience participation . ''
Talking to Sky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the European Parliament , Mr Farage said : `` I 'm very much hoping that Brexit leads to a different debate going on around Europe - an end to a system where effectively an unelected European Commission is the government of Europe .
`` I think Brexit will lead to the end of the European Union as we currently know it . ''

The European Parliament is set to rubber stamp Boris Johnson's Brexit deal later, paving the way for Britain's departure from the EU.
MEPs are expected to overwhelmingly support ratification of the withdrawal agreement ahead of Brexit day on Friday.
It comes after the British parliament passed the prime minister's Withdrawal Agreement Bill last week.
Image: Ursula Von Der Leyen signs the withdrawal agreement. Pic: @vonderleyen
The deal has been formally signed by European Council President Charles Michel and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
Mr Johnson signed it in Downing Street after the legislation had been given royal assent.
The withdrawal agreement covers the terms of Britain's departure from the bloc after 47 years of membership.
It includes an agreement on future citizens' rights, arrangements for the Northern Ireland border and the "divorce bill" Britain will pay Brussels.
Once the UK has left the EU, it will enter into an 11-month transition period.
This timeframe, during which Britain will continue to follow EU rules and regulations, is to allow for the two sides to negotiate the terms of their future relationship.
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Mr Johnson has promised not to extend the transition period beyond the end of December, despite senior EU figures warning that a comprehensive deal will not be possible in such a short space of time.
Ireland's deputy prime minister Simon Coveney has said the UK is "very unlikely" to seek an extension to the transition.
This would put the UK "in a straitjacket in terms of time" and will "force choices" to be made in the talks on the future relationship, he said.
There will be a farewell ceremony for British MEPs after the European Parliament vote.
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said the vote would be a "historic moment".
"It is the start of a new chapter for an independent, sovereign Britain, looking forward to a decade of renewal and opportunity," he said.
"Whether we are reducing trade barriers between nations, tackling climate change, or improving lives around the world, our vision of a truly global Britain will be a force for good."
Nigel Farage said he would miss being the "pantomime villain" in the chamber.
Image: Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage will address the European Parliament this afternoon
Speaking at a press conference in Brussels, the Brexit Party MEP said: "I have got my last speech here this afternoon, so I will do my best if I can to get some audience participation."
Talking to Sky News ahead of his last speech to the European Parliament, Mr Farage said: "I'm very much hoping that Brexit leads to a different debate going on around Europe - an end to a system where effectively an unelected European Commission is the government of Europe.
"I think Brexit will lead to the end of the European Union as we currently know it."
Brexit Night Live: Watch and follow the moment Britain exits the EU with a special programme from 9pm on Friday 31 January