thedailyexpress--2020-02-17--House of Lords shock: Boris Johnson prepares major change for upper house

Sir Eddie Lister , the Prime Minister ’ s chief of staff , recently visited the Yorkshire city to inspect an 111-acre location for Parliament ’ s upper house .
The move is being considered by Downing Street as part of a drive to put Parliament more in touch with voters beyond London and particularly in the North of England .
A Government source said : “ Sir Eddie visited York recently to look at a possible site .
This is being taken seriously.
” Sir Eddie , along with Cabinet Office aides , is understood to have looked at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s railway station currently earmarked for 2,500 new homes .
The visit took place on January 31 .
It is controlled by a partnership including Home England , an agency he chaired before taking up his post in Downing Street .
Aides are now said to be holding detailed talks about building a new Lords chamber on the site along with offices for staff .
Sir Eddie is understood to be attracted to the site as a potential location for the Lords because planning permission for large-scale development has already been agreed .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ character ” to host one of the houses of Parliament because the city was the historic capital of the North .
The move is likely to alarm peers who did not take the idea seriously when it was first reported last month .
Mr Johnson was said to ordered advisers to study the move in an effort to show his dedication to “ refocusing attention and investment ” away from the capital .
Neil Ferris , the City of York Council director of economy and place , told a council committee meeting : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in respect of the House of Lords is that officers were n't aware of the proposal , but we understand that the government are seriously looking at it .
`` Whether or not it has any mileage is a matter for government .
`` The [ council ] leader has written to the Prime Minister effectively welcoming their proposal .
“ The fact that the Prime Minister 's aware of the site , that the quality of the site has been raised nationally and internationally , can only be good for the city @ @

Boris Johnson prepares major change for upper house
Sir Eddie Lister, the Prime Minister’s chief of staff, recently visited the Yorkshire city to inspect an 111-acre location for Parliament’s upper house. The move is being considered by Downing Street as part of a drive to put Parliament more in touch with voters beyond London and particularly in the North of England.
A Government source said: “Sir Eddie visited York recently to look at a possible site. This is being taken seriously.” Sir Eddie, along with Cabinet Office aides, is understood to have looked at a brownfield site next to York’s railway station currently earmarked for 2,500 new homes. The visit took place on January 31. It is controlled by a partnership including Home England, an agency he chaired before taking up his post in Downing Street. Aides are now said to be holding detailed talks about building a new Lords chamber on the site along with offices for staff.
Aides are said to be holding talks about building a new Lords chamber
Sir Eddie is understood to be attracted to the site as a potential location for the Lords because planning permission for large-scale development has already been agreed. Aides believe York has the “suitable character” to host one of the houses of Parliament because the city was the historic capital of the North. The move is likely to alarm peers who did not take the idea seriously when it was first reported last month. Mr Johnson was said to ordered advisers to study the move in an effort to show his dedication to “refocusing attention and investment” away from the capital.
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-16--Hard Brexit opponents STILL hopeful Boris will strike agreement with close EU alignment

The Conservatives crushed political opponents in December ’ s general election , providing Boris Johnson with a huge 80-seat majority that has led to him taking a toughter stance with the European Union in trade talks .
But one former cabinet minister has claimed many in Parliament expect Mr Johnson to “ fold at the last minute ” as the reality of a no deal Brexit approaches at the end of this year .
The MP claimed the Prime Minister may have to rely on opposition votes for a softer deal if he wants to go down in history if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remembered as the leader who crashed the economy and broke up the union , with the issues Scottish independence and Irish reunification also continuing to persist .
The former minister highlighted a key move made by the Prime Minister last October , when he abandoned his DUP allies and accepted demands from Brussels for a customs border down the Irish sea , suggesting history may repeat itself again .
He told The Independent : “ Despite everything , I think that close alignment is still the most likely outcome of this .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be had with Brussels , it will be a deal with alignment on all sorts of things – social , environmental , workplace protections .
“ That agreement is there to be had and the alternative is no deal .
There isn ’ t a deal on offer that will give the UK easy access to the single market with no alignment .
The question is which way does Boris jump ?
“ I ’ ve no doubt the prime minister will huff and puff right up to the wire about being ready @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just like last year he will be ready to fold at the last minute.
” In 2018 , the Treasury forecasted the damage to the UK economy from Theresa May ’ s softer Brexit deal would be 3.9 percent of GDP over 15 years .
But the Government department predicted a no deal Brexit could blow a huge 9.3 percent hole in the economy over the same period , compared to the outcome from remaining in the bloc .
Mrs May suffered three crushing defeats in the House of Commons as ministers continued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MORE : Boris Johnson prepares to reject EU rules in these two key areas The former minister warned history could repeat itself with backbench Eurosceptics stalling at supporting any agreement which restricts the UK ’ s ability to decide its own rules and regulations .
Hewarned : “ Yes , he ’ s got an 80-seat majority , but he only needs 40 of the ERG ( European Research Group ) to decide that he is selling out British sovereignty and suddenly he ’ s relying on opposition votes .
“ There were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against Theresa May ’ s deal , and the election result and Brexit day itself have emboldened them .
They feel like they ’ ve got Brexit under their belt and now they want more .
“ Added to them are the new Tories from the north , who are a lot more pro-Brexit than earlier generations of Conservative MPs .
DO N'T MISS John Curtice exposes reason UK was ALWAYS going to leave the EU [ COMMENT ] Wetherspoons boss urges Boris Johnson to talk away from EU trade talks [ INTERVIEW @ @ @ @ @ @ @ destroys SNP fisheries claim [ VIDEO ] “ They ’ re going back to their seats and going to the working men ’ s clubs where people are solidly Brexit and just want to see an end to immigration and aren ’ t too fussed about the economics of it .
“ And they have Nigel Farage and the Brexit Party breathing down their necks.
” The former minister also added : “ The question really is whether Boris prefers to wreck the economy by going along with his backbenchers and going for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as he ’ s now calling it – with all the disruption to trade and price hikes and business closures and job losses that would mean , not to mention going down in history as the Tory PM who broke up the union .
“ Or whether he prefers to be the Tory PM who split the Conservatives and got a deal with Brussels through on the back of opposition votes .

Brexit: Johnson 'refuses to accept level playing field' says expert
The Conservatives crushed political opponents in December’s general election, providing Boris Johnson with a huge 80-seat majority that has led to him taking a toughter stance with the European Union in trade talks. But one former cabinet minister has claimed many in Parliament expect Mr Johnson to “fold at the last minute” as the reality of a no deal Brexit approaches at the end of this year. The MP claimed the Prime Minister may have to rely on opposition votes for a softer deal if he wants to go down in history if he doesn’t want to be remembered as the leader who crashed the economy and broke up the union, with the issues Scottish independence and Irish reunification also continuing to persist.
The former minister highlighted a key move made by the Prime Minister last October, when he abandoned his DUP allies and accepted demands from Brussels for a customs border down the Irish sea, suggesting history may repeat itself again. He told The Independent: “Despite everything, I think that close alignment is still the most likely outcome of this. “If there’s a deal to be had with Brussels, it will be a deal with alignment on all sorts of things – social, environmental, workplace protections. “That agreement is there to be had and the alternative is no deal. There isn’t a deal on offer that will give the UK easy access to the single market with no alignment. The question is which way does Boris jump?
Brexit news: No deal opponents are hopeful the PM will sign a trade deal with close EU alignment
Brexit news: The Prime Minister has taken a hardline approach to EU talks
“I’ve no doubt the prime minister will huff and puff right up to the wire about being ready to go for no deal, but just like last year he will be ready to fold at the last minute.” In 2018, the Treasury forecasted the damage to the UK economy from Theresa May’s softer Brexit deal would be 3.9 percent of GDP over 15 years. But the Government department predicted a no deal Brexit could blow a huge 9.3 percent hole in the economy over the same period, compared to the outcome from remaining in the bloc. Mrs May suffered three crushing defeats in the House of Commons as ministers continued to vote her deal down. READ MORE: Boris Johnson prepares to reject EU rules in these two key areas
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Brexit news: Boris Johnson wants a trade deal signed with the EU before the end of the transition period in December
The former minister warned history could repeat itself with backbench Eurosceptics stalling at supporting any agreement which restricts the UK’s ability to decide its own rules and regulations. Hewarned: “Yes, he’s got an 80-seat majority, but he only needs 40 of the ERG (European Research Group) to decide that he is selling out British sovereignty and suddenly he’s relying on opposition votes. “There were plenty more than 40 ready to vote against Theresa May’s deal, and the election result and Brexit day itself have emboldened them. They feel like they’ve got Brexit under their belt and now they want more. “Added to them are the new Tories from the north, who are a lot more pro-Brexit than earlier generations of Conservative MPs. DON'T MISS
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Wetherspoons boss urges Boris Johnson to talk away from EU trade talks [INTERVIEW]
Brexiteer outburst on live BBC panel destroys SNP fisheries claim [VIDEO]
Brexit news: Michel Barnier will feature heavily in trade deal talks
Brexit news: Theresa May failed the get her softer Brexit deal voted through Parliament
“They’re going back to their seats and going to the working men’s clubs where people are solidly Brexit and just want to see an end to immigration and aren’t too fussed about the economics of it. “And they have Nigel Farage and the Brexit Party breathing down their necks.” The former minister also added: “The question really is whether Boris prefers to wreck the economy by going along with his backbenchers and going for no deal – or the Australia option as he’s now calling it – with all the disruption to trade and price hikes and business closures and job losses that would mean, not to mention going down in history as the Tory PM who broke up the union. “Or whether he prefers to be the Tory PM who split the Conservatives and got a deal with Brussels through on the back of opposition votes.
Brexit news: A crucial year lies ahead in trade talks
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-02-16--Boris' budget set for second DELAY as Grant Shapps warns new Chancellor needs 'more time'

