thedailyexpress--2020-12-23--Boris holds emergency lockdown talks as England faces strict new rules - TIER 5 warning

It comes after a new variant of COVID-19 , which is said to be 70 percent more infectious than previous strains , has already spread around the UK , with cases identified in Wales and Scotland .
Boris Johnson and the Cabinet 's Covid operations committee is meeting today to consider the latest data on the spread of the virus .
Further measures have been suggested in a robust change to the UK tiering system with Government officials admitting the system had not been “ robust enough ” to deal with the increasing spread .
The new measures , Express.co.uk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lockdown in March with the strict `` Stay at Home '' message strengthened .
As well as this , other locations including Birmingham are expected to be moved up the ranks into Tier 4 and lower-ranking areas could be moved into Tier 3 .
A senior Whitehall source told Express.co.uk : “ We are ruling nothing out , the new strain is of serious concern .
“ Tier 4 appears to not be strong enough . ''
The source stressed the measures were essentially “ adding another level onto Tier 4 , so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Robert Jenrick also acknowledged `` it may be necessary to take further action '' to curb rising case numbers .
Mr Jenrick said this morning : `` We do n't have a timetable for that .
The Government 's Covid operations committee is meeting later today to review further evidence .
`` We keep this under review , we are constantly hearing from our scientific advisers about what we should do . ''
The new variant is `` very concerning '' and is `` prevalent probably in most regions of the country '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Boris could secure Brexit deal by TONIGHT Responding to the news , Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has written to Prime Minister Boris Johnson to say his party will back any Government moves to tighten restrictions if that is what scientists recommend .
Genomic researchers have found the new and more infectious variant of Covid-19 has already spread around the UK , with cases identified in Wales and Scotland .
The COVID-19 Genomics UK ( COG-UK ) consortium sampled cases around the UK and found the variant is also in the South West @ @ @ @ @ @ @ areas that are under Tier 2 and 3 restrictions .
Scientists Professor Lawrence Young and Professor Robert Dingwall explained the new variant is more transmissible because it `` sticks '' more easily to receptors in the throat and nose - which preliminary research also suggests is the reason it seems to be more prevalent among children .
Professor Jason Leitch , Scotland ’ s National Clinical Director , told Holyrood ’ s COVID-19 committee this morning the UK Government 's measures were not effective enough .
DO N'T MISS : Massive Covid spike @ @ @ @ @ @ @ DAY [ REVEAL ] EU Parliament ABANDONS emergency Brexit vote after deadline missed [ LATEST ] Boris Johnson confronts Michel Barnier after EU chief sidelined [ INSIGHT ] Professor Leitch referred to minutes of the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group ( Nervtag ) which suggested the new variant was highly present during England ’ s national lockdown in November .
Mr Leitch continued : “ That suggests the November lockdown in the South East of England wasn ’ t sufficient to drive down the R number for this variant.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very , very difficult '' to keep the R number below one given how transmissible the variant is , adding : “ It would be back to March rather than November ” hinting of another national lockdown .
At the same time , First Minister Nicola Sturgeon could be poised to introduce a “ Stay at Home Message ” for Scots amid concerns the variant could cause cases to rise significantly in Scotland .
Speaking in Holyrood , she said this system has `` until now been effective '' , but as more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be given on whether the top-level - Level 4 - needs to be strengthened .
She added : `` It seems that we are facing a virus that spreads much faster now than in March , so we need to consider whether the current Level 4 restrictions will be sufficient to suppress it . ''
In addition , the Scottish Government is also passing legislation which would ban Scots from travelling to the Republic in Ireland in its coronavirus regulations .
The latest Government figures reveal there have been more than two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK and more than 67,000 people have died .

Coronavirus variant: Expert outlines details of new strain
It comes after a new variant of COVID-19, which is said to be 70 percent more infectious than previous strains, has already spread around the UK, with cases identified in Wales and Scotland. Boris Johnson and the Cabinet's Covid operations committee is meeting today to consider the latest data on the spread of the virus.
Trending
Further measures have been suggested in a robust change to the UK tiering system with Government officials admitting the system had not been “robust enough” to deal with the increasing spread. The new measures, Express.co.uk understands, could closely resemble the national lockdown in March with the strict "Stay at Home" message strengthened. As well as this, other locations including Birmingham are expected to be moved up the ranks into Tier 4 and lower-ranking areas could be moved into Tier 3. A senior Whitehall source told Express.co.uk: “We are ruling nothing out, the new strain is of serious concern. “Tier 4 appears to not be strong enough."
Boris Johnson is holding talks this morning
Jason Leitch hinted new measures could be similar to a March lockdown
The source stressed the measures were essentially “adding another level onto Tier 4, so like a Tier 5.” Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick also acknowledged "it may be necessary to take further action" to curb rising case numbers. Mr Jenrick said this morning: "We don't have a timetable for that. The Government's Covid operations committee is meeting later today to review further evidence. "We keep this under review, we are constantly hearing from our scientific advisers about what we should do." The new variant is "very concerning" and is "prevalent probably in most regions of the country", he acknowledged. READ MORE: Boris could secure Brexit deal by TONIGHT
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
London was put into Tier 4 last weekend
Responding to the news, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has written to Prime Minister Boris Johnson to say his party will back any Government moves to tighten restrictions if that is what scientists recommend. Genomic researchers have found the new and more infectious variant of Covid-19 has already spread around the UK, with cases identified in Wales and Scotland. The COVID-19 Genomics UK (COG-UK) consortium sampled cases around the UK and found the variant is also in the South West, Midlands and North of England - areas that are under Tier 2 and 3 restrictions. Scientists Professor Lawrence Young and Professor Robert Dingwall explained the new variant is more transmissible because it "sticks" more easily to receptors in the throat and nose - which preliminary research also suggests is the reason it seems to be more prevalent among children. Professor Jason Leitch, Scotland’s National Clinical Director, told Holyrood’s COVID-19 committee this morning the UK Government's measures were not effective enough. DON'T MISS:
Massive Covid spike across England with 1,000 hospitalised in ONE DAY [REVEAL]
EU Parliament ABANDONS emergency Brexit vote after deadline missed [LATEST]
Boris Johnson confronts Michel Barnier after EU chief sidelined [INSIGHT]
Coronavirus cases have surged


thedailyexpress--2020-12-23--EU Parliament ABANDONS emergency Brexit vote after deadline missed - no deal looms

