skynewspolitics--2020-06-14--PM vows to tackle racism - but warns that changing attitudes 'won't be easy'

Boris Johnson has promised a cross-government commission to tackle racism , but admitted it `` wo n't be easy '' to change attitudes in Britain .
The prime minister announced the review , designed to root out inequality in education , employment , health and many other sectors , after weeks of protests calling for an end to discrimination .
Writing in The Daily Telegraph , Mr Johnson warned the review must `` tackle the substance of the problem , not symbols '' , as he condemned far-right `` thugs '' who attacked statues and fought with police this weekend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and minority ethnic people to be celebrated as British heroes and warned against trying to rewrite history .
Mr Johnson 's words follow protests , both violent and peaceful , across the country in the wake of the killing of George Floyd in America at the hands of a white police officer .
He said : `` No one who cares about this country can ignore the many thousands of people who have joined the Black Lives Movement to protest peacefully , as most of them have , in the last few days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that we have made huge progress in tackling racism .
`` There is much more that we need to do ; and we will .
It is time for a cross-governmental commission to look at all aspects of inequality - in employment , in health outcomes , in academic and all other walks of life .
We need to tackle the substance of the problem , not the symbols .
`` We need to address the present , not attempt to rewrite the past - and that means we can not and must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about which well-known historical figure is sufficiently pure or politically correct to remain in public view . ''
Mr Johnson warned of attempts to erase history by tearing down statues and demanding key historical figures be condemned as racist .
He added : `` It is not just that it is wrong to destroy public property by violence .
I am also extremely dubious about the growing campaign to edit or Photoshop the entire cultural landscape .
`` If we start purging the record and removing the images of all but those whose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are engaged in a great lie , a distortion of our history - like some public figure furtively trying to make themselves look better by editing their own Wikipedia entry . ''
The prime minister also mounted an impassioned defence of Winston Churchill after the former leader 's statue was defaced by protesters .
Mr Johnson , who has written a book about his predecessor , said : `` He was a hero , and I expect I am not alone in saying that I will resist with every breath in my body @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Parliament Square , and the sooner his protective shielding comes off the better . ''
Asked what he will do to combat racism in the UK , Mr Johnson vowed to `` champion the success '' of black and minority ethnic people .
He added : `` What I really want to do as prime minister is change the narrative so we stop the sense of victimisation and discrimination , we stamp out racism and we start to have a real sense of expectation of success .
`` That 's where I want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't be easy , we 'll have to look very carefully at the real racism and discrimination that people face .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' What we ca n't accept is people hijacking peaceful demonstrations and turning them into very ugly attacks on the police or on public monuments , we ca n't accept that , and people who do do that will face the full force of the law . ''
Full details of the review will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a government source said .
Commenting on the review , Labour 's shadow women and equalities secretary Marsha de Cordova said : `` We are in the midst of a global health pandemic that has sharply exposed deep structural inequalities which have long since needed urgently addressing .
`` That the prime minister now says he wants to 'change the narrative ... so we stop the sense of victimisation and discrimination ' is condescending and designed to let himself and his government off the hook .
`` Boris Johnson 's government must acknowledge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should now move to deliver a race equality strategy that sets out plans to reduce the structural inequalities and institutional racism faced by ethnic minorities in Britain . ''

Boris Johnson has promised a cross-government commission to tackle racism, but admitted it "won't be easy" to change attitudes in Britain.
The prime minister announced the review, designed to root out inequality in education, employment, health and many other sectors, after weeks of protests calling for an end to discrimination.
Writing in The Daily Telegraph, Mr Johnson warned the review must "tackle the substance of the problem, not symbols", as he condemned far-right "thugs" who attacked statues and fought with police at the weekend.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:35 Protests descend into violence
He also called for more black and minority ethnic people to be celebrated as British heroes and warned against trying to rewrite history.
Mr Johnson's words follow protests, both violent and peaceful, across the country in the wake of the killing of George Floyd in America at the hands of a white police officer.
He said: "No one who cares about this country can ignore the many thousands of people who have joined the Black Lives Movement to protest peacefully, as most of them have, in the last few days. It is no use just saying that we have made huge progress in tackling racism.
Image: Counter-protesters gathered around the boarded-up statue of Winston Churchill in Parliament Square
"There is much more that we need to do; and we will. It is time for a cross-governmental commission to look at all aspects of inequality - in employment, in health outcomes, in academic and all other walks of life. We need to tackle the substance of the problem, not the symbols.
"We need to address the present, not attempt to rewrite the past - and that means we cannot and must not get sucked into a never-ending debate about which well-known historical figure is sufficiently pure or politically correct to remain in public view."
Mr Johnson warned of attempts to erase history by tearing down statues and demanding key historical figures be condemned as racist.
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He added: "It is not just that it is wrong to destroy public property by violence. I am also extremely dubious about the growing campaign to edit or Photoshop the entire cultural landscape.
"If we start purging the record and removing the images of all but those whose attitudes conform to our own, we are engaged in a great lie, a distortion of our history - like some public figure furtively trying to make themselves look better by editing their own Wikipedia entry."
The prime minister also mounted an impassioned defence of Winston Churchill after the former leader's statue was defaced by protesters.
Mr Johnson, who has written a book about Churchill, said: "He was a hero, and I expect I am not alone in saying that I will resist with every breath in my body any attempt to remove that statue from Parliament Square, and the sooner his protective shielding comes off the better."
Asked what he will do to combat racism in the UK, Mr Johnson vowed to "champion the success" of black and minority ethnic people.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:19 'Absurd' to attack Churchill statue
He added: "What I really want to do as prime minister is change the narrative so we stop the sense of victimisation and discrimination, we stamp out racism and we start to have a real sense of expectation of success.
"That's where I want to get to, but it won't be easy, we'll have to look very carefully at the real racism and discrimination that people face.
:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
"What we can't accept is people hijacking peaceful demonstrations and turning them into very ugly attacks on the police or on public monuments, we can't accept that, and people who do do that will face the full force of the law."
Full details of the review will be provided in the coming days, a government source said.
Commenting on the review, Labour's shadow women and equalities secretary Marsha de Cordova said: "We are in the midst of a global health pandemic that has sharply exposed deep structural inequalities which have long since needed urgently addressing.
"That the prime minister now says he wants to 'change the narrative... so we stop the sense of victimisation and discrimination' is condescending and designed to let himself and his government off the hook.
"Boris Johnson's government must acknowledge and act on the racial injustices and should now move to deliver a race equality strategy that sets out plans to reduce the structural inequalities and institutional racism faced by ethnic minorities in Britain."
Race and Revolution: Is Change Going to Come?
Sky News will broadcast a global debate show on Tuesday night at 8pm - looking at the issues raised by the Black Lives Matter protests, and examining institutional racism and how we fix it.
If you would like to be part of our virtual audience, and have a chance of putting a question to our panel, please send your name, location and question to newsdebates@sky.uk.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-14--PM: 'I had absolutely nothing to do' with Tory donor planning row

Boris Johnson had `` absolutely nothing to do '' with a controversial decision to approve a major property scheme involving a Conservative Party donor .
Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick is currently under pressure over the Westferry Printworks redevelopment scheme in east London , which is being led by former Daily Express owner Richard Desmond 's Northern and Shell firm .
The scheme was approved in January by Mr Jenrick against the recommendation of a planning inspector .
The decision has since been reversed after legal action by Tower Hamlets Council , which had voiced concerns over the size of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2018 .
In a statement in May , the local authority said the `` timing of the decision appeared to show bias '' by Mr Jenrick as it was made a day before new infrastructure charges came into force .
This allowed Northern and Shell to avoid paying between £30m and £50m extra to the council .
Two weeks after Mr Jenrick stepped in to approve the housing scheme , Electoral Commission records show that Mr Desmond personally gave £12,000 to the Conservatives .
Labour have called for Mr Jenrick to provide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ development .
Asked about the controversy on Sunday - including claims Mr Johnson has previously met a lobbyist linked to the project - the prime minister said : `` I can assure you I had absolutely nothing to do with that .
`` I think the most important thing is to recognise that , here in London and across the whole country , we do need to get development going on .
`` This is totally irrelevant to that particular case , I do n't know about that particular case or that particular @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the country , we now need to get development going and we need to make sure that here in London the good developments , good affordable housing , fantastic new homes are not held up by the mayor ( Sadiq Khan ) , frankly , who is putting in some quite challenging targets for social housing that basically make development impossible .
`` And that 's the issue we face here .
`` What I want to see is great new homes going up across the country , and that 's what this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Asked if Mr Jenrick had done the right thing , Mr Johnson replied : `` As far as I know of course he did . ''
Mr Johnson approved an initial development scheme proposed by Mr Desmond on the Westferry Printworks site when he was London mayor in 2016 .
This came after Mr Johnson used his powers to take responsibility for the planning application from Tower Hamlets council .
New plans for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Johnson was no longer at City Hall - to add an extra tower with around 1,500 new homes , as well as restaurants , bars and other commercial space .
Unmesh Desai , a Labour member of the London Assembly , has written to Met Police commissioner Cressida Dick to say there is `` prima facie '' case for a police investigation into the development .
Shadow communities and local government secretary Steve Reed said : `` The prime minister 's extraordinary insistence that Robert Jenrick 'did the right thing ' , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his decision was unlawful has done even more damage to trust in the planning system .
`` The latest revelations expose the murky relationship between No 10 , senior government ministers and lobbyists for billionaire property developers - they warrant urgent investigation by the cabinet secretary into any wrongdoing .
`` Ministers must not put the planning process up for sale to their wealthy friends .
The only disinfectant that can clear the stench around this decision is honesty .
Mr Jenrick must immediately publish all correspondence about this case to allow full @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to . ''

