thedailyexpress--2020-08-13--Brexit: This is NOT up for discussion! EU sent ferocious warning on UK fishing waters

Meanwhile , Sinn Fein vice president Michelle O'Neill has said a united Ireland would offer Northern Ireland a `` way back in '' to the European Union , Sinn Fein vice president Michelle O'Neill said .
Mr Frost also suggested a deal could be done next month - and insisted the UK had no intention of threatening the integrity of the EU 's Single Market .
Tweeting in advance of next week 's meeting with EU opposite number Michel Barnier , Mr Frost said : `` Our assessment is that agreement can be reached in September and we will work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' THIS BLOG HAS CLOSED .
CLICK HERE FOR TODAY 'S LIVE UPDATES .
`` As we keep saying , we are not looking for a special or unique agreement .
We want a deal with , at its core , an FTA like those the EU has agreed with other friendly countries , like Canada . ''
Nevertheless , he warned : `` The UK 's sovereignty , over our laws , our courts , or our fishing waters , is of course not up for discussion and we will not accept @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we are n't looking for anything which threatens the integrity of the EU ’ s single market . ''
Speaking prior to Prime Minister Boris Johnson 's visit to Northern Ireland today , Ms O'Neill , whose party is unequivocally committed to Irish unity , said planning needed to begin immediately - and claimed the UK Government 's `` reckless '' approach to Brexit meant more people were likely to vote for it .
She said : `` Now is the time to plan for unity and to start to put the facts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ understand what does an all-Ireland health service look like , what does an all-Ireland education system look like . ''
Large numbers of people in a border poll would vote for a united Ireland , Ms O'Neill said .
She added : `` So for a lot of people in this decade we have in front of us , they 're going to be considering which union they wish to be part of and the EU have offered us a route back in .
`` So for some people it may not be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be about do they value their European citizenship .
`` I think that 's going to be a very interesting debate . ''
Mr Johnson will outline the first stage of plans to mark the centenary of Northern Ireland 's foundation during his visit .
Speaking in advance of his trip , he said : `` Together , we will make sure Northern Ireland is ready to take full advantage of the many opportunities that lie ahead and that no part of Northern Ireland is left behind . ''
6:07am update : 2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the UK after Brexit TWO million EU citizens have been granted the right to remain in the UK after Brexit , the BBC has reported .
The two million EU citizens were already residing in the UK – though an additional 1.5 million people who have lived in the country for under five years were granted ‘ pre-settled status ’ .
Both statuses give holders the right to live , work , and use the NHS in the UK .
Under the Home Office ’ s settlement scheme , EU citizens have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the status .
The government has said anyone living in the UK who fails to apply before the deadline will not be automatically deported .
However , Liberal Democrat home affairs spokeswoman Christine Jardine blasted the fact the scheme does not provide settled status holders with any physical documentation proving their status .
She said : “ They must not become the victims of a new Windrush-style scandal.
” Post-Brexit trade negotiations have taken a hit this week after the US said it would uphold 25 percent tariffs on Scottish and Irish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK £300 million in lost sales .
International Trade Secretary Liz Truss said she had previously ‘ warned ’ against new tariffs on the UK , that fresh levies on blended whisky and gin had been avoided , and that tariffs on shortbread had been lifted .
However , existing tariffs on single malt whisky remain , which Scotch Whisky Association CEO Karen Betts said is “ deeply disappointing ” and inflicts “ huge damage.
” Ms Truss said she is “ stepping up talks with the US to remove them as soon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ FTSE 100 stock index fell 1.5 percent at close yesterday amid Brexit worries , analysts said .
The FTSE 100 represents the value of the 100 largest companies is the UK .
Joshua Mahony , an analyst from finance group IG , said the drop was because of a “ double whammy ” of concerns over Brexit and the end of the furlough scheme .
The next round of UK-EU Brexit talks are due to commence on Monday next week .
5.45pm update : Boris Johnson rules out trade border down the Irish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be a trade border down the Irish Sea `` over my dead body '' following Brexit .
During a visit to Northern Ireland , the Prime Minister reiterated his promise that businesses in the region would enjoy unfettered access to markets in England , Scotland and Wales .
He has also agreed to `` intensify '' partnership arrangements with the Republic of Ireland and said more work could be done on bilateral deals .
`` There will be no border down the Irish Sea - over my dead body . ''
The next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ August 18 between the Prime Minister 's adviser David Frost and the European Union 's Michel Barnier in Brussels .
Ireland has been warned the country could be heading for a devastating recession with both the outbreak of coronavirus and consequences of Brexit blamed .
According to the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council , the economy may have shrunk by 21 percent in April after businesses were forced to close following the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic .
Experts claim the crisis has been worsened by Brexit .
Last week , latest figures from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ billion in public finances in July compared to a surplus of €896 million which was recorded in the same month last year .
The deterioration of €8.3 billion was reportedly due to increases in expenditure following the outbreak of the deadly virus .
Ireland 's Prime Minister Micheál Martin met with Boris Johnson today to discuss the UK 's post-Brexit trade negotiations with the EU .
“ It seems to me that there is a landing zone if that will is there on both sides , and I think it is , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in June .
“ My own gut instinct is that there is a shared understanding that we don ’ t need another shock to the economic system that a sub-optimal trade agreement would give alongside of the enormous shock of COVID , ” he told reporters in Belfast .
The Prime Minister has promised to develop Britain 's relationship with Ireland after meeting the new Taoiseach .
Boris Johnson greeted Micheal Martin with an elbow bump outside Hillsborough Castle in Co Down .
It was Mr Johnson 's first visit to Northern Ireland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and his first face-to-face meeting with his Irish opposite number since a new Government was formed in Dublin .
Mr Johnson said : `` I had the honour of meeting the Taoiseach several years ago .
I am very pleased to develop our friendship and relationship now . ''
It was his first visit since the coronavirus pandemic struck and there have been calls for closer collaboration between Ireland and Britain to tackle the threat .
Mr Johnson added : `` It 's great to see you Taoiseach , it 's great @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and we look forward to developing our relationship in all sorts of ways - east-west , north-south , you name it . ''
With Britain due to sever ties with the European Union - and leave the Common Fisheries Policy - at the end of the year , a fisherman has warned foreign supertrawlers who regularly plunder UK waters may be seizing the current uncertainty to stake their claim in the meantime .
Jeremy Percy , director of the New Under Tens Fishing Association ( NUTFA ) was speaking after a study by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of which is UK-owned - have already doubled the amount of time they have spent fishing in specially designated Marine Protection Areas ( MPAs ) in 2020 compared with last year .
Greenpeace is calling for the Government to crack down on ships which operate in MPAs at the end of the transition period - but Mr Percy is concerned supertrawlers are increasing the time they spend in UK waters as part of a long-term strategy .
Mr Percy , whose organisation represents boats which are under ten metres in length , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in action recently .
He added : `` When we observed the vessels fishing off the Sussex coast , they did n't seem to be catching much .
`` I explained this to a good friend of mine who is an expert in this sort of fishing and he did n't think they would be making any money there so the idea that they were continuing to build up a track record to strengthen their arguments post Brexit seemed sensible . ''
Ireland 's recently installed Taoiseach Micheal Martin said the relationship between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very warmly '' .
He said : `` We look forward to a very warm engagement .
`` It is important for us both in terms of the British-Irish relationship which has been the cornerstone of much progress on the island of Ireland and between our two countries for well over two to three decades , and we want to maintain that .
`` It is challenging times ahead with Covid , Brexit , all of that . ''
Mr Martin said it was particularly fitting the engagement was taking place so soon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ John Hume .
He said : `` We remember John at moments like this because he did so much to facilitate these kind of meetings and make them much more regular in the normal course of events . ''
Mr Johnson agreed that the meeting provided an appropriate moment to remember Mr Hume 's legacy .
Shortly after arriving at the castle , the Taoiseach joined the Prime Minister for a walk in the grounds .
Michel Barnier has responded to David Frost 's earlier announcement by retweeting a post by EU spokesman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ timetable for next week 's meetings .
Mr Ferrie commented : `` The agenda for next week ’ s round of EU-UK negotiations with @ MichelBarnier & @ DavidGHFrost is now available online .
Talks will take place @ EU_Commission in Brussels . ''
`` Changes are inevitable , with or without agreement on the new association . ''
12.35pm update : Brexit on the agenda for Boris during Northern Ireland visit Prime Minister Boris Johnson has started a series of meetings with political leaders on a visit to Northern Ireland .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minister Arlene Foster and Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill at Hillsborough Castle , where he will later have his first face-to-face meeting with Ireland 's premier Micheal Martin .
Mr Johnson is visiting Northern Ireland for the first time since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic .
He is expected to outline the first stage of plans to mark the centenary of Northern Ireland 's foundation .
Discussions are also expected to take place around the response to Covid-19 , rebuilding the economy and Brexit .
12.09pm update : As US talks hit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal with ?
POLL Brexit trade talks between the UK and US have been halted due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic .
Which country do you think Britain should prioritise a trade deal with ?
After unshackling from the EU earlier this year Britain is trying to tie up swift trade deals with major partners like the US and capitalise on its new freedom to strike bilateral deals rather than EU-wide ones .
But talks hit a major stumbling block when both sides agreed to postpone negotiations until next spring due to ongoing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as the US , the UK is also eyeing up trade deals with the EU , Japan , Australia and New Zealand in the coming months as it makes the most of its new found Brexit freedom .
UK Chief Negotiator David Frost has said UK sovereignty over its laws , courts and fishing waters was `` not up for discussion '' , adding that he would not accept anything which compromises any of that .
Mr Frost also suggested a deal could be done next month .
The importance of fishing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a timetable for trade talks due to get underway next week .
The agenda includes four two-hour sessions devoted to the issue on Wednesday and Thursday .
10.13am update : Boris odds-on to lead Tories into first post-Brexit general election Boris Johnson is odds on , at 8-11 to lead the Conservative Party at the next General Election .
Bookmaker Coral make it evens that he is toppled by the time the UK next goes to the polls .
Coral spokesman Harry Aitkenhead said : `` It 's odds on that Boris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time the Conservatives battle out a General Election , where he will try and win another majority as he did back in December . ''
Almost half of Britons aged 18 to 24 think it will be harder to get a job after the UK leaves the EU ’ s single market , with just three percent believing it will be easier .
The YouGov survey , commissioned by Best for Britain , surveyed 1,608 adults on August 7 and 8 .
In total , 48 percent of young people thought their job @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an overall figure of 40 percent .
Sterling rose against the dollar on Thursday , driven by dollar weakness as traders shrugged off Wednesday 's dismal GDP data but remained cautious about the longer-term economic outlook for Britain .
Markets were bearish in early trading , with European stocks down and the dollar weaker as investors started to lose hope that the U.S. government would agree on a stimulus deal to support the economy and the millions of workers who have lost their jobs .
Brexit is also weighing on the outlook for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the single market and customs union on December 31 whether or not a deal has been reached , market analysts have said .
Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis has underlined its importance to the rest of the UK in a post-Brexit world - despite Sinn Fein leader Michelle O'Neill 's suggestion that it could be part of a united Ireland within a decade .
Speaking on the day Prime Minister Boris Johnson visits Belfast to discuss planning for the celebrations to mark 100 years since Northern Ireland 's foundation , Mr Lewis said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for people right across the UK to celebrate Northern Ireland and its integral place within our Union .
`` We will use the centenary next year to promote it on the world stage.
” Massive foreign supertrawlers measuring more than 100 metres in length have already spent more than twice as long fishing in specially designated marine conservation areas in UK waters as they did in the whole of 2019 , shocking new research has indicated .
The report comes after 57 MPs from all major parties put their names to a letter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ban on the enormous vessels entering the zones , known as Marine Preservation Areas ( MPAs ) after Britain severs ties with the EU at the end of the year .
The investigation , undertaken by the environmental pressure group Greenpeace , revealed that while ships such as the Dutch-flagged Margiris , as well as numerous Russian craft , spent 2963 hours fishing in 39 protected areas , in the first six months of 2020 , supertrawlers had spent 5590 hours fishing in 19 protected areas .
In total , 23 supertrawlers have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this year - but not a single one of the ships in question is UK-owned , although some are registered here .
8.05am update : Johnson set for first meeting with new Taoiseach Martin During his visit to Northern Ireland , the Prime Minister will meet First Minister Arlene Foster and Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill to discuss how they can rebuild the economy .
Mr Johnson will also hold his first face-to-face meeting with Irish Taoiseach Micheal Martin since the new premier was elected earlier this summer .
They are expected to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a sustainable economic recovery as well as the UK 's post-Brexit trade negotiations with the EU .
Prior to his visit , Mr Johnson said the pandemic had demonstrated the strength of the UK and that Westminster and Stormont have worked closely together to get through the crisis .
7.55am update : Every date left as clock ticks down on transition period - TIMELINE Brexit means Brexit - and the UK is getting closer to its emancipation from the European Union .
What are the key dates left in the Brexit timeline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so far failed to provide either side with a suitable agreement , and as the end of the transition period draws closer and closer , Prime Minister Boris Johnson has vowed to end Brexit with or without a trade deal in place .
Brexit represents the most important constitutional shake-up the UK has known since it joined the six-nation European Economic Community all the way back in 1973 .
7.43am update : EU have offered us a way back in , Sinn Fein leader O'Neill claims A United Ireland would offer the North @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the European Union , Sinn Fein leader Michelle O'Neill has said , the day Boris Johnson paid a visit to Belfast .
Ms O'Neill , whose party in unequivocally committed to Irish unity , said planning needed to begin immediately - and claimed the UK Government 's `` reckless '' approach to Brexit meant more people were likely to vote for it .
She said : `` Now is the time to plan for unity and to start to put the facts on the table .
`` Let people understand what does an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ does an all-Ireland education system look like . ''
Large numbers of people in a border poll would vote for a united Ireland , Ms O'Neill said .
She added : `` So for a lot of people in this decade we have in front of us , they 're going to be considering which union they wish to be part of and the EU have offered us a route back in . ''

