thedailyexpress--2020-05-20--Trade hopes flounder as EU battles to 'bind us to its laws'

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In a hard-hitting letter to Brussels , David Frost said the bloc was trying to fob Britain off with a `` low-quality trade deal '' , in contrast to its relationships with other countries .
He told his EU counterpart , Michel Barnier : `` It does not have to be like this . ''
Mr Frost , the head of the Prime Minister 's Taskforce Europe , spoke out after the Government released previously @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson 's blueprint for the future relationship between the EU and the UK .
Whitehall officials published the 13 legal texts , in an attempt to kick-start the stalled negotiations about a future trade deal .
Mr Frost 's warning to Brussels signalled that pressure is intensifying in the talks ahead of a deadline for progress next month set by Mr Johnson.In his letter to Mr Barnier , Mr Frost wrote : `` What is on offer , is not a fair free-trade relationship between close economic partners but a relatively low-quality trade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of our laws and institutions .
`` We find it perplexing that the EU , instead of seeking to settle rapidly a high-quality set of agreements with a close economic partner , is instead insisting on additional , unbalanced and unprecedented provisions in a range of areas , as a precondition for agreement between us . ''
Mr Frost said the EU 's proposals would `` bind this country to EU law or standards '' .
Pointing to a `` particularly egregious example '' , he said one EU proposal would tie the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ potentially hit UK trade with tariffs and leave the country under the rule of the European Court of Justice .

In a hard-hitting letter to Brussels, David Frost said the bloc was trying to fob Britain off with a "low-quality trade deal", in contrast to its relationships with other countries. He told his EU counterpart, Michel Barnier: "It does not have to be like this." Mr Frost, the head of the Prime Minister's Taskforce Europe, spoke out after the Government released previously confidential documents setting out details of Mr Johnson's blueprint for the future relationship between the EU and the UK.
Whitehall officials published the 13 legal texts, in an attempt to kick-start the stalled negotiations about a future trade deal.
Mr Frost's warning to Brussels signalled that pressure is intensifying in the talks ahead of a deadline for progress next month set by Mr Johnson.In his letter to Mr Barnier, Mr Frost wrote: "What is on offer, is not a fair free-trade relationship between close economic partners but a relatively low-quality trade agreement, coming with unprecedented EU oversight of our laws and institutions.
"We find it perplexing that the EU, instead of seeking to settle rapidly a high-quality set of agreements with a close economic partner, is instead insisting on additional, unbalanced and unprecedented provisions in a range of areas, as a precondition for agreement between us."
Mr Frost said the EU's proposals would "bind this country to EU law or standards". Pointing to a "particularly egregious example", he said one EU proposal would tie the UK into Brussels state aid rules, potentially hit UK trade with tariffs and leave the country under the rule of the European Court of Justice.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-20--UK gets tough on terrorists today with new law to end early release 'we are unafraid'

Home Secretary Priti Patel and Justice Secretary Robert Buckland , writing exclusively for the Daily Express , vowed no violent extremists will “ ever be released without a proper risk assessment ” .
They said the third anniversary of the Manchester terror attack on Friday , where Salman Abedi killed 22 people in a suicide bomb attack , “ demonstrates why we must put the rights of innocent people above the rights of hate-fuelled extremists ” .
Tough new laws being introduced to Parliament today will end the early release of dangerous terrorists and increase monitoring of offenders .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of offences “ where there was a likelihood of multiple deaths ” will carry a minimum 14-year sentence .
Such criminals could also be on licence for up to 25 years .
The most dangerous terrorists , given Extended Determinate Sentence , will be forced to spend their entire jail term behind bars if the offence carries a maximum sentence of life in prison .
Currently , these criminals can apply for release two thirds of the way through their punishment .
Terrorists now facing longer behind bars include those convicted of weapons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ preparation of terrorist acts , inciting terrorism overseas and training for terrorism .
Other extremists will only be eligible to apply to the Parole Board for release two-thirds of the way through their punishment .
Terrorists given life sentences will have to serve the minimum tariff set out by judges before the Parole Board will even consider their release .
Justice officials added that these extremists “ may therefore never be released ” .
Ms Patel and Mr Buckland said the terror attack in Fishmongers ’ Hall in November , where Usman Khan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and the Streatham attack where armed police gunned down Sudesh Amman as he stabbed innocent people “ brought home some hard truths ” .
They admitted the laws “ were simply not doing enough to protect our nation.
” They wrote : “ Friday ’ s third anniversary of the Manchester Arena attack is a devastating reminder of the tragic toll of terrorism on this country .
“ It demonstrates why we must put the rights of innocent people above the rights of hate-fuelled extremists .
“ Terrorism is an attack on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unafraid to do more to protect our people .
“ It ’ s time to get tough on terror .
“ These changes are strong and punitive – and we make no apologies for this .
“ If you seek to threaten our freedoms and way of life , your punishment will be tougher than ever before.
” Up to 50 terrorists being sentenced every year face longer behind bars under the proposed changes , the Daily Express has learned .
Judges will also be able to consider if an offence is “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ highlighted an example of a weapons dealer selling firearms .
If the buyer of the guns were planning to use them in an atrocity , they could now be sentenced under terrorism laws .
Mr Buckland added : “ Terrorists and their hateful ideologies have no place on our streets .
They can now expect to go to prison for longer and face tougher controls on release .
“ From introducing a 14-year minimum for the most dangerous offenders , to putting in place stricter monitoring measures , this government is pursuing every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keep communities safe.
” Terrorists convicted of being a member of a banned organisation , supporting a proscribed group , or attending a place used for terrorist training also face jail terms of up to 14 years - an increase from 10 years behind bars .
Every extremist convicted of terror offences must also spend at least 12 months on licence , the Ministry of Justice said yesterday .
More terrorists could also be placed under counter-terror orders known as TPIMs as officials are relaxing the burden of proof required to impose them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including enforced curfews of up to 10 hours , tagging , requiring a person to live up to 200 miles from their current address and restrictions on overseas travel .
Extremists could have their lives restricted indefinitely , under the proposals , as the maximum two-year time limit will be scrapped .
The Home Office has said the standard of proof for imposing a TPIM will be reduced from “ balance of probabilities ” to “ reasonable grounds for suspecting.
” This means Ms Patel must therefore have reasonable grounds for suspecting that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , involved in terrorism-related activity before imposing a TPIM notice .
They are the toughest tool the security services can use against people they believe to be involved in terrorism but who can not be prosecuted or deported .
The Home Secretary added : “ The shocking attacks at Fishmongers ’ Hall and Streatham revealed serious flaws in the way terrorist offenders are dealt with .
We promised to act and today we are delivering on that promise .
“ Those who senselessly seek to damage and destroy lives need to know we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them.
” It is easy to forget what our lives were like before coronavirus .
But as we fight this killer virus , we must remain alert to all threats to our nation and our people .
A despicable crime that has twice brought death and trauma to our streets in recent months , shattering innocent lives .
The horrific attacks at Fishmongers ’ Hall and in Streatham – and the suffering they caused - were a stark reminder of the ongoing danger .
These senseless acts were committed by terrorists whose early @ @ @ @ @ @ @ block - and this brought home some hard truths .
The laws we inherited were simply not doing enough to protect our nation .
An urgent change in approach was needed and this Government has not hesitated to make .
We refuse to allow those peddling hateful ideologies to return to our streets early and unchallenged .
It is simply not right that a terrorist can be released automatically before the end of their sentence .
The immediate action we took after the Streatham attack – which blocked the planned automatic release on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ today ’ s landmark legislation will stop this for good .
It means no dangerous terrorist can ever be released without a proper risk assessment .
The most serious offenders will serve their full sentence behind bars and a minimum of 14 years in jail .
And when they are released , they will face stricter monitoring than ever before , including lie detector tests .
Friday ’ s third anniversary of the Manchester Arena attack is a devastating reminder of the tragic toll of terrorism on this country .
It demonstrates why @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people above the rights of hate-fuelled extremists .
We owe it to the victims of terrorism , their families , and the law-abiding people of Britain , to keep these dangerous offenders off our streets .
And , when innocent people are tragically caught up in these evil attacks , we owe them the right support .
Terrorism is an attack on our way of life and we are unafraid to do more to protect our people .
It ’ s time to get tough on terror .
These changes are strong and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for this .
If you seek to threaten our freedoms and way of life , your punishment will be tougher than ever before .