Mr Sunak was drafted in to replace his predecessor after it emerged Mr Javid had turned down remaining in the position .
Mr Javid had been due to announce the Budget in the next few weeks but with the position now changing hands , Mr Sunak could delay the Budget to give himself `` more time '' to adjust to the new job .
The Budget was due to be announced on March 11 but Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said on Sunday that may well change .
Speaking on Sky News ' Sophie Ridge on Sunday , he admitted the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' before making the announcement .
He said : `` I know that the Budget plans are well advanced but I also know that Rishi Sunak , the new Chancellor may want time .
`` I have n't heard whether the date of March is confirmed as yet .
`` He is probably looking at it , I should think this week . ''
Speaking on the Andrew Marr show earlier on Sunday , Mr Shapps added : `` The guy 's only been in place for a few days .
Let 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the date . ''
Mr Sunak 's predecessor had been scheduled to announce the budget last November but had to be delayed to make way for the general election .
Mr Javid and the Prime Minister have clashed in the past following the sacking of a Treasury advisor .
JUST IN : 'Suspicion and paranoia ' behind Johnson 's sudden move against Javid Last year , Mr Javid reportedly hit out at the Prime Minister over the dismissal of Sonia Khan .
Ms Khan was sacked by Number 10 over her contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Last week , Mr Johnson then pushed the former Chancellor to sack his team of advisors in order to remain in the position .
In response , Mr Javid insisted “ no self-respecting minister ” could accept and therefore resigned .
DO N'T MISS BBC 's Laura Kuenssberg reveals she was warned about Javid quitting [ Latest ] Pound to euro exchange : GBP boosted to highest position since December [ Latest ] Boris Johnson ’ s power grab : PM tightens grip as Javid forced out [ Latest ] In keeping with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is expected to be put forward .
Mr Shapps insisted the party would honour its pledges but according to the Sunday Telegraph , Mr Johnson has cooled on the idea of a mansion tax .
Amid fears of a Tory revolt , Mr Johnson will not include the tax on high-value properties .
It is understood the policy will now be shelved as the party looks to other ways to finance the bumper Budget .
Mr Shapps , however , predicted the coming Budget would include a “ big uplift ” in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s infrastructure , including the transport network .
He said : “ I can tell you that we are absolutely kind of determined to deliver a big uplift in the infrastructure in this country The Transport Secretary insisted that the Government would stick to the Tory manifesto commitment to reduce Treasury debt over the course of the current parliamentary term despite increasing spending .

Cabinet reshuffle: Javid's ex-aide suggests 'reason for clear out'
Mr Sunak was drafted in to replace his predecessor after it emerged Mr Javid had turned down remaining in the position. Mr Javid had been due to announce the Budget in the next few weeks but with the position now changing hands, Mr Sunak could delay the Budget to give himself "more time" to adjust to the new job.
The Budget was due to be announced on March 11 but Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said on Sunday that may well change. Speaking on Sky News' Sophie Ridge on Sunday, he admitted the new Chancellor may want "more time" before making the announcement. He said: "I know that the Budget plans are well advanced but I also know that Rishi Sunak, the new Chancellor may want time. "I haven't heard whether the date of March is confirmed as yet.
Uk news: The Budget could be delayed once again
UK news: The Budget is due in 28 days
"He is probably looking at it, I should think this week." Speaking on the Andrew Marr show earlier on Sunday, Mr Shapps added: "The guy's only been in place for a few days. Let's give him a few days to decide on the date." Mr Sunak's predecessor had been scheduled to announce the budget last November but had to be delayed to make way for the general election. Mr Javid and the Prime Minister have clashed in the past following the sacking of a Treasury advisor. JUST IN: 'Suspicion and paranoia' behind Johnson's sudden move against Javid
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UK news: Mr Shapps said a delay could be possible
Uk news: Mr Sunak was the surprise addition to the Cabinet
UK news: Mr Javid was asked to sack his advisors
In keeping with his manifesto pledges, an ambitious Budget is expected to be put forward. Mr Shapps insisted the party would honour its pledges but according to the Sunday Telegraph, Mr Johnson has cooled on the idea of a mansion tax. Amid fears of a Tory revolt, Mr Johnson will not include the tax on high-value properties. It is understood the policy will now be shelved as the party looks to other ways to finance the bumper Budget.
Brexit: Boris selling fishing industry is 'anathema' says Forsyth
Mr Shapps, however, predicted the coming Budget would include a “big uplift” in the amount of cash spent on the country’s infrastructure, including the transport network. He said: “I can tell you that we are absolutely kind of determined to deliver a big uplift in the infrastructure in this country The Transport Secretary insisted that the Government would stick to the Tory manifesto commitment to reduce Treasury debt over the course of the current parliamentary term despite increasing spending.
Uk news: Mr Javid has clashed with the Prime Minister in the past
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-02-16--Leo Varadkar’s contradiction has ‘caught up with him’ - by opposing Sinn Fein

Writing in The Telegraph Conservative MEP Daniel Hanna wrote : “ Until last week , the mainstream parties in Dublin tried to have it both ways , refusing to deal with Sinn Féin south of the border while insisting on its inclusion in government north of the border .
Now that contradiction has caught up with them.
” Leo Varadkar , the Fine Gael leader , argued during the election campaign that “ Sinn Féin is not a normal party ” , because its elected representatives took instructions from “ outside ” .
Micheál Martin , his Fianna Fáil counterpart @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the Mary Lou McDonald ’ s party on the grounds that “ shadowy figures dictate what happens.
” Mr Hanna outlined the contradiction that exists when he claimed : “ Yet at the same time , both men applauded Sinn Féin ’ s presence in the Belfast administration .
Mr Varadkar and Micheál Martin , the leader of Ireland ’ s other establishment party Fianna Fail , have exhibited a duplicity of policy by facilitating Sinn Fein ’ s power sharing in Northern Ireland , but on the other hand , repeatedly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ party in the Irish Republic .
Mr Varadkar claimed Sinn Féin had no allegiance to the democratic institutions of the State , implying they were not fit for government , yet he has repeatedly encouraged parties in Northern Ireland to work with them .
Speaking to RTE Mr Varadkar said : “ Sinn Féin is a party with plenty of ideas and policies Mr Varadkar and Micheál Martin , the leader of Ireland ’ s other establishment party Fianna Fail , have exhibited a duplicity of policy by facilitating Sinn Fein ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the other hand , repeatedly ruling out going into government with the party in the Irish Republic .
Mr Varadkar claimed Sinn Féin had no allegiance to the democratic institutions of the State , implying they were not fit for government , yet he has repeatedly encouraged parties in Northern Ireland to work with them .
Speaking to RTE Mr Varadkar said : “ Sinn Féin is a party with plenty of ideas and policies .
“ But the bigger problem I have is that the values of Sinn Féin are toxic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our courts , they don ’ t respect our gardaí , they don ’ t respect any of the four parliaments they are elected to , including the ones they turn up for , they don ’ t respect our democracy.
” After the come an angry electorate has just thrown out the Taoiseach , Leo Varadkar , and given the largest single share of a very fragmented popular vote to a party that was once a pariah , Sinn Féin .
The Irish economy is overflowing again , this time on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : How Irish leader ’ s ‘ Brexit-bashing ’ backfired [ COMMENT ] Varadkar on brink : Sinn Fein plans left-wing alliance and border poll [ LATEST ] Leo Varadkar facing humiliating coalition as Sinn Fein forced out [ INSIGHT ] In 2018 alone , foreign direct investment into Ireland rose by 52 percent .
It fell by 13 percent in the UK and these two figures are probably not unrelated either to each other or to Brexit .
One can question how much of this is sustainable and about how much of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around to take advantage of Ireland ’ s 12.5 % corporation tax rate .
But right now a lot of it is real and visible and not just in Dublin .