Boris Johnson visits Hillsborough Castle in Belfast
Meanwhile,Sinn Fein vice president Michelle O'Neill has said a united Ireland would offer Northern Ireland a "way back in" to the European Union, Sinn Fein vice president Michelle O'Neill said. Mr Frost also suggested a deal could be done next month - and insisted the UK had no intention of threatening the integrity of the EU's Single Market. Tweeting in advance of next week's meeting with EU opposite number Michel Barnier, Mr Frost said: "Our assessment is that agreement can be reached in September and we will work to achieve this if we can." THIS BLOG HAS CLOSED. CLICK HERE FOR TODAY'S LIVE UPDATES.
Trending
"As we keep saying, we are not looking for a special or unique agreement. We want a deal with, at its core, an FTA like those the EU has agreed with other friendly countries, like Canada." Nevertheless, he warned: "The UK's sovereignty, over our laws, our courts, or our fishing waters, is of course not up for discussion and we will not accept anything which compromises it - just as we aren't looking for anything which threatens the integrity of the EU’s single market." Speaking prior to Prime Minister Boris Johnson's visit to Northern Ireland today, Ms O'Neill, whose party is unequivocally committed to Irish unity, said planning needed to begin immediately - and claimed the UK Government's "reckless" approach to Brexit meant more people were likely to vote for it. She said: "Now is the time to plan for unity and to start to put the facts on the table. "Let people understand what does an all-Ireland health service look like, what does an all-Ireland education system look like."
Michel Barnier has been warned the UK will not compromise
Large numbers of people in a border poll would vote for a united Ireland, Ms O'Neill said. She added: "So for a lot of people in this decade we have in front of us, they're going to be considering which union they wish to be part of and the EU have offered us a route back in. "So for some people it may not be about Britishness versus Irishness, it may be about do they value their European citizenship. "I think that's going to be a very interesting debate." Mr Johnson will outline the first stage of plans to mark the centenary of Northern Ireland's foundation during his visit. Speaking in advance of his trip, he said: "Together, we will make sure Northern Ireland is ready to take full advantage of the many opportunities that lie ahead and that no part of Northern Ireland is left behind." (THIS IS A LIVE BLOG - SCROLL DOWN FOR REGULAR UPDATES)
David Frost's tweet
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6:07am update: 2 million EU citizens granted right to stay in the UK after Brexit TWO million EU citizens have been granted the right to remain in the UK after Brexit, the BBC has reported. The two million EU citizens were already residing in the UK – though an additional 1.5 million people who have lived in the country for under five years were granted ‘pre-settled status’. Both statuses give holders the right to live, work, and use the NHS in the UK. Under the Home Office’s settlement scheme, EU citizens have until June 30 next year to apply for the status. The government has said anyone living in the UK who fails to apply before the deadline will not be automatically deported. However, Liberal Democrat home affairs spokeswoman Christine Jardine blasted the fact the scheme does not provide settled status holders with any physical documentation proving their status. She said: “They must not become the victims of a new Windrush-style scandal.” 4:03am update: US-UK trade talks hit 'deeply disappointing' whisky roadblock Post-Brexit trade negotiations have taken a hit this week after the US said it would uphold 25 percent tariffs on Scottish and Irish single-malt whisky – which have cost the UK £300 million in lost sales. International Trade Secretary Liz Truss said she had previously ‘warned’ against new tariffs on the UK, that fresh levies on blended whisky and gin had been avoided, and that tariffs on shortbread had been lifted. However, existing tariffs on single malt whisky remain, which Scotch Whisky Association CEO Karen Betts said is “deeply disappointing” and inflicts “huge damage.” Ms Truss said she is “stepping up talks with the US to remove them as soon as possible.”
Trade Secretary Liz Truss said she would be "stepping up talks" to remove whisky tariffs by the US
1:48am update: FTSE drops over 'double whammy' Brexit and Furlough fears The UK’s FTSE 100 stock index fell 1.5 percent at close yesterday amid Brexit worries, analysts said. The FTSE 100 represents the value of the 100 largest companies is the UK. Joshua Mahony, an analyst from finance group IG, said the drop was because of a “double whammy” of concerns over Brexit and the end of the furlough scheme. The next round of UK-EU Brexit talks are due to commence on Monday next week. Edward Browne takes over live reporting from Steven Brown 5.45pm update: Boris Johnson rules out trade border down the Irish Sea Boris Johnson has said there will be a trade border down the Irish Sea "over my dead body" following Brexit. During a visit to Northern Ireland, the Prime Minister reiterated his promise that businesses in the region would enjoy unfettered access to markets in England, Scotland and Wales. He has also agreed to "intensify" partnership arrangements with the Republic of Ireland and said more work could be done on bilateral deals. "There will be no border down the Irish Sea - over my dead body." The next round of Brexit talks will begin on August 18 between the Prime Minister's adviser David Frost and the European Union's Michel Barnier in Brussels. 4.30pm update: Ireland panic: Brexit and COVID-19 blamed as Dublin faces devastating recession Ireland has been warned the country could be heading for a devastating recession with both the outbreak of coronavirus and consequences of Brexit blamed. According to the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council, the economy may have shrunk by 21 percent in April after businesses were forced to close following the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. Experts claim the crisis has been worsened by Brexit. Last week, latest figures from the Exchequer found a deficit of €7.4 billion in public finances in July compared to a surplus of €896 million which was recorded in the same month last year. The deterioration of €8.3 billion was reportedly due to increases in expenditure following the outbreak of the deadly virus. 3.35pm update: Irish Prime Minister sees 'landing zone' for Brexit deal Ireland's Prime Minister Micheál Martin met with Boris Johnson today to discuss the UK's post-Brexit trade negotiations with the EU. “It seems to me that there is a landing zone if that will is there on both sides, and I think it is,” said Martin, who became prime minister in June. “My own gut instinct is that there is a shared understanding that we don’t need another shock to the economic system that a sub-optimal trade agreement would give alongside of the enormous shock of COVID,” he told reporters in Belfast.
Ireland's Michael Martin on talks with Boris
3pm update: Steven Brown takes over from Ciaran McGrath 2.46pm update: Johnson vows to develop UK's relationship with Ireland The Prime Minister has promised to develop Britain's relationship with Ireland after meeting the new Taoiseach. Boris Johnson greeted Micheal Martin with an elbow bump outside Hillsborough Castle in Co Down. It was Mr Johnson's first visit to Northern Ireland since Stormont powersharing was restored in January, and his first face-to-face meeting with his Irish opposite number since a new Government was formed in Dublin. Mr Johnson said: "I had the honour of meeting the Taoiseach several years ago. I am very pleased to develop our friendship and relationship now." It was his first visit since the coronavirus pandemic struck and there have been calls for closer collaboration between Ireland and Britain to tackle the threat. Mr Johnson added: "It's great to see you Taoiseach, it's great to be here in Northern Ireland, and we look forward to developing our relationship in all sorts of ways - east-west, north-south, you name it." 2pm update: Supertrawler plot - Brexit free-for-all as fisherman warns ships STAKING CLAIM in UK waters With Britain due to sever ties with the European Union - and leave the Common Fisheries Policy - at the end of the year, a fisherman has warned foreign supertrawlers who regularly plunder UK waters may be seizing the current uncertainty to stake their claim in the meantime. Jeremy Percy, director of the New Under Tens Fishing Association (NUTFA) was speaking after a study by Greenpeace revealed the massive vessels - none of which is UK-owned - have already doubled the amount of time they have spent fishing in specially designated Marine Protection Areas (MPAs) in 2020 compared with last year. Greenpeace is calling for the Government to crack down on ships which operate in MPAs at the end of the transition period - but Mr Percy is concerned supertrawlers are increasing the time they spend in UK waters as part of a long-term strategy. Mr Percy, whose organisation represents boats which are under ten metres in length, said he had become curious after seeing supertrawlers in action recently. He added: "When we observed the vessels fishing off the Sussex coast, they didn't seem to be catching much. "I explained this to a good friend of mine who is an expert in this sort of fishing and he didn't think they would be making any money there so the idea that they were continuing to build up a track record to strengthen their arguments post Brexit seemed sensible." 