Boris Johnson had "absolutely nothing to do" with a controversial decision to approve a major property scheme involving a Conservative Party donor.
Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick is currently under pressure over the Westferry Printworks redevelopment scheme in east London, which is being led by former Daily Express owner Richard Desmond's Northern and Shell firm.
The scheme was approved in January by Mr Jenrick against the recommendation of a planning inspector.
Image: Housing secretary Robert Jenrick is facing questions over the Westferry scheme
The decision has since been reversed after legal action by Tower Hamlets Council, which had voiced concerns over the size of the development when the plans were first submitted in 2018.
In a statement in May, the local authority said the "timing of the decision appeared to show bias" by Mr Jenrick as it was made a day before new infrastructure charges came into force.
This allowed Northern and Shell to avoid paying between £30m and £50m extra to the council.
Two weeks after Mr Jenrick stepped in to approve the housing scheme, Electoral Commission records show that Mr Desmond personally gave £12,000 to the Conservatives.
Labour have called for Mr Jenrick to provide "full transparency" over the Westferry development.
Asked about the controversy on Sunday - including claims Mr Johnson has previously met a lobbyist linked to the project - the prime minister said: "I can assure you I had absolutely nothing to do with that.
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"I meet people the whole time.
"I think the most important thing is to recognise that, here in London and across the whole country, we do need to get development going on.
"This is totally irrelevant to that particular case, I don't know about that particular case or that particular planning decision.
"But, across the country, we now need to get development going and we need to make sure that here in London the good developments, good affordable housing, fantastic new homes are not held up by the mayor (Sadiq Khan), frankly, who is putting in some quite challenging targets for social housing that basically make development impossible.
"And that's the issue we face here.
"What I want to see is great new homes going up across the country, and that's what this government is going to do."
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:: Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Asked if Mr Jenrick had done the right thing, Mr Johnson replied: "As far as I know of course he did."
Mr Johnson approved an initial development scheme proposed by Mr Desmond on the Westferry Printworks site when he was London mayor in 2016.
This came after Mr Johnson used his powers to take responsibility for the planning application from Tower Hamlets council.
New plans for the site were submitted in 2018 - when Mr Johnson was no longer at City Hall - to add an extra tower with around 1,500 new homes, as well as restaurants, bars and other commercial space.
Unmesh Desai, a Labour member of the London Assembly, has written to Met Police commissioner Cressida Dick to say there is "prima facie" case for a police investigation into the development.
Shadow communities and local government secretary Steve Reed said: "The prime minister's extraordinary insistence that Robert Jenrick 'did the right thing', even though Mr Jenrick has now admitted his decision was unlawful has done even more damage to trust in the planning system.
"The latest revelations expose the murky relationship between No 10, senior government ministers and lobbyists for billionaire property developers - they warrant urgent investigation by the cabinet secretary into any wrongdoing.
"Ministers must not put the planning process up for sale to their wealthy friends. The only disinfectant that can clear the stench around this decision is honesty. Mr Jenrick must immediately publish all correspondence about this case to allow full public scrutiny of what he's been up to."


skynewspolitics--2020-06-14--'Winning the battle': UK sees lowest rise in deaths since lockdown began

The UK has recorded the lowest number of daily coronavirus deaths since before nationwide lockdown measures were introduced .
After the figures were released , Health Secretary Matt Hancock tweeted : `` Yesterday , across the UK , only 36 deaths were recorded with coronavirus - the lowest since 21 March .
`` We are winning the battle against this horrible disease . ''
The official total of UK deaths across all settings now stands at 41,698 .
According to the Department for Health and Social Care , more than 6.7 million coronavirus tests had been conducted in the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 144,865 carried out on Saturday .
However , figures are still not being made available for how many individual people were tested .
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker In total , 295,889 people have tested positive for coronavirus in the UK , although the actual number of people to have contracted the disease is likely to be much higher .
Since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic , there have been more than 63,000 excess deaths in the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for National Statistics .
Of those , just under 50,200 have been linked to COVID-19 .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced lockdown measures in the UK on 23 March , and some restrictions have since been eased .

The UK has recorded the lowest number of daily coronavirus deaths since before nationwide lockdown measures were introduced.
After the figures were released, Health Secretary Matt Hancock tweeted: "Yesterday, across the UK, only 36 deaths were recorded with coronavirus - the lowest since 21 March.
"We are winning the battle against this horrible disease."
The official total of UK deaths across all settings now stands at 41,698.
According to the Department for Health and Social Care, more than 6.7 million coronavirus tests had been conducted in the UK as of 9am on Sunday - with 144,865 carried out on Saturday.
However, figures are still not being made available for how many individual people were tested.
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
:: Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
In total, 295,889 people have tested positive for coronavirus in the UK, although the actual number of people to have contracted the disease is likely to be much higher.
Since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, there have been more than 63,000 excess deaths in the UK, according to figures from the Office for National Statistics.
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Of those, just under 50,200 have been linked to COVID-19.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced lockdown measures in the UK on 23 March, and some restrictions have since been eased.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-14--No reduction in two-metre rule until next month, says PM

Boris Johnson has suggested there will be no reduction in the two-metre social distancing rule until next month .
The prime minister has launched an `` urgent '' comprehensive review into the coronavirus guideline .
But he revealed on Sunday the two-metre rule would remain under review until the next stage of the government 's planned reopening of the economy , scheduled for 4 July .
Non-essential retail shops are being allowed to open in England from Monday but pubs , clubs , restaurants , hairdressers and beauty salons are being told to stay closed .
This is due to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in person-to-person contact over longer periods .
The government is under pressure to reduce the two-metre rule to one metre , as is recommended in countries such as France , Denmark and Singapore .
It has been claimed two-thirds of English pubs will be forced to stay closed unless the rule is reduced to one metre .
Senior Conservative MPs are urging the government to act now in order to save millions of jobs in the hospitality sector .
A relaxation of the measure could also help more schools to reopen and allow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Johnson was asked about the review of the social distancing guideline on a visit to Westfield Stratford City , a shopping centre in east London , on Sunday .
`` We 'll work very closely with the scientists at all times and make the right decision on the basis of safety , health and stopping the disease , '' he said .
`` The question for us is - as we get the numbers down so it becomes one in 1,000 ( people infected with coronavirus ) , one in 1,600 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being two metres or one metre or even a foot away from somebody who has the virus are obviously going down statistically .
`` So you start to build some more margin for manoeuvre and we 'll be looking at that , and we 'll be keeping it under constant review as we go forward to the next step in our plan , which is 4 July .
`` So we 'll be keeping it under review for 4 July . ''
But the prime minister stressed he would not `` sacrifice the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in combating the spread of COVID-19 .
`` The country has come together to squash the incidence of the disease down and that gives us the potential now to look at those rules , '' he added .
: : Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Earlier , Chancellor Rishi Sunak told Sky News ' Sophy Ridge on Sunday show that Mr Johnson had `` put in place a comprehensive review of the two-metre rule '' .
`` Now we have made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we 're at a different stage of the epidemic than we were at the beginning , and that enables us to take a fresh look at this , '' he said .
`` Obviously many other countries around the world use a different rule '' We have seen a couple of countries recently - Norway and Denmark - have moved from two metres to something less . ''
Mr Sunak added : `` It is important we look at it comprehensively in the round and that is what we will do urgently .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` positive impact '' a reduction in the two-metre rule would have on businesses ' ability to reopen .
Former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith pointed to recent economic data that showed the UK suffered the biggest collapse in GDP ever seen as it plunged by 20.4 % in April .
`` There is a real economic imperative to get the economy moving again , '' he told Sky News , as he expressed his hope the two-metre rule would be reduced `` quickly '' .
`` One of the problems in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rule hamstrings us in a whole series of areas . ''
Labour 's shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds warned if the government moved to a one-metre rule without it being supported by scientists , there would be a risk of a second peak of coronavirus infections which `` could cause even greater economic damage '' .

