thedailyexpress--2020-05-28--Brexit alert: Polling guru Curtice sends Boris warning - 'Brexiteers WON'T accept this!'

And he suggested any perception Mr Johnson was mishandling the Dominic Cummings situation was likely to undermine his authority in other areas .
With the third round of talks aimed at thrashing out a post-Brexit trade deal due to begin in Brussels next week , the restrictions put in place as a result of social distancing requirements have added an extra complication .
In a reply to opposition MPs , the EU 's chief negotiator Michel Barnier stressed he `` remained open '' to the idea of a two-year extension in a clear indication the bloc is in no hurry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ December 31 .
However Sir John , Professor of Politics at the University of Strathclyde , told Express.co.uk Mr Johnson 's supporters would take a dim view of any further delay .
He said : `` This is an area where at the moment at least the Government is on stronger ground .
`` It is true that a majority of people want the transition to be extended .
`` It is true that if you ask people the question 'Should we extend the transition because of coronavirus ' , it depends on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being split .
`` On the other hand , if you simply ask people 'Should we extend ' without referring back to coronavirus etc , then the polling tends to suggest that a clear majority of Leave voters and Conservative voters think we should not extend .
READ MORE : Brexit POLL : Which UK figure has been most important in crunch talks ?
`` They are not quite as firm in that view as Remain voters are that we should extend but Remain voters would say that anyway .
`` So actually @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Government to delay the transition period .
`` It 's not what the public in general thinks - it 's what Leave voters and Tories think . ''
READ MORE Boris Johnson stands by under fire aide Dominic Cummings [ INSIGHT ] How Dominic Cummings was saved by the government using THESE defences [ EXPLAINER ] Piers Morgan blasts Boris Johnson after defending Dominic Cummings [ VIDEO ] Sir John also suggested the Prime Minister 's handling of the controversy surround chief adviser Dominic Cummings ' 260-mile trip to Durham at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opinion .
He explained : `` This is where the calculation kicks in .
`` If Leave voters have begun to doubt the Prime Minister on Cummings , is there a risk that will undermine their evaluation of the Government on Brexit ?
`` The numbers have turned a little bit more negative but not enough to make any headlines .
`` The risk is if you lose your authority with a significant section of the Leave electorate then your ability to pursue your Brexit strategy could also be undermined .
`` Once @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there is a risk that they will doubt you on others . ''

Jeremy Vine caller rants about the possibility of delaying Brexit
And he suggested any perception Mr Johnson was mishandling the Dominic Cummings situation was likely to undermine his authority in other areas. With the third round of talks aimed at thrashing out a post-Brexit trade deal due to begin in Brussels next week, the restrictions put in place as a result of social distancing requirements have added an extra complication.
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In a reply to opposition MPs, the EU's chief negotiator Michel Barnier stressed he "remained open" to the idea of a two-year extension in a clear indication the bloc is in no hurry to get things wrapped up prior to December 31. However Sir John, Professor of Politics at the University of Strathclyde, told Express.co.uk Mr Johnson's supporters would take a dim view of any further delay. He said: "This is an area where at the moment at least the Government is on stronger ground. Back Express.co.uk's NHS Heroes campaign
Boris Johnson has been warned Leave voters and Tories will not accept a further delay
"It is true that a majority of people want the transition to be extended. "It is true that if you ask people the question 'Should we extend the transition because of coronavirus', it depends on the poll but Leave voters end up being split. "On the other hand, if you simply ask people 'Should we extend' without referring back to coronavirus etc, then the polling tends to suggest that a clear majority of Leave voters and Conservative voters think we should not extend. READ MORE: Brexit POLL: Which UK figure has been most important in crunch talks?
Boris Johnson with his famous election campaign slogan
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Leave supporters demonstrate in Westminster last year
Sir John Curtice is one of Britain's most respected political analysts
Dominic Cummings, pictured leaving his home today
Sir John also suggested the Prime Minister's handling of the controversy surround chief adviser Dominic Cummings' 260-mile trip to Durham at the height of the lockdown would shape public opinion. He explained: "This is where the calculation kicks in. "If Leave voters have begun to doubt the Prime Minister on Cummings, is there a risk that will undermine their evaluation of the Government on Brexit?
Brexit timeline
"The numbers have turned a little bit more negative but not enough to make any headlines. "The risk is if you lose your authority with a significant section of the Leave electorate then your ability to pursue your Brexit strategy could also be undermined. "Once they doubt you on one issue, there is a risk that they will doubt you on others."
Brexit was delayed twice, with last year's October 31 deadline missed


thedailyexpress--2020-05-28--We’re out! Britain rejects EU offer of two-year Brexit extension

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But British counterpart David Frost insisted the deadline remains because the country needs political and economic freedom and does not want to pay huge amounts into EU coffers .
Mr Frost said it is the `` firm policy of the Government that we will not extend '' the transition period and `` we would not agree to it '' if asked .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a lot of emphasis on economic and political freedom at the end of this year and on avoiding ongoing significant payments into the EU budget .
Send in the big guns !
Boris to fly to Brussels for Brexit talks '' And , of course , those things are accomplished by ending the transition period at the end of the year . ''
Under the terms of withdrawal from the EU , Britain only has until July 1 to decide whether to extend the transition period .
Mr Barnier had repeated the bloc @ @ @ @ @ @ @ letter to leaders of smaller parties in Westminster , including the SNP , Lib Dems and Plaid Cymru after they contacted him about the talks .
He said : `` Such an extension of up to one or two years can be agreed jointly by the two parties .
The EU has always said we remain open on this . ''
The Brexit transition began when the UK legally left the EU on January 31 and will conclude at the end of the year .

Brexit: David Frost insists UK ‘will not extend transition period’
But British counterpart David Frost insisted the deadline remains because the country needs political and economic freedom and does not want to pay huge amounts into EU coffers. Mr Frost said it is the "firm policy of the Government that we will not extend" the transition period and "we would not agree to it" if asked. He added: "We have always put a lot of emphasis on economic and political freedom at the end of this year and on avoiding ongoing significant payments into the EU budget.
"And, of course, those things are accomplished by ending the transition period at the end of the year." Under the terms of withdrawal from the EU, Britain only has until July 1 to decide whether to extend the transition period. Mr Barnier had repeated the bloc's openness to an extension in a letter to leaders of smaller parties in Westminster, including the SNP, Lib Dems and Plaid Cymru after they contacted him about the talks. He said: "Such an extension of up to one or two years can be agreed jointly by the two parties. The EU has always said we remain open on this." The Brexit transition began when the UK legally left the EU on January 31 and will conclude at the end of the year.
We have left the European Union
The UK left the EU on January 31, 2020
PM Boris Johnson will meet EU leaders next month when it had been hoped the outline of an agreement could be agreed. But Mr Frost said there is a long way between the UK and the bloc on reaching a trade deal and urged Brussels to make proper compromises. He told MPs the UK believes the EU's approach "in key areas is not a mandate that is likely to produce an agreement". He added: "If you're asking do we think the EU needs to evolve its position to reach an agreement? Yes, we do." The EU's demand for fishing rights to remain the same as they are now is a major stumbling block.
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The UK negotiator David Frost


thedailyexpress--2020-05-28--Boris Johnson approval rating: How has Dominic Cummings saga affected the PM?

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is a widely recognised figure and the coronavirus outbreak had improved his popularity with the public .
In March , a YouGov survey found 55 percent of respondents had favourable opinions of the PM .
But how has his popularity been affected by the Dominic Cummings row ?
What is the Dominic Cummings row ?
Mr Johnson ’ s chief aide Dominic Cummings stands accused of flouting lockdown rules after he drove 260 miles in March .
This week he gave a full statement of his travels during lockdown and said he had acted “ reasonably @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on his parents ’ farm .
But since the news surfaced , Mr Cummings has faced calls to resign from those who believe he broke the rules of lockdown .
Mr Johnson ’ s approval rating has dropped 20 points as the Dominic Cummings story continues to dominate the media .
The Government has generally seen approval for its handling of the crisis , but now approval ratings have drastically fallen .
The government ’ s approval rating is now at -2 percent , dropping 16 points in just one day .
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at 2 percent , having slightly risen since it dropped 20 points to -1 percent on Tuesday .
The decline came after Mr Johnson backed Mr Cummings , claiming he followed the “ instincts of a father ” .
The PM has refused to fire his chief aide despite calls from key figures , Tory MPs and members of the public to do so .
The Prime Minister said Mr Cummings had acted `` responsibly , legally , and with integrity , and with the overall aim of stopping the spread of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Savanta poll has recorded Mr Johnson ’ s approval has dropped significantly amid the ongoing row .
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[ INSIGHT ] Boris loses control : PM faces SECOND rebellion as MPs lash out [ EXPLAINER ] Boris Johnson to face 'major test ' over Brexit fisheries deal [ ANALYSIS ] The Savanta poll also demonstrated how Mr Johnson ’ s approval had fallen below that of Health Secretary Matt Hancock at five percent .
The Chancellor of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fall from 35 percent last week to 20 percent on Tuesday .
Mr Sunak ’ s approval rating has increased to 30 percent as of May 27 .
The least popular member of Government is the Chancellor of the Duchy Michael Gove whose approval rating is currently at -8 percent .
The PM ’ s opposition Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has seen his approval ratings rise recently , with a rating of 14 percent as of May 27 .
The daily tracker has more than 1,000 UK respondents each day and covers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , home and work , out of home and retail , news sources and approval ratings .
The Savanta poll showed the level of worry in the UK is at 35 percent , which is the lowest since tracking in this area began .
The impact of COVID-19 on disposable income has been stable since tracking began , with roughly equal proportions saying that their disposable income has not been affected , as those who say it has decreased .
The UK government ’ s daily coronavirus briefing has proved popular with around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it live .