1.46pm update: Martin offers warm words to Johnson Ireland's recently installed Taoiseach Micheal Martin said the relationship between him and Boris Johnson would work "very warmly". He said: "We look forward to a very warm engagement. "It is important for us both in terms of the British-Irish relationship which has been the cornerstone of much progress on the island of Ireland and between our two countries for well over two to three decades, and we want to maintain that. "It is challenging times ahead with Covid, Brexit, all of that." Mr Martin said it was particularly fitting the engagement was taking place so soon after the death of former SDLP leader John Hume. He said: "We remember John at moments like this because he did so much to facilitate these kind of meetings and make them much more regular in the normal course of events." Mr Johnson agreed that the meeting provided an appropriate moment to remember Mr Hume's legacy. Shortly after arriving at the castle, the Taoiseach joined the Prime Minister for a walk in the grounds. 12.44pm update: Barnier retweets agenda Michel Barnier has responded to David Frost's earlier announcement by retweeting a post by EU spokesman Daniel Ferrie in which he share the timetable for next week's meetings. Mr Ferrie commented: "The agenda for next week’s round of EU-UK negotiations with @MichelBarnier & @DavidGHFrost is now available online. Talks will take place @EU_Commission in Brussels." Mr Barnier added: "Within 5 months the transitional period #Brexit ends: United Kingdom leaves European Union single market & customs union. "Changes are inevitable, with or without agreement on the new association." 12.35pm update: Brexit on the agenda for Boris during Northern Ireland visit Prime Minister Boris Johnson has started a series of meetings with political leaders on a visit to Northern Ireland. He is meeting with the region's First Minister Arlene Foster and Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill at Hillsborough Castle, where he will later have his first face-to-face meeting with Ireland's premier Micheal Martin. Mr Johnson is visiting Northern Ireland for the first time since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. He is expected to outline the first stage of plans to mark the centenary of Northern Ireland's foundation. Discussions are also expected to take place around the response to Covid-19, rebuilding the economy and Brexit.
Theresa May and Leo Varadkar outside Number 10
Brexit: Michelle O’Neill brands leaving the EU a ‘reckless agenda’
12.09pm update: As US talks hit barrier, who should UK prioritise trade deal with? POLL Brexit trade talks between the UK and US have been halted due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Which country do you think Britain should prioritise a trade deal with? After unshackling from the EU earlier this year Britain is trying to tie up swift trade deals with major partners like the US and capitalise on its new freedom to strike bilateral deals rather than EU-wide ones. But talks hit a major stumbling block when both sides agreed to postpone negotiations until next spring due to ongoing concerns over the COVID-19 crisis. As well as the US, the UK is also eyeing up trade deals with the EU, Japan, Australia and New Zealand in the coming months as it makes the most of its new found Brexit freedom. 11.44am update: 'We won't compromise,' warns David Frost UK Chief Negotiator David Frost has said UK sovereignty over its laws, courts and fishing waters was "not up for discussion", adding that he would not accept anything which compromises any of that. Mr Frost also suggested a deal could be done next month. 11.25am update: Trade talks agenda puts fishing centre stage The importance of fishing rights has been highlighted after the publication of a timetable for trade talks due to get underway next week. The agenda includes four two-hour sessions devoted to the issue on Wednesday and Thursday.
The issue of fishing rights figures heavily on next week's agenda
11.04am update: Theresa May's 'loathing' of ex-Irish leader derailed Brexit talks - shock claim Theresa May's "loathing" of then-Irish Taoiseach Leo Varadkar may have derailed Brexit talks, a new book has suggested - with her replacement by Boris Johnson required in order to reset relations between London and Dublin. In his book, Ireland and the EU Post Brexit, Ray Bassett also highlights how Mrs May's decision to snub an invitation to address the Dail, Ireland's legislature, may have soured relations between the two countries at a time when close co-operation was urgently required. Mr Bassett, Ireland's former ambassador to Canada, Jamaica and the Bahamas, wrote: "There is no doubt but that trust has been severely lacking in some exchanges on Brexit." In September 2017, Mrs May "unwisely" turned down an invitation to speak at the legislature during a visit to Dublin.
Michel Barnier retweeted Daniel Ferrie's post
10.13am update: Boris odds-on to lead Tories into first post-Brexit general election Boris Johnson is odds on, at 8-11 to lead the Conservative Party at the next General Election.
Bookmaker Coral make it evens that he is toppled by the time the UK next goes to the polls.
Coral spokesman Harry Aitkenhead said: "It's odds on that Boris is still at the wheel the next time the Conservatives battle out a General Election, where he will try and win another majority as he did back in December." 10.05am update: Young Britons voice job concerns as end of transition looms Almost half of Britons aged 18 to 24 think it will be harder to get a job after the UK leaves the EU’s single market, with just three percent believing it will be easier. The YouGov survey, commissioned by Best for Britain, surveyed 1,608 adults on August 7 and 8. In total, 48 percent of young people thought their job prospects would get worse, compared with an overall figure of 40 percent.
Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis
10am update: Brexit worries put pressure on sterling Sterling rose against the dollar on Thursday, driven by dollar weakness as traders shrugged off Wednesday's dismal GDP data but remained cautious about the longer-term economic outlook for Britain. Markets were bearish in early trading, with European stocks down and the dollar weaker as investors started to lose hope that the U.S. government would agree on a stimulus deal to support the economy and the millions of workers who have lost their jobs. Brexit is also weighing on the outlook for sterling, with Britain due to leave the single market and customs union on December 31 whether or not a deal has been reached, market analysts have said. 9.31am update: Northern Ireland "integral to union", says Lewis Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis has underlined its importance to the rest of the UK in a post-Brexit world - despite Sinn Fein leader Michelle O'Neill's suggestion that it could be part of a united Ireland within a decade. Speaking on the day Prime Minister Boris Johnson visits Belfast to discuss planning for the celebrations to mark 100 years since Northern Ireland's foundation, Mr Lewis said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for people right across the UK to celebrate Northern Ireland and its integral place within our Union. "We will use the centenary next year to promote it on the world stage.”
Election: Brandon Lewis on Conservative trade deal position
9.02am update: Almost 60 percent of voters fear groceries will go up if no trade deal is struck Britons are concerned the price of their weekly shop will increase if the UK and the EU fail to agree a trade deal by the end of the year, a poll has indicated. The YouGov survey, commissioned by the pro-EU group Best for Britain, suggested 59 per cent of those asked thought grocery prices would go up. Just 3 per cent believed they would fall. 8.35am update: Brexit Britain gave EU eye-watering £14.4bn in final year of membership - 'Right to leave!' Britain handed over a massive £14.4billion to Brussels during the country's final year of EU membership, according to new figures. Treasury data published by the House of Commons Library showed the annual gross contribution to Brussels coffers was one of the highest in the UK’s 47 years as a member of the European bloc. The huge sum from taxpayers - nearly a billion pounds more than the previous year - was equivalent to more than £500 for every household in the UK. It would have been around £4.5billion higher without the rebate won by the then prime minister Margaret Thatcher during budget negotiations in the 1980s.
Dutch supertrawler Margiris