Irish election: Sinn Fein coalition ‘not an option’ says Varadkar
Writing in The Telegraph Conservative MEP Daniel Hanna wrote: “Until last week, the mainstream parties in Dublin tried to have it both ways, refusing to deal with Sinn Féin south of the border while insisting on its inclusion in government north of the border. Now that contradiction has caught up with them.” Leo Varadkar, the Fine Gael leader, argued during the election campaign that “Sinn Féin is not a normal party”, because its elected representatives took instructions from “outside”.
Micheál Martin, his Fianna Fáil counterpart, agreed, ruling out a coalition with the Mary Lou McDonald’s party on the grounds that “shadowy figures dictate what happens.” Mr Hanna outlined the contradiction that exists when he claimed: “Yet at the same time, both men applauded Sinn Féin’s presence in the Belfast administration. Mr Varadkar and Micheál Martin, the leader of Ireland’s other establishment party Fianna Fail, have exhibited a duplicity of policy by facilitating Sinn Fein’s power sharing in Northern Ireland, but on the other hand, repeatedly ruling out going into government with the party in the Irish Republic. Mr Varadkar claimed Sinn Féin had no allegiance to the democratic institutions of the State, implying they were not fit for government, yet he has repeatedly encouraged parties in Northern Ireland to work with them.
Leo Varadkar
Speaking to RTE Mr Varadkar said: “Sinn Féin is a party with plenty of ideas and policies Mr Varadkar and Micheál Martin, the leader of Ireland’s other establishment party Fianna Fail, have exhibited a duplicity of policy by facilitating Sinn Fein’s power sharing in Northern Ireland, but on the other hand, repeatedly ruling out going into government with the party in the Irish Republic. Mr Varadkar claimed Sinn Féin had no allegiance to the democratic institutions of the State, implying they were not fit for government, yet he has repeatedly encouraged parties in Northern Ireland to work with them. Speaking to RTE Mr Varadkar said: “Sinn Féin is a party with plenty of ideas and policies. “Higher taxes, more borrowing, more debt. READ MORE: Varadkar attacks Sinn Fein as Irish election turns nasty
Leo Varadkar and Boris Johnson
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Leo Varadkar
“But the bigger problem I have is that the values of Sinn Féin are toxic. “They don’t respect our courts, they don’t respect our gardaí, they don’t respect any of the four parliaments they are elected to, including the ones they turn up for, they don’t respect our democracy.” After the come an angry electorate has just thrown out the Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, and given the largest single share of a very fragmented popular vote to a party that was once a pariah, Sinn Féin. The Irish economy is overflowing again, this time on a wave of outside investment. DON'T MISS Varadkar shamed: How Irish leader’s ‘Brexit-bashing’ backfired [COMMENT]
Varadkar on brink: Sinn Fein plans left-wing alliance and border poll [LATEST]
Leo Varadkar facing humiliating coalition as Sinn Fein forced out [INSIGHT]
Leo Varadkar and Ursula von der Leyen
In 2018 alone, foreign direct investment into Ireland rose by 52 percent. It fell by 13 percent in the UK and these two figures are probably not unrelated either to each other or to Brexit. One can question how much of this is sustainable and about how much of it is just vast multinationals moving money around to take advantage of Ireland’s 12.5% corporation tax rate. But right now a lot of it is real and visible and not just in Dublin.
Leo Varadkar and Boris Johnson
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-02-16--Sturgeon MOCKS Johnson over Scottish independence surge - ‘He knows he can’t block Scots!'

His £5 million advertising campaign above the border is proof he is ready for a tough fight , according to Scottish National Party ( SNP ) leader Ms Sturgeon .
In an interview with The Sunday Times , the First Minister slapped down the notion that fighting for Scottish independence was a waste of her time , after the Prime Minister formally refused her request to hold a public vote on independence this year .
She claimed Mr Johnson was in fact “ one of the biggest recruiting sergeants ” for the independence cause .
Speaking about his planned advertising @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scots , she said : “ He wouldn ’ t be doing that if he didn ’ t know that , should support for independence keep rising , he can ’ t block the right of people in Scotland to choose .
“ Somebody who thinks they can forever block the choice being made wouldn ’ t be feeling the need to spend lots of money trying to persuade people of the choice they should make .
“ So , for the independence movement , the challenge is clear : keep support rising.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Mr Johnson had planned to “ love-bomb ” voters above the border .
The Times reported he would roll out an extensive advertising campaign worth millions of pounds to win over Scots who are sceptical of their place in the union following Brexit .
He was said to have adverts on television , radio , cinema and digital platforms in mind to reach voters .
His campaign proves he was scared of the prospect of Scots opting for independence , claimed Ms Sturgeon .
The SNP leader branded the Prime Minister a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actions would fuel extra support for the cause closest to her heart .
In January he refused to grant Holyrood legal powers to hold a second referendum .
“ And while I can be impatient , I know that how he is behaving will ultimately drive people towards the independence cause .
DO N'T MISS Nicola Sturgeon admits Scottish independence panic [ INSIGHT ] Sturgeon blow : How currency problems could destroy independence dream [ ANALYSIS ] Sturgeon ’ s Scottish independence hope in TATTERS : EU demands laid bare [ INSIGHT ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ biggest recruiting sergeants for independence there is at the moment.
” Despite the setback , she believes “ a referendum can absolutely happen this year ” .
Last week her party ’ s main rivals , the Scottish Tories , named Jackson Carlaw as their new leader .
He has vowed to “ take down ” Ms Sturgeon in next year ’ s Scottish parliamentary elections .
The Scottish Tories have in recent months accused the First Minister of using the independence debate to deflect from growing problems at home Mr Carlaw said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after 13 years in office .

Indyref2: Sturgeon's agenda a 'threat to jobs' says Greg Smith
His £5 million advertising campaign above the border is proof he is ready for a tough fight, according to Scottish National Party (SNP) leader Ms Sturgeon. In an interview with The Sunday Times, the First Minister slapped down the notion that fighting for Scottish independence was a waste of her time, after the Prime Minister formally refused her request to hold a public vote on independence this year. She claimed Mr Johnson was in fact “one of the biggest recruiting sergeants” for the independence cause.
Speaking about his planned advertising campaign to push a pro-union message at Scots, she said: “He wouldn’t be doing that if he didn’t know that, should support for independence keep rising, he can’t block the right of people in Scotland to choose. “Somebody who thinks they can forever block the choice being made wouldn’t be feeling the need to spend lots of money trying to persuade people of the choice they should make. “So, for the independence movement, the challenge is clear: keep support rising.” Earlier this month, it emerged that Mr Johnson had planned to “love-bomb” voters above the border.
Nicola Sturgeon branded Boris Johnson a 'democracy denier'
Boris Johnson poses for a photo with Nicola Sturgeon
The Times reported he would roll out an extensive advertising campaign worth millions of pounds to win over Scots who are sceptical of their place in the union following Brexit. He was said to have adverts on television, radio, cinema and digital platforms in mind to reach voters. His campaign proves he was scared of the prospect of Scots opting for independence, claimed Ms Sturgeon. READ MORE: Sturgeon fury: SNP’s real motive for ‘divisive’ independence revealed
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The Prime Minister waves as he leaves No10
The SNP leader branded the Prime Minister a “democracy denier” and said his actions would fuel extra support for the cause closest to her heart. In January he refused to grant Holyrood legal powers to hold a second referendum. “He is a democracy denier,” said Ms Sturgeon. “And while I can be impatient, I know that how he is behaving will ultimately drive people towards the independence cause. DON'T MISS
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Sturgeon blow: How currency problems could destroy independence dream [ANALYSIS]
Sturgeon’s Scottish independence hope in TATTERS: EU demands laid bare [INSIGHT]
Boris Johnson shakes hands with Nicola Sturgeon
Boris Johnson plans to roll out a pro-union campaign in Scotland
“Boris Johnson is one of the biggest recruiting sergeants for independence there is at the moment.” Despite the setback, she believes “a referendum can absolutely happen this year”. Last week her party’s main rivals, the Scottish Tories, named Jackson Carlaw as their new leader.
Indyref2: SNP are a ‘one trick pony’ says Jackson Carlaw
He has vowed to “take down” Ms Sturgeon in next year’s Scottish parliamentary elections. The Scottish Tories have in recent months accused the First Minister of using the independence debate to deflect from growing problems at home Mr Carlaw said the nationalists are "failing" Scotland after 13 years in office.
Nicola Sturgeon said she believes a second indyref is possible in 2020
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-16--Boris's vision for Scotland and Northern Ireland bridge was really designed 130 YEARS AGO

The Prime Minister has plans to build a bridge between Portpatrick in Dumfries and Galloway and Larne in County Antrim .
The bridge would be made of steel and concrete and would consist of two levels .
There would be one for cars and another one for a railway .
There were also plans to build an undersea tunnel , as a way of dealing with the offshore dumpsite Beaufort ’ s Dyke .
Mr Johnson first expressed an interest in building the bridge as early as when he became Tory leader last July .
He told the Sunday Times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need to do is build a bridge between our islands .
But it appears Mr Johnson ’ s idea for the tunnel are very similar to plans drawn up by Victorian naval architect James Maxton 130 years ago , according to the Mail on Sunday .
His plans were first delivered during a lecture to Belfast ’ s Natural History and Philosophical Society in 1890 .
They set out four options for routes across the Irish Sea to the mainland .
His bridge would have run for nearly 22 miles from Donaghadee in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He said his tunnel would also have take less than six years to build and cost £5.25 million .
READ MORE : EU 'powerless ' to stop Boris as UK mocks Macron 's fisheries threat This was compared to 1890 prices , against the current estimates of £20 billion .
Mr Maxton said at the time : “ Subaqueous tunnelling is proverbially one of the most uncertain undertakings in civil engineering .
“ Unforeseen mishaps make even the most sanguine fear the results.
” He added that “ the engineering difficulties are stupendous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ slams ‘ out of control ’ Boris Johnson policy as ‘ grotesque ' [ VIDEO ] Why Boris could secretly support united Ireland [ INSIGHT ] Boris Johnson prepares to reject EU rules in these two key areas [ REVEALED ] But also said that “ neither political nor military objections to the scheme are tenable ” .
He was even praised by Charles Dickens ’ son Junior , who was president of Belfast ’ s Philosophical Society .
He wrote : “ It would be totally impossible to estimate the advantage that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ communication could be established between Ireland and Scotland and England.
” Mr Maxton was one of Britain ’ s most famous naval architects .
He designed many of the vessels built in Belfast ’ s shipyards of the era .
And his bridge and tunnel scheme was also mentioned during parliamentary debates on the possibility of linking Scotland and Ulster in 1956 .
The Mail on Sunday also reported last week that Mr Johnson will soon receive results of a feasibility study into his 21st Century bridge and tunnel project .
Mr Johnson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” a vanity project '' by Scotland 's Transport Secretary , while ministers on both sides of the Irish Sea have said it would be a waste of money .