Boris Johnson: Test and trace ‘will change’ people’s lives
Prime Minister Boris Johnson is a widely recognised figure and the coronavirus outbreak had improved his popularity with the public. In March, a YouGov survey found 55 percent of respondents had favourable opinions of the PM. But how has his popularity been affected by the Dominic Cummings row?
Trending
What is the Dominic Cummings row? Mr Johnson’s chief aide Dominic Cummings stands accused of flouting lockdown rules after he drove 260 miles in March. This week he gave a full statement of his travels during lockdown and said he had acted “reasonably and legally” in going to stay on his parents’ farm. But since the news surfaced, Mr Cummings has faced calls to resign from those who believe he broke the rules of lockdown. READ MORE: Cummings backed: Boris flatly rejects calls for inquiry
Boris Johnson approval rating: How has the PM's approval rating been impacted by Dominic Cummings?
Boris Johnson approval rating: Mr Cummings has been criticised for undertaking a 260 mile trip during lockdown
READ MORE Labour backlash: Jon Ashworth accused of 'political point-scoring' Mr Johnson’s approval rating has dropped 20 points as the Dominic Cummings story continues to dominate the media. The Government has generally seen approval for its handling of the crisis, but now approval ratings have drastically fallen. The government’s approval rating is now at -2 percent, dropping 16 points in just one day. Mr Johnson’s own approval is now at 2 percent, having slightly risen since it dropped 20 points to -1 percent on Tuesday.
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Boris Johnson approval rating: Mr Johnson's approval rating is now at two percent
The decline came after Mr Johnson backed Mr Cummings, claiming he followed the “instincts of a father”. The PM has refused to fire his chief aide despite calls from key figures, Tory MPs and members of the public to do so. The Prime Minister said Mr Cummings had acted "responsibly, legally, and with integrity, and with the overall aim of stopping the spread of the virus and saving lives". But the Savanta poll has recorded Mr Johnson’s approval has dropped significantly amid the ongoing row. DON'T MISS
Schools open: What is SAGE's advice on schools reopening? [INSIGHT]
Boris loses control: PM faces SECOND rebellion as MPs lash out [EXPLAINER]
Boris Johnson to face 'major test' over Brexit fisheries deal [ANALYSIS]
READ MORE Test & trace rollout begins TODAY: Boris hails ‘world-beating’ scheme The Savanta poll also demonstrated how Mr Johnson’s approval had fallen below that of Health Secretary Matt Hancock at five percent. The Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak also saw a large fall from 35 percent last week to 20 percent on Tuesday. Mr Sunak’s approval rating has increased to 30 percent as of May 27. The least popular member of Government is the Chancellor of the Duchy Michael Gove whose approval rating is currently at -8 percent. The PM’s opposition Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has seen his approval ratings rise recently, with a rating of 14 percent as of May 27.
Boris Johnson approval rating: The PM has ruled out launching an inquiry
The daily tracker has more than 1,000 UK respondents each day and covers five key areas: concern and impact, home and work, out of home and retail, news sources and approval ratings. The Savanta poll showed the level of worry in the UK is at 35 percent, which is the lowest since tracking in this area began. The impact of COVID-19 on disposable income has been stable since tracking began, with roughly equal proportions saying that their disposable income has not been affected, as those who say it has decreased. The UK government’s daily coronavirus briefing has proved popular with around three in 10 saying that they watch it live.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-28--Brexit deal: Could the UK be facing no deal? Time running out for Barnier

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Despite the ongoing effects of coronavirus , Brexit talks are pressing ahead , albeit with little progress being made as the UK and EU reach loggerheads .
The process of negotiating the UK 's way out of the EU is far from over despite the fact the country left the bloc on January 31 this year , when coronavirus was first emerging in Europe .
January 31 marked the beginning of the 'transition period ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK is still in the single market , and must still uphold the rights of UK and EU citizens under agreements such as freedom of movement .
The main objective for UK negotiators is to 'take back control ' , and Boris Johnson has refused to make any concessions in agreements and still wants a `` great relationship with our friends . ''
UK and EU negotiators have remained in talks throughout the coronavirus crisis , but they are still struggling to agree on key issues , with reports that the EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the UK 's approach .
After the third round of talks in recent weeks , the UK 's chief Brexit negotiator David Frost said : “ I regret however that we made very little progress towards agreement on the most significant outstanding issues between us .

Brexit: Steve Double slams EU’s ‘unfair’ fishing quotas
Despite the ongoing effects of coronavirus, Brexit talks are pressing ahead, albeit with little progress being made as the UK and EU reach loggerheads. The process of negotiating the UK's way out of the EU is far from over despite the fact the country left the bloc on January 31 this year, when coronavirus was first emerging in Europe.
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January 31 marked the beginning of the 'transition period' for the UK leaving the EU - the UK is still in the single market, and must still uphold the rights of UK and EU citizens under agreements such as freedom of movement. The main objective for UK negotiators is to 'take back control', and Boris Johnson has refused to make any concessions in agreements and still wants a "great relationship with our friends." UK and EU negotiators have remained in talks throughout the coronavirus crisis, but they are still struggling to agree on key issues, with reports that the EU's Chief Negotiator Michel Barnier is exasperated with the UK's approach. After the third round of talks in recent weeks, the UK's chief Brexit negotiator David Frost said: “I regret however that we made very little progress towards agreement on the most significant outstanding issues between us.
Brexit talks: Talks have been delayed due to coronavirus
Brexit talks: Talks were interrupted by coronavirus and forced to happen online
READ MORE Brexit row explodes as Frost ridicules EU over Common Fisheries policy “It is very clear that a standard Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement, with other key agreements on issues like law enforcement, civil nuclear, and aviation alongside, all in line with the Political Declaration, could be agreed without major difficulties in the time available. "Both sides have tabled full legal texts, there are plenty of precedents, and there is clearly a good understanding between negotiators. “The major obstacle to this is the EU’s insistence on including a set of novel and unbalanced proposals on the so-called 'level playing field' which would bind this country to EU law or standards, or determine our domestic legal regimes, in a way that is unprecedented in Free Trade Agreements and not envisaged in the Political Declaration. "As soon as the EU recognises that we will not conclude an agreement on that basis, we will be able to make progress." The EU believes if the UK gets access to unprecedented, privileged access to special trade agreements, it could undermine other member states.
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Brexit talks: New talks will begin on June 1
On the UK side, 'take back control' is still the most prevalent message running through the ordeal, and making concessions to the EU could undermine the reason why Britain embarked on this journey after all. Will there be a no deal Brexit? With coronavirus going on, the news and Government agenda has been turned away from Brexit. Governments of all countries have been pumping money and resources into fighting the crisis - and Europe has seen some of the highest death tolls in the world. DON'T MISS
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READ MORE Brexit transition WILL end this year: Frost lays down law over Barnier More key talks will begin next week and the risk that the two sides may not reach an agreement before December is beginning to look more likely. Mr Barnier and Mr Frost exchanged frosty letters last week, where but the TV host said the EU was treating the UK as an unworthy partner and it was not offering the same deals to the UK as it has to countries such as Canada and Japan. Barnier responded by saying the exchange of letters was not the finest way to discuss what talks should be achieving. The testy exchange has now led to a senior EU official saying there is a risk of stalemate if the EU did not see progress on its vital interests, including how to ensure fair competition, or a level playing field, between British and EU companies under a free-trade deal.
Brexit talks: No deal is looking more likely as officials refuse to budge
In terms of timetable, the process is already late running and the UK is not budging on the timetable, much to the frustration of the EU. The UK still has time to ask for an extension to the transition period until July 1, however, the UK has maintained the position that this will absolutely not happen. Last week the UK issued its 'legal text', which outlines what the UK's goals are in all areas of discussion. Mr Frost said: “We very much need a change in EU approach for the next Round beginning on 1 June.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-28--Dominic Cummings petition: Petition to sack Mr Cummings reaches 898,000 – will he quit?

