thedailyexpress--2020-12-24--Brexit LIVE: France gloats UK has made 'huge concessions' on fishing to seal breakthrough

Britain will leave the EU 's Common Fisheries Policy and wants to adopt a system of annual negotiations of quotas , rather than a fixed number of catches .
The Prime Minister has vowed to take back control of the UK ’ s 200 nautical mile coastline and it is thought this would involve cutting EU access by up to 60 percent over a three-year period .
But , with just days to go in negotiations , reports suggested the UK had caved in on this and offered to reduce the amount of fish EU fishermen can catch by around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The prospect of handing large swathes of fish back to EU vessels has been condemned by UK fishing group Fishing for Leave who branded the proposal “ abysmal ” .
Fishing for Leave also claimed if EU fishermen were denied access to UK waters after the five year period of adjustment then tariffs would be imposed on all goods .
In a statement , Fishing for Leave said : “ After five years of waiting to get back just a third of our fish , if we do try to get to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has a huge lever to whip us to where it wants with the threat of all goods tariffs or rescind the deal.
” They added : “ Essentially we now have a fishing backstop .
Nominal independence but no ability to use it because of a bigger issue .
Sewn up , stitch up.
” Britain officially left the EU in January under the Brexit withdrawal agreement and the UK fishing group has blamed the deal - struck in large by former Prime Minister Theresa May – for the current situation .
They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ insist the EU has no right to demand a single piece of fish from UK waters .
The Prime Minister is said to have hailed Michael Gove ’ s work in a Zoom call with ministers late last night .
Sources on the call told The Sun Boris Johnson “ lavished praise ” on his former rival for being “ indispensable ” in getting a trade deal with the EU , as well as in prepping for a no-deal Brexit should it occur .
Mr Johnson then warned his ministers he would need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and reassured them it allowed “ both the UK and the EU to retain their sovereignty ” .
German news outlet DW News reported two senior EU diplomats believe a Brexit deal is tentatively “ agreed ” , as rumours fly an end to the deadlocked negotiations is close .
One source close to the talks told the outlet : “ An agreement is in the air ” .
Ambassadors have penciled in a final meeting for Christmas Eve to approve the terms of the trade agreement between the UK and EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have not yet seen any copy of the accord .
Another senior diplomat told DW : “ It all depends on what has been agreed on fish.
” 10.35pm update : Boris Johnson to hold call with Cabinet in coming hours - Sky News The Prime Minister is set to hold a call with his Cabinet in the coming hours to update ministers on the progress of post-Brexit trade talks with the EU .
The latest development comes following report an agreement between the two sides could be imminent .
Boris Johnson has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ European Union on fishing quotas in order to get a Brexit trade deal over the line .
The Prime Minister agreed to that Brussels would only have to give back 25 percent by value of their current catches in Britain ’ s coastal waters .
The post-Brexit fishing agreement will feature a five-and-a-half-year transition period , during which the bloc 's generous hauls from British waters would be phased down .
A senior European source said this was a “ big move by Johnson ” to break the deadlock .
The offer was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reclaim 35 percent of the EU 's catch back , over three years .
But British officials are pleased with the outcome and feel they have won a significant victory over Brussels .
The bloc was previously insisting on handing back just 15-18 percent of fish to UK vessels , over a 10-year period .
8.27pm update : ERG vows to 'scrutinise ' any UK-EU trade deal in detail The European Research Group ( ERG ) of pro-Brexit Conservative MPs has said it will `` scrutinise '' any trade deal between the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is reached on Wednesday night .
The group said in a statement : `` Assuming a deal between UK and the EU is officially confirmed tonight , the European Research Group will tomorrow reconvene the panel of legal experts , chaired by Sir William Cash MP , to examine the details of the deal and legal text .
`` The team of highly-experienced lawyers , previously known as the 'star chamber ' , was first assembled in 2019 to examine the legal aspects of Theresa May 's original Withdrawal Agreement .
`` Given @ @ @ @ @ @ @ complex , the star chamber will scrutinise it in detail , to ensure that its provisions genuinely protect the sovereignty of the United Kingdom after we exit the transition period at the end of this year .
`` The star chamber , which will include some new members to replace those now in Government , will undertake its examination as expeditiously as possible before providing its conclusions on the merits of the deal - which we will aim to make public before Parliament reconvenes . ''
7.56pm update : Brexit poised to 'start @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU ' Brexit poses huge challenges for the EU as a former bloc insider warns that Brexit could be the beginning of a huge disaster for the bloc .
Brexit trade talks could be coming to a conclusion as reports suggest a deal is hours away from being agreed .
fter four years of chaos during withdrawal negotiations and months of deadlock in trade talks , one senior EU source told the Guardian this evening : “ The stars have aligned.
” Both sides have said they would prefer a deal , so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ surrounding Brexit both in London and in Brussels .
But Brexit still represents a seismic moment in the history of Europe , and one former EU insider warned last year that Brexit and other crises facing the bloc could lead to a `` huge disaster '' .
German philosopher and historian Ulrike Guerot , who has previously worked with former President of the EU Commission , Jacques Delors , made the warning in a documentary aired by VPRO in 2019 .
7.15pm update : Meddling SNP intervenes in Brexit talks as Scotland pledges @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the SNP-led Scottish Government have pledged to stay in direct contact with Brussels as a Brexit trade deal is `` imminent '' sparking a rift in Holyrood .
The SNP have been opposed to the UK leaving the EU and have vowed to rejoin the bloc as soon as possible if they achieve independence in a second referendum .
The party , which leads the Scottish Government , have been at loggerheads with the UK Government and Boris Johnson claiming Scotland has been taken out of Scotland “ against its will ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this evening Scotland ’ s interests would “ always be stood up for.
” They said : “ We liaise closely with Brussels and will continue to do so after the end of the transition period.
” A French official has claimed Britain has made significant concessions in Brexit trade talks over the past two days .
The source , who declined to be named , told Reuters : `` The British have made huge concessions in the negotiations in the past 48 hours . ''
The insider also warned that on fishing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK was `` far '' from the three-year access to British waters and 80 percent reduction in quotas offered by London a week ago .
5.03pm update : Fishing boss lists FIVE areas Brexit deal must be judged on for Brexiteers to give backing UK fishermen MUST get the lion 's share of the catch in UK seas as part of any post-Brexit trade deal , an industry leader has warned .
Barrie Deas , chief executive of the National Federation of Fisherman 's Organisations ( NFFO ) , also outlined five @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before being deemed acceptable to his members .
Mr Deas was speaking after widespread reports suggested UK chief negotiator Lord David Frost was preparing to sign the UK up for a deal which would cut demands for a 60 percent reduction in the catch by value in British waters to 35 percent - much nearer to the 25 percent proposed by the EU .
The claims were subsequently dismissed in no uncertain terms by Number 10 .
4.35pm update : Brexiteers OUTRAGED after EU says talks could extend into 2021 : 'Get out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have reacted with fury to the suggestion by the EU that trade talks could be carried over into January , after the UK has left the transition period on December 31 .
Furious Britons flocked to social media to warn Boris Johnson not to cave into the Europeans ’ demands , telling him : “ Get them out of our waters , stop giving in to them.
” Michel Barnier said Britain ’ s proposals on fishing quotas were “ unacceptable ” as an EU diplomat said the bloc “ remains ready to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ One person said given the amount of Brexit delays and missed deadlines , the UK would appear “ needy and desperate ” if it extended the negotiations to suit the EU .
They wrote : “ We are starting to look like a very needy and desperate country .
“ Boris , you are making us look foolish and weak , which your people are not.
” 3.26pm update : Pound surges against euro and US dollar over reports trade deal is near Sterling has jumped against both the euro and US dollar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ finally on the brink of clinching a post-Brexit trade deal .
The British currency has surged one percent against the euro to 90.15 pence and ahs risen 1.15 percent against the US dollar to $ 1.3537 .
MUG strategist Lee Hardman said : `` The market is anticipating that a deal will be agreed in the next day or two .
`` The best case scenario for the pound would be if we also see details released form the EU and UK side of things alongside the deal to try and reduce the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new trading arrangement . ''
The UK and EU are still in talks over a post-Brexit trade deal , a Government source has said , after Brussels diplomats suggested an agreement could be reached imminently .
The Number 10 source said : `` Negotiations are ongoing . ''
The BBC 's Laura Kuenssberg has said the UK 's chief Brexit negotiator David Frost and top EU official Stephanie Riso are still negotiating in Brussels and that a deal has not been finalised yet .
She tweeted : `` David Frost and EU ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ room in Brussels - deal is NOT finalised .
`` Seems very likely it ’ s heading that way tonight but not signed and sealed . ''
A Brexit trade deal between London and Brussels is imminent and could be clinched within hours , a senior EU diplomat has told Reuters .
The insider said EU member states would still have to approve a provisional application of the deal with effect from January 1 as time has run out for the European Parliament to ratify it .
Three diplomatic sources told Reuters the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prepare their procedure to implement any deal from the start of next year .
One EU diplomat said : `` It seems the deal is pretty much there .
It 's a matter of announcing it today or tomorrow . ''
EU member states have been put on standby by the European Commission for a meeting on Thursday , according to EU sources , as a Brexit trade deal edges nearer 1.10pm update : Nigel Farage lets rip at 'arrogant ' Macron ally after astonishing swipe at Britain Nigel Farage has lambasted Emmanuel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Beaune after the French minister taunted the UK over the blockade of UK lorries and boasted that there would be no food shortages in his own country .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the continent , and an estimated 500 French lorries are currently stranded in the UK as a result .
12.35pm update : Guy Verhofstadt thanked as 'useful idiot ' makes case for Brexit with every remark Guy Verhofstadt , the former Belgian Prime Minister and long-term Brexit critic on social media , has been branded a `` useful idiot '' who underlines the reasons underpinning the UK 's decision to quit the bloc every time he tweets .
Martin Daubney opened up on his former Brussels colleague after Mr Verhofstadt posted a message @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 useful idiot . ''
12.20pm update : ‘ It 's all down to fish !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ block to a deal Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin said fishing was the main obstacle in the way of a deal after movement on the so-called level playing field on completion .
He said : “ It 's all down to fish , it would appear right now `` There was a lot of progress made on the level playing field over the last two to three weeks and it 's very difficult for all involved but the gap is still wide on fish , and for fishing communities in Ireland it 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ update : POLL : Should Boris walk away from Brexit talks after Macron shut the border ?
VOTE HERE Brexit trade talks remain on the brink with just days to go until the end of the transition period and relations between the UK and France have been strained after Emmanuel Macron temporarily shut the border over coronavirus fears .
Should the Prime Minister walk away from Brexit talks after the French President closed down the border ?
Vote now .
Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin says he expects a trade deal to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a no deal outcome would provide an “ appalling shock ” to the economies in Europe and UK .
He said : “ On balance I think given the progress that has been made that there should be a deal .
`` And I think that a no deal would be an appalling shock to the economic system on top of Covid-19 which has really hit the respective of economies of the UK , Ireland and the EU member states .
`` In particular , our domestic economy has taken a very big @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a deal . ''
10.10am update : Andrew Adonis calls on PM to delay then cancel Brexit Andrew Adonis has called on Boris Johnson to delay Brexit beyond the December 31 deadline and use the time to cancel leaving the EU .
In a post on Twitter , the ardent Remainer said : “ It is obvious that we should be delaying the end of the transition beyond next week , and use the delay to reverse Brexit.
” 9.45am update : ‘ Delay will NOT happen ’ Brexiteer Kate Hoey blasts 'desperate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hoey has said a delay to crucial trade talks `` will not happen '' and has told a Tory MP he looks `` desperate '' for issuing a last-minute plea on the matter .
The former MP for Vauxhall and current Labour peer offered a stern response to remarks made by Simon Hoare , Conservative MP for North Dorset .
Mr Hoare , chairman of the Northern Ireland Select Committee , said he would “ really like to see the clock temporarily ‘ stopped ’ on Brexit talks ” amid the “ worsening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ There ’ s no Parliament time to scrutinise and agree a deal and daily clarity of the dangers to our already pressured economy of no deal is alarming .
Time for maturity.
” Baroness Hoey , tweeting in response , said Mr Hoare looked “ slightly desperate ” , and dismissed the idea of a delay to the December 31 deadline .
She wrote : “ Dear Simon .
You have done everything you could to stop Brexit since the referendum .
But you failed .
Now you are just looking slightly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being a chair of a Select Committee you are not in Government and a delay will not happen.
” The UK is heading for a no deal Brexit unless a trade agreement with the European Union is found by tomorrow , EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier has warned .
According to a leaked memo , seen by Express.co.uk , Mr Barnier said : “ What happens if we have an agreement , not this week but next week – and we can no longer get it ratified ?
“ There ’ s no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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.
” READ MORE : Michel Barnier sets NEW Brexit deadline - No deal looms if agreement not clinched in hours 9.00am update : Jenrick ‘ optimistic ’ Brexit deal can be reached if key issue resolved Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick has said he is “ optimistic ” a trade deal can be reached with the EU before the deadline if issues around sovereignty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Radio 4 's Today programme , he said : '' We want to ensure that we have arrangements in both respects that ensure that we continue to be an independent , sovereign nation .
`` And so getting those details right is very important , and the Prime Minister , I think , is aligned to the fact that this is an agreement that is likely to last for a long time .
`` We want to make sure that it is right for the country before he can recommend it to Parliament @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 'm optimistic , I hope that we can reach an agreement , but we will need to get those final issues resolved , and there 's some way further to go on that . ''
8.30am update : 'Time to tell them to get stuffed ! '
Boris 's Macron fury may sink Brexit deal with EU Boris Johnson is furious at Emmanuel Macron for barring British lorries from crossing the Channel into France , and his anger has the potential to sink a post-Brexit trade deal completely , a UK insider @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the border in response to the emergence of a new , more contagious strain of coronavirus has dramatically increased tensions between London and Paris .
A deal to reopen the border was thrashed out last night , but lorry drivers will still need to show a recent COVID-19 test in order to travel to the continent , and disruption is ongoing .
8.15am update : Jenrick urges the EU to ‘ respect ’ the UK in Brexit talks as ‘ serious ’ differences remain Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick has said the UK can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which does not “ respect ” the UK as a sovereign independent nation .
Mr Jenrick said there remains “ serious ” differences between the UK and EU over fisheries and the so-called level playing field on completion .
Speaking to Sky News , he said : “ 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 n't yet respect us , in full , as a sovereign , independent nation .

