thedailyexpress--2020-02-07--Brexit shock: Trade deal could be vetoed by ANY EU state - Boris sent warning

EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier set out Brussels ’ negotiating objectives this week .
Within those objectives , Mr Barnier @ @ @ @ @ to sign up to an extensive and ambitious trade deal with the UK .
The @ @ @ @ @ be set for a snag after Mr Barnier declared within the objectives that the future @ @ @ @ @ partnership should uphold the precautionary principle in the Union as set out in the Treaty @ @ @ @ @ European Union ” .
According to Politico , the reference to the treaty means all @ @ @ @ @ must come to a unanimous agreement .
This , therefore , allows a member state @ @ @ @ @ which talks are proceeding to “ force Barnier into keeping every country ’ s interests @ @ @ @ @ negotiations ” .
Despite Britons celebrating Brexit Day last week , Mr Barnier also warned @ @ @ @ @ could go on past 2020 on Monday .

Brexit: EU to offer ’ambitious trade deal’ says Michel Barnier
EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier set out Brussels’ negotiating objectives this week. Within those objectives, Mr Barnier said the EU is willing to sign up to an extensive and ambitious trade deal with the UK.
The deal, however, could be set for a snag after Mr Barnier declared within the objectives that the future agreement must uphold the “partnership should uphold the precautionary principle in the Union as set out in the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union”. According to Politico, the reference to the treaty means all members of the European Parliament must come to a unanimous agreement. This, therefore, allows a member state to veto the direction to which talks are proceeding to “force Barnier into keeping every country’s interests in mind during the upcoming negotiations”. Despite Britons celebrating Brexit Day last week, Mr Barnier also warned negotiations over a trade deal could go on past 2020 on Monday.
Brexit news: How legislation could stall trade deal
Brexit news: The legislation could block the trade deal
During his speech on Monday, Mr Barnier insisted “outstanding issues” to the deal will need to be agreed past this year. A delay to the Brexit deal would be a huge blow to Mr Johnson who has stuck to his promise negotiations will be concluded within the year. The EU is currently hammering out its negotiating mandate which the Express understands will be something to similar to that of Brussels’ trading agreement with the Ukraine. Brussels wants to “avoid a proliferation of bilateral agreements and the shortcomings which characterise the EU’s relationship with Switzerland”. JUST IN: The two word response that shut down moaning Lib Dem Ed Davey
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Brexit news: Mr Barnier warned of negotiations spilling over until 2021
The EU and Switzerland are currently governed by 120 individual agreements covering multiple areas. The EU and Ukraine signed the “Association Agreement” in 2014, which if done so with the UK, would allow Mr Barnier to expedite talks. Going forward, Brussels is looking to secure an overarching deal which ties in multiple sectors and falls into their demands of a “level playing field”. The idea of a “level playing field” has been persistently repeated by EU officials. DON'T MISS
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Brexit news: Mr Johnson will push for a tough stance on UK waters
The term represents a requirement for common rules and standards to prevent a country from undercutting its rivals. Ireland’s minister for foreign affairs, Simon Coveney said: “There won’t be a trade deal if there isn’t a level playing field, one that is robust and credible. “Standards will have to be maintained in regards to environmental standards, or workers’ rights and so on. “That is only half of the challenge, the other half is around fair competition.
Brexit timeline
“If the UK is trying to derive a competitive advantage for its own companies in order to trade into the EU – if that’s the objective there will be no trade deal.” EU officials have already declared UK fishing waters must remain open to European vessels. They have also expressed concern over the UK dropping tax rates in order to attract greater trade from abroad.
Brexit news: Simon Coveney insisted on a "level playing field"
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-08--Brexit FURY: UK fishermen ‘first thrown overboard’ if Boris serious about EU trade deal

Boris Johnson delivered Brexit as promised on January 31 , clearing the path for the UK to finally leave the European Union .
He will now turn his attentions to trade talks with Brussels , which will begin next month and wants a full post-Brexit deal in place by the end of the transition period in December 2020 .
But fishing has already emerged as arguably the biggest stumbling block in upcoming negotiations .
The Prime Minister is pushing for a Canada-style deal before the end of the transition period in December - an agreement which took Canada and Brussels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Mr Johnson has insisted British fishing grounds are “ first and foremost ” for UK boats , but the EU ’ s chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier has said allowing European trawlers into British waters was “ inextricably linked ” to striking a trade agreement .
Professor Alex de Ruyter , director of the Centre for Brexit Studies at Birmingham City University , warned : “ The EU will insist on access to UK fishing waters in addition to level-playing field provisions and precursors to any trade agreement .
`` With over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exported to EU states , the idea of excluding EU vessels doesn ’ t look like it will hold water .
“ The most likely result of failure would be tariffs on UK fishing exports which ( unless the UK public discover a vastly increased appetite for langoustines and smoked salmon ) would bring the fishing industry to its knees .
“ Expect UK fishermen to be the first thrown overboard if Johnson seriously wants to pursue a trade agreement with the EU.
” If the Prime Minister does sacrifice UK fishing in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the EU , other member states would still have access to UK waters .
But Mr de Ruyter warned whilst British fishermen have continued to vent their fury at Brussels over their treatment , they should in fact be looking closer to home for more definitive answers .
READ MORE : Britons rage as blocked French fishermen threaten to torch UK boats He said : “ The current quota system which is seen as the bugbear by fishermen casts the EU as the villain for all the wrong reasons .
“ Whilst @ @ @ @ @ @ @ level , it is the UK Government that decides how that quota is split amongst fishermen , and smaller operators are disadvantaged by UK Government tendering practices that favour large commercial ( including foreign ) vessels.
” Professor de Ruyter also warned similarities shared between the UK and several other major EU nations mean their respective Governments won ’ t “ sell them down the estuary ” or “ throw them overboard ” .
He said : “ The issue of fishing in trade negotiations appears “ totemic ” for both sides , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ generates .
DO N'T MISS Boris urged to bulk up Royal Navy to protect British fisheries [ COMMENT ] Leading Brexiteer savages EU fishing threat amid Brexit punch-up [ VIDEO ] UK will come out on top in EU trade talks , business leader predicts [ OPINION ] “ The Dutch , French , Spanish and Danish for example have maritime traditions equally strong to the UK , and they have fishermen who will have fished in UK waters for decades .
“ Their Governments will not “ sell them down the estuary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
” The UK Government has introduced legislation which it says ensures Britain will become an independent coastal state , quitting Europe ’ s Common Fisheries Policy and ending automatic access for EU vessels to fish in British waters .
But with future access and quotas set to be negotiated with the EU , there are concerns the fishing industry could lose out if it is used as a bargaining chip .
Mr Johnson said : “ There is no need for a free trade agreement to involve accepting EU rules on competition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the environment or anything similar , any more than the EU should be obliged to accept UK rules .
“ The UK will maintain the highest standards in these areas , better in many respects than those of the EU , without the compulsion of a treaty.
” He added that if a Canada-style agreement was not possible , he would walk away without a full trade deal - like Australia ’ s relationship with the EU .
Mr Johnson said that while he was ready to consider a deal with Brussels on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fact that the UK will be an independent coastal state from the end of this year , controlling our own waters ” .

Brexit: British fishing grounds are for British boats says Johnson
Boris Johnson delivered Brexit as promised on January 31, clearing the path for the UK to finally leave the European Union. He will now turn his attentions to trade talks with Brussels, which will begin next month and wants a full post-Brexit deal in place by the end of the transition period in December 2020. But fishing has already emerged as arguably the biggest stumbling block in upcoming negotiations.
The Prime Minister is pushing for a Canada-style deal before the end of the transition period in December - an agreement which took Canada and Brussels to agree on between 2009 and 2017. Mr Johnson has insisted British fishing grounds are “first and foremost” for UK boats, but the EU’s chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier has said allowing European trawlers into British waters was “inextricably linked” to striking a trade agreement. Professor Alex de Ruyter, director of the Centre for Brexit Studies at Birmingham City University, warned: “The EU will insist on access to UK fishing waters in addition to level-playing field provisions and precursors to any trade agreement. "With over 70 percent of the UK catch being exported to EU states, the idea of excluding EU vessels doesn’t look like it will hold water.
Brexit news: Boris Johnson is fighting to secure favourable rights for UK fishermen
Brexit news: Fishing has emerged as one of the biggest stumbling blocks in upcoming trade deal talks
Expect UK fishermen to be the first thrown overboard if Johnson seriously wants to pursue a trade agreement with the EU Professor Alex de Ruyter
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“The most likely result of failure would be tariffs on UK fishing exports which (unless the UK public discover a vastly increased appetite for langoustines and smoked salmon) would bring the fishing industry to its knees. “Expect UK fishermen to be the first thrown overboard if Johnson seriously wants to pursue a trade agreement with the EU.” If the Prime Minister does sacrifice UK fishing in exchange for a more favourable trade deal with the EU, other member states would still have access to UK waters. But Mr de Ruyter warned whilst British fishermen have continued to vent their fury at Brussels over their treatment, they should in fact be looking closer to home for more definitive answers. READ MORE: Britons rage as blocked French fishermen threaten to torch UK boats
Brexit news: The Prime Minister has insisted UK fishing grounds are 'first and foremost' for boats
He said: “The current quota system which is seen as the bugbear by fishermen casts the EU as the villain for all the wrong reasons. “Whilst the quota is agreed at the EU level, it is the UK Government that decides how that quota is split amongst fishermen, and smaller operators are disadvantaged by UK Government tendering practices that favour large commercial (including foreign) vessels.” Professor de Ruyter also warned similarities shared between the UK and several other major EU nations mean their respective Governments won’t “sell them down the estuary” or “throw them overboard”. He said: “The issue of fishing in trade negotiations appears “totemic” for both sides, despite the trivial economic contribution the sector generates. DON'T MISS
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Leading Brexiteer savages EU fishing threat amid Brexit punch-up [VIDEO]
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Brexit news: Boris Johnson wants a Canada-style agreement with the EU
Brexit news: Michel Barnier warned allowing European trawlers into British waters was 'inextricably linked' to striking a trade deal
“The Dutch, French, Spanish and Danish for example have maritime traditions equally strong to the UK, and they have fishermen who will have fished in UK waters for decades. “Their Governments will not “sell them down the estuary” or “throw them overboard”.” The UK Government has introduced legislation which it says ensures Britain will become an independent coastal state, quitting Europe’s Common Fisheries Policy and ending automatic access for EU vessels to fish in British waters. But with future access and quotas set to be negotiated with the EU, there are concerns the fishing industry could lose out if it is used as a bargaining chip.
Brexit news: European fisheries - Exclusive Economic Zones of the UK and neighbouring coastal states
Mr Johnson said: “There is no need for a free trade agreement to involve accepting EU rules on competition policies, subsidies, social protection, the environment or anything similar, any more than the EU should be obliged to accept UK rules. “The UK will maintain the highest standards in these areas, better in many respects than those of the EU, without the compulsion of a treaty.” He added that if a Canada-style agreement was not possible, he would walk away without a full trade deal - like Australia’s relationship with the EU. Mr Johnson said that while he was ready to consider a deal with Brussels on fisheries, “it must reflect the fact that the UK will be an independent coastal state from the end of this year, controlling our own waters”.
Brexit news: Michel Barnier is standing firm on the rights of EU fishermen in UK waters
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-07--France demands ‘NO restrictions’ on fishermen in UK waters as price for Brexit trade deal