thedailyexpress--2020-08-14--Scotland brutally lashes out at Boris Johnson’s Brexit plan - ‘Needs a consensus!’

The Westminster Government wants to establish a new internal market between the four nations after December 31 , when the Brexit transition period comes to a close .
MSPs have warned “ every devolved power could be undermined ” by the proposals .
Giving evidence about the proposals on Wednesday , Scotland ’ s Constitution Secretary Mike Russell accused the Prime Minister of “ running a clear and deliberate anti-devolution policy ” .
Mr Russell , MSP for Argyll and Bute , argued the proposed legislation considers Westminster to be sovereign in trade and regulation disputes , and the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” .
He warned that Nicola Sturgeon 's Government is considering legal action to challenge the plans .
Mr Russell said : “ This is an outrageous power grab and it is a major weakening of devolution , and it should not be permitted to take place .
“ My view is that it reveals completely the agenda of the current UK Government , which is hostile to devolution and hostile particularly to Wales and Scotland for exercising their rights under devolution . ''
Ahead of next week 's crucial round of post-Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Holyrood ’ s Finance and Constitution Committee has been hearing evidence on the plans for an internal market .
The committee has now written to Business Secretary Alok Sharma calling for “ mutual trust and respect for the existing constitutional arrangements ” .
READ MORE : Brexiteers hail 'big win ' in UK-US trade relationship as tariffs end A spokeswoman for the UK Government has previously said the proposed internal market “ will ensure the free flow of goods and services across every part of the UK , while upholding the devolution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ powers will be transferred to the devolved administration after December 31 .
She added : “ This will give the devolved administrations power over more issues than they have ever had before , without removing any of their current powers.
” On behalf of the committee , Mr Crawford warned any new structures would have to be given the go-ahead by the devolved governments because “ trade-offs and balances are involved in making an internal market ” .
He said : “ There is an onus on all four governments and legislatures across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seek a solution to this complex and challenging issue .
“ This must be achieved through mutual trust and respect for the existing constitutional arrangements within the UK .

Sturgeon: Scotland will be independent 'sooner rather than later'
The Westminster Government wants to establish a new internal market between the four nations after December 31, when the Brexit transition period comes to a close. MSPs have warned “every devolved power could be undermined” by the proposals.
Trending
Giving evidence about the proposals on Wednesday, Scotland’s Constitution Secretary Mike Russell accused the Prime Minister of “running a clear and deliberate anti-devolution policy”.
Mr Russell, MSP for Argyll and Bute, argued the proposed legislation considers Westminster to be sovereign in trade and regulation disputes, and the UK Government “have a veto on everything”. He warned that Nicola Sturgeon's Government is considering legal action to challenge the plans. Mr Russell said: “This is an outrageous power grab and it is a major weakening of devolution, and it should not be permitted to take place.
MSPs have ripped apart the PM's proposal for a post-Brexit internal market
Mike Russell with Nicola Sturgeon
“My view is that it reveals completely the agenda of the current UK Government, which is hostile to devolution and hostile particularly to Wales and Scotland for exercising their rights under devolution." Ahead of next week's crucial round of post-Brexit talks between the UK and the EU, Holyrood’s Finance and Constitution Committee has been hearing evidence on the plans for an internal market. The committee has now written to Business Secretary Alok Sharma calling for “mutual trust and respect for the existing constitutional arrangements”. READ MORE: Brexiteers hail 'big win' in UK-US trade relationship as tariffs end
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Boris Johnson pictured in Northern Ireland on Thursday
The SNP's Mike Russell
Mr Russell is MSP for Argyll and Bute
A spokeswoman for the UK Government has previously said the proposed internal market “will ensure the free flow of goods and services across every part of the UK, while upholding the devolution settlement”. She argued that EU-controlled powers will be transferred to the devolved administration after December 31. She added: “This will give the devolved administrations power over more issues than they have ever had before, without removing any of their current powers.”
Brexit: Trade deal with EU is ‘necessity’ says Michael Martin
On behalf of the committee, Mr Crawford warned any new structures would have to be given the go-ahead by the devolved governments because “trade-offs and balances are involved in making an internal market”. He said: “There is an onus on all four governments and legislatures across the UK to work constructively together to seek a solution to this complex and challenging issue. “This must be achieved through mutual trust and respect for the existing constitutional arrangements within the UK.
Mr Russell warned that Nicola Sturgeon's Government is considering legal action to challenge the plans


thedailyexpress--2020-08-14--Oh dear, Keir! Starmer CRISIS as dreary Labour poll results spark panic

Sir Keir does not believe Mr Leonard can turn the party around , sources say , after a YouGov poll found only 14 percent of people plan to vote Labour in next year ’ s Holyrood election .
The Labour leader reportedly cemented his opinions after a series of digital meetings with Scottish voters who said they didn ’ t know who Leonard was but heaped praise on First Minister Nicola Sturgeon .
A source told The Times : `` There is no animosity borne towards Richard , there is just no confidence in him.
” It comes after a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ approval rating of minus 27 and more than half ( 53 percent ) of Scots said they don ’ t have an opinion on the leader who has been at the helm of the Scottish Labour Party for three years .
Of those who do , 36 percent had a negative view , with just 8 percent favourable .
Mrs Sturgeon , by contrast , was viewed in a positive light by 66 percent , with just 30 percent seeing her in a negative one .
In a separate YouGov poll released last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ percent of Scots could not identify Mr Leonard .
A spokesman for Sir Keir dismissed the claims as `` nonsense '' and said : “ This past week Keir Starmer and the Scottish Labour Party have been 100 per cent focused on protecting the education and opportunities of young people . ''
The report told MSPs : “ In Nicola Sturgeon , Labour are facing a popular and highly effective politician who is capable of consistently elevating her party.
” Under Leonard ’ s leadership Scottish Labour came in fifth place at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its seven MPs at the December 2019 General Election .
Sir Keir has pledged to bring an end to years of bitter infighting and work with the Government when it is the right thing to do , while testing Boris Johnson ’ s arguments and challenging the failures .
The defeat of Rebecca Long-Bailey - an ally of the outgoing leader Jeremy Corbyn - and the election of Angela Rayner as Mr Starmer ’ s deputy , heralded the end of the party leadership ’ s embrace of a radical socialism that was @ @ @ @ @ @

Keir Starmer won’t ‘inspire the nation’ says Claire Fox
Sir Keir does not believe Mr Leonard can turn the party around, sources say, after a YouGov poll found only 14 percent of people plan to vote Labour in next year’s Holyrood election. The Labour leader reportedly cemented his opinions after a series of digital meetings with Scottish voters who said they didn’t know who Leonard was but heaped praise on First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.
Trending
A source told The Times: "There is no animosity borne towards Richard, there is just no confidence in him.” It comes after a YouGov poll found Mr Leonard has an approval rating of minus 27 and more than half (53 percent) of Scots said they don’t have an opinion on the leader who has been at the helm of the Scottish Labour Party for three years. Of those who do, 36 percent had a negative view, with just 8 percent favourable.
Keir Starmer is reportedly frustrated at the Scottish Labour leader
Sir Keir does not believe Mr Leonard can turn the party around, sources say
Mrs Sturgeon, by contrast, was viewed in a positive light by 66 percent, with just 30 percent seeing her in a negative one. In a separate YouGov poll released last month, it was revealed nearly 60 percent of Scots could not identify Mr Leonard. A spokesman for Sir Keir dismissed the claims as "nonsense" and said: “This past week Keir Starmer and the Scottish Labour Party have been 100 per cent focused on protecting the education and opportunities of young people." READ MORE: Richard Leonard furiously attacks John Swinney for exam fiasco
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Richard Leonard has an approval rating of minus 27
Nearly 60 percent of Scots could not identify Richard Leonard
Keir Starmer's spokesman dismissed the claims as 'nonsense'
The report told MSPs: “In Nicola Sturgeon, Labour are facing a popular and highly effective politician who is capable of consistently elevating her party.” Under Leonard’s leadership Scottish Labour came in fifth place at the European Parliament elections and lost six of its seven MPs at the December 2019 General Election.
Main reason for not sticking with Labour
Sir Keir has pledged to bring an end to years of bitter infighting and work with the Government when it is the right thing to do, while testing Boris Johnson’s arguments and challenging the failures. The defeat of Rebecca Long-Bailey - an ally of the outgoing leader Jeremy Corbyn - and the election of Angela Rayner as Mr Starmer’s deputy, heralded the end of the party leadership’s embrace of a radical socialism that was crushed in the December election.


thedailyexpress--2020-08-14--BBC presenter left red faced after he's forced to delete tweet shaming Tories