Priti Patel on law to end early release of 'serious terror offenders'
Home Secretary Priti Patel and Justice Secretary Robert Buckland, writing exclusively for the Daily Express, vowed no violent extremists will “ever be released without a proper risk assessment”. They said the third anniversary of the Manchester terror attack on Friday, where Salman Abedi killed 22 people in a suicide bomb attack, “demonstrates why we must put the rights of innocent people above the rights of hate-fuelled extremists”. Tough new laws being introduced to Parliament today will end the early release of dangerous terrorists and increase monitoring of offenders.
A new Serious Terrorist Sentence for extremists convicted of offences “where there was a likelihood of multiple deaths” will carry a minimum 14-year sentence. Such criminals could also be on licence for up to 25 years. The most dangerous terrorists, given Extended Determinate Sentence, will be forced to spend their entire jail term behind bars if the offence carries a maximum sentence of life in prison. Currently, these criminals can apply for release two thirds of the way through their punishment. Terrorists now facing longer behind bars include those convicted of weapons training, directing a terrorist organisation, preparation of terrorist acts, inciting terrorism overseas and training for terrorism. Other extremists will only be eligible to apply to the Parole Board for release two-thirds of the way through their punishment. Terrorists given life sentences will have to serve the minimum tariff set out by judges before the Parole Board will even consider their release.
Home Secretary Priti Patel
Justice Secretary Robert Buckland
Justice officials added that these extremists “may therefore never be released”. Ms Patel and Mr Buckland said the terror attack in Fishmongers’ Hall in November, where Usman Khan killed two people in a knife rampage, and the Streatham attack where armed police gunned down Sudesh Amman as he stabbed innocent people “brought home some hard truths”. They admitted the laws “were simply not doing enough to protect our nation.” They wrote: “Friday’s third anniversary of the Manchester Arena attack is a devastating reminder of the tragic toll of terrorism on this country. “It demonstrates why we must put the rights of innocent people above the rights of hate-fuelled extremists. “Terrorism is an attack on our way of life and we are unafraid to do more to protect our people. “It’s time to get tough on terror. “These changes are strong and punitive – and we make no apologies for this.
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“If you seek to threaten our freedoms and way of life, your punishment will be tougher than ever before.” Up to 50 terrorists being sentenced every year face longer behind bars under the proposed changes, the Daily Express has learned. Judges will also be able to consider if an offence is “terror-related”. Ministry of Justice sources highlighted an example of a weapons dealer selling firearms. If the buyer of the guns were planning to use them in an atrocity, they could now be sentenced under terrorism laws. Mr Buckland added: “Terrorists and their hateful ideologies have no place on our streets. They can now expect to go to prison for longer and face tougher controls on release. “From introducing a 14-year minimum for the most dangerous offenders, to putting in place stricter monitoring measures, this government is pursuing every option available to tackle this threat and keep communities safe.” Terrorists convicted of being a member of a banned organisation, supporting a proscribed group, or attending a place used for terrorist training also face jail terms of up to 14 years - an increase from 10 years behind bars.
Sudesh Amman stabbed innocent people
Every extremist convicted of terror offences must also spend at least 12 months on licence, the Ministry of Justice said yesterday. More terrorists could also be placed under counter-terror orders known as TPIMs as officials are relaxing the burden of proof required to impose them. These include a range of measures including enforced curfews of up to 10 hours, tagging, requiring a person to live up to 200 miles from their current address and restrictions on overseas travel. Extremists could have their lives restricted indefinitely, under the proposals, as the maximum two-year time limit will be scrapped. The Home Office has said the standard of proof for imposing a TPIM will be reduced from “balance of probabilities” to “reasonable grounds for suspecting.” This means Ms Patel must therefore have reasonable grounds for suspecting that an individual is, or has been, involved in terrorism-related activity before imposing a TPIM notice. They are the toughest tool the security services can use against people they believe to be involved in terrorism but who cannot be prosecuted or deported.
The Home Secretary added: “The shocking attacks at Fishmongers’ Hall and Streatham revealed serious flaws in the way terrorist offenders are dealt with. We promised to act and today we are delivering on that promise. “Those who senselessly seek to damage and destroy lives need to know we will do whatever it takes to stop them.” COMMENT Lord Chancellor Robert Buckland and Home Secretary Priti Patel It is easy to forget what our lives were like before coronavirus. But as we fight this killer virus, we must remain alert to all threats to our nation and our people. That includes terrorism.
A despicable crime that has twice brought death and trauma to our streets in recent months, shattering innocent lives. The horrific attacks at Fishmongers’ Hall and in Streatham – and the suffering they caused - were a stark reminder of the ongoing danger. These senseless acts were committed by terrorists whose early release from prison we were powerless to block - and this brought home some hard truths. The laws we inherited were simply not doing enough to protect our nation. An urgent change in approach was needed and this Government has not hesitated to make. We refuse to allow those peddling hateful ideologies to return to our streets early and unchallenged. It is simply not right that a terrorist can be released automatically before the end of their sentence. The immediate action we took after the Streatham attack – which blocked the planned automatic release on licence of terrorists in prison - and today’s landmark legislation will stop this for good. It means no dangerous terrorist can ever be released without a proper risk assessment. The most serious offenders will serve their full sentence behind bars and a minimum of 14 years in jail.
A police officer stands next to where Usman Khan was shot, on London Bridge


thedailyexpress--2020-05-20--Cabinet minister blames scientists for getting it wrong on coronavirus testing

Opening a rift with Whitehall officials , Therese Coffey insisted the Government had been following expert guidance when the decision to wind down testing in the community was taken early in the epidemic .
Ministers could “ only make judgements and decisions based on the information and advice that we have at the time , ” the Work and Pensions Secretary said in a Sky News interview .
“ If the science advice at the time was wrong I am not surprised people think we made the wrong decision , ” she added .
Ms Coffey spoke out in response @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s handling of testing for coronavirus from the Commons Science and Technology Committee .
Around 15,000 elderly care home residents have died with the virus in England and Wales while the Government prioritised testing in hospitals when testing capacity was limited in the early stages of the outbreak .
In a letter to the Prime Minister assessing evidence to the committee during the pandemic , its chairman Greg Clark said : `` Testing capacity has been inadequate for most of the pandemic so far .
`` Capacity was not increased early enough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , rather than strategy driving capacity . ''
Mr Clark , a former Tory Cabinet minister , also said Public Health England ( PHE ) had repeatedly failed to answer questions over the `` pivotal '' decision to ignore mass testing in favour of other tactics .
He said : `` The decision to pursue an approach of initially concentrating testing in a limited number of laboratories and to expand them gradually , rather than an approach of surging capacity through a large number of available public sector , research institute , university @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most consequential made during this crisis .
`` From it followed the decision on March 12 to cease testing in the community and retreat to testing principally within hospitals . ''
He said the decision meant that residents in care homes and care home workers could not be tested at a time when the spread of the virus was at its most rampant .
Mr Clark added : `` Had the public bodies responsible in this space themselves taken the initiative at the beginning of February , or even the beginning of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Secretary of State imposed a target on April 2 , knowledge of the spread of the pandemic and decisions about the response to it may have made more options available to decision makers at earlier stages . ''
Defending the Government ’ s action , Ms Coffey said : `` We had a small amount of capacity at the very start , it was solely based on Public Health England 's capability of being able to have about 2,000 tests a day .
`` We had little capacity early on , I recognise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of capacity now .
`` I think from pretty much a standing start , roughly in about mid-February I think it was , to get to a capacity and actual tests being done of 100,000 within about six weeks , I think is pretty full-on and actually I think something we can look on with pride . ''
Last night , Environment Secretary George Eustice also rejected the assertion that the Government had made mistakes in the effort to shield care homes .
He told the daily Downing Street press conference : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we took an approach that was wrong .
`` Very early on in this epidemic we had protocols in place for care homes , there was guidance as to how they should approach things .
`` As the situation developed then more stringent policies were introduced by way of policy around discharge and we got to the point where everybody was tested before discharge .
`` But in those early weeks there will have been some instances where people may have been discharged who were asymptomatic , there may have been some - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they may have been showing symptoms but would have been isolating .
`` That was the guidance at the time that was in place but we have strengthened that very much ever since then , we now have testing and a rigorous discharge policy that 's in place and that is getting stronger all the time . ''
Dame Angela McLean , deputy chief scientific adviser , told the briefing : `` The advice that we gave certainly took account of what testing was available .
`` It was the best thing to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We could not have people in hospital with Covid symptoms not knowing whether or not they had Covid . ''
Asked then if the advice given was based on the capacity at the time , Dame Angela said : `` I think that 's what I just said , yes . ''
Dame Angela acknowledged that claims in the committee report of a lack of transparency over the advice given to ministers would be a `` big issue '' in a future inquiry into the handling of the crisis .
She said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on trying to give really high quality advice , completely rooted in evidence . ''
She said she `` had n't spent much time worrying about how secretive or not secretive it is '' .
`` I can see that is going to be a big issue when we have a big look back .
`` I would be more inclined to address that then . ''
The head of care home providers yesterday launched a stinging attack on the Government over its handling of the crisis .