The decision by Guernsey authorities to temporarily suspend access to the island ’ s waters by French vessels in the wake of Brexit last week sparked consternation and outcry in France .
Conservative heavyweight Xavier Bertrand said on Thursday there should be “ no restrictions ” on fisheries in any future trade agreement .
“ There should be no restrictions at all on French fishermen , ” M Bertrand , the president of the northern Hauts-de-France region , told France Info radio , amid an ongoing dispute over EU access to British waters following the UK ’ s departure from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must speak a clearer and stricter language to our British friends by telling them this : if we can ’ t fish in your waters , you can ’ t fish in ours , ” he warned .
French fishermen regained access to waters around Guernsey on Wednesday , after a controversial five-day fishing ban triggered by post-Brexit administrative changes .
The agreement on water access to Guernsey coasts , one of the Channel Islands situated near the French coast of Normandy , was based on a European fisheries treaty that expired automatically @ @ @ @ @ @ @ authorities in Guernsey , a Crown dependency unilaterally decided to install a system whereby boats would need to get individual authorisations to enter the waters 6 to twelve miles off its coasts .
London and Brussels now need to negotiate a post-divorce trade agreement but for now , the relationship is a business-as-usual transition period until the end of this year , meaning that French fishermen would retain access to British waters and vice versa .
M Bertrand continued : “ If we want an intelligent deal , one that is mutually beneficial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We must tell the British that fisheries is a central concern in post-Brexit negotiations.
” The European Union will link any access to its markets for British products directly to the access that EU boats will be given to UK waters , the bloc ’ s chief negotiator warned on Monday .
Michel Barnier underlined the difficulties of the upcoming trade negotiations with Britain when he highlighted the small but symbolic fisheries industry .
He told France Inter radio that “ there will be no trade deal with the British if there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” .
He said : “ We will negotiate access to the British territorial waters for European fishermen at the same time that we negotiate access to European markets for British fisheries products .
I hope I make myself clear.
” Overall , the bloc is open to striking a zero-tariff , zero-quota trade deal with London , but only if Britain abides by EU standards on the environment , workers ’ rights , tax and state aid .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson , for his part , retorted there was “ no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ involve accepting EU rules ” .
“ Are we going to insist that the EU does everything that we do as the price of free trade ?
Are we ?
Of course not , ” Mr Johnson said in a speech in London , adding that Britain ’ s preferred choice was a Canada-style accord .
“ We want a comprehensive free trade agreement similar to Canada ’ s but in the unlikely event that we do not succeed then our trade will have to be based on our existing withdrawal agreement with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ London and Brussels have 11 months to seal a trade deal .
But if there is no deal by the end of 2020 and the UK refuses to extend the negotiating period , a chaotic no-deal scenario could still happen – with tariffs and other obstacles to trade imposed immediately between the UK and EU .

Brexit: British fishing grounds are for British boats says Johnson
The decision by Guernsey authorities to temporarily suspend access to the island’s waters by French vessels in the wake of Brexit last week sparked consternation and outcry in France. Conservative heavyweight Xavier Bertrand said on Thursday there should be “no restrictions” on fisheries in any future trade agreement.
“There should be no restrictions at all on French fishermen,” M Bertrand, the president of the northern Hauts-de-France region, told France Info radio, amid an ongoing dispute over EU access to British waters following the UK’s departure from the bloc last week. “We must speak a clearer and stricter language to our British friends by telling them this: if we can’t fish in your waters, you can’t fish in ours,” he warned. French fishermen regained access to waters around Guernsey on Wednesday, after a controversial five-day fishing ban triggered by post-Brexit administrative changes. The agreement on water access to Guernsey coasts, one of the Channel Islands situated near the French coast of Normandy, was based on a European fisheries treaty that expired automatically with Brexit.
Castle Cornet with Sark beyond, St Peter Port, Guernsey
The spat started after authorities in Guernsey, a Crown dependency unilaterally decided to install a system whereby boats would need to get individual authorisations to enter the waters 6 to twelve miles off its coasts. London and Brussels now need to negotiate a post-divorce trade agreement but for now, the relationship is a business-as-usual transition period until the end of this year, meaning that French fishermen would retain access to British waters and vice versa. M Bertrand continued: “If we want an intelligent deal, one that is mutually beneficial, then we need to be firm. We must tell the British that fisheries is a central concern in post-Brexit negotiations.” The European Union will link any access to its markets for British products directly to the access that EU boats will be given to UK waters, the bloc’s chief negotiator warned on Monday.
Emmanuel Macron wants French fishermen to have access to British waters
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Michel Barnier underlined the difficulties of the upcoming trade negotiations with Britain when he highlighted the small but symbolic fisheries industry. He told France Inter radio that “there will be no trade deal with the British if there is no reciprocal access for our fishermen”. He said: “We will negotiate access to the British territorial waters for European fishermen at the same time that we negotiate access to European markets for British fisheries products. I hope I make myself clear.” Overall, the bloc is open to striking a zero-tariff, zero-quota trade deal with London, but only if Britain abides by EU standards on the environment, workers’ rights, tax and state aid. Prime Minister Boris Johnson, for his part, retorted there was “no need for a free trade agreement to involve accepting EU rules”.
Brexit: Michel Barnier using fishing as ‘leverage’ claims expert


thedailyexpress--2020-02-07--John Bercow’s peerage hopes in tatters – Ex-Speaker hit by new claim

Lord Lisvane , the former clerk of the House of Commons , is understood to have set out details of Mr Bercow making inappropriate remarks in an official complaint submitted to the Commissioner for Standards , the Parliamentary watchdog .
Senior allies of Lord Lisvane have confirmed that his complaint goes beyond allegations of bullying and harassment to include examples of comments made by Mr Bercow in his presence .
It is the latest in a spate of allegations to be levelled at Mr Bercow since it was reported last month that he had been nominated for a peerage by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bercow dismissed the claims as “ unadulterated rubbish ” , adding : “ As Speaker he made constant efforts to increase diversity and inclusion .
His record as a champion of gender , racial and LGBT equality speaks for itself.
” Senior Conservative sources claimed there was now “ widespread opposition ” among peers to Mr Bercow being elevated to the House of Lords .
A Whitehall source , said : “ If Jeremy Corbyn wants to nominate Labour people for a peerage , that ’ s fine .
But the ability to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minister.
” Mr Bercow is also facing bullying allegations from Lieutenant-General David Leakey – the former Black Rod .
In a break with convention , Mr Bercow was not offered a peerage by the Government upon leaving his role as Speaker .
However , he has been nominated for the honour by the outgoing Labour leader .
Lt Gen Leakey said giving him a peerage would be a “ scandal ” due to his behaviour .
The row comes after Mr Bercow was condemned over his decision to name a number of Parliamentary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in his newly released autobiography Unspeakable .
Two of those named were senior officials who he is alleged to have bullied , one of whom has never chosen to speak out against him publicly .
Mr Bercow categorically rejected the suggestion that he had bullied the pair and had only become aware of the allegations when media reports were published in 2018 .