In a memo to political groups , Deputy Secretary-General Markus announced that plans to hold an emergency session to rubber-stamp the UK-EU trade and security deal have been shelved .
“ There will not be an extraordinary plenary session next week , ” he wrote .
MEPs had been due to hold a special session between December 27-28 to debate and eventually vote to ratify the Brexit trade agreement .
But senior MEPs decided that they would not be willing to scrutinise the legal text unless a deal was reached by last weekend .
Having missed the deadline , EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to give consent to the agreement in the New Year .
UK and EU negotiators are now wrangling with a fresh deadline looming over there work , with Michel Barnier warning of a “ short period of no deal ” unless talks are wrapped up by tomorrow .
The EU Brexit chief said the deal would have to come before Christmas Day to give eurocrats time to set up its provisional application .
In a meeting with MEPs yesterday , Mr Barnier said the European Council can not “ speed up ” its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is in place for January 1 .
“ I understand from Council is that such a procedure would be impossible after Christmas , ” the Frenchman said , according to a source familiar with the discussion .
He added : “ What happens if we have an agreement , not this week but next week – and we can no longer get it ratified ?
“ There ’ s no more time , we can no longer go through the provisional application… well what will we do then ?
We have to manage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ few weeks as well as we can.
” Officials are hopeful an agreement between the EU and UK could emerge by the end of the day .
Mr Barnier has all but conceded he had made his “ final offer ” to Britain on post-Brexit fishing rights and the haggling was now in the hands of EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen .
The top eurocrat has been in “ constant contact ” with Prime Minister Boris Johnson as they attempt to hammer out a last-minute compromise on the totemic issue .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ was the UK is `` not moving enough yet to clinch a fair deal on fisheries '' .
MUST READ : Keir Starmer terrified of being unmasked as ‘ secret Remainer ’ And the Brussels diplomat last night all but conceded he has taken the talks on fish as far as he can .
He kicked the issue upstairs to Mr Johnson and Mrs von der Leyen to find a political compromise in the coming days .
Mr Barnier told MEPs : “ It ’ s at this level this issue needs to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK Prime Minister – in order to try and find a compromise.
” It is understood Mrs von der Leyen is so keen to wrap up a deal that she is now heavily lobbying EU coastal states to accept a compromise on fishing .
DO N'T MISS Michel Barnier sets NEW Brexit deadline - No deal looms [ REVEALED ] French truckers slam Emmanuel Macron for port delays 'Brexit revenge ' [ INSIGHT ] Brexit LIVE : British fishermen explode over SELL-OUT - Boris warned [ UPDATES ]

Brexit: EU planning for a 'transition in all but name' says Phillips
In a memo to political groups, Deputy Secretary-General Markus announced that plans to hold an emergency session to rubber-stamp the UK-EU trade and security deal have been shelved. “There will not be an extraordinary plenary session next week,” he wrote. MEPs had been due to hold a special session between December 27-28 to debate and eventually vote to ratify the Brexit trade agreement.
Trending
But senior MEPs decided that they would not be willing to scrutinise the legal text unless a deal was reached by last weekend. Having missed the deadline, EU Parliament officials are now drawing up plans to give consent to the agreement in the New Year. UK and EU negotiators are now wrangling with a fresh deadline looming over there work, with Michel Barnier warning of a “short period of no deal” unless talks are wrapped up by tomorrow. The EU Brexit chief said the deal would have to come before Christmas Day to give eurocrats time to set up its provisional application.
MEPs have scrapped plans to vote on Michel Barnier's Brexit deal this year
Michel Barnier delivers speech in EU Parliament
In a meeting with MEPs yesterday, Mr Barnier said the European Council cannot “speed up” its on internal processes to ensure the agreement is in place for January 1. “I understand from Council is that such a procedure would be impossible after Christmas,” the Frenchman said, according to a source familiar with the discussion. He added: “What happens if we have an agreement, not this week but next week – and we can no longer get it ratified? “There’s no more time, we can no longer go through the provisional application… well what will we do then? We have to manage this short no deal period for a few weeks as well as we can.”
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
The European Parliament was set to hold an emergency session to vote on the Brexit deal
Officials are hopeful an agreement between the EU and UK could emerge by the end of the day. Mr Barnier has all but conceded he had made his “final offer” to Britain on post-Brexit fishing rights and the haggling was now in the hands of EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen. The top eurocrat has been in “constant contact” with Prime Minister Boris Johnson as they attempt to hammer out a last-minute compromise on the totemic issue. Mr Barnier suggested the EU's view was the UK is "not moving enough yet to clinch a fair deal on fisheries". MUST READ: Keir Starmer terrified of being unmasked as ‘secret Remainer’
Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen are in constant contact
And the Brussels diplomat last night all but conceded he has taken the talks on fish as far as he can. He kicked the issue upstairs to Mr Johnson and Mrs von der Leyen to find a political compromise in the coming days. Mr Barnier told MEPs: “It’s at this level this issue needs to be dealt with – the President and UK Prime Minister – in order to try and find a compromise.” It is understood Mrs von der Leyen is so keen to wrap up a deal that she is now heavily lobbying EU coastal states to accept a compromise on fishing. DON'T MISS
Michel Barnier sets NEW Brexit deadline - No deal looms [REVEALED]
French truckers slam Emmanuel Macron for port delays 'Brexit revenge' [INSIGHT]
Brexit LIVE: British fishermen explode over SELL-OUT - Boris warned [UPDATES]
Brexit: UK 'absolutely ready' for no deal scenario says Hancock


thedailyexpress--2020-12-23--Nigel Farage lets rip at 'arrogant' Macron ally after astonishing swipe at Britain