Piers Morgan shuts down Therese Coffey's testing claims
Opening a rift with Whitehall officials, Therese Coffey insisted the Government had been following expert guidance when the decision to wind down testing in the community was taken early in the epidemic. Ministers could “only make judgements and decisions based on the information and advice that we have at the time,” the Work and Pensions Secretary said in a Sky News interview. “If the science advice at the time was wrong I am not surprised people think we made the wrong decision,” she added.
Ms Coffey spoke out in response to a scathing report about the Government’s handling of testing for coronavirus from the Commons Science and Technology Committee. Around 15,000 elderly care home residents have died with the virus in England and Wales while the Government prioritised testing in hospitals when testing capacity was limited in the early stages of the outbreak. In a letter to the Prime Minister assessing evidence to the committee during the pandemic, its chairman Greg Clark said: "Testing capacity has been inadequate for most of the pandemic so far. "Capacity was not increased early enough or boldly enough. Capacity drove strategy, rather than strategy driving capacity." Mr Clark, a former Tory Cabinet minister, also said Public Health England (PHE) had repeatedly failed to answer questions over the "pivotal" decision to ignore mass testing in favour of other tactics. He said: "The decision to pursue an approach of initially concentrating testing in a limited number of laboratories and to expand them gradually, rather than an approach of surging capacity through a large number of available public sector, research institute, university and private sector labs is one of the most consequential made during this crisis. "From it followed the decision on March 12 to cease testing in the community and retreat to testing principally within hospitals."
Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey
He said the decision meant that residents in care homes and care home workers could not be tested at a time when the spread of the virus was at its most rampant. Mr Clark added: "Had the public bodies responsible in this space themselves taken the initiative at the beginning of February, or even the beginning of March, rather than waiting until the Secretary of State imposed a target on April 2, knowledge of the spread of the pandemic and decisions about the response to it may have made more options available to decision makers at earlier stages." Defending the Government’s action, Ms Coffey said: "We had a small amount of capacity at the very start, it was solely based on Public Health England's capability of being able to have about 2,000 tests a day. "We had little capacity early on, I recognise that, we have got a lot of capacity now. "I think from pretty much a standing start, roughly in about mid-February I think it was, to get to a capacity and actual tests being done of 100,000 within about six weeks, I think is pretty full-on and actually I think something we can look on with pride." Last night, Environment Secretary George Eustice also rejected the assertion that the Government had made mistakes in the effort to shield care homes.
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Environment Secretary George Eustice
He told the daily Downing Street press conference: "We don't accept the caricature that we took an approach that was wrong. "Very early on in this epidemic we had protocols in place for care homes, there was guidance as to how they should approach things. "As the situation developed then more stringent policies were introduced by way of policy around discharge and we got to the point where everybody was tested before discharge. "But in those early weeks there will have been some instances where people may have been discharged who were asymptomatic, there may have been some - a small number of instances - where they may have been showing symptoms but would have been isolating. "That was the guidance at the time that was in place but we have strengthened that very much ever since then, we now have testing and a rigorous discharge policy that's in place and that is getting stronger all the time." Dame Angela McLean, deputy chief scientific adviser, told the briefing: "The advice that we gave certainly took account of what testing was available. "It was the best thing to do with the tests that we had. We could not have people in hospital with Covid symptoms not knowing whether or not they had Covid."
Dame Angela McLean, deputy chief scientific adviser
Asked then if the advice given was based on the capacity at the time, Dame Angela said: "I think that's what I just said, yes." Dame Angela acknowledged that claims in the committee report of a lack of transparency over the advice given to ministers would be a "big issue" in a future inquiry into the handling of the crisis. She said: "We have been very focused on trying to give really high quality advice, completely rooted in evidence." She said she "hadn't spent much time worrying about how secretive or not secretive it is". "I can see that is going to be a big issue when we have a big look back. "I would be more inclined to address that then." The head of care home providers yesterday launched a stinging attack on the Government over its handling of the crisis.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-21--Still bitter about Brexit? Verhofstadt mocked after Patel dig - 'You're not laughing now!'

Committed europhile Mr Verhofstadt , a persistent critic of the UK 's decision to quit the bloc , made his remarks in response to Home Secretary Priti Patel , who tweeted : `` We ’ re ending free movement to open Britain up to the world . ''
Mr Verhofstadt , who was the Leader of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe in the assembly , from 2009 to 2019 , said : `` Scoop !
Britain is the first country in world history to open up by pulling up the drawbridge !
`` The sad reality behind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for continental Europeans and British people alike .
Everyone loses . ''
Mr Verhofstadt 's remark triggered a lengthy debate on Twitter , with 3,400 comments , many of them highly scornful in tone .
One said : `` Nothing pleases me more than seeing how triggered you are by Brexit becoming a reality .
`` All that hard work you did to try and overturn a democratic vote failed .
Thanks Guy , I needed that . ''
Another added : `` It hurts you Guy , the fact that we have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , to think you once laughed we would be a colony of the EU .
`` Well , you 're not laughing now , enjoy your new Baltic nations net contributors will have to subsidise , lucky we don ’ t have to . ''
JUST IN : Blast off !
UK rockets could launch from British spaceport NEXT YEAR '' Do n't you like the fact that we 've levelled up the playing field so that people outside of EUland now have the same opportunity to come here . ''
Another Twitter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU 's own rules , saying : `` So why should a labourer from Bulgaria get preferential treatment over a Kenyan doctor , a Malaysian nurse , an Australian teacher , a Canadian tech wizard , an Indian chef or a Japanese scientist ?
DO N'T MISS BBC host shuts down Jeremy Hunt 's coronavirus demands with two words [ VIDEO ] Piers Morgan infuriates GMB viewers as he rages at Dr Hilary [ VIDEO ] UK lockdown : Express.co.uk readers to stay at home despite new freedom [ POLL ] '' Because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' is . ''
Others suggested Mr Verhofstadt would do better to consider the factors which led to Brexit in the first place .
One said : `` Shouldn ’ t have tried to make us a vassal state then ... ..should have treated us as the sovereign nation we voted to be and not tried to overturn our decision . ''
Another added : `` Doh !
Poor old Verhofstadt STILL has n't worked out it was his EU freedoms and opportunities that CAUSED Brexit . ''
Some , however , were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comment , with one saying : `` I 'm an angry Brit .
I hate that we are doing this .
I want to remain part of the EU and unfortunately we are stuck with people who dont understand the benefits of being part of a greater movement .
Better for people and better fiscally .
Mr Verhofstadt has made frequent use of social media to push his views on Brexit since the 2016 referendum .
After Theresa May 's EU Withdrawal Bill was defeated in the Commons in December 2017 , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he swiftly mocked the Leave campaign 's 'Take Back Control ' slogan .

Brexit: Guy Verhofstadt says UK will rejoin EU one day
Committed europhile Mr Verhofstadt, a persistent critic of the UK's decision to quit the bloc, made his remarks in response to Home Secretary Priti Patel, who tweeted: "We’re ending free movement to open Britain up to the world." Mr Verhofstadt, who was the Leader of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe in the assembly, from 2009 to 2019, said: "Scoop! Britain is the first country in world history to open up by pulling up the drawbridge!
Nothing pleases me more than seeing how triggered you are by Brexit becoming a reality Twitter user
"The sad reality behind this newspeak: less freedoms & opportunities for continental Europeans and British people alike. Everyone loses." Mr Verhofstadt's remark triggered a lengthy debate on Twitter, with 3,400 comments, many of them highly scornful in tone. One said: "Nothing pleases me more than seeing how triggered you are by Brexit becoming a reality.
Guy Verhofstadt was mocked after taking a swipe at Priti Patel
Guy Verhofstadt's response to Mrs Patel's tweet
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"All that hard work you did to try and overturn a democratic vote failed. Thanks Guy, I needed that." Another added: "It hurts you Guy, the fact that we have left, that pleases me so much, to think you once laughed we would be a colony of the EU. "Well, you're not laughing now, enjoy your new Baltic nations net contributors will have to subsidise, lucky we don’t have to." JUST IN: Blast off! UK rockets could launch from British spaceport NEXT YEAR
Priti Patel's original tweet
Guy Verhofstadt has served as the European Parliament's Brexit representative
One suggested Mr Verhofstadt did not like the new level playing field
Another said Mr Verhofstadt was "triggered" by the reality of Brexit
"Because that's what EU 'freedom of movement' is." Others suggested Mr Verhofstadt would do better to consider the factors which led to Brexit in the first place. One said: "Shouldn’t have tried to make us a vassal state then .....should have treated us as the sovereign nation we voted to be and not tried to overturn our decision." Another added: "Doh! Poor old Verhofstadt STILL hasn't worked out it was his EU freedoms and opportunities that CAUSED Brexit."
Priti Patel factfile
Some, however, were quick to praise Mr Verhofstadt for his comment, with one saying: "I'm an angry Brit. I hate that we are doing this. I want to remain part of the EU and unfortunately we are stuck with people who dont understand the benefits of being part of a greater movement. Better for people and better fiscally. "Will always remain European. Mr Verhofstadt has made frequent use of social media to push his views on Brexit since the 2016 referendum. After Theresa May's EU Withdrawal Bill was defeated in the Commons in December 2017, with 11 Tory rebels voting against the Government, he swiftly mocked the Leave campaign's 'Take Back Control' slogan.
Guy Verhofstadt has been a frequent critic of Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage
Another pointed out perceived flaws in the EU's own policies
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-05-20--Boris told to ditch Brexit talks with 'bullying' EU now - 'Enough is enough!'

The UK 's chief Brexit negotiator David Frost condemned the European Union for not offering the UK a fair free trade agreement in a furious letter sent to Brussels .
In a stern four-page letter sent to EU counterpart Michel Barnier , Mr Frost accused the bloc of offering the UK a “ low-quality trade agreement ” which would leave the UK bound by EU laws and regulations .
Mr Frost also lashed out at Brussels for slowing down the progress of talks by continuing to put up a number of “ unprecedented provisions ” to any deal .
Now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ latest developments around Brexit , readers have overwhelmingly backed the Prime Minister to walk away from negotiations with the EU .
The poll , which ran from 10am until 9pm on Wednesday , May 20 and saw a huge 15,326 votes cast , asked : `` Should Boris just walk away from EU negotiations after Frost letter ? ''
A huge 96 percent ( 14,618 readers ) backed the Prime Minister to turn his back on negotiations with Brussels .
The remaining four percent ( 652 people ) disagreed , while less than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` do n't know '' .
Express.co.uk readers immediately lashed out at the EU and have been infuriated by their tactics during negotiations .
One reader said : `` It has all become a major embarrassment .
The EU has for years treated us as a weak and pathetic country , bullying and demanding .
`` To save further loss of face , we must just leave , and not waste more time trying to make further compromises .
We have given them enough . ''
A second person commented : `` During @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t been any negotiations .
`` Just an attempt by the EU to prevent the UK from ever leaving and for the UK to continue to pay for the EU dream to create a federal state of Europe -- BUT with never actually informing the people of Europe of this vanity/fantasy project . ''
A third reader wrote : `` We 've told them exactly what we want , and they have a little over seven months to agree to it .
Any more talk on the matter is a waste of time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concentrating on the USA , Australia , New Zealand , Japan , South Korea and the rest of the commonwealth .
The British public will not accept or condone any capitulation . ''
One reader offered Mr Johnson words of advice , and said : `` Send the message - we have had enough let them fight among themselves , it is time for Britain to start putting its citizens first and foremost .
`` The EU can look after itself ! ''
This week , the Government piled the pressure on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which outline the UK ’ s vision for a comprehensive free trade agreement .
Mr Frost said : “ Overall , at this moment in negotiations , what is on offer is not a fair free trade relationship between close economic partners , but a relatively low-quality trade agreement coming with unprecedented EU oversight of our laws and institutions .
“ We find it perplexing that the EU , instead of seeking to settle rapidly a high-quality set of agreements with a close economic partner , is instead insisting on additional , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ range of areas , as a precondition for agreement between us.
” After the documents were made available , Mr Barnier took a swipe at the UK by stating the EU published its papers two months ago and called for more progress to be made in the next round of talks .

