thedailyexpress--2020-05-30--Furlough rules: How job retention scheme will be wound down

The Cabinet minister said a “ collective effort to reopen the country ” has begun now lockdown restrictions are easing .
Businesses face bills for furloughing staff for the first time from August .
Mr Sunak set out a sliding scale that starts with “ modest ” changes making employers cover pensions and national insurance contributions .
As the job retention scheme is wound down , they will start to pay some of the wage bill , hitting 20 percent of the cost in the month before it closes .
Extra help is also being given to the self-employed but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ As Britain returns to work we need to adapt the emergency programmes we put in place to bridge through the crisis , ” Mr Sunak said .
`` Our thoughts , our energies , our resources must turn to looking forward to planning for the recovery and we will need the dynamism of our whole economy as we fight our way back to prosperity .
`` Not everything will look the same as before .
It wo n't be the case that we can simply put the key in the lock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world as it was in January .
`` We will develop new measures to grow the economy , to back business , to boost skills and to help people thrive in the new post-Covid world .
`` Today , a new national collective effort begins to reopen our country and kick-start our economy . ''
Mr Sunak laid out the changes at the Downing Street daily coronavirus briefing where he updated the country on the latest figures on the death toll from the virus .
He said 38,161 people had died in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ community by 5pm on Thursday , up by 324 from the day before .
The Chancellor said the figures showed the UK is “ past the peak ” of the virus and the country will now have to adapt .
He said there is broad consensus across the political and economic spectrum that the furlough scheme “ can not continue indefinitely '' .
“ I believe it is right in the final phase of this eight month scheme to ask employers to contribute alongside the taxpayer towards the wages of their staff , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he understood the concerns of business so was asking them to pay “ only a modest contribution introduced slowly ” over the coming months .
He said the scheme was one of the “ most generous ” in the world and had been set up to save as many jobs as possible .
But he warned that it will not be extended again once it closes in the autumn .
Around 8.4 million workers from one million firms are being paid through the government ’ s job retention scheme .
But it has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wants employers to shoulder some of the burden .
Under the new furlough rules , all employees unable to return to work will still receive 80 percent of their salaries up to £2,500 a month but employers will begin to pick up some of the bill .
From August , businesses will pay their national insurance and pensions contributions and the following month they will cover 10 percent of wages as well .
In October they will be expected to pay 20 percent and the scheme will close at the end of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from July , a month earlier than planned but businesses will not be able to add new staff to the scheme from that point .
Mr Sunak made a surprise announcement setting out fresh help for self-employed workers .
A final grant worth 70 percent of their average monthly trading profits capped at £6,570 will be available .
The first Self-Employment Income Support Scheme ( SEISS ) grant was worth up to 80 percent of average trading profits capped at £7,500 , to cover three months of lost income .
Employers have warned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ changes to the support are made , particularly if their businesses can not reopen by the time the taps are turned off .
The Treasury said sectors that are particularly badly hit , such as hospitality , are benefitting from other measures , such as business rates being written off for the year as well as government guaranteed loans .
Mike Cherry , national chairman of the Federation of Small Businesses , said the announcement would give small business owners the “ certainty they need to plan for the next few months .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the adaptability they ’ ll require as businesses adjust to a new normal , and bringing forward the flexible furlough launch date , the government is giving hope to small firms right across the UK .
Delivery is now key , and new operational systems should be as streamlined as possible .
TUC General Secretary Frances O ’ Grady said : “ We ’ re glad the chancellor has listened to unions and allowed employers to start using short-time furlough from July .
“ This will help employers gradually and safely bring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and support the economy to recover.
” Philippa Childs , head of Bectu , the UK 's media and entertainment union , warned the changes to the furlough scheme will lead to redundancies in the theatre , film and television .
“ The changes to the job retention scheme will lead to mass redundancies in theatre , film and TV , as many employers won ’ t be prepared to contribute for someone who won ’ t work for them again in the near future or they simply can ’ t afford the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ McNamara , General Secretary of Licensed Taxi Drivers Association , said : “ The extension to the furlough scheme for the self employed is much needed and fantastic news for cabbies across the country.
” Brian Berry , chief executive of the Federation of Master Builders , said : “ We strongly welcome the extension of the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme , which means construction tradespeople will not face a cliff-edge in terms of support .
This is essential for those who are not yet able to return to work.
” British Chambers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ The Chancellor has listened to business communities and struck a careful balance that will help many firms bring furloughed staff back to work flexibly over the coming months .
“ The gradual reduction in furlough contributions from the Treasury will give businesses additional time to rebuild their income streams and cash flows , and the decision to give businesses maximum flexibility to bring people back part-time will be appreciated.
” Changes to furlough and self-employed support schemes : July - Furloughed staff can begin to work part time to allow employers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but no new applications to the scheme will be allowed .
August - Businesses will have to cover employer national insurance and pension contributions but the government will continue to pay 80 percent of wages capped at £2,500 a month .
Applications will open for self-employed workers worth 70 percent of their average monthly trading profits .
It will cover three month capped at £6,570 and be paid out in a single instalment .
September - Firms will begin to pay 10 percent towards the salaries of their furloughed employees as the government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ October - Employers will have to cover 20 percent of the wage bill with the government contribution dropping to 60 percent before the scheme finishes at the end of the month .
The Government ’ s support throughout the lockdown so far has been a lifeline for businesses , employees and the self-employed .
The changes announced by the Chancellor will help ensure those schemes stay effective as we begin a cautious recovery .
We can not overstate the importance of these support schemes over recent months .
Just look at the US @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with more than 40 million new benefit claims since the start of the crisis .
The sheer scale of what ’ s been achieved by the Job Retention scheme in particular is unprecedented .
Around 8.4 million workers have been covered , 1 million businesses involved , and in total around £15 billion has been claimed .
The scheme has helped your local hairdressers , pub , even zoos keep going during lockdown – it ’ s a scheme helping everyone from your High Street to the Square Mile .
This is why @ @ @ @ @ @ @ months it must be done carefully .
From July , firms will have the capability to furlough staff on a part-time basis .
This will be a great help as there may not yet be enough demand for some furloughed workers to return full-time .
The Government will top that up to a maximum of £2500 as before .
From August onwards , employers will gradually pay more of the costs each month but employees will still see the full benefit .
What this means is business pays its part and we protect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We firmly believe that business wants to put its shoulder to the wheel and help their employees and customers through these tough times .
All schemes must be kept under regular review to help minimise the impact of COVID-19 on people ’ s livelihoods and keep businesses thriving .
Many viable businesses may not be able to open until later , particularly in leisure , hospitality and the creative industries , so may yet need further assistance in the coming months .
Some businesses and jobs will go - but the more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have saved thousands , the easier it will be for the economy to recover .