Meanwhile , David Bull , who sat alongside leader Mr Farage in Brussels last year as one of 29 Brexit Party MEPs , said Mr Beaune 's remarks made him `` incandescent with rage '' .
The border closure has been imposed in response to the emergence of a new strain of coronavirus in the UK , according to the French Government .
UK lorries have therefore been unable to get to the continent , and an estimated 500 French lorries are currently stranded in the UK as a result .
Mr Beaune took to Twitter this morning to share @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In a reference to Brexit , he commented : `` For all the pseudo-patriots who praise the permanent closure of borders every day . ''
Separately , Mr Beaune appeared on French news channel BFM to explain to the viewers that there was no prospect of food shortages in France as a result of the blockade .
Sainsbury 's has already admitted some salad items are likely to disappear from their shelves as a result of the decision by the French Government .
Mr Farage made little attempt to conceal his contempt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He told Express.co.uk : `` The arrogance of these people knows no bounds .
`` No Deal is better than an agreement with people that hate us . ''
JUST IN : Covid strain emerged in Kent - experts do n't know if vaccine will work Meanwhile Mr Bull , who is a qualified doctor , said : `` It 's incredibly provocative - it actually makes me incandescent with rage .
`` Essentially this has all been politicised - the whole point is that actually , Britain is a victim of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is we can isolate these variants far more effectively than any other country in the European Union .
`` And so , therefore , we found the variant , we did the right thing and we told the WHO that it is prevalent in Britain .
`` But the thing is it is prevalent across Europe and the world as we are now learning to appreciate .
DO N'T MISS John Redwood dismantles EU 's 'empty threats ' over no deal Brexit [ ANALYSIS ] Brexit fishing row : UK 'must defend its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ INSIGHT ] Brexit warning : ANY Brexit deal will now put Boris at risk from ERG [ UPDATE ] '' And the fact is that obviously Macron is deeply worried about what is going on with the Brexit deal or lack of deal and in my view I believe he is politicising this .
`` They have taken this decision to show us , and Verhofstadt has done this as well , by saying this is what you happen when you leave the EU .
`` No it is n't actually , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want to continue to trade with us and remember that the EU sells us more than we sell them , they will have to also play fair with us .
`` I feel desperately sorry for these lorry drivers who are stuck their with no means on an airfield in complete chaos .
`` I think this is in retaliation for the whole fishing issue .

Dover: Lorries fill roads as France travel ban continues
Meanwhile, David Bull, who sat alongside leader Mr Farage in Brussels last year as one of 29 Brexit Party MEPs, said Mr Beaune's remarks made him "incandescent with rage". The border closure has been imposed in response to the emergence of a new strain of coronavirus in the UK, according to the French Government.
Trending
UK lorries have therefore been unable to get to the continent, and an estimated 500 French lorries are currently stranded in the UK as a result. Mr Beaune took to Twitter this morning to share a tweet of lorries parked at Dover. In a reference to Brexit, he commented: "For all the pseudo-patriots who praise the permanent closure of borders every day." Separately, Mr Beaune appeared on French news channel BFM to explain to the viewers that there was no prospect of food shortages in France as a result of the blockade.
Nigel Farage said Clement Beaune's arrogance "knows no bounds"
Clement Beaune's tweet was described as "provocative" by David Bull
Sainsbury's has already admitted some salad items are likely to disappear from their shelves as a result of the decision by the French Government. Mr Farage made little attempt to conceal his contempt in response to Mr Beaune's remarks. He told Express.co.uk: "The arrogance of these people knows no bounds. "No Deal is better than an agreement with people that hate us." JUST IN: Covid strain emerged in Kent - experts don't know if vaccine will work
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Clement Beaune is a close ally of France's President Emmanuel Macron
Meanwhile Mr Bull, who is a qualified doctor, said: "It's incredibly provocative - it actually makes me incandescent with rage. "Essentially this has all been politicised - the whole point is that actually, Britain is a victim of its own success. "The fact is we can isolate these variants far more effectively than any other country in the European Union. "And so, therefore, we found the variant, we did the right thing and we told the WHO that it is prevalent in Britain. "But the thing is it is prevalent across Europe and the world as we are now learning to appreciate. DON'T MISS
John Redwood dismantles EU's 'empty threats' over no deal Brexit [ANALYSIS]
Brexit fishing row: UK 'must defend its waters' as MEP turns on EU [INSIGHT]
Brexit warning: ANY Brexit deal will now put Boris at risk from ERG [UPDATE]
Clement Beaune is interviewed on BFM
David Bull said Mr Beaune's remarks made him "incandescent with rage"
"And the fact is that obviously Macron is deeply worried about what is going on with the Brexit deal or lack of deal and in my view I believe he is politicising this. "They have taken this decision to show us, and Verhofstadt has done this as well, by saying this is what you happen when you leave the EU. "No it isn't actually, because the point is that if they want to continue to trade with us and remember that the EU sells us more than we sell them, they will have to also play fair with us. "I feel desperately sorry for these lorry drivers who are stuck their with no means on an airfield in complete chaos. "I think this is in retaliation for the whole fishing issue.
Countries where flights from the UK have been banned
"If it was purely about health they would not mention anything to do with Brexit. "This has been hijacked for political purposes. "I think what they are trying to do is to scare us and make us think we need to capitulate and accept their horrendous deal. "I still don't understand why they don't think it is acceptable that Britain actually looks after and manages access to its own waters. "That makes no sense to me whatsoever."
Tier 4 explained


thedailyexpress--2020-12-23--POLL: Should Boris walk away from Brexit talks after Macron shut the border? VOTE HERE