Brexit: Nigel Farage says EU will ‘probably cave’ to demands
The UK's chief Brexit negotiator David Frost condemned the European Union for not offering the UK a fair free trade agreement in a furious letter sent to Brussels. In a stern four-page letter sent to EU counterpart Michel Barnier, Mr Frost accused the bloc of offering the UK a “low-quality trade agreement” which would leave the UK bound by EU laws and regulations. Mr Frost also lashed out at Brussels for slowing down the progress of talks by continuing to put up a number of “unprecedented provisions” to any deal.
Now in an Express.co.uk poll focusing on the latest developments around Brexit, readers have overwhelmingly backed the Prime Minister to walk away from negotiations with the EU. The poll, which ran from 10am until 9pm on Wednesday, May 20 and saw a huge 15,326 votes cast, asked: "Should Boris just walk away from EU negotiations after Frost letter?" A huge 96 percent (14,618 readers) backed the Prime Minister to turn his back on negotiations with Brussels. The remaining four percent (652 people) disagreed, while less than one percent (56 people) voted "don't know".
Brexit news: Express.co.uk readers have told the PM to walk away from talks with the EU
Brexit news: Trade talks between the UK and EU began in March
Express.co.uk readers immediately lashed out at the EU and have been infuriated by their tactics during negotiations. One reader said: "It has all become a major embarrassment. The EU has for years treated us as a weak and pathetic country, bullying and demanding. "To save further loss of face, we must just leave, and not waste more time trying to make further compromises. We have given them enough." A second person commented: "During the last four years there haven’t been any negotiations.
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Brexit news: Express.co.uk readers have given their full backing to Boris Johnson
"Just an attempt by the EU to prevent the UK from ever leaving and for the UK to continue to pay for the EU dream to create a federal state of Europe --BUT with never actually informing the people of Europe of this vanity/fantasy project." A third reader wrote: "We've told them exactly what we want, and they have a little over seven months to agree to it. Any more talk on the matter is a waste of time and resources. "We should be concentrating on the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea and the rest of the commonwealth. The British public will not accept or condone any capitulation." One reader offered Mr Johnson words of advice, and said: "Send the message - we have had enough let them fight among themselves, it is time for Britain to start putting its citizens first and foremost. "The EU can look after itself!"
Brexit news: Michel Barnier hit back at the UK negotiating team
Brexit news: Boris Johnson wants a trade deal signed with the EU before the end of the transition period
This week, the Government piled the pressure on the EU by publishing 12 draft legal documents, which outline the UK’s vision for a comprehensive free trade agreement. Mr Frost said: “Overall, at this moment in negotiations, what is on offer is not a fair free trade relationship between close economic partners, but a relatively low-quality trade agreement coming with unprecedented EU oversight of our laws and institutions. “We find it perplexing that the EU, instead of seeking to settle rapidly a high-quality set of agreements with a close economic partner, is instead insisting on additional, unbalanced, and unprecedented provisions in a range of areas, as a precondition for agreement between us.” After the documents were made available, Mr Barnier took a swipe at the UK by stating the EU published its papers two months ago and called for more progress to be made in the next round of talks.
Brexit news: The transition period is due to end on December 31, 2020
He wrote on Twitter: “I welcome the UK’s publication of draft legal texts today. “Transparency is very important in negotiations. The European Commission published a comprehensive legal agreement over two months ago. “In the next round, we must make tangible progress across all areas.” The UK and EU have so far held three separate rounds of Brexit talks without making much progress.
Brexit news: David Frost has lashed out at the EU during trade negotiations
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-05-20--Jacob Rees-Mogg humiliates Lib Dem MP in brutal Commons clash: 'I shall ignore you!'

The former Deputy Chief Whip under the Liberal Democrat-Conservative coalition Government said Boris Johnson 's Government wants MPs to undertake `` non-essential journeys '' to return to Parliament during the coronavirus crisis , adding : `` In my case , almost the entire length of this country , to stay in second homes - something which when done by leading Government advisers led to their resignation .
If ever there was a case of do as I say , not as I do , then this is it . ''
Mr Carmichael said he found the virtual arrangements `` stilted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` If it 's a choice between that and putting the safety of members , their families and staff of the House at risk , then that is no choice at all and it should only end when safe to do so . ''
He said it has been reported the motivation for the MPs ' return is to `` get a support act '' behind Boris Johnson at Prime Minister 's Questions , adding it had been claimed Mr Rees-Mogg suggested `` perspex screens '' should be installed in the chamber to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has obviously told him how things are being done at Tesco these days , '' Mr Carmichael added .
But Leader of the House Jacob Rees-Mogg promptly hit back at the Lib Dems MP saying his comments were `` beneath him '' .
READ MORE : Speaker erupts in furious Commons row as he demands Matt Hancock LEAVE Mr Rees-Mogg said the point raised about bolstering support for Mr Johnson at PMQs is a `` fundamentally trivial one '' , and he would `` ignore '' it , adding the chamber 's return @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He said : “ I am very sorry that the Right Honourable Gentleman doesn ’ t think that proper scrutiny of the Government is an essential task of democracy .
“ I think it ’ s an extraordinary position for a former member of the government and a leading figure , if the Liberal Party has leading figures , but a leading figure in the Liberal Party , to take .
“ Democratic accountability is fundamental to how our system works.
” He added : `` People working in the House , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to work safely and the numbers expected to come in are not thought likely to rise significantly when the House returns at Whitsun . ''
Shadow Commons leader Valerie Vaz asked if Mr Rees-Mogg had held talks with Public Health England and urged him to publish any advice it had given him .
She added to Mr Rees-Mogg : `` He keeps saying if others are going to work , the Government expects us to go to work - we are at work , we are at work at all times and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can work from home then do so . ''
Ms Vaz also pressed for answers on how Commons staff will be protected , with Mr Rees-Mogg having said the House authorities have said Parliament will be a `` Covid-19 secure workplace by the time we come back after the Whitsun recess '' and that a risk assessment has been carried out .
Mr Rees-Mogg added : `` There 's extra cleaning going on , the same mechanisms will be used ... as are used on the London Underground to try and ensure there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ian Blackford shamed as Boris hits back at SNP sniping [ VIDEO ] PMQs LIVE : Boris Johnson faces Keir Starmer as parents demand answers [ LIVE BLOG ] 'Answer for your decisions ! '
Davidson rages at Sturgeon over COVID-19 [ INTERVIEW ]

Jacob Rees-Mogg mocks Lib Dems over ‘lack of leading figure’
The former Deputy Chief Whip under the Liberal Democrat-Conservative coalition Government said Boris Johnson's Government wants MPs to undertake "non-essential journeys" to return to Parliament during the coronavirus crisis, adding: "In my case, almost the entire length of this country, to stay in second homes - something which when done by leading Government advisers led to their resignation. If ever there was a case of do as I say, not as I do, then this is it."
Mr Carmichael said he found the virtual arrangements "stilted and artificial", but added: "If it's a choice between that and putting the safety of members, their families and staff of the House at risk, then that is no choice at all and it should only end when safe to do so." He said it has been reported the motivation for the MPs' return is to "get a support act" behind Boris Johnson at Prime Minister's Questions, adding it had been claimed Mr Rees-Mogg suggested "perspex screens" should be installed in the chamber to get more MPs inside. "Someone has obviously told him how things are being done at Tesco these days," Mr Carmichael added. But Leader of the House Jacob Rees-Mogg promptly hit back at the Lib Dems MP saying his comments were "beneath him". READ MORE: Speaker erupts in furious Commons row as he demands Matt Hancock LEAVE
Jacob Rees-Mogg said Alistair Carmichael point on coroanvirus was 'trivial'
Coronavirus: Alistair Carmichael said Rees-Mogg wants MPs to undertake 'non-essential journeys'
Mr Rees-Mogg said the point raised about bolstering support for Mr Johnson at PMQs is a "fundamentally trivial one", and he would "ignore" it, adding the chamber's return will be in line with Government advice. He said: “I am very sorry that the Right Honourable Gentleman doesn’t think that proper scrutiny of the Government is an essential task of democracy. “I think it’s an extraordinary position for a former member of the government and a leading figure, if the Liberal Party has leading figures, but a leading figure in the Liberal Party, to take. “Democratic accountability is fundamental to how our system works.” He added: "People working in the House, the employees of the House are able to work safely and the numbers expected to come in are not thought likely to rise significantly when the House returns at Whitsun."
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PMQs: Johnson confirms NHS and social care worker death toll
Shadow Commons leader Valerie Vaz asked if Mr Rees-Mogg had held talks with Public Health England and urged him to publish any advice it had given him. She added to Mr Rees-Mogg: "He keeps saying if others are going to work, the Government expects us to go to work - we are at work, we are at work at all times and the Government's own advice is if you can work from home then do so." Ms Vaz also pressed for answers on how Commons staff will be protected, with Mr Rees-Mogg having said the House authorities have said Parliament will be a "Covid-19 secure workplace by the time we come back after the Whitsun recess" and that a risk assessment has been carried out. Mr Rees-Mogg added: "There's extra cleaning going on, the same mechanisms will be used... as are used on the London Underground to try and ensure there's safety. DON'T MISS:
Ian Blackford shamed as Boris hits back at SNP sniping [VIDEO]
PMQs LIVE: Boris Johnson faces Keir Starmer as parents demand answers [LIVE BLOG]
'Answer for your decisions!' Davidson rages at Sturgeon over COVID-19 [INTERVIEW]
Jacob Rees-Mogg called on MPs to return to work in the House of Commons
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-05-20--Michael Gove says Northern Ireland's position in UK is protected in EU trade talks