Dominic Cummings is at the centre of a national row regarding an alleged breach of coronavirus lockdown rules in March .
The PM ’ s chief aide has been accused of driving from London to Durham at the height of lockdown restrictions in breach of lockdown rules .
But how many believe Mr Cummings should resign and will he quit ?
Dominic Cummmings is Boris Johnson ’ s closest political adviser working in the upper reaches of the Government and Conservative Party for almost 20 years .
Mr Cummings was seen leaving Downing Street on March 27 and three days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus symptoms .
But despite the UK being on lockdown , it is claimed Mr Cummings travelled 260 miles from London to Durham between March 27 and 31 .
Police in Durham were `` made aware of reports that an individual had travelled from London to Durham and was present at an address in the city '' on March 31 .
Officers then `` made contact with the owners of that address '' .
Mr Cummings claimed and his wife made the trip in order to organise childcare support after the pair displayed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mirror and The Observer , Mr Cummings then visited Barnard Castle , located 30 miles from his parents ’ home in Durham .
Members of the public also claimed to have seen him in the county after he had returned to London in mid-April .
Speaking to reporters at Downing Street on Monday Mr Cummings said he believed he had acted `` reasonably '' and legally when he drove 260 miles from home in March .
Mr Johnson faced a backlash on Sunday for his failure to sack Mr Cummings .
Speaking from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I want to begin by answering the big question that people have been asking in the last 48 hours .
“ And that is – is this Government asking you - the people , the public , to do one thing while senior people here in government do something else ?
“ Have we been asking you to make sacrifices , to obey social distancing , to stay at home while some people have been basically flouting those rules and endangering lives ?
“ And it is because I take this matter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ serious that I can tell you today I have had extensive face to face conversations with Dominic Cummings and I have concluded that in travelling to find the right kind of childcare , at the moment when both he and his wife were about to be incapacitated by coronavirus .
“ And when he had no alternative , I think he followed the instincts of every father and every parent .
And I do not mark him down for that .
And though there have been many other allegations about what happened when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some of them palpably false .
“ I believe that in every respect he has acted responsibly , and legally , and with integrity , and with the overwhelming aim of stopping the spread of the virus and saving lives .
“ And I stress this fundamental aim because it is thanks to this country ’ s collective resolve in achieving that aim that we continue to make progress.
” On Monday in a bid to divert attention from the row over Mr Cummings , the PM announced that thousands of high street @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across England could open next month once they are COVID-19 safe .
DO N'T MISS Boris Johnson stands by under fire aide Dominic Cummings [ INSIGHT ] How Dominic Cummings was saved by the government using THESE defences [ EXPLAINER ] Piers Morgan blasts Boris Johnson after defending Dominic Cummings [ VIDEO ] So far , at least 30 Tory MPs including Steve Baker , Tim Loughton and Caroline Nokes , have called for Mr Cummings ’ s resignation .
Former minister Paul Maynard said : `` It is a classic case of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I do ' - and it is not as if he was unfamiliar with the guidance he himself helped draw up .
`` It seems to me to be utterly indefensible and his position wholly untenable . ''
Senior Church of England bishops and a scientist advising the Government on the pandemic have also criticised the Government ’ s handling of the row .
A frontline cardiology registrar has vowed to resign if the PM ’ s chief adviser does not resign by the end of the week .
As of 7am , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have signed this online petition calling for Mr Cummings ’ s resignation .
Writing on the petition , one person wrote : “ Thousands of grieving families are not allowed to see hospitalised loved ones before they pass - NO ONE is excused for flouting the law .
Especially 10 Downing St !
” Another added : “ There 's no justification for travelling 250miles for family support , we all have to rely on local friends and online shops when isolating.
” One person wrote : “ It seems to be one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for those in Westminster .
What happened to lead by example , shocking.
” Bookmakers believe Mr Cummings will retain his current role until at least June 1 .
According to Betfair , Dominic Cummings is at 1/2 odds to keep his current job on June 1 , while he is at 6/4 odds to lose his position by that date .
Betfair 's Katie Baylis said : “ The controversy around Cummings ’ trip to his parents ’ house in Durham may be gathering steam , but his odds of exiting his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first thing this morning that he would be gone by the end of the month , to odds-on at 1/2 now that he will still be there .
“ While there have been calls for Cummings to resign or be sacked , we have seen the opposite when it comes to what punters believe will happen , but this story is sure to develop as the week , and even the day goes on , so we wouldn ’ t be surprised to see the odds fluctuate .
”

Boris Johnson slammed by Cooper for 'protecting' Cummings
Dominic Cummings is at the centre of a national row regarding an alleged breach of coronavirus lockdown rules in March. The PM’s chief aide has been accused of driving from London to Durham at the height of lockdown restrictions in breach of lockdown rules. But how many believe Mr Cummings should resign and will he quit?
Trending
Dominic Cummmings is Boris Johnson’s closest political adviser working in the upper reaches of the Government and Conservative Party for almost 20 years. Mr Cummings was seen leaving Downing Street on March 27 and three days later was confirmed to be self-isolating with coronavirus symptoms. But despite the UK being on lockdown, it is claimed Mr Cummings travelled 260 miles from London to Durham between March 27 and 31. Police in Durham were "made aware of reports that an individual had travelled from London to Durham and was present at an address in the city" on March 31. Officers then "made contact with the owners of that address". READ MORE: BBC viewers slam Gavin Williamson over Dominic Cummings probe
Dominic Cummings petition: Will Dominic Cummings quit amid row over breaching lockdown conditions?
Dominic Cummings petition: Dominic Cummings is accused of travelling 260 miles breaking lockdown rules
READ MORE Piers Morgan fumes over 'disgraceful' replacement of Emily Maitlis Mr Cummings claimed and his wife made the trip in order to organise childcare support after the pair displayed COVID-19 symptoms. According to the Daily Mirror and The Observer, Mr Cummings then visited Barnard Castle, located 30 miles from his parents’ home in Durham. Members of the public also claimed to have seen him in the county after he had returned to London in mid-April. Speaking to reporters at Downing Street on Monday Mr Cummings said he believed he had acted "reasonably" and legally when he drove 260 miles from home in March.
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Dominic Cummings petition: Downing Street revealed Mr Cummings was exhibiting symptoms of the virus at the end of March
Dominic Cummings petition: Mr Cummings speaking from Downing Street on Monday
Mr Johnson faced a backlash on Sunday for his failure to sack Mr Cummings. Speaking from Downing Street, the PM said: “I want to begin by answering the big question that people have been asking in the last 48 hours. “And that is – is this Government asking you - the people, the public, to do one thing while senior people here in government do something else? “Have we been asking you to make sacrifices, to obey social distancing, to stay at home while some people have been basically flouting those rules and endangering lives? “And it is because I take this matter so seriously and frankly it is so serious that I can tell you today I have had extensive face to face conversations with Dominic Cummings and I have concluded that in travelling to find the right kind of childcare, at the moment when both he and his wife were about to be incapacitated by coronavirus. “And when he had no alternative, I think he followed the instincts of every father and every parent. And I do not mark him down for that. And though there have been many other allegations about what happened when he was in self-isolation and thereafter, some of them palpably false. “I believe that in every respect he has acted responsibly, and legally, and with integrity, and with the overwhelming aim of stopping the spread of the virus and saving lives. “And I stress this fundamental aim because it is thanks to this country’s collective resolve in achieving that aim that we continue to make progress.” On Monday in a bid to divert attention from the row over Mr Cummings, the PM announced that thousands of high street shops, department stores and shopping centres across England could open next month once they are COVID-19 safe. DON'T MISS
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READ MORE Chris Evans: Virgin Radio DJ makes 'vision' dig at Dominic Cummings So far, at least 30 Tory MPs including Steve Baker, Tim Loughton and Caroline Nokes, have called for Mr Cummings’s resignation. Former minister Paul Maynard said: "It is a classic case of 'do as I say, not as I do' - and it is not as if he was unfamiliar with the guidance he himself helped draw up. "It seems to me to be utterly indefensible and his position wholly untenable." Senior Church of England bishops and a scientist advising the Government on the pandemic have also criticised the Government’s handling of the row. A frontline cardiology registrar has vowed to resign if the PM’s chief adviser does not resign by the end of the week. On Thursday, Durham Police said Mr Cummings may have committed "a minor breach" of lockdown rules, but said he will face no further action. The police said the 26-mile trip from Durham to Barnard Castle to test his eyesight "might have been a minor breach of the regulations that would have warranted police intervention", but "there is no intention to take retrospective action".
Dominic Cummings petition: Mr Johnson supported Mr Cummings on Sunday saying he had 'acted responsibly'
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Dominic Cummings petition: Protesters have gathered outside Mr Cummings' home calling for his resignation
As of 7.15am on May 29, more than 977,000 members of the public have signed this online petition calling for Mr Cummings’s resignation. Writing on the petition, one person wrote: “Thousands of grieving families are not allowed to see hospitalised loved ones before they pass - NO ONE is excused for flouting the law. Especially 10 Downing St!” Another added: “There's no justification for travelling 250miles for family support, we all have to rely on local friends and online shops when isolating.” One person wrote: “It seems to be one rule for us common folk and another for those in Westminster. What happened to lead by example, shocking.”


thedailyexpress--2020-05-28--Britons FURIOUS as Remainer MPs attempt to derail Brexit with ‘Barnier bill’ forcing delay