Boris Johnson has suggested there will be no reduction in the two-metre social distancing rule until next month.
The prime minister has launched an "urgent" comprehensive review into the coronavirus guideline.
But he revealed on Sunday the two-metre rule would remain under review until the next stage of the government's planned reopening of the economy, scheduled for 4 July.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:58 Chancellor announces two-metre rule review
Non-essential retail shops are being allowed to open in England from Monday but pubs, clubs, restaurants, hairdressers and beauty salons are being told to stay closed.
This is due to the greater risk of transmission of COVID-19 in person-to-person contact over longer periods.
The government is under pressure to reduce the two-metre rule to one metre, as is recommended in countries such as France, Denmark and Singapore.
It has been claimed two-thirds of English pubs will be forced to stay closed unless the rule is reduced to one metre.
Image: In France a one-metre distance is recommended
Senior Conservative MPs are urging the government to act now in order to save millions of jobs in the hospitality sector.
A relaxation of the measure could also help more schools to reopen and allow more pupils to return to classrooms.
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Mr Johnson was asked about the review of the social distancing guideline on a visit to Westfield Stratford City, a shopping centre in east London, on Sunday.
"We'll work very closely with the scientists at all times and make the right decision on the basis of safety, health and stopping the disease," he said.
"The question for us is - as we get the numbers down so it becomes one in 1,000 (people infected with coronavirus), one in 1,600, maybe even fewer - your chances of being two metres or one metre or even a foot away from somebody who has the virus are obviously going down statistically.
"So you start to build some more margin for manoeuvre and we'll be looking at that, and we'll be keeping it under constant review as we go forward to the next step in our plan, which is 4 July.
"So we'll be keeping it under review for 4 July."
But the prime minister stressed he would not "sacrifice the huge efforts of the British people" in combating the spread of COVID-19.
"The country has come together to squash the incidence of the disease down and that gives us the potential now to look at those rules," he added.
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
:: Listen to the All Out Politics podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Earlier, Chancellor Rishi Sunak told Sky News' Sophy Ridge on Sunday show that Mr Johnson had "put in place a comprehensive review of the two-metre rule".
"Now we have made good progress in suppressing the virus, we're at a different stage of the epidemic than we were at the beginning, and that enables us to take a fresh look at this," he said.
"Obviously many other countries around the world use a different rule
Image: The UK has a two-metre rule, but other countries only recommend one metre
"We have seen a couple of countries recently - Norway and Denmark - have moved from two metres to something less."
Mr Sunak added: "It is important we look at it comprehensively in the round and that is what we will do urgently."
Image: Many pubs will have to remain shut without a reduction in the two-metre rule, it has been claimed
The chancellor said he understood the "positive impact" a reduction in the two-metre rule would have on businesses' ability to reopen.
Former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith pointed to recent economic data that showed the UK suffered the biggest collapse in GDP ever seen as it plunged by 20.4% in April.
"There is a real economic imperative to get the economy moving again," he told Sky News, as he expressed his hope the two-metre rule would be reduced "quickly".
"One of the problems in moving the economy is that the two-metre rule hamstrings us in a whole series of areas."
Labour's shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds warned if the government moved to a one-metre rule without it being supported by scientists, there would be a risk of a second peak of coronavirus infections which "could cause even greater economic damage".


skynewspolitics--2020-06-14--PM vows to tackle racism - but says we cannot 'Photoshop the cultural landscape'

Boris Johnson has promised a cross-government commission to tackle racism , but admitted it `` wo n't be easy '' to change attitudes in Britain .
The prime minister announced the review , designed to root out inequality in education , employment , health and many other sectors , after weeks of protests calling for an end to discrimination .
Writing in The Daily Telegraph , Mr Johnson warned the review must `` tackle the substance of the problem , not symbols '' , as he condemned far-right `` thugs '' who attacked statues and fought with police at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ black and minority ethnic people to be celebrated as British heroes and warned against trying to rewrite history .
Mr Johnson 's words follow protests , both violent and peaceful , across the country in the wake of the killing of George Floyd in America at the hands of a white police officer .
He said : `` No one who cares about this country can ignore the many thousands of people who have joined the Black Lives Movement to protest peacefully , as most of them have , in the last few @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saying that we have made huge progress in tackling racism .
`` There is much more that we need to do ; and we will .
It is time for a cross-governmental commission to look at all aspects of inequality - in employment , in health outcomes , in academic and all other walks of life .
We need to tackle the substance of the problem , not the symbols .
`` We need to address the present , not attempt to rewrite the past - and that means we can not and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ debate about which well-known historical figure is sufficiently pure or politically correct to remain in public view . ''
Mr Johnson warned of attempts to erase history by tearing down statues and demanding key historical figures be condemned as racist .
He added : `` It is not just that it is wrong to destroy public property by violence .
I am also extremely dubious about the growing campaign to edit or Photoshop the entire cultural landscape .
`` If we start purging the record and removing the images of all but those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we are engaged in a great lie , a distortion of our history - like some public figure furtively trying to make themselves look better by editing their own Wikipedia entry . ''
The prime minister also mounted an impassioned defence of Winston Churchill after the former leader 's statue was defaced by protesters .
Mr Johnson , who has written a book about Churchill , said : `` He was a hero , and I expect I am not alone in saying that I will resist with every breath in my body @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Parliament Square , and the sooner his protective shielding comes off the better . ''
Asked what he will do to combat racism in the UK , Mr Johnson vowed to `` champion the success '' of black and minority ethnic people .
He added : `` What I really want to do as prime minister is change the narrative so we stop the sense of victimisation and discrimination , we stamp out racism and we start to have a real sense of expectation of success .
`` That 's where I want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't be easy , we 'll have to look very carefully at the real racism and discrimination that people face .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' What we ca n't accept is people hijacking peaceful demonstrations and turning them into very ugly attacks on the police or on public monuments , we ca n't accept that , and people who do do that will face the full force of the law . ''
Full details of the review will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a government source said .
Commenting on the review , Labour 's shadow women and equalities secretary Marsha de Cordova said : `` We are in the midst of a global health pandemic that has sharply exposed deep structural inequalities which have long since needed urgently addressing .
`` That the prime minister now says he wants to 'change the narrative ... so we stop the sense of victimisation and discrimination ' is condescending and designed to let himself and his government off the hook .
`` Boris Johnson 's government must acknowledge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should now move to deliver a race equality strategy that sets out plans to reduce the structural inequalities and institutional racism faced by ethnic minorities in Britain . ''
Race and Revolution : Is Change Going to Come ?
Sky News will broadcast a global debate show on Tuesday night at 8pm - looking at the issues raised by the Black Lives Matter protests , and examining institutional racism and how we fix it .
If you would like to be part of our virtual audience , and have a chance of putting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ send your name , location and question to newsdebates @ sky.uk .


skynewspolitics--2020-06-14--US trade deal 'could pose greatest risk to UK food since BSE crisis'