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Mr Goodall accused ministers of scrambling to erase messages on social media which criticised the SNP 's handling of the row about Scottish exam results .
The exam grades scandal has taken up much of Ms Sturgeon 's time this week .
And Scottish education secretary John Swinney managed to cling onto his job after attempts by MSPs to oust him .
Ministers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ system in the face of mounting pressure from pupils , parents and political opponents .
They eventually caved in to pressure , and agreed to restore original higher marks to tens of thousands of Scottish pupils who had their end-of-year results downgraded .
Seeking to divert attention away from her nationalist government , Ms Sturgeon took to Twitter to attempt to shame Tory ministers in Boris Johnson 's Cabinet .
The First Minister retweeted a tweet by Newsnight editor in which he said : `` Seems several Conservative MPs are now deleting their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their qualification crisis . ''

Nicola Sturgeon slammed by Ruth Davidson over John Swinney
Mr Goodall accused ministers of scrambling to erase messages on social media which criticised the SNP's handling of the row about Scottish exam results. The exam grades scandal has taken up much of Ms Sturgeon's time this week. And Scottish education secretary John Swinney managed to cling onto his job after attempts by MSPs to oust him.
Trending
Ministers had spent five days defending the exam system in the face of mounting pressure from pupils, parents and political opponents. They eventually caved in to pressure, and agreed to restore original higher marks to tens of thousands of Scottish pupils who had their end-of-year results downgraded. Seeking to divert attention away from her nationalist government, Ms Sturgeon took to Twitter to attempt to shame Tory ministers in Boris Johnson's Cabinet. The First Minister retweeted a tweet by Newsnight editor in which he said: "Seems several Conservative MPs are now deleting their retweets about the SNP's handling of their qualification crisis."
The BBC's Lewis Goodall deleted a tweet shaming the Tories
Scottish education secretary John Swinney almost lost his job over the row about exam results
Mr Goodall included a screenshot of an account that highlights deleted social media posts by MPs. But the journalist missed one crucial detail. The deleted tweet he was referring to was in fact a tweet by the Scottish Conservatives, which had been retweeted by MPs, making it appear as if the tweets had then been deleted by the politicians themselves. The deleted tweet from the Scottish Tories seems to have been erased because of a grammatical error. READ MORE: Brexiteers hail 'big win' in UK-US trade relationship as tariffs end
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Ms Sturgeon has been occupied by the exam results row all this week
Ms Sturgeon retweeted Lewis Goodall's tweet before it was deleted
On Friday Ms Sturgeon was forced to defend the independence of an academic appointed to carry out a review into the exam grades scandal. The Scottish Conservatives said the First Minister should consider removing Professor Mark Priestley over tweets he had sent in the past expressing support for the SNP. The Daily Record reported Prof Priestley tweeted that voting for a candidate dropped by the SNP for using anti-Semitic language could "perhaps" be "the lesser of two evils".
A-level results: Charlie Stayt quizzes Grant Shapps on system
The University of Stirling education professor was also reported to have said the clear message in many constituencies was "vote SNP or get a Tory". Asked about the professor at the daily coronavirus briefing on Thursday, Ms Sturgeon said her job is not to "interrogate" the political views of people appointed for such roles. She said: "Mark Priestley is a respected academic and I don't think anybody could credibly or reasonably doubt his credentials for this job, his experience, skills and aptitude.
Students in Scotland received their exam results this week


thedailyexpress--2020-08-14--Brexit LIVE: Expert exposes secret reason Brussels so tough on UK in talks - EU panicking

But both the 2025 Cooperation Agenda and the CAI are dependent on the satisfaction of a set of issues which include level playing field considerations - one of the major elements which has proved to be a huge stumbling block in trade talks between the EU and UK .
Naomi Smith is chief executive of non-partisan advocacy group Best for Britain , who are campaigning for a comprehensive UK-EU trade deal , told Politics.co.uk : The EU has made it clear that level playing field considerations , as well as other areas of contention such as fisheries policy , must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in any trade negotiations .
`` If it 's not prepared to budge for mighty China , it 's not likely to roll over for the UK , given that would create a low-cost competitor on its doorstep and undercut EU businesses .
`` But the Chinese deal also reveals something more deep-seated about the UK-EU negotiations .
There is , right now , a historic opportunity to build on our proximity to Europe , if we seize the same advantages that the Chinese are seeking .
`` This is why business leaders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been pushing the government to agree a comprehensive trade deal with the EU .
With economies reeling from the impact of covid , it has never been more important to maximise mutual economic benefits .
`` If China is prepared to contemplate significant change to its business practices in pursuit of closer EU links and a lucrative FTA , why on Earth is Britain threatening to chuck any chance of a comprehensive trade deal in the Channel ?
`` Brexit has been delivered .
We 're shuffling out of the EU .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ allies in Europe that China can only dream of .
They provide an opportunity to take Brexit and turn it into a showcase of how trade with the EU can best be done , starting with the level playing field .
`` Far from being something to fear , we should see it for what it is – a chance for British businesses to fight fairly in that massive market on our doorstep .
`` If we turn down that chance , we 're going to get to 2025 and find that our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enter the single market and competing for European business with the EU 's newest FTA partner : Beijing .
7.28pm update : Farmers call for reassurances from Government as December 31 looms British potato farmers say they need reassurance from the Government as the Brexit transition period deadline looms .
Growers are hoping to avoid a third bad year but so far have been hit with a heatwave and a nationwide lockdown .
Potato farmer of North Yorkshire said there needs to be a shift in the agricultural industry or prices of potatoes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ If you want to eat good wholesome food at the standards that British agriculture has achieved in the last 20 years , someone needs to pay for it .
“ If you ’ re not prepared to pay money for higher British standards , British agriculture will change dramatically , and probably for the worse.
” Fellow farmer Nigel Adams , who usually produces 7,500 tonnes of potatoes a year in the West Midlands , said he had almost forgotten about Brexit .
He said : `` We had forgotten about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other things to think about . ''
Scottish politicians have warned Boris Johnson against imposing a post-Brexit internal market between the devolved nations and the UK Government without their consent .
The Westminster Government wants to establish a new internal market between the four nations after December 31 , when the Brexit transition period comes to a close .
MSPs have warned “ every devolved power could be undermined ” by the proposals .
Giving evidence about the proposals on Wednesday , Scotland ’ s Constitution Secretary Mike Russell accused the Prime Minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anti-devolution policy ” .
5.18pm update : NI farmers call on Government to offer assurances on meat exports Farmers in Northern Ireland are demanding assurances from the Government that meat exports shipped from the province through Dublin Port to customers in Britain will qualify for `` unfettered access '' .
The Ulster Farmers ' Union ( UFU ) said up to half of red meat heading for the British market goies through this route .
The UK Government has said that goods from Northern Ireland will not face any barriers when entering the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the assurance does not extend to produce shipped via the Republic of Ireland .
UFU president Victor Chestnutt said : `` Produce is shipped through Dublin as it 's the only route that is feasible for meeting just-in-time requirements .
`` There are important outstanding questions as to how unfettered access to the UK internal market can be delivered via Dublin . ''
4.12pm update : 'Sad and pathetic ' to allow Brexit views to taint relationships - Daubney Former Brexit Party MEP Martin Daubney has said he finds it `` sad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their personal relationships to be tainted by the Leave/Remain debate .
He made the comments on Twitter in response to a poll which asked : `` Could you date someone who voted differently to you in the EU referendum ?
He tweeted : `` My missus is a Remainer and I was a Brexit Party MEP .
`` It ’ s just so sad , borderline pathetic , that people would allow politics to taint their private lives like this . ''
The EU should stop `` pampering '' Greece , Turkish Foreign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cavusoglu 's comments came ahead of an EU foreign ministers meeting to discuss a collision between Greek and Turkish vessels .
The warships were involved in a mild collision on Wednesday during a standoff in the eastern Mediterranean , in what a Greek defence source called an accident but Ankara described as a provocation .
A source said : `` It was an accident . ''
The European Union should reassess its relations with Turkey in light of a series of recent events , Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg said on Friday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the eastern Mediterranean .
Mr Schallenberg said : `` I have to say that Austria is very concerned about the dangerous and alarming situation which we believe could escalate .
`` Actions taken by certain states in the eastern Mediterranean ... should lead the European Union to re-evaluate its relations with Turkey . ''
He was speaking at a joint news conference with visiting U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo .
MSPs have warned plans for a post-Brexit internal market must not be imposed without consensus and agreement between the devolved nations and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to establish a new internal market between the four nations at the end of the transition period .
But the Scottish Government has warned `` every devolved power could be undermined '' by the proposals .
Holyrood 's Finance and Constitution Committee has been hearing evidence on the plans , and have written to UK Business Secretary Alok Sharma urging `` mutual trust and respect for the existing constitutional arrangements '' .
Responding to the Government 's white paper consultation , committee convener Bruce Crawford said new structures must not be imposed without @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and balances are involved in making an internal market '' .
A UK Government spokeswoman previously said the proposed internal market `` will ensure the free flow of goods and services across every part of the UK , while upholding the devolution settlement '' .
The EU is trying to keep its access to UK waters as stalling Brexit trade talks suggest a no deal scenario is likely - but some French fishermen sent a threat to the UK that they will come for British waters .
Before the UK left the bloc @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were allowed to dip into Britain 's marine wealth under the Common Fisheries Policy , angering many fishermen north of the English Channel .
France is one of many nations dependent on British fishing grounds .
Between 2012-2016 for example , France caught 120,000 tonnes of fish worth £171million , according to Marine Management Organisation figures .
In February , French President Emmanuel Macron promised he would `` fight '' for his country 's fishermen during Brexit trade talks .
But after the UK accused the EU of causing `` paralysis '' in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could be facing a no deal Brexit , in which they will almost certainly lose access to UK fishing grounds .
In a remarkable interview , one French fisherman warned they would flout the post-Brexit laws and come for UK waters .
11.18am update : Pound flat against US dollar and euro ahead of crunch Brexit talks Sterling is holding firm against the US dollar and euro at the moment .
The British currency was last flat $ 1.3067 and at 90.35 pence against the euro .
It has jumped nearly seven percent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ US dollar , almost exclusively on the back of the greenback weakening .
10.10am update : We 're in trouble !
Expert admits Ireland RIPPED OFF by EU with fishing deal 'WORSE than UK ' Ireland gets to keep an even smaller percentage of the fish caught in its waters than the UK does and must quit the EU before it finds itself on the margins of the continent , a former top diplomat has said .
Ray Bassett , former Irish ambassador to Canada , Jamaica and the Bahamas , issued his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ireland and the EU post Brexit .
Mr Bassett believes the time has come for a serious discussion about whether Ireland belongs in the European Union at all , questioning the benefits membership brings .
To illustrate his point , he wrote : `` The UK under current arrangements only takes around 40 percent of the total fish catches in its waters , a disappointing figure from a British point of view .
9.22am update : Boris Johnson to put Union flag on UK-funded Scottish projects after Brexit - row ERUPTS Boris Johnson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scotland which are paid for by the UK Government with a Union flag from next year after the country exits the Brexit transition period .
The European Union symbol has been used to indicate whether a road or bridge has been directly funded by Brussels but will be replaced with a Union flag .
The new Scottish Conservative leader , Douglas Ross , has backed the idea .
He said Tories in Scotland need to be “ unashamed of our investment in Scotland ” .
Senior SNP politicians accused Mr Johnson ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ order ” and is “ trying to force the union flag down people ’ s throats ” .
The Union flag is set to be used to symbolise when the UK central Government money has been spent on Scottish projects .
Although a portion of Scotland ’ s government money derives from an annual grant from London , the Union flag will not be used for Scottish government spending .
8.33am update : Here we go !
Brexit deal ready in WEEKS vows Frost as pressure heaped on Barnier Britain 's chief Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Michel Barnier a tough timeline on trade talks , saying he wants a deal between the UK and the bloc to be reached by next month .
Mr Frost 's warning that the UK 's patience is running out will serve as a major wake-up call to Mr Barnier who has so far remained stubborn on key issues .
It remains to be seen if he will relent during next week 's round of post-Brexit trade meetings in Brussels .
Despite the lack of progress , Mr Frost insisted he was `` looking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talks with his European counterpart .
Mr Frost tweeted : `` As always , we go in good faith to talk constructively about all the issues .
`` Our assessment is that agreement can be reached in September and we will work to achieve this if we can . ''
He went on to repeat Britain 's assertion that it is not seeking an unfair trade pact with the bloc .
8.21am update : Trade border down Irish Sea 'over my dead body ' - Boris Johnson The Prime Minister has warned there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Irish Sea `` over my dead body '' following Brexit .
Northern Irish business leaders are worried red tape on goods crossing from Great Britain could make some trade unviable .
But during his visit to the country on Thursday , Mr Johnson reiterated his promise that businesses in the region would enjoy unfettered access to markets in England , Scotland and Wales .
He said : `` There will be no border down the Irish Sea - over my dead body . ''
The Prime Minister agreed to `` intensify '' partnership @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adding more work could be done on bilateral deals .
7.56am update : Boris Johnson warns UK will not stand down on level playing-field commitments The Prime Minister told Micheal Martin the UK is determined to reach a post-Brexit trade deal with the EU .
But he warned the UK will not relent on the issue of level playing-field commitments .
A spokesman for Mr Johnson said following the meeting in Northern Ireland with the Taoiseach : `` He underlined that the UK was not willing to make level playing-field commitments that went @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trade Agreement , such as the EU 's agreement with Canada . ''
7.45am update : Ireland 's Taoiseach urges Boris Johnson to agree trade deal with the EU Micheal Martin has urged the UK to agree a post-Brexit free trade agreement qwith the EU to avoid another potential hammeblow to the economy following the coronavirus crisis .
He said : `` I think where there 's a will , there 's a way .
`` It seems to me that there is a landing zone if that will is there on both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the European Union side and on the British side to find that landing zone .
`` My own gut instinct is we both understand that we do n't need another shock to the economic system that a no-deal Brexit would give or a sub-optimal trade agreement would give to our respective economies across Europe , Ireland and of course within Great Britain itself alongside the enormous shock that Covid has already given . ''
Mr Martin added he is hopeful for a `` productive outcome '' when Brexit negotiations resume between the @ @ @ @ @