Boris Johnson is ‘executing his plot’ says Jeremy Vine caller
The Prime Minister has plans to build a bridge between Portpatrick in Dumfries and Galloway and Larne in County Antrim. The bridge would be made of steel and concrete and would consist of two levels. There would be one for cars and another one for a railway. There were also plans to build an undersea tunnel, as a way of dealing with the offshore dumpsite Beaufort’s Dyke.
Mr Johnson first expressed an interest in building the bridge as early as when he became Tory leader last July. He told the Sunday Times at the time: “What we need to do is build a bridge between our islands. "Why don't we?" But it appears Mr Johnson’s idea for the tunnel are very similar to plans drawn up by Victorian naval architect James Maxton 130 years ago, according to the Mail on Sunday.
Boris Johnson is planning to build a bridge connecting Scotland and Northern Ireland
His plans were first delivered during a lecture to Belfast’s Natural History and Philosophical Society in 1890. They set out four options for routes across the Irish Sea to the mainland. His bridge would have run for nearly 22 miles from Donaghadee in County Down to Portpatrick in Scotland. He said his tunnel would also have take less than six years to build and cost £5.25 million. READ MORE: EU 'powerless' to stop Boris as UK mocks Macron's fisheries threat
The Prime Minister's undersea tunnel is similar to a design from 130 years ago
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Mr Johnson first expressed an interest in the bridge when he became Tory leader
But also said that “neither political nor military objections to the scheme are tenable”. He was even praised by Charles Dickens’ son Junior, who was president of Belfast’s Philosophical Society. He wrote: “It would be totally impossible to estimate the advantage that would accrue to this country if railway communication could be established between Ireland and Scotland and England.” Mr Maxton was one of Britain’s most famous naval architects.
The aim of the bridge is to connect Portpatrick and Larne
He designed many of the vessels built in Belfast’s shipyards of the era. And his bridge and tunnel scheme was also mentioned during parliamentary debates on the possibility of linking Scotland and Ulster in 1956. The Mail on Sunday also reported last week that Mr Johnson will soon receive results of a feasibility study into his 21st Century bridge and tunnel project. Mr Johnson’s bridge plans have been branded ”a vanity project" by Scotland's Transport Secretary, while ministers on both sides of the Irish Sea have said it would be a waste of money.
Jackson Carlaw has backed Boris Johnson's idea for a bridge
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-16--Varadkar condemned: Irish leader’s last-ditch bid to cling to power attacked

This cynical attempt to block Sinn Féin ’ s ascendancy has been slammed by the co-leader of Ireland ’ s Social Democrats Róisín Shortall , who has said a Fianna Fáil/Fine Gael coalition government does not sound like change .
She was responding to a question about whether the Social Democrats would be interested in going into Government with the two bigger parties .
Ms Shortall said people voted for change and solutions to the big problems , including housing and health .
Elsewhere , Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald has accused Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin of arrogance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at what she viewed as the `` old boys ' club of Fianna Fail and Fine Gael ” , the two big beast parties who have dominated Irish politics in recent decades .
She said it was “ disgraceful ” the two parties “ believe they can set aside the democratic mandate of Sinn Fein ” .
Her party surged from the fringes of the country ’ s political scene to become a mainstream party after voters flocked to support the nationalists who want to reunite the island of Ireland .
Ministers in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would demand a rotating taoiseach role as part of a coalition with Mr Martin ’ s party .
She addressed a party meeting in west Belfast following last week 's general election result in which Sinn Féin topped the first preference poll and won 37 seats .
She said : `` And it now seems that Micheál Martin 's plan is to deny the people what they voted for .
“ That is an arrogant and untenable position , given the strength of Sinn Fein 's mandate . ''
READ MORE : Varadkar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last She said her rivals had no plan for Irish unity .
`` The political establishment of Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael are circling the wagons in defence of a status quo that will not deliver the change citizens voted for last weekend .
`` Nor , however hard they try , they can not block the growing demand around unity . ''
“ The political establishment of Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael are circling the wagons in defence of a status quo that will not deliver the change citizens voted for last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Leo !
Varadkar faces humiliating exit as he 's SNUBBED [ INSIGHT ] Varadkar on brink : Sinn Fein plans left-wing alliance and border poll [ ANALYSIS ] Varadkar embarrassment : Wobbling Taoiseach 's desperate tweet [ INSIGHT ] Ms McDonald said her party 's job was to deliver , whether by sitting at the cabinet table in Dublin or the power-sharing Executive at Stormont .
She added : `` The people are ready for change .
`` We will ensure that their voices are heard .
That their democratic decision is respected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yesterday .
There is no progress to be found there .
Now is the moment for change . ''

Irish election: Sinn Fein coalition ‘not an option’ says Varadkar
This cynical attempt to block Sinn Féin’s ascendancy has been slammed by the co-leader of Ireland’s Social Democrats Róisín Shortall, who has said a Fianna Fáil/Fine Gael coalition government does not sound like change. She was responding to a question about whether the Social Democrats would be interested in going into Government with the two bigger parties. Ms Shortall said people voted for change and solutions to the big problems, including housing and health.
Elsewhere, Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald has accused Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin of arrogance. The Sinn Féin leader lashed out at what she viewed as the "old boys' club of Fianna Fail and Fine Gael”, the two big beast parties who have dominated Irish politics in recent decades. She said it was “disgraceful” the two parties “believe they can set aside the democratic mandate of Sinn Fein”. Her party surged from the fringes of the country’s political scene to become a mainstream party after voters flocked to support the nationalists who want to reunite the island of Ireland.
Leo Varadkar is desperate to hold on to power
Ministers in Mr Varadkar’s party said he would demand a rotating taoiseach role as part of a coalition with Mr Martin’s party. She addressed a party meeting in west Belfast following last week's general election result in which Sinn Féin topped the first preference poll and won 37 seats. She said: "And it now seems that Micheál Martin's plan is to deny the people what they voted for. “That is an arrogant and untenable position, given the strength of Sinn Fein's mandate." READ MORE: Varadkar humiliation: Irish PM admits defeat at last
Micheál Martin of Fianna Fáil
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Leo Varadkar and Ursula von der Leyen
She said her rivals had no plan for Irish unity. "The political establishment of Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael are circling the wagons in defence of a status quo that will not deliver the change citizens voted for last weekend. "Nor, however hard they try, they cannot block the growing demand around unity." “The political establishment of Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael are circling the wagons in defence of a status quo that will not deliver the change citizens voted for last weekend” - @MaryLouMcDonald DON'T MISS Goodbye, Leo! Varadkar faces humiliating exit as he's SNUBBED [INSIGHT]
Varadkar on brink: Sinn Fein plans left-wing alliance and border poll [ANALYSIS]
Varadkar embarrassment: Wobbling Taoiseach's desperate tweet [INSIGHT]
Micheál Martin of Fianna Fáil
Ms McDonald said her party's job was to deliver, whether by sitting at the cabinet table in Dublin or the power-sharing Executive at Stormont. She added: "The people are ready for change. "We will ensure that their voices are heard. That their democratic decision is respected. "The old guard can have yesterday. There is no progress to be found there. Now is the moment for change."
Micheál Martin of Fianna Fáil
Before the election, Mr Martin ruled out forming a coalition with Sinn Féin, citing its historic links to the IRA as a deterrent. In the wake of Saturday's vote, he did not reject the two parties working together, but said "significant incompatibilities" existed. Fine Gael TD Helen McEntee has reiterated that the onus is on Sinn Féin and Fianna Fáil to try to form a government.
Gerry Adams with Mary Lou McDonald
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-16--Brexit boost: India tells UK don't underestimate yourself as trade talks near

And now first and second-generation Indians are at the heart of decision making in the British Government .
It comes as New Delhi gave clear indications that “ nothing stands in the way ” of forging a good post-Brexit trade deal with India .
Boris Johnson ’ s Cabinet now contains Agra-born Alok Sharma as Secretary of State for Business , Energy and Industrial Strategy , Priti Patel as Home Secretary and Rishi Sunak as Chancellor .
This has not gone unnoticed in Delhi .
In addition , Sunak ’ s wife Akshata is the daughter of Indian billionaire and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Narayana Murthy .
The second most populous country in the world is enjoying a huge economic boom .
It aims to be the third biggest global economy by the end of the decade , having recently overtaken the UK in fifth place .
India ’ s GDP has grown by $ 1trillion to almost $ 3trillion in just the past five years , and its self confidence on the world stage will see it playing a larger role in global affairs , said Subrahmanyam Jaishankar .
The Minister for External Affairs said that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ India would have to settle for trade deals which did not suit its agenda .
But historical ties between Britain and India run deep , leading to the UK surpassing France and Germany combined to become the largest Western investor in India , with almost £21billion ploughed into the subcontinent over the past two decades .
Infrastructure Britain developed in the sub-continent is not forgotten , with the rail system built in colonial times still massively utilised today .
Speaking from the South Block , Delhi ’ s colonnaded Whitehall-styled government building , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Asia certainly see the UK as a country with a lot of influence in different parts of the world .
My own sense is that sometimes the British themselves underestimate that influence .
“ Relatively speaking we are among the countries with a higher stake in what happens after Brexit .
We are waiting to see how it unfolds.
” Asked about freedom of movement requirements , he added : “ The world requires a flow of talent today .
We also understand that mobility can have cultural and socio-political consequences .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to balance this .
Whatever the outcome of Brexit , however , Britain will have to take the need for global talent into account .
And if you look at Indians , they are extraordinarily law-abiding , they generally contribute to society , and are already at the heart of the flow of global talent in the world .
And do remember that we speak English.
” Already , the UK has issued more than half its Tier 1 visas to Indian nationals – more than all other countries combined .
Last night @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added : “ We know that Britain , having just left the EU , would never accept an EU-style FOI arrangement with India .
That ’ s not what we want .
But consider that the call for Indian talent is coming from UK business and the NHS .
Privately the feeling here is that Indian nationals will be adequately represented through a points-based entry system.
” Cause for optimism was echoed by Deepak Bagla , managing director and CEO of Invest India , the country ’ s “ National Investment Promotion and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ For India , the UK is our closest relationship and closest partnership .
Britain gave us and left behind some of the best presents we have today .
Look at our railways – we haven ’ t added much in the way of kilometres .
Last year Indians made eight billion journeys on our railway network .
“ The third city of the world to get electricity after New York and London was Calcutta , in 1897 .
“ A small company from England ( Kilburn & Co ) came to India @ @ @ @ @ @ @ secured electricity for a grid four kilometres square .
“ We have a lot to thank you for.
” Invest India is today processing 388 fresh applications from British businesses in the fields of IT , renewable energy , chemicals , food processing and tourism , said Mr Bagla .
“ Already there ’ s a lot happening .
The kind of work we are doing together on innovation and technology – so not just investment – is huge , ” he said .
“ We ’ re trying to get our startups @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too .
“ Investment has been streamlined .
Our India access programme is being run in UK to help British SMEs increase balance sheets and access to market opportunities , and we ’ re working closely on an Indian fast-track mechanism with the UK ’ s Department of International Trade .
“ A foreign-owned telecoms company enters India and can have 36 million customers in 30 months .
It ’ s almost unreal.
” India ’ s economic boom has seen major changes across its population of 1.3 billion people .
It boasts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ access – 661 million ( the largest to speak English ) .
And two in three who join the internet every second are from the country ’ s villages .