Chancellor Rishi Sunak laid out plans to ease the coronavirus burden on taxpayers
The Cabinet minister said a “collective effort to reopen the country” has begun now lockdown restrictions are easing. Businesses face bills for furloughing staff for the first time from August.
Mr Sunak set out a sliding scale that starts with “modest” changes making employers cover pensions and national insurance contributions. As the job retention scheme is wound down, they will start to pay some of the wage bill, hitting 20 percent of the cost in the month before it closes. Extra help is also being given to the self-employed but at a lower rate than payroll staff. “As Britain returns to work we need to adapt the emergency programmes we put in place to bridge through the crisis,” Mr Sunak said. "Our thoughts, our energies, our resources must turn to looking forward to planning for the recovery and we will need the dynamism of our whole economy as we fight our way back to prosperity. "Not everything will look the same as before. It won't be the case that we can simply put the key in the lock, open the door and step into the world as it was in January. "We will develop new measures to grow the economy, to back business, to boost skills and to help people thrive in the new post-Covid world.
Extra help is also being given to the self-employed but at a lower rate than payroll staff
"Today, a new national collective effort begins to reopen our country and kick-start our economy." Mr Sunak laid out the changes at the Downing Street daily coronavirus briefing where he updated the country on the latest figures on the death toll from the virus. He said 38,161 people had died in hospitals, care homes and the wider community by 5pm on Thursday, up by 324 from the day before. The Chancellor said the figures showed the UK is “past the peak” of the virus and the country will now have to adapt. He said there is broad consensus across the political and economic spectrum that the furlough scheme “cannot continue indefinitely". “I believe it is right in the final phase of this eight month scheme to ask employers to contribute alongside the taxpayer towards the wages of their staff,” he said. The Chancellor insisted he understood the concerns of business so was asking them to pay “only a modest contribution introduced slowly” over the coming months. He said the scheme was one of the “most generous” in the world and had been set up to save as many jobs as possible.
The Chancellor said the country will now have to adapt
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But he warned that it will not be extended again once it closes in the autumn. Around 8.4 million workers from one million firms are being paid through the government’s job retention scheme. But it has already cost £15 billion and the government wants employers to shoulder some of the burden. Under the new furlough rules, all employees unable to return to work will still receive 80 percent of their salaries up to £2,500 a month but employers will begin to pick up some of the bill. From August, businesses will pay their national insurance and pensions contributions and the following month they will cover 10 percent of wages as well. In October they will be expected to pay 20 percent and the scheme will close at the end of the month. Workers can return part time from July, a month earlier than planned but businesses will not be able to add new staff to the scheme from that point. Mr Sunak made a surprise announcement setting out fresh help for self-employed workers. A final grant worth 70 percent of their average monthly trading profits capped at £6,570 will be available.
Mr Sunak laid out the changes at the Downing Street daily coronavirus briefing
The first Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) grant was worth up to 80 percent of average trading profits capped at £7,500, to cover three months of lost income. Employers have warned they will have to make redundancies once changes to the support are made, particularly if their businesses cannot reopen by the time the taps are turned off. The Treasury said sectors that are particularly badly hit, such as hospitality, are benefitting from other measures, such as business rates being written off for the year as well as government guaranteed loans. Mike Cherry, national chairman of the Federation of Small Businesses, said the announcement would give small business owners the“certainty they need to plan for the next few months. He added: “By providing employers with the adaptability they’ll require as businesses adjust to a new normal, and bringing forward the flexible furlough launch date, the government is giving hope to small firms right across the UK. Delivery is now key, and new operational systems should be as streamlined as possible. TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady said: “We’re glad the chancellor has listened to unions and allowed employers to start using short-time furlough from July. “This will help employers gradually and safely bring people back to work, protect jobs and support the economy to recover.”
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Philippa Childs, head of Bectu, the UK's media and entertainment union, warned the changes to the furlough scheme will lead to redundancies in the theatre, film and television. “The changes to the job retention scheme will lead to mass redundancies in theatre, film and TV, as many employers won’t be prepared to contribute for someone who won’t work for them again in the near future or they simply can’t afford the contributions,” she said. Steve McNamara, General Secretary of Licensed Taxi Drivers Association, said: “The extension to the furlough scheme for the self employed is much needed and fantastic news for cabbies across the country.” Brian Berry, chief executive of the Federation of Master Builders, said: “We strongly welcome the extension of the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme, which means construction tradespeople will not face a cliff-edge in terms of support. This is essential for those who are not yet able to return to work.” British Chambers of Commerce director general Adam Marshall said: “The Chancellor has listened to business communities and struck a careful balance that will help many firms bring furloughed staff back to work flexibly over the coming months. “The gradual reduction in furlough contributions from the Treasury will give businesses additional time to rebuild their income streams and cash flows, and the decision to give businesses maximum flexibility to bring people back part-time will be appreciated.”
The Treasury said sectors that are particularly badly hit, such as hospitality, are benefitting from other measures
Changes to furlough and self-employed support schemes: July - Furloughed staff can begin to work part time to allow employers to phase back the return of staff but no new applications to the scheme will be allowed. August - Businesses will have to cover employer national insurance and pension contributions but the government will continue to pay 80 percent of wages capped at £2,500 a month. Applications will open for self-employed workers worth 70 percent of their average monthly trading profits. It will cover three month capped at £6,570 and be paid out in a single instalment. September - Firms will begin to pay 10 percent towards the salaries of their furloughed employees as the government reduces its contribution to 70 percent. October - Employers will have to cover 20 percent of the wage bill with the government contribution dropping to 60 percent before the scheme finishes at the end of the month. Comment by Rain Newton-Smith, CBI chief economist The Government’s support throughout the lockdown so far has been a lifeline for businesses, employees and the self-employed. The changes announced by the Chancellor will help ensure those schemes stay effective as we begin a cautious recovery. We cannot overstate the importance of these support schemes over recent months. Just look at the US, where the jobs market has collapsed with more than 40 million new benefit claims since the start of the crisis.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-30--'Barnier has head in the sand!' EU warned as Brexit trade talks near disastrous collapse

The two sides , led the UK 's chief Brexit negotiator David Frost and Brussels counterpart Mr Barnier , began negotiations on the future relationship in March after Boris Johnson delivered on his promise to `` get Brexit done '' on January 31 .
But the talks have quickly descended into chaos , with the UK and EU trading brutal blows and insults over their negotiating stances and demands for certain elements in any post-Brexit agreement .
Key areas such as the level playing field , state aid , tax and access to the single market all still remain unresolved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Talks appear to have reached a stalemate , with Mr Barnier writing to UK opposition party leaders to say the EU is open to the idea of an extension to the transition period by up to two years .
But this was immediately slapped down by both Mr Johnson and Mr Frost , who have dismissed this will and continue to insist a trade deal is signed before the deadline on December 31 , 2020 .
A group of Remain ministers , led by Liberal Democrat acting co-leader sir Ed Davey , are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Parliament in a last-ditch and desperate attempt to delay Brexit by up to two years .
The second reading of this Bill is due to take place on June 12 .
Trade talks could reach a critical point on Monday when the next round of virtual negotiations begin , with Mr Frost continuing to warn the EU needs to dramatically change its stance in negotiations and relent on a number of areas if further progress is to be made .
John Macdonald , head of government affairs at the Adam Smith Institute , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the final week of talks before the June summit , negotiations are likely to collapse unless there is compromise on a trade deal and fisheries agreement .
`` David Frost has admitted it is unlikely a fisheries agreement will be met by July 1st .
`` While this is a soft deadline , the EU will have to accept the UK wants control over its own waters if negotiations are to progress .
DO N'T MISS EU fisheries panic as Belgium fears 'post-Brexit crash ' [ INTERVIEW ] Barnier eyes fishing deal : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ ANALYSIS ] Do n't even DARE !
David Frost rejects EU 's desperate Brexit extension [ COMMENT ] '' There has been some suggestion that the penny is dropping for Barnier that the UK will follow through on walking away from the negotiating table unless the EU drops regulatory alignment .
`` However , his letter to remain supporting opposition MPs offering an extension to the transition period indicates otherwise .
`` Barnier still appears in denial that the Conservatives secured their election victory by promising not to extend the transition period @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Barnier has his head in the sand .
`` As we approach the final week of negotiations before the June summit , both sides will soon have to decide if continuing negotiations under the current stalemate is preferable to preparing for a no deal scenario . ''
Mr Macdonald had previously warned Mr Johnson `` wo n't hesitate '' to walk away from a trade deal with the EU , and lashed out at Brussels for not taking the Prime Minister 's threats seriously enough .
He warned a disastrous no deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more of a reality .
The Head of government Affairs at the Adam Smith Institute said : `` While a trade deal is now even more in both the EU and UK ’ s interests , the EU appears not to understand ( despite how often it has been repeated ) that unlike Theresa May , Johnson ’ s strong Parliamentary majority is staked on his commitment to ‘ Get Brexit Done ’ .

Brexit: David Frost outlines 'frustration' with EU negotiations
The two sides, led the UK's chief Brexit negotiator David Frost and Brussels counterpart Mr Barnier, began negotiations on the future relationship in March after Boris Johnson delivered on his promise to "get Brexit done" on January 31. But the talks have quickly descended into chaos, with the UK and EU trading brutal blows and insults over their negotiating stances and demands for certain elements in any post-Brexit agreement. Key areas such as the level playing field, state aid, tax and access to the single market all still remain unresolved - with no solution in sight.
Trending
Talks appear to have reached a stalemate, with Mr Barnier writing to UK opposition party leaders to say the EU is open to the idea of an extension to the transition period by up to two years. But this was immediately slapped down by both Mr Johnson and Mr Frost, who have dismissed this will and continue to insist a trade deal is signed before the deadline on December 31, 2020. A group of Remain ministers, led by Liberal Democrat acting co-leader sir Ed Davey, are also trying to squeeze a Bill through Parliament in a last-ditch and desperate attempt to delay Brexit by up to two years. The second reading of this Bill is due to take place on June 12. READ MORE: Priti Patel accused EU of undermining Suffragettes' efforts
Brexit news: Michel Barnier has been sent a hugfe warning ahead of the next round of trade talks
Brexit news: Boris Jonhson has insisted a trade deal must be signed this year
Trade talks could reach a critical point on Monday when the next round of virtual negotiations begin, with Mr Frost continuing to warn the EU needs to dramatically change its stance in negotiations and relent on a number of areas if further progress is to be made. John Macdonald, head of government affairs at the Adam Smith Institute, told Express.co.uk: "As we approach the final week of talks before the June summit, negotiations are likely to collapse unless there is compromise on a trade deal and fisheries agreement. "David Frost has admitted it is unlikely a fisheries agreement will be met by July 1st. "While this is a soft deadline, the EU will have to accept the UK wants control over its own waters if negotiations are to progress. DON'T MISS
EU fisheries panic as Belgium fears 'post-Brexit crash' [INTERVIEW]
Barnier eyes fishing deal: EU compromise could pave way for agreement [ANALYSIS]
Don't even DARE! David Frost rejects EU's desperate Brexit extension [COMMENT]
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Brexit news: Michel Barnier said the EU is open to a two-year extension to the transition period
"There has been some suggestion that the penny is dropping for Barnier that the UK will follow through on walking away from the negotiating table unless the EU drops regulatory alignment. "However, his letter to remain supporting opposition MPs offering an extension to the transition period indicates otherwise. "Barnier still appears in denial that the Conservatives secured their election victory by promising not to extend the transition period. Frost is ready to walk away and Barnier has his head in the sand. "As we approach the final week of negotiations before the June summit, both sides will soon have to decide if continuing negotiations under the current stalemate is preferable to preparing for a no deal scenario."
Brexit news: Michel Barnier has come in for criticism over the EU's negotiating stance
Brexit news: David Frost has warned the transition period will not be extended
Mr Macdonald had previously warned Mr Johnson "won't hesitate" to walk away from a trade deal with the EU, and lashed out at Brussels for not taking the Prime Minister's threats seriously enough. He warned a disastrous no deal scenario for both sides is now becoming more of a reality. The Head of government Affairs at the Adam Smith Institute said: "While a trade deal is now even more in both the EU and UK’s interests, the EU appears not to understand (despite how often it has been repeated) that unlike Theresa May, Johnson’s strong Parliamentary majority is staked on his commitment to ‘Get Brexit Done’.
Brexit news: The transition period is due to end of December 31, 2020


thedailyexpress--2020-05-30--Brexit warning: UK desperately needs trade deal more than EU experts believe