The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster stated the EU has an exercise called `` variable geometry '' to help protect Northern Ireland in the UK 's Brexit negotiations .
Mr Gove told the House of Commons that Northern Ireland 's position within the UK is `` constitutionally secure '' and unchanged .
Conservative MP William Wragg said : `` The way in which the UK and European Union seek to address Northern Irelands unique geographic situation as part of the negotiations could have constitutional and practical implications for Northern Ireland ’ s status in the UK .
`` Can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the current trajectory of talks and impossible objectives ? ''
Mr Gove replied : `` That circle can be squared using what I believe is known in the EU as variable geometry `` The truth , of course , is that Northern Ireland 's position in the UK is constitutionally secure and unchanged . ''
It comes as last week Lord Marvyn King , former Bank of England Governor , stated it is `` immensely fortunate '' that Britain is not in the EU 's Monetary Union as Germany questions the European @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' Ian King said : `` Earlier this month Germany ’ s highest court ruled that some elements of European central banks buying German debt was unconstitutional .
`` Is this another threat to the stability of the eurozone ? ''
Lord King replied : `` Yes I think it is but I don ’ t think you should blame the German constitutional court .
`` They were merely interpreting the European Treaty and the conditions under which Germany joined the Monetary Union .
`` The trouble is the members of the Monetary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fact that the need for a fiscal union to try and keep the Monetary Union going is quite inconsistent with the conditions that were set at the beginning .
`` Only a new European treaty can deal with this .
`` I think it is immensely fortunate that Britain is not in the Monetary Union . ''
DO N'T MISS Sturgeon blasted for Scotland 's poor position to succeed post-Brexit [ INSIGHT ] Liberal Democrats suffer Brexit backlash for coronavirus Remain excuse [ INSIGHT ] Liberal Democrats humiliated as they FINALLY admit Brexit @ @ @ @

Gove says EU will use 'variable geometry' with Northern Ireland
The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster stated the EU has an exercise called "variable geometry" to help protect Northern Ireland in the UK's Brexit negotiations. Mr Gove told the House of Commons that Northern Ireland's position within the UK is "constitutionally secure" and unchanged.
Conservative MP William Wragg said: "The way in which the UK and European Union seek to address Northern Irelands unique geographic situation as part of the negotiations could have constitutional and practical implications for Northern Ireland’s status in the UK. "Can you square that circle or is it on the current trajectory of talks and impossible objectives?" Mr Gove replied: "That circle can be squared using what I believe is known in the EU as variable geometry "The truth, of course, is that Northern Ireland's position in the UK is constitutionally secure and unchanged." READ MORE: Furious caller savages Brexit blocking MPs in scathing rant
Michael Give is the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster
The countries that will be hit hardest by a no deal Brexit
It comes as last week Lord Marvyn King, former Bank of England Governor, stated it is "immensely fortunate" that Britain is not in the EU's Monetary Union as Germany questions the European Central Bank's policy. Sky News' Ian King said: "Earlier this month Germany’s highest court ruled that some elements of European central banks buying German debt was unconstitutional. "Is this another threat to the stability of the eurozone?" Lord King replied: "Yes I think it is but I don’t think you should blame the German constitutional court.
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Mervyn King: Britain ‘fortunate’ to not be in Monetary Union
"They were merely interpreting the European Treaty and the conditions under which Germany joined the Monetary Union. "The trouble is the members of the Monetary Union have never faced up to the fact that the need for a fiscal union to try and keep the Monetary Union going is quite inconsistent with the conditions that were set at the beginning. "Only a new European treaty can deal with this. "I think it is immensely fortunate that Britain is not in the Monetary Union." DON'T MISS
Sturgeon blasted for Scotland's poor position to succeed post-Brexit [INSIGHT]
Liberal Democrats suffer Brexit backlash for coronavirus Remain excuse [INSIGHT]
Liberal Democrats humiliated as they FINALLY admit Brexit mistake [VIDEO]
The 2016 EU referendum result
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thedailyexpress--2020-05-20--Michael Gove dismantles Remainer Hilary Benn's Brexit warning with THREE words

The Labour MP for Leeds Central warned goods coming from the European Union subject to a 10 percent tariff to be paid to the UK after the Brexit transition period ends could enter the country undetected unless a free trade agreement with the Brussels bloc is agreed .
But Mr Gove shut down the claim with three simple words , insisting anyone breaking the law would `` face the consequences '' .
Speaking in the Commons via video link , Mr Benn said : “ We all hope there will be a trade agreement with the EU but if there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stop goods such as cars made in the EU , which under the circumstances would attract a 10 percent tariff , from entering Great Britain via Northern Ireland tariff-free .
“ The Right Honourable Gentleman just told the House would goods have unfettered access through Northern Ireland to GB , or would there , in fact , have to be checks if people try to do that ?
” Michael Gove , who updated the Commons on the Northern Ireland border issue post-Brexit on Wednesday , promptly dismissed the Labour MP 's warning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ll have market surveillance and if people try to break the law they will face the consequences.
” Britain said on Wednesday it saw no need for new customs infrastructure with Northern Ireland as it unveiled its proposals for how the border with the province would work next year when a status-quo transition period ends with the EU .
READ MORE : UK set to infuriate EU bosses with plans for Northern Irish border The UK left the EU in January and has until the end of this year to negotiate an agreement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a trade agreement , which some businesses say could cause costly delays and confusion at borders .
Northern Ireland , which is part of the United Kingdom but shares a land border with EU member Ireland , hampered any agreement between Britain and the bloc until late last year when Prime Minister Boris Johnson agreed to a so-called protocol .
The EU says the Northern Ireland protocol requires customs checks and controls on some goods coming from mainland Britain into the province in case they were headed further into Ireland and the bloc @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the proposals as the heart of `` a consensual , pragmatic approach '' .
`` Implementing the protocol in this way will ensure we can support businesses and citizens , and protect Northern Ireland 's place in the UK 's customs territory while upholding our commitments to the EU 's Single Market , '' he said .
The Government acknowledged , however , `` there will be some limited additional process on goods arriving in Northern Ireland . ''
`` There will be no new physical customs infrastructure and we see no need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , however , expand some existing entry points for agrifood goods to provide for proportionate additional controls . ''
Boris Johnson has repeatedly said , that while the government will comply with the obligations set out in the protocol , it does not see that entailing new checks on goods , saying it already complies with requirements for live animals and agrifoods .
Brexit rift : EU 'certifiably mad ' to refuse free trade deal with UK [ INSIGHT ] How Barnier claimed 'UK likely to end up with Canada-style deal ’ [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just walk away from EU negotiations ?
[ POLL ] But officials say there will have to be some additional checkpoints , and the EU has become increasingly critical of London 's refusal to explain how they would deal with the border .
Addressing Mr Gove in the Commons , Shadow Cabinet Office minister Rachel Reeves said that `` many fear '' the Government is not willing to admit the full extent of additional checks and tariffs on goods .
She told the Commons : `` We welcome the statement today but it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Prime Minister .
Today there has been an admission , for the first time , that there will be additional checks , that there will be tariffs on goods at risk of entering the single market .
`` Even now , many fear that the Government are not willing to admit the full extent of those .
We have seven months to get this right and we must . ''
Mr Gove responded : `` The approach that we 've taken is designed to ensure the maximum level of security for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protocol is implemented in line with our approach that means they will have unfettered access to the rest of the UK 's internal market and also free access to the EU 's single market .
`` That is a great prize and one that I believe all businesses in Northern Ireland would want us to help them to grasp . ''