Brexit: Rishi Sunak defends government’s free ports trade policy
And now first and second-generation Indians are at the heart of decision making in the British Government. It comes as New Delhi gave clear indications that “nothing stands in the way” of forging a good post-Brexit trade deal with India.
Boris Johnson’s Cabinet now contains Agra-born Alok Sharma as Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, Priti Patel as Home Secretary and Rishi Sunak as Chancellor. This has not gone unnoticed in Delhi. In addition, Sunak’s wife Akshata is the daughter of Indian billionaire and co-founder of IT services company Infosys, Narayana Murthy. The second most populous country in the world is enjoying a huge economic boom. It aims to be the third biggest global economy by the end of the decade, having recently overtaken the UK in fifth place. India’s GDP has grown by $1trillion to almost $3trillion in just the past five years, and its self confidence on the world stage will see it playing a larger role in global affairs, said Subrahmanyam Jaishankar.
Home Secretary Priti Patel
The Minister for External Affairs said that it was no longer the case that India would have to settle for trade deals which did not suit its agenda. But historical ties between Britain and India run deep, leading to the UK surpassing France and Germany combined to become the largest Western investor in India, with almost £21billion ploughed into the subcontinent over the past two decades. Infrastructure Britain developed in the sub-continent is not forgotten, with the rail system built in colonial times still massively utilised today. Speaking from the South Block, Delhi’s colonnaded Whitehall-styled government building, Mr Jaishankar said: “We in Asia certainly see the UK as a country with a lot of influence in different parts of the world. My own sense is that sometimes the British themselves underestimate that influence. “Relatively speaking we are among the countries with a higher stake in what happens after Brexit. We are waiting to see how it unfolds.”
Chancellor Rishi Sunak (R)
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Asked about freedom of movement requirements, he added: “The world requires a flow of talent today. We also understand that mobility can have cultural and socio-political consequences. “The judgment for Britain will be how to balance this. Whatever the outcome of Brexit, however, Britain will have to take the need for global talent into account. And if you look at Indians, they are extraordinarily law-abiding, they generally contribute to society, and are already at the heart of the flow of global talent in the world. And do remember that we speak English.” Already, the UK has issued more than half its Tier 1 visas to Indian nationals – more than all other countries combined. Last night other sources connected to the Indian government added: “We know that Britain, having just left the EU, would never accept an EU-style FOI arrangement with India. That’s not what we want. But consider that the call for Indian talent is coming from UK business and the NHS. Privately the feeling here is that Indian nationals will be adequately represented through a points-based entry system.”
india’s Whitehall-inspired government buildings
Cause for optimism was echoed by Deepak Bagla, managing director and CEO of Invest India, the country’s “National Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency”. He explained: “For India, the UK is our closest relationship and closest partnership. Britain gave us and left behind some of the best presents we have today. Look at our railways – we haven’t added much in the way of kilometres. Last year Indians made eight billion journeys on our railway network. “The third city of the world to get electricity after New York and London was Calcutta, in 1897. “A small company from England (Kilburn & Co) came to India with capital of less than £1,000 and secured electricity for a grid four kilometres square. “We have a lot to thank you for.”
Shri Deepak Bagla, CEO of Invest India
Invest India is today processing 388 fresh applications from British businesses in the fields of IT, renewable energy, chemicals, food processing and tourism, said Mr Bagla. “Already there’s a lot happening. The kind of work we are doing together on innovation and technology – so not just investment – is huge,” he said. “We’re trying to get our startups working together, that’s huge too. “Investment has been streamlined. Our India access programme is being run in UK to help British SMEs increase balance sheets and access to market opportunities, and we’re working closely on an Indian fast-track mechanism with the UK’s Department of International Trade. “A foreign-owned telecoms company enters India and can have 36 million customers in 30 months. It’s almost unreal.” India’s economic boom has seen major changes across its population of 1.3 billion people. It boasts the second largest population to have internet access – 661 million (the largest to speak English). And two in three who join the internet every second are from the country’s villages.
Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar


thedailyexpress--2020-02-17--Labour warning: Lord Falconer 'depressed' by party as he shuns leadership candidates

Nigel Farage asked Lord Charlie Falconer how he was feeling about the Labour Party after being part of a previous-winning party .
Mr Falconer explained the failure of the election was down to Jeremy Corbyn as the public couldn ’ t see the party taking over Government “ straight away ” .
Labour suffered a humiliating defeat in the December general election which saw some seats turn Conservative for the first time in history .
Speaking to Nigel Farage on LBC , Lord Falconer said : “ I feel depressed .
In the run-up to the election the Labour Party @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ There were too many doubts about the leadership .
Jeremy Corbyn had failed , over the last three years , to provide any particular clarity , about what should happen to the main issue of the day , namely whether we should leave the European Union , and if so on what terms .
“ You have to be able to say to the country 'they are bad , we have something that we offer that you could accept ' and they were n't doing that .
“ We 've got @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the moment , it 's going to be very difficult . ''
READ MORE : Labour deputy hopeful under fire after 'car crash ' interview

Charlie Falconer says Labour Party makes him feel 'depressed'
Nigel Farage asked Lord Charlie Falconer how he was feeling about the Labour Party after being part of a previous-winning party. Mr Falconer explained the failure of the election was down to Jeremy Corbyn as the public couldn’t see the party taking over Government “straight away”. Labour suffered a humiliating defeat in the December general election which saw some seats turn Conservative for the first time in history.
Speaking to Nigel Farage on LBC, Lord Falconer said: “I feel depressed. In the run-up to the election the Labour Party couldn’t take over straight away. “There were too many doubts about the leadership. Jeremy Corbyn had failed, over the last three years, to provide any particular clarity, about what should happen to the main issue of the day, namely whether we should leave the European Union, and if so on what terms. “You have to be able to say to the country 'they are bad, we have something that we offer that you could accept' and they weren't doing that. “We've got a long way back to go at the moment, it's going to be very difficult." READ MORE: Labour deputy hopeful under fire after 'car crash' interview
Labour Peer Lord Charlie Falconer said the party has made him feel “depressed”
Lord Charlie Falconer explained the failure of the election was down to Mr Corbyn
Following Mr Corbyn’s announcement to step down, Sir Keir Starmer, Rebecca Long-Bailey and Lisa Nandy have thrown their hats in the ring to become the next Labour leader. Mr Farage added: “How do you assess the remaining candidates?” Lord Falconer said: “First of all Rebecca Long-Bailey has specifically said she gives 10 out of 10 to Jeremy Corbyn. “She is effectively saying I am the continuity candidate for Jeremy Corbyn.
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Labour suffered a humiliating defeat in the December general election
Corbyn has 'long political career ahead of him' says Burgon
“If she wins the leadership election we are, effectively ceasing to compete for power in the country, because people will think it's a continuation of Jeremy Corbyn, who they have conclusively repudiated, then we are not trying to be in Government. “Lisa Nandy has got a lot to say about the act we lost touch with the heartland and Keir Starmer is a very big figure who is able and competent but was yet to define himself politically.” It comes after Ms Thornberry failed to remain in the party's leadership race after falling short of enough backers to move through to the final stage of the contest. Despite a desperate last-minute scramble ahead of the midnight deadline, Ms Thornberry was unable to convince enough people to stay in the race. DON'T MISS Corbyn comeback: Disgraced leader could be offered top front bench [INSIGHT]
Gloves off! Piers Morgan and Alastair Campbell clash in fiery spat [VIDEO]
Wales on the BRINK: Poll reveals support for scrapping Welsh Assembly [INSIGHT]
Main reason for not sticking with Labour
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-02-17--Two-year Brexit DELAY must be agreed by July 1 – EU document makes order to Boris Johnson