Brexit: Trade deal with EU is ‘necessity’ says Michael Martin
China and the EU have been locked in talks since 2013, when efforts began to produce an investment agreement which would deliver predictable, long-term mutual access to both markets. There have so far been 31 negotiating rounds, including one earlier this month. The Comprehensive Agreement on Investment (CAI) - the EU being treated in China the way Chinese businesses are treated in the EU - is currently one of the core topics of discussion. Beijing also wants to agree a 2025 Cooperation Agenda with the EU, which could reset Sino-European relations in areas ranging from climate control and energy security to science and technology.
Trending
But both the 2025 Cooperation Agenda and the CAI are dependent on the satisfaction of a set of issues which include level playing field considerations - one of the major elements which has proved to be a huge stumbling block in trade talks between the EU and UK. Naomi Smith is chief executive of non-partisan advocacy group Best for Britain, who are campaigning for a comprehensive UK-EU trade deal, told Politics.co.uk: The EU has made it clear that level playing field considerations, as well as other areas of contention such as fisheries policy, must be addressed as a matter of priority in any trade negotiations. "If it's not prepared to budge for mighty China, it's not likely to roll over for the UK, given that would create a low-cost competitor on its doorstep and undercut EU businesses. "But the Chinese deal also reveals something more deep-seated about the UK-EU negotiations. There is, right now, a historic opportunity to build on our proximity to Europe, if we seize the same advantages that the Chinese are seeking.
Brexit latest: The EU is looking to replicate the tough stance it has taken with China
"This is why business leaders and organisations such as Best for Britain have been pushing the government to agree a comprehensive trade deal with the EU. With economies reeling from the impact of covid, it has never been more important to maximise mutual economic benefits. "If China is prepared to contemplate significant change to its business practices in pursuit of closer EU links and a lucrative FTA, why on Earth is Britain threatening to chuck any chance of a comprehensive trade deal in the Channel? "Brexit has been delivered. We're shuffling out of the EU. But we have links, knowledge and allies in Europe that China can only dream of. They provide an opportunity to take Brexit and turn it into a showcase of how trade with the EU can best be done, starting with the level playing field. "Far from being something to fear, we should see it for what it is – a chance for British businesses to fight fairly in that massive market on our doorstep. "If we turn down that chance, we're going to get to 2025 and find that our businesses are lumbered with crippling costs to enter the single market and competing for European business with the EU's newest FTA partner: Beijing. FOLLOW EXPRESS.CO.UK FOR LIVE UPDATES:
Brexit latest: Micheal Martin and Boris Johnson discussed a potential trade deal with the EU
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8.55pm update: Next round of Brexit talks will be nothing but 'shadow boxing' Sources in the EU have said next week's post-Brexit trade talks in Brussels will be a round of "shadow boxing". A source told the Telegraph: “Both sides have moved closer together but we see this round as laying the foundations for future breakthroughs. “Imagine two fencers sizing each other out or two fighters shadow-boxing before the real engagement begins.”
Boris Johnson pictured this week as his team of Brexit negotiators prepare for talks next week
7.28pm update: Farmers call for reassurances from Government as December 31 looms British potato farmers say they need reassurance from the Government as the Brexit transition period deadline looms. Growers are hoping to avoid a third bad year but so far have been hit with a heatwave and a nationwide lockdown. Potato farmer of North Yorkshire said there needs to be a shift in the agricultural industry or prices of potatoes will hike. He told the Guardian: “If you want to eat good wholesome food at the standards that British agriculture has achieved in the last 20 years, someone needs to pay for it. “If you’re not prepared to pay money for higher British standards, British agriculture will change dramatically, and probably for the worse.” Fellow farmer Nigel Adams, who usually produces 7,500 tonnes of potatoes a year in the West Midlands, said he had almost forgotten about Brexit. He said: "We had forgotten about it, there have been so many other things to think about." 6.21pm update: Scotland brutally lashes out at Boris Johnson’s Brexit plan - ‘Needs a consensus!’ Scottish politicians have warned Boris Johnson against imposing a post-Brexit internal market between the devolved nations and the UK Government without their consent. The Westminster Government wants to establish a new internal market between the four nations after December 31, when the Brexit transition period comes to a close. MSPs have warned “every devolved power could be undermined” by the proposals. Giving evidence about the proposals on Wednesday, Scotland’s Constitution Secretary Mike Russell accused the Prime Minister of “running a clear and deliberate anti-devolution policy”. 5.18pm update: NI farmers call on Government to offer assurances on meat exports Farmers in Northern Ireland are demanding assurances from the Government that meat exports shipped from the province through Dublin Port to customers in Britain will qualify for "unfettered access". The Ulster Farmers' Union (UFU) said up to half of red meat heading for the British market goies through this route. The UK Government has said that goods from Northern Ireland will not face any barriers when entering the market in Britain. But the UFU said the assurance does not extend to produce shipped via the Republic of Ireland. UFU president Victor Chestnutt said: "Produce is shipped through Dublin as it's the only route that is feasible for meeting just-in-time requirements. "There are important outstanding questions as to how unfettered access to the UK internal market can be delivered via Dublin." 4.12pm update: 'Sad and pathetic' to allow Brexit views to taint relationships - Daubney Former Brexit Party MEP Martin Daubney has said he finds it "sad and borderline pathetic" when people allow their personal relationships to be tainted by the Leave/Remain debate. He made the comments on Twitter in response to a poll which asked: "Could you date someone who voted differently to you in the EU referendum? He tweeted: "My missus is a Remainer and I was a Brexit Party MEP. "It’s just so sad, borderline pathetic, that people would allow politics to taint their private lives like this."
3.04pm update: EU must stop 'pampering' Greece, says Turkey
The EU should stop "pampering" Greece, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has said. Mr Cavusoglu's comments came ahead of an EU foreign ministers meeting to discuss a collision between Greek and Turkish vessels. The warships were involved in a mild collision on Wednesday during a standoff in the eastern Mediterranean, in what a Greek defence source called an accident but Ankara described as a provocation. A source said: "It was an accident." 2.15pm update: EU should reassess ties with Turkey - Austrian foreign minister The European Union should reassess its relations with Turkey in light of a series of recent events, Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg said on Friday, citing special concern about the situation in the eastern Mediterranean. Mr Schallenberg said: "I have to say that Austria is very concerned about the dangerous and alarming situation which we believe could escalate. "Actions taken by certain states in the eastern Mediterranean ... should lead the European Union to re-evaluate its relations with Turkey." He was speaking at a joint news conference with visiting U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. 1.12pm update: Scottish ministers in warning over post-Brexit internal market MSPs have warned plans for a post-Brexit internal market must not be imposed without consensus and agreement between the devolved nations and the UK Government. Westminster is hoping to establish a new internal market between the four nations at the end of the transition period. But the Scottish Government has warned "every devolved power could be undermined" by the proposals. Holyrood's Finance and Constitution Committee has been hearing evidence on the plans, and have written to UK Business Secretary Alok Sharma urging "mutual trust and respect for the existing constitutional arrangements". Responding to the Government's white paper consultation, committee convener Bruce Crawford said new structures must not be imposed without devolved Governments' agreement because "trade-offs and balances are involved in making an internal market". A UK Government spokeswoman previously said the proposed internal market "will ensure the free flow of goods and services across every part of the UK, while upholding the devolution settlement".
Brexit latest: Trade talks between the UK and EU will resume on Monday in Brussels
12.15pm update: EU fisheries row - French fishermen warn 'we’re coming for your fish' post-Brexit The EU is trying to keep its access to UK waters as stalling Brexit trade talks suggest a no deal scenario is likely - but some French fishermen sent a threat to the UK that they will come for British waters. Before the UK left the bloc on January 31, EU member states were allowed to dip into Britain's marine wealth under the Common Fisheries Policy, angering many fishermen north of the English Channel. France is one of many nations dependent on British fishing grounds. Between 2012-2016 for example, France caught 120,000 tonnes of fish worth £171million, according to Marine Management Organisation figures. In February, French President Emmanuel Macron promised he would "fight" for his country's fishermen during Brexit trade talks. But after the UK accused the EU of causing "paralysis" in Brexit trade talks, Europe's fishermen could be facing a no deal Brexit, in which they will almost certainly lose access to UK fishing grounds. In a remarkable interview, one French fisherman warned they would flout the post-Brexit laws and come for UK waters. 11.18am update: Pound flat against US dollar and euro ahead of crunch Brexit talks Sterling is holding firm against the US dollar and euro at the moment. The British currency was last flat $1.3067 and at 90.35 pence against the euro. It has jumped nearly seven percent over the last three months against the US dollar, almost exclusively on the back of the greenback weakening.
Brexit latest: Emmanuel Macron promised he would "fight" for his country's fishermen during trade talks
10.10am update: We're in trouble! Expert admits Ireland RIPPED OFF by EU with fishing deal 'WORSE than UK' Ireland gets to keep an even smaller percentage of the fish caught in its waters than the UK does and must quit the EU before it finds itself on the margins of the continent, a former top diplomat has said. Ray Bassett, former Irish ambassador to Canada, Jamaica and the Bahamas, issued his stark warning in his new book, Ireland and the EU post Brexit. Mr Bassett believes the time has come for a serious discussion about whether Ireland belongs in the European Union at all, questioning the benefits membership brings. To illustrate his point, he wrote: "The UK under current arrangements only takes around 40 percent of the total fish catches in its waters, a disappointing figure from a British point of view. 9.22am update: Boris Johnson to put Union flag on UK-funded Scottish projects after Brexit - row ERUPTS Boris Johnson is set to stamp key schemes in Scotland which are paid for by the UK Government with a Union flag from next year after the country exits the Brexit transition period. The European Union symbol has been used to indicate whether a road or bridge has been directly funded by Brussels but will be replaced with a Union flag. The new Scottish Conservative leader, Douglas Ross, has backed the idea. He said Tories in Scotland need to be “unashamed of our investment in Scotland”. Senior SNP politicians accused Mr Johnson’s Government of “posturing of the worst order” and is “trying to force the union flag down people’s throats”. The Union flag is set to be used to symbolise when the UK central Government money has been spent on Scottish projects. Although a portion of Scotland’s government money derives from an annual grant from London, the Union flag will not be used for Scottish government spending.
Brexit latest: David Frost sent a warning to the EU ahead of next week's talks in Brussels
8.33am update: Here we go! Brexit deal ready in WEEKS vows Frost as pressure heaped on Barnier Britain's chief Brexit negotiator David Frost has issued EU counterpart Michel Barnier a tough timeline on trade talks, saying he wants a deal between the UK and the bloc to be reached by next month. Mr Frost's warning that the UK's patience is running out will serve as a major wake-up call to Mr Barnier who has so far remained stubborn on key issues. It remains to be seen if he will relent during next week's round of post-Brexit trade meetings in Brussels. Despite the lack of progress, Mr Frost insisted he was "looking forward" to the seventh round of talks with his European counterpart. Mr Frost tweeted: "As always, we go in good faith to talk constructively about all the issues. "Our assessment is that agreement can be reached in September and we will work to achieve this if we can." He went on to repeat Britain's assertion that it is not seeking an unfair trade pact with the bloc. 8.21am update: Trade border down Irish Sea 'over my dead body' - Boris Johnson The Prime Minister has warned there will be a trade border down the Irish Sea "over my dead body" following Brexit. Northern Irish business leaders are worried red tape on goods crossing from Great Britain could make some trade unviable. But during his visit to the country on Thursday, Mr Johnson reiterated his promise that businesses in the region would enjoy unfettered access to markets in England, Scotland and Wales. He said: "There will be no border down the Irish Sea - over my dead body." The Prime Minister agreed to "intensify" partnership arrangements with the Republic of Ireland, adding more work could be done on bilateral deals.
Brexit latest: Negotiations on the EU-UK future partnership