Negotiations on the future relationship between the UK and EU began in March after Prime Minister Boris Johnson delivered on his general election manifesto promise to `` get Brexit done '' on January 31 .
David Frost took a negotiating army to Brussels to begin talks with a team led by EU counterpart Michel Barnier , and there were smiles aplenty for the camera from the outset .
But those smiles have soon been wiped off faces with the trade talks dominated by vicious blows between the two sides over their negotiating stances and demands for certain elements in any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the level playing field , state aid , tax and access to the single market all still remain unresolved - with no solution in sight .
Mr Johnson is insisting a trade deal must be signed with the EU before the end of the transition period on December 31 , but has infuriated Brussels infuriated by refusing requests to extend this deadline .
Trade talks could reach a critical point on Monday when the next round of virtual negotiations begin , with Mr Frost continuing to warn the EU needs to dramatically change @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a number of areas if further progress is to be made .
On Wednesday , Mr Barnier sent a letter to UK opposition party leaders and said Brussels was open to the idea of extending the transition period by up to two years .
But this move was immediately slapped down by both Mr Johnson and Mr Frost , who are sticking by their determination to have a trade deal signed with the EU before the end of this year .
Despite Britain appearing to be in control of negotiations and making demands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warned that it is in fact Brussels who hold the upper hand in current trade talks .
Professor Alex de Ruyter , Director of the Centre for Brexit Studies at Birmingham City University , explained to Express.co.uk : “ The EU holds all the advantage in the post-Brexit trade talks .
`` As the UK conducts about half of its trade with the EU , whilst the EU in total only exports about 10 percent of its products to the UK , which will be heavily concentrated in certain sectors like automotive and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` So whilst both sides would take a hit from ‘ No Deal ’ , the effects would be far more severe for the UK .
When asked if the UK should extend the transition period beyond December 31 , 2020 , Professor de Ruyter added : `` Yes , for all the reasons alluded to above .
COVID-19 has sapped the ability of Government to devote time and resources to this .
`` The prospect of a No Deal coming on top of the coronavirus disruption could tip many businesses over the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Alistair Jones , Associate Professor in Politics and a University Teacher Fellow at De Montfort University , explained how Britain could find it difficult to operate in particular trade sectors if they are unable to strike an agreement with the EU .
He told this website : `` The reality is that Britain probably needs the trade deal more .
`` We import more than we export in our trade with the EU and much of what is imported , such as food and medicines , may be very difficult to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are the largest individual trade partner ( of the EU-27 ) , they are pragmatic enough to try to find a common position .
`` A lot of the smaller countries have negligible trade with the UK and are not going to invest time . ''
Kostas Maronitis , Lecturer in Politics and International Relations at Leeds Trinity University , echoed Professor Jones ' comments , and said : `` The EU has more of an advantage in these talks because it negotiates as a bloc of member states with more or less @ @ @ @ @ @ @ objectives .
`` Both sides are desperate for a comprehensive trade deal , but the prevailing idea in the UK that in the midst of a pandemic , nobody would notice just another wave of economic shocks and disruptions should be abandoned as soon as possible .
`` The pandemic has exposed the UK ’ s dependence on migrant workers and on uninterrupted supply chains concerning food , medical and protective equipment . ''
But Professor de Ruyter warned the EU will not change its negotiating stance in trade talks and is extremely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the risk the single market could `` unravel '' as a consequence .
He added : `` The UK is a middle-sized economy with about 65 million people and the EU is a trade bloc with a population of about 450 million .
`` If we look at the key areas of disagreement ; fisheries and so-called “ level playing field ” provisions ; on the former , fishing ( whilst a totemic issue for the UK , despite its trivial economic contribution at about 0.01 % of our GDP ) is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ equally strong maritime traditions ; the Netherlands , France , Spain , Denmark etc .
“ Regarding the EU insisting on the UK abiding by level playing field provisions around , for example , labour laws , state aid and environmental standards , this is an existential issue for the EU .
`` An ex-member state can not be seen to extract favourable concessions on single market access , least other EU countries such as Poland and Hungary kick-off and start demanding similar treatment .
`` At that point the whole single market @ @ @ @ @

Brexit: ‘No chance’ of no deal being stopped says expert
Negotiations on the future relationship between the UK and EU began in March after Prime Minister Boris Johnson delivered on his general election manifesto promise to "get Brexit done" on January 31. David Frost took a negotiating army to Brussels to begin talks with a team led by EU counterpart Michel Barnier, and there were smiles aplenty for the camera from the outset. But those smiles have soon been wiped off faces with the trade talks dominated by vicious blows between the two sides over their negotiating stances and demands for certain elements in any post-Brexit agreement.
Trending
Key areas such as the level playing field, state aid, tax and access to the single market all still remain unresolved - with no solution in sight. Mr Johnson is insisting a trade deal must be signed with the EU before the end of the transition period on December 31, but has infuriated Brussels infuriated by refusing requests to extend this deadline. Trade talks could reach a critical point on Monday when the next round of virtual negotiations begin, with Mr Frost continuing to warn the EU needs to dramatically change its stance in negotiations and relent on a number of areas if further progress is to be made. On Wednesday, Mr Barnier sent a letter to UK opposition party leaders and said Brussels was open to the idea of extending the transition period by up to two years.
Brexut news: The UK needs a trade deal more than the EU does, political experts have warned
Brexit news; Trade talks between the UK and EU have been dominated by disagreements
But this move was immediately slapped down by both Mr Johnson and Mr Frost, who are sticking by their determination to have a trade deal signed with the EU before the end of this year. Despite Britain appearing to be in control of negotiations and making demands of the EU, political experts have warned that it is in fact Brussels who hold the upper hand in current trade talks. Professor Alex de Ruyter, Director of the Centre for Brexit Studies at Birmingham City University, explained to Express.co.uk: “The EU holds all the advantage in the post-Brexit trade talks. "As the UK conducts about half of its trade with the EU, whilst the EU in total only exports about 10 percent of its products to the UK, which will be heavily concentrated in certain sectors like automotive and fall more on countries like Germany.
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Brexit news: Michel Barnier wrote to opposition party leaders to try and push the case for a two-year extension
"So whilst both sides would take a hit from ‘No Deal’, the effects would be far more severe for the UK. When asked if the UK should extend the transition period beyond December 31, 2020, Professor de Ruyter added: "Yes, for all the reasons alluded to above. COVID-19 has sapped the ability of Government to devote time and resources to this. "The prospect of a No Deal coming on top of the coronavirus disruption could tip many businesses over the edge and would devastate our manufacturing sector." Alistair Jones, Associate Professor in Politics and a University Teacher Fellow at De Montfort University, explained how Britain could find it difficult to operate in particular trade sectors if they are unable to strike an agreement with the EU.
Brexit news: Boris Jonhson has come out fighting against Brussels
Brexit news: The EU has been left furious over the UK's refusal to extend the transition period
He told this website: "The reality is that Britain probably needs the trade deal more. "We import more than we export in our trade with the EU and much of what is imported, such as food and medicines, may be very difficult to source elsewhere. "While the Germans are the largest individual trade partner (of the EU-27), they are pragmatic enough to try to find a common position. "A lot of the smaller countries have negligible trade with the UK and are not going to invest time."
Brexit news: There is a deadline of June 309 for an extension of the transition period to be agreed
Kostas Maronitis, Lecturer in Politics and International Relations at Leeds Trinity University, echoed Professor Jones' comments, and said: "The EU has more of an advantage in these talks because it negotiates as a bloc of member states with more or less a clear understanding of economic and political objectives. "Both sides are desperate for a comprehensive trade deal, but the prevailing idea in the UK that in the midst of a pandemic, nobody would notice just another wave of economic shocks and disruptions should be abandoned as soon as possible. "The pandemic has exposed the UK’s dependence on migrant workers and on uninterrupted supply chains concerning food, medical and protective equipment." But Professor de Ruyter warned the EU will not change its negotiating stance in trade talks and is extremely unlikely to relent in the areas because of the risk the single market could "unravel" as a consequence.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-31--Boris Johnson gives Dominic Cummings final warning after COVID-19 lockdown row