And the bloc is already gearing up for a summit in June which will be pivotal in deciding a way forward - with arrangements for the Irish border likely to top the agenda .
Boris Johnson is keen to strike a deal by the end of the year which will draw a line under Brexit once and for all , as well as clearing the way to rubber-stamp other deals with third countries such as the United States .
Mr Johnson is vehemently opposed to extending the transition period because it would delay the UK ’ s ability to strike @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian giving a clear indication of the brutal nature of negotiations with his suggestion that the two sides will “ rip each other apart ” - and the directive , published by the European Commission earlier this month , likewise underlines what is at stake .
On February 25 , the European Council is scheduled to adopt the decision authorising the opening of talks .
Once this has happened , negotiations can get underway in earnest , with the first formal meeting likely to take place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ document explains : “ The Commission intends to achieve as much as possible during the transition period .
“ We are ready to work 24/7 to make the best out of the negotiations.
” READ MORE : Macron ’ s minister orders EU to secure access to UK fish “ It is possible to extend the transition period by one to two years . ''
Crucially , however , the Commission , led by President Ursula von der Leyen , adds : “ This decision must be taken jointly by the EU and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If no decision has been taken by the Joint Committee before July 2020 , there is no other legal basis for extending the transition beyond 2020.
” DO N'T MISS Why Boris Johnson dubbed Maastricht negotiations a ‘ copybook triumph ' [ INSIGHT ] SNP warning : How independent Scotland would damage UK-US relations [ EXPLAINED ] Boris Johnson to defy Leave Campaign ’ s prediction of 10-year EU talks [ REVEALED ] And it stresses there remains the real risk of a no-deal outcome , explaining : “ As in every negotiation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreement is there .
“ Regardless of whether a future partnership will be in place , all businesses need to prepare now for the end of the transition period , as the UK will no longer be in the Single Market or the Customs Union.
” With such a possibility in mind , a crunch conference is scheduled for June prior to any final decision about extending the transition .
The Commission explains : “ The High-Level Conference in June , as foreseen by the Withdrawal Agreement , aims to take stock of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Commission will also use the Conference to take stock of the state of implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement , in particular when it comes to citizens ' rights and the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland.
” Speaking at the annual Munich Security Conference yesterday , Mr Le Drian said Brussels would be ruthless in talks with the UK .
He said : `` I think that on trade issues and the mechanism for future relations , which we are going to start on , we are going to rip each other apart @

Von der Leyen: Agreement can’t be reached without extension
And the bloc is already gearing up for a summit in June which will be pivotal in deciding a way forward - with arrangements for the Irish border likely to top the agenda. Boris Johnson is keen to strike a deal by the end of the year which will draw a line under Brexit once and for all, as well as clearing the way to rubber-stamp other deals with third countries such as the United States.
Mr Johnson is vehemently opposed to extending the transition period because it would delay the UK’s ability to strike such deals. However, problems remain, with French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian giving a clear indication of the brutal nature of negotiations with his suggestion that the two sides will “rip each other apart” - and the directive, published by the European Commission earlier this month, likewise underlines what is at stake. On February 25, the European Council is scheduled to adopt the decision authorising the opening of talks.
Ursula von der Leyen, European Commission President, and UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson
Boris Johnson is opposed to extending the process beyond the end of the year
Once this has happened, negotiations can get underway in earnest, with the first formal meeting likely to take place at the beginning of March. The document explains: “The Commission intends to achieve as much as possible during the transition period. “We are ready to work 24/7 to make the best out of the negotiations.” READ MORE: Macron’s minister orders EU to secure access to UK fish
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Ursula von der Leyen with Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the US House of Representatives
Jean-Yves Le Drian has warned negotiations will be brutal
Ursula von der Leyen's European Commission
And it stresses there remains the real risk of a no-deal outcome, explaining: “As in every negotiation, the risk of not reaching an agreement is there. “Regardless of whether a future partnership will be in place, all businesses need to prepare now for the end of the transition period, as the UK will no longer be in the Single Market or the Customs Union.” With such a possibility in mind, a crunch conference is scheduled for June prior to any final decision about extending the transition.
Brexit timeline: How the process will unfold
The Commission explains: “The High-Level Conference in June, as foreseen by the Withdrawal Agreement, aims to take stock of the progress in negotiations. “The Commission will also use the Conference to take stock of the state of implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement, in particular when it comes to citizens' rights and the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland.” Speaking at the annual Munich Security Conference yesterday, Mr Le Drian said Brussels would be ruthless in talks with the UK. He said: "I think that on trade issues and the mechanism for future relations, which we are going to start on, we are going to rip each other apart.
Irish border: The issue will be high on the agenda
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-02-17--Long-Bailey backs Corbyn for future Labour role despite general election wipeout

Ms Long-Bailey said Mr Corbyn - who led the party to its worst election result since 1935 - would be offered a prominent position on her frontbench team if she succeeded him as leader .
Asked if she would give him a job she said : “ I ’ d like to but I don ’ t know whether he wants to do it .
It ’ s up to him .
I love him so.
” The shadow business secretary , who is trailing Sir Keir Starmer in the Labour race , has been labelled the ‘ Continuity Corbyn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10 out of 10 ” for his leadership .
Miss Long-Bailey has been publicly backed by hard-Left Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell and Jon Lansman , the founder of the pro-Corbyn Momentum group .
But speaking on the BBC ’ s Andrew Marr show she said she found the ‘ Continuity Corbyn ’ tag insulting .
She said : “ Everybody knows what I believe in and I ’ ll never deviate from that , but I ’ m very much my own person and to suggest I ’ m a continuation of any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because I ’ m a woman.
” But she said still backed Mr Corbyn ’ s disastrous policies despite the devastating losses suffered by the party in Labour ’ s traditional heartlands .
She said : “ We ’ ve come so far and we ’ ve developed some of the most transformational policies that we ’ ve seen in a generation .
“ We weren ’ t being radical in terms of our public spending plans .
In fact we were way behind other leading industrial nations . ''
Tensions between the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weekend when favourite Sir Keir Starmer refused to commit to finding room for his rivals in his shadow cabinet .
Sir Keir said he `` saluted '' Ms Long-Bailey and Lisa Nandy but he would not say if he would have either on his front bench .
Speaking at a leadership hustings in Glasgow , he said : `` I do n't think any of us are going to get into jostling for positions on this . ''

Rebecca Long-Bailey is a ‘continuation of Corbyn’ says Marr
Ms Long-Bailey said Mr Corbyn - who led the party to its worst election result since 1935 - would be offered a prominent position on her frontbench team if she succeeded him as leader. Asked if she would give him a job she said: “I’d like to but I don’t know whether he wants to do it. It’s up to him. I love him so.”
It’s up to him. I love him so Rebecca Long-Bailey
The shadow business secretary, who is trailing Sir Keir Starmer in the Labour race, has been labelled the ‘Continuity Corbyn’ candidate after she gave him “10 out of 10” for his leadership. Miss Long-Bailey has been publicly backed by hard-Left Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell and Jon Lansman, the founder of the pro-Corbyn Momentum group. But speaking on the BBC’s Andrew Marr show she said she found the ‘Continuity Corbyn’ tag insulting.
Rebecca Long-Bailey said she 'loved' Jeremy Corbyn and would offer hime a frontbench job
She said: “Everybody knows what I believe in and I’ll never deviate from that, but I’m very much my own person and to suggest I’m a continuation of any individual is quite disrespectful, not least because I’m a woman.” But she said still backed Mr Corbyn’s disastrous policies despite the devastating losses suffered by the party in Labour’s traditional heartlands. She said: “We’ve come so far and we’ve developed some of the most transformational policies that we’ve seen in a generation. “We weren’t being radical in terms of our public spending plans. In fact we were way behind other leading industrial nations." READ MORE: GMB’s Richard Madeley slams Dawn Butler over Labour election defeat
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Sir Keir Starmer remains favourite to win the Labour leadership race
Rebecca Long-Bailey said she found the ‘Continuity Corbyn’ tag insulting
Lisa Nandy said she would be proud to work with her leadership rivals
Tensions between the three remaining leadership contenders surfaced at the weekend when favourite Sir Keir Starmer refused to commit to finding room for his rivals in his shadow cabinet. Sir Keir said he "saluted" Ms Long-Bailey and Lisa Nandy but he would not say if he would have either on his front bench. Speaking at a leadership hustings in Glasgow, he said: "I don't think any of us are going to get into jostling for positions on this."
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Rebecca Long-Bailey gave Jeremy Corbyn '10 out of 10' for his leadership of the Labour Party


thedailyexpress--2020-02-17--Macron’s party in disarray as Paris mayoral candidate withdraws in sexting scandal

The candidate for the mayor of Paris , Benjamin Griveaux , was forced to withdraw from the race over allegations of sending graphic sexual videos to an unidentified woman .
Mr Griveaux was one of Mr Macron ’ s trusted foot soldiers , and a key political chess piece for centrist party La République En Marche !
Speaking of the scandal , an advisor to the party said : “ Whoever ends up as the new head of list , what will be their political legitimacy now ?
” Mr Griveaux is 42 .
He is married to Julia Minkowski @ @ @ @ @ @ @ children .
The legitimacy of the allegation has not been commented on by Mr Griveaux , or his team , but the mayoral candidate immediately stepped down .
He said : “ I don ’ t want to expose myself and my family anymore when any sort of attack is allowed , it goes too far .
“ This decision costs me , but my priorities are clear my family comes first.
” The scandal comes a month before Parisians are set to head to the polls to elect their mayor .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s most scrutinised , and has already been rife with intense rivalry and in-fighting .
Whatever the ultimate result , the loss of Mr Griveaux has dealt a serious blow to Mr Macron .
Mr Griveaux , who was once a member of France ’ s Socialist Party , was one of Mr Macron ’ s most trusted early advisors .
He also served as Mr Macron ’ s spokesperson during his presidential campaign .
La République En Marche !
was founded in 2016 , and literally translates to ‘ The Republic on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sometimes shortened to En Marche , which shares the same initials as Mr Macron .
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[ ANALYSIS ] Mr Griveaux left the Socialist Party to help Mr Macron set up the centrist movement in 2016 .
He was criticised , amongst others , for his privileged access @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a creation of another political elite that Mr Macron himself claimed to be fighting against .
The video which allegedly contains Mr Griveaux , was openly leaked by Russian activist Piotr Pavlenski , who declared himself a “ Macron opponent ” .
When asked why he leaked the video , Mr Pavleski said he had a duty to do so , even though he could face up to two years in prison .
He added : “ Griveaux is someone who constantly brings up family values , who says that he wants to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quotes as an example his wife and children .
Mr Pavlenski concluded that Mr Griveaux was only one of the people on the list of his potential targets .
The mayoral hopeful ’ s rival candidates criticised the publication of the private messages , with one calling it a “ grave threat for our democracy ” .