thedailyexpress--2020-08-15--'Scotland would be bankrupt!' Sturgeon savaged as SNP given credit for Boris policies

A YouGov poll of 1,142 Scottish adults from August 6-10 found SNP ministers were given positive feedback for protecting millions of jobs in Scotland and the country 's economy - despite some of the measures coming from the Treasury .
In the poll , nearly half of Scots ( 49 percent ) said Nicola Sturgeon 's Government north of the border had performed well in protecting jobs , while 29 percent said it had done badly .
Half of those quizzed ( 50 percent ) were positive about the work done to protect the Scottish economy during the coronavirus pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 31 percent ) who had a negative view .
Treasury figures have shown 155,000 people in Scotland have been supported by the furlough scheme , which was designed and implemented by Chancellor Rishi Sunak .
The massive scheme , costing tens of billions of pounds , initially 80 percent of salaries to help employers avoid making workers redundant .
But while Ms Sturgeon 's Government have the powers to change business rates and income tax , key decisions made on VAT , National Insurance and tax allowances are still made by Westminster @ @ @ @ @ @ @ peer in the House of Lords , has accused Ms Sturgeon of taking the credit by spending money the UK Government in Scotland , and claimed the country would have been `` bankrupt '' without those vital funds .
Digby Jones wrote on Twitter : `` So 49 % of Scots think that La Suprema Sturgeon has 'done well in protecting jobs in Scotland ' .
`` Amazing what you can achieve when , as all good Socialists do , you spend other people ’ s money then take the credit .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s England ’ s money you ’ ve been spending & that Scotland would have been bankrupt months ago without England ’ s support .
`` How does that fit with an independent Scotland Nicola ?
READ MORE : Coronavirus map LIVE : 'Local lockdowns ' could be BANNED '' I ’ d stick to sorting out A-level results if I were you ; ah !
you ’ re bad at that as well ! ''
This comes as a YouGov poll of 1,142 Scottish adults from August 6-10 revealed support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to campaign for - is continuing to grow in the country .
`` Yes '' is on 53 percent and `` No '' is on 47 percent - the largest lead of any YouGov poll on the matter .
This is driven by 30 percent of those who voted `` No '' last time and then Remain in the 2016 Scottish independence referendum , now saying they would vote `` Yes '' .
DO N'T MISS Scotland business warning as firms could take years to recover [ COMMENT ] Scotland lockdown : Sturgeon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures [ VIDEO ] Nicola Sturgeon told to resign after embarrassing U-turn [ POLL ] In another YouGov poll , SNP voters demanded English tourists be banned from crossing the border to Scotland , as coronavirus travel and quarantine rules continue to be tightened .
The poll of 1,134 Scottish people found more than half ( 54 percent ) of SNP voters do n't want English tourists to be able to cross the border .
This compares with just over a third ( 37 percent ) of Scottish Labour supporters and 19 percent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Conservatives in last December 's general election .