Post-Brexit trade talks between the UK and EU continue to hang on a knife-edge with just eight days to go until the official end of the Brexit transition period .
Brexit negotiators David Frost and Michel Barnier have been working around the clock to try and bridge gaps over fisheries and the so-called level playing field on trade .
The future relationship between the UK and Europe has been brought into sharp focus this week after France blocked the transportation of goods from the UK , amid fears over a new mutant strain of coronavirus .
Lorries were barred from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was eventually reached on Tuesday evening .
Up to 10,000 HGVs are estimated to have been affected by the decision from Mr Macron , with thousands of drivers forced to sleep in their cabs for the past three nights .
Officials in Paris agreed to open the border on Wednesday morning , but only to drivers who had reported a negative coronavirus test in the past 72 hours .
As a result , large queues remain at the border and on the M20 in Kent , with leading retailers and industry experts warning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the border has accelerated the use of no deal Brexit planning with contingency measures , such as the deployment of the removable barrier on the M20 and opening Manston Airport to hold vehicles .
The chaos comes as Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen continue to hold behind the scenes calls to try to thrash out an 11th-hour deal .
According to insiders close the negotiations a deal could be edging closer within the next 24 to 48 hours .
A UK source said : “ There is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ both sides want to be home for Christmas Eve.
” But , others fear the decision by the French President to shut the border to the UK at such a pivotal moment could have derailed months of hard work .
A senior UK source told The Sun : `` There 's a real chance relations with the French sink this whole thing .
`` If there was ever a time to tell them to get stuffed , this might be it . ''
Meanwhile , another Whitehall source told the Politico website the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK more ammunition to leave the EU without an agreement .
They said : `` If ever we needed a reason to show why we 're leaving the EU , the French trying to take food off our shelves for Christmas out of spite should do it . ''
And , Chief Executive of Logistics UK , David Wells , claimed the decision from Mr Macron was political .
He said : “ The French are able to demonstrate they are going to flex their muscles .
This is an opportunity for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ difficult ” .
French truckers slam Emmanuel Macron for port delays 'Brexit revenge ' [ VIDEO ] Meghan Markle and Prince Harry could announce new book deal [ INSIGHT ] UK long-range forecast : 35 INCHES of snow to blitz Britain [ FORECAST ] He added : “ You would be naive to think the discussions about fishing quotas were not in the back of Macron ’ s mind when he made the decision on Sunday night to shut the border .
“ I think that decision was irresponsible .
Not only has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drivers - it cuts off southern Ireland .
A decision he made for his own political advantage.
” Leading Brexiteers also condemned the decision by Mr Macron , including Nigel Farage , who insisted the time has come to “ walk away ” from Brexit talks .
Reacting the news , earlier this week , the Brexit Party leader said : “ We are dealing with thugs and bullies who want to make us sign a bad deal .

Macron's border closure decision is 'madness' says Tice
Post-Brexit trade talks between the UK and EU continue to hang on a knife-edge with just eight days to go until the official end of the Brexit transition period. Brexit negotiators David Frost and Michel Barnier have been working around the clock to try and bridge gaps over fisheries and the so-called level playing field on trade. THIS POLL HAS NOW CLOSED. CLICK HERE FOR THE RESULTS.
Trending
The future relationship between the UK and Europe has been brought into sharp focus this week after France blocked the transportation of goods from the UK, amid fears over a new mutant strain of coronavirus. Lorries were barred from travelling from Sunday evening until a deal was eventually reached on Tuesday evening. Up to 10,000 HGVs are estimated to have been affected by the decision from Mr Macron, with thousands of drivers forced to sleep in their cabs for the past three nights. Officials in Paris agreed to open the border on Wednesday morning, but only to drivers who had reported a negative coronavirus test in the past 72 hours.
Should Boris Johnson walk away from Brexit talks?
Large queues remain on the m20 after France shut the border
As a result, large queues remain at the border and on the M20 in Kent, with leading retailers and industry experts warning about potential food shortages. The disruption at the border has accelerated the use of no deal Brexit planning with contingency measures, such as the deployment of the removable barrier on the M20 and opening Manston Airport to hold vehicles. The chaos comes as Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen continue to hold behind the scenes calls to try to thrash out an 11th-hour deal. According to insiders close the negotiations a deal could be edging closer within the next 24 to 48 hours.
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
David Frost and Michel Barnier continue talks today
A UK source said: “There is a deal on the table now and both sides want to be home for Christmas Eve.” But, others fear the decision by the French President to shut the border to the UK at such a pivotal moment could have derailed months of hard work. A senior UK source told The Sun: "There's a real chance relations with the French sink this whole thing. "If there was ever a time to tell them to get stuffed, this might be it." READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: British fishermen explode over SELL-OUT - Boris warned
Boris Johnson is expected to hold another call with Ursula von der Leyen this evening
Meanwhile, another Whitehall source told the Politico website the closure of the border could have given the UK more ammunition to leave the EU without an agreement. They said: "If ever we needed a reason to show why we're leaving the EU, the French trying to take food off our shelves for Christmas out of spite should do it."
And, Chief Executive of Logistics UK, David Wells, claimed the decision from Mr Macron was political. He said: “The French are able to demonstrate they are going to flex their muscles. This is an opportunity for the French to show this could be difficult”. DON'T MISS French truckers slam Emmanuel Macron for port delays 'Brexit revenge' [VIDEO]
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry could announce new book deal [INSIGHT]
UK long-range forecast: 35 INCHES of snow to blitz Britain [FORECAST]
He added: “You would be naive to think the discussions about fishing quotas were not in the back of Macron’s mind when he made the decision on Sunday night to shut the border. “I think that decision was irresponsible. Not only has it created a significant welfare problem for drivers - it cuts off southern Ireland. A decision he made for his own political advantage.” Leading Brexiteers also condemned the decision by Mr Macron, including Nigel Farage, who insisted the time has come to “walk away” from Brexit talks. Reacting the news, earlier this week, the Brexit Party leader said: “We are dealing with thugs and bullies who want to make us sign a bad deal.
A timeline of key Brexit dates


thedailyexpress--2020-12-23--Macron bottles threat to veto Brexit deal – gives talks 'last chance' over fishing fears