Brexit: Current deal ‘doesn’t respect us’ says Robert Jenrick
THIS BLOG IS NOW CLOSED. SEE TODAY'S UPDATES HERE. The Prime Minister will speak with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen shortly, before addressing the nation in a press briefing about the progress made in negotiations with the EU. BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg broke the news on Twitter, after last night saw a breakthrough between British and European negotiators. She said: "Expect PM a to talk to EU chief at about 7am UK time now with a press conference to follow at about 8."
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Both sides had worked through the night checking the final details of the proposed deal, with the draft trade agreement said to be around 2,000 pages long. Eric Mamer, European Commission spokesman, also suggested an announcement of a Brexit deal could come in the morning. He posted to Twitter: “Work will continue throughout the night," he said shortly after midnight. "Grabbing some sleep is recommended to all Brexit-watchers at this point. It will hopefully be an early start tomorrow morning..."
Brexit news: France has claimed the UK has made huge concessions over the past two days
An EU official source told The Herald "the stars have aligned" in agreeing terms for a trade deal, after months of difficulty over red-line issues such as fishing, "level playing field" and governance. Mr Johnson, following 24 hours of negotiations with Ms von der Leyen, briefed cabinet members late last night on the progress made. Sources on the call told The Sun he “lavished praise” on Michael Gove for being “indispensable” in getting a trade deal with the EU, as well as in prepping for a no-deal Brexit should it occur. Mr Johnson then warned his ministers he would need them to “sell the deal”, and reassured them it allowed “both the UK and the EU to retain their sovereignty”.
Brexit negotiators David Frost and Michel Barnier continue talks today
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A trade deal between the UK and EU is believed to worth around £670 billion, but will still need to be ratified in both the British and European Parliaments. Hardline Tory Brexiteers from the European Research Group have said it will reconvene its “star chamber” to analyse the proposed agreement. Follow Express.co.uk for live Brexit updates:
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7.30am update: This blog is now closed. See today's updates here. 7:10am update: Brexit BREAKTHROUGH as Boris Johnson prepares to announce Christmas Eve trade deal TODAY Boris Johnson and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, are set to announce they have agreed on a post-Brexit trade deal after nine months of negotiations. Prime Minister Johnson is expected to announce the historic deal at a press conference on the morning of Christmas eve. Brexit talks continued into the night on Wednesday evening as the UK and EU knuckled down to agree on a post-Brexit trade and security deal. There was speculation the deal would be revealed on Wednesday evening after intense negotiations between Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen. But the announcement has reportedly been pushed back to this morning as both sides undertook final details through the night. According to Reuters, sources in London and Brussels said a deal was close on Wednesday night. Yesterday Eric Mamer, spokesman for Ms von der Leyen, wrote on Twitter: “Work will continue throughout the night.” 6:50am update: Boris and von der Leyen to make one last call ironing out Brexit terms - BBC Laura Kuenssberg has said one final phone call with Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen will take place soon to finalise the terms for the proposed Brexit trade deal She added talks yesterday finalising the Brexit trade deal saw four phone calls between Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen. She said on Twitter: “Understand there were four calls between PM and EU chief Von Der Leyen yday to get Brexit deal over the line. ‘One final one in about half an hour expected to sign and seal after late night wrangles over individual fish species (am not making this up)”
Brexit live: Laura Kuenssberg said late night talks saw the UK and EU debate specific fish species
5am update: Leaving Guy Verhofstadt's 'absurd' EU is 'only sane choice' says former Brexit MEP on eve of deal A former Brexit MEP has described Guy Verhofstadt as a personification of the EU’s “absurdity” - and says leaving the EU is “not just preferable, but the only sane choice.” Alexandra Phillips delivered a colourful assessment of the EU and its position on Brexit in a comment piece for The Daily Telegraph. It comes as the UK and EU edge closer to a post-Brexit trade agreement, expected on Christmas Eve. Talks have continued through the night, with both parties close to resolving matters such as fishing rights. The current trade arrangement ends on December 31. Ms Phillips describes the union as “benign and benevolent” and said its “audacious demands made securing a progressive future relationship unattainable”. She said "leaving the horror bloc is not just preferable, but the only sane choice". 4:30am update: Pizza delivery spotted at Brussels as EU delegates review deal Eric Mamer, chief spokesman of the European Commission, posted a hilarious snap of MEPs pizza order as Brexit discussion carried on through the night. The spokesman took to Twitter to show off the haul as EU and UK teams scrutinised the terms of a potential trade deal. Social media snaps showed a large delivery dropped off to the Berlaymont HQ in Brussels, Belgium. 3:15am update: Christmas Brexit presser expected for early morning - Laura Kuenssberg Laura Kuenssberg, the BBC’s political editor, has said an early morning press conference detailing the Brexit plan has been scheduled. She said on Twitter: “Sounds like Brexit plan is now a very early morning press conference, rather than something in the middle of the night from Downing Street and Brussels.’ Ms Kuenssberg also quoted Eric Mamer, chief spokesman of the European Commission, who said: “Brexit work will continue throughout the night. Grabbing some sleep is recommended to all brexit-watchers at this point. “It will hopefully be an early start tomorrow morning…”
Boris Johnson is said to have 'lavished praise' on Michael Gove for his work during Brexit talks
1:30am update: Boris Johnson ‘lavished praise’ Michael Gove in conference call for Brexit deal The Prime Minister is said to have hailed Michael Gove’s work in a Zoom call with ministers late last night. Sources on the call told The Sun Boris Johnson “lavished praise” on his former rival for being “indispensable” in getting a trade deal with the EU, as well as in prepping for a no-deal Brexit should it occur. Mr Johnson then warned his ministers he would need them to “sell the deal”, and reassured them it allowed “both the UK and the EU to retain their sovereignty”. 12am update: EU diplomats claim Brexit deal already “agreed” - DW News German news outlet DW News reported two senior EU diplomats believe a Brexit deal is tentatively “agreed”, as rumours fly an end to the deadlocked negotiations is close. One source close to the talks told the outlet: “An agreement is in the air”. Ambassadors have penciled in a final meeting for Christmas Eve to approve the terms of the trade agreement between the UK and EU, but diplomats are cautious as they have not yet seen any copy of the accord. Another senior diplomat told DW: “It all depends on what has been agreed on fish.” Dylan Donnelly taking over live reporting from Paul Withers.
Boris Johnson has threatened to walk away from talks without a deal
10.35pm update: Boris Johnson to hold call with Cabinet in coming hours - Sky News The Prime Minister is set to hold a call with his Cabinet in the coming hours to update ministers on the progress of post-Brexit trade talks with the EU. The latest development comes following report an agreement between the two sides could be imminent. 9.30pm update: Boris CAVES on fishing - PM's massive EU trade deal compromise will spark Brexiteer fury Boris Johnson has made a significant compromise offer to the European Union on fishing quotas in order to get a Brexit trade deal over the line. The Prime Minister agreed to that Brussels would only have to give back 25 percent by value of their current catches in Britain’s coastal waters. The post-Brexit fishing agreement will feature a five-and-a-half-year transition period, during which the bloc's generous hauls from British waters would be phased down. A senior European source said this was a “big move by Johnson” to break the deadlock. The offer was a move on the previous attempt to reclaim 35 percent of the EU's catch back, over three years. But British officials are pleased with the outcome and feel they have won a significant victory over Brussels. The bloc was previously insisting on handing back just 15-18 percent of fish to UK vessels, over a 10-year period.
Brexit news: Boris Johnson has made a significant compromise offer to the EU on fishing quotas
8.27pm update: ERG vows to 'scrutinise' any UK-EU trade deal in detail The European Research Group (ERG) of pro-Brexit Conservative MPs has said it will "scrutinise" any trade deal between the UK and EU in detail if an agreement is reached on Wednesday night. The group said in a statement: "Assuming a deal between UK and the EU is officially confirmed tonight, the European Research Group will tomorrow reconvene the panel of legal experts, chaired by Sir William Cash MP, to examine the details of the deal and legal text. "The team of highly-experienced lawyers, previously known as the 'star chamber', was first assembled in 2019 to examine the legal aspects of Theresa May's original Withdrawal Agreement. "Given that the new agreement is also highly complex, the star chamber will scrutinise it in detail, to ensure that its provisions genuinely protect the sovereignty of the United Kingdom after we exit the transition period at the end of this year. "The star chamber, which will include some new members to replace those now in Government, will undertake its examination as expeditiously as possible before providing its conclusions on the merits of the deal - which we will aim to make public before Parliament reconvenes." 7.56pm update: Brexit poised to 'start chain reaction leading to huge disaster for EU' Brexit poses huge challenges for the EU as a former bloc insider warns that Brexit could be the beginning of a huge disaster for the bloc. Brexit trade talks could be coming to a conclusion as reports suggest a deal is hours away from being agreed. fter four years of chaos during withdrawal negotiations and months of deadlock in trade talks, one senior EU source told the Guardian this evening: “The stars have aligned.” Both sides have said they would prefer a deal, so tonight's reported breakthrough could ease nerves surrounding Brexit both in London and in Brussels. But Brexit still represents a seismic moment in the history of Europe, and one former EU insider warned last year that Brexit and other crises facing the bloc could lead to a "huge disaster". German philosopher and historian Ulrike Guerot, who has previously worked with former President of the EU Commission, Jacques Delors, made the warning in a documentary aired by VPRO in 2019.
Brexit news: A former EU insider has warned Brexit could be the beginning of a huge disaster for the bloc