John Bercow peerage would be a 'scandal' says David Leakey
Lord Lisvane, the former clerk of the House of Commons, is understood to have set out details of Mr Bercow making inappropriate remarks in an official complaint submitted to the Commissioner for Standards, the Parliamentary watchdog. Senior allies of Lord Lisvane have confirmed that his complaint goes beyond allegations of bullying and harassment to include examples of comments made by Mr Bercow in his presence.
It is the latest in a spate of allegations to be levelled at Mr Bercow since it was reported last month that he had been nominated for a peerage by Jeremy Corbyn. A spokesman for Mr Bercow dismissed the claims as “unadulterated rubbish”, adding: “As Speaker he made constant efforts to increase diversity and inclusion. His record as a champion of gender, racial and LGBT equality speaks for itself.” Senior Conservative sources claimed there was now “widespread opposition” among peers to Mr Bercow being elevated to the House of Lords.
John Bercow is the only Speaker to not get a peerage – even 'Gorbals Mick' Martin got one
It was reported last month that Bercow had been nominated for a peerage by Jeremy Corbyn
A Whitehall source, said: “If Jeremy Corbyn wants to nominate Labour people for a peerage, that’s fine. But the ability to nominate a cross-bencher remains with the Prime Minister.” Mr Bercow is also facing bullying allegations from Lieutenant-General David Leakey – the former Black Rod. In a break with convention, Mr Bercow was not offered a peerage by the Government upon leaving his role as Speaker. However, he has been nominated for the honour by the outgoing Labour leader. Lt Gen Leakey said giving him a peerage would be a “scandal” due to his behaviour.
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-07--Brexit LIVE: ‘What part of sovereignty don’t you get!’ Verhofstadt mocked for EU plan

One said : “ What part of Nationhood & Sovereignty does n't this puppet grasp ?
Has the EU Collective bothered to do any research into why the UK voted to leave , or is the Myth Maker in Chief going to continue to spout hearsay unchallenged ?
” Another commented : “ Wow .
Your answer is always ‘ More EU .
More control.
’ It wo n't be long until you 're facing more independence referendums.
” A third wrote : “ Strengthen and deepen EU citizenship ?
Kind of sounds like you 're about to make a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in ?
” 8.50pm update : Brexit boom - Britain can be ‘ champions of free trade ’ as Raab talks up Australia deal Dominic Raab has boasted how post-Brexit Britain wants to be “ energetic champions of free and open trade ” as he continued to ramp up negotiations with global nations for lucrative trade deals in 2020 .
The Foreign Secretary is in Australia as part of a tour of the country to promote free trade deals during what is turning out to be a crucial year after the UK left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Raab said a close relationship with the Southern Hemisphere superpower is a “ key part of the vision ” for a “ Global Britain ” .
The former Brexit Secretary wrote in a column for the Australian Financial Review the UK is “ forging ahead as a self-confident , global nation , ready to reinvigorate our ties with old friends ” .
He also described a “ deep relationship ” between the UK and Australia and even joked about their sporting rivalry , which sees the two cricketing nations clash in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
7.32pm update : Trade deal could be vetoed by ANY EU state - Boris sent warning Boris Johnson ’ s Brexit trade deal could well be scuppered thanks to a piece of EU legislation .
The EU ’ s chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier set out Brussels ’ negotiating objectives this week .
Within those objectives , he said the EU is willing to sign up to an extensive and ambitious trade deal with the UK .
The deal , however , could be set for a snag after Mr Barnier declared @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must uphold the “ partnership should uphold the precautionary principle in the Union as set out in the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union ” .
According to Politico , the reference to the treaty means all members of the European Parliament must come to a unanimous agreement .
This , therefore , allows a member state to veto the direction to which talks are proceeding to “ force Barnier into keeping every country ’ s interests in mind during the upcoming negotiations ” .
6.15pm update : Brexit trade deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hints at huge rift between Boris and Trump Boris Johnson 's post-Brexit trade deal with the US may already be under threat after American Vice President Mike Pence revealed that the UK 's decision to grant access to Huawei may be a deal breaker .
A UK trade deal with the US may already be at risk following the Government 's decision to allow Huawei access to its 5G mobile networks .
American Vice-President Mike Pence told CNBC that his administration did not `` believe '' using the Chinese firm 's assets were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' of either country .
He warned that this remains a `` real issue '' between Boris Johnson and Donald Trump , and could be a deal breaker in the future .
This follows reports of an “ apoplectic ” between the two leaders , in which Mr Trump raged at the Prime Minister for sticking to the decision .
Fewer than one in six people believe Prime Minister Boris Johnson has managed to `` get Brexit done ” .
Whilst the Prime Minister is undoubtedly experiencing a political honeymoon , with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some uncertainty remains .
A poll undertaken by Ipsos Mori showed , although ratings for Mr Johnson have soared recently , confidence in Brexit remains uncertain .
Only 15 percent believed the Prime Minister had totally delivered on his pledge to get Brexit done .
A larger 29 percent believed Mr Johnson has “ mostly ” fulfilled his promise and a significant 36 percent said “ to some extent ” he had got the job done .
Eight percent believed the Prime Minister had not fulfilled his promise at all , and nine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit .
4.10pm update : Brexit punishment clause - leaked document shows exactly how EU plan to CRIPPLE UK trade Senior members of the European Parliament have drawn up a punishment clause in order to keep Britain in lockstep with Brussels after Brexit .
The institution ’ s UK Co-ordination Group , former the Brexit Steering committee , have demanded a “ polluter pays principle ” be included as part of any future trade deal with the UK .
A leaked copy of the plan , seen by Express.co.uk , said any future @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same environmental rules as Brussels .
It suggests the UK should be forced to match European standards on climate change , as well as workers ’ rights and state aid , when the bloc updates its rulebook .
The group of influential MEPs demanded a “ a level playing field , ensuring equivalent standards in social , labour , environmental , competition and state aid policies , including through a robust and comprehensive framework on competition and state aid control ” .
3.15pm update : Scottish economy forecast to grow in 2020 - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scotland ’ s economy is forecast to grow marginally this year , but experts have warned Brexit “ remains a risk ” to the economy .
The Scottish Fiscal Commission has predicted GDP will increase by one percent this financial year , rising to 1.1 percent next year and 1.2 percent in 2022-2023 .
But the report from the SFC warned Brexit negotiations and uncertainty over the timing and nature of the UK 's departure from the EU has `` resulted in subdued growth over the last year ” .
It added now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` the unwinding of some Brexit-related uncertainty may support some additional growth ” .
But the SFC said Brexit `` remains a risk to continued economic growth '' .
2pm update : Pound set for worst week since December election as fears grow over Brexit trade deal Sterling was headed for its worst week since the general election in December as investors priced in the risk of the UK not being able to agree a trade deal with the EU before the end of the transition period in December 2020 .
The pound @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 1.2933 , close tp its lowest level in two week .
Against the euro , which has been dragged down by a stronger dollar , sterling traded higher by 0.2 percent at 84.78 pence .
Investors fear Boris Johnson is taking a hard line in trade talks with the EU , particularly after e said Britain will not obey the bloc ’ s regulations .
Marshall Gittler , head of investment research for BDSwiss Group , said : “ I expect that the post-Brexit trade negotiations will continue to weigh on Britain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ largest current account deficits in the world.
” EU bosses are heading for an almighty showdown when they try to thrash out the bloc 's next seven-year budget after a series of meetings between European Council president Charles Michel and member state leaders .
Brexit has thrown financial planning into the turmoil with Britain ’ s departure leaving an annual hole of about €12 billion in the EU ’ s coffers and richer nations fear being strong-armed into making up the shortfall .
It leaves Mr Michel facing a stand-off between members states @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the EU ’ s coffers broadly at current levels despite Brexit and those who think the bloc needs to invest much more .
At least 18 individual meeting with EU leaders were scheduled this week which Mr Michel called in the hope of trying to forge a compromise between the opposing factions .
Author and historian Tom Holland has highlighting the “ big problem ” Remainers face following the UK ’ s departure from the EU last month .
Retweeting an article from American magazine The Atlantic on whether Britain will rejoin the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very good analysis of the big problem that erstwhile Remainers hoping the UK will rejoin the EU now face : they have to hope , if we are to rejoin the EU , that the country will implode economically & constitutionally .
And that 's not a great look ... “ I would also have thought it was by no means a given that the EU would want back a country as divided as the UK would inevitably be over the issue of its membership.
” 8.45am update : Former Brexit Party MEP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our country 's history ’ “ Estimates are that cutting tariffs and striking trade deals with countries around the globe will save £8.3 billion .
“ The world 's a big place when you look beyond your doorstep .
An exciting period in our country 's history is just beginning !
”