A US trade deal could pose the greatest risk to food safety since the mad cow disease crisis 20 years ago , the government has been warned .
Consumer group Which ?
has written to International Trade Secretary Liz Truss as a new round of negotiations gets under way between US and UK officials .
The letter , seen by Sky News , raises concerns that the government has changed its stance on animal welfare and food safety in order to strike a US trade deal .
Research by Which ?
shows that 72 % of the British public do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and hormone-fed beef to be allowed on sale in the UK at all .
In his election manifesto , Boris Johnson promised the UK would `` not compromise on our high environmental protection , animal welfare and food standards '' .
But recent attempts by MPs to insert a permanent ban into legislation have failed , and ministers are understood to be considering proposals to allow in some of these products .
Sue Davies , head of consumer protection and food policy at Which ?
, told Sky News : `` We 're @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be backtracking on its commitments . ''
In a letter to Ms Truss , she wrote : `` The UK should be proud of the strides we have made over the past two decades to ensure that wherever people buy and eat food it is underpinned by robust safety , quality and welfare standards .
`` Since the BSE crisis , the UK has led a food safety revolution that has given us an enviable system across the food chain .
`` This could all be at risk depending on the approach that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ second round of trade talks with the US on Monday . ''
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Which ?
urges the government to `` leave the issue out of trade deals altogether '' , but US trade deals tend to prioritise giving American farmers access to new markets .
In a newspaper article in January , US ambassador Woody Johnson argued that chlorinated chicken is safe and must `` absolutely be included '' in the talks on a US trade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including some in the cabinet , are open to overturning the UK 's ban on these products and allowing shoppers to make their own choice .
To prevent UK farmers being undercut , one proposal under consideration is a `` dual tariff '' system whereby any imported US meat produced using these controversial methods would be slapped with a high tariff .
Meanwhile , produce which meets current UK standards would be charged at a lower rate , or exempt .
Ms Davies said letting these products into the UK at all would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cheap food - available in schools and NHS canteens for example - would have lower standards .
Chlorine-washing chicken is done to eliminate infection , and hormones are given to animals to boost yield , but campaigners say these practices allow lower welfare standards and poorer hygiene in the farming process .
A government spokesperson said : `` We remain firmly committed to upholding our high environmental , food safety and animal welfare standards outside the EU , and the EU Withdrawal Act will transfer all existing EU food safety provisions , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK statute book .
`` These import standards include a ban on using artificial growth hormones in domestic and imported products and set out that no products , other than potable water , are approved to decontaminate poultry carcasses .
`` Any changes to existing food safety legislation would require new legislation to be brought before this parliament . ''
The spokesperson added that UK food standards are overseen by the Food Standards Agency whose decisions `` will be made separately from any trade agreement '' .
Ms Truss , who represents a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ month that a US trade deal would represent a `` huge opportunity for all farmers '' to reach new markets , and that standards would be set so that `` British farmers are always able to compete '' .
But some senior Tory MPs fear the government is prepared to use its 80-seat majority to end the ban in order to strike a deal with the US .
Today 's second round of talks will last two weeks , with around 100 negotiators on each side meeting remotely .
Former environment secretary Theresa @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ban on chlorine-washed chicken and hormone-fed beef .
She said : `` I was very clear that the bans must remain in place .
But there seems to have been a change and the government is not giving the assurances which I was that these bans will remain on the statute book .
`` An unprecedented coalition of farmers , environmentalists and welfare campaigners are saying we should uphold our values and reflect them in our trade policy .
`` Our negotiating team should not sell those short and should be prepared to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ demands . ''
The BSE , or mad cow disease , crisis in the 1980s and 1990s was devastating for UK farmers .
Over four million cows were slaughtered to contain the outbreak , and 177 people died after contracting the human form of the disease .
British beef exports were banned by many countries for years afterwards , and it led to much tighter food standards in the UK .

A US trade deal could pose the greatest risk to food safety since the mad cow disease crisis 20 years ago, the government has been warned.
Consumer group Which? has written to International Trade Secretary Liz Truss as a new round of negotiations gets under way between US and UK officials.
The letter, seen by Sky News, raises concerns that the government has changed its stance on animal welfare and food safety in order to strike a US trade deal.
Research by Which? shows that 72% of the British public do not want products such as chlorine-washed chicken and hormone-fed beef to be allowed on sale in the UK at all.
In his election manifesto, Boris Johnson promised the UK would "not compromise on our high environmental protection, animal welfare and food standards".
Image: Liz Truss is about to enter a second round of trade talks with the US
But recent attempts by MPs to insert a permanent ban into legislation have failed, and ministers are understood to be considering proposals to allow in some of these products.
Sue Davies, head of consumer protection and food policy at Which?, told Sky News: "We're very concerned that the government seems to be backtracking on its commitments."
In a letter to Ms Truss, she wrote: "The UK should be proud of the strides we have made over the past two decades to ensure that wherever people buy and eat food it is underpinned by robust safety, quality and welfare standards.
"Since the BSE crisis, the UK has led a food safety revolution that has given us an enviable system across the food chain.
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"This could all be at risk depending on the approach that the government takes when it begins a second round of trade talks with the US on Monday."
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Which? urges the government to "leave the issue out of trade deals altogether", but US trade deals tend to prioritise giving American farmers access to new markets.
In a newspaper article in January, US ambassador Woody Johnson argued that chlorinated chicken is safe and must "absolutely be included" in the talks on a US trade deal.
Image: Consumer group Which? has raised concerns
Free market Tory MPs, including some in the cabinet, are open to overturning the UK's ban on these products and allowing shoppers to make their own choice.
To prevent UK farmers being undercut, one proposal under consideration is a "dual tariff" system whereby any imported US meat produced using these controversial methods would be slapped with a high tariff.
Meanwhile, produce which meets current UK standards would be charged at a lower rate, or exempt.
Ms Davies said letting these products into the UK at all would create a "two-tier system" whereby cheap food - available in schools and NHS canteens for example - would have lower standards.
Chlorine-washing chicken is done to eliminate infection, and hormones are given to animals to boost yield, but campaigners say these practices allow lower welfare standards and poorer hygiene in the farming process.
A government spokesperson said: "We remain firmly committed to upholding our high environmental, food safety and animal welfare standards outside the EU, and the EU Withdrawal Act will transfer all existing EU food safety provisions, including existing import requirements, on to the UK statute book.
"These import standards include a ban on using artificial growth hormones in domestic and imported products and set out that no products, other than potable water, are approved to decontaminate poultry carcasses.
"Any changes to existing food safety legislation would require new legislation to be brought before this parliament."
The spokesperson added that UK food standards are overseen by the Food Standards Agency whose decisions "will be made separately from any trade agreement".
Ms Truss, who represents a rural constituency in Norfolk, said last month that a US trade deal would represent a "huge opportunity for all farmers" to reach new markets, and that standards would be set so that "British farmers are always able to compete".
But some senior Tory MPs fear the government is prepared to use its 80-seat majority to end the ban in order to strike a deal with the US.
Today's second round of talks will last two weeks, with around 100 negotiators on each side meeting remotely.
Image: Theresa Villiers wants the UK to keep its ban on chlorine-washed chicken and hormone-fed beef
Former environment secretary Theresa Villiers wants the UK to keep its ban on chlorine-washed chicken and hormone-fed beef.
She said: "I was very clear that the bans must remain in place. But there seems to have been a change and the government is not giving the assurances which I was that these bans will remain on the statute book.
"An unprecedented coalition of farmers, environmentalists and welfare campaigners are saying we should uphold our values and reflect them in our trade policy.
"Our negotiating team should not sell those short and should be prepared to walk away if the Americans make unreasonable demands."
The BSE, or mad cow disease, crisis in the 1980s and 1990s was devastating for UK farmers.
Over four million cows were slaughtered to contain the outbreak, and 177 people died after contracting the human form of the disease.
British beef exports were banned by many countries for years afterwards, and it led to much tighter food standards in the UK.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-15--'3.5 million jobs at risk' if two-metre rule isn't eased, Johnson warned