Brexit: Macron will try to win back support says Martin Daubney
The candidate for the mayor of Paris, Benjamin Griveaux, was forced to withdraw from the race over allegations of sending graphic sexual videos to an unidentified woman. Mr Griveaux was one of Mr Macron’s trusted foot soldiers, and a key political chess piece for centrist party La République En Marche! Speaking of the scandal, an advisor to the party said: “Whoever ends up as the new head of list, what will be their political legitimacy now?”
Mr Griveaux is 42. He is married to Julia Minkowski, a lawyer, and has three children. The legitimacy of the allegation has not been commented on by Mr Griveaux, or his team, but the mayoral candidate immediately stepped down. He said: “I don’t want to expose myself and my family anymore when any sort of attack is allowed, it goes too far. “This decision costs me, but my priorities are clear my family comes first.”
Macron's party has been plunged into chaos by a sexting scandal
Benjamin Griveaux is accused of sending graphic footage to a woman that is not his wife
The scandal comes a month before Parisians are set to head to the polls to elect their mayor. The election is one of the country’s most scrutinised, and has already been rife with intense rivalry and in-fighting. Whatever the ultimate result, the loss of Mr Griveaux has dealt a serious blow to Mr Macron. READ MORE: Macron’s spokesman flees as yellow vest protesters storm office
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Mr Griveaux was standing for the Mayor of Paris
Mr Griveaux previously served as a government spokesperson
Mr Griveaux was instrumental to the founding of Mr Macron's En Marche! party
Mr Griveaux left the Socialist Party to help Mr Macron set up the centrist movement in 2016. He was criticised, amongst others, for his privileged access to Mr Macron, which some called a creation of another political elite that Mr Macron himself claimed to be fighting against. The video which allegedly contains Mr Griveaux, was openly leaked by Russian activist Piotr Pavlenski, who declared himself a “Macron opponent”. When asked why he leaked the video, Mr Pavleski said he had a duty to do so, even though he could face up to two years in prison.
France: Riot police clash with protestors on streets
He added: “Griveaux is someone who constantly brings up family values, who says that he wants to be the mayor of families and always quotes as an example his wife and children. “He lies to voters.” Mr Pavlenski concluded that Mr Griveaux was only one of the people on the list of his potential targets. The mayoral hopeful’s rival candidates criticised the publication of the private messages, with one calling it a “grave threat for our democracy”.
Piotr Pavlenski openly admitted he leaked the video, saying he was a 'Macron opponent'
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-17--EU’s budget compromise stated as even WORSE option as deadlock remains

European Council President Charles Michel is now set to face an uphill battle in the negotiation process .
The Finnish negotiations attempted last year also faced a similar challenge , but the European bloc seems increasingly frustrated in recent times .
Mr Michel is looking to negotiate a bargain on the European Union budget for 2021 to 2027 .
The bloc ’ s leaders are set to gather in Brussels on Thursday to thrash out the details of the budget , which has seen the countries at loggerheads .
Mr Michel , the former Belgian prime minister , has produced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outline a proposal of compromise .
However , this has seemingly been roundly rejected by European diplomats , who are drawing hard lines in the sand .
The document , released on February 14 , was described by one senior diplomat as a “ Valentine ’ s Day without presents ” .
Another diplomat said : “ The new proposal won ’ t make things any easier for the heads of state and government .
“ It will be even harder to reach an agreement now.
” The plan outlined by Mr Michel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be aimed at Eastern European countries .
Many of these countries face harsh cuts to their regional development funding , and it appears Mr Michel wishes to appease them .
READ MORE : EU EXPOSED ?
Claim bloc 's advertising budget was more than Coca Cola's It is hoped some of his proposals will be able to reconcile these governments to EU Green Deal targets - something which has also been a tough negotiating process .
However , the moves by Mr Michel have been snubbed by some in the west .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ is bad news that Charles Michel has watered down the current proposal on the rule of law .
“ This is a step in the wrong direction.
” DO N'T MISS EU CHAOS : European Union in major row as Macron infuriates bloc [ REVEALED ] EU fury : Propaganda row as bloc accused of splurging taxpayer cash [ SHOCK ] EU chiefs slammed in scathing attack as Philippe Lamberts lashes out [ INSIGHT ] The proposal submitted by Mr Michel has drawn striking similarities to the budget proposed by the Finnish , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the European Union in December .
The Finns proposed a budget of €1.087 trillion at the time , whereas €1.095 trillion is now being suggested .
This figure is equivalent to 1.074 percent of the Gross National Income of the European Union .
But it seems the main contender Mr Michel will have to face is to come in the form of Emmanuel Macron in Paris .
Mr Macron holds agricultural spending dear , and Mr Michel ’ s proposal appears to seek to upset the status quo .
The current proposal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spent on the Commons Agricultural Policy - a significant increase from the Commission ’ s original proposal .

EU budget: ECA gives update on 2018 spending
European Council President Charles Michel is now set to face an uphill battle in the negotiation process. The Finnish negotiations attempted last year also faced a similar challenge, but the European bloc seems increasingly frustrated in recent times. Mr Michel is looking to negotiate a bargain on the European Union budget for 2021 to 2027.
The bloc’s leaders are set to gather in Brussels on Thursday to thrash out the details of the budget, which has seen the countries at loggerheads. Mr Michel, the former Belgian prime minister, has produced a 53 page document which seeks to outline a proposal of compromise. However, this has seemingly been roundly rejected by European diplomats, who are drawing hard lines in the sand. The document, released on February 14, was described by one senior diplomat as a “Valentine’s Day without presents”.
European Council President Charles Michel will have to thrash out an EU budget deadlock
€1.095 trillion is being suggested as the EU Budget
Another diplomat said: “The new proposal won’t make things any easier for the heads of state and government. “It will be even harder to reach an agreement now.” The plan outlined by Mr Michel contains a series of gestures which appear to be aimed at Eastern European countries. Many of these countries face harsh cuts to their regional development funding, and it appears Mr Michel wishes to appease them. READ MORE: EU EXPOSED? Claim bloc's advertising budget was more than Coca Cola's
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EU leaders have drawn their battle lines regarding the budget
It is hoped some of his proposals will be able to reconcile these governments to EU Green Deal targets - something which has also been a tough negotiating process. However, the moves by Mr Michel have been snubbed by some in the west. A third diplomat added: “It is bad news that Charles Michel has watered down the current proposal on the rule of law. “This is a step in the wrong direction.” DON'T MISS
EU CHAOS: European Union in major row as Macron infuriates bloc [REVEALED]
EU fury: Propaganda row as bloc accused of splurging taxpayer cash [SHOCK]
EU chiefs slammed in scathing attack as Philippe Lamberts lashes out [INSIGHT]
Mr Michel is looking to negotiate a bargain on the European Union budget for 2021 to 2027
European countries have disagreed on the budget, with leaders attempting to mediate
The proposal submitted by Mr Michel has drawn striking similarities to the budget proposed by the Finnish, who held the presidency of the Council of the European Union in December. The Finns proposed a budget of €1.087 trillion at the time, whereas €1.095 trillion is now being suggested. This figure is equivalent to 1.074 percent of the Gross National Income of the European Union.
EU contributors and beneficiaries
But it seems the main contender Mr Michel will have to face is to come in the form of Emmanuel Macron in Paris. Mr Macron holds agricultural spending dear, and Mr Michel’s proposal appears to seek to upset the status quo. The current proposal would see 30 percent of the total spent on the Commons Agricultural Policy - a significant increase from the Commission’s original proposal.
Mr Macron may prove a stumbling block for Mr Michel's budget plans
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-17--Michelle Obama snub: Why Ex-Flotus WON’T follow daughters Malia and Sasha on social media