Brexit: British fishing grounds are for British boats says Johnson
The EU chief tweeted: “28 years ago we created 'European Citizenship'. Now the EU must move forward again. Brexit has shown us that a key reform should be to strengthened & deepen EU citizenship. #IamEuropean.” But the post promoted a backlash from some Twitter users.
One said: “What part of Nationhood & Sovereignty doesn't this puppet grasp? Has the EU Collective bothered to do any research into why the UK voted to leave, or is the Myth Maker in Chief going to continue to spout hearsay unchallenged?” Another commented: “Wow. Your answer is always ‘More EU. More control.’ It won't be long until you're facing more independence referendums.” A third wrote: “Strengthen and deepen EU citizenship? Kind of sounds like you're about to make a no-take-backs clause. Gonna lock everyone in?” FOLLOW BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES:
Guy Verhofstadt has been mocked for tweeting about his EU plans
8.50pm update: Brexit boom - Britain can be ‘champions of free trade’ as Raab talks up Australia deal Dominic Raab has boasted how post-Brexit Britain wants to be “energetic champions of free and open trade” as he continued to ramp up negotiations with global nations for lucrative trade deals in 2020. The Foreign Secretary is in Australia as part of a tour of the country to promote free trade deals during what is turning out to be a crucial year after the UK left the European Union on January 31. Mr Raab said a close relationship with the Southern Hemisphere superpower is a “key part of the vision” for a “Global Britain”. The former Brexit Secretary wrote in a column for the Australian Financial Review the UK is “forging ahead as a self-confident, global nation, ready to reinvigorate our ties with old friends”. He also described a “deep relationship” between the UK and Australia and even joked about their sporting rivalry, which sees the two cricketing nations clash in the Ashes at least once every two years.
Dominic Raab said post-Brexit Britain wants to be "energetic champions of free and open trade"
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7.32pm update: Trade deal could be vetoed by ANY EU state - Boris sent warning Boris Johnson’s Brexit trade deal could well be scuppered thanks to a piece of EU legislation. The EU’s chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier set out Brussels’ negotiating objectives this week. Within those objectives, he said the EU is willing to sign up to an extensive and ambitious trade deal with the UK. The deal, however, could be set for a snag after Mr Barnier declared within the objectives that the future agreement must uphold the “partnership should uphold the precautionary principle in the Union as set out in the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union”. According to Politico, the reference to the treaty means all members of the European Parliament must come to a unanimous agreement. This, therefore, allows a member state to veto the direction to which talks are proceeding to “force Barnier into keeping every country’s interests in mind during the upcoming negotiations”. 6.15pm update: Brexit trade deal with US at risk - Mike Pence hints at huge rift between Boris and Trump Boris Johnson's post-Brexit trade deal with the US may already be under threat after American Vice President Mike Pence revealed that the UK's decision to grant access to Huawei may be a deal breaker. A UK trade deal with the US may already be at risk following the Government's decision to allow Huawei access to its 5G mobile networks. American Vice-President Mike Pence told CNBC that his administration did not "believe" using the Chinese firm's assets were in the "security or privacy interests" of either country. He warned that this remains a "real issue" between Boris Johnson and Donald Trump, and could be a deal breaker in the future. This follows reports of an “apoplectic” between the two leaders, in which Mr Trump raged at the Prime Minister for sticking to the decision.
There could be a rift brewing between Donald Trump and Boris Johnson
5.40pm update: Boris Johnson faces growing concern over Brexit - shock poll Fewer than one in six people believe Prime Minister Boris Johnson has managed to "get Brexit done”. Whilst the Prime Minister is undoubtedly experiencing a political honeymoon, with a surge of popularity after Brexit Day, some uncertainty remains. A poll undertaken by Ipsos Mori showed, although ratings for Mr Johnson have soared recently, confidence in Brexit remains uncertain. Only 15 percent believed the Prime Minister had totally delivered on his pledge to get Brexit done. A larger 29 percent believed Mr Johnson has “mostly” fulfilled his promise and a significant 36 percent said “to some extent” he had got the job done. Eight percent believed the Prime Minister had not fulfilled his promise at all, and nine percent said he “hardly’ achieved Brexit. 4.10pm update: Brexit punishment clause - leaked document shows exactly how EU plan to CRIPPLE UK trade Senior members of the European Parliament have drawn up a punishment clause in order to keep Britain in lockstep with Brussels after Brexit. The institution’s UK Co-ordination Group, former the Brexit Steering committee, have demanded a “polluter pays principle” be included as part of any future trade deal with the UK. A leaked copy of the plan, seen by Express.co.uk, said any future Government should be required to maintain the same environmental rules as Brussels. It suggests the UK should be forced to match European standards on climate change, as well as workers’ rights and state aid, when the bloc updates its rulebook. The group of influential MEPs demanded a “a level playing field, ensuring equivalent standards in social, labour, environmental, competition and state aid policies, including through a robust and comprehensive framework on competition and state aid control”.
British voters are unconvinced Boris Johnson has managed to 'get Brexit done'
3.15pm update: Scottish economy forecast to grow in 2020 - but Brexit ‘remains a risk’ Scotland’s economy is forecast to grow marginally this year, but experts have warned Brexit “remains a risk” to the economy. The Scottish Fiscal Commission has predicted GDP will increase by one percent this financial year, rising to 1.1 percent next year and 1.2 percent in 2022-2023. But the report from the SFC warned Brexit negotiations and uncertainty over the timing and nature of the UK's departure from the EU has "resulted in subdued growth over the last year”. It added now the UK has left the EU, "the unwinding of some Brexit-related uncertainty may support some additional growth”. But the SFC said Brexit "remains a risk to continued economic growth". 2pm update: Pound set for worst week since December election as fears grow over Brexit trade deal Sterling was headed for its worst week since the general election in December as investors priced in the risk of the UK not being able to agree a trade deal with the EU before the end of the transition period in December 2020. The pound was flat against the US dollar at $1.2933, close tp its lowest level in two week. Against the euro, which has been dragged down by a stronger dollar, sterling traded higher by 0.2 percent at 84.78 pence. Investors fear Boris Johnson is taking a hard line in trade talks with the EU, particularly after e said Britain will not obey the bloc’s regulations. Marshall Gittler, head of investment research for BDSwiss Group, said: “I expect that the post-Brexit trade negotiations will continue to weigh on Britain, a country with one of the largest current account deficits in the world.”
Scotland's economy growing, but Brexit 'remains a risk'
Paul Withers taking over live reporting from Katie Harris. 1.10pm update: France demands UK follows EU rules FOREVER Emmanuel Macron has told the European Commission that the UK must be tied to EU rules forever in return for a post-Brexit free trade deal, according to reports. France is demanding Britain agrees to “dynamic alignment” with Brussels for areas including tax, state aid, environment and social. An EU diplomat told The Telegraph: “France wants dynamic alignment across the board.” 12.05pm update: UK names new ambassador to US Dame Karen Pierce has been named as the UK’s new ambassador to the US, replacing Sir Kim Darroch who resigned last year over leaked emails. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said: "It is a time of huge opportunity for the friendship between the UK and US and I am delighted that Karen Pierce will take forward this exciting new chapter in our relationship.” It comes ahead of post-Brexit trade talks between the UK and the US, as Britain strikes its own path outside of the EU.
Emmanuel Macron wants the UK to be tied to EU rules forever in return for a post-Brexit trade deal
11am update: Brussels divided over Brexit budget - 18 urgent meetings held EU bosses are heading for an almighty showdown when they try to thrash out the bloc's next seven-year budget after a series of meetings between European Council president Charles Michel and member state leaders. Brexit has thrown financial planning into the turmoil with Britain’s departure leaving an annual hole of about €12 billion in the EU’s coffers and richer nations fear being strong-armed into making up the shortfall. It leaves Mr Michel facing a stand-off between members states that want to keep their contribution to the EU’s coffers broadly at current levels despite Brexit and those who think the bloc needs to invest much more. At least 18 individual meeting with EU leaders were scheduled this week which Mr Michel called in the hope of trying to forge a compromise between the opposing factions.
Rupert Lowe hailed the start of an “exciting period in our country's history”
9.30am update: Author highlights ‘big problem’ Remainers face Author and historian Tom Holland has highlighting the “big problem” Remainers face following the UK’s departure from the EU last month. Retweeting an article from American magazine The Atlantic on whether Britain will rejoin the bloc, he said: “A very good analysis of the big problem that erstwhile Remainers hoping the UK will rejoin the EU now face: they have to hope, if we are to rejoin the EU, that the country will implode economically & constitutionally. And that's not a great look... “I would also have thought it was by no means a given that the EU would want back a country as divided as the UK would inevitably be over the issue of its membership.”
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-07--Brexit boom: Britain can be ‘champions of free trade’ as Raab talks up Australia deal

The Foreign Secretary is in Australia as part of a tour of the country to promote free trade deals during what is turning out to be a crucial year after the UK left the European Union on January 31 .
Dominic Raab said a close relationship with the Southern Hemisphere superpower is a “ key part of the vision ” for a “ Global Britain ” .
The former Brexit Secretary wrote in a column for the Australian Financial Review the UK is “ forging ahead as a self-confident , global nation , ready to reinvigorate our ties with old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ deep relationship ” between the UK and Australia and even joked about their sporting rivalry , which sees the two cricketing nations clash in the Ashes at least once every two years .
Mr Raab also outlined why Britain wants to be “ energetic champions of free and open trade ” following Brexit .
The former Brexit Secretary wrote : “ On my first trip following our departure from the EU , I ’ m proud to be in Australia , one of the UK ’ s greatest partners and closest allies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relationship in the real rapport between our people , our vibrant cultural links , our world-leading educational exchanges , and our ( mostly ! )
friendly sporting rivalry .
“ We want to be energetic champions of free and open trade , so we can boost small businesses , cut the cost of living , reduce barriers and create the well-paid jobs of the future for the next generation of Australians and Britons.
” Trade between the UK and Australia was worth a huge £18.3billion in 2019 .
Speaking ahead of his trip @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK had “ a multi-billion-pound trade relationship with investment in both directions , supporting jobs and growth in both economies ” .
Speaking on the BBC ’ s Politics Live programme in October , former Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard said : “ I do worry that people are starting to imagine that a trade deal with Australia is somehow a substitute for being on the doorstep of a market with 500 million people .
It ’ s not.
” Mr Raab will also visit Japan , Singapore and Malaysia over the coming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conclude quick trade deals with Australia , New Zealand , Japan and the US following its departure from the EU .
But there are now fears a bumper deal between the UK and US is under threat after reports suggested rising tensions between Boris Johnson and Donald Trump .
DO N'T MISS Liam Fox reveals big ‘ leverage ’ UK can use against EU [ COMMENT ] Brexit news : How Britain could end up BACK in the EU - revealed [ ANALYSIS ] Boris Johnson wobble : PM faces growing concern over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was “ apoplectic ” with fury after Mr Johnson allowed Chinese technology firm Huawei into non-central elements of Britain ’ s 5G network , a Westminster source has revealed .
British officials said they were “ taken aback by the force of the President ’ s language ” in a phone call made to the Prime Minister last week , according to reports from the Financial Times .
In a separate report from The Evening Standard , it was claimed Mr Trump slammed the phone down on Mr Johnson in anger .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ described as “ very difficult ” by another senior official .