7.15pm update: Meddling SNP intervenes in Brexit talks as Scotland pledges to hold secret EU discussions Nicola Sturgeon and the SNP-led Scottish Government have pledged to stay in direct contact with Brussels as a Brexit trade deal is "imminent" sparking a rift in Holyrood. The SNP have been opposed to the UK leaving the EU and have vowed to rejoin the bloc as soon as possible if they achieve independence in a second referendum. The party, which leads the Scottish Government, have been at loggerheads with the UK Government and Boris Johnson claiming Scotland has been taken out of Scotland “against its will”. A Senior Scottish Government source said this evening Scotland’s interests would “always be stood up for.” They said: “We liaise closely with Brussels and will continue to do so after the end of the transition period.” 6pm update: French official claims 'British made huge concessions' in trade talks A French official has claimed Britain has made significant concessions in Brexit trade talks over the past two days. The source, who declined to be named, told Reuters: "The British have made huge concessions in the negotiations in the past 48 hours." The insider also warned that on fishing in particular, the latest position from the UK was "far" from the three-year access to British waters and 80 percent reduction in quotas offered by London a week ago. 5.03pm update: Fishing boss lists FIVE areas Brexit deal must be judged on for Brexiteers to give backing UK fishermen MUST get the lion's share of the catch in UK seas as part of any post-Brexit trade deal, an industry leader has warned. Barrie Deas, chief executive of the National Federation of Fisherman's Organisations (NFFO), also outlined five key tests any agreement needed to pass before being deemed acceptable to his members. Mr Deas was speaking after widespread reports suggested UK chief negotiator Lord David Frost was preparing to sign the UK up for a deal which would cut demands for a 60 percent reduction in the catch by value in British waters to 35 percent - much nearer to the 25 percent proposed by the EU. The claims were subsequently dismissed in no uncertain terms by Number 10.
Brexit news: Nicola Sturgeon and the SNP-led Scottish Government have pledged to stay in direct contact with Brussels
4.35pm update: Brexiteers OUTRAGED after EU says talks could extend into 2021: 'Get out of our waters!' Brexit supporters have reacted with fury to the suggestion by the EU that trade talks could be carried over into January, after the UK has left the transition period on December 31. Furious Britons flocked to social media to warn Boris Johnson not to cave into the Europeans’ demands, telling him: “Get them out of our waters, stop giving in to them.” Michel Barnier said Britain’s proposals on fishing quotas were “unacceptable” as an EU diplomat said the bloc “remains ready to negotiate even beyond January 1”. One person said given the amount of Brexit delays and missed deadlines, the UK would appear “needy and desperate” if it extended the negotiations to suit the EU. They wrote: “We are starting to look like a very needy and desperate country. “Boris, you are making us look foolish and weak, which your people are not.” 3.26pm update: Pound surges against euro and US dollar over reports trade deal is near Sterling has jumped against both the euro and US dollar amid signs the UK and EU are finally on the brink of clinching a post-Brexit trade deal. The British currency has surged one percent against the euro to 90.15 pence and ahs risen 1.15 percent against the US dollar to $1.3537. MUG strategist Lee Hardman said: "The market is anticipating that a deal will be agreed in the next day or two. "The best case scenario for the pound would be if we also see details released form the EU and UK side of things alongside the deal to try and reduce the initial disruption when we shift to a new trading arrangement."
Brexit news: Furious Britons have flocked to social media to warn Boris Johnson not to cave into EU demands
3.19pm update: Downing Street source pours cold water on reports trade deal is imminent The UK and EU are still in talks over a post-Brexit trade deal, a Government source has said, after Brussels diplomats suggested an agreement could be reached imminently. The Number 10 source said: "Negotiations are ongoing." 3.17pm update: 'Deal is NOT finalised' - Laura Kuenssberg The BBC's Laura Kuenssberg has said the UK's chief Brexit negotiator David Frost and top EU official Stephanie Riso are still negotiating in Brussels and that a deal has not been finalised yet. She tweeted: "David Frost and EU’s Steph Riso are still in negotiating room in Brussels - deal is NOT finalised. "Seems very likely it’s heading that way tonight but not signed and sealed." 3.10pm update: Brexit trade deal 'pretty much there' - senior EU diplomat A Brexit trade deal between London and Brussels is imminent and could be clinched within hours, a senior EU diplomat has told Reuters. The insider said EU member states would still have to approve a provisional application of the deal with effect from January 1 as time has run out for the European Parliament to ratify it. Three diplomatic sources told Reuters the bloc's member states have started to prepare their procedure to implement any deal from the start of next year. One EU diplomat said: "It seems the deal is pretty much there. It's a matter of announcing it today or tomorrow."
Brexit news: Laura Kuenssberg said a trade deal has not been finalised
Paul Withers taking over live reporting from Luke Hawker. 2.25pm update: Brexit deal could be signed TODAY – 2,000 pages completed A Brexit deal between the UK and EU could be signed as early as today, it is understood. Brexit negotiators are thought to have completed around 2,000 pages of legal texts, but a deal is being halted over a row over the car industry, The Sun reports. Harry Cole, political editor at The Sun, said: "British and EU negotiators are hoping to shake on the 2,000 page accord this afternoon or tomorrow morning - but progress is being held up by a row about electric cars.” 2.00pm update: Boris set for talks with Ursula von der Leyen tonight Boris Johnson and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are set to hold talks over the phone later this evening as a Brexit deal nears.
Ursula von der Leyen is preparing EU leaders for an emergency meeting
1.40pm update: EU27 put on standby by von der Leyen EU member states have been put on standby by the European Commission for a meeting on Thursday, according to EU sources, as a Brexit trade deal edges nearer 1.10pm update: Nigel Farage lets rip at 'arrogant' Macron ally after astonishing swipe at Britain Nigel Farage has lambasted Emmanuel Macron's "arrogant" sidekick Clement Beaune after the French minister taunted the UK over the blockade of UK lorries and boasted that there would be no food shortages in his own country.
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. 12.35pm update: Guy Verhofstadt thanked as 'useful idiot' makes case for Brexit with every remark Guy Verhofstadt, the former Belgian Prime Minister and long-term Brexit critic on social media, has been branded a "useful idiot" who underlines the reasons underpinning the UK's decision to quit the bloc every time he tweets. 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 useful idiot."
Guy Verhofstadt has been condemned by a leading Brexiteer
12.20pm update: ‘It's all down to fish!’ Irish PM says fisheries only stumbling block to a deal Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin said fishing was the main obstacle in the way of a deal after movement on the so-called level playing field on completion. He said: “It's all down to fish, it would appear right now "There was a lot of progress made on the level playing field over the last two to three weeks and it's very difficult for all involved but the gap is still wide on fish, and for fishing communities in Ireland it's a time of worry." 12.00pm update: POLL: Should Boris walk away from Brexit talks after Macron shut the border? VOTE HERE Brexit trade talks remain on the brink with just days to go until the end of the transition period and relations between the UK and France have been strained after Emmanuel Macron temporarily shut the border over coronavirus fears. Should the Prime Minister walk away from Brexit talks after the French President closed down the border? Vote now. 11.15am update: Ireland expects Brexit deal to be reached Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin says he expects a trade deal to be reached in the coming days and warned a no deal outcome would provide an “appalling shock” to the economies in Europe and UK. He said: “On balance I think given the progress that has been made that there should be a deal. "And I think that a no deal would be an appalling shock to the economic system on top of Covid-19 which has really hit the respective of economies of the UK, Ireland and the EU member states. "In particular, our domestic economy has taken a very big hit. And so we do need a deal."
Micheal Martin has warned of the economic damage of a no deal Brexit
11.00am update: Irish PM says officials could thrash out a Brexit deal on Christmas Day Taoiseach Micheal Martin has raised the prospect of officials working on the text of a Brexit deal on Christmas Day if a breakthrough comes before then. He said: "If you had a breakthrough tonight or tomorrow officials in Europe could be working Christmas Day on the text.” 10.30am update: Brexiteer says Marcon and Barnier plotting Brexit extension Former Brexit Party MEP Alex Phillips has claimed Emmanuel Macron and Michel Barnier will attempt to delay Brexit beyond the December 31 deadline. Speaking to TalkRADIO, Ms Phillips explained talks could continue in areas where an agreement is not reach in a so-called “sectoral extension”. She said: ““There are various ways this could play out. "The French press who are often well versed by Macron or Barnier seem to think that there would be sectoral by sectoral extensions. "That would mean maintaining the status quo in areas that have not been decided so negotiations can continue, essentially transition in all but name being extended. "I think it is very likely we will have a deal because there are already thousands of pages of legalise covering about 98 percent of stuff that has already been negotiated.”
Brexit: EU planning for a 'transition in all but name' says Phillips
10.10am update: Andrew Adonis calls on PM to delay then cancel Brexit Andrew Adonis has called on Boris Johnson to delay Brexit beyond the December 31 deadline and use the time to cancel leaving the EU. In a post on Twitter, the ardent Remainer said: “It is obvious that we should be delaying the end of the transition beyond next week, and use the delay to reverse Brexit.” 9.45am update: ‘Delay will NOT happen’ Brexiteer Kate Hoey blasts 'desperate' demand for Brexit extension Brexiteer Kate Hoey has said a delay to crucial trade talks "will not happen" and has told a Tory MP he looks "desperate" for issuing a last-minute plea on the matter. The former MP for Vauxhall and current Labour peer offered a stern response to remarks made by Simon Hoare, Conservative MP for North Dorset. Mr Hoare, chairman of the Northern Ireland Select Committee, said he would “really like to see the clock temporarily ‘stopped’ on Brexit talks” amid the “worsening Covid situation”. He said: “There’s no Parliament time to scrutinise and agree a deal and daily clarity of the dangers to our already pressured economy of no deal is alarming. Time for maturity.” Baroness Hoey, tweeting in response, said Mr Hoare looked “slightly desperate”, and dismissed the idea of a delay to the December 31 deadline. She wrote: “Dear Simon. You have done everything you could to stop Brexit since the referendum. But you failed. Now you are just looking slightly desperate. Time to accept that despite being a chair of a Select Committee you are not in Government and a delay will not happen.”
A timeline of Brexit talks with the EU
9.20am update: Michel Barnier sets NEW Brexit deadline The UK is heading for a no deal Brexit unless a trade agreement with the European Union is found by tomorrow, EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier has warned. According to a leaked memo, seen by Express.co.uk, Mr Barnier said: “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.” READ MORE: Michel Barnier sets NEW Brexit deadline - No deal looms if agreement not clinched in hours 9.00am update: Jenrick ‘optimistic’ Brexit deal can be reached if key issue resolved Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick has said he is “optimistic” a trade deal can be reached with the EU before the deadline if issues around sovereignty can be resolved. Speaking on BBC Radio 4's Today programme, he said:"We want to ensure that we have arrangements in both respects that ensure that we continue to be an independent, sovereign nation. "And so getting those details right is very important, and the Prime Minister, I think, is aligned to the fact that this is an agreement that is likely to last for a long time. "We want to make sure that it is right for the country before he can recommend it to Parliament." Mr Jenrick added: "I'm optimistic, I hope that we can reach an agreement, but we will need to get those final issues resolved, and there's some way further to go on that."
EU nations most reliant on UK fishing waters