Michel Barnier , the European Commission Head of Taskforce , gave Remainer ’ s a reason for hope on Wednesday after he outlined the bloc would be willing to extend post-Brexit talks for up to 24 months .
In a letter to Westminster leaders of the SNP , Lib Dems , Plaid Cymru , SDLP , Green Party and Alliance Party , Mr Barnier said the EU “ remain open ” to an extension until 2022 but warned this would come at a financial cost to the UK – the offer was swiftly rejected by Downing Street .
However it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bill has been posted on the UK Parliament website in an attempt to push through an extension .
The Remainer plot to frustrate Britain leaving the EU has prompted an angry response from Express.co.uk readers who let their feelings known on this websites Facebook page .
One user said : “ What a bunch of undemocratic chancers we are dealing with .
All those who supported this bill need exposing and shaming.
” A second reader said : “ Why don ’ t the remainers just shut up , they lost , get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Remainers existed before the 2016 election .
After leavers won the day , Remainers became losers .
Those that still claim to be Remainers are just bad losers in denial.
” A fourth said : “ A 2 year delay is the last thing we need right now.
” The Private Members Bill laid by Liberal Democrat co-leader Sir Ed Davey was presented to Parliament last Wednesday .
The bill states : `` A Bill to require Her Majesty 's Government to seek a two-year extension to the implementation period under Article @ @ @ @ @ @ @ repeal the prohibition on agreeing to such an extension under section 33 of the European Union ( Withdrawal Agreement ) Act 2000 , and for connected purposes . ''
The next stage for the Bill is scheduled to take place on June 12 .
In interview with LBC on Thursday morning , Sir Ed said it was `` high time for the Conservative Government to think again '' on an extension .
He said : “ The Prime Minister 's refusal now to even consider the possibility of an extension to the Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health and economic crisis shows he is recklessly putting his Brexit ideology before the UK 's national interest .
`` It 's clear that an extension is possible and it 's high time for the Conservative Government to think again.
” Britain officially left the European Union in January but remain in a transition period until December 31 in order to strike a trade agreement .
The UK and EU have until July to decide whether to extend talks beyond the year for up to 24 months .
Coronavirus symptoms : Four main @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ANALYSIS ] Pressure on Boris as Scottish independence support surges [ INSIGHT ] Ryanair : Michael O ’ Leary says quarantine will be ‘ dropped ’ in weeks [ VIDEO ] The Prime Minister has already knocked back any suggestion of a new timetable for talks and insisted the UK will honour the December 31 deadline .
Boris Johnson ’ s chief Brexit negotiator David Frost , said it was `` firm policy '' of the Government to honour the current timetable .
In front on the Commons Committee on the Future Relationship @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Frost also insisted there remains a `` big gap '' in negotiations regarding the EU ’ s insistence on a level playing field with the UK on trade rules and regulations .

Brexit: Barnier looked 'so angry' after trade talks reveals expert
Michel Barnier, the European Commission Head of Taskforce, gave Remainer’s a reason for hope on Wednesday after he outlined the bloc would be willing to extend post-Brexit talks for up to 24 months. In a letter to Westminster leaders of the SNP, Lib Dems, Plaid Cymru, SDLP, Green Party and Alliance Party, Mr Barnier said the EU “remain open” to an extension until 2022 but warned this would come at a financial cost to the UK – the offer was swiftly rejected by Downing Street.
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However it has since emerged a summary of a Bill has been posted on the UK Parliament website in an attempt to push through an extension. The Remainer plot to frustrate Britain leaving the EU has prompted an angry response from Express.co.uk readers who let their feelings known on this websites Facebook page. One user said: “What a bunch of undemocratic chancers we are dealing with. All those who supported this bill need exposing and shaming.”
Britons have reacted furiously to the prospect of a Brexit delay
David Frost and his counterpart Michel Barnier
A second reader said: “Why don’t the remainers just shut up, they lost, get over it” A third commented: “Remainers existed before the 2016 election. After leavers won the day, Remainers became losers. Those that still claim to be Remainers are just bad losers in denial.” A fourth said: “A 2 year delay is the last thing we need right now.” The Private Members Bill laid by Liberal Democrat co-leader Sir Ed Davey was presented to Parliament last Wednesday.
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David Frost has rejected calls for a delay to talks
The bill states: "A Bill to require Her Majesty's Government to seek a two-year extension to the implementation period under Article 132 of the Withdrawal Agreement; to repeal the prohibition on agreeing to such an extension under section 33 of the European Union (Withdrawal Agreement) Act 2000, and for connected purposes." The next stage for the Bill is scheduled to take place on June 12. In interview with LBC on Thursday morning, Sir Ed said it was "high time for the Conservative Government to think again" on an extension. READ MORE: Coronavirus map LIVE: UK hospital deaths jump 213 - total hits 30,376
Boris Johnson officially guided the UK out of the EU in January
He said: “The Prime Minister's refusal now to even consider the possibility of an extension to the Brexit transition as we face an unprecedented global health and economic crisis shows he is recklessly putting his Brexit ideology before the UK's national interest. "It's clear that an extension is possible and it's high time for the Conservative Government to think again.” Britain officially left the European Union in January but remain in a transition period until December 31 in order to strike a trade agreement. The UK and EU have until July to decide whether to extend talks beyond the year for up to 24 months. DON'T MISS Coronavirus symptoms: Four main risk factors linked to severe symptoms [ANALYSIS]
Pressure on Boris as Scottish independence support surges [INSIGHT]
Ryanair: Michael O’Leary says quarantine will be ‘dropped’ in weeks [VIDEO]
The Prime Minister has already knocked back any suggestion of a new timetable for talks and insisted the UK will honour the December 31 deadline. Boris Johnson’s chief Brexit negotiator David Frost, said it was "firm policy" of the Government to honour the current timetable. In front on the Commons Committee on the Future Relationship with the European Union on Wednesday, Mr Frost also insisted there remains a "big gap" in negotiations regarding the EU’s insistence on a level playing field with the UK on trade rules and regulations.
A timeline of Brexit until January 2021


thedailyexpress--2020-05-28--Pressure on Boris as Scottish independence support surges - but Sturgeon in lockdown chaos

A IPSOS MORI survey for BBC Scotland found that 63 per cent of people want another referendum , 34 percent within the next two years , 19 per cent in two to five years , and 10 percent after the next five years .
But more than a third ( 34 percent ) were against a fresh vote whilst young people were more likely to support a second referendum in the next two years , with 46 per cent backing a vote soon compared to 36 percent of those aged 35-54 and 22 per cent of those aged 55 and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amid chaos of Nicola Sturgeon deciding to lift lockdown two weeks later than the rest of the UK .
Police Scotland boss Iain Livingstone warned that the split in lockdown measures in England and Scotland could spark public chaos .
Speaking to BBC Radio 4 's Today programme , Mr Livingstone said that a two-speed approach either side of the border “ would undoubtedly make policing more challenging ” .
The First Minister has paused her party 's independence campaign while the Scottish Government focuses its attention on fighting the coronavirus pandemic .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scotland should be offered another say on independence in the wake of the Brexit referendum which saw the UK vote in favour of leaving the EU .
The survey also asked people 's views on Brexit with two thirds of the Scottish public ( 66 percent ) believing the Brexit transition period should be extended for up to two years to allow more time for trade negotiations .
Meanwhile , almost a third ( 30 percent ) feel the transition period should end on December 31 as planned .
Emily Gray , managing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` The indication is that Scots ' attitudes are shifting during the coronavirus outbreak , and those campaigning on both sides of the independence debate in Scotland will be watching public opinion very closely over the coming weeks and months . ''
READ MORE : Nicola Sturgeon squirms as she is grilled on 'devastating ' COVID-19 Ipsos MORI interviewed 1,006 Scottish adults by telephone between May 14 and 20 .
Responding to the poll , an SNP spokesman said : `` This poll shows clear and growing majority support for an independence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ referendum has been paused given the urgent priority of tackling the coronavirus pandemic .
“ But ultimately Scotland 's future must and will be decided by the people who live here - not by Boris Johnson . ''
DO N'T MISS Boris Johnson should ‘ walk away ’ from negotiations if EU demand waters [ OPINION ] Remainers ' hopes dashed !
Desperate plot to thwart Brexit doomed [ OPINION ] Priti Patel ’ s cryptic snub of David Cameron exposed [ REVEAL ]