Michael Gove shuts down Hilary Benn over Brexit claim
The Labour MP for Leeds Central warned goods coming from the European Union subject to a 10 percent tariff to be paid to the UK after the Brexit transition period ends could enter the country undetected unless a free trade agreement with the Brussels bloc is agreed. But Mr Gove shut down the claim with three simple words, insisting anyone breaking the law would "face the consequences". Speaking in the Commons via video link, Mr Benn said: “We all hope there will be a trade agreement with the EU but if there isn’t how will the Government stop goods such as cars made in the EU, which under the circumstances would attract a 10 percent tariff, from entering Great Britain via Northern Ireland tariff-free.
“The Right Honourable Gentleman just told the House would goods have unfettered access through Northern Ireland to GB, or would there, in fact, have to be checks if people try to do that?” Michael Gove, who updated the Commons on the Northern Ireland border issue post-Brexit on Wednesday, promptly dismissed the Labour MP's warning. He said: “We’ll have market surveillance and if people try to break the law they will face the consequences.” Britain said on Wednesday it saw no need for new customs infrastructure with Northern Ireland as it unveiled its proposals for how the border with the province would work next year when a status-quo transition period ends with the EU. READ MORE: UK set to infuriate EU bosses with plans for Northern Irish border
Brexit news: Gove tells Benn people breaking the law on the Irish border will face consequences
Brexit news: Michael Gove set out the Government's proposal for EU goods entering Northern Ireland
The UK left the EU in January and has until the end of this year to negotiate an agreement on future ties or start 2021 without a trade agreement, which some businesses say could cause costly delays and confusion at borders. Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom but shares a land border with EU member Ireland, hampered any agreement between Britain and the bloc until late last year when Prime Minister Boris Johnson agreed to a so-called protocol. The EU says the Northern Ireland protocol requires customs checks and controls on some goods coming from mainland Britain into the province in case they were headed further into Ireland and the bloc's single market. Michael Gove described the proposals as the heart of "a consensual, pragmatic approach".
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Brexit: David Davis warns EU would be ‘mad’ to refuse trade deal
"Implementing the protocol in this way will ensure we can support businesses and citizens, and protect Northern Ireland's place in the UK's customs territory while upholding our commitments to the EU's Single Market," he said. The Government acknowledged, however, "there will be some limited additional process on goods arriving in Northern Ireland." "There will be no new physical customs infrastructure and we see no need to build any. "We will, however, expand some existing entry points for agrifood goods to provide for proportionate additional controls." Boris Johnson has repeatedly said, that while the government will comply with the obligations set out in the protocol, it does not see that entailing new checks on goods, saying it already complies with requirements for live animals and agrifoods. DON'T MISS: Brexit rift: EU 'certifiably mad' to refuse free trade deal with UK [INSIGHT]
How Barnier claimed 'UK likely to end up with Canada-style deal’ [ANALYSIS]
Brexit POLL: Should Boris just walk away from EU negotiations? [POLL]
Brexit news: MPs debated the future of the Northern Ireland border post-Brexit
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thedailyexpress--2020-05-20--Britons to enjoy cheaper household goods by the start of next year under Brexit plan

Around £30billion worth of goods will have their levies slashed under the UK Global Tariff ( UKGT ) regime after the Brexit transition period ends on December 31 .
The household products are currently marked up by up to three percent .
But shoppers could be hit with higher prices on other items if a trade deal is not secured with Brussels .
This outcome is looking increasingly likely as talks between the UK ’ s chief Brexit negotiator David Frost and the EU ’ s Michel Barnier continue to prove fruitless .
If a free trade agreement is not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it could mean a 10 percent rise in the price of German cars for British buyers .
Trade Secretary Liz Truss announced the UKGT on Tuesday after Mr Frost accused the bloc of offering Britain a “ low quality trade agreement ” .
He said Eurocrats were seeking “ unprecedented EU oversight of our laws ” .
In a scathing letter to Mr Barnier , he criticised the EU for treating the UK different to how it treats other countries in trade discussions .
He said the bloc appeared to view Britain as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it had offered other partners .
Mr Frost urged his EU counterpart to ditch such tactics which he said showed the bloc favoured an “ unbalanced and unprecedented ” deal .
No10 published 10 separate “ agreements ” which Mr Frost had used in negotiations as templates for his desired deal .
READ MORE : Taxpayers ' bill for MPs ' security multiplies by 2000 % in five years He told The Times : “ It is certainly more ambitious than the free trade agreements we claimed to be using as a guide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down the same rabbit hole of equivalence as we did with the withdrawal agreement.
” In his strongly-worded letter sent on Tuesday , Mr Frost touched on three key areas on which both sides have so far failed to find common ground .
The EU is not willing to support a deal with similar terms to those in its trade pact with Japan and Canada .
Mr Barnier and his team are also digging their heels in on pressure to offer additional provisions it has offered to other countries .
Examples include the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ US and Canada .

Brexit: David Davis warns EU would be ‘mad’ to refuse trade deal
Around £30billion worth of goods will have their levies slashed under the UK Global Tariff (UKGT) regime after the Brexit transition period ends on December 31. The household products are currently marked up by up to three percent. But shoppers could be hit with higher prices on other items if a trade deal is not secured with Brussels.
This outcome is looking increasingly likely as talks between the UK’s chief Brexit negotiator David Frost and the EU’s Michel Barnier continue to prove fruitless. If a free trade agreement is not signed before the end of the year it could mean a 10 percent rise in the price of German cars for British buyers. Trade Secretary Liz Truss announced the UKGT on Tuesday after Mr Frost accused the bloc of offering Britain a “low quality trade agreement”. He said Eurocrats were seeking “unprecedented EU oversight of our laws”.
David Frost and Michel Barnier have failed to reach a breakthrough on post-Brexit trade
Trade Secretary Liz Truss announced the new tariff regime on Tuesday
In a scathing letter to Mr Barnier, he criticised the EU for treating the UK different to how it treats other countries in trade discussions. He said the bloc appeared to view Britain as “uniquely unworthy” of the concessions it had offered other partners. Mr Frost urged his EU counterpart to ditch such tactics which he said showed the bloc favoured an “unbalanced and unprecedented” deal. No10 published 10 separate “agreements” which Mr Frost had used in negotiations as templates for his desired deal. READ MORE: Taxpayers' bill for MPs' security multiplies by 2000% in five years
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Shoppers will find cheaper household items under the new tariff rules
A no-deal exit from the Brexit transition period will drive up prices on goods
He told The Times: “It is certainly more ambitious than the free trade agreements we claimed to be using as a guide. “We seem to be disappearing down the same rabbit hole of equivalence as we did with the withdrawal agreement.” In his strongly-worded letter sent on Tuesday, Mr Frost touched on three key areas on which both sides have so far failed to find common ground.
Negotiations on the future relationship between the UK and the EU
The EU is not willing to support a deal with similar terms to those in its trade pact with Japan and Canada. Mr Barnier and his team are also digging their heels in on pressure to offer additional provisions it has offered to other countries. Examples include the mutual recognition of conformity assessment with the US and Canada.
Both sides have so far failed to agree on the key topic of fishing
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thedailyexpress--2020-05-21--EU crisis: Merkel and Macron's plan derailed amid furious Brussels revolt over COVID-19

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German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron plan for the European Commission , the EU executive , is to borrow €500billion ( £448billion ) as common debt and transfer it to the regions and industries hit hardest .
But four states have opposed the proposal and said strict conditions should be attached to the grant .
Euronews ' Isabell Kumar asked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Franco-German plans look like they 've been derailed but what are the so-called frugal four proposing instead ? ''
Mr Parrock said : `` What the leaders of Austria , Sweden , the Netherlands and Denmark are saying essentially is the fund that gets put into the budget to try and help Europe with economic recovery from COVID-19 , that instead of being grants there should actually be strict conditions on them .
`` The Dutch Prime Minister , Mark Rutte , said that countries like , Italy and Spain which have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also have high national debt should be forced to take on reforms if they take money from this pot .
`` The €500billion fund that was proposed by Emmanuel Macron and Angela Macron was supposed to be a mutualised pot of debt .
`` It meant that everyone shouldered the burden together .
READ MORE : Brexit blow as Northern Ireland will need checks on goods next year

EU states to put 'stick in the mud' of recovery plans says expert
German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron plan for the European Commission, the EU executive, is to borrow €500billion (£448billion) as common debt and transfer it to the regions and industries hit hardest. But four states have opposed the proposal and said strict conditions should be attached to the grant. Euronews' Isabell Kumar asked reporter Jack Parrock for more details: "Franco-German plans look like they've been derailed but what are the so-called frugal four proposing instead?"
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Mr Parrock said: "What the leaders of Austria, Sweden, the Netherlands and Denmark are saying essentially is the fund that gets put into the budget to try and help Europe with economic recovery from COVID-19, that instead of being grants there should actually be strict conditions on them. "The Dutch Prime Minister, Mark Rutte, said that countries like, Italy and Spain which have been hard hit by the pandemic but also have high national debt should be forced to take on reforms if they take money from this pot. "The €500billion fund that was proposed by Emmanuel Macron and Angela Macron was supposed to be a mutualised pot of debt. "It meant that everyone shouldered the burden together. READ MORE: Brexit blow as Northern Ireland will need checks on goods next year
Angela Merkel and Emmanuel Macron's plans have been derailed
Emmanuel Macron has proposed a grant to help EU states' economic recovery
"It was seen as a big step for the Germans who had been really reluctant to do that. "But now it looks like even though the Germans are on board, these four countries are really going to put a stick in the mud on it." Ms Merkel had opposed a proposal by French President Emmanuel Macron for a Recovery Fund that would, for the first time, bind all 27 member states to raise debt jointly. Diplomats in Brussels, Paris and Berlin familiar with the discussions said Ms Merkel had dropped Germany's long-held opposition to mutualising debt to fund other member states - when it became clear the EU itself was in peril.
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Macron and Merkel plan to borrow €500billion (£448billion) from the EU as a common debt
Germany will ‘end up paying the bills’ warns expert
The court ruling in effect put the onus on EU governments themselves to fund any fiscal response. European leaders agree that, if they fail to rescue economies now in freefall, they risk something worse than the debt crisis 10 years ago - which exposed faultlines, fanned Euroscepticism and almost blew up the eurozone. The pandemic has derailed the recovery of the EU's most indebted countries. Italy's debt is shooting towards 170 percent of national output, Greece is losing gains wrung from years of belt-tightening and, across the south, a collapse in tourism threatens millions of jobs. But members' initial slowness to share medical equipment, and readiness to close their borders, seemed to demonstrate Brussels' irrelevance when national interests are at stake. DON'T MISS Brexit warning: How Alastair Campbell exposed EU negotiating strategy [ANALYSIS]
Brexit collapse: UK negotiators disclose the date when Boris end talks [VIDEO]
Ireland fury: MEPs lash out at Boris's Brexit plan - 'We are ALARMED' [INSIGHT]
Boris Johnson on Brexit


thedailyexpress--2020-05-21--Ireland fury: MEPs lash out at Boris Johnson's Brexit plan - 'We are ALARMED!'