Nicola Sturgeon apology on results is 'not enough' says Ross
A YouGov poll of 1,142 Scottish adults from August 6-10 found SNP ministers were given positive feedback for protecting millions of jobs in Scotland and the country's economy - despite some of the measures coming from the Treasury. In the poll, nearly half of Scots (49 percent) said Nicola Sturgeon's Government north of the border had performed well in protecting jobs, while 29 percent said it had done badly. Half of those quizzed (50 percent) were positive about the work done to protect the Scottish economy during the coronavirus pandemic, compared to just under a third (31 percent) who had a negative view.
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Treasury figures have shown 155,000 people in Scotland have been supported by the furlough scheme, which was designed and implemented by Chancellor Rishi Sunak. The massive scheme, costing tens of billions of pounds, initially 80 percent of salaries to help employers avoid making workers redundant. But while Ms Sturgeon's Government have the powers to change business rates and income tax, key decisions made on VAT, National Insurance and tax allowances are still made by Westminster. Lord Digby Jones, a crossbench peer in the House of Lords, has accused Ms Sturgeon of taking the credit by spending money the UK Government in Scotland, and claimed the country would have been "bankrupt" without those vital funds.
Nicola Sturgeon has been savaged after the SNP received credit for Boris Johnson's policies
SNP ministers received praise in a new poll for protecting millions of jobs in Scotland during the coronavirus crisis
Digby Jones wrote on Twitter: "So 49% of Scots think that La Suprema Sturgeon has 'done well in protecting jobs in Scotland'. "Amazing what you can achieve when, as all good Socialists do, you spend other people’s money then take the credit. "Go on Nicola: tell ‘em it’s England’s money you’ve been spending & that Scotland would have been bankrupt months ago without England’s support. "How does that fit with an independent Scotland Nicola? READ MORE: Coronavirus map LIVE: 'Local lockdowns' could be BANNED
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Lord Digby Jones unleashed a furious attack on Nicola Sturgeon
"I’d stick to sorting out A-level results if I were you; ah! you’re bad at that as well!" This comes as a YouGov poll of 1,142 Scottish adults from August 6-10 revealed support for independence - something Ms Sturgeon continues to campaign for - is continuing to grow in the country. "Yes" is on 53 percent and "No" is on 47 percent - the largest lead of any YouGov poll on the matter. This is driven by 30 percent of those who voted "No" last time and then Remain in the 2016 Scottish independence referendum, now saying they would vote "Yes". DON'T MISS
Scotland business warning as firms could take years to recover [COMMENT]
Scotland lockdown: Sturgeon 'will not hesitate' to impose new measures [VIDEO]
Nicola Sturgeon told to resign after embarrassing U-turn [POLL]
The furlough scheme, designed and implemented by Rishi Sunak, has supported 155,000 people in Scotland
Support for Scottish independence is growing, according to a new poll
In another YouGov poll, SNP voters demanded English tourists be banned from crossing the border to Scotland, as coronavirus travel and quarantine rules continue to be tightened. The poll of 1,134 Scottish people found more than half (54 percent) of SNP voters don't want English tourists to be able to cross the border. This compares with just over a third (37 percent) of Scottish Labour supporters and 19 percent of those who voted for the Scottish Conservatives in last December's general election.
The UK has reported more than 316,000 coronavirus infections


thedailyexpress--2020-08-15--Money for nothing! House of Lords peers paid thousands... and don't even bother voting

The average life peer claimed £20,935 ( including travel expenses ) between April 2019 and February 2020 but only contributed to 12 debates , produced seven written questions and voted just 23 times .
The research from the New Statesman magazine found : `` 140 eligible peers took part in no debates in from April 2019-Feb 2020 .
Neither could they reasonably claim to have participated by listening and voting rather than speaking : on average , those 140 peers voted ten times out of a possible 51 .
`` For 48 of the 140 , there is no record @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 120 out of nearly 800 voted five times or fewer in this time period.
” Three life peers claimed more than £29,000 in attendance fees and travel expenses for attending no debates , sitting on no committees and voting in less than half the listed divisions in that period , despite signing in for more than 90 days Hereditary peer claimed on average £20,604 ( including travel expenses ) for speaking in an average of ten or fewer debates over the 113-day period between April 2019 and February 2020 , submitted six or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ times out of the 51 possible votes.
” The Institute for Government has said the cost of running the House of Lords surged from £99million in 2017-18 to £117.4million in 2018-19 .
A large part of this increase has been attributed to a 27 percent rise in peers ' allowances to £23.4million , predominantly because of the House sitting on more days .
The Electoral Reform Society ( ERF ) , an independent campaigning organisation working to champion the rights of voters , has seen nearly 400,000 people sign its petition to replace @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jump from 170,000 at the end of July .
Darren Hughes , Chief Executive of the ERF , said the House of Lords is `` sinking with dead weight and zero accountability '' , and called for the current `` expenses free-for-all '' to be replaced .
He also warned there are a `` worrying number of couch-potato peers and lobby-fodder Lords '' at a time when there are several important issues to scrutinise , adding `` voters deserve a revising chamber that is fit for purpose '' .
Mr Hughes said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Britain ’ s unelected house – and that ’ s no surprise when voters can not kick out those who are failing them .
Despite many peers working hard , our supposed revising chamber is sinking with dead weight , and zero accountability .
“ These figures suggest the problem of `` silent peers '' is only getting worse .
Britain ’ s super-sized second chamber needs to be made far leaner , with dedicated scrutineers replacing the current expenses free-for-all .
“ There are a worrying number of couch-potato peers and lobby-fodder @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is plenty to scrutinise – ostensibly the upper chamber ’ s role .
The time for piecemeal reform is long over .
Voters deserve a revising chamber that is fit for purpose .
“ Let ’ s move to a slimmed-down , PR-elected chamber for the nations and regions – and finally get this house in order.
” Peers can claim a flat rate of £323 a day , and a further £8,967 in travel expenses to get to and from the House of Lords .
Alan Haworth , a Labour life peer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2019 , attempted to defended the role of peers in the upper house .

House of Lords ‘more democratic’ than Commons says Bennett
The average life peer claimed £20,935 (including travel expenses) between April 2019 and February 2020 but only contributed to 12 debates, produced seven written questions and voted just 23 times. The research from the New Statesman magazine found: "140 eligible peers took part in no debates in from April 2019-Feb 2020. Neither could they reasonably claim to have participated by listening and voting rather than speaking: on average, those 140 peers voted ten times out of a possible 51.
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"For 48 of the 140, there is no record of them voting at all. "120 out of nearly 800 voted five times or fewer in this time period.” Three life peers claimed more than £29,000 in attendance fees and travel expenses for attending no debates, sitting on no committees and voting in less than half the listed divisions in that period, despite signing in for more than 90 days Hereditary peer claimed on average £20,604 (including travel expenses) for speaking in an average of ten or fewer debates over the 113-day period between April 2019 and February 2020, submitted six or fewer written questions, and voted 22 times out of the 51 possible votes.”
House of Lords receive thousands but rarely vote, a shocking new report has revealed
The number of peers in the House of Lords has also been criticised
The Institute for Government has said the cost of running the House of Lords surged from £99million in 2017-18 to £117.4million in 2018-19. A large part of this increase has been attributed to a 27 percent rise in peers' allowances to £23.4million, predominantly because of the House sitting on more days. The Electoral Reform Society (ERF), an independent campaigning organisation working to champion the rights of voters, has seen nearly 400,000 people sign its petition to replace the House of Lords - a huge jump from 170,000 at the end of July. Darren Hughes, Chief Executive of the ERF, said the House of Lords is "sinking with dead weight and zero accountability", and called for the current "expenses free-for-all" to be replaced.
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House of Lords peers have come under fire for the amount they receive in expenses
He also warned there are a "worrying number of couch-potato peers and lobby-fodder Lords" at a time when there are several important issues to scrutinise, adding "voters deserve a revising chamber that is fit for purpose". Mr Hughes said: “There is a something-for-nothing culture in Britain’s unelected house – and that’s no surprise when voters cannot kick out those who are failing them. Despite many peers working hard, our supposed revising chamber is sinking with dead weight, and zero accountability. “These figures suggest the problem of "silent peers" is only getting worse. Britain’s super-sized second chamber needs to be made far leaner, with dedicated scrutineers replacing the current expenses free-for-all. “There are a worrying number of couch-potato peers and lobby-fodder Lords – at a time when there is plenty to scrutinise – ostensibly the upper chamber’s role. The time for piecemeal reform is long over. Voters deserve a revising chamber that is fit for purpose.
The analysis found peers contributed to just a handful of debates
The House of Lords has come in for heavy criticism over recent months
“Let’s move to a slimmed-down, PR-elected chamber for the nations and regions – and finally get this house in order.” Peers can claim a flat rate of £323 a day, and a further £8,967 in travel expenses to get to and from the House of Lords. Alan Haworth, a Labour life peer who served on a joint bill committee in 2019, attempted to defended the role of peers in the upper house.