A decision on the future of the two-metre rule will be `` underpinned '' by science , the foreign secretary has said , as Downing Street was warned `` millions of people depend on this decision '' .
Some Conservative MPs - such as Imran Khan - have claimed 3.5 million jobs are at risk if the restrictions are n't eased .
Speaking at the latest coronavirus news briefing , Dominic Raab the restriction is `` something that can be looked at '' as the virus is brought under control .
`` There 's no magic to one or other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ levels of risk whether it 's at two metres , one-and-a-half metres or one metre , '' he said .
The foreign secretary added : `` We are still going to make sure that all of the policy judgements that we rightly as politicians take and are accountable for are underpinned by the science . ''
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has ordered a `` comprehensive review '' into the measure , which has been in place since March .
Since then , people in the UK have been told to maintain social distancing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ household .
This has meant trying to keep two metres ( 6.5ft ) apart from others when outside , at work and in shops and supermarkets .
Government guidance acknowledges that `` this will not always be possible '' , but adds that the risk of infection increases the closer you are to someone with the virus .
France , Denmark and Singapore are among the nations that have a one-metre rule .
The World Health Organisation also recommends maintaining a distance of `` at least '' one metre .
But the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comes to advocating two metres - Canada and Spain also have a two-metre restriction in place .
A Downing Street spokesman said on Monday the review into the restriction would be completed in the `` coming weeks '' .
But a number of Conservative MPs want the findings to be published sooner .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker They argue businesses like pubs and restaurants - which could begin to reopen on 4 July as part of the next phase @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prepare .
Supporters of reducing the restriction to one metre say it would allow significantly more businesses , particularly in hospitality , to open their doors once more .
They also argue it would protect thousands of jobs and allow more pupils to go back to school .
Former Conservative minister Greg Clark , who is now chair of the Commons Science and Technology Committee , told MPs it was `` peculiar '' that `` almost all other countries '' have a smaller distance in place .
He said : `` Many of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but require face coverings to be worn .
Why is it right for them but wrong for us ? ''
Mr Clark added : `` Millions of people , workers in pubs , cafes and restaurants and in manufacturing industries , as well as children going to school and young adults in colleges and universities , depend on this decision .
`` We 're fortunate in this country in having some of the very best scientists in the world , but so far our outcomes have not always been the very best in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officials and scientists should have the confidence , as good science itself does , to rigorously challenge current thinking and to apply lessons from the experience of others . ''
This was echoed by Tobias Ellwood , with the former minister saying `` it 's now time for the government to decide '' .
Fellow Tory MP Gary Sambrook said businesses are `` desperate '' for a reduction `` so that they can survive '' .
Sir John Redwood claimed the scientific evidence was `` mixed and muddled '' , as he called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` If we want our hospitality industry to survive in any form , they need to know today so that they can prepare their routes and their tables and their screens and all the rest of it , leaving it until 4 July means many more lost jobs , '' he said .
Labour 's shadow health minister Justin Madders also pushed the government on when the findings of the review would be published .
`` We all want society to reopen but we do need to know the basis from which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they will be made by , '' he said .
Richard Burgon , a former shadow minister under Jeremy Corbyn , said the government would be `` putting profits before public safety '' if a one-metre restriction was introduced .
SNP health spokeswoman Dr Philippa Whitford said ministers `` ca n't just wish away the fact that the risk of transmission increases as people get closer and more than doubles from two metres to one '' .

A decision on the future of the two-metre rule will be "underpinned" by science, the foreign secretary has said, as Downing Street was warned "millions of people depend on this decision".
Some Conservative MPs - such as Imran Khan - have claimed 3.5 million jobs are at risk if the restrictions aren't eased.
Speaking at the latest coronavirus news briefing, Dominic Raab the restriction is "something that can be looked at" as the virus is brought under control.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:58 Sunak announces two-metre rule review
"There's no magic to one or other particular measure, there will be different levels of risk whether it's at two metres, one-and-a-half metres or one metre," he said.
The foreign secretary added: "We are still going to make sure that all of the policy judgements that we rightly as politicians take and are accountable for are underpinned by the science."
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has ordered a "comprehensive review" into the measure, which has been in place since March.
Since then, people in the UK have been told to maintain social distancing when around others from outside their own household.
This has meant trying to keep two metres (6.5ft) apart from others when outside, at work and in shops and supermarkets.
Government guidance acknowledges that "this will not always be possible", but adds that the risk of infection increases the closer you are to someone with the virus.
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France, Denmark and Singapore are among the nations that have a one-metre rule.
The World Health Organisation also recommends maintaining a distance of "at least" one metre.
But the UK is not an international outlier when it comes to advocating two metres - Canada and Spain also have a two-metre restriction in place.
A Downing Street spokesman said on Monday the review into the restriction would be completed in the "coming weeks".
But a number of Conservative MPs want the findings to be published sooner.
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:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
They argue businesses like pubs and restaurants - which could begin to reopen on 4 July as part of the next phase of easing lockdown - need time to prepare.
Supporters of reducing the restriction to one metre say it would allow significantly more businesses, particularly in hospitality, to open their doors once more.
They also argue it would protect thousands of jobs and allow more pupils to go back to school.
Former Conservative minister Greg Clark, who is now chair of the Commons Science and Technology Committee, told MPs it was "peculiar" that "almost all other countries" have a smaller distance in place.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:32 Why does the two-metre rule matter?
He said: "Many of these countries have a shorter distance rule but require face coverings to be worn. Why is it right for them but wrong for us?"
Mr Clark added: "Millions of people, workers in pubs, cafes and restaurants and in manufacturing industries, as well as children going to school and young adults in colleges and universities, depend on this decision.
"We're fortunate in this country in having some of the very best scientists in the world, but so far our outcomes have not always been the very best in the world.
"Therefore ministers, officials and scientists should have the confidence, as good science itself does, to rigorously challenge current thinking and to apply lessons from the experience of others."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:09 Huge queues as England's shops reopen
This was echoed by Tobias Ellwood, with the former minister saying "it's now time for the government to decide".
Fellow Tory MP Gary Sambrook said businesses are "desperate" for a reduction "so that they can survive".
Sir John Redwood claimed the scientific evidence was "mixed and muddled", as he called for an immediate reduction to one metre.
"If we want our hospitality industry to survive in any form, they need to know today so that they can prepare their routes and their tables and their screens and all the rest of it, leaving it until 4 July means many more lost jobs," he said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:48 PM: 'People should shop with confidence'
Labour's shadow health minister Justin Madders also pushed the government on when the findings of the review would be published.
"We all want society to reopen but we do need to know the basis from which any changes will be made and when they will be made by," he said.
Richard Burgon, a former shadow minister under Jeremy Corbyn, said the government would be "putting profits before public safety" if a one-metre restriction was introduced.
SNP health spokeswoman Dr Philippa Whitford said ministers "can't just wish away the fact that the risk of transmission increases as people get closer and more than doubles from two metres to one".


skynewspolitics--2020-06-15--Experts will still appear at coronavirus briefings - but 'perhaps not every day'

Medical and scientific advisers will continue to appear at the government 's coronavirus briefings - but `` perhaps not on a daily basis '' .
Dominic Raab was asked about why the weekly appearances by experts have reduced since the beginning of the month .
The foreign secretary , who appeared alone at Monday 's COVID-19 news briefing in Downing Street , said : `` Scientists and the chief and deputy medical officers will continue to come and attend these press conferences .
`` I think it is also true to say that as we go down the road map @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we are making , whether it is to business , schools or other areas , we will also bring other independent experts along and make sure we can answer the full range of questions that people have . ''
When it was put to him that there were some questions that medical experts would be better equipped at answering than politicians , Mr Raab responded : `` Well , you have n't tried me on a question I ca n't answer yet but I am happy to be proved wrong .
`` Look @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scientists and the medical advisers are important .
`` They will continue to attend these press conferences , perhaps not on a daily basis - they 've got a huge amount of other work to do - and undoubtedly the politicians need to answer the judgement calls we make based on the evolving science . ''
It comes after a spokesman for Prime Minister Boris Johnson said there was not an issue in the government 's relationship with scientists amid the coronavirus pandemic .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Spreaker Last week , Transport Secretary Grant Shapps denied reports that Ruth May , the chief nursing officer for England , was dropped from the briefings because she refused to defend Dominic Cummings , the PM 's top adviser .
According to reports , she stood down from a briefing when she refused to support his decision to move his family 260 miles to Durham to stay on his parents ' farm during lockdown .
Reports have suggested that England 's chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty and Sir Patrick Vallance , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on `` resignation watch '' .
Both men appeared alongside the PM at the coronavirus news conference last Wednesday , but other experts have not been seen at them this month .
Professor Jonathan Van-Tam and Dr Jenny Harries , two of the three deputy chief medical officers for England , last appeared on 30 and 31 May respectively .
Professor Stephen Powis , national medical director of NHS England , has featured at one briefing so far this month , having attended eight of them in May .
Asked by reporters at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an issue between ministers and the scientists , Mr Johnson 's spokesman said : `` No - last week you saw , from memory , the chief medical officer , the chief scientific adviser , you saw NHS England 's medical director , you saw Baroness Harding who is in charge of test and trace , you also saw the Health and Safety Executive and a couple of others as well ... '' There wo n't be an expert there every day but you will still see them . ''