On Wednesday , the Westminster Government published its Northern Ireland protocol , which confirmed there would be checks on some goods entering Northern Ireland from the rest of the UK .
The papers also revealed Northern Ireland would have to follow some EU rules on agriculture and manufactured goods , in order to ensure access to European markets and keep the border with the Republic open .
Fianna Fáil MEPs Barry Andrews and Billy Kelleher have insisted the Prime Minister ’ s plans are “ worrying ” .
The EU has previously raised concerns over the UK using Northern Ireland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Mr Andrews and Mr Kelleher believe the bloc will question whether a trade border on the Irish Sea can work without stringent checks .
In a joint statement they said : “ We are alarmed at how the British government is interpreting the Irish protocol .
“ Some of the language used in the implementation guidelines is worrying .
“ What the British government is proposing is quite a light touch .
“ We believe it could cause the European Commission to question whether keeping the trade border in the Irish Sea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there will be no need for an international border down the Irish Sea as screening will be supported by electronic processes .
However , some limited additional process surrounding goods arriving in Northern Ireland will be needed using `` all flexibilities and discretion '' .
There will be no new physical infrastructure to conduct customs checks but some existing entry points for agricultural goods will `` expand '' to provide for `` proportionate '' additional controls .
The paper says : `` Some checks will be needed , supported by relevant electronic processes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ireland 's existing status as a single epidemiological unit , building on what already happens at ports like Larne and Belfast .
READ MORE : Pound to euro exchange rate : GBP battles to gain ground '' What the protocol does not do is create - nor does it include any provision for creating - any kind of international border in the Irish Sea between Great Britain and Northern Ireland .
`` That means its provisions must entail the minimum possible bureaucratic consequences for business and traders , particularly those carrying out their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Ireland ’ s deputy premier Simon Coveney said there would be scepticism in the EU over the plans for no new customs infrastructure .
He told Irish broadcaster RTE : “ I think the really tricky area will be around customs .
Brexit fury : Boris and Varadkar set to clash over UK-Ireland customs [ INSIGHT ] School reopening could take place on different dates across UK MP hint [ ANALYSIS ] BBC weather warning : Hazardous thunderstorms to ravge UK [ VIDEO ]

Gove says EU will use 'variable geometry' with Northern Ireland
On Wednesday, the Westminster Government published its Northern Ireland protocol, which confirmed there would be checks on some goods entering Northern Ireland from the rest of the UK. The papers also revealed Northern Ireland would have to follow some EU rules on agriculture and manufactured goods, in order to ensure access to European markets and keep the border with the Republic open.
Fianna Fáil MEPs Barry Andrews and Billy Kelleher have insisted the Prime Minister’s plans are “worrying”. The EU has previously raised concerns over the UK using Northern Ireland as a backdoor for goods from Europe. Mr Andrews and Mr Kelleher believe the bloc will question whether a trade border on the Irish Sea can work without stringent checks.
Boris Johnson's plans for Northern Ireland have been criticised
Michael Gove has outlined the Government's Brexit plan for Northern Ireland
In a joint statement they said: “We are alarmed at how the British government is interpreting the Irish protocol. “Some of the language used in the implementation guidelines is worrying. “What the British government is proposing is quite a light touch. “We believe it could cause the European Commission to question whether keeping the trade border in the Irish Sea is still viable.”
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The EU has previously raised concerns over goods travelling from the republic to Northern Ireland
The protocol says there will be no need for an international border down the Irish Sea as screening will be supported by electronic processes. However, some limited additional process surrounding goods arriving in Northern Ireland will be needed using "all flexibilities and discretion". There will be no new physical infrastructure to conduct customs checks but some existing entry points for agricultural goods will "expand" to provide for "proportionate" additional controls. The paper says: "Some checks will be needed, supported by relevant electronic processes, in line with the island of Ireland's existing status as a single epidemiological unit, building on what already happens at ports like Larne and Belfast. READ MORE: Pound to euro exchange rate: GBP battles to gain ground
Ireland’s deputy premier Simon Coveney has raised concerns over customs checks
"What the protocol does not do is create - nor does it include any provision for creating - any kind of international border in the Irish Sea between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. "That means its provisions must entail the minimum possible bureaucratic consequences for business and traders, particularly those carrying out their affairs entirely within the UK customs territory." Ireland’s deputy premier Simon Coveney said there would be scepticism in the EU over the plans for no new customs infrastructure. He told Irish broadcaster RTE: “I think the really tricky area will be around customs. DON'T MISS Brexit fury: Boris and Varadkar set to clash over UK-Ireland customs [INSIGHT]
School reopening could take place on different dates across UK MP hint [ANALYSIS]
BBC weather warning: Hazardous thunderstorms to ravge UK [VIDEO]
A timeline of Brexit until January 2021


thedailyexpress--2020-05-21--Lib Dem peer 'milking' taxpayer by furloughing himself and claiming Lords allowance

Christopher Fox , who is the frontbench spokesman for business , has furloughed himself from his strategic communications company Vulpes Advisory , of which he is the owner and sole employee .
But the Lib Dem peer has continued to claim the £162 daily allowance for his work in the Lords , which is being conducted by Zoon during the lockdown .
Lord Fox , who has been described as `` greedy '' for taking two lots of taxpayers money , is understood to have at least £100,000 in his company accounts , according to the Telegraph .
Last night @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first Parliamentarian known to use the furlough scheme to pay himself .
MPs have called for the Lib Dem peer to pay the money back , as they accuse him of exploiting the Government 's job retention scheme which was put in place to help save millions of people from being left without work and pay during the coronavirus pandemic .
The furlough scheme covers 80 percent of salaries up to £2,500 a month .
Accounts filed with Companies House show Lord Fox has access to more than £100,000 cash in his Vulpes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the money to weather the health crisis , he decided to furlough himself and receive taxpayers money .
Tory MP Robert Halfon hit out at the peer , and said : `` It 's incredible that , when my residents in Harlow are struggling to keep a roof over their heads , this peer seems to want to milk the taxpayer at both ends , for every penny – both through the Lords allowance and the furlough scheme .
`` The Chancellor needs to nip this in the bud and make sure this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he could do is pay the furlough money back . ''
Mr Halfon added the furlough scheme `` was never meant to be for wealthy Lords '' .
JUST IN : Coronavirus map LIVE : Lockdown set to be lifted in 10 days Sir Iain Duncan Smith responded to the news , and said : `` It 's a bit rum , furloughing yourself while being a legislator . ''
But Lord Fox has defended the move , and when asked if using both the furlough scheme and the Lords allowance was `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I do n't think conflating the two is even logical .
`` It ’ s what many companies are doing , which is furloughing their employees .
`` If HMRC had thought it was ineligible for me to have applied for that , then they would have said so . ''
DO N'T MISS : House of Lords demands extra powers in order to scrutinise Johnson [ INSIGHT ] Fury as peers could be paid to sit at home and watch House of Lords [ DEVELOPED ] Speaker erupts in furious Commons row @ @ @ @ @ @ @ VIDEO ] He also defended the decision not to use the £100,000 cash available to him , and said he plans to relaunch the company at the end of the outbreak .
The Lib Dem peer said : `` I 'm hoping to tide the business over , I 'm hoping to relaunch it properly when the scheme… when the virus lifts . ''
As well as owning the PR company , Lord Fox also owns two homes worth more than £2million .
He lives in a five-bedroom house in Windsor , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £1.89million , and owns a second home in east London .

Rishi Sunak says furlough scheme is 'applied equally for UK'
Christopher Fox, who is the frontbench spokesman for business, has furloughed himself from his strategic communications company Vulpes Advisory, of which he is the owner and sole employee. But the Lib Dem peer has continued to claim the £162 daily allowance for his work in the Lords, which is being conducted by Zoon during the lockdown. Lord Fox, who has been described as "greedy" for taking two lots of taxpayers money, is understood to have at least £100,000 in his company accounts, according to the Telegraph.
Last night the newspaper revealed Lord Fox as the first Parliamentarian known to use the furlough scheme to pay himself. MPs have called for the Lib Dem peer to pay the money back, as they accuse him of exploiting the Government's job retention scheme which was put in place to help save millions of people from being left without work and pay during the coronavirus pandemic. The furlough scheme covers 80 percent of salaries up to £2,500 a month. Accounts filed with Companies House show Lord Fox has access to more than £100,000 cash in his Vulpes bank account.
Lord Fox has been accused of 'milking the taxpayer' for furloughing himself
Tory MP Robert Halfon urged Lord Fox to repay the furlough money
But instead of using the money to weather the health crisis, he decided to furlough himself and receive taxpayers money. Tory MP Robert Halfon hit out at the peer, and said: "It's incredible that, when my residents in Harlow are struggling to keep a roof over their heads, this peer seems to want to milk the taxpayer at both ends, for every penny – both through the Lords allowance and the furlough scheme. "The Chancellor needs to nip this in the bud and make sure this is not allowed. "The least he could do is pay the furlough money back." Mr Halfon added the furlough scheme "was never meant to be for wealthy Lords". JUST IN: Coronavirus map LIVE: Lockdown set to be lifted in 10 days
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Furlough scheme explained
Iain Duncan Smith also responded to the news
He also defended the decision not to use the £100,000 cash available to him, and said he plans to relaunch the company at the end of the outbreak. The Lib Dem peer said: "I'm hoping to tide the business over, I'm hoping to relaunch it properly when the scheme… when the virus lifts." As well as owning the PR company, Lord Fox also owns two homes worth more than £2million. He lives in a five-bedroom house in Windsor, which is estimated to be worth up to £1.89million, and owns a second home in east London.
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thedailyexpress--2020-05-21--School reopening could take place on different dates across UK, MP hints