Michelle and Barack Obama have two grown-up daughters Malia and Sasha who are currently attending university.The pair remained under the watchful eye of the entire country as they resided in the White House while their father was President of the United States .
However , Michelle Obama has since revealed why she won ’ t be one of the ones watching when it comes to social media .
The world has watched former POTUS Barack Obama ’ s daughters grow up before their eyes .
Barack Obama became president in 2009 , when Malia and Sasha were just children .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ - Malia is currently at Harvard , while Sasha attends classes at the University of Michigan .
Speaking about motherhood and social media , Michelle revealed she has no desire to keep tabs on her daughters .
The former First Lady told Oprah Winfrey her daughters have to be able to make their own decisions .
She went on to reveal she doesn ’ t want her daughters to “ define themselves ” by looking to herself or their former-president father .
She said : “ What I tell them is what I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to walk their own walk .
“ They can not define themselves by looking at each other or looking at me or their dad.
” JUST IN : Royal Heartbreak : Prince William gives heartfelt mental health advice The former First Lady revealed she wants the girls to get to know themselves and shape their own lives without her influence .
She added : “ They have to take the time to get to know themselves — give themselves a moment to figure out who they want to be in the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want them to be , not what the rest of the world says about them , but to really think about how they want to shape their lives and how they want to move in this world .
“ So , I don ’ t want the measuring themselves by external influences , and for young girls that is hard to do.
” However , she did reveal that there are some family members that do check up on the girls .
Michelle told show host Oprah that she doesn ’ t keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she can count on younger family members to do it for her .
Michelle counts on her younger family friends to keep up with her daughters while they are in school .
She added : ” It 's better for them to be checked by somebody younger than me . ''
The interview also saw Michelle reveal that being FLOTUS for eight years alongside a parent `` took its toll '' in a tell-all interview with Oprah Winfrey .
Michelle said : “ It was the biggest privilege of my life to serve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and I will continue the work to be a person of service , to try to work to make sure my life means something to somebody else .
“ But those eight years were hard .
It ’ s a hard job .
It takes a toll.
” The onstage chat with Oprah was part of her “ 2020 vision : Your Life in Focus Tour ” .

Michelle Obama discusses her daughters with Oprah Winfrey
Michelle and Barack Obama have two grown-up daughters Malia and Sasha who are currently attending university.The pair remained under the watchful eye of the entire country as they resided in the White House while their father was President of the United States. However, Michelle Obama has since revealed why she won’t be one of the ones watching when it comes to social media.
The world has watched former POTUS Barack Obama’s daughters grow up before their eyes. Barack Obama became president in 2009, when Malia and Sasha were just children. Now, both daughters are grown up - Malia is currently at Harvard, while Sasha attends classes at the University of Michigan. Speaking about motherhood and social media, Michelle revealed she has no desire to keep tabs on her daughters.
Michelle Obama revealed why she won't follow her daughters on social media in an interview with Opra
Michelle revealed she has no desire to keep tabs on her daughters
The former First Lady told Oprah Winfrey her daughters have to be able to make their own decisions. She went on to reveal she doesn’t want her daughters to “define themselves” by looking to herself or their former-president father. She said: “What I tell them is what I continue to tell themselves is that they have to walk their own walk. “They cannot define themselves by looking at each other or looking at me or their dad.” JUST IN: Royal Heartbreak: Prince William gives heartfelt mental health advice
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Michelle doesn’t want her daughters to 'define themselves' by looking to herself of Barack
The former First Lady revealed she wants the girls to get to know themselves and shape their own lives without her influence. She added: “They have to take the time to get to know themselves — give themselves a moment to figure out who they want to be in the world. “Not who they think I want them to be, not what the rest of the world says about them, but to really think about how they want to shape their lives and how they want to move in this world. “So, I don’t want the measuring themselves by external influences, and for young girls that is hard to do.” DON'T MISS Michelle Obama gaffe: Ex-FLOTUS shoots hilarious burn at Ellen [LATEST]
Michelle Obama shock: Joe Biden drops emotional ex-FLOTUS confession [UPDATE]
Michelle Obama heartbreak: Ex-FLOTUS receives emotional confession [ANALYSIS]
Michelle wants the girls to get to know themselves and shape their own lives without her influence
Michelle says she can count on younger family members tocan count on younger family members to keep tabs on the girls
However, she did reveal that there are some family members that do check up on the girls. Michelle told show host Oprah that she doesn’t keep tabs on her kids online, because she can count on younger family members to do it for her. Michelle counts on her younger family friends to keep up with her daughters while they are in school. She added: ”It's better for them to be checked by somebody younger than me."
Michelle Obama discusses life as a college student
The interview also saw Michelle reveal that being FLOTUS for eight years alongside a parent "took its toll" in a tell-all interview with Oprah Winfrey. Michelle said: “It was the biggest privilege of my life to serve as this nation’s first lady, and I will continue the work to be a person of service, to try to work to make sure my life means something to somebody else. “But those eight years were hard. It’s a hard job. It takes a toll.” The onstage chat with Oprah was part of her “2020 vision: Your Life in Focus Tour”.
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she said it's better for them to be checked by somebody 'younger than me'


thedailyexpress--2020-02-18--Fury as MPs splurge THOUSANDS on comfy chairs for Westminster annex

The Houses of Parliament need repairing The furniture bill amounted to £27,766 , excluding VAT , with the funds taken from an existing parliamentary budget.Eight armchairs worth more than £1,000 each from UK manufacturer Orangebox are among the new pieces of furniture .
Other pieces include four teal sofas , six tan leather chairs and several coffee and side tables .
Hard Brexit opponents STILL hopeful over trade deal with EU ties HS2 route MAPPED : When will HS2 be finished ?
Route of High Speed 2 A House of Commons spokesman said : `` Portcullis House is a hugely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ used by MPs and staff for dining , cafe facilities and as a meeting place .
`` In recent years Portcullis House has become a central point for parliamentary business .
“ In view of the increasing demand , we have adapted the courtyard to increase its capacity . ''
Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey questioned the expenditure , writing on Twitter : `` I see House authorities have brought in sofas and luxury armchairs to the Atrium in Portcullis House .
I 'm not a skinflint but really ?
?
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sic ) as an advert , not taxpayers ' money . ''

The Houses of Parliament need repairing
The furniture bill amounted to £27,766, excluding VAT, with the funds taken from an existing parliamentary budget.Eight armchairs worth more than £1,000 each from UK manufacturer Orangebox are among the new pieces of furniture. Other pieces include four teal sofas, six tan leather chairs and several coffee and side tables.
A House of Commons spokesman said: "Portcullis House is a hugely popular and valued building on the estate used by MPs and staff for dining, cafe facilities and as a meeting place. "In recent years Portcullis House has become a central point for parliamentary business. “In view of the increasing demand, we have adapted the courtyard to increase its capacity." Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey questioned the expenditure, writing on Twitter: "I see House authorities have brought in sofas and luxury armchairs to the Atrium in Portcullis House. I'm not a skinflint but really?? "I hope these are donated/pro nono (sic) as an advert, not taxpayers' money."
Inside Portcullis House
The Work and Pensions Secretary added: "These are the same House authorities that don't provide appropriate office chairs or lighting for a working environment, helped by the fact that we are in a Royal Palace and not technically subject to health and safety legislation (though they take a lot of it seriously)." The Taxpayers' Alliance campaign group said the Commons ought to be "saving every penny of taxpayer cash possible" given the costs of refurbishing Parliament. Duncan Simpson, its research director, said: "If Parliament is sitting on this kind of cash then it shouldn't be splashing it on sofas just so that MPs can sit and slope in slightly greater comfort.
Portcullis House
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-17--Andrew Neil blasts No 10 after Sabisky quits ‘Why was he ever appointed?'

The newly appointed Mr Sabisky quit his role tonight after a series of disturbing Twitter posts came to light , sparking comments from Mr Neil .
Mr Neil said : Sabisky has resigned .
Quelle surprise .
Why , exactly , was he ever appointed ?
Is nobody vetted anymore for Downing Street ?
” Mr Sabisky was given the role after Boris Johnson ’ s special advisor Dominic Cummings put out a post on his blog calling for “ misfits ” .
The post was designed to break down barriers and put more working class or free-thinking candidates in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ posts comparing women ’ s sport to the Paralympics were unearthed this week .
He said : “ The media hysteria about my old stuff online is mad but I wanted to help HMG not be a distraction .
Accordingly I 've decided to resign as a contractor .
“ I hope no.10 hires more ppl w/ good geopolitical forecasting track records & that media learn to stop selective quoting .
“ I know this will disappoint a lot of ppl but I signed up to do real work , not be in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : if I ca n't do the work properly there 's no point , & I have a lot of other things to do w/ my life .
“ Last of all I am beyond grateful to everyone who supported me publicly & privately , all kinds of great friends , left & right wing alike - you 're the best people and eventually I will get around to thanking you all one by one .
”

Andrew Sabisky: Expert on resignation of Number 10 adviser
The newly appointed Mr Sabisky quit his role tonight after a series of disturbing Twitter posts came to light, sparking comments from Mr Neil. Mr Neil said: Sabisky has resigned. Quelle surprise. Why, exactly, was he ever appointed? Is nobody vetted anymore for Downing Street?”
Mr Sabisky was given the role after Boris Johnson’s special advisor Dominic Cummings put out a post on his blog calling for “misfits”. The post was designed to break down barriers and put more working class or free-thinking candidates in government positions. Though this backfired when posts comparing women’s sport to the Paralympics were unearthed this week.
Andrew Neil has condemned No10 for hiring controversial Andrew Sabisky
This evening Mr Sabisky posted a message on Twitter. He said: “The media hysteria about my old stuff online is mad but I wanted to help HMG not be a distraction. Accordingly I've decided to resign as a contractor. “I hope no.10 hires more ppl w/ good geopolitical forecasting track records & that media learn to stop selective quoting.
Sabisky has resigned. Quelle surprise. Why, exactly, was he ever appointed? Is nobody vetted anymore for Downing Street? — Andrew Neil (@afneil) February 17, 2020
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