Brexit: Dominic Raab outlines Australia trade deal plans
The Foreign Secretary is in Australia as part of a tour of the country to promote free trade deals during what is turning out to be a crucial year after the UK left the European Union on January 31. Dominic Raab said a close relationship with the Southern Hemisphere superpower is a “key part of the vision” for a “Global Britain”. The former Brexit Secretary wrote in a column for the Australian Financial Review the UK is “forging ahead as a self-confident, global nation, ready to reinvigorate our ties with old friends”.
He also described a “deep relationship” between the UK and Australia and even joked about their sporting rivalry, which sees the two cricketing nations clash in the Ashes at least once every two years. Mr Raab also outlined why Britain wants to be “energetic champions of free and open trade” following Brexit. The former Brexit Secretary wrote: “On my first trip following our departure from the EU, I’m proud to be in Australia, one of the UK’s greatest partners and closest allies. “You can see our deep relationship in the real rapport between our people, our vibrant cultural links, our world-leading educational exchanges, and our (mostly!) friendly sporting rivalry.
Brexit news: Dominic Raab said post-Brexit Britain wants to be 'energetic champions of free trade'
Brexit news: Dominic Raab met Australian counterpart Marise Payne
“We want to be energetic champions of free and open trade, so we can boost small businesses, cut the cost of living, reduce barriers and create the well-paid jobs of the future for the next generation of Australians and Britons.” Mr Raab met Australian counterpart Marise Payne on Thursday, describing Australia as ”a natural partner”. Trade between the UK and Australia was worth a huge £18.3billion in 2019. Speaking ahead of his trip to Australia, Mr Raab said the UK had “a multi-billion-pound trade relationship with investment in both directions, supporting jobs and growth in both economies”. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: Verhofstadt mocked for EU plan
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Brexit news: Dominic Raab plants a tree at British-Swedish multinational biopharmaceutical company AstraZeneca in Sydney
Speaking on the BBC’s Politics Live programme in October, former Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard said: “I do worry that people are starting to imagine that a trade deal with Australia is somehow a substitute for being on the doorstep of a market with 500 million people. It’s not.” Mr Raab will also visit Japan, Singapore and Malaysia over the coming days. The UK is hoping to conclude quick trade deals with Australia, New Zealand, Japan and the US following its departure from the EU. But there are now fears a bumper deal between the UK and US is under threat after reports suggested rising tensions between Boris Johnson and Donald Trump. DON'T MISS
Liam Fox reveals big ‘leverage’ UK can use against EU [COMMENT]
Brexit news: How Britain could end up BACK in the EU - revealed [ANALYSIS]
Boris Johnson wobble: PM faces growing concern over Brexit [POLL]
Brexit news: There is reported rising tension between Donald Trump and Boris Johnson
Brexit news: Mike Pence said the US is 'profoundly disappointed' with the UK's decision on Huawei
The US President was “apoplectic” with fury after Mr Johnson allowed Chinese technology firm Huawei into non-central elements of Britain’s 5G network, a Westminster source has revealed. British officials said they were “taken aback by the force of the President’s language” in a phone call made to the Prime Minister last week, according to reports from the Financial Times. In a separate report from The Evening Standard, it was claimed Mr Trump slammed the phone down on Mr Johnson in anger. The discussion between the two leaders was also described as “very difficult” by another senior official.
Brexit news: The UK left the EU on January 30 but faces a crucial year in trade deal negotiations
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-07--Macron FURY: French leader demands UK obey EU rules FORVER in return for Brexit trade deal

The young French President , 41 , demanded the European Commission to keep Britain tied to the bloc on a @ @ @ @ @ for a post-Brexit trade deal .
A diplomat told the Daily Telegraph that “ France @ @ @ @ @ board ” .
Another said “ full dynamic alignment makes sense ” as an “ @ @ @ @ @ talks .
Liam Fox reveals big ‘ leverage ’ UK can use against EU Mr @ @ @ @ @ when the EU upgrades its own rules the UK follows suit .
The French man @ @ @ @ @ those of the European Parliament ’ s EU-UK coordinating group , which is also calling @ @ @ @ @ .
A leaked document from the group was found to request Boris Johnson take down @ @ @ @ @ on workers ’ rights , environmental protections and state aid .
The group said the @ @ @ @ @ with a “ level playing field ” in words that echoed EU chief negotiator Michel @ @ @ @ @ “ Our free-trade agreement must include an agreement on fisheries .

Paris: Streets littered with rubbish as companies protest
The young French President, 41, demanded the European Commission to keep Britain tied to the bloc on a selection of matters in return for a post-Brexit trade deal. A diplomat told the Daily Telegraph that “France wants dynamic alignment across the board”. Another said “full dynamic alignment makes sense” as an “opening bid” in trade talks.
Mr Macron has also demanded that when the EU upgrades its own rules the UK follows suit. The French man’s brazen orders echo those of the European Parliament’s EU-UK coordinating group, which is also calling for “dynamic alignment”. A leaked document from the group was found to request Boris Johnson take down Britain’s red tape on workers’ rights, environmental protections and state aid. The group said the UK should provide the EU with a “level playing field” in words that echoed EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier. He said: “Our free-trade agreement must include an agreement on fisheries.
Macron has infuriated Britons by demanding the UK obeys EU rules
He demanded the European Commission to keep Britain tied to the bloc
“This agreement should provide reciprocal access to markets and waters, which contains quota shares.” A negotiation document, published ahead of formal talks, reads: “The envisaged partnership should include, in its economic part, provisions on fisheries setting out a framework for the management of shared fish stocks, as well as the conditions on access to waters and resources.” Since Brexit Day, the row over the future of UK waters has intensified with some British fishermen fearing their ships could be torched. There has also been speculation EU fishermen could blockade UK boats from entering key ports on the continent. Following Brexit Day, the French government accused the London Fisheries Convention of being “disrespectful” after they lost their licence to fish in Guernsey. READ NOW: German production hit with sharpest slump since 2009 financial CRASH [NEWS]
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Mr Johnson is playing hardball with EU negotiators
In order to defend against potential attacks from EU fishermen the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has lined up to two extra fishing vessels to bolster the Royal Navy’s Fishery Protection Squadron (FPS). Two more ships will help prevent unlicensed fishing while 22 others can be scrambled at short notice while a further 35 enforcement officers have also been recruited. The FPS is currently made up of four river-class patrol vessels and a helicopter. They patrol approximately 80,000 square miles of Britain in order to secure fishing rights. Mr Johnson has been put under pressure to secure British fishing rights but the EU has already begun to insist on crucial trade-offs during negotiations. DON'T MISS:
Brexit: Europe fears economic chaos as faith in EU drops post-Brexit [NEWS]
Brexit deal at risk Mike Pence hints at rift between Boris and Trump [VIDEO]
Brexiteer exposes ‘gains’ to Brits after UK dumps EU fishing policy [INSIGHT]
Brexit took place exactly one week ago
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-07--Brexit news: How Britain could end up BACK in the EU - revealed

Brexit took place last week , as the government and EU passed a Withdrawal Agreement in time to separate the @ @ @ @ @ January 31 .
The event casts officials into a year-long process of negotiation , in @ @ @ @ @ and policy agreements which will define the future UK-EU relationship .
By the end of @ @ @ @ @ the UK will separate from the EU with a lucrative trade deal and clearly defined @ @ @ @ @ government officials insist what follows is a period of “ opportunity ” , whereby the @ @ @ @ @ and investment .
However , there will still be groups of people mourning the country @ @ @ @ @ bloc .
Among them are those who grew up under EU membership , younger generations @ @ @ @ @ the UK back into the bloc .
READ MORE : Nicola Sturgeon rumbled : SNP @ @ @ @

Brexit: Johnson says UK will maintain ‘highest standards’
Brexit took place last week, as the government and EU passed a Withdrawal Agreement in time to separate the country from the bloc on January 31. The event casts officials into a year-long process of negotiation, in which they draw up trade and policy agreements which will define the future UK-EU relationship.
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By the end of 2020, the government hopes the UK will separate from the EU with a lucrative trade deal and clearly defined relationship. Boris Johnson and government officials insist what follows is a period of “opportunity”, whereby the UK should see continued growth and investment. However, there will still be groups of people mourning the country’s exit from the bloc. Among them are those who grew up under EU membership, younger generations experts believe may eventually lead the UK back into the bloc. READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon rumbled: SNP mocked over independence campaign
Emma Willis husband: The Voice host opens up on jealousy over husband’s ‘stunning’ fans
Brexit news: Young people could shift the country back towards EU membership
READ MORE Lord Owen blames McDonnell NOT Corbyn for Labour’s embarrassing defeat Professor Alex de Ruyter of Birmingham City University’s Centre for Brexit Studies told Express.co.uk “internationalised” young people would hope to re-enter the EU on the back of a “generational shift”. However, he added a future re-entry would mean the UK has to concede due to a “weaker position”. When asked if the country could one day rejoin, he said: “Yes, it could – and senior EU figures have expressed as much in extending such a welcome in future. “Demographically, younger people are more internationalised and pro-EU in their outlook so as we continue to see a generational shift over the next decade that a future UK Government might do this – especially if we end up with a trade agreement with the EU that keeps the UK closely tied to EU regulatory standards.”
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Brexit news: Emmanuel Macron wants to keep the EU within EU rules
“In that situation, why would you abide by the rules but have no say in how they are made if you could be a full member of the EU club, with full voting powers? “That said, the EU might try to make future membership conditional on joining the Euro, joining the Schengen common visa area and not granting any kind of budget rebate. “Given that the UK would then be applying from a weakened position, I could not see it extracting these kinds of concessions in future.” In the immediate aftermath of Brexit, European leaders have called for the UK to stay closely aligned with the EU’s laws rather than aim for full autonomy. DON'T MISS EU civil war: Brussels divided over Brexit budget - ANALYSIS
Boris delays crucial US trade talk trip after Trump made furious call - INSIGHT
Leaked document shows how EU could punish UK for breaking rules - INSIGHT
Brexit news: Michel Barnier reminded Boris Johnson to stick to his "very important" declaration
READ MORE Brexit boost: How expert blasted ‘defeatist attitude’ over trade deals Emmanuel Macron told the European Commission it must tie the UK to EU rules forever as transition talks continue. According to the Daily Telegraph, France wants to toughen the EU’s negotiating mandate and have the UK agree to “dynamic alignment”. The process would mean the country stays closely aligned with the bloc when it comes to rules for tax, state aid, the environment and social standards. Britain would then have to change its rules to mirror Brussels’ as they shift.


thedailyexpress--2020-02-07--Brexit mistake: German minister admits EU in wrong - ‘Brexit will be success’