thedailyexpress--2020-12-23--Boris Johnson issued stern warning by Tory Brexiteers over trade deal with Brussels

British and EU negotiators remain locked in talks in Brussels as they desperately attempt to compromise on a trade deal that has been nine months in the making .
Several deadlines have been missed in that time , with both sides at loggerheads over crucial red lines , predominantly fisheries and Brussels ' level playing field measures aimed at preventing unfair competition on standards and state subsidies .
Both of these have continued to be stumbling blocks and have threatened a total collapse of post-Brexit trade talks between the UK and EU .
But reports have emerged on Wednesday that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suggesting compromises may have been made from one or both sides in either to get a deal over the line before the transition period ends on December 31 .
Any trade deal would first have to be voted on by MPs in the House of Commons , which would likely have to take place in a matter of days .
Now the Tory European Research Group ( ERG ) of pro-Brexit Conservative MPs have insisted it will examine any trade agreement in detail if a deal is indeed reached between the UK and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has vowed it would reconvene its so-called `` star chamber '' of `` highly-experienced lawyers '' to scrutinise all aspects of any trade deal .
The ERG said in a statement on Wednesday : `` Assuming a deal between UK and the EU is officially confirmed tonight , the European Research Group will tomorrow reconvene the panel of legal experts , chaired by Sir William Cash MP , to examine the details of the deal and legal text .
`` The team of highly-experienced lawyers , previously known as the 'star chamber ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ examine the legal aspects of Theresa May 's original Withdrawal Agreement .
`` Given that the new agreement is also highly complex , the star chamber will scrutinise it in detail , to ensure that its provisions genuinely protect the sovereignty of the United Kingdom after we exit the transition period at the end of this year .
`` The star chamber , which will include some new members to replace those now in Government , will undertake its examination as expeditiously as possible before providing its conclusions on the merits of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make public before Parliament reconvenes . ''
READ MORE : Brexit deal : When would an EU Brexit deal be ratified ?
The ERG , headed by chairman Mark Francois , has kept a close eye on Brexit developments since the UK voted to leave the EU during the historic referendum in June 2016 .
The Prime Minister will be fully aware of the ERG 's influence in the Commons due to the number of high profile politicians that are part of the group .
They also proved to be a major thorn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Theresa May , repeatedly voting against the Brexit deal she had agreed with the EU .
Earlier on Wednesday , France boasted Britain has made significant concessions over fishing in Brexit trade talks over the past two days .
DO N'T MISS Brexit poised to 'start chain reaction leading to disaster for EU ' [ INTERVIEW ] Meddling SNP intervenes in Brexit talks as Sturgeon pledges position [ COMMENT ] Boris told to scrap Brexit trade talks over Macron 's border chaos [ OPINION ] The French official , who declined to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ British have made huge concessions in the negotiations in the past 48 hours . ''
The insider also warned that on fishing , in particular , the latest position from the UK was `` far '' from the three-year access to British waters and 80 percent reduction in quotas offered by London a week ago .
Mr Johnson has repeatedly said no-deal is the most likely outcome from trade talks with the EU , with the UK then falling back on terms set by the World Trade Organisation ( WTO ) meaning tariffs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