Justice Secretary Robert Buckland acknowledged there might not be a “ uniform approach ” across England towards reopening primary classrooms from June 1 as set out in the Prime Minister ’ s blueprint for easing the coronavirus lockdown .
The Prime Minister ’ s spokesman insisted the Government was committed to getting as many pupils back at school “ as soon as we can.
” Doubts about reopening schools have intensified this week as growing numbers of local authorities raised safety concerns .
Yesterday the Local Government Association , which represents town halls , warned that varying coronavirus infection rates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may want to work faster than others.
” Pressed about the issue in a series of broadcast interviews yesterday , Mr Buckland said : “ I do n't think any of us want to put either children or our dedicated teaching staff in any danger at all , and the question of being safe is clearly paramount .
“ So we 're all working towards June 1 and planning for that return , but I accept the point that there may well be issues from employers that need to be addressed which might @ @ @ @ @ @ @ approach on June 1.
” The Justice Secretary added : “ Conversations are continuing between the Government and teachers ' representatives , and in some settings arrangements are being made which lead to a high degree of confidence that the risk can be managed and the setting can be safe .
“ Clearly , other employers feel that is not the case and I think we have to respect and understand that and remember that June 1 was a conditional date.
” The Prime Minister 's spokesman said : `` The Department for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , teachers and the unions , and we continue to listen to their concerns .
`` We have a plan for a cautious phased opening from June 1 and we do want to get more children back into school as soon as we can , but when it 's safe . ''
Anger has been growing among many parents at union opposition to allowing children back to schools .
Yesterday it emerged that Mary Bousted , the joint general secretary of the National Education Union , told colleagues that the organisation ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” .
Speaking in a video conference to union officials last week , she said : “ We have to trust you not to spill the beans when it is clearly a negotiating position.
” Under the Prime Minister ’ s plan for easing the lockdown , children in reception , Year One and Year Six are due to return to school from June 1 .
Other year groups are due to return on a phased basis before the summer holidays .
Judith Blake , the chairman of the Local Government Association ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said yesterday : “ Councils have worked with all schools to keep them open throughout the coronavirus pandemic for vulnerable children and families of key workers .
“ We know how vital it is for a child ’ s development to be in school , particularly for the most vulnerable children .
“ Councils are keen to support their local schools to get children back as soon as possible .
However , the safety of children , their families and staff will always be the top priority .
“ As there are different @ @ @ @ @ @ @ schools and councils must be able to work together to decide how and when schools open to more children .
Some areas may want to work faster than others .

Headmistress Charlotte Beyazian helps provide a safe teaching environment for pupils and staff
Justice Secretary Robert Buckland acknowledged there might not be a “uniform approach” across England towards reopening primary classrooms from June 1 as set out in the Prime Minister’s blueprint for easing the coronavirus lockdown. The Prime Minister’s spokesman insisted the Government was committed to getting as many pupils back at school “as soon as we can.”
Doubts about reopening schools have intensified this week as growing numbers of local authorities raised safety concerns. Yesterday the Local Government Association, which represents town halls, warned that varying coronavirus infection rates around England meant that “some areas may want to work faster than others.” Pressed about the issue in a series of broadcast interviews yesterday, Mr Buckland said: “I don't think any of us want to put either children or our dedicated teaching staff in any danger at all, and the question of being safe is clearly paramount. “So we're all working towards June 1 and planning for that return, but I accept the point that there may well be issues from employers that need to be addressed which might not mean we'll see a uniform approach on June 1.”
Boris Johnson and Sir Keir Starmer
The Justice Secretary added: “Conversations are continuing between the Government and teachers' representatives, and in some settings arrangements are being made which lead to a high degree of confidence that the risk can be managed and the setting can be safe. “Clearly, other employers feel that is not the case and I think we have to respect and understand that and remember that June 1 was a conditional date.” The Prime Minister's spokesman said: "The Department for Education continues to meet with head teachers, teachers and the unions, and we continue to listen to their concerns. "We have a plan for a cautious phased opening from June 1 and we do want to get more children back into school as soon as we can, but when it's safe." Anger has been growing among many parents at union opposition to allowing children back to schools.
Yesterday it emerged that Mary Bousted, the joint general secretary of the National Education Union, told colleagues that the organisation’s hard-line stance was a “negotiating position”. Speaking in a video conference to union officials last week, she said: “We have to trust you not to spill the beans when it is clearly a negotiating position.” Under the Prime Minister’s plan for easing the lockdown, children in reception, Year One and Year Six are due to return to school from June 1. Other year groups are due to return on a phased basis before the summer holidays.
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Judith Blake, the chairman of the Local Government Association’s Children and Young People Board, said yesterday: “Councils have worked with all schools to keep them open throughout the coronavirus pandemic for vulnerable children and families of key workers. “We know how vital it is for a child’s development to be in school, particularly for the most vulnerable children. “Councils are keen to support their local schools to get children back as soon as possible. However, the safety of children, their families and staff will always be the top priority. “As there are different COVID-19 infection rates around the country, schools and councils must be able to work together to decide how and when schools open to more children. Some areas may want to work faster than others.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-21--Labour MPs’ Brexit-style tactics to continue virtual Parliament fail ‘not priestly caste!’

But the move failed and they will be expected to take their place in the chamber to contribute from June 2 .
Jacob Rees-Mogg said MPs have a “ duty ” to return and are not a “ special priestly caste ” who should be treated differently from other workers .
The Commons leader insisted the building will be `` COVID-19 secure '' by next month .
He told MPs they can not do their jobs “ properly ” from home and if they consider scrutiny of the government essential they should return at the start of next month .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ issues as other workplaces where working from home is not good enough , ” he said .
“ These are not unique to us .
We are in the same situation as the rest of the nation and we shouldn ’ t think that MPs are some special priestly caste who must be treated differently .
“ We should stand with our own constituents.
” During lockdown a hybrid system has been operating in the Commons that allows some MPs to speak in the chamber while others take part by video link .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ not carry out their jobs from home should return to the workplace where possible .
Opposition parties said that MPs with health problems and those who live furthest from London would be left without a chance to take part in scrutiny of the government .
Liberal Democrat Alistair Carmichael , who represents Orkney and Shetland , said he would have to take a non-essential journey of “ almost the entire length of this country ” to participate .
Mr Carmichael said that he found the virtual arrangements `` stilted and artificial '' , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a choice between that and putting the safety of members , their families and staff of the House at risk , then that is no choice at all and it should only end when safe to do so . ''
Opposition parties MPs tried to take control of the Commons agenda to enable a vote on how the chamber operates after the Whitsun recess but their amendment was not selected .
Similar tactics were used by Remainers at the height of the Brexit deadlock to force the government ’ s hand .
Numbers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 50 MPs during lockdown and social distancing will continue .
MPs ' staff will be `` strongly advised to continue working from home '' for the moment .
Mr Rees-Mogg said : `` Under the hybrid proceedings the time this House is able to spend debating legislation faces being cut by around two-thirds .
I am sure all members will agree that each and every one of the 36 Bills put forward by the Government in the Queen 's Speech deserves the proper level of scrutiny .
`` We have to recognise that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it will become harder to make progress in a timely fashion .
`` That is why , in line with Government advice for those who can not do their jobs from home , I am asking members to return to their place of work after Whitsun .
`` We will not be returning to the crowded , bustling chamber of old , we will be observing social distancing . ''

Jacob Rees-Mogg announces plan to bring MPs back to Commons
But the move failed and they will be expected to take their place in the chamber to contribute from June 2. Jacob Rees-Mogg said MPs have a “duty” to return and are not a “special priestly caste” who should be treated differently from other workers. The Commons leader insisted the building will be "COVID-19 secure" by next month.
He told MPs they cannot do their jobs “properly” from home and if they consider scrutiny of the government essential they should return at the start of next month. “We are facing exactly the same issues as other workplaces where working from home is not good enough,” he said. “These are not unique to us. We are in the same situation as the rest of the nation and we shouldn’t think that MPs are some special priestly caste who must be treated differently. “We should stand with our own constituents.” During lockdown a hybrid system has been operating in the Commons that allows some MPs to speak in the chamber while others take part by video link.
The virtual House of Commons will be wound up
Official coronavirus guidelines say workers who cannot carry out their jobs from home should return to the workplace where possible. Opposition parties said that MPs with health problems and those who live furthest from London would be left without a chance to take part in scrutiny of the government. Liberal Democrat Alistair Carmichael, who represents Orkney and Shetland, said he would have to take a non-essential journey of “almost the entire length of this country” to participate. Mr Carmichael said that he found the virtual arrangements "stilted and artificial", but added: "If it's a choice between that and putting the safety of members, their families and staff of the House at risk, then that is no choice at all and it should only end when safe to do so."
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Opposition parties MPs tried to take control of the Commons agenda to enable a vote on how the chamber operates after the Whitsun recess but their amendment was not selected. Similar tactics were used by Remainers at the height of the Brexit deadlock to force the government’s hand. Numbers in the chamber have been limited to 50 MPs during lockdown and social distancing will continue. MPs' staff will be "strongly advised to continue working from home" for the moment.
Jacob Rees-Mogg said MPs have a 'duty' to return