Nicola Sturgeon announces easing of lockdown measures
A IPSOS MORI survey for BBC Scotland found that 63 per cent of people want another referendum, 34 percent within the next two years, 19 per cent in two to five years, and 10 percent after the next five years. But more than a third (34 percent) were against a fresh vote whilst young people were more likely to support a second referendum in the next two years, with 46 per cent backing a vote soon compared to 36 percent of those aged 35-54 and 22 per cent of those aged 55 and over.
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However, the survey comes amid chaos of Nicola Sturgeon deciding to lift lockdown two weeks later than the rest of the UK. Police Scotland boss Iain Livingstone warned that the split in lockdown measures in England and Scotland could spark public chaos. Speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Mr Livingstone said that a two-speed approach either side of the border “would undoubtedly make policing more challenging”. The First Minister has paused her party's independence campaign while the Scottish Government focuses its attention on fighting the coronavirus pandemic.
Support for Scottish independence is growing.
The pressure is growing on Boris Johnson to grant a second vote.
But Ms Sturgeon has repeatedly said that Scotland should be offered another say on independence in the wake of the Brexit referendum which saw the UK vote in favour of leaving the EU. The survey also asked people's views on Brexit with two thirds of the Scottish public (66 percent) believing the Brexit transition period should be extended for up to two years to allow more time for trade negotiations. Meanwhile, almost a third (30 percent) feel the transition period should end on December 31 as planned. Emily Gray, managing director of Ipsos MORI Scotland, said: "The indication is that Scots' attitudes are shifting during the coronavirus outbreak, and those campaigning on both sides of the independence debate in Scotland will be watching public opinion very closely over the coming weeks and months." READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon squirms as she is grilled on 'devastating' COVID-19
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Support for Scottish independence has risen.
Ipsos MORI interviewed 1,006 Scottish adults by telephone between May 14 and 20. Responding to the poll, an SNP spokesman said: "This poll shows clear and growing majority support for an independence referendum. "Work on holding a referendum has been paused given the urgent priority of tackling the coronavirus pandemic. “But ultimately Scotland's future must and will be decided by the people who live here - not by Boris Johnson." DON'T MISS
Boris Johnson should ‘walk away’ from negotiations if EU demand waters [OPINION]
Remainers' hopes dashed! Desperate plot to thwart Brexit doomed [OPINION]
Priti Patel’s cryptic snub of David Cameron exposed [REVEAL]
The SNP leader is taking a more cautious approach to easing lockdown.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-28--David Frost 'right man for job!’ How UK Brexit negotiator is winning fans for trade talks

Former Brexit Secretary David Davis and his replacement Dominic Raab , who is now Foreign Secretary , came joint second with three percent each .
Stephen Barclay , who was the third and final Brexit Secretary , and ex-Brexit minister Steve Baker were both backed by one percent of respondents .
Some five percent replied other and two percent did not know .
Commenting on the poll , one reader said : “ After the disgraceful way our politicians handled our vote to Leave the EU for over three years - thankfully now , at long last , we seem @ @ @ @ @ @ @ job in David Frost… ” Another wrote : “ David Frost without question ... .
a masterstroke appointment akin to that of Dominic Cummings .
Boris knows how to pick his staff.
” A third commented : “ Clearly Boris has been the most important person in these negotiations .
“ It was Boris that employed Frost and gave him his negotiating mandate.
” Another said : “ Johnson , Cummings and Frost working as a team .
Frost stands out because of his very capable skills at negotiations.
” But a fifth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would have been NOTHING !
!
!
!
” The UK is in a transition period with the EU until the end of the year as the two sides negotiate a free trade deal .
DO N'T MISS Brexit transition WILL end this year : Frost lays down law over Barnier [ INSIGHT ] Brexit row explodes as Frost ridicules EU over Common Fisheries policy [ VIDEO ] No deal panic : Stalemate risks EVERYTHING for Brussels [ ANALYSIS ] Little progress was made in the latest round of post-Brexit talks , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus pandemic .
Key stumbling blocks include fishing arrangements and the EU ’ s call for a level playing field on standards .
The EU ’ s chief negotiator Michel Barnier offered an extension to the transition period in a letter to the Westminster leaders of the SNP , Lib Dems , Plaid Cymru , SDLP , Green Party and Alliance Party earlier this week .
The group had written to Mr Barnier on May 15 demanding for a two-year extension to be agreed between the UK and the EU .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the December 31 2020 deadline .
He told the Commons Committee on the Future Relationship with the European Union on Wednesday : `` That is the firm policy of the Government , that we will not extend the transition period and if asked we would not agree to it . ''
Earlier this month , the Prime Minister ’ s Europe adviser criticised the EU ’ s approach to negotiations in a letter to Mr Barnier .
He said the UK found it `` perplexing '' that the EU was continuing to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but argued `` rapid '' progress could be made if the bloc was willing to offer terms similar to those found in free trade agreements it had already struck with third countries such as Canada and Japan .

Brexit: David Frost insists UK ‘will not extend transition period’
Express.co.uk asked readers which British figure has been the most significant in Brexit talks with Brussels. A huge 84 percent of respondents chose Boris Johnson’s current Europe adviser.
Former Brexit Secretary David Davis and his replacement Dominic Raab, who is now Foreign Secretary, came joint second with three percent each. Stephen Barclay, who was the third and final Brexit Secretary, and ex-Brexit minister Steve Baker were both backed by one percent of respondents. Theresa May’s Europe adviser Olly Robbins received zero percent of votes. Some five percent replied other and two percent did not know.
David Frost has been the most important UK figure in Brexit negotiations with the EU - Express poll
Express.co.uk asked readers which British figure has been the most significant in Brexit talks with Brussels
Commenting on the poll, one reader said: “After the disgraceful way our politicians handled our vote to Leave the EU for over three years - thankfully now, at long last, we seem to have the right man for the job in David Frost…” Another wrote: “David Frost without question.... a masterstroke appointment akin to that of Dominic Cummings. Boris knows how to pick his staff.” A third commented: “Clearly Boris has been the most important person in these negotiations. “It was Boris that employed Frost and gave him his negotiating mandate.” READ MORE: BBC's Katya Adler exposes likely date UK-EU Brexit trade deal struck
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The UK is in a transition period with the EU until the end of the year as the two sides negotiate a free trade deal
Little progress was made in the latest round of post-Brexit talks, which have been taking place remotely due to the coronavirus pandemic
Little progress was made in the latest round of post-Brexit talks, which have been taking place remotely due to the coronavirus pandemic. Key stumbling blocks include fishing arrangements and the EU’s call for a level playing field on standards. The EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier offered an extension to the transition period in a letter to the Westminster leaders of the SNP, Lib Dems, Plaid Cymru, SDLP, Green Party and Alliance Party earlier this week. The group had written to Mr Barnier on May 15 demanding for a two-year extension to be agreed between the UK and the EU.
Key stumbling blocks include fishing arrangements and the EU’s call for a level playing field on standards
But Mr Frost has ruled out pushing back the December 31 2020 deadline. He told the Commons Committee on the Future Relationship with the European Union on Wednesday: "That is the firm policy of the Government, that we will not extend the transition period and if asked we would not agree to it." Earlier this month, the Prime Minister’s Europe adviser criticised the EU’s approach to negotiations in a letter to Mr Barnier. He said the UK found it "perplexing" that the EU was continuing to make "unbalanced, and unprecedented" demands but argued "rapid" progress could be made if the bloc was willing to offer terms similar to those found in free trade agreements it had already struck with third countries such as Canada and Japan.
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thedailyexpress--2020-05-28--Sir Keir Starmer lashes out at Boris in coronavirus attack - 'Cummings broke the rules!'

The new labour leader said Mr Cummings ’ actions were an “ insult ” to so many people who have scarified so much to adhere to the rules .
The MP for Holborn and St Pancras has now demanded Boris Johnson gets back on track and has demanded a 24-hour coronavirus test target .
Writing in the Daily Mirror , Sir Keir said he shared people ’ s frustrations about the scandal and called the Government “ untrustworthy ” for failing to sack the aide .
Sir Keir has previously said he would have sacked Mr Cummings if he were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s chief aide has been accused of breaching the lockdown rules by driving from London to Durham at the height of lockdown restrictions .
He drove 260 miles to visit his parents when he had COVID-19 and even drove a 60-mile round trip while he was there to Barnard Castle to “ check his eyesight ” .
Mr Cummings has not apologised as he said he needed to be close to his parents for childcare reasons .
Sir Keir said : “ Let ’ s begin with something Boris Johnson can ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of us know : Dominic Cummings broke the rules .
“ It is as simple as that .
“ His actions were an insult to the millions of people across Britain who have sacrificed so much during this pandemic .
SEE MORE : Do n't look at us !
Police admit lockdown crackdown ending “ In recent months , families have been forced to make the most agonising of decisions .
`` People have been unable to see loved ones .
“ Grandparents have been denied the chance to hold newborn grandchildren.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government that people will not have to wait longer than 24 hours to receive the results from a coronavirus test .
Boris warned of 'public rebellion ' unless he tells pubs to reopen soon He said : `` I share people ’ s frustrations , not just because of the actions of one adviser , but because this has become a national distraction at a moment of national crisis .
`` This was the week when we should have been talking about how we ease the lockdown safely .
How we restart our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ children back to school . ''
Sir Keir also tweeted : “ Boris Johnson ’ s unwillingness or inability to do the right thing has left the Government looking untrustworthy and unprincipled .
Brexit warning : Polling guru Curtice sends Boris warning [ REVIEW ] Emily Maitlis salary : How much does Emily Maitlis earn at BBC ?
[ VIDEO ] Remainers ' hopes dashed !
Desperate plot to thwart Brexit doomed [ COMMENT ]