Brexit: Lord Adonis grilled by host over calls for extension
British and EU negotiators remain locked in talks in Brussels as they desperately attempt to compromise on a trade deal that has been nine months in the making. Several deadlines have been missed in that time, with both sides at loggerheads over crucial red lines, predominantly fisheries and Brussels' level playing field measures aimed at preventing unfair competition on standards and state subsidies. Both of these have continued to be stumbling blocks and have threatened a total collapse of post-Brexit trade talks between the UK and EU.
Trending
But reports have emerged on Wednesday that an agreement could finally be close, suggesting compromises may have been made from one or both sides in either to get a deal over the line before the transition period ends on December 31. Any trade deal would first have to be voted on by MPs in the House of Commons, which would likely have to take place in a matter of days. Now the Tory European Research Group (ERG) of pro-Brexit Conservative MPs have insisted it will examine any trade agreement in detail if a deal is indeed reached between the UK and EU on Wednesday evening. The body has vowed it would reconvene its so-called "star chamber" of "highly-experienced lawyers" to scrutinise all aspects of any trade deal.
Brexit news: Boris Johnson has been sent a warning by Tory Brexiteers
Brexit news: Boris johnson has said the UK will 'take back control'
The ERG said in a statement on Wednesday: "Assuming a deal between UK and the EU is officially confirmed tonight, the European Research Group will tomorrow reconvene the panel of legal experts, chaired by Sir William Cash MP, to examine the details of the deal and legal text. "The team of highly-experienced lawyers, previously known as the 'star chamber', was first assembled in 2019 to examine the legal aspects of Theresa May's original Withdrawal Agreement. "Given that the new agreement is also highly complex, the star chamber will scrutinise it in detail, to ensure that its provisions genuinely protect the sovereignty of the United Kingdom after we exit the transition period at the end of this year. "The star chamber, which will include some new members to replace those now in Government, will undertake its examination as expeditiously as possible before providing its conclusions on the merits of the deal - which we will aim to make public before Parliament reconvenes." READ MORE: Brexit deal: When would an EU Brexit deal be ratified?
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Brexit news: ERG chairman Mark Francois
The ERG, headed by chairman Mark Francois, has kept a close eye on Brexit developments since the UK voted to leave the EU during the historic referendum in June 2016. The Prime Minister will be fully aware of the ERG's influence in the Commons due to the number of high profile politicians that are part of the group. They also proved to be a major thorn in the side of former Prime Minister Theresa May, repeatedly voting against the Brexit deal she had agreed with the EU. Earlier on Wednesday, France boasted Britain has made significant concessions over fishing in Brexit trade talks over the past two days. DON'T MISS
Brexit poised to 'start chain reaction leading to disaster for EU' [INTERVIEW]
Meddling SNP intervenes in Brexit talks as Sturgeon pledges position [COMMENT]
Boris told to scrap Brexit trade talks over Macron's border chaos [OPINION]
Brexit news: Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen
Brexit news: Clement Beaune sent a warning to the UK
The French official, who declined to be named, told Reuters: "The British have made huge concessions in the negotiations in the past 48 hours." The insider also warned that on fishing, in particular, the latest position from the UK was "far" from the three-year access to British waters and 80 percent reduction in quotas offered by London a week ago. Mr Johnson has repeatedly said no-deal is the most likely outcome from trade talks with the EU, with the UK then falling back on terms set by the World Trade Organisation (WTO) meaning tariffs and quotas on trade with the EU.
Brexit news: European fishing dependence on British waters


thedailyexpress--2020-12-23--Boris CAVES on fishing: PM's massive EU trade deal compromise will spark Brexiteer fury

The Prime Minister agreed to that Brussels would only have to give back 25 percent by value of their current catches in Britain ’ s coastal waters .
The post-Brexit fishing agreement will feature a five-and-a-half-year transition period , during which the bloc 's generous hauls from British waters would be phased down .
A senior European source said this was a “ big move by Johnson ” to break the deadlock .
The offer was a move on the previous attempt to reclaim 35 percent of the EU 's catch back , over three years .
But British officials @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they have won a significant victory over Brussels .
The bloc was previously insisting on handing back just 15-18 percent of fish to UK vessels , over a 10-year period .
It will mean that Britain finally reclaims control of its fishing waters 10 years after the country voted to quit the EU in June 2016 .
After the transition period , the Government will be freely to decide on access to our fishing grounds .
The bloc has also dropped a demand for a `` punishment clause '' that would have allowed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ European boats are locked out of our waters in the future .
Express.co.uk understands the UK has secured a number of other concessions across the deal , including on so-called rules of origin and batteries for electric vehicles .
UK Brexit envoy Lord Frost is still haggling over the deal with his EU counterparts in Brussels .
The final wrangling over the post-Brexit trade and security deal is expected to go late into the night .
Prime Minister Mr Johnson and Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are now expected to unveil the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has told colleagues the post-Brexit deal will pave the way for a “ new generation of free-trade agreement ” .
According to EU insiders , the Brussels diplomat believes the so-called “ level-playing field ” provision will be widely adopted in future negotiations between other independent states .
In one private meeting , Mr Barnier said : “ The agreement between the United Kingdom and the European Union could serve as a model for future free-trade agreements , so that all of them would follow this model .

Pound to euro exchange rate climbs as Brexit talks near agreement
The Prime Minister agreed to that Brussels would only have to give back 25 percent by value of their current catches in Britain’s coastal waters. The post-Brexit fishing agreement will feature a five-and-a-half-year transition period, during which the bloc's generous hauls from British waters would be phased down. A senior European source said this was a “big move by Johnson” to break the deadlock.
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The offer was a move on the previous attempt to reclaim 35 percent of the EU's catch back, over three years. But British officials are pleased with the outcome and feel they have won a significant victory over Brussels. The bloc was previously insisting on handing back just 15-18 percent of fish to UK vessels, over a 10-year period. It will mean that Britain finally reclaims control of its fishing waters 10 years after the country voted to quit the EU in June 2016.
Boris Johnson has lowered his fishing demands to get a Brexit trade deal across the line
After the transition period, the Government will be freely to decide on access to our fishing grounds. The bloc has also dropped a demand for a "punishment clause" that would have allowed Brussels to slap Britain with tariffs if European boats are locked out of our waters in the future. Express.co.uk understands the UK has secured a number of other concessions across the deal, including on so-called rules of origin and batteries for electric vehicles.
UK Brexit envoy Lord Frost is still haggling over the deal with his EU counterparts in Brussels. The final wrangling over the post-Brexit trade and security deal is expected to go late into the night. Prime Minister Mr Johnson and Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are now expected to unveil the pact on Christmas Eve.
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Mr Barnier has told colleagues the post-Brexit deal will pave the way for a “new generation of free-trade agreement”. According to EU insiders, the Brussels diplomat believes the so-called “level-playing field” provision will be widely adopted in future negotiations between other independent states. In one private meeting, Mr Barnier said: “The agreement between the United Kingdom and the European Union could serve as a model for future free-trade agreements, so that all of them would follow this model.


thedailyexpress--2020-12-23--Brexiteer lists FIVE tests for Boris’s imminent Brexit deal and warns PM ‘will be toast'

Former Brexit Party MEP Jake Pugh has come up with the five tests for Brexiteers to analyse the 2,000 pages of the Brexit deal , which is expected to be announced tonight .
He warned the treaty must pass the tests , or Boris Johnson “ will be toast ” .
Mr Pugh told Express.co.uk the five tests are : “ 1 .
To what extent is the freedom to diverge allowed by LPF ( level playing field ) .
“ 2 .
Is Northern Ireland still carved off from Great Britain ?
“ 3 .
Terms of fish access @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
What has been agreed on services .
The Brexiteer then issued a stark warning to the Prime Minister and said he was concerned the Brexit deal will be rushed through Parliament without scrutiny .
He said : “ Also , very concerned that such a critical International Treaty is rushed through just before Christmas and with close to zero scrutiny .
“ But beware , if Boris has caved , Brexiteers will spot it and he will be toast.
” The UK and Brussels are set to announce the details of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the two sides are believed to have compromised on the three major sticking points .
A French official has told Reuters Britain has caved on its fishing demands .
They said : “ The British made huge concessions ” in the last 24 hours .
There has been no official confirmation from either side that a deal was about to be struck .