The French President is willing to give the EU-UK talks “ one last chance ” because failure to secure a deal would leave France ’ s fishermen shut out of Britain ’ s coastal waters .
Clement Beaune , who has helped shape Paris ’ Brexit strategy , hinted the hard-line state could offer last-minute concessions on fishing rights to get an agreement over the line .
The French Europe minister said securing access to UK fishing grounds is a “ priority ” for his country as the wrangling over the Brexit trade and security deal enters the final stretch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the deal is bad we wo n't accept it .
“ That would mean that our fishermen no longer have access to UK waters .
It 's for that reason that we have n't already stopped the negotiations , that 's why we 're giving them one last chance . ''
His remarks will raise hopes that France will offer Michel Barnier , the EU ’ s chief Brexit negotiator , more room to manoeuvre in the coming days .
Philippe Leglise-Costa , France ’ s Brussels envoy , didn ’ t join @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give no more ground on fishing during a meeting of senior diplomats on Tuesday .
At the gathering , Mr Barnier all but conceded he had made his “ final offer ” to Britain on post-Brexit fishing rights and the haggling was now in the hands of EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen .
The top eurocrat has been in “ constant contact ” with Prime Minister Boris Johnson as they attempt to hammer out a last-minute compromise on the totemic issue .
Mr Barnier suggested the EU 's view was the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to clinch a fair deal on fisheries '' .
And the Brussels diplomat last night all but conceded he has taken the talks on fish as far as he can .
He kicked the issue upstairs to Mr Johnson and Mrs von der Leyen to find a political compromise in the coming days .
Mr Barnier told MEPs : “ It ’ s at this level this issue needs to be dealt with – the President and UK Prime Minister – in order to try and find a compromise.
” At a private @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit committee , the Frenchman revealed he had made his “ final offer ” on fishing .
MUST READ : Guy Verhofstadt thanked as 'useful idiot ' makes case for Brexit It is understood Mrs von der Leyen is so keen to wrap up a deal that she is now heavily lobbying EU coastal states to accept a compromise on fishing .
The Brussels boss was said to have kept Michel Barnier in the dark over the phone call with Mr Johnson amid concerns her chief negotiator is not willing to offer more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Leyen is likely to speak with key figures , such as France 's President Macron and Germany 's Angela Merkel , as the talks continue .
DO N'T MISS Emmanuel Macron to plot with Barnier to extend Brexit transition [ VIDEO ] Michel Barnier warns of ‘ protesting fishermen ’ on January 1 [ INSIGHT ] Michel Barnier sets NEW Brexit deadline - No deal looms [ EXCLUSIVE ]

Pound to euro exchange rate seen dropping amid Brexit talks
The French President is willing to give the EU-UK talks “one last chance” because failure to secure a deal would leave France’s fishermen shut out of Britain’s coastal waters. Clement Beaune, who has helped shape Paris’ Brexit strategy, hinted the hard-line state could offer last-minute concessions on fishing rights to get an agreement over the line. The French Europe minister said securing access to UK fishing grounds is a “priority” for his country as the wrangling over the Brexit trade and security deal enters the final stretch.
Trending
Mr Beaune said: “If the deal is bad we won't accept it. “That would mean that our fishermen no longer have access to UK waters. It's for that reason that we haven't already stopped the negotiations, that's why we're giving them one last chance." His remarks will raise hopes that France will offer Michel Barnier, the EU’s chief Brexit negotiator, more room to manoeuvre in the coming days. Philippe Leglise-Costa, France’s Brussels envoy, didn’t join Denmark in calling for the EU to give no more ground on fishing during a meeting of senior diplomats on Tuesday.
Emmanuel Macron has dropped plans to veto the Brexit deal and will give talks 'one last chance'
Emmanuel Macron has adopted a hardline stance over fishing in Brexit talks
At the gathering, Mr Barnier all but conceded he had made his “final offer” to Britain on post-Brexit fishing rights and the haggling was now in the hands of EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen. The top eurocrat has been in “constant contact” with Prime Minister Boris Johnson as they attempt to hammer out a last-minute compromise on the totemic issue. Mr Barnier suggested the EU's view was the UK is "not moving enough yet to clinch a fair deal on fisheries". And the Brussels diplomat last night all but conceded he has taken the talks on fish as far as he can.
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen will continue discussing compromises on fishing
He kicked the issue upstairs to Mr Johnson and Mrs von der Leyen to find a political compromise in the coming days. Mr Barnier told MEPs: “It’s at this level this issue needs to be dealt with – the President and UK Prime Minister – in order to try and find a compromise.” At a private meeting with the EU Parliament’s Brexit committee, the Frenchman revealed he had made his “final offer” on fishing. MUST READ: Guy Verhofstadt thanked as 'useful idiot' makes case for Brexit
Michel Barnier is the EU's chief Brexit negotiator
It is understood Mrs von der Leyen is so keen to wrap up a deal that she is now heavily lobbying EU coastal states to accept a compromise on fishing. The Brussels boss was said to have kept Michel Barnier in the dark over the phone call with Mr Johnson amid concerns her chief negotiator is not willing to offer more ground to Britain. Mrs von der Leyen is likely to speak with key figures, such as France's President Macron and Germany's Angela Merkel, as the talks continue. DON'T MISS
Emmanuel Macron to plot with Barnier to extend Brexit transition [VIDEO]
Michel Barnier warns of ‘protesting fishermen’ on January 1 [INSIGHT]
Michel Barnier sets NEW Brexit deadline - No deal looms [EXCLUSIVE]
Brexit: EU planning for a 'transition in all but name' says Phillips


thedailyexpress--2020-12-23--New Covid strain emerged in Kent and experts still don't know if vaccine will stop spread