Keir Starmer says he would sack Cummings if he were PM
The new labour leader said Mr Cummings’ actions were an “insult” to so many people who have scarified so much to adhere to the rules. The MP for Holborn and St Pancras has now demanded Boris Johnson gets back on track and has demanded a 24-hour coronavirus test target. Writing in the Daily Mirror, Sir Keir said he shared people’s frustrations about the scandal and called the Government “untrustworthy” for failing to sack the aide.
Sir Keir has previously said he would have sacked Mr Cummings if he were in Downing Street. The PM’s chief aide has been accused of breaching the lockdown rules by driving from London to Durham at the height of lockdown restrictions. He drove 260 miles to visit his parents when he had COVID-19 and even drove a 60-mile round trip while he was there to Barnard Castle to “check his eyesight”.
Sir Keir Starmer has lashed out at Boris Johnson over Cummings
Boris Johnson has been heavily criticised for not sacking Dominic Cummings
Mr Cummings has not apologised as he said he needed to be close to his parents for childcare reasons. Sir Keir said: “Let’s begin with something Boris Johnson can’t bring himself to say but the rest of us know: Dominic Cummings broke the rules. “It is as simple as that. “His actions were an insult to the millions of people across Britain who have sacrificed so much during this pandemic. SEE MORE: Don't look at us! Police admit lockdown crackdown ending
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Dominic Cummings has been blasted for breaching lockdown rules to travel to Durham
“In recent months, families have been forced to make the most agonising of decisions. "People have been unable to see loved ones. “Grandparents have been denied the chance to hold newborn grandchildren.” Sir Keir demanded a guarantee from the Government that people will not have to wait longer than 24 hours to receive the results from a coronavirus test. DON'T MISS: Boris warned of 'public rebellion' unless he tells pubs to reopen soon
Sir Keir has said Cummings breaking the lockdown has been an 'insult' to the general public
He said: "I share people’s frustrations, not just because of the actions of one adviser, but because this has become a national distraction at a moment of national crisis. "This was the week when we should have been talking about how we ease the lockdown safely. How we restart our economy, support businesses, get more children back to school." Sir Keir also tweeted: “Boris Johnson’s unwillingness or inability to do the right thing has left the Government looking untrustworthy and unprincipled. DON'T MISS: Brexit warning: Polling guru Curtice sends Boris warning [REVIEW]
Emily Maitlis salary: How much does Emily Maitlis earn at BBC? [VIDEO]
Remainers' hopes dashed! Desperate plot to thwart Brexit doomed [COMMENT]
Police have said the public have used Cummings as an excuse to break the lockdown


thedailyexpress--2020-05-28--France issues Brexit warning as UK trade talks with EU on the brink – 'It's going badly'

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said talks between Britain and Brussels , which have resumed following an interruption caused by the coronavirus crisis , were not going well .
Mr Le Drian said : `` The resumption of the talks is going badly , deep differences remain . ''
The UK finally unshackled itself from the EU on January 31 but the main terms of its membership remain in place during a transition period until the end of this year , allowing it time to negotiate a new free trade deal with the bloc .
The warning comes after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fly to Brussels to resume Brexit talks with the EU as trade negotiations judder to a halt .
The Prime Minister will fly in to the Belgian city with Britain 's chief negotiator David Frost to meet the presidents of the European Commission and Council to break the deadlock , reports in The Times say .
Talks on a new pact to cover everything from trade to fisheries to security from 2021 have reached an impasse before a key deadline at the end of June , when the bloc and London are to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of the key stumbling blocks in talks on a new partnership between the EU and Britain , which left the bloc earlier this year and is now in a status-quo transition until end-2020 to allow for talks on a new deal .
Fishing is politically sensitive for France and the 27-nation bloc says it would not seal a new trade deal with Britain without a stable agreement .
READ MORE : Send in the big guns !
Boris to fly to Brussels for Brexit talks Britain wants to ensure it is free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the transition period , saying it would become an independent coastal state and wants to be in control of its waters and fish .
But the EU has so far sought to keep the status quo , a demand an official with the bloc described as a `` maximalist '' starting point of negotiations .
With fundamental differences between the bloc and London , negotiators have struggled to make headway in video conferencing mode amidst coronavirus lockdowns barring physical meetings .
DO N'T MISS EU : Denmark 's plea to access to UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ renewal : How much does a passport renewal cost ?
[ EXPLAINER ] Brexit latest : Britons furious at Juncker ’ s plot to lure UK back to EU [ REVEALED ] The talks have made precious little progress so far and the EU has warned of a stalemate unless there is new momentum next week .
It comes after Mr Frost said Britain is `` firm '' that it will not extend the Brexit transition period beyond the end of the year .
Mr Frost insisted that Britain is taking the stance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the EU .
Speaking to the Commons Committee on the Future Relationship with the European Union , Mr Frost said : `` That is the firm policy of the Government that we will not extend the transition period and , if asked , we would not agree to it .

Brexit: BBC’s Katya Adler exposes EU’s ‘nightmare’ during talks
French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said talks between Britain and Brussels, which have resumed following an interruption caused by the coronavirus crisis, were not going well. Mr Le Drian said: "The resumption of the talks is going badly, deep differences remain."
Trending
The UK finally unshackled itself from the EU on January 31 but the main terms of its membership remain in place during a transition period until the end of this year, allowing it time to negotiate a new free trade deal with the bloc. The warning comes after it emerged Prime Minister Boris Johnson will fly to Brussels to resume Brexit talks with the EU as trade negotiations judder to a halt. The Prime Minister will fly in to the Belgian city with Britain's chief negotiator David Frost to meet the presidents of the European Commission and Council to break the deadlock, reports in The Times say.
Brexit news: France has issued a Brexit warning
Fishing is politically sensitive for France
Talks on a new pact to cover everything from trade to fisheries to security from 2021 have reached an impasse before a key deadline at the end of June, when the bloc and London are to assess their progress. Fisheries have been one of the key stumbling blocks in talks on a new partnership between the EU and Britain, which left the bloc earlier this year and is now in a status-quo transition until end-2020 to allow for talks on a new deal. Fishing is politically sensitive for France and the 27-nation bloc says it would not seal a new trade deal with Britain without a stable agreement. READ MORE: Send in the big guns! Boris to fly to Brussels for Brexit talks
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Michel Barnier has said Brexit could be delayed by two years
Britain wants to ensure it is free from the much-hated Common Fisheries Policy after the transition period, saying it would become an independent coastal state and wants to be in control of its waters and fish. But the EU has so far sought to keep the status quo, a demand an official with the bloc described as a "maximalist" starting point of negotiations. With fundamental differences between the bloc and London, negotiators have struggled to make headway in video conferencing mode amidst coronavirus lockdowns barring physical meetings. DON'T MISS
EU: Denmark's plea to access to UK fishing waters exposed [INSIGHT]
Passport renewal: How much does a passport renewal cost? [EXPLAINER]
Brexit latest: Britons furious at Juncker’s plot to lure UK back to EU [REVEALED]
Boris Johnson has insisted Brexit will not be delayed
The talks have made precious little progress so far and the EU has warned of a stalemate unless there is new momentum next week. It comes after Mr Frost said Britain is "firm" that it will not extend the Brexit transition period beyond the end of the year.
The Brexit timeline revealed
Mr Frost insisted that Britain is taking the stance to avoid more "significant" payments to the EU. Speaking to the Commons Committee on the Future Relationship with the European Union, Mr Frost said: "That is the firm policy of the Government that we will not extend the transition period and, if asked, we would not agree to it.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-29--Brexit POLL: Do you think Remainers will get Brexit delayed in latest plot? VOTE

The pro-Remain group have sparked a furious backlash by trying to sneak a Bill through the UK Parliament that demands a two-year extension to the post-Brexit transition period beyond December 31 , 2020 .
The EU 's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier wrote to leaders of the UK 's opposition political parties , including the Liberal Democrats and SNP , on Wednesday to say Brussels is open to the idea of a delay by up to 24 months .
Both Boris Johnson and the UK 's lead negotiator David Frost immediately slapped this down , insisting an agreement between the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this year .
But a summary of a Bill posted on the UK Parliament website showed a motion has been put forward in an attempt to push through an extension .
This says : `` A Bill to require Her Majesty 's Government to seek a two-year extension to the implementation period under Article 132 of the Withdrawal Agreement ; to repeal the -prohibition on agreeing to such an extension under section 33 of the European Union ( Withdrawal Agreement ) Act 2000 , and for connected purposes . ''
The next stage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - is scheduled to take place on June 12 .
The Private Members Bill laid by Liberal Democrat acting co-leader Sir Ed Davey was presented to Parliament last Wednesday - but fury around its demand to extend the transition period sparked renewed fury .
The Brexit Party 's Martin Daubney , who served as a member of the European Parliament between 2019 and 2020 , tweeted : `` Just been contacted by a Tory MP , furious that Lib Dem co-leader Ed Davey is trying to squeeze through a Bill that will demand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Remain elite still won ’ t listen to the British public !
Expect huge fireworks on June 12th . ''
The Social Democratic and Labour Party ( SDLP ) , which currently has two MPs in Westminster , is also trying to push through a proposal in the Northern Irish Parliament of Stormont to extend the transition period .
The motion will be debated on Tuesday , with the SDLP 's Brexit spokesperson Matthew O ’ Toole claiming this will mark the “ first time since the restoration of devolution that the Northern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Brexit ” .
But the DUP 's Brexit spokesperson Sammy Wilson dismissed the outcome of the proposal as `` irrelevant '' as any decision over whether to pursue any extension to the transition period will be made in Westminster .
He also lashed out at the motion as being “ despicable ” for “ trying to use the health crisis as a means to pursue their political agenda on Europe ” .
Mr Wilson told Northern Ireland daily newspaper The News Letter : “ First of all , I ’ m not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the simple reason that the SDLP don ’ t want us to leave the European Union and will use every excuse to try and find a way of stopping us .
“ What I find particularly despicable is that they are trying to use the health crisis that we are facing as a means to pursue their political agenda on Europe .
DO N'T MISS Brexit latest : What 's going on with Brexit now ?
All the latest news [ ANALYSIS ] Boris cuts down Michel Barnier 's two-year extension plea [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK figure in Brexit negotiations [ POLL ] “ Secondly , not only is it a political move but it is also an illogical move .
What do you gain by delaying ?
The more urgency you put into this the more likely it is that you will get the EU to move in the negotiations.
” The East Antrim MP continued : “ Clearly there are massive issues that the EU now has to face with the fallout from the virus , the impact that it ’ s having on economies across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ find themselves in a situation where some of the different countries are concerned by the way coronavirus has been handled by the EU .
“ The last thing they need is for prolonged Brexit negotiations to distract their attention from the problems they have to deal with .
That is a massive opportunity for the government to secure a deal that ensures trade will continue tariff free.
” “ The Assembly debate is irrelevant .
This is a decision to be made in London .
The Prime Minister has made it quite clear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the deadline .
”