Medical and scientific advisers will continue to appear at the government's coronavirus briefings - but "perhaps not on a daily basis".
Dominic Raab was asked about why the weekly appearances by experts have reduced since the beginning of the month.
The foreign secretary, who appeared alone at Monday's COVID-19 news briefing in Downing Street, said: "Scientists and the chief and deputy medical officers will continue to come and attend these press conferences.
Image: Dominic Raab said politicians will 'need to answer the judgment calls we make based on the evolving science'
"I think it is also true to say that as we go down the road map and start to talk about the changes we are making, whether it is to business, schools or other areas, we will also bring other independent experts along and make sure we can answer the full range of questions that people have."
When it was put to him that there were some questions that medical experts would be better equipped at answering than politicians, Mr Raab responded: "Well, you haven't tried me on a question I can't answer yet but I am happy to be proved wrong.
"Look, you are right to say the scientists and the medical advisers are important.
"They will continue to attend these press conferences, perhaps not on a daily basis - they've got a huge amount of other work to do - and undoubtedly the politicians need to answer the judgement calls we make based on the evolving science."
It comes after a spokesman for Prime Minister Boris Johnson said there was not an issue in the government's relationship with scientists amid the coronavirus pandemic.
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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Last week, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps denied reports that Ruth May, the chief nursing officer for England, was dropped from the briefings because she refused to defend Dominic Cummings, the PM's top adviser.
According to reports, she stood down from a briefing when she refused to support his decision to move his family 260 miles to Durham to stay on his parents' farm during lockdown.
Reports have suggested that England's chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty and Sir Patrick Vallance, the government's chief scientific adviser were on "resignation watch".
Both men appeared alongside the PM at the coronavirus news conference last Wednesday, but other experts have not been seen at them this month.
Professor Jonathan Van-Tam and Dr Jenny Harries, two of the three deputy chief medical officers for England, last appeared on 30 and 31 May respectively.
Professor Stephen Powis, national medical director of NHS England, has featured at one briefing so far this month, having attended eight of them in May.
Asked by reporters at a virtual Westminster briefing if there was an issue between ministers and the scientists, Mr Johnson's spokesman said: "No - last week you saw, from memory, the chief medical officer, the chief scientific adviser, you saw NHS England's medical director, you saw Baroness Harding who is in charge of test and trace, you also saw the Health and Safety Executive and a couple of others as well...
"There won't be an expert there every day but you will still see them."


skynewspolitics--2020-06-15--'A tiger in the tank but not a pig in a poke', says EU chief after PM talks

Boris Johnson has set an end-of-summer deadline for a trade deal with the EU - but has been warned a `` level playing field '' is `` essential '' to an agreement .
The prime minister held talks on Monday with European Council president Charles Michel , European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen and European Parliament president David Sassoli .
The meeting came after the stalling of negotiations on a future UK-EU relationship on areas of difficulty , such as fisheries and so-called `` level playing field '' commitments for the UK to abide by EU rules and standards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Michel said a `` broad and ambitious agreement '' was in both sides ' `` mutual interest '' .
`` Ready to put a tiger in the tank but not to buy a pig in a poke , '' he posted on Twitter .
But the European Council president added : `` Level playing field is essential . ''
Mr Michel 's turn-of-phrase was an apparent repetition of Mr Johnson 's own words .
After the talks , the prime minister revealed he had told the three presidents to `` put a tiger @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a `` bit of oomph '' in negotiations on a future UK-EU relationship .
Mr Johnson also appeared to set an end-of-summer deadline for agreeing a trade deal .
And he reiterated his view - in apparent defiance of Mr Michel 's own statement - that the UK `` ca n't leave the EU and remain , somehow , controlled by EU law '' .
`` That is n't going to work , '' the prime minister said .
`` But there is a good deal to be done .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( the trade negotiations ) going on until the autumn or winter , as I think - perhaps - in Brussels they would like .
`` I do n't see any point in that , so let 's get it done . ''
The prime minister said he saw `` no reason '' why a trade deal could n't be agreed next month .
`` It 's very clear what we need to achieve , I do n't think we 're actually that far apart , '' he said .
A joint UK-EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ both sides had `` welcomed the constructive discussions on the future relationship that had taken place '' .
It had allowed `` both sides to clarify and further understand positions '' , the statement added .
`` The parties agreed nevertheless that new momentum was required . ''
Mr Johnson and the EU presidents ratified plans to intensify talks on a future relationship in July and to `` create the most conducive conditions for concluding and ratifying a deal before the end of 2020 '' .
The statement also revealed they had spoken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he will not extend the Brexit transition period beyond 31 December , despite the EU 's preference for an extension .
`` The transition period will therefore end on 31 December 2020 , in line with the provisions of the withdrawal agreement , '' the statement said .
Last week , it was announced a new timetable for trade talks would see negotiations held in each of the five weeks between the week beginning 29 June and week beginning 27 July .
The UK officially left the EU in January but is currently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it maintains the status quo of membership of the bloc .
If the Brexit transition period ends without a deal being struck , the UK will likely have to trade with the EU on World Trade Organisation terms from next year .
Earlier on Monday , ahead of the meeting , Mr Johnson 's spokesman said the PM would use the talks `` to urge renewed energy and commitment to reach an agreement by the end of the summer '' .
`` The high-level meeting was always envisaged as a moment to push @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added .
`` We now need to get this resolved and deliver certainty for businesses at home and in the EU as soon as possible .
`` We are looking to agree a high quality free-trade agreement based on the agreements the EU has already reached with other countries .
`` But whatever happens we will be ready for 1 January when we will take back control of our laws , border and money . ''

Boris Johnson has set an end-of-summer deadline for a trade deal with the EU - but has been warned a "level playing field" is "essential" to an agreement.
The prime minister held talks on Monday with European Council president Charles Michel, European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen and European Parliament president David Sassoli.
The meeting came after the stalling of negotiations on a future UK-EU relationship on areas of difficulty, such as fisheries and so-called "level playing field" commitments for the UK to abide by EU rules and standards.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:43 Now the UK is out of the EU, what next?
Following Monday's talks, Mr Michel said a "broad and ambitious agreement" was in both sides' "mutual interest".
"Ready to put a tiger in the tank but not to buy a pig in a poke," he posted on Twitter.
But the European Council president added: "Level playing field is essential."
Mr Michel's turn-of-phrase was an apparent repetition of Mr Johnson's own words.
Image: Boris Johnson and Charles Michel last September - today's meeting was done remotely
After the talks, the prime minister revealed he had told the three presidents to "put a tiger in the tank" as he called for a "bit of oomph" in negotiations on a future UK-EU relationship.
Mr Johnson also appeared to set an end-of-summer deadline for agreeing a trade deal.
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And he reiterated his view - in apparent defiance of Mr Michel's own statement - that the UK "can't leave the EU and remain, somehow, controlled by EU law".
"That isn't going to work," the prime minister said.
"But there is a good deal to be done.
"I certainly don't want to see it (the trade negotiations) going on until the autumn or winter, as I think - perhaps - in Brussels they would like.
"I don't see any point in that, so let's get it done."
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The prime minister said he saw "no reason" why a trade deal couldn't be agreed next month.
"It's very clear what we need to achieve, I don't think we're actually that far apart," he said.
A joint UK-EU statement released after Monday's meeting said both sides had "welcomed the constructive discussions on the future relationship that had taken place".
It had allowed "both sides to clarify and further understand positions", the statement added.
"The parties agreed nevertheless that new momentum was required."
Mr Johnson and the EU presidents ratified plans to intensify talks on a future relationship in July and to "create the most conducive conditions for concluding and ratifying a deal before the end of 2020".
The statement also revealed they had spoken about the prime minister's insistence that he will not extend the Brexit transition period beyond 31 December, despite the EU's preference for an extension.
"The transition period will therefore end on 31 December 2020, in line with the provisions of the withdrawal agreement," the statement said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:32 'We're leaving': Brexit transition to end on 31 December
Last week, it was announced a new timetable for trade talks would see negotiations held in each of the five weeks between the week beginning 29 June and week beginning 27 July.
The UK officially left the EU in January but is currently in the Brexit transition period - meaning it maintains the status quo of membership of the bloc.
If the Brexit transition period ends without a deal being struck, the UK will likely have to trade with the EU on World Trade Organisation terms from next year.
Earlier on Monday, ahead of the meeting, Mr Johnson's spokesman said the PM would use the talks "to urge renewed energy and commitment to reach an agreement by the end of the summer".
"The high-level meeting was always envisaged as a moment to push the negotiations forward," the spokesman added.
"We now need to get this resolved and deliver certainty for businesses at home and in the EU as soon as possible.
"We are looking to agree a high quality free-trade agreement based on the agreements the EU has already reached with other countries.
"But whatever happens we will be ready for 1 January when we will take back control of our laws, border and money."


skynewspolitics--2020-06-15--'Get serious and deliver': PM's new racism review criticised