Meanwhile Parliament has also been told it is likely the new variant probably started in one person in Kent .
Speaking during an evidence session of the Commons Science and Technology Committee on Wednesday morning , Professor Peter Horby , chairman of the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group ( Nervtag ) , said scientists were still exploring whether the new mutant coronavirus strain could sidestep immunity caused by vaccine or prior infection .
He said : `` What we do n't know yet is if there 's any difference in the severity of disease , the age @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whether there is any immune escape . ''
Prof Horby also said the strain likely started from one person in Kent , and could have been caused by `` random errors '' when the virus copies .
There were several possible reasons why the mutant strain of the virus appeared to be spreading faster than others , he added .
He told the committee : `` The underlying mechanism is not fully clear - it could be because the virus replicates faster , which means you get higher viral loads which means you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be that it takes a shorter time between being exposed and being infectious - if that timeframe shortens you get quicker transmission .
`` Or it could mean the duration of infectiousness is longer . ''
Prof Horby also denied any suggestion that Prime Minister Boris Johnson had overstated the transmission rates of the mutant strain in order to cancel Christmas .
He said : `` I do n't think there 's been any 'egging up ' , as far as I can tell .
JUST IN : Guy Verhofstadt thanked as 'useful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This is a new variant which is of concern . ''
Asked by committee chairman Greg Clark whether the UK was being `` penalised '' for having the expertise to detect the new strain , which resulted in dozens of countries closing routes with the UK , Prof Horby said : `` I think it 's fair to say countries that have more extensive and rigorous science and are more transparent do expose themselves to important information being made available to others .
But it 's a global public good .
`` It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about these viruses so we can control the spread . ''
Asked if a lax attitude towards lockdown measures could have caused the mutant strain to spread , Nervtag member Professor Neil Ferguson said corroboration of other data indicated otherwise .
DO N'T MISS Christmas rules to remain unchanged as Jenrick urges 'caution ' [ VIDEO ] Massive Covid spike across England with 1,000 hospitalised in ONE DAY [ DATA ] Robert Jenrick interview with BBC Breakfast criticised by viewers [ INTERVIEW ] He said : `` There was nothing special about what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ south of England during lockdown compared with other areas of the country .
`` We saw the non-variant decline in a particular week and place , whilst the variant increased in the same week and place in the same population . ''
Separately , Anthony Fauci , director of the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases , warned against overreacting to the new coronavirus variant .
He told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme : `` RNA viruses mutate , we know that , they continue to mutate - they have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mutate in the future .
`` The mutations that have been noticed in the south-eastern part of the UK and in South Africa , there is this concern that it is more readily transmissible .
`` That has not been completely proven , although one has to keep an eye on it .
`` There does n't seem to be any impact on virulence of the virus and there is no reason to believe that it would evade the polyclonal antibody response that is induced by a vaccine .

Matt Hancock reveals discovery of new coronavirus variant
Meanwhile Parliament has also been told it is likely the new variant probably started in one person in Kent. Speaking during an evidence session of the Commons Science and Technology Committee on Wednesday morning, Professor Peter Horby, chairman of the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group (Nervtag), said scientists were still exploring whether the new mutant coronavirus strain could sidestep immunity caused by vaccine or prior infection.
Trending
What we don't know yet is if there's any difference in the severity of disease, the age distribution of cases, or most importantly whether there is any immune escape Professor Peter Horby
He said: "What we don't know yet is if there's any difference in the severity of disease, the age distribution of cases, or most importantly whether there is any immune escape." Prof Horby also said the strain likely started from one person in Kent, and could have been caused by "random errors" when the virus copies. There were several possible reasons why the mutant strain of the virus appeared to be spreading faster than others, he added. He told the committee: "The underlying mechanism is not fully clear - it could be because the virus replicates faster, which means you get higher viral loads which means you are more infectious.
The new Coronavirus strain probably started in Kent - and may sidestep the vaccine
Professor Peter Horby speaking in June at a coronavirus briefing
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
"It could be that it takes a shorter time between being exposed and being infectious - if that timeframe shortens you get quicker transmission. "Or it could mean the duration of infectiousness is longer." Prof Horby also denied any suggestion that Prime Minister Boris Johnson had overstated the transmission rates of the mutant strain in order to cancel Christmas. He said: "I don't think there's been any 'egging up', as far as I can tell. JUST IN: Guy Verhofstadt thanked as 'useful idiot' makes case for Brexit
Boris Johnson has not overreacted, said Prof Horby
"This is a new variant which is of concern." Asked by committee chairman Greg Clark whether the UK was being "penalised" for having the expertise to detect the new strain, which resulted in dozens of countries closing routes with the UK, Prof Horby said: "I think it's fair to say countries that have more extensive and rigorous science and are more transparent do expose themselves to important information being made available to others. But it's a global public good. "It's in our interest that we know about these viruses so we can control the spread." Asked if a lax attitude towards lockdown measures could have caused the mutant strain to spread, Nervtag member Professor Neil Ferguson said corroboration of other data indicated otherwise. DON'T MISS
Christmas rules to remain unchanged as Jenrick urges 'caution' [VIDEO]
Massive Covid spike across England with 1,000 hospitalised in ONE DAY [DATA]
Robert Jenrick interview with BBC Breakfast criticised by viewers [INTERVIEW]
Lorries parked near Dover
New Tier 4 areas
He said: "There was nothing special about what was going on in Kent and the south of England during lockdown compared with other areas of the country. "We saw the non-variant decline in a particular week and place, whilst the variant increased in the same week and place in the same population." Separately, Anthony Fauci, director of the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, warned against overreacting to the new coronavirus variant. He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "RNA viruses mutate, we know that, they continue to mutate - they have mutated in the past and they will mutate in the future.
Places where the new strain has been identified
"The mutations that have been noticed in the south-eastern part of the UK and in South Africa, there is this concern that it is more readily transmissible. "That has not been completely proven, although one has to keep an eye on it. "There doesn't seem to be any impact on virulence of the virus and there is no reason to believe that it would evade the polyclonal antibody response that is induced by a vaccine.
Anthony Fauci, director of the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases


thedailyexpress--2020-12-23--Boris could secure Brexit deal by TONIGHT - but is ‘heavily reliant’ on EU respecting UK