Brexit: Frost says they 'wouldn't agree' to EU extension request
The pro-Remain group have sparked a furious backlash by trying to sneak a Bill through the UK Parliament that demands a two-year extension to the post-Brexit transition period beyond December 31, 2020. The EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier wrote to leaders of the UK's opposition political parties, including the Liberal Democrats and SNP, on Wednesday to say Brussels is open to the idea of a delay by up to 24 months. Both Boris Johnson and the UK's lead negotiator David Frost immediately slapped this down, insisting an agreement between the two sides would have to be signed this year. This poll has now closed. Click here for the results.
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But a summary of a Bill posted on the UK Parliament website showed a motion has been put forward in an attempt to push through an extension. This says: "A Bill to require Her Majesty's Government to seek a two-year extension to the implementation period under Article 132 of the Withdrawal Agreement; to repeal the -prohibition on agreeing to such an extension under section 33 of the European Union (Withdrawal Agreement) Act 2000, and for connected purposes." The next stage for the Bill - the second reading - is scheduled to take place on June 12. The Private Members Bill laid by Liberal Democrat acting co-leader Sir Ed Davey was presented to Parliament last Wednesday - but fury around its demand to extend the transition period sparked renewed fury.
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The Brexit Party's Martin Daubney, who served as a member of the European Parliament between 2019 and 2020, tweeted: "Just been contacted by a Tory MP, furious that Lib Dem co-leader Ed Davey is trying to squeeze through a Bill that will demand a two-year Brexit extension. "The Remain elite still won’t listen to the British public! Expect huge fireworks on June 12th." The Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP), which currently has two MPs in Westminster, is also trying to push through a proposal in the Northern Irish Parliament of Stormont to extend the transition period. The motion will be debated on Tuesday, with the SDLP's Brexit spokesperson Matthew O’Toole claiming this will mark the “first time since the restoration of devolution that the Northern Ireland Assembly has had a substantive debate on Brexit”. READ MORE: EU 'nightmare' exposed: BBC's Adler explains Brussels talks fears
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But the DUP's Brexit spokesperson Sammy Wilson dismissed the outcome of the proposal as "irrelevant" as any decision over whether to pursue any extension to the transition period will be made in Westminster. He also lashed out at the motion as being “despicable” for “trying to use the health crisis as a means to pursue their political agenda on Europe”. Mr Wilson told Northern Ireland daily newspaper The News Letter: “First of all, I’m not surprised at all by the SDLP for the simple reason that the SDLP don’t want us to leave the European Union and will use every excuse to try and find a way of stopping us. “What I find particularly despicable is that they are trying to use the health crisis that we are facing as a means to pursue their political agenda on Europe. DON'T MISS
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“Secondly, not only is it a political move but it is also an illogical move. What do you gain by delaying? The more urgency you put into this the more likely it is that you will get the EU to move in the negotiations.” The East Antrim MP continued: “Clearly there are massive issues that the EU now has to face with the fallout from the virus, the impact that it’s having on economies across Europe, the fact that they now find themselves in a situation where some of the different countries are concerned by the way coronavirus has been handled by the EU. “The last thing they need is for prolonged Brexit negotiations to distract their attention from the problems they have to deal with. That is a massive opportunity for the government to secure a deal that ensures trade will continue tariff free.” “The Assembly debate is irrelevant. This is a decision to be made in London. The Prime Minister has made it quite clear that the 31st of December is still the deadline.”
Brexit news: The transition period is due to end on December 31, 2020


thedailyexpress--2020-05-29--Brexit fury: Remainers submit 'Barnier's Bill' demanding two-year delay to EU exit

The European Union 's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier wrote to leaders of opposition political parties on Wednesday to say the bloc is open to the idea of an extension by up to 24 months .
Both Boris Johnson and the UK 's head Brexit negotiator David Frost immediately rejected this , and said a post-Brexit trade deal would have to be signed this year .
But a summary of a Bill posted on the UK Parliament website states one has been put forward in an attempt to push through an extension .
This says : `` A Bill to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a two-year extension to the implementation period under Article 132 of the Withdrawal Agreement ; to repeal the -prohibition on agreeing to such an extension under section 33 of the European Union ( Withdrawal Agreement ) Act 2000 , and for connected purposes . ''
The next stage for the Bill - the second reading - is scheduled to take place on June 12 .
The Brexit Party 's Martin Daubney , who served as a member of the European Parliament between 2019 and 2020 , tweeted he had been contacted by a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ furious '' acting Liberal Democrat co-leader Sir Ed Davey is trying to force through the Bill .
Mr Daubney tweeted : `` Just been contacted by a Tory MP , furious that Lib Dem co-leader Ed Davey is trying to squeeze through a Bill that will demand a two-year Brexit extension .
`` The Remain elite still won ’ t listen to the British public !
Expect huge fireworks on June 12th . ''
The Private Members Bill laid by Mr Davey was presented to Parliament last Wednesday - but fury around its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ renewed fury .
One person wrote on Twitter : `` It 's a Private Members ' Bill .
Wo n't go anywhere .
`` Plays to Davey 's gallery and reminds everyone that the Lib Dems are an anti-democratic irrelevance . ''
A second person tweeted : `` Everything for the last four years either has it 's roots in 23rd June 2016 or is used to influence the events since 23rd June 2016 .
`` The day we leave and leave proper ca n't come soon enough . ''
READ MORE : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brought down by shock Italy exit Another wrote : `` It 's shocking that in a time of national crisis we can see what the opposition have been spending the time doing .
`` Meanwhile they have done zero to work with the Government . ''
The UK has until the start of July to request an extension to the Brexit transition period which currently comes to an end on December 31 2020 .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has repeatedly ruled out extending the transition period - as Brexit trade talks continue via @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chief Brexit negotiator wrote to the Westminster leaders of the SNP , Liberal Democrats , Plaid Cymru , SDLP , Green Party and Alliance Party , and said the option of an extension to the transition period is available if the UK wants it .
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Time running @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had previously written to Mr Barnier on May 15 calling for a two-year extension to be agreed between the UK and EU .
Mr Barnier wrote : `` The European Union remains determined to build a new and ambitious partnership with the United Kingdom in the short time that is available , given your Government 's repeated statements that it will not agree to an extension of the transition period .
`` I take note on your views of a possible extension to the transition period .
`` Such an extension of up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreed jointly by the two parties .
`` The European Union has always said that we remain open on this matter . ''
`` Regardless of the extension issue , please rest assured that the EU side will continue to do its utmost to reach an ambitious and balanced partnership agreement with the United Kingdom . ''
The SNP 's Westminster leader Mr Blackford welcomed the letter from Mr Barnier and called the Prime Minister to accept the offer of a two-year extension .
He said : `` Boris Johnson must finally put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the economy first - and urgently agree the two-year extension on offer to the transition period .
`` It would be madness to pile a Brexit crisis on top of the coronavirus crisis we already face - with unemployment soaring , businesses shedding jobs , and many struggling to survive .
`` Time is running out .
There is just a month left to agree an extension to prevent the UK crashing out with a devastating bad deal or a catastrophic No-Deal .
`` If the Prime Minister fails to agree an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ job lost , every income slashed , and every business that goes under as a result of his bad Brexit deal .
`` The SNP will continue to press for a long extension to protect Scotland 's economy - but the only way to guarantee Scotland 's interests and protect our place at the heart of Europe is to become an independent country . ''
Speaking before a Commons committee on the future relationship with the EU following recent negotiations , he said : `` That is the firm policy of the Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and if asked we would not agree to it , '' he said .
`` And , I take that as a given .
`` I think we have always put a lot of emphasis on economic and political freedom at the end of this year and on avoiding ongoing significant payments into the EU budget .
`` And , of course , those things are accomplished by ending the transition period at the end of the year . ''