Pound to euro exchange rate climbs as Brexit talks near agreement
Former Brexit Party MEP Jake Pugh has come up with the five tests for Brexiteers to analyse the 2,000 pages of the Brexit deal, which is expected to be announced tonight. He warned the treaty must pass the tests, or Boris Johnson “will be toast”.
Trending
Mr Pugh told Express.co.uk the five tests are: “1. To what extent is the freedom to diverge allowed by LPF (level playing field). “2. Is Northern Ireland still carved off from Great Britain? “3. Terms of fish access and length of duration. “4. What has been agreed on services.
A Brexiteer has listed five key tests for Boris Johnson’s imminent Brexit deal with the EU
Brexit news: A Brexit deal is set to be announced shortly
“5. Terms of any cross retaliation.” The Brexiteer then issued a stark warning to the Prime Minister and said he was concerned the Brexit deal will be rushed through Parliament without scrutiny. He said: “Also, very concerned that such a critical International Treaty is rushed through just before Christmas and with close to zero scrutiny. “But beware, if Boris has caved, Brexiteers will spot it and he will be toast.”
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Brexit news: French officials have said the UK has caved on its fishing demands
The UK and Brussels are set to announce the details of a post-Brexit deal either tonight or tomorrow as the two sides are believed to have compromised on the three major sticking points. A French official has told Reuters Britain has caved on its fishing demands. They said: “The British made huge concessions” in the last 24 hours. There has been no official confirmation from either side that a deal was about to be struck.
Brexit news: How a trade deal will be signed off


thedailyexpress--2020-12-23--Nicola Sturgeon ordered to 'focus on Covid' and 'step away from criticising Brexit'

Nicola Sturgeon has already said she wants to hold another vote on the future of the UK `` early '' in the next Holyrood term .
But Scottish Secretary Alister Jack has said her obsession with independence is a distraction from the pandemic .
He said that she should be focused on the health of Scots instead .
Speaking to ITV 's Representing Border , Mr Jack said : `` Nicola Sturgeon seems to think that Brexit is a distraction at the time of Covid .
`` I say to her that at a time of obsessing about an independence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He added : `` I think she needs to step back from that and just focus on Covid .
`` That 's where her responsibility lies , health is devolved .
READ MORE : Nicola Sturgeon HUMILIATED as FM rebuked for THIRD time over stats '' Brexit negotiations are for the UK Government and we have taken into account the event of a no deal Brexit .
`` We have prioritisations for that . ''
It comes as said she has `` no excuses '' for breaking coronavirus rules , as she apologised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a bar not wearing a face mask .
A picture published in the Scottish Sun shows the First Minister chatting to three women while standing at a distance but without wearing a mask .
Under Scottish Government coronavirus rules , customers in hospitality venues must wear a face covering except when seated , and they must wear one when moving around .
Ms Sturgeon was in the bar last Friday for a funeral wake for a Scottish Government civil servant .
Speaking at the start of First Minister 's Questions at Holyrood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I want to take this opportunity to say how sorry I am for my breach of rules that I ask all of us to follow every single day .
`` I took my face mask off while briefly attending a funeral last week , I 'm sure everyone will have seen in the media this morning a picture of me without it .
Furious Scots demand Nicola Sturgeon resign after breaching Covid law [ INSIGHT ] Sturgeon warned Scotland will endure 'austerity like Croatia ' [ ANALYSIS ] Nicola Sturgeon branded an 'evil @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ VIDEO ]

Sturgeon slammed for independence 'obsession' by Alister Jack
Nicola Sturgeon has already said she wants to hold another vote on the future of the UK "early" in the next Holyrood term. But Scottish Secretary Alister Jack has said her obsession with independence is a distraction from the pandemic. He said that she should be focused on the health of Scots instead.
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Speaking to ITV's Representing Border, Mr Jack said: "Nicola Sturgeon seems to think that Brexit is a distraction at the time of Covid. "I say to her that at a time of obsessing about an independence referendum is a bigger distraction." He added: "I think she needs to step back from that and just focus on Covid. "That's where her responsibility lies, health is devolved. READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon HUMILIATED as FM rebuked for THIRD time over stats
Nicola Sturgeon has been told to "focus on Covid by Scottish Secretary Alister Jack
Alister Jack said r obsession with independence is a distraction from the pandemic
"Brexit negotiations are for the UK Government and we have taken into account the event of a no deal Brexit. "We have prioritisations for that." It comes as said she has "no excuses" for breaking coronavirus rules, as she apologised in the Scottish Parliament after being photographed in a bar not wearing a face mask. A picture published in the Scottish Sun shows the First Minister chatting to three women while standing at a distance but without wearing a mask.
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Nicola Sturgeon has already said she wants to hold another vote on the future of the UK
Nicola Sturgeon: Ashworth discusses ‘silly mistake’ by SNP leader
Under Scottish Government coronavirus rules, customers in hospitality venues must wear a face covering except when seated, and they must wear one when moving around. Ms Sturgeon was in the bar last Friday for a funeral wake for a Scottish Government civil servant. Speaking at the start of First Minister's Questions at Holyrood on Wednesday, she said: "I want to take this opportunity to say how sorry I am for my breach of rules that I ask all of us to follow every single day. "I took my face mask off while briefly attending a funeral last week, I'm sure everyone will have seen in the media this morning a picture of me without it. DON'T MISS Furious Scots demand Nicola Sturgeon resign after breaching Covid law [INSIGHT]
Sturgeon warned Scotland will endure 'austerity like Croatia' [ANALYSIS]
Nicola Sturgeon branded an 'evil mastermind' as she pushes SNP agenda [VIDEO]
Should Scotland be independent?


thedailyexpress--2020-12-23--Brexiteers OUTRAGED after EU says talks could extend into 2021: 'Get out of our waters!'

Furious Britons flocked to social media to warn Boris Johnson not to cave into the Europeans ’ demands , telling him : “ Get them out of our waters , stop giving in to them.
” Michel Barnier said Britain ’ s proposals on fishing quotas were “ unacceptable ” as an EU diplomat said the bloc “ remains ready to negotiate even beyond January 1 ” .
One person said given the amount of Brexit delays and missed deadlines , the UK would appear “ needy and desperate ” if it extended the negotiations to suit the EU .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to look like a very needy and desperate country .
“ Boris , you are making us look foolish and weak , which your people are not.
” And another social media user said the Prime Minister should send a clear message to Brussels that “ Europe does not dictate what the British people want - the British people decide.
” Yet a third rejected outright any extension to the talks They wrote : “ No more extensions Boris , you are looking like the weakest link .
“ No deal now and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our waters , stop giving in to them .
“ We do not want a weakest link Prime Minister , you will be the laughing stock of the world .
Get out today.
” Another person said the latest comments from Eurocrats suggest they have still not grasped the mood of the British public , four-and-a-half years after they voted to break ties with the bloc .
They said the EU side has had months to reach a free trade deal with the UK but was too “ arrogant ” to compromise on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Macron handed lesson in 'how to lose an election' Shutting down calls for an extension , they said : “ No , no , no .
You had your chance , you blew it with demands and being arrogant .
“ What you don ’ t understand is no one wants anything to do with you.
” One woman said Mr Johnson should know by now that no matter how much time Brussels is given , they will never agree a deal which respects the UK ’ s right to be a sovereign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve had four years of this- enough is enough .
“ End it now , it ’ s pointless to carry on .
DO N'T MISS Brexit extension : Will the transition period be extended into new year ?
[ EXPLAINED ] Pound to euro rate : GBP Sterling in biggest rise in a month [ INSIGHT ] EU insider admits ' I understand why UK voted for Brexit ' [ ANALYSIS ] “ They will never do a deal that respects our sovereignty and gives us control over our waters.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open to the idea of trade talks taking place in January - but not as part of an extension .
He said if the meetings fail to deliver a breakthrough between Mr Barnier and the UK ’ s Brexit envoy Lord Frost , Britain should head for a no deal exit .
But the Brexit supporter suggested that if the EU had a change of heart in the new year , they could restart a new round of discussions .
Earlier , an EU diplomat said : “ Progress has been made .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to being agreed .
However , differences on fisheries remain difficult to bridge .
Unfortunately , the UK is not moving enough yet to clinch a fair deal on fisheries .
“ EU negotiators are in a last push now to make progress and to clinch a deal acceptable for both sides .
“ The EU will not close its door to the UK and remains ready to negotiate even beyond January 1 .
”

Brexit: Lord Adonis grilled by host over calls for extension
Furious Britons flocked to social media to warn Boris Johnson not to cave into the Europeans’ demands, telling him: “Get them out of our waters, stop giving in to them.” Michel Barnier said Britain’s proposals on fishing quotas were “unacceptable” as an EU diplomat said the bloc “remains ready to negotiate even beyond January 1”.
Trending
One person said given the amount of Brexit delays and missed deadlines, the UK would appear “needy and desperate” if it extended the negotiations to suit the EU.
They wrote: “We are starting to look like a very needy and desperate country.
“Boris, you are making us look foolish and weak, which your people are not.” And another social media user said the Prime Minister should send a clear message to Brussels that “Europe does not dictate what the British people want - the British people decide.” Yet a third rejected outright any extension to the talks
Boris Johnson has been warned against extending trade talks after the EU's suggestion
Brexit supporters have warned Boris Johnson not to extend trade talks into 2021
They wrote: “No more extensions Boris, you are looking like the weakest link. “No deal now and full sovereignty, get them out of our waters, stop giving in to them. “We do not want a weakest link Prime Minister, you will be the laughing stock of the world. Get out today.” Another person said the latest comments from Eurocrats suggest they have still not grasped the mood of the British public, four-and-a-half years after they voted to break ties with the bloc. They said the EU side has had months to reach a free trade deal with the UK but was too “arrogant” to compromise on key issues. READ MORE: Emmanuel Macron handed lesson in 'how to lose an election'
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Boris Johnson was told he would look like 'the weakest link' if he extended trade talks
Michel Barnier has said talks have reached a 'crucial moment'
Lord Frost remains in Brussels negotiating with the EU
“They will never do a deal that respects our sovereignty and gives us control over our waters.” However, one man said he was open to the idea of trade talks taking place in January - but not as part of an extension. He said if the meetings fail to deliver a breakthrough between Mr Barnier and the UK’s Brexit envoy Lord Frost, Britain should head for a no deal exit. But the Brexit supporter suggested that if the EU had a change of heart in the new year, they could restart a new round of discussions.
Pound to euro exchange rate climbs as Brexit talks near agreement
He wrote: “Finish the talks. If they want to come back in January the ball is in their court. “Obviously out of our waters completely on January 1.” On Tuesday Brussels’ chief negotiator said talks had reached a “crucial moment” ahead of a meeting of the EU27 ambassadors. On Wednesday a European Commission source said the talks were in the final stages.
Lord Frost pictured in Brussels


thedailyexpress--2020-12-23--South Africa Covid strain ARRIVES in UK - Warning issued at 'highly concerning' mutation