Lucia Puttrich , the Minister of Europe for German state Hesse , urged Britain to push on with negotiations in a statement .
The politician , who is from chancellor Angela Merkel ’ s CDU party said Brexit could be a “ success ” for the UK .
She said : “ I think it is quite likely that Brexit will be a success for Great Britain .
“ The EU is interested in an agreement with Great Britain .
“ But is is completely open whether the British want it too .
“ From their perspective , there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ free trade area in Great Britain.
” He believed the UK would be successful because of the influence of the English language across the globe , as well as the international orientation of the country .
The Hessian minister has significant involvement with Brexit because of the Frankfurt financial centre .
Frankfurt is a mere stone ’ s throw away from Hesse , and as of 2016 , 12 % of the population of Hesse lived in the the city .
Ms Puttrich added : “ The British have always been very satisfied @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are no direct neighbours and the security situation is also more relaxed .
READ MORE : Pound Sterling to rocket in next year thanks to trade deal - survey “ There is no other place in the EU like it , especially not in Eastern Europe.
” Britain exited the European bloc on January 31 after three and a half years of negotiations .
Political commentator Iain Dale has said the UK is in a “ strong position ” for negotiations with the European Union because the country is “ absolutely crucial ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
DO N'T MISS Juncker 's plea to EU ignored - Brussels will stick with English [ REVEALED ] Austria ’ s Kurz threatens to veto Angela Merkel ’ s new EU budget plans [ INSIGHT ] Historian sends warning to Brussels - ‘ Brexit ripping bloc apart ! '
[ SHOCK ] He said : “ Let ’ s remember the EU sells us £90 billion a year more than we sell them .
“ That actually puts us in a strong position .
“ You look at the economies in all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Holland , Denmark , Germany and France .
“ We are absolutely crucial to their economies.
” Mr Johnson has recently set out his ideas of a trade deal with the EU .
The Prime Minister said there is “ no need ” for the UK to follow Brussels ’ rules when laying out terms of a deal .
He said : “ We have often been told that we must choose between full access to the EU market , along with accepting its rules and courts on the Norway model , or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opens up markets and avoids the full panoply of EU regulation , on the example of Canada .

Brexit: EU says date of UK's additional bill is a 'coincidence'
Lucia Puttrich, the Minister of Europe for German state Hesse, urged Britain to push on with negotiations in a statement. The politician, who is from chancellor Angela Merkel’s CDU party said Brexit could be a “success” for the UK. She said: “I think it is quite likely that Brexit will be a success for Great Britain.
“The EU is interested in an agreement with Great Britain. “But is is completely open whether the British want it too. “From their perspective, there is a lot to be said for a free trade area in Great Britain.” He believed the UK would be successful because of the influence of the English language across the globe, as well as the international orientation of the country.
An EU minister said Brexit was likely to be a success for Britain
The Prime Minister promised to get Brexit done
The Hessian minister has significant involvement with Brexit because of the Frankfurt financial centre. Frankfurt is a mere stone’s throw away from Hesse, and as of 2016, 12% of the population of Hesse lived in the the city. Ms Puttrich added: “The British have always been very satisfied with their island location. “There are no direct neighbours and the security situation is also more relaxed. READ MORE: Pound Sterling to rocket in next year thanks to trade deal - survey
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The Prime Minister hopes to make a series of trade deals
Ms Puttrich said it would be up to the EU and UK to decide the success of Brexit
Mr Johnson will sit down to talks with the EU on a deal
He said: “Let’s remember the EU sells us £90 billion a year more than we sell them. “That actually puts us in a strong position. “You look at the economies in all the Northern European states: Belgium, Holland, Denmark, Germany and France. “We are absolutely crucial to their economies.” Mr Johnson has recently set out his ideas of a trade deal with the EU.
Pound struggles against the euro amid EU trade talks
The Prime Minister said there is “no need” for the UK to follow Brussels’ rules when laying out terms of a deal. He said: “We have often been told that we must choose between full access to the EU market, along with accepting its rules and courts on the Norway model, or an ambitious free trade agreement, which opens up markets and avoids the full panoply of EU regulation, on the example of Canada.
The Prime Minister has vowed to unleash Britain's potential
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-07--Labour activists baffling claim Long-Bailey will WIN contest because people at work say so

Trade Unionist and Rebecca Long-Bailey backer Lauren Townsend was shocked to hear journalists say Sir Keir Starmer was the expected victor of the Labour Party leadership contest .
Townsend , who is a Labour councillor for Milton Keynes , strongly believed that Rebecca Long-Bailey was the only contender likely to be elected Labour leader .
Sir Keir Starmer was the first labour leadership contender to reach the final ballot paper last month .
He has since been joined by Salford MP Rebecca Long-Bailey as well as Wigan MP Lisa Nandy .
Townsend bizarrely said : “ I just find the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ popular and most electable baffling .
“ It might be what you think you are hearing but it is not what I hear when I am out.
” Financial Times Whitehall correspondent Seb Payne calmly informed Ms Townsend that this is what the opinion polls were saying .
The Rebecca Long-Bailey backer Townsend interrupted and said : “ I just don ’ t know what is meant by electable.
” READ MORE : Lord Owen blames McDonnell NOT Corbyn for Labour ’ s embarrassing defeat Fellow panelist and CEO of Thinktank Demos , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situation to the left-wing activist .
Mackenzie added : “ Polling methodology is questionable but Keir Starmer is so far ahead in polls that there would have to be a very serious methodological error for that not to be an indication that he is more popular among the membership .
“ The evidence is that more Labour members seem to be moving towards Keir Starmer.
” Townsend was also attacked by Conservative activist Tosin Adebayo .
She asked Townsend : “ When you meet people on the doorstep do you get the sense @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one to beat Boris Johnson ? ''
Townsend replied : “ To be perfectly honest on the doorsteps of Milton Keynes they don ’ t care about Labour leadership.
” Things only got worse for the Labour activist when host Adam Fleming asked how she knew who people would want to become the leader .
To this , she responded : “ Well from talking to the people through work and stuff who are a bit more politically engaged .
But I assure you when I knock on houses of people in my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ engaged . ''
DO N'T MISS : Rebecca Long-Bailey mocked for new campaign video [ VIDEO ] Rebecca Long-Bailey stuns Iain Dale in bizarre Labour leadership call [ INSIGHT ] Naga Munchetty savages Long-Bailey saying Labour can WIN election [ ANALYSIS ] Earlier today , Ms Long-Bailey sought to defend Mr Corbyn ’ s General Election manifesto and the party ’ s embarrassing defeat .
The Labour frontbencher claimed her party 's mistake at the latest election was that of announcing too many policies at once , confusing voters on the party 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ I think what we saw in this election was a lot of confusion , we were announcing policies every day and even myself as a shadow cabinet member found it quite difficult to keep up with the number of things that were being announced.
” It comes after Mr Corbyn appeared to throw his support behind Ms Long-Bailey at a left-wing event .

Labour leadership: Long-Bailey’s popularity defended by activist
Trade Unionist and Rebecca Long-Bailey backer Lauren Townsend was shocked to hear journalists say Sir Keir Starmer was the expected victor of the Labour Party leadership contest. Townsend, who is a Labour councillor for Milton Keynes, strongly believed that Rebecca Long-Bailey was the only contender likely to be elected Labour leader. Sir Keir Starmer was the first labour leadership contender to reach the final ballot paper last month. He has since been joined by Salford MP Rebecca Long-Bailey as well as Wigan MP Lisa Nandy.
Townsend bizarrely said: “I just find the idea that Keir Starmer is the most popular and most electable baffling. “It might be what you think you are hearing but it is not what I hear when I am out.” Financial Times Whitehall correspondent Seb Payne calmly informed Ms Townsend that this is what the opinion polls were saying. The Rebecca Long-Bailey backer Townsend interrupted and said: “I just don’t know what is meant by electable.” READ MORE: Lord Owen blames McDonnell NOT Corbyn for Labour’s embarrassing defeat
Rebecca Long-Bailey fan Townsend clashed with journalists
The Rebecca Long-Bailey supporter shocked the panel
Fellow panelist and CEO of Thinktank Demos, Polly Mackenzie, attempted to explain the situation to the left-wing activist. Mackenzie added: “Polling methodology is questionable but Keir Starmer is so far ahead in polls that there would have to be a very serious methodological error for that not to be an indication that he is more popular among the membership. “The evidence is that more Labour members seem to be moving towards Keir Starmer.” Townsend was also attacked by Conservative activist Tosin Adebayo.
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Lauren Townsend was called out by Seb Payne and Polly Mackkenzie
She asked Townsend: “When you meet people on the doorstep do you get the sense that people think Rebecca Long-Bailey is the one to beat Boris Johnson?" Townsend replied: “To be perfectly honest on the doorsteps of Milton Keynes they don’t care about Labour leadership.” Things only got worse for the Labour activist when host Adam Fleming asked how she knew who people would want to become the leader. To this, she responded: “Well from talking to the people through work and stuff who are a bit more politically engaged. But I assure you when I knock on houses of people in my estate, they are not that politically engaged." DON'T MISS:
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-09--Farage fears UK has 'shot itself in the foot' issuing grave warning to Boris over US ties

Nigel Farage has warned Boris Johnson about the damage that may have been done to the UK ’ s relationship with the US after the Prime Minister gave the green light to Chinese technology firm Huawei into non-central elements of Britain ’ s 5G network .
US President Donald Trump is thought to have been “ apoplectic ” with fury at the Prime Minister during a phone conversation , a Westminster source has revealed .
Mr Farage has warned the UK may have “ shot itself in the foot ” with the damage done to Britain ’ s special relationship @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Mr Johnson .
It comes just days after the UK officially left the European Union on January 31 - with Britain hoping to soon secure a new trading relationship with the United States .
Writing in the Daily Telegraph , Mr Farage explained how he travelled to the US to meet with the President just days after Britain officially left the Brussels bloc .
The former MEP insisted Mr Trump “ genuinely likes Boris Johnson and is the most pro-British President for years ” .
But , due to the issue of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ At the very moment when the special relationship should be going into overdrive , I fear that we could soon see it going into reverse ” .
Mr Farage added that he “ was shocked at the strength of feeling I encountered from the many Congressmen and Senators that I met ” over Huawei .
He wrote : “ Worse still is the potential impact on a UK/US trade dal as a result of this inexplicable tie-up with Huawei .
“ A quick negotiation with America would significantly help our ability to talk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been missed ?
” He added : “ During my time in Washington this week I was left in doubt that all technology-based projects and services will now be removed from any UK/US deal .
READ MORE : Farage exposes link between Brexit and Trump impeachment acquittal “ Senior Republican senators have told me they see it as extremely unlikely that such deals would pass Congress given the deep distrust of Huawei .
“ At the very moment when we should be making great progress , it seems we have shot ourselves in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urging the Prime Minister to “ suspend the Huawei decision straight away ” .
He wrote : “ Otherwise , irreparable damage may be done to the special relationship at this crucial moment in our nation ’ s history.
” DO N'T MISS : Irish election : Why a 'United Ireland ’ would automatically rejoin EU [ INSIGHT ] ‘ Trade wars are good !
’ How Donald Trump infuriated EU with tariff hike [ REVEALED ] Italy MEP reveals von der Leyen ’ s SHOCK reaction to Brexit speech [ VIDEO ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the US over a future trading relationship start from February .
Mr Johnson said it was “ epically likely ” the UK would be able to strike a comprehensive trade deal with the EU by the end of the transition period , at the end of the year .
However , Mr Johnson also warned , “ you always have to budget for a complete failure of common sense ” .
Mr Trump has repeatedly said the UK would be able to secure a trade deal very quickly with America after Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , US Vice President Mike Pence was asked about the Huawei issue .
He told CNBC : `` I think the President 's been very clear .