Brexit: David Frost insists UK ‘will not extend transition period’
The European Union's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier wrote to leaders of opposition political parties on Wednesday to say the bloc is open to the idea of an extension by up to 24 months. Both Boris Johnson and the UK's head Brexit negotiator David Frost immediately rejected this, and said a post-Brexit trade deal would have to be signed this year. But a summary of a Bill posted on the UK Parliament website states one has been put forward in an attempt to push through an extension.
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This says: "A Bill to require Her Majesty's Government to seek a two-year extension to the implementation period under Article 132 of the Withdrawal Agreement; to repeal the -prohibition on agreeing to such an extension under section 33 of the European Union (Withdrawal Agreement) Act 2000, and for connected purposes." The next stage for the Bill - the second reading - is scheduled to take place on June 12. The Brexit Party's Martin Daubney, who served as a member of the European Parliament between 2019 and 2020, tweeted he had been contacted by a Tory MP who has been left "furious" acting Liberal Democrat co-leader Sir Ed Davey is trying to force through the Bill. Mr Daubney tweeted: "Just been contacted by a Tory MP, furious that Lib Dem co-leader Ed Davey is trying to squeeze through a Bill that will demand a two-year Brexit extension. "The Remain elite still won’t listen to the British public! Expect huge fireworks on June 12th."
Brexit news: Remainers are trying to force through a Bill demanding an extension
Brexit news: Boris Johnson is insisting the transition period will not be extended
The Private Members Bill laid by Mr Davey was presented to Parliament last Wednesday - but fury around its demand to extend the transition period sparked renewed fury. One person wrote on Twitter: "It's a Private Members' Bill. Won't go anywhere. "Plays to Davey's gallery and reminds everyone that the Lib Dems are an anti-democratic irrelevance." A second person tweeted: "Everything for the last four years either has it's roots in 23rd June 2016 or is used to influence the events since 23rd June 2016. "The day we leave and leave proper can't come soon enough." READ MORE: EU on brink: Bloc could be brought down by shock Italy exit
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Brexit news: Sir Ed Davey has sparked a backlash on Twitter
Another wrote: "It's shocking that in a time of national crisis we can see what the opposition have been spending the time doing. "Meanwhile they have done zero to work with the Government." The UK has until the start of July to request an extension to the Brexit transition period which currently comes to an end on December 31 2020. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has repeatedly ruled out extending the transition period - as Brexit trade talks continue via video next week. The EU's chief Brexit negotiator wrote to the Westminster leaders of the SNP, Liberal Democrats, Plaid Cymru, SDLP, Green Party and Alliance Party, and said the option of an extension to the transition period is available if the UK wants it. DON'T MISS
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Brexit news: Michel Barnier has proposed a two-year extension to the transition period
These party leaders had previously written to Mr Barnier on May 15 calling for a two-year extension to be agreed between the UK and EU. Mr Barnier wrote: "The European Union remains determined to build a new and ambitious partnership with the United Kingdom in the short time that is available, given your Government's repeated statements that it will not agree to an extension of the transition period. "I take note on your views of a possible extension to the transition period. "Such an extension of up to one or two years can be agreed jointly by the two parties. "The European Union has always said that we remain open on this matter." "Regardless of the extension issue, please rest assured that the EU side will continue to do its utmost to reach an ambitious and balanced partnership agreement with the United Kingdom."
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Brexit news: Trade talks between the UK and EU started in March
The SNP's Westminster leader Mr Blackford welcomed the letter from Mr Barnier and called the Prime Minister to accept the offer of a two-year extension. He said: "Boris Johnson must finally put his responsibilities to jobs, living standards and the economy first - and urgently agree the two-year extension on offer to the transition period. "It would be madness to pile a Brexit crisis on top of the coronavirus crisis we already face - with unemployment soaring, businesses shedding jobs, and many struggling to survive. "Time is running out. There is just a month left to agree an extension to prevent the UK crashing out with a devastating bad deal or a catastrophic No-Deal. "If the Prime Minister fails to agree an extension he will be responsible for every job lost, every income slashed, and every business that goes under as a result of his bad Brexit deal. "The SNP will continue to press for a long extension to protect Scotland's economy - but the only way to guarantee Scotland's interests and protect our place at the heart of Europe is to become an independent country."
Brexit news; There is a June 30 deadline for extending the transition period
Liberal Democrat leadership candidate Layla Moran urged Mr Johnson to "put his pride aside" and agree to an extension of the transition period. She said: "The transition period was designed to give us time to secure a trade deal and make preparations for it to come into effect. "That time has already, and understandably, been decimated by the Coronavirus response. This makes a dangerous No-Deal Brexit more likely at the end of the year, unless we extend the transition period. "I am urging the Prime Minister to put his pride aside, tackle the crisis in front of him and take the extension he's being offered." But the UK's chief Brexit negotiator David Frost insisted to MPs the UK will not be extending the Brexit transition period beyond the end of this year.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-29--EU panic: Brussels fears UK won't pay full Brexit bill – capitals asked to plug black hole

EU budget commissioner Johannes Hahn said member states should be prepared to hand over more cash in case Britain doesn ’ t pay its full Brexit bill .
The UK left the EU at the end of January , but agreed to continue paying towards various financial obligations that the country agreed to while still a member .
The Office of Budget Responsibility estimated the total financial settlement to be worth £32.9 billion when the UK left the EU on January 31 .
Eurocrats have warned of a vast black hole left in the EU ’ s budget as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Officials have predicted around a €60-75 billion gap in the EU ’ s next seven-year budget because of Brexit .
EU law states that governments can be asked to make a maximum national contribution to the bloc ’ s coffers of 1.2 percent of gross national income .
But the European Commission has called for a higher ceiling to help repay a proposed €750 billion coronavirus recovery fund , which will see the Brussels-based executive borrow on international markets to raise the cash .
Mr Hahn said : “ Our proposal is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of GNI on a permanent basis in order to serve the repayments , but also in case there is an issue concerning Brexit to be prepared for.
” He added : “ In case of hard Brexit , if they don ’ t pay what they promised to pay , it is sound financial management on our side.
” The fears come despite numerous promises from Downing Street that it will fulfil all of its obligations agreed in the EU Withdrawal Agreement .
The budget chief said the Commission could even propose that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to two percent .
But this could come in the form of a guarantee , which means actual contributions would be less than Brussels ’ demands .
Mr Hahn said : “ Then on top of it , to borrow the necessary amount on the market , we want to increase the headroom by another 0.6 percent , so to two percent of GNI until the end of the repayment period.
” The Commission wants to repay all of the bonds by 2058 .
MUST READ : Politicians fury over ‘ despicable ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ von der Leyen , the Commission ’ s president , wants to borrow against the security of increased EU government guarantees for the 2021-2027 budget .
The German ’ s blueprint , which also involves handing eurocrats unprecedented taxation powers , is due to be debated by EU leaders at a summit on June 19 .
In order to implement the recovery fund , the Commission will need to secure the unanimous backing of the EU27 .
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EU budget commissioner Johannes Hahn said member states should be prepared to hand over more cash in case Britain doesn’t pay its full Brexit bill. The UK left the EU at the end of January, but agreed to continue paying towards various financial obligations that the country agreed to while still a member. The Office of Budget Responsibility estimated the total financial settlement to be worth £32.9 billion when the UK left the EU on January 31.
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Eurocrats have warned of a vast black hole left in the EU’s budget as a result of the UK’s departure. Officials have predicted around a €60-75 billion gap in the EU’s next seven-year budget because of Brexit. EU law states that governments can be asked to make a maximum national contribution to the bloc’s coffers of 1.2 percent of gross national income. But the European Commission has called for a higher ceiling to help repay a proposed €750 billion coronavirus recovery fund, which will see the Brussels-based executive borrow on international markets to raise the cash.
The EU Commission is making contingency plans for Boris Johnson not paying full Brexit bill
EU budget commissioner Johannes Hahn
Mr Hahn said: “Our proposal is to increase the ceiling to 1.4 percent of GNI on a permanent basis in order to serve the repayments, but also in case there is an issue concerning Brexit to be prepared for.” He added: “In case of hard Brexit, if they don’t pay what they promised to pay, it is sound financial management on our side.” The fears come despite numerous promises from Downing Street that it will fulfil all of its obligations agreed in the EU Withdrawal Agreement. The budget chief said the Commission could even propose that member states make national contributions of up to two percent.
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Prime Minister Boris Johnson
But this could come in the form of a guarantee, which means actual contributions would be less than Brussels’ demands. Mr Hahn said: “Then on top of it, to borrow the necessary amount on the market, we want to increase the headroom by another 0.6 percent, so to two percent of GNI until the end of the repayment period.” The Commission wants to repay all of the bonds by 2058. MUST READ: Politicians fury over ‘despicable’ attempt to delay Brexit for years
The European Commission's Berlaymont headquarters in Brussels
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