This comes after public attention surrounded Mr Cummings over a trip he took from London to Durham whilst he and his wife were self-isolating after experiencing COVID-19 symptoms .
Now , Mr Johnson wants his aide to stay out of the public eye and to avoid any further incidents .
A senior Downing Street source told the Mail on Sunday : “ Dom ’ s been firmly put in his place.
” According to the newspaper , Mr Cummings has been blocked from making media appearances and writing blog posts .
A Number 10 insider explained : “ The Prime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dominic can not be the story again .
“ He will not tolerate it .
“ If it happens again , he ’ s out.
” Mr Cummings says he went to Durham with his family so he could be near his parents if child care became too difficult for him and his wife .
The news of Mr Cummings ’ trip first broke as a result of a joint journalistic investigation by The Guardian and Daily Mirror .
When the story broke , the BBC ’ s Laura Kuenssberg said she had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lockdown regulations as he stayed in a separate building on his parents ’ property in Durham .
The Cummings ’ family trip to Barnard Castle on April 12 potentially broke lockdown rules .
READ MORE : BBC scraps regional programmes despite wanting to focus on Brexit Durham Police have said : “ Durham constabulary have examined the circumstances surrounding the journey to Barnard Castle ( including ANPR [ automatic number plate recognition ] , witness evidence and a review of Mr Cummings ’ s press conference on 25 May 2020 ) and have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minor breach of the regulations that would have warranted police intervention .
“ Durham constabulary view this as minor because there was no apparent breach of social distancing .
“ Had a Durham constabulary police officer stopped Mr Cummings driving to or from Barnard Castle , the officer would have spoken to him , and , having established the facts , likely advised Mr Cummings to return to the address in Durham , providing advice on the dangers of travelling during the pandemic crisis .
Had this advice been accepted by Mr Cummings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taken.
” Nick Thomas-Symonds , the Shadow Home Secretary , was one of a number of opposition MPs to call for Mr Cummings to resign or be sacked commenting : “ The police have confirmed what we all knew , that Dominic Cummings broke the rules he helped to write .
The country can not afford for this saga to carry on .
Only Boris Johnson can draw a line under it .
DO N'T MISS Pound to euro exchange rate : GBP 'struggles ' against the euro ( LATEST ) Laura Kuenssberg @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dominic Cummings ( NEWS ) Reason Alastair Campbell 'concerned ' over Russia and China revealed ( ANALYSIS ) “ Keir Starmer has said that if he was prime minister , he would have sacked Dominic Cummings .
Boris Johnson should follow that advice .
If he does not act then he will send a clear message that there is one rule for his closest adviser and another for the British people.
” A Number 10 spokesman said in a statement : ‘ The police have made clear they are taking no action against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to Durham did not breach the regulations .
“ The prime minister has said he believes Mr Cummings behaved reasonably and legally given all the circumstances and he regards this issue as closed.
” Mr Cummings was appointed a senior advisor to Mr Johnson shortly after the latter became Prime Minister .
He has been described as the mastermind behind Brexit for his role as Vote Leave campaign director .
Mr Cummings has also previously spent time as an advisor to current Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Michael Gove .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during Mr Gove ’ s time as Education Secretary .

Dominic Cummings: Expert on reason why PM won’t sack him
This comes after public attention surrounded Mr Cummings over a trip he took from London to Durham whilst he and his wife were self-isolating after experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. Now, Mr Johnson wants his aide to stay out of the public eye and to avoid any further incidents. A senior Downing Street source told the Mail on Sunday: “Dom’s been firmly put in his place.”
Trending
According to the newspaper, Mr Cummings has been blocked from making media appearances and writing blog posts. A Number 10 insider explained: “The Prime Minister has made it absolutely clear that Dominic cannot be the story again. “He will not tolerate it. “If it happens again, he’s out.”
Dominic Cummings has been issued an ultimatum by Boris Johnson
Mr Cummings is a senior advisor to Mr Johnson
Mr Cummings says he went to Durham with his family so he could be near his parents if child care became too difficult for him and his wife. The news of Mr Cummings’ trip first broke as a result of a joint journalistic investigation by The Guardian and Daily Mirror. When the story broke, the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg said she had been told Mr Cummings did not break lockdown regulations as he stayed in a separate building on his parents’ property in Durham. The Cummings’ family trip to Barnard Castle on April 12 potentially broke lockdown rules. READ MORE: BBC scraps regional programmes despite wanting to focus on Brexit
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Nick Thomas-Symonds has called for Mr Cummings to go
Durham Police have said: “Durham constabulary have examined the circumstances surrounding the journey to Barnard Castle (including ANPR [automatic number plate recognition], witness evidence and a review of Mr Cummings’s press conference on 25 May 2020) and have concluded that there might have been a minor breach of the regulations that would have warranted police intervention. “Durham constabulary view this as minor because there was no apparent breach of social distancing. “Had a Durham constabulary police officer stopped Mr Cummings driving to or from Barnard Castle, the officer would have spoken to him, and, having established the facts, likely advised Mr Cummings to return to the address in Durham, providing advice on the dangers of travelling during the pandemic crisis. Had this advice been accepted by Mr Cummings, no enforcement action would have been taken.” Nick Thomas-Symonds, the Shadow Home Secretary, was one of a number of opposition MPs to call for Mr Cummings to resign or be sacked commenting: “The police have confirmed what we all knew, that Dominic Cummings broke the rules he helped to write. The country cannot afford for this saga to carry on. Only Boris Johnson can draw a line under it. DON'T MISS
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Durham Constabulary Headquarters
“Keir Starmer has said that if he was prime minister, he would have sacked Dominic Cummings. Boris Johnson should follow that advice. If he does not act then he will send a clear message that there is one rule for his closest adviser and another for the British people.” A Number 10 spokesman said in a statement: ‘The police have made clear they are taking no action against Mr Cummings over his self-isolation and that going to Durham did not breach the regulations. “The prime minister has said he believes Mr Cummings behaved reasonably and legally given all the circumstances and he regards this issue as closed.”
Mr Cummings was appointed a senior advisor to Mr Johnson shortly after the latter became Prime Minister.
Coronavirus symptoms
He has been described as the mastermind behind Brexit for his role as Vote Leave campaign director. Mr Cummings has also previously spent time as an advisor to current Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Michael Gove. This included a period as chief of staff during Mr Gove’s time as Education Secretary.
Mr Cummings was appointed by Mr Johnson when the latter became PM


thedailyexpress--2020-05-31--‘Move faster!’ UK piles pressure on EU with new Brexit deadline telling leaders ‘GET REAL’

The Sunday Express understands that Boris Johnson has authorised an ultimatum to Brussels and its chief negotiator Michel Barnier because of the refusal by the EU to come to the table with reasonable demands .
The warning comes ahead of the fourth round of negotiations running from Tuesday until Friday next week , with talks across all eleven workstreams held via videoconference .
This follows a letter from David Frost , the UK ’ s chief negotiator , to Mr Barnier restating the British position that a future relationship deal must respect British redlines on controlling access to its own @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU laws and regulations or subject to the European Court of Justice .
But despite putting forward reasonable suggestions Britain has been answered with ideological demands from the EU which do not respect British sovereignty .
As a result a senior source from the Brexit division of the Cabinet Office has revealed that while talks will continue , EU foot dragging risks collapsing hopes of a trade deal .
The latest intervention come because the UK wants to inject momentum into EU trade talks .
There are concerns that EU leaders think they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the autumn , but that could be too late .
According to the source , to date , it has been the UK who has been trying to move things forward across the board .
This was evident in the previous round of negotiations , where the EU would not engage in the proposals the UK had tabled , and continued to insist on its own unnegotiable positions .
But the UK believes the conditions could finally now be right to up the pace in July , after the high level meeting – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between the Prime Minister and European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen .
It is understood that Mr Frost 's letter to Mr Barnier sounded the alarm bell for some EU members and made them realise just how risky it could be for the EU to continue marking time .
A UK source close to the negotiations said : “ We expect next week 's round to be constructive and keep the process on track .
But then we are going to need things to move forward faster .
We recognise the EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too , as we all do , but they ca n't just mark time on these talks .
“ The EU seems to have finally understood we are n't going to move on fundamentals , so they now need to think quickly about how they can find an agreement that reflects this reality . ''
But the source added that “ talks can not go on forever.
” The source said : “ The UK has to make sure businesses can prepare properly for what will happen at the end of the year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the talks are continuing well into the autumn because they wo n't know what to prepare for .
“ What is clear is that the conventional approach will not get us much further .
The EU needs to inject some political reality into its approach , and appreciate that they can not use their usual tactic of delay to drag the talks into the autumn .
“ October is too late .
Our businesses need to know whether there is going to be a trade agreement before then to prepare for the end @ @ @ @