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has announced two cases have been detected of another new strain of the coronavirus in the UK .
The new mutation was first recorded in South Africa earlier in the month .
Mr Hancock said : `` Both are contacts of cases who have travelled from South Africa over the past few weeks . ''
The Conservative frontbencher added : `` We are incredibly grateful to the South African government for the rigour of their science and the openness and the transparency with which they have rightly acted as we did when we discovered a new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` This new variant is highly concerning because it is yet more transmissible and it appears to have mutated further than the new variant that has been discovered in the UK . ''
He said both cases and close contacts have already been quarantined as he announced immediate restrictions will be placed on travel from South Africa The Government has been advising those who have been in contact with anyone who visited South Africa in the last fortnight that they must quarantine .
JUST IN : Tier 4 EXTENDED : More of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ variant out of control He added : `` These measures are temporary while we investigate further this new strain which is shortly to be analysed at Porton Down . ''
South Africa has been battling a new variant of the virus for the past few weeks now , with health officials struggling to contain a second wave of COVID-19 cases .
Prof Salim Abdool Karim , from the South African Government 's Ministerial Advisory Committee ( MAC ) said : `` It is still very early but at this stage , the preliminary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dominating in the second wave is spreading faster than the first wave . ''
The Committee has warned locals they may see `` many more cases '' in this new surge of infections .
READ MORE : Tier 3 imposed on millions more from Boxing Day as Matt Hancock issues warning - full list The fast transmissibility of the mutation spurred the Government into issuing a series of new restrictions , including a near-complete lockdown for London and Kent .
New restrictions are also due to come into effect from Boxing Day across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hancock said : `` From 00.01 on Boxing Day Sussex , Oxfordshire , Suffolk , Norfolk and Cambridgeshire , those parts of Essex not yet in Tier 4 , Waverley in Surrey and Hampshire including Portsmouth and Southampton but with the exception of the New Forest will all be escalated to Tier 4 .
Bristol , Gloucestershire , Somerset including the North Somerset council area , Swindon , the Isle of Wight , the New Forest and Northamptonshire as well as Chesire and Warrington will all be escalated to Tier 3 .
DO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lorry drivers clash with border police [ VIDEO ] French truckers slam Emmanuel Macron for port delays 'Brexit revenge ' [ ANALYSIS ] Emmanuel Macron proved he is no friend to Britain as chaos hit border [ REACTION ]

Matt Hancock outlines details of new variant from South Africa
Health Secretary Matt Hancock has announced two cases have been detected of another new strain of the coronavirus in the UK. The new mutation was first recorded in South Africa earlier in the month. Mr Hancock said: "Both are contacts of cases who have travelled from South Africa over the past few weeks."
Trending
The Conservative frontbencher added: "We are incredibly grateful to the South African government for the rigour of their science and the openness and the transparency with which they have rightly acted as we did when we discovered a new variant here." Mr Hancock continued: "This new variant is highly concerning because it is yet more transmissible and it appears to have mutated further than the new variant that has been discovered in the UK." He said both cases and close contacts have already been quarantined as he announced immediate restrictions will be placed on travel from South Africa The Government has been advising those who have been in contact with anyone who visited South Africa in the last fortnight that they must quarantine. JUST IN: Tier 4 EXTENDED: More of UK plunged into lockdown as 'dangerous' variant out of control
South African travel will come under new restrictions after another strain was identified
Matt Hancock said two cases of the South Africa strain had been identified in the UK
He added: "These measures are temporary while we investigate further this new strain which is shortly to be analysed at Porton Down." South Africa has been battling a new variant of the virus for the past few weeks now, with health officials struggling to contain a second wave of COVID-19 cases. Prof Salim Abdool Karim, from the South African Government's Ministerial Advisory Committee (MAC) said: "It is still very early but at this stage, the preliminary data suggests the virus that is now dominating in the second wave is spreading faster than the first wave." The Committee has warned locals they may see "many more cases" in this new surge of infections. READ MORE: Tier 3 imposed on millions more from Boxing Day as Matt Hancock issues warning - full list
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Coronavirus variant: Expert outlines details of new strain
Coronavirus Tier 4 has been expanded to cover Sussex, Oxfordshire and Norfolk among others
The fast transmissibility of the mutation spurred the Government into issuing a series of new restrictions, including a near-complete lockdown for London and Kent. New restrictions are also due to come into effect from Boxing Day across larger areas of the UK. Mr Hancock said: "From 00.01 on Boxing Day Sussex, Oxfordshire, Suffolk, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire, those parts of Essex not yet in Tier 4, Waverley in Surrey and Hampshire including Portsmouth and Southampton but with the exception of the New Forest will all be escalated to Tier 4. Bristol, Gloucestershire, Somerset including the North Somerset council area, Swindon, the Isle of Wight, the New Forest and Northamptonshire as well as Chesire and Warrington will all be escalated to Tier 3. DON'T MISS:
Dover chaos: Frustrated lorry drivers clash with border police [VIDEO]
French truckers slam Emmanuel Macron for port delays 'Brexit revenge' [ANALYSIS]
Emmanuel Macron proved he is no friend to Britain as chaos hit border [REACTION]
Coronavirus cases have been on the rise across most areas in the UK


thedailyexpress--2020-12-23--Brexit deal within grasp! UK and EU 'in the end phase' as Barnier and Frost near agreement

Diplomats and officials hinted the EU and UK are now haggling over the final compromises .
One EU official said : “ We are in the end phase now.
” UK Brexit envoy Lord Frost and the EU ’ s Stephanie Riso , a key aide to Ursula von der Leyen , are said to be currently working together in a bid to strike a deal .
One EU diplomat told Express.co.uk this could mean an announcement is made by “ tonight ” .
UK sources have not ruled out that a deal can be reached by this evening .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ be closing in on a fishing agreement after the intervention of Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Commission President Ursual von der Leyen .
EU ambassadors have been told to prepare for a special meeting to start the ratification process .
Diplomats are already going through some of the 2,000 pages already agreed by EU and UK negotiators .
Mrs von der Leyen and Mr Johnson have been in constant contact over the last 72 hours in an attempt to hammer out a compromise .
The EU boss was said to be so keen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lobbying hardline EU coastal states to back concessions .
The two sides have been butting heads over fishing quotas and access to UK waters in recent days .
Yesterday 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 .
He kicked the issue upstairs to Mr Johnson and Mrs von der Leyen to find a political @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rate : GBP Sterling in biggest rise in a month

Brexit: Lord Adonis grilled by host over calls for extension
Diplomats and officials hinted the EU and UK are now haggling over the final compromises. One EU official said: “We are in the end phase now.” UK Brexit envoy Lord Frost and the EU’s Stephanie Riso, a key aide to Ursula von der Leyen, are said to be currently working together in a bid to strike a deal.
Trending
One EU diplomat told Express.co.uk this could mean an announcement is made by “tonight”. UK sources have not ruled out that a deal can be reached by this evening. The EU and UK are understood to be closing in on a fishing agreement after the intervention of Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Commission President Ursual von der Leyen.
A Brexit deal could be struck tonight as talks enter 'end phase'
EU ambassadors have been told to prepare for a special meeting to start the ratification process. Diplomats are already going through some of the 2,000 pages already agreed by EU and UK negotiators. Mrs von der Leyen and Mr Johnson have been in constant contact over the last 72 hours in an attempt to hammer out a compromise. The EU boss was said to be so keen to strike a deal she has been lobbying hardline EU coastal states to back concessions.
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Brexit: What happens once the deal is confirmed
The two sides have been butting heads over fishing quotas and access to UK waters in recent days. Yesterday 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. He kicked the issue upstairs to Mr Johnson and Mrs von der Leyen to find a political compromise MUST READ: Pound to euro rate: GBP Sterling in biggest rise in a month


thedailyexpress--2020-12-24--EU SHAME MACRON: 'Deplorable' France attacked by Brussels for shutting border to UK

But now , the European Commissioner for Transport has lashed out at Emmanuel Macron ’ s decision to close the borders and interrupting the supply chain .
Adina Valean tweeted : “ Around 10,000 truck drivers are seeking to get back in the EU .
“ Other thousands are already in the Dover area in their vehicles .
“ We worked hard these days to unblock a crisis between two European countries , France and the UK .
“ We issued a communication appalling for proportional , non-discriminatory measures and the lift of any restrictions for transport workers .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we have trucks slowly crossing the Channel , and I want to thank UK authorities that they started testing the drivers at a capacity of 300 tests per hour .
“ I deplore that France went against our recommendations and brought us back to the situation we were in in March when the supply chains were interrupted .
“ I hope that the Member States respond quickly to our request to relax the driving and rest times rules and , specifically , not to apply holiday driving bans , to allow drivers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Christmas.
” READ MORE : Heartbreak as lorry drivers stuck in Kent to miss family Christmas Reports say the French President reluctantly reopened the borders after Brussels waded in to call for an end to the chaos .
But despite being reopened , Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick has admitted it will take a “ few days ” to clear the backlog in Kent .
Mr Jenrick said : “ I hope that this morning , you ’ ll see people and HGVs crossing the Channel at the short straits .
DO N'T MISS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chaos erupts [ REVEAL ] Nigel Farage lets rip at 'arrogant ' Macron ally after swipe at Britain [ COMMENT ] Covid strain emerged in Kent - experts do n't know if vaccine will work [ INSIGHT ] “ So the armed forces will be doing in the first instance to help us to set that up and to get through some of the backlog that you ’ ve seen.
” Mr Macron ’ s move to close the borders came at a highly sensitive time as both the UK and EU scramble @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end of the transition period in just seven days .
Dover MP Natalie Elphicke lashed out at the French President saying his decision was “ irresponsible ” .
She told Sky News on Wednesday : `` This situation we have now is simply a result of France unilateral and irresponsible action to close the border at basically no notice .