Michel Barnier and Lord Frost have been locked in tight negotiations with the UK as the deal to secure a Brexit trade deal continues .
Mr Barnier stressed it was a “ crucial moment ” for both sides as the sides look to clear the decks over fisheries , a key sticking point in the trade talks along with rules on maintaining fair competition .
The EU side has hinted it remained open for Brexit talks beyond January 1st but UK officials are determined for one to be secured by January 1st .
One Whitehall official close to the negotiations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give in ” on fishing and made clear talks won ’ t continue “ beyond January 1st.
” This publication understands the UK had offered a cut of about a third in the number of fish EU vessels catch in British waters over a five-year period .
This is down from an initial demand to cut it by 60 percent over three years , but the compromise was rejected by Brussels .
The source added : “ A deal is certainly possible by today .
“ It is heavily reliant on the EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Many would like to get home Christmas after this intense period of talks.
” Another source told Express.co.uk : “ Boris Johnson has said the UK will not accept any trade deal and we are working hard to achieve one which is right.
” READ MORE : Michel Barnier sets NEW Brexit deadline - No deal looms Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said he was `` reasonably optimistic '' about the prospect of a Brexit trade deal with the European Union .
But speaking this morning , he stressed : `` There is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , whether that is on fisheries or the level playing field .
`` We are working through those issues , our negotiators will keep going - the Prime Minister has been very clear that he is going to negotiate until the very end which is December 31 because that is the right thing , it is what the British public would expect .
`` But at the moment there is n't sufficient progress , it is n't a deal that the Prime Minister feels he can sign us up to because it does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as a sovereign , independent nation . ''
DO N'T MISS : Boris Johnson confronts Michel Barnier after EU chief sidelined [ REVEAL ] Barnier explodes at UK refusing to budge on fishing demands [ INSIGHT ] Michel Barnier briefs EU chiefs as Brexit deal on brink - 'final push ' [ LATEST ] Boris Johnson is in `` close contact '' with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen in a sign of the intensive diplomatic activity in a bid to get the deadlock secured .
Whitehall sources close to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ occasionally ” .
Addressing ambassadors from the 27 EU countries and MEPs EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier said the talks were at a “ crucial moment '' .
He added : `` In 10 days , the UK will leave the single market . ''

Brexit: Michel Barnier gives update on state of negotiations
Michel Barnier and Lord Frost have been locked in tight negotiations with the UK as the deal to secure a Brexit trade deal continues. With just days until the end of the transition period, the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen has told member states to be ready for a meeting on Thursday if a deal is finalised today. Mr Barnier stressed it was a “crucial moment” for both sides as the sides look to clear the decks over fisheries, a key sticking point in the trade talks along with rules on maintaining fair competition.
Trending
Express.co.uk also understands European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Minister Boris Johnson are expected to hold another call on a trade deal later today ahead of the crucial meeting. The EU side has hinted it remained open for Brexit talks beyond January 1 but UK officials are determined for one to be secured by January 1. One Whitehall official close to the negotiations told Express.co.uk the EU needed to “give in” on fishing and made clear talks won’t continue “beyond January 1.” This publication understands the UK had offered a cut of about a third in the number of fish EU vessels catch in British waters over a five-year period. This is down from an initial demand to cut it by 60 percent over three years, but the compromise was rejected by Brussels.
A Brexit trade deal could be secured as early as tonight
Fisheries remain a key sticking point of the talks
The source added: “A deal is certainly possible by today. “It is heavily reliant on the EU though respecting UK sovereignty, however. “Many would like to get home Christmas after this intense period of talks.” Another source told Express.co.uk: “Boris Johnson has said the UK will not accept any trade deal and we are working hard to achieve one which is right.” READ MORE: Michel Barnier sets NEW Brexit deadline - No deal looms
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Lord Frost is in Brussels for Brexit talks
Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said he was "reasonably optimistic" about the prospect of a Brexit trade deal with the European Union. But speaking this morning, he stressed: "There is still the same serious areas of disagreement, whether that is on fisheries or the level playing field. "We are working through those issues, our negotiators will keep going - the Prime Minister has been very clear that he is going to negotiate until the very end which is December 31 because that is the right thing, it is what the British public would expect. "But at the moment there isn't sufficient progress, it isn't a deal that the Prime Minister feels he can sign us up to because it doesn't yet respect us, in full, as a sovereign, independent nation." DON'T MISS:
Boris Johnson confronts Michel Barnier after EU chief sidelined [REVEAL]
Barnier explodes at UK refusing to budge on fishing demands [INSIGHT]
Michel Barnier briefs EU chiefs as Brexit deal on brink - 'final push' [LATEST]
Michel Barnier has offered to hold talks beyond January 1st
Boris Johnson is in "close contact" with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen in a sign of the intensive diplomatic activity in a bid to get the deadlock secured. Whitehall sources close to the talks indicated the pair were speaking “occasionally”. Addressing ambassadors from the 27 EU countries and MEPs EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier said the talks were at a “crucial moment". He added: "In 10 days, the UK will leave the single market."
Brexit end game: The steps needed for a trade deal to be secured


thedailyexpress--2020-12-23--'Useful idiot' Guy Verhofstadt thanked for 'making case for Brexit with every new remark'

Martin Daubney opened up on his former Brussels colleague after Mr Verhofstadt posted a message gloating about France 's decision to close its borders to UK lorries in response to the emergence of a new , more contagious strain of COVID-19 in Britain .
He posted : `` Thank you @ guyverhofstadt on behalf of the 17.4million who voted Brexit .
`` Every time you tweet your open contempt for the UK you absolutely remind us why we voted to jettison overblown feudal mayors like you .
`` For the UK Leave movement , you ’ ve been a supremely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been motivated to post his somewhat inflammatory message showing images of large numbers of British lorries at Dover , having been barred from entering France .
Along with footage from the scene , he tweeted : `` We forgot what borders look like .
`` Some thought they would remain open with or without the EU .
`` They will now start to understand what leaving the EU really means ... '' Others responded in a similar vein to Mr Daubney .
READ MORE : Macron making 'miscalculation ' by assuming UK will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Leaving the EU means regaining our freedom , sovereignty and self-respect .
It means leaving a horrible foreign dictatorship .
`` British freedom is priceless .
My children will grow up as freeborn Britons instead of Euro serfs . ''
Not everyone was so critical - former EastEnders actor and Labour MEP Michael Cashman , who is now a member of the House of Lords , replied : `` If UK govt had the integrity to listen I could ’ ve warned them : as you know I wrote the Schengen Border @ @ @ @ @ @ @ full well when a member state of its own volition can reimpose the border under certain conditions .