Brexit: Frost says they 'wouldn't agree' to EU extension request
The Sunday Express understands that Boris Johnson has authorised an ultimatum to Brussels and its chief negotiator Michel Barnier because of the refusal by the EU to come to the table with reasonable demands. The warning comes ahead of the fourth round of negotiations running from Tuesday until Friday next week, with talks across all eleven workstreams held via videoconference.
This follows a letter from David Frost, the UK’s chief negotiator, to Mr Barnier restating the British position that a future relationship deal must respect British redlines on controlling access to its own fishing waters, not being bound by EU laws and regulations or subject to the European Court of Justice. But despite putting forward reasonable suggestions Britain has been answered with ideological demands from the EU which do not respect British sovereignty. As a result a senior source from the Brexit division of the Cabinet Office has revealed that while talks will continue, EU foot dragging risks collapsing hopes of a trade deal. The latest intervention come because the UK wants to inject momentum into EU trade talks. There are concerns that EU leaders think they don't need to pay attention until the autumn, but that could be too late.
UK piles pressure on EU with new Brexit deadline
David Frost, the UK’s chief negotiator
According to the source, to date, it has been the UK who has been trying to move things forward across the board. This was evident in the previous round of negotiations, where the EU would not engage in the proposals the UK had tabled, and continued to insist on its own unnegotiable positions. But the UK believes the conditions could finally now be right to up the pace in July, after the high level meeting – likely to take place via videoconference - between the Prime Minister and European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen. It is understood that Mr Frost's letter to Mr Barnier sounded the alarm bell for some EU members and made them realise just how risky it could be for the EU to continue marking time. A UK source close to the negotiations said: “We expect next week's round to be constructive and keep the process on track. But then we are going to need things to move forward faster. We recognise the EU have other important issues on their plate too, as we all do, but they can't just mark time on these talks.
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It is understood that Mr Frost's letter to Mr Barnier sounded the alarm bell for some EU members
“The EU seems to have finally understood we aren't going to move on fundamentals, so they now need to think quickly about how they can find an agreement that reflects this reality." But the source added that “talks cannot go on forever.” The source said: “The UK has to make sure businesses can prepare properly for what will happen at the end of the year. Traders can't do that if the talks are continuing well into the autumn because they won't know what to prepare for. “What is clear is that the conventional approach will not get us much further. The EU needs to inject some political reality into its approach, and appreciate that they cannot use their usual tactic of delay to drag the talks into the autumn. “October is too late. Our businesses need to know whether there is going to be a trade agreement before then to prepare for the end of transition."


thedailyexpress--2020-05-31--'National scandal!' Nicola Sturgeon ordered to come clean over Scotland COVID-19 outbreak

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The Scottish First Minister is facing demands by one of Britain ’ s leading public health experts Professor Hugh Pennington of Aberdeen University to produce a full report into the impact of a Nike conference in Edinburgh in February which was believed to be Scotland ’ s “ ground zero ” for coronavirus .
From the 70 attendees at the conference , 25 have been confirmed to have had coronavirus .
Attendees , who also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , came from abroad and all over the UK and it is believed that the first cases in the north east of England can be traced back to the conference .
The incident happened before lockdown when the r rate of infection was between 3 and 4 .
But Ms Sturgeon and her Scottish nationalist administration have been accused of covering up the episode even though it had wider public health implications .
Professor Pennington said : “ How many cases arose following the Nike conference ?
We need to see a proper @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Why hasn ’ t this been published even in draft form ?
Other countries publish outbreaks in detail and there are weekly reports giving details without names .
If they can do it why can ’ t we ?
” Professor Pennington , who has specialised in communicable diseases at the University of Aberdeen , added : “ After that outbreak there are cases which went back to Holland and it may have led to the first cases associated with the north east of England .
There has been nothing published about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we have information and evidence about transfer of the virus in a particular setting to help us work out more about how this virus works .

Nicola Sturgeon announces easing of lockdown measures
The Scottish First Minister is facing demands by one of Britain’s leading public health experts Professor Hugh Pennington of Aberdeen University to produce a full report into the impact of a Nike conference in Edinburgh in February which was believed to be Scotland’s “ground zero” for coronavirus. From the 70 attendees at the conference, 25 have been confirmed to have had coronavirus.
Attendees, who also went on a walking tour of Edinburgh, came from abroad and all over the UK and it is believed that the first cases in the north east of England can be traced back to the conference. The incident happened before lockdown when the r rate of infection was between 3 and 4. But Ms Sturgeon and her Scottish nationalist administration have been accused of covering up the episode even though it had wider public health implications. Professor Pennington said: “How many cases arose following the Nike conference? We need to see a proper report from Nicola Sturgeon on this quickly. Why hasn’t this been published even in draft form? Other countries publish outbreaks in detail and there are weekly reports giving details without names. If they can do it why can’t we?” Professor Pennington, who has specialised in communicable diseases at the University of Aberdeen, added: “After that outbreak there are cases which went back to Holland and it may have led to the first cases associated with the north east of England. There has been nothing published about this conference and it is crucial that we have information and evidence about transfer of the virus in a particular setting to help us work out more about how this virus works.
Ms Sturgeon and her Scottish nationalist administration have been accused of covering up the episode
“We can also ask how many cases came about because of the Cheltenham Festival. This is a reasonable question to ask. Understanding more about individual outbreaks helps us understand how it behaves. It could tell us, for example whether it has behaved in a different way from how it has behaved in other countries for example China?” Labour MP Ian Murray, Shadow Scottish Secretary, was caught in a recording complaining that Ms Sturgeon was getting away with her mistakes north of the Border because people are wrongly blaming Boris Johnson. Reacting to Professor Pennington, he said: “Professor Pennington is a world-renowned expert and his comments deserve to be listened to by the Scottish Government. “It is a national scandal that the Scottish Government covered-up the Nike outbreak in Edinburgh, which affected people right across the UK. “We need full transparency from the Scottish Government, including an inquiry to find out more about this killer virus, and to determine if lives could have been saved. “This crisis is far from over and all governments need to learn from their mistakes as we embark on the route out of lockdown so that we all get through this together.”
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Labour MP Ian Murray
He added: “Given Nike stores across the UK were closed in the immediate aftermath for cleaning, it’s very likely it was further spread across the UK. “But the Scottish Government chose to cover-up the outbreak, and Nicola Sturgeon didn’t even inform COBRA when she attended. “The public could have helped with contact tracing, which is why we need answers from both governments to ensure confidence as they prepare to launch test, track and isolate strategies.” When pressed on the cover up, Ms Sturgeon insisted that appropriate measures had been taken. She said: “On the accusation of a cover-up, that is complete and utter nonsense.
SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford


thedailyexpress--2020-05-31--MPs to ditch £4bn move to allow builders in Parliament as UK battles coronavirus debt

A senior government source has confirmed that ministers believe that it would be unacceptable for MPs to spend billions of pounds on a project for themselves at a time when Britain is facing one of the biggest recessions in modern history because of coronavirus .
A source close to the Leader of the House Jacob Rees-Mogg said : “ The Palace itself is iconic and must be preserved for future generations , but there 's never been a blank cheque for R & R and certainly it would be hard for MPs to justify huge expenditure on themselves at a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ review was launched last month into the plans which had been signed off by former Leader of the House Andrea Leadsom with cross party support .
In 2018 both houses of parliament voted to temporarily move MPs and peers into a new like-for-like chamber for about eight years while the complete revamp of the Palace of Westminster was carried out .
There have been ongoing fears that the parlous state of the Palace of Westminster could lead to a Notre Dame style disaster when the iconic cathedral in Paris burnt down .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adds £100 million a year to the costs of sorting out the maze of wiring and plumbing as well as the degrading building which is collapsing in places .
The two main plans had been to decant Parliament altogether or look at an incremental approach .
Consultants Allford Hall Monagahan Morris had drawn up plans to gut the grade 2 listed building Richmond House and put in a new temporary chamber and offices there .
Plans for this were submitted to Westminster Council in November .
But the massive cost and demolition of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the proposals with a recession coming .
It is also understood that new Speaker Lindsay Hoyle , who has distanced himself from his predecessor John Bercow ’ s extravagant legacy , has supported Mr Rees-Mogg in having a review .
One light touch proposal could reduce the costs to just £200 million a fraction of the original cost .