Nigel Farage recalls gifting Trump a Brexit 50p coin
Nigel Farage has warned Boris Johnson about the damage that may have been done to the UK’s relationship with the US after the Prime Minister gave the green light to Chinese technology firm Huawei into non-central elements of Britain’s 5G network. US President Donald Trump is thought to have been “apoplectic” with fury at the Prime Minister during a phone conversation, a Westminster source has revealed. Mr Farage has warned the UK may have “shot itself in the foot” with the damage done to Britain’s special relationship with the US after the controversial decision from Mr Johnson.
It comes just days after the UK officially left the European Union on January 31 - with Britain hoping to soon secure a new trading relationship with the United States. Writing in the Daily Telegraph, Mr Farage explained how he travelled to the US to meet with the President just days after Britain officially left the Brussels bloc. The former MEP insisted Mr Trump “genuinely likes Boris Johnson and is the most pro-British President for years”. But, due to the issue of Huawei, Mr Farage said: “At the very moment when the special relationship should be going into overdrive, I fear that we could soon see it going into reverse”.
Nigel Farage issued a warning to Boris Johnson
Donald Trump is thought to have clashed with Boris Johnson on the phone
Mr Farage added that he “was shocked at the strength of feeling I encountered from the many Congressmen and Senators that I met” over Huawei. He wrote: “Worse still is the potential impact on a UK/US trade dal as a result of this inexplicable tie-up with Huawei. “A quick negotiation with America would significantly help our ability to talk terms with Brussels. Has this trick been missed?” He added: “During my time in Washington this week I was left in doubt that all technology-based projects and services will now be removed from any UK/US deal. READ MORE: Farage exposes link between Brexit and Trump impeachment acquittal
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Donald Trump is thought to be angry over the issue of Huawei
“Senior Republican senators have told me they see it as extremely unlikely that such deals would pass Congress given the deep distrust of Huawei. “At the very moment when we should be making great progress, it seems we have shot ourselves in the foot.” Mr Farage finished by urging the Prime Minister to “suspend the Huawei decision straight away”. He wrote: “Otherwise, irreparable damage may be done to the special relationship at this crucial moment in our nation’s history.” DON'T MISS:
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Donald Trump said the UK would be able to secure a trade deal with the US post-Brexit
Nigel Farage met with US President Donald Trump last week
The UK is thought to see discussions with the US over a future trading relationship start from February. Mr Johnson said it was “epically likely” the UK would be able to strike a comprehensive trade deal with the EU by the end of the transition period, at the end of the year. However, Mr Johnson also warned, “you always have to budget for a complete failure of common sense”.
Which countries have banned Huawei?
Mr Trump has repeatedly said the UK would be able to secure a trade deal very quickly with America after Brexit was completed. But, on Friday, US Vice President Mike Pence was asked about the Huawei issue. He told CNBC: "I think the President's been very clear.
The UK officially left the EU on January 31
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-09--Varadkar HUMILIATED: Poll disaster may spell end, says expert 'Very difficult for Leo'

And Sinn Fein 's surge is likely to crank up pressure to call a referendum to consider the question of a united Ireland , Ray Bassett , who has served as Irish Ambassador to Canada , Jamaica and the Bahamas , has predicted , while adding that Taoiseach Mr Varadkar was paying the price for his attempt to delay the election .
Exit polls put Fine Gael on 22.4 percent , with Fianna Fail on 22.3 percent and Sinn Fein on 22.2 percent .
Mr Varadkar has even been beaten in his own Dublin West constituency , where Paul Donnelly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Mr Varadkar 's 20 percent .
Mr Bassett told Express.co.uk : `` The initial indications are that the exit poll results are fairly accurate .
`` The results are very poor for Leo who will find it very difficult to stay as Taoiseach .
`` They are also disappointing for Fianna Fail who are down on the 2016 .
`` The Sinn Fein vote represents a more nationalist shift and no doubt will increase pressure for a border poll .
Mr Bassett also said Sinn Fein 's strong performance was unlikely to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` Incidentally , Sinn Fein are euro-critical and oppose any further transfer of powers to Brussels . ''
With counting ongoing , if the numbers are confirmed by the actual result , it would mark a major realignment for Irish politics - as well as a humiliating defeat for Mr Varadkar .
JUST IN : Varadkar on the brink : Sinn Fein top poll in PM constituency '' The Proportional Representation system tends to deliver a very fractured result . ''
Left-wingers Sinn Fein , which fielded just 42 candidates , is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ future negotiations , after increasing its share of the vote by 14 percent .
However , to complicate matters , both of the main parties have said they will refuse to work with the hardline republicans , who have historical links with the IRA .
Fine Gael minister Heather Humphreys told national broadcaster RTE : “ Obviously on these numbers it ’ s going to be very hard for any combination of 80 ( seats ) to be achieved , we ’ ll have to wait and see . ''
Gary Murphy , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said : “ I think it ’ s the most extraordinary exit poll in the history of state and the most extraordinary election in the history of the state because of the rise of Sinn Fein . ''
Fianna Fail has ruled out going into coalition for the first time with Fine Gael with both parties refusing to govern with Sinn Fein , the way forward is unclear .
Both Fine Gael and Fianna Fail have vowed to try and win backing from smaller parties to form what would probably be another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support of whichever major party is not directly involved .
The parties , which have broadly similar policies in respect of the economy and Brexit , have swapped power at every election since the Irish civil war in the 1920s .
Sinn Fein , now led by Mary Lou McDonald , has moved on from the long leadership of Gerry Adams , who has repeatedly denied ever having been a member of the IRA in the face of repeated allegations to the contrary .

Irish election: Sinn Fein lead the poll in Varadkar's constituency
And Sinn Fein's surge is likely to crank up pressure to call a referendum to consider the question of a united Ireland, Ray Bassett, who has served as Irish Ambassador to Canada, Jamaica and the Bahamas, has predicted, while adding that Taoiseach Mr Varadkar was paying the price for his attempt to delay the election. Exit polls put Fine Gael on 22.4 percent, with Fianna Fail on 22.3 percent and Sinn Fein on 22.2 percent. Mr Varadkar has even been beaten in his own Dublin West constituency, where Paul Donnelly took 28 percent of the votes and to Mr Varadkar's 20 percent.
The results are very poor for Leo who will find it very difficult to stay as Taoiseach Ray Bassett
Mr Bassett told Express.co.uk: "The initial indications are that the exit poll results are fairly accurate. "The results are very poor for Leo who will find it very difficult to stay as Taoiseach. "They are also disappointing for Fianna Fail who are down on the 2016. "The Sinn Fein vote represents a more nationalist shift and no doubt will increase pressure for a border poll.
The result is a humiliation for Taoiseach Leo Varadkar
Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin
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Mr Bassett also said Sinn Fein's strong performance was unlikely to be well-received in Brussels. He explained: "Incidentally, Sinn Fein are euro-critical and oppose any further transfer of powers to Brussels." With counting ongoing, if the numbers are confirmed by the actual result, it would mark a major realignment for Irish politics - as well as a humiliating defeat for Mr Varadkar. JUST IN: Varadkar on the brink: Sinn Fein top poll in PM constituency
Leo Varadkar votes yesterday
Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald pictured with predecessor Gerry Adams
Votes are being counted today
"The Proportional Representation system tends to deliver a very fractured result."
Left-wingers Sinn Fein, which fielded just 42 candidates, is likely to play a key role in future negotiations, after increasing its share of the vote by 14 percent.
However, to complicate matters, both of the main parties have said they will refuse to work with the hardline republicans, who have historical links with the IRA.
Sinn Fein's performance will boost calls for a border poll
Fine Gael minister Heather Humphreys told national broadcaster RTE: “Obviously on these numbers it’s going to be very hard for any combination of 80 (seats) to be achieved, we’ll have to wait and see." Gary Murphy, Professor of Politics at Dublin City University, said: “I think it’s the most extraordinary exit poll in the history of state and the most extraordinary election in the history of the state because of the rise of Sinn Fein." Fianna Fail has ruled out going into coalition for the first time with Fine Gael with both parties refusing to govern with Sinn Fein, the way forward is unclear.
Irish election: Leo Varadkar casts his vote in Dublin
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-09--Varadkar on the brink: Sinn Fein top poll in PM's own constituency– Irish election results