Kent: Lorries back up for miles on M20 due to blockade
Martin Daubney opened up on his former Brussels colleague after Mr Verhofstadt posted a message gloating about France's decision to close its borders to UK lorries in response to the emergence of a new, more contagious strain of COVID-19 in Britain. He posted: "Thank you @guyverhofstadt on behalf of the 17.4million who voted Brexit.
Trending
"Every time you tweet your open contempt for the UK you absolutely remind us why we voted to jettison overblown feudal mayors like you. "For the UK Leave movement, you’ve been a supremely useful idiot." Mr Verhofstadt had been motivated to post his somewhat inflammatory message showing images of large numbers of British lorries at Dover, having been barred from entering France. Along with footage from the scene, he tweeted: "We forgot what borders look like.
Guy Verhofstadt took another swipe at Brexit with his tweet
Former Brexit Party MEP Martin Daubney
"Some thought they would remain open with or without the EU. "They will now start to understand what leaving the EU really means..." Others responded in a similar vein to Mr Daubney. READ MORE: Macron making 'miscalculation' by assuming UK will return for talks
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Guy Verhofstadt's tweet
Martin Daubney's reply
An aerial shot of lorries at Dover
James Bush added: "Leaving the EU means regaining our freedom, sovereignty and self-respect. It means leaving a horrible foreign dictatorship. "British freedom is priceless. My children will grow up as freeborn Britons instead of Euro serfs." Not everyone was so critical - former EastEnders actor and Labour MEP Michael Cashman, who is now a member of the House of Lords, replied: "If UK govt had the integrity to listen I could’ve warned them: as you know I wrote the Schengen Border code into law. "I know full well when a member state of its own volition can reimpose the border under certain conditions.
Tier 4 explained
Robert Jenrick, the Communities Minister


thedailyexpress--2020-12-24--Brexiteer warns 'omens are not good' as he exposes Boris's impending Brexit deal stitch-up

Former Brexit Party MEP Ben Habib has told Express.co.uk he fears Boris Johnson will renegade on some of his promises in a last-ditch attempt to secure a trade deal with the EU .
The Brexiteer said he fears the Prime Minister will follow in the footsteps of his predecessor , Theresa May and betray Leave voters .
Mr Habib told this website : “ It ’ s been four and a half years since we voted to leave the EU ; four and a half years since we voted to ditch their laws and take back control of these , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fish .
`` We have had three Tory Prime Ministers in that time .
The first two were ardent Remainers .
The third , the champion of Vote Leave , was our hope .
`` He promised an undiluted Sovereign compliant exit from the EU .
`` Can he deliver on his promise ?
`` We will find out in the next few days , if not today .
`` The omens are not good .
Like May , his threat of no-deal has been belied by his own lack of vision and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` His promise that the whole of the UK would leave as one United Kingdom has proven to be false .
Northern Ireland has been annexed by the EU .
`` We also know Frost has been offering up long term access to our territorial waters .
JUST IN : Brexiteer lists FIVE tests for Boris Johnson ’ s imminent Brexit deal '' But will Boris Johnson eventually do the right thing by the British people ?
Can he pull a rabbit out of the hat ?
“ Or will he go the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him ?
`` I suspect the latter but pray with all my heart for the former . ''
The UK and Brussels are set to announce they have secured a post-Brexit deal , according to sources close to the talks .
DO N'T MISS : Boris told to scrap Brexit trade talks over Macron 's border chaos [ COMMENT ] Angela Merkel and Joe Biden set to 'come to blows ' in row over trade [ INSIGHT ] Brexiteers OUTRAGED after EU says talks could extend into 2021 [ ANALYSIS ] Mr Johnson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 7pm on Wednesday evening , with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen due to hold one at the same time .
But the press conferences have since been cancelled , with the leaders expected to announce the news today .
Officials from either side have not confirmed that the talks have reached a conclusion .
A source at the EU 's executive Commission said talks were still underway , though in their `` final stages '' .

Pound to euro exchange rate climbs as Brexit talks near agreement
Former Brexit Party MEP Ben Habib has told Express.co.uk he fears Boris Johnson will renegade on some of his promises in a last-ditch attempt to secure a trade deal with the EU. The Brexiteer said he fears the Prime Minister will follow in the footsteps of his predecessor, Theresa May and betray Leave voters.
Trending
Mr Habib told this website: “It’s been four and a half years since we voted to leave the EU; four and a half years since we voted to ditch their laws and take back control of these, our borders, our cash and our fish. "We have had three Tory Prime Ministers in that time. The first two were ardent Remainers. The third, the champion of Vote Leave, was our hope. "He promised an undiluted Sovereign compliant exit from the EU. "Can he deliver on his promise?
A Brexiteer has warned the “omens are not good” about the UK's imminent trade deal with the EU
Ben Habib fears Boris Johnson will renegade on some of his promises
"We will find out in the next few days, if not today. "The omens are not good. Like May, his threat of no-deal has been belied by his own lack of vision and preparedness to leave without a deal. "His promise that the whole of the UK would leave as one United Kingdom has proven to be false. Northern Ireland has been annexed by the EU. "We also know Frost has been offering up long term access to our territorial waters. JUST IN: Brexiteer lists FIVE tests for Boris Johnson’s imminent Brexit deal
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Brexit news: The two sides are believed to be on the brink of a deal
Officials from either side have not confirmed that the talks have reached a conclusion
Mr Johnson was set to hold an announcement at 7pm on Wednesday evening, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen due to hold one at the same time. But the press conferences have since been cancelled, with the leaders expected to announce the news today. Officials from either side have not confirmed that the talks have reached a conclusion. A source at the EU's executive Commission said talks were still underway, though in their "final stages".
Brexit news: How a deal will be signed off