MPs to ditch £4bn move to allow builders in Parliament as UK battles coronavirus debt
A senior government source has confirmed that ministers believe that it would be unacceptable for MPs to spend billions of pounds on a project for themselves at a time when Britain is facing one of the biggest recessions in modern history because of coronavirus. A source close to the Leader of the House Jacob Rees-Mogg said: “The Palace itself is iconic and must be preserved for future generations, but there's never been a blank cheque for R&R and certainly it would be hard for MPs to justify huge expenditure on themselves at a time of national economic difficulty.”
A review was launched last month into the plans which had been signed off by former Leader of the House Andrea Leadsom with cross party support. In 2018 both houses of parliament voted to temporarily move MPs and peers into a new like-for-like chamber for about eight years while the complete revamp of the Palace of Westminster was carried out. There have been ongoing fears that the parlous state of the Palace of Westminster could lead to a Notre Dame style disaster when the iconic cathedral in Paris burnt down. It is also estimated that delaying the project adds £100 million a year to the costs of sorting out the maze of wiring and plumbing as well as the degrading building which is collapsing in places.
Former Leader of the House Andrea Leadsom
The two main plans had been to decant Parliament altogether or look at an incremental approach. Consultants Allford Hall Monagahan Morris had drawn up plans to gut the grade 2 listed building Richmond House and put in a new temporary chamber and offices there. Plans for this were submitted to Westminster Council in November. But the massive cost and demolition of an historic building have seen ministers balk at the proposals with a recession coming. It is also understood that new Speaker Lindsay Hoyle, who has distanced himself from his predecessor John Bercow’s extravagant legacy, has supported Mr Rees-Mogg in having a review. One light touch proposal could reduce the costs to just £200 million a fraction of the original cost.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-31--Boris Johnson given grave warning as UK faces income tax, national insurance AND VAT rise

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Pressure has been mounting on the Prime Minister and Chancellor Rishi Sunak to increase income tax , national insurance or VAT to help pay off the coronavirus debt .
When pressed earlier this week at the Liaison Committee of senior MPs , Mr Johnson refused to rule out increases of those three taxes even though it was a manifesto commitment not to raise them .
Answering questions from the Tory chairman of the Treasury select @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that he would stick to manifesto policies listing pledges on police and nurse numbers as well as the hospital building programme .
Britons furious after EU sues the UK - 'It 's all about the money ! '
But pressed on VAT , income tax and national insurance , he said : “ You ’ re going to have to wait until Rishi Sunak brings forward his various proposals.
” He added : “ I would share your instincts Mel to try and keep taxes as low as we conceivably can consistent with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public services but I don ’ t want to anticipate now what we are going to do now on our economic package .
“ When you were doing your job so fantastically as you did in the Treasury [ as former chief Treasury Secretary in Theresa May ’ s government ] I don ’ t think you would have made that kind of fiscal commitments in this kind of committee but you know where my instincts lie.
” On Friday , Mr Sunak told journalists “ I agree with the Prime Minister ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Budget and tax rises .
The two men are facing a difficult task in paying for the £300 billion coronavirus bailout while keeping investment promises for the country as part of the “ leveling up agenda ” at a time when the country is expected to go into one of the worst recessions of modern times after coronavirus .
But John O'Connell , chief executive of the TaxPayers ' Alliance , warned : `` The government has a tough job on its hands in repairing the public finances , but increasing a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a part of the plan .

Pressure has been mounting on the Prime Minister and Chancellor Rishi Sunak to increase income tax, national insurance or VAT to help pay off the coronavirus debt. When pressed earlier this week at the Liaison Committee of senior MPs, Mr Johnson refused to rule out increases of those three taxes even though it was a manifesto commitment not to raise them. Answering questions from the Tory chairman of the Treasury select committee Mel Stride, Mr Johnson insisted that he would stick to manifesto policies listing pledges on police and nurse numbers as well as the hospital building programme.
Britons furious after EU sues the UK - 'It's all about the money!'
But pressed on VAT, income tax and national insurance, he said: “You’re going to have to wait until Rishi Sunak brings forward his various proposals.”
He added: “I would share your instincts Mel to try and keep taxes as low as we conceivably can consistent with our desire to invest in our fantastic public services but I don’t want to anticipate now what we are going to do now on our economic package.
“When you were doing your job so fantastically as you did in the Treasury [as former chief Treasury Secretary in Theresa May’s government] I don’t think you would have made that kind of fiscal commitments in this kind of committee but you know where my instincts lie.”
On Friday, Mr Sunak told journalists “I agree with the Prime Minister” but also would not be drawn on the Budget and tax rises.
The two men are facing a difficult task in paying for the £300 billion coronavirus bailout while keeping investment promises for the country as part of the “leveling up agenda” at a time when the country is expected to go into one of the worst recessions of modern times after coronavirus.
But John O'Connell, chief executive of the TaxPayers' Alliance, warned: "The government has a tough job on its hands in repairing the public finances, but increasing a 50-year high tax burden should not be a part of the plan.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-31--UK risks giving China power to BRAINWASH Britons as calls grow to shut down state TV

Sir John Hayes , who served as a security minister for David Cameron , has written to culture secretary Oliver Dowden demanding that the operating licence for Chinese Global Television Network ( CGTN ) in London is revoked .
It follows a damning report by the broadcaster watchdog Ofcom on Tuesday which concluded that CGTN , which is owned by the Chinese Communist regime , was guilty of multiple breaches of the rules .
Among the conclusions were a failure to meet impartiality rules on the reporting of suppression of Hong Kong and broadcasting forced confessions of prisoners .
Ofcom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before deciding what sanction to impose but it is possible it could have its licence revoked .
Tory foreign affairs select committee chairman Tom Tugenhat has described it as a “ propaganda channel ” and last week the Sunday Express revealed that british academics are being used to give it a “ veneer of respectability.
” The revelations carried by the Sunday Express of CGTN ’ s activities had led , to write to the Home secretary Priti Patel looking at the activities of the Chinese state in British universities .
Following the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ culture secretary .
He noted : Ofcom have concluded that CGTN have , on five separate occasions , breached impartiality rules governing the coverage of news and current events in the United Kingdom .
“ On each of these occasions , CGTN sought to craft a narrative concerning ongoing political events in Hong Kong ( commencing in April 2019 ) designed to propagate Chinese Communist Party propaganda , whilst excluding entirely , or deliberately delegitimising alternative opinions.
” Sir John added : “ It is clear that CGTN exists purely for political purposes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risks the creation of a malign communist narrative with the potential to influence British citizens who are dissatisfied with the present Western status-quo .
“ Similarly , it is entirely reasonable to suspect that anti-Western sentiment aired by the outlet will radicalise Chinese citizens living in the United Kingdom , endangering social solidarity.
” He went on : “ I would encourage your intervention in this matter to ensure the implementation of the only appropriate , decisive and proportional response - the removal of CGTN ’ s broadcasting license.
” CGTN has not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tom Fowden , one of the academics to write for the channel supporting the Chinese communist regime and attacking its critics , went on the defensive this week about it .
He Tweeted : “ When is Ofcom going to investigate the BBC for its openly partisan coverage of the Hong Kong protests ?
Not offering any legitimacy to the Chinese side of the argument and running headlines such as `` this is the end of Hong Kong ? ''

Military parade at Tiananmen Square in Beijing
Sir John Hayes, who served as a security minister for David Cameron, has written to culture secretary Oliver Dowden demanding that the operating licence for Chinese Global Television Network (CGTN) in London is revoked. It follows a damning report by the broadcaster watchdog Ofcom on Tuesday which concluded that CGTN, which is owned by the Chinese Communist regime, was guilty of multiple breaches of the rules.
Among the conclusions were a failure to meet impartiality rules on the reporting of suppression of Hong Kong and broadcasting forced confessions of prisoners. Ofcom is now awaiting a response from CGTN before deciding what sanction to impose but it is possible it could have its licence revoked. Tory foreign affairs select committee chairman Tom Tugenhat has described it as a “propaganda channel” and last week the Sunday Express revealed that british academics are being used to give it a “veneer of respectability.” The revelations carried by the Sunday Express of CGTN’s activities had led, to write to the Home secretary Priti Patel looking at the activities of the Chinese state in British universities.
Sir John Hayes has written to culture secretary Oliver Dowden
Following the Ofcom ruling he also wrote to the culture secretary. He noted: Ofcom have concluded that CGTN have, on five separate occasions, breached impartiality rules governing the coverage of news and current events in the United Kingdom. “On each of these occasions, CGTN sought to craft a narrative concerning ongoing political events in Hong Kong (commencing in April 2019) designed to propagate Chinese Communist Party propaganda, whilst excluding entirely, or deliberately delegitimising alternative opinions.” Sir John added: “It is clear that CGTN exists purely for political purposes. The continued operation of the channel risks the creation of a malign communist narrative with the potential to influence British citizens who are dissatisfied with the present Western status-quo.
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thedailyexpress--2020-05-30--Former Tory MEP breaks cover to demand Brexit deadline EXTENDED 'you know it makes sense'

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Struan Stevenson , who was a Conservative representative at Brussels for 15 years , insisted it `` makes sense '' to have longer for the transition talks because economists are already predicting `` a recession to end all recessions '' following the coronavirus pandemic .
The UK has already formally left the European Union and negotiators on both sides have until the end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ setting out their future relationship .
EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier confirmed earlier this week the bloc is `` open '' to a two-year Brexit delay - but his UK counterpart David Frost insisted the `` firm policy '' of the Government remains not to extend beyond the end of the year .
Mr Stevenson argued that `` throwing a cliff-edge Brexit into the mix '' as the economy faces the prospect of a coronavirus-related recession would be devastating .
Writing in The Herald newspaper , he urged Mr Johnson : `` Grant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Boris .
You know it makes sense .
A decision on whether or not to seek an extension to the Brexit transition period must be made by July 1 .
It would surely be prudent and entirely understandable given the Covid-19 pandemic to ask for a six-month extension , even if that extension was ultimately found not to be needed ? ''
If no deal is agreed , the UK faces the prospect of reverting to World Trade Organisation rules , which could see tariffs imposed on businesses dealing with the EU .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ be a disaster for the Government , particularly when Northern Ireland , Scotland and London voted by a majority to remain in the EU .