Sinn Féin ’ s TD Paul Donnelly topped the poll in the Dublin West constituency , ahead of Taoiseach , Irish prime minister , Leo Varadkar .
Elections of candidates in Ireland are by single transferable vote ( STV ) , with each constituency returning between three and five deputies , each called a Teachta Dála or TD .
This shocking turn of events has been accentuated by Sinn Féin ’ s Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire topping the polls in Cork South Central and beating Fianna Fáil leader Michéal Martin .
Mr Varadkar may not take his seat on the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all boxes open in the Cork South Central constituency , Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire has tightened his grip on his seat and the possibility of topping the poll .
Mr Ó Laoghaire has polled 7031 first preferences , almost 2,000 head of potential Taoiseach Micheál Martin on 5,084 .
In the constituency , current Tánaiste Simon Coveney has pulled 4,433 , and Fianna Fáil ’ s Michael McGrath also looks to be safe taking 4,265 .
JUST IN : Election humiliation may spell end for Varadkar , says expert 'Time to go , Leo @

Irish election: Sinn Fein lead the poll in Varadkar's constituency
Sinn Féin’s TD Paul Donnelly topped the poll in the Dublin West constituency, ahead of Taoiseach, Irish prime minister, Leo Varadkar. Elections of candidates in Ireland are by single transferable vote (STV), with each constituency returning between three and five deputies, each called a Teachta Dála or TD. This shocking turn of events has been accentuated by Sinn Féin’s Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire topping the polls in Cork South Central and beating Fianna Fáil leader Michéal Martin.
Mr Varadkar may not take his seat on the first count. With just over half of all boxes open in the Cork South Central constituency, Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire has tightened his grip on his seat and the possibility of topping the poll. Mr Ó Laoghaire has polled 7031 first preferences, almost 2,000 head of potential Taoiseach Micheál Martin on 5,084. In the constituency, current Tánaiste Simon Coveney has pulled 4,433, and Fianna Fáil’s Michael McGrath also looks to be safe taking 4,265. JUST IN: Election humiliation may spell end for Varadkar, says expert 'Time to go, Leo'
Sinn Fein has topped the polls in Leo Varadkar's constituency
Fianna Fail leader Michael Martin
Fianna Fail's Jack Chambers is on 16 percent and Mr Coppinger’s Solidarity–People Before Profit on 12 percent. Current exit polls suggest that the three main political parties have tied in first preference votes. The earliest indications from the poll suggest there is little difference between Fine Gael, Sinn Féin and Fianna Fáil. The poll was commissioned jointly by RTÉ, The Irish Times, TG4 and UCD and included sampling of 5,000 respondents at 250 polling stations. READ MORE: Break up of UK feared after Irish election but NI warned no ‘bailout’
Leo Varadkar posts his ballot
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Mary Lou McDonald the Sinn Fein leader alongside Gerry Adams
Mary Lou McDonald the Sinn Fein leader
It also suggests the Green Party secured 7.9 percent of first preference votes, followed by Labour 4.6 percent, Social Democrats 3.4 percent, Solidarity People Before Profit on 2.8 percent. Indications are that Independents took 11.2 percent of first preference votes. It now looks like there will be a protracted period of talks to form the net coalition government in Ireland. Vote counting began Sunday with analysts forecasting that some sort of coalition is inevitable.
Leo Varadkar and partner Matthew Barrett
The full results are expected in two days. Despite the closeness of the predicted result, Sinn Fein is in a weaker position than its two main rivals, because it fielded only 42 candidates for the 159 seats being contested in the 160-seat Parliament. Although, Sinn Fein might be unable to find enough left-leaning allies to form a workable government. Fine Gael and Fianna Fail, which have dominated Irish politics since independence, have shunned Sinn Fein because of its links to the Irish Republican Army, which disarmed under a peace deal.
Leo Varadkar
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-09--Brexit LIVE: 'Don't betray our fishermen!' Boris warned over Barnier's sea snatch plot

EU member states are pushing Michel Barnier to insist they have access to UK waters and “ stable ” fishing quota shares when trade talks begin with Boris Johnson .
A new draft mandate has been written after complaints from France , Belgium , Ireland and the Netherlands that the previous plans were too weak .
But Brexiteers have warned the PM over given into Mr Barnier 's plan .
An EU source told the newspaper : “ This is about fairness .
We need a mechanism where if the UK transgresses in an area where it is strong , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a sanction , then the EU can take proportionate , reciprocal action in a sector that is equally important to the UK - or vice-versa.
” Brussels will insist the entire future relationship deal – which will include trade , security and other agreements like fishing rights - should be “ embedded in an overall governance framework ” that covers “ all areas ” of cooperation , the Sunday Telegraph reports .
The EU is also plotting measures for a quick , “ cross-cutting ” dispute resolution mechanism to ensure the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal once an agreement is reached .
Brexiteer MEP Rupert Lowe has hit out at the EU 's plan over fishing rights and issued a stern warning to Boris Johnson .
Tweeting today , the former Southampton Football Club chairman , said : “ France , Belgium , Ireland and the Netherlands have all reportedly pushed Barnier to ‘ uphold ’ reciprocal fishing access - stealing our fish !
“ Boris will have to learn how to say ‘ no ’ in several different languages .
“ Can ’ t let him betray @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him !
” Boris Johnson and Priti Patel have thrashed out an Australian-style points-based immigration system plan set to com into effect from January next year .
Home Office figures suggest the new rules would cut unskilled EU migrants by about 90,000 a year , the Sunday Times .
The plans also see the minimum salary requirements slashed to £25,600 a year .
However , there will some flexibility with people on £23,000 still able to earn points .
Sir David Lidington said the Department for Exiting the European Union ( DExEU ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Cabinet Office and Number 10 ” and not a separate department .
He insisted `` it would have been possible then to come to the deal earlier '' .
The former Cabinet Office minister said : ” I think that , as is now recognised , it was a mistake to create DExEU .
`` Now , that 's not to denigrate the officials or the ministers who work there , but the fact you had then DExEU try to do things and Number 10 and the Cabinet trying to do things @ @ @ @ @ @ @ knit that together just took more energy and time than should have been necessary .
`` So in my ideal world , I would not have invented DExEU as a department.
” The EU is considering a carbon border tax which could lead to tariffs being slapped on British imports of steel , cement and aluminium The tax would target countries where the carbon emissions price is lower than in the EU and would allow the European Commission the power to impose levies on nations with a heavy carbon footprint .

Brexit: EU will make UK ‘pay a price’ for leaving says Barwell
EU member states are pushing Michel Barnier to insist they have access to UK waters and “stable” fishing quota shares when trade talks begin with Boris Johnson. A new draft mandate has been written after complaints from France, Belgium, Ireland and the Netherlands that the previous plans were too weak.
The EU is also plotting measures for a quick, “cross-cutting” dispute resolution mechanism to ensure the UK adhere to the rules of the trade deal once an agreement is reached. Brussels will insist the entire future relationship deal – which will include trade, security and other agreements like fishing rights - should be “embedded in an overall governance framework” that covers “all areas” of cooperation, the Sunday Telegraph reports. An EU source told the newspaper: “This is about fairness. We need a mechanism where if the UK transgresses in an area where it is strong, and believes it can absorb the impact of a sanction, then the EU can take proportionate, reciprocal action in a sector that is equally important to the UK - or vice-versa.” But Brexiteers have warned the PM over given into Mr Barnier's plan. FOLLOW EXPRESS.CO.UK BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES
Brexit latest: U plots revenge action plan as Brussel seeks control of UK fishing in talks
3.45pm update: Boris warned 'don't betray our fishermen!' Brexiteer MEP Rupert Lowe has hit out at the EU's plan over fishing rights and issued a stern warning to Boris Johnson. Tweeting today, the former Southampton Football Club chairman, said: “France, Belgium, Ireland and the Netherlands have all reportedly pushed Barnier to ‘uphold’ reciprocal fishing access - stealing our fish! “Boris will have to learn how to say ‘no’ in several different languages. “Can’t let him betray our fishermen like so many PMs before him!” 2.00pm update: Boris Johnson’s post-Brexit immigration plan will slash EU unskilled arrivals by 90,000 a year Boris Johnson and Priti Patel have thrashed out an Australian-style points-based immigration system plan set to com into effect from January next year. Home Office figures suggest the new rules would cut unskilled EU migrants by about 90,000 a year, the Sunday Times. The plans also see the minimum salary requirements slashed to £25,600 a year. However, there will some flexibility with people on £23,000 still able to earn points. 1.15pm update: Theresa May’s former de facto deputy claims separate Brexit department make getting a Brexit deal slower Sir David Lidington said the Department for Exiting the European Union (DExEU) should have been "an annex to the Cabinet Office and Number 10” and not a separate department. He insisted "it would have been possible then to come to the deal earlier". The former Cabinet Office minister said: ”I think that, as is now recognised, it was a mistake to create DExEU. "Now, that's not to denigrate the officials or the ministers who work there, but the fact you had then DExEU try to do things and Number 10 and the Cabinet trying to do things as well. "But trying to knit that together just took more energy and time than should have been necessary. "So in my ideal world, I would not have invented DExEU as a department.” The DExEU closed on January 31, Brexit day. 12pm update: EU considers carbon tariffs which could hit UK goods post-Brexit The EU is considering a carbon border tax which could lead to tariffs being slapped on British imports of steel, cement and aluminium The tax would target countries where the carbon emissions price is lower than in the EU and would allow the European Commission the power to impose levies on nations with a heavy carbon footprint.
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11am update: Britain heading towards a no deal Brexit says poll A BMG poll for The Independent found 42 percent of those questioned thought Boris Johnson would not strike a free trade deal with the EU by December 31 – the end of the transition period – while 40 percent said he would. 10.30am update: Labour deputy leadership candidate claims ex-Speaker John Bercow bullied by Tories and denied peerage over Brexit Speaking on Sky's Sophy Ridge On Sunday Labour MP Dawn Butler said: "I would like to know the reason why he wasn't given a peerage. I suspect it's actually to do with Brexit rather than anything else. "The other thing is due process has to happen so if you accuse somebody of bullying there has to be due process."
Brexit: Blackford grilled over SNP's fisheries trade plans