Dover: Lorry drivers seen confronting border police
Operation Stack was imposed and thousands of lorry drivers carrying fresh produce still remain stuck at Dover as the first ferry carrying passengers set sail this morning. Drivers now require a negative Covid test result before travelling to the continent.
Trending
But now, the European Commissioner for Transport has lashed out at Emmanuel Macron’s decision to close the borders and interrupting the supply chain. Adina Valean tweeted: “Around 10,000 truck drivers are seeking to get back in the EU. “Other thousands are already in the Dover area in their vehicles. “We worked hard these days to unblock a crisis between two European countries, France and the UK.
French President Emmanuel Macron
France closed its borders with the UK
“We issued a communication appalling for proportional, non-discriminatory measures and the lift of any restrictions for transport workers. “I am pleased that at this moment, we have trucks slowly crossing the Channel, and I want to thank UK authorities that they started testing the drivers at a capacity of 300 tests per hour. “I deplore that France went against our recommendations and brought us back to the situation we were in in March when the supply chains were interrupted. “I hope that the Member States respond quickly to our request to relax the driving and rest times rules and, specifically, not to apply holiday driving bans, to allow drivers to get back to their families for Christmas.” READ MORE: Heartbreak as lorry drivers stuck in Kent to miss family Christmas
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First ferries leave Dover port today
European Commissioner of Transport 'deplores' France's actions
“So the armed forces will be doing in the first instance to help us to set that up and to get through some of the backlog that you’ve seen.” Mr Macron’s move to close the borders came at a highly sensitive time as both the UK and EU scramble to secure a trade deal before the end of the transition period in just seven days. Dover MP Natalie Elphicke lashed out at the French President saying his decision was “irresponsible”. She told Sky News on Wednesday: "This situation we have now is simply a result of France unilateral and irresponsible action to close the border at basically no notice.
Tensions erupt at the Port of Dover


thedailyexpress--2020-12-24--'Why are you NOT depressed?' BBC radio host bluntly challenges pro-Brexit callers

With Brexit negotiations continuing amid widespread expectation an agreement is imminent , BBC Radio 5 Live host Clare McDonnell took calls on Thursday morning to gauge reactions from business owners across the country .
The BBC host was accused of `` letting anti-Brexit callers say whatever they want '' .
Andrew , one of the anti-Brexit callers , told the BBC host he was `` depressed '' at the idea the UK was leaving the EU .
He said : `` I 'm pretty depressed about it but I think surely something will get sorted out .
`` But I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ career building my business exporting to these markets and suddenly it just gets taken away for no reason relevant to what I 'm doing . ''
The BBC host replied : `` Andrew , I want to say Happy Christmas Eve regardless of all of that and I hope that for yours and your business ' sake and other people in your industry who are listening , some resolution is reached and it will be sorted out . ''
But moving on to her next caller , she added : `` Oh dear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Let 's talk to Annette .
Morning to you Annette , from Cheshire .
READ MORE : Brexit deal vote timeline : What happens now ?

Brexit: Radio host asks caller if she ‘feels depressed’
With Brexit negotiations continuing amid widespread expectation an agreement is imminent, BBC Radio 5 Live host Clare McDonnell took calls on Thursday morning to gauge reactions from business owners across the country. The BBC host was accused of "letting anti-Brexit callers say whatever they want". Andrew, one of the anti-Brexit callers, told the BBC host he was "depressed" at the idea the UK was leaving the EU.
Trending
He said: "I'm pretty depressed about it but I think surely something will get sorted out. "But I spent the last 20 years of my career building my business exporting to these markets and suddenly it just gets taken away for no reason relevant to what I'm doing." The BBC host replied: "Andrew, I want to say Happy Christmas Eve regardless of all of that and I hope that for yours and your business' sake and other people in your industry who are listening, some resolution is reached and it will be sorted out." But moving on to her next caller, she added: "Oh dear, he says he feels quite depressed. "Let's talk to Annette. Morning to you Annette, from Cheshire. READ MORE: Brexit deal vote timeline: What happens now?
BBC bias: Clare McDonnell was criticised for favouring anti-Brexit callers
BBC bias: The BBC host asked a caller why she was happy about Brexit
"Are you feeling depressed on this potential Brexit day?" Annette replied: "No I feel quite happy actually." Seemingly stunned and sounding almost disappointed by the answer, Ms McDonnell said: "Why? What do you do Annette?" "I'm a lorry driver," replied the caller. "I believe hopefully this deal will come up, we don't know exactly what is going to happen."
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Brexit: Details of deal set to be announced on Christmas Eve
Brexit deal: Boris Johnson is expected to make an announcement soon


thedailyexpress--2020-12-24--Laura Kuenssberg hints at Brexit deal problems - BBC editor says all may not be as seems

EU and UK negotiating teams were due to wrap up the talks last night to give Brussels and London a chance to debate and vote on the proposals behind a Brexit deal .
Word quickly spread this morning that a joint statement would be made by Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen at 8am this morning .
However , that `` imminent '' announcement has been continually pushed back .
And now BBC political editor Laura Kuenssberg has hinted we should not expect a statement any time soon .
Ms Kuenssberg said : “ Brexit watchers - you 'll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ morning may slip a bit .
“ At the risk of disappointing people , officials who know about fish quotas are still working on spreadsheets about fish quotas in Brussels.
” Giving a glimpse into her prediction for when a deal is done she joked : “ Kung Fu Panda 3 has just started on BBC One and it does n't seem likely we 'll have to press pause for a deal announcement.
” The political expert had earlier spoken about the intricacies of the fishing part of the deal .
As she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ announcement yesterday , she said : “ Negotiators are still talking ( apparently about specific quotas for specific species of fish ) but the UK Cabinet is about to gather on a conference call - that would n't happen if No 10 was n't by now very confident that deal is shortly to be finalised for real.
” Parliament is due to be recalled after Christmas to debate the 2,000 page Brexit document which will see a bill rushed through before the end of the year .
MEPs at the European Parliament will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Political correspondents on both sides of the Channel were poised for the announcement last night before a delivery of pizzas to negotiators gave the impression talks would rumble on through midnight .
It was not until after the clock struck 12 word began to spread no conclusion would happen until the morning .
A 7am call between Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen was supposed to signal the end of talks and was due to be followed by the joint press conference an hour later .
However , after the call @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were delays .
Fears are now growing a deal might not be concluded today but may run in to Christmas Day , meaning a race against time to ratify the deal .

Brexit: Labour criticism labelled ‘misleading’ by Kuenssberg
EU and UK negotiating teams were due to wrap up the talks last night to give Brussels and London a chance to debate and vote on the proposals behind a Brexit deal. Word quickly spread this morning that a joint statement would be made by Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen at 8am this morning.
However, that "imminent" announcement has been continually pushed back. And now BBC political editor Laura Kuenssberg has hinted we should not expect a statement any time soon. Ms Kuenssberg said: “Brexit watchers - you'll be shocked to know the timings this morning may slip a bit. “At the risk of disappointing people, officials who know about fish quotas are still working on spreadsheets about fish quotas in Brussels.”
Laura Kuenssberg has said not to expect a Brexit deal imminently
Giving a glimpse into her prediction for when a deal is done she joked: “Kung Fu Panda 3 has just started on BBC One and it doesn't seem likely we'll have to press pause for a deal announcement.” The political expert had earlier spoken about the intricacies of the fishing part of the deal. As she made a late night prediction about an announcement yesterday, she said: “Negotiators are still talking (apparently about specific quotas for specific species of fish) but the UK Cabinet is about to gather on a conference call - that wouldn't happen if No 10 wasn't by now very confident that deal is shortly to be finalised for real.”
Boris Johnson was due to make a statement at 8am today
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Parliament is due to be recalled after Christmas to debate the 2,000 page Brexit document which will see a bill rushed through before the end of the year. MEPs at the European Parliament will also be scrutinising the monster exit doc. Political correspondents on both sides of the Channel were poised for the announcement last night before a delivery of pizzas to negotiators gave the impression talks would rumble on through midnight.
Brexit: Radio host asks caller if she ‘feels depressed’