Struan Stevenson, who was a Conservative representative at Brussels for 15 years, insisted it "makes sense" to have longer for the transition talks because economists are already predicting "a recession to end all recessions" following the coronavirus pandemic. The UK has already formally left the European Union and negotiators on both sides have until the end of this year to agree a deal setting out their future relationship.
EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier confirmed earlier this week the bloc is "open" to a two-year Brexit delay - but his UK counterpart David Frost insisted the "firm policy" of the Government remains not to extend beyond the end of the year.
Mr Stevenson argued that "throwing a cliff-edge Brexit into the mix" as the economy faces the prospect of a coronavirus-related recession would be devastating.
Writing in The Herald newspaper, he urged Mr Johnson: "Grant an extension to the Brexit deadline, Boris. You know it makes sense.
A decision on whether or not to seek an extension to the Brexit transition period must be made by July 1. It would surely be prudent and entirely understandable given the Covid-19 pandemic to ask for a six-month extension, even if that extension was ultimately found not to be needed?"
If no deal is agreed, the UK faces the prospect of reverting to World Trade Organisation rules, which could see tariffs imposed on businesses dealing with the EU.
The ex-MEP added: "That would be a disaster for the Government, particularly when Northern Ireland, Scotland and London voted by a majority to remain in the EU.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-31--Deluded! Barnier boasts no deal Brexit would harm Britain more than EU in latest threat

Michel Barnier has made another intervention and reignited “ Project Fear ” ahead of the fourth round of Brexit trade talks which will begin this week .
The European Commission Head of Taskforce has claimed the EU will be “ less exposed ” to a no deal outcome at the end of the transition period – as the UK exports a greater number of goods to the continent .
Mr Barnier says Britain exports just less than half of all its goods to the European Union , compared to just seven percent in the other direction .
On the prospect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two sides , the 69-year-old said : “ We are less exposed because seven percent of our exports go to the UK , whereas for the UK it ’ s 47 percent of their exports which come to the EU .
“ So I think that it is in the interests of both sides to find an agreement , particularly now .
“ But there won ’ t be an agreement which comes about to the detriment of the EU in the long-term , nor if it harms the integrity of the single @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s Brexit negotiator David Frost have so far held three rounds of talks with outstanding issues over trade , fishing and regulations proving a huge stumbling block .
Brussels has so far resisted the UK ’ s demands , outlined in its draft legal texts , for a comprehensive free-trade agreement – with the EU insisting on clauses to ensure a so-called “ level-playing field ” .
With talks at a stalemate , Mr Barnier has again condemned the result of the 2016 EU referendum but insisting any deal would be worse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interview with the Sunday Times the EU chief said the negotiations were concentrated on “ damage limitation ” and claimed even leading Brexiteer Nigel Farage could not show the “ added value to Brexit ” .
Mr Barnier also insisted the global coronavirus crisis has put a new emphasis on finding an agreement and stated the COVID-19 pandemic has already brought “ very serious consequences ” .
He said : “ Brexit is lose-lose .
Nobody has been able to show there ’ s any added value to Brexit — not so far @ @ @ @ @ @ @ So in these negotiations , what we do is damage limitation .
“ If we don ’ t get an agreement then that will have even more consequences .
And then of course those will be added to the already very serious consequences of the coronavirus crisis .
READ MORE : Coronavirus map LIVE : Vulnerable to be FREED for indoor 'captivity' “ So I think that we have a joint responsibility in this very serious crisis , which affects so many families , with so many deaths , so many people sick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do everything we can to reach an agreement and I very much hope that we will do so.
” Earlier this week , Mr Barnier meddled in UK affairs by publishing a letter to opposition party leaders offering the UK a delay to the transition period of up to two years .
The terms outlined in the letter were instantly reject by the Prime Minister and Mr Frost who have vowed to honour the December 31 deadline .
Barnier issues Brexit ultimatum as he demands UK back down [ INSIGHT ] Boris must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - EXPRESS COMMENT [ COMMENT ] School 's back for summer ... Playground to be divided and windows open [ ANALYSIS ]

Brexit: Latest talks finished ‘without any progress’ says Barnier
Michel Barnier has made another intervention and reignited “Project Fear” ahead of the fourth round of Brexit trade talks which will begin this week. The European Commission Head of Taskforce has claimed the EU will be “less exposed” to a no deal outcome at the end of the transition period – as the UK exports a greater number of goods to the continent.
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Mr Barnier says Britain exports just less than half of all its goods to the European Union, compared to just seven percent in the other direction. On the prospect of no agreement being reached between the two sides, the 69-year-old said: “We are less exposed because seven percent of our exports go to the UK, whereas for the UK it’s 47 percent of their exports which come to the EU. “So I think that it is in the interests of both sides to find an agreement, particularly now.
Michel Barnier has issued a warning to the UK over a no deal Brexit
Michel Barnier and the UK’s Brexit negotiator David Frost have so far held three rounds of talks
“But there won’t be an agreement which comes about to the detriment of the EU in the long-term, nor if it harms the integrity of the single market.” Mr Barnier and the UK’s Brexit negotiator David Frost have so far held three rounds of talks with outstanding issues over trade, fishing and regulations proving a huge stumbling block. Brussels has so far resisted the UK’s demands, outlined in its draft legal texts, for a comprehensive free-trade agreement – with the EU insisting on clauses to ensure a so-called “level-playing field”.
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Michel Barnier has offered the UK a two year extension to talks
With talks at a stalemate, Mr Barnier has again condemned the result of the 2016 EU referendum but insisting any deal would be worse than the current terms. In an interview with the Sunday Times the EU chief said the negotiations were concentrated on “damage limitation” and claimed even leading Brexiteer Nigel Farage could not show the “added value to Brexit”. Mr Barnier also insisted the global coronavirus crisis has put a new emphasis on finding an agreement and stated the COVID-19 pandemic has already brought “very serious consequences”.
Boris Johnson has vowed to honour the December 31 deadline
He said: “Brexit is lose-lose. Nobody has been able to show there’s any added value to Brexit — not so far. “Not even Nigel Farage. So in these negotiations, what we do is damage limitation. “If we don’t get an agreement then that will have even more consequences. And then of course those will be added to the already very serious consequences of the coronavirus crisis. READ MORE: Coronavirus map LIVE: Vulnerable to be FREED for indoor 'captivity'
Michel Barnier has claimed any deal will be worse than the current terms
“So I think that we have a joint responsibility in this very serious crisis, which affects so many families, with so many deaths, so many people sick, so many people unemployed, to do everything we can to reach an agreement and I very much hope that we will do so.” Earlier this week, Mr Barnier meddled in UK affairs by publishing a letter to opposition party leaders offering the UK a delay to the transition period of up to two years. The terms outlined in the letter were instantly reject by the Prime Minister and Mr Frost who have vowed to honour the December 31 deadline. DON'T MISS Barnier issues Brexit ultimatum as he demands UK back down [INSIGHT]
Boris must learn from history and resist mob rule - EXPRESS COMMENT [COMMENT]
School's back for summer... Playground to be divided and windows open [ANALYSIS]
A timeline of Brexit talks until January 2021


thedailyexpress--2020-05-31--Barnier issues Brexit ultimatum as he demands UK back down or he will WALK AWAY from talks