Boris Johnson is under pressure to `` get serious and deliver '' when it comes to tackling racial inequality , after critics dismissed his announcement of `` another review '' into the issue .
Following widespread protests in the UK in support of the Black Lives Matter movement , the prime minister has promised a cross-government commission to tackle racism .
This will look at `` all aspects of inequality - in employment , in health outcomes , in academic and all other walks of life '' , Mr Johnson said in a newspaper column for his former employer , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the commission will report directly to the prime minister and will have an independent chair .
It will look at inequality across the UK , not just that affecting the black , Asian and minority ethnic ( BAME ) community , and will be asked to produce recommendations for the government by the end of this year , the Telegraph added .
Full details of the review are due to be provided in the coming days .
Mr Johnson 's commission is set to be the second review into racial inequality to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10 in three years .
In October 2017 , the first data from ex-prime minister Theresa May 's race disparity audit was published .
Shadow justice secretary David Lammy , who chaired the 2017 review of the treatment of BAME individuals in the criminal justice system , told Sky News : `` How many reviews and commissions do we need ?
`` This feels like more taxpayers ' money kicking the issue into the long grass to assuage Black Lives Matter . ''
He claimed the review was `` dreamed up yesterday on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and told the PM : `` This is a tough time , and we need a prime minister that 's going to step up , get serious and deliver .
Deliver for once .
That 's what people want . ''
Following Mr Johnson 's announcement , Nazir Afzal - a former chief prosecutor for the Crown Prosecution Service - noted how the last few years have also seen reviews into the justice system , deaths in police custody , the Windrush scandal , UK workplaces , and the impact of coronavirus on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ These and others identified what needs to be done to tackle racism .
`` Boris Johnson , we do n't need another review .
Just deliver action now . ''
David Isaac , the chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission , also said it was `` time for urgent action '' .
`` We know the scale of the problems we face to tackle the entrenched racial inequality in our country .
It is not new , '' he said .
`` There have been countless reports and the data exists @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the time for urgent action .
`` We need to see a clear and comprehensive race strategy with clear targets and timescales from the government .
`` We hope this new commission will help deliver that and we stand ready to work with it . ''
Mr Johnson 's former chancellor Sajid Javid welcomed the prime minister 's new commission .
But he added : `` Shining a light on injustice is n't enough .
We need an action plan to tackle it .
`` The racial disparity audit found the data .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Fellow Conservative MP Nusrat Ghani , who served in Mr Johnson 's government until February this year , posted on Twitter : `` Another commission ?
Ok , it 's welcome .
`` But we have the data on obstacles , prejudice and inequalities .
We just need to crack on with real practical solutions which will have a positive impact . ''
Labour 's former shadow home secretary Diane Abbott , the first black female MP , said : `` Black people do n't need another commission .
`` They need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' : : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Liberal Democrat MP Christine Jardine , the party 's equalities spokesperson , said the commission 's findings `` must not become simply another report on a shelf in Whitehall '' .
`` The government must implement them without delay , '' she added .
In response to criticism of the new commission , the prime minister said : `` The whole point of having a review is to look at the area where people feel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be done .
`` We 've already acted on the Lammy report and we will continue to do more .
`` For instance , young black males that are involved in crime do n't automatically get moved to prosecution , we make sure we have more BAME groups in the prison and probation service ; and more use of body worn cameras so people have confidence in the criminal justice system . ''
Asked about the criticism of the review by Sky 's political editor Beth Rigby , Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that we can translate some of the diagnosis of the challenges that we 've got with actionable policies . ''
He added : `` So I do understand the restlessness for change .
I think what the prime minister wants to make sure is that with this commission that we can come up with actionable policies , not just a diagnosis of the challenges we face . ''
Downing Street said the new commission will also examine why working-class white boys fell behind in school .

Boris Johnson is under pressure to "get serious and deliver" when it comes to tackling racial inequality, after critics dismissed his announcement of "another review" into the issue.
Following widespread protests in the UK in support of the Black Lives Matter movement, the prime minister has promised a cross-government commission to tackle racism.
This will look at "all aspects of inequality - in employment, in health outcomes, in academic and all other walks of life", Mr Johnson said in a newspaper column for his former employer, the Daily Telegraph.
Image: Former PM Theresa May also conducted a review into racial inequality while in Number 10
The newspaper reported the commission will report directly to the prime minister and will have an independent chair.
It will look at inequality across the UK, not just that affecting the black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) community, and will be asked to produce recommendations for the government by the end of this year, the Telegraph added.
Full details of the review are due to be provided in the coming days.
Mr Johnson's commission is set to be the second review into racial inequality to be carried out on the instructions of Number 10 in three years.
In October 2017, the first data from ex-prime minister Theresa May's race disparity audit was published.
Shadow justice secretary David Lammy, who chaired the 2017 review of the treatment of BAME individuals in the criminal justice system, told Sky News: "How many reviews and commissions do we need?
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:03 Shadow justice secretary David Lammy has claimed Boris Johnson's planned review was
"This feels like more taxpayers' money kicking the issue into the long grass to assuage Black Lives Matter."
He claimed the review was "dreamed up yesterday on the back of a fag packet" and told the PM: "This is a tough time, and we need a prime minister that's going to step up, get serious and deliver. Deliver for once. That's what people want."
Following Mr Johnson's announcement, Nazir Afzal - a former chief prosecutor for the Crown Prosecution Service - noted how the last few years have also seen reviews into the justice system, deaths in police custody, the Windrush scandal, UK workplaces, and the impact of coronavirus on BAME groups.
He said: "These and others identified what needs to be done to tackle racism.
"Boris Johnson, we don't need another review. Just deliver action now."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:39 Raab quizzed over PM's new racism review
David Isaac, the chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, also said it was "time for urgent action".
"We know the scale of the problems we face to tackle the entrenched racial inequality in our country. It is not new," he said.
"There have been countless reports and the data exists exposing all the issues. Now is the time for urgent action.
"We need to see a clear and comprehensive race strategy with clear targets and timescales from the government.
"We hope this new commission will help deliver that and we stand ready to work with it."
Mr Johnson's former chancellor Sajid Javid welcomed the prime minister's new commission.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:25 'Trump has caused an awakening' - Malcolm X's daughter
But he added: "Shining a light on injustice isn't enough. We need an action plan to tackle it.
"The racial disparity audit found the data. The commission must deliver the solutions."
Fellow Conservative MP Nusrat Ghani, who served in Mr Johnson's government until February this year, posted on Twitter: "Another commission? Ok, it's welcome.
"But we have the data on obstacles, prejudice and inequalities. We just need to crack on with real practical solutions which will have a positive impact."
Labour's former shadow home secretary Diane Abbott, the first black female MP, said: "Black people don't need another commission.
"They need action on existing reports and reviews."
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Liberal Democrat MP Christine Jardine, the party's equalities spokesperson, said the commission's findings "must not become simply another report on a shelf in Whitehall".
"The government must implement them without delay," she added.
In response to criticism of the new commission, the prime minister said: "The whole point of having a review is to look at the area where people feel that there is more that needs to be done.
"We've already acted on the Lammy report and we will continue to do more.
"For instance, young black males that are involved in crime don't automatically get moved to prosecution, we make sure we have more BAME groups in the prison and probation service; and more use of body worn cameras so people have confidence in the criminal justice system."
Asked about the criticism of the review by Sky's political editor Beth Rigby, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said: "We want to make sure that we can translate some of the diagnosis of the challenges that we've got with actionable policies."
He added: "So I do understand the restlessness for change. I think what the prime minister wants to make sure is that with this commission that we can come up with actionable policies, not just a diagnosis of the challenges we face."
Downing Street said the new commission will also examine why working-class white boys fell behind in school.


skynewspolitics--2020-06-15--MP 'stable' after brain haemorrhage left her fighting for life

Fellow MPs have sent well-wishes to the SNP 's Amy Callaghan after she was revealed to have been left fighting for her life due to a brain haemorrhage .
The office of Ms Callaghan , the East Dunbartonshire MP , said the 28-year-old was now `` stable in hospital '' following life-saving surgery .
`` On Wednesday 10 June , Amy was found by her partner collapsed at home from a brain haemorrhage related to a previously manageable medical condition , '' a statement read .
`` Imminent risk to life was identified and she was admitted to hospital for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ immense skill and response of the medical team involved in her care , Amy was able to successfully pull through the operation and is now stable in hospital . ''
Ms Callaghan was described as being in `` good spirits and able to communicate well with family '' , as well as being thankful to the medical staff who `` all played a role in , undoubtedly , saving her life '' .
She is `` determined to overcome what barriers , if any , may now arise as a result of this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ illusion of the seriousness of her condition and the rehabilitation that will follow '' , the statement added .
Ms Callaghan will now undertake a `` period of required rest and recovery '' but her constituency work will continue , her office said .
One of the shocks of December 's general election saw Ms Callaghan win her East Dunbartonshire seat from then Liberal Democrat leader Jo Swinson .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Following the news of Ms Callaghan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Twitter : `` This is awful news .
`` Amy , you 're an amazing young woman .
All my thoughts are with you for your recovery .
You are strong , you can do this . ''
Former Conservative minister Douglas Ross , who represents the Scottish seat of Moray , said : `` In a few short months Amy has proven herself as a strong and passionate campaigner on behalf of her constituents and all our thoughts and best wishes are with her just now . ''
SNP leader and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was `` sending lots of love and strength '' to Ms Callaghan and her family .
Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner tweeted : `` Sending all my best wishes to Amy for a speedy recovery x '' .