The fourth round of talks between the UK and EU are due to take place next week , with the last set of negotiations ending in stalemate .
An angry exchange of letters between Michel Barnier and the UK 's representative in the talks , David Frost , took place after the failure of a breakthrough when they met over video link two weeks ago .
Now , a new ultimatum has now been issued by Brussels , threatening to walk away from the negotiating table .
Mr Barnier said the EU would not agree to a deal `` at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of failing to honour the withdrawal agreement signed between the two sides in autumn last year .
June is a crucial month in trade talks between London and Brussels , with the two sides needing to decide by the end of the month whether they believe a deal is possible by the end of the year .
If both sides agree a deal is unlikely , talks will be disbanded as the UK and EU prepare for a no deal scenario .
Speaking to The Times , Mr Barnier said : “ The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — two steps back , three steps back — from the original commitments .
`` The UK negotiators need to be fully in line with what the prime minister signed up to with us .
Because 27 heads of state and government and the European parliament do not have a short memory .
“ We remember very clearly the text which we negotiated with Boris Johnson .
And we just want to see that complied with .
To the letter ... And if that doesn ’ t happen , there will be no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the EU was a `` lose-lose '' for both sides , saying no-one - not even Nigel Farage - had shown there was any `` added value '' to the UK 's departure .
He said , therefore , the natural next step in trade negotiations was `` damage limitation '' , and if no agreement were reached that would result in `` even more consequences '' at the worst time possible , given the coronavirus pandemic .
READ MORE : France fears Brussels is about to surrender fisheries to UK '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ joint responsibility in this very serious crisis , which affects so many families ... with so many deaths , so many sick people , so many people unemployed ... to do everything we can to reach an agreement and I very much hope that we will do so , '' he said .
Last week saw battle lines being drawn as Mr Frost and Mr Barnier prepare for the fourth round of negotiations on Britain 's future trade relationship with the bloc .
A war of words broke out after Mr Barnier told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ British have not understood , or they do not want to understand , that Brexit has consequences for them '' .
But Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove , said : `` What the EU is asking of us is unprecedented in any of the free trade agreements that they signed , or indeed contemplated signing , with other economies . ''
DO N'T MISS : Former Tory MEP breaks cover to demand Brexit deadline EXTENDED Brexit warning : The secret tactic UK can use to get EU to cave EU 'desperate ' for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He added the EU wants countries it sees as within `` its sphere of influence , to sign up to a higher level of compliance with EU rules and a higher level of EU supervision '' .
Major deadlocks to the deal continue to be fishing , where the EU is demanding the status quo and access to British fishing waters .
Brussels is also infuriated at Britain 's refusal to engage in negotiations about measures with which the EU wish to bind the UK to swathes of regulation and oversight from EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that could mark the final hope for a deal will begin on Tuesday .

Brexit: David Frost outlines 'frustration' with EU negotiations
The fourth round of talks between the UK and EU are due to take place next week, with the last set of negotiations ending in stalemate. An angry exchange of letters between Michel Barnier and the UK's representative in the talks, David Frost, took place after the failure of a breakthrough when they met over video link two weeks ago.
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Now, a new ultimatum has now been issued by Brussels, threatening to walk away from the negotiating table. Mr Barnier said the EU would not agree to a deal "at any cost" and accused the UK of failing to honour the withdrawal agreement signed between the two sides in autumn last year. June is a crucial month in trade talks between London and Brussels, with the two sides needing to decide by the end of the month whether they believe a deal is possible by the end of the year. If both sides agree a deal is unlikely, talks will be disbanded as the UK and EU prepare for a no deal scenario. Speaking to The Times, Mr Barnier said: “The UK has been taking a step back — two steps back, three steps back — from the original commitments.
Michel Barnier has said there will not be an 'agreement at any cost'
It comes after UK chief negotiator David Frost declined a two year Brexit extension.
"The UK negotiators need to be fully in line with what the prime minister signed up to with us. Because 27 heads of state and government and the European parliament do not have a short memory. “We remember very clearly the text which we negotiated with Boris Johnson. And we just want to see that complied with. To the letter... And if that doesn’t happen, there will be no agreement.” Mr Barnier insisted UK withdrawal from the EU was a "lose-lose" for both sides, saying no-one - not even Nigel Farage - had shown there was any "added value" to the UK's departure. He said, therefore, the natural next step in trade negotiations was "damage limitation", and if no agreement were reached that would result in "even more consequences" at the worst time possible, given the coronavirus pandemic. READ MORE: France fears Brussels is about to surrender fisheries to UK
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The UK economy could suffer greatly in the event of a no deal Brexit.
"So, I think we have a joint responsibility in this very serious crisis, which affects so many families... with so many deaths, so many sick people, so many people unemployed... to do everything we can to reach an agreement and I very much hope that we will do so," he said. Last week saw battle lines being drawn as Mr Frost and Mr Barnier prepare for the fourth round of negotiations on Britain's future trade relationship with the bloc. A war of words broke out after Mr Barnier told a German radio station that "the British have not understood, or they do not want to understand, that Brexit has consequences for them". But Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove, said: "What the EU is asking of us is unprecedented in any of the free trade agreements that they signed, or indeed contemplated signing, with other economies." DON'T MISS:
Former Tory MEP breaks cover to demand Brexit deadline EXTENDED
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EU 'desperate' for UK to fund bailout after economic collapse
The EU is remaining firm on access to fishing waters.
He added the EU wants countries it sees as within "its sphere of influence, to sign up to a higher level of compliance with EU rules and a higher level of EU supervision". Major deadlocks to the deal continue to be fishing, where the EU is demanding the status quo and access to British fishing waters. Brussels is also infuriated at Britain's refusal to engage in negotiations about measures with which the EU wish to bind the UK to swathes of regulation and oversight from EU judges. The crucial week of negotiations that could mark the final hope for a deal will begin on Tuesday.
Barnier and Frost are set to have heated discussions from Tuesday.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-31--Boris Johnson replies to boy, 6, whose adorable get well message inspired him

A photograph of the Prime Minister holding the get-well message sent by Thomas Johnson , from Prestatyn in North Wales , was featured in newspapers and on websites around the world , including in the United States , Canada , China , South Korea and Italy .
Neither Thomas ’ s dad , Gary , a communications engineer , nor his mum , Aimmi , a theatre nurse , were aware of the worldwide attention their son ’ s artwork had attracted .
Gary said : “ As we are both key workers , Thomas ’ s mum suggested he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attending school during the lockdown .
Thomas returned from school with his card in a sealed envelope , so we just posted it off to 10 Downing Street without actually seeing his work .
“ It was only after receiving the letter from the Prime Minister that we then discovered that it had appeared in a number of national newspapers.
” Thomas ’ s family were not expecting the PM to find the time to pen a reply but a note came through the letter box .
His dad said : “ It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the letter last Thursday .
He was very cool about it , I think me and his mum were more excited.
” They now plan to “ get the letter framed and hang it on his bedroom wall alongside his other superheroes ” .
The Conservative leader said : “ Thank you so much for the wonderful message and good wishes you sent me when I was unwell .
The letters and cards I received really cheered me up .
“ As you may have heard , I ’ m back in 10 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Thank you also to you and your family for all you are doing to keep yourselves and others safe.
” James Davies , the Conservative MP for the Vale of Clwyd , said : “ I was very pleased to hear that Thomas ’ s card was one of the few , out of the many thousands sent , to feature in newspapers throughout the country .
It was a great design of a rainbow and a smiley face , with the words ‘ get well soon ’ neatly written .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kind actions .
I am sure , being the young age he is , he doesn ’ t appreciate the magnitude of receiving a personal letter from the Prime Minister , but his proud parents will and they can keep the letter safe to remind him when he is older of the generous act he carried out during this pandemic .
”

Boris Johnson replies to boy, 6, whose adorable get well message inspired him
A photograph of the Prime Minister holding the get-well message sent by Thomas Johnson, from Prestatyn in North Wales, was featured in newspapers and on websites around the world, including in the United States, Canada, China, South Korea and Italy. Neither Thomas’s dad, Gary, a communications engineer, nor his mum, Aimmi, a theatre nurse, were aware of the worldwide attention their son’s artwork had attracted.
Gary said: “As we are both key workers, Thomas’s mum suggested he made a get-well card for Boris whilst attending school during the lockdown. Thomas returned from school with his card in a sealed envelope, so we just posted it off to 10 Downing Street without actually seeing his work. “It was only after receiving the letter from the Prime Minister that we then discovered that it had appeared in a number of national newspapers.” Thomas’s family were not expecting the PM to find the time to pen a reply but a note came through the letter box. His dad said: “It was a real surprise when Thomas received the letter last Thursday. He was very cool about it, I think me and his mum were more excited.” They now plan to “get the letter framed and hang it on his bedroom wall alongside his other superheroes”.
Thomas Johnson's message was featured in newspapers and on websites around the world
The Conservative leader said: “Thank you so much for the wonderful message and good wishes you sent me when I was unwell. The letters and cards I received really cheered me up. “As you may have heard, I’m back in 10 Downing Street now and feeling much better. Thank you also to you and your family for all you are doing to keep yourselves and others safe.” James Davies, the Conservative MP for the Vale of Clwyd, said: “I was very pleased to hear that Thomas’s card was one of the few, out of the many thousands sent, to feature in newspapers throughout the country. It was a great design of a rainbow and a smiley face, with the words ‘get well soon’ neatly written. “I want to thank Thomas for his kind actions. I am sure, being the young age he is, he doesn’t appreciate the magnitude of receiving a personal letter from the Prime Minister, but his proud parents will and they can keep the letter safe to remind him when he is older of the generous act he carried out during this pandemic.”


thedailyexpress--2020-05-31--Former Tory MEP breaks cover to demand Brexit deadline EXTENDED 'you know it makes sense'