Fellow MPs have sent well-wishes to the SNP's Amy Callaghan after she was revealed to have been left fighting for her life due to a brain haemorrhage.
The office of Ms Callaghan, the East Dunbartonshire MP, said the 28-year-old was now "stable in hospital" following life-saving surgery.
"On Wednesday 10 June, Amy was found by her partner collapsed at home from a brain haemorrhage related to a previously manageable medical condition," a statement read.
"Imminent risk to life was identified and she was admitted to hospital for emergency neurosurgery.
"Thanks to the immense skill and response of the medical team involved in her care, Amy was able to successfully pull through the operation and is now stable in hospital."
Image: Ms Callaghan beat the then Lib Dem leader Jo Swinson
Ms Callaghan was described as being in "good spirits and able to communicate well with family", as well as being thankful to the medical staff who "all played a role in, undoubtedly, saving her life".
She is "determined to overcome what barriers, if any, may now arise as a result of this incident" but "is under no illusion of the seriousness of her condition and the rehabilitation that will follow", the statement added.
Ms Callaghan will now undertake a "period of required rest and recovery" but her constituency work will continue, her office said.
One of the shocks of December's general election saw Ms Callaghan win her East Dunbartonshire seat from then Liberal Democrat leader Jo Swinson.
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:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Following the news of Ms Callaghan's emergency surgery, Ms Swinson posted on Twitter: "This is awful news.
"Amy, you're an amazing young woman. All my thoughts are with you for your recovery. You are strong, you can do this."
Former Conservative minister Douglas Ross, who represents the Scottish seat of Moray, said: "In a few short months Amy has proven herself as a strong and passionate campaigner on behalf of her constituents and all our thoughts and best wishes are with her just now."
SNP leader and Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said she was "sending lots of love and strength" to Ms Callaghan and her family.
Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner tweeted: "Sending all my best wishes to Amy for a speedy recovery x".


skynewspolitics--2020-06-15--Beatles' Penny Lane 'in danger of being renamed' if slavery link proven

Liverpool 's Penny Lane , made famous by The Beatles , is `` in danger of being renamed '' if links to slavery are found , the city 's regional mayor has told Sky News .
Road signs on Penny Lane were last week defaced following claims they are associated with 18th century slave merchant James Penny .
Steve Rotherham , the mayor of the Liverpool city region , admitted the road could be renamed if that connection is proven .
However , he added there is `` no evidence that is the fact '' .
`` If it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being called Penny Lane because of James Penny , then that needs to be investigated , '' Mr Rotherham told Sky News ' Kay Burley @ Breakfast show .
`` Something needs to happen and I would say that sign and that road may well be in danger of being renamed .
`` But , of course , there is no evidence that is the fact .
`` Just imagine not having a Penny Lane and the Beatles ' song not being about somewhere .
`` I do n't believe it is associated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in support of the Black Lives Matter movement , following the killing of George Floyd in America , have led to calls for statues and place names linked to British historical figures associated with slavery to be taken down .
Mr Rotherham , who described himself as a `` massive '' Beatles fan who has `` done a bit of reading on this '' , suggested that Penny Lane was instead associated with a toll that was once paid in that area - in pennies - to cross the road .
But he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ middle-aged man '' , he can `` see things through my eyes and I ca n't see through the eyes of somebody who every single day has faced prejudice , has faced racism '' .
`` It 's for other people to decide whether they think it 's appropriate that road sign is taken down , if indeed there is any link to either slavery or other incidences , '' the mayor added .
`` I 'm not pretending or I would n't presume to tell people in communities in the Liverpool city @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` It needs to be investigated and then , if it 's found as a direct link then action can be taken . ''
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker The song Penny Lane was released by The Beatles in February 1967 Mr Rotherham said : `` Of course , the song was n't written about James Penny , it was written about an area that the Beatles , when they were off elsewhere , were reminiscing about .
`` It 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come to an amicable solution on this one . ''
Liverpool 's International Slavery Museum has said evidence linking Penny Lane to James Penny is `` not conclusive '' .
The museum is `` actively carrying out research on this particular question '' , a spokeswoman added .
Until the abolishment of the British slave trade in 1807 , ships from Liverpool carried around 1.5m enslaved Africans on approximately 5,000 voyages , the vast majority going to the Caribbean .
The city 's connections with slavery continued through cotton and other trades that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the 19th century .
Race and Revolution : Is Change Going to Come ?
Sky News will broadcast a global debate show on Tuesday night at 8pm - looking at the issues raised by the Black Lives Matter protests , and examining institutional racism and how we fix it .
If you would like to be part of our virtual audience , and have a chance of putting a question to our panel , please send your name , location and question to newsdebates @ sky.uk

Liverpool's Penny Lane, made famous by The Beatles, is "in danger of being renamed" if links to slavery are found, the city's regional mayor has told Sky News.
Road signs on Penny Lane were last week defaced following claims they are associated with 18th century slave merchant James Penny.
Steve Rotherham, the mayor of the Liverpool city region, admitted the road could be renamed if that connection is proven.
Image: The road name has been linked to slave trader James Penny
However, he added there is "no evidence that is the fact".
"If it is as a direct consequence of that road being called Penny Lane because of James Penny, then that needs to be investigated," Mr Rotherham told Sky News' Kay Burley@Breakfast show.
"Something needs to happen and I would say that sign and that road may well be in danger of being renamed.
"But, of course, there is no evidence that is the fact.
"Just imagine not having a Penny Lane and the Beatles' song not being about somewhere.
"I don't believe it is associated with James Penny."
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Widespread protests in support of the Black Lives Matter movement, following the killing of George Floyd in America, have led to calls for statues and place names linked to British historical figures associated with slavery to be taken down.
Mr Rotherham, who described himself as a "massive" Beatles fan who has "done a bit of reading on this", suggested that Penny Lane was instead associated with a toll that was once paid in that area - in pennies - to cross the road.
But he added, as a "58-year-old white middle-aged man", he can "see things through my eyes and I can't see through the eyes of somebody who every single day has faced prejudice, has faced racism".
"It's for other people to decide whether they think it's appropriate that road sign is taken down, if indeed there is any link to either slavery or other incidences," the mayor added.
"I'm not pretending or I wouldn't presume to tell people in communities in the Liverpool city region what they should be thinking.
"It needs to be investigated and then, if it's found as a direct link then action can be taken."
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:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
The song Penny Lane was released by The Beatles in February 1967
Mr Rotherham said: "Of course, the song wasn't written about James Penny, it was written about an area that the Beatles, when they were off elsewhere, were reminiscing about.
"It's a lovely song and hopefully we'll come to an amicable solution on this one."
Liverpool's International Slavery Museum has said evidence linking Penny Lane to James Penny is "not conclusive".
The museum is "actively carrying out research on this particular question", a spokeswoman added.
Until the abolishment of the British slave trade in 1807, ships from Liverpool carried around 1.5m enslaved Africans on approximately 5,000 voyages, the vast majority going to the Caribbean.
The city's connections with slavery continued through cotton and other trades that were dependent on slave labour for much of the 19th century.
Race and Revolution: Is Change Going to Come?
Sky News will broadcast a global debate show on Tuesday night at 8pm - looking at the issues raised by the Black Lives Matter protests, and examining institutional racism and how we fix it.
If you would like to be part of our virtual audience, and have a chance of putting a question to our panel, please send your name, location and question to newsdebates@sky.uk