thedailyexpress--2020-10-27--Boris Johnson pledges ‘no kid will go hungry’ but resists calls for aid

But he also signalled that ministers could provide more cash in the run-up to Christmas .
Speaking at Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading , where he was launching a review into hospital food with Prue Leith , the television presenter , he said of the issue of feeding hungry kids across the country : `` We are focusing on that as we 've done very , very hard over the past few months . ''
He also praised England football star Marcus Rashford for his high-profile campaign , saying : `` I totally salute and understand where he 's coming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to focus on , the issue of holiday hunger . ''
But Mr Johnson faced more embarrassment as a Government quango backed Mr Rashford .
The Social Mobility Commission said children entitled to free school meals should continue to get food outside term time until COVID restrictions are lifted .
The PM said : `` We are going to make sure that we have no kids , no pupils in our country who go hungry this winter , certainly not as a result of Government inattention .
`` We have given huge sums @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but also specific sums for helping with meals during what was a very disruptive period . ''
He argued that raising Universal Credit benefit payments to hard off households was the best solution .
The Government has increased the benefit by around £1,000 a year for many households during the pandemic , he said , and had also handed £63million to councils to deal with the issue of `` holiday hunger '' .
He said : `` We certainly recognise there is an issue , we have been dealing with it continuously throughout @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are going to continue to deal with it ... we 're very proud of the support we 've given . ''
He added : `` I said repeatedly throughout this crisis that the Government will support people and businesses jobs and livelihood across the country .
`` We are going to continue to do that . ''
Soon afterwards , the Social Mobility Commission said : `` We urge the Government to extend free school meals during school holidays until COVID restrictions are lifted , as part of a wider move to combat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pandemic is having its greatest impact on the poorest regions in Britain , where people are already struggling to afford food for their families . ''
The commission cited research suggesting 600,000 more children were in poverty than in 2012 .
It added : `` The Government should do all it can to start reversing that trend .
It should begin by ensuring that all children are properly fed .
But it needs to go much further . ''
Up to 100 Tory backbenchers , including former ministers , are threatening to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ schools meal issue returns to the Commons in the coming weeks .
Some face a voter backlash with one Tory HQ deluged with paper plates in a stunt .
But colleagues backed Mr Johnson with Defence Secretary Ben Wallace saying the Government was `` incredibly generous '' .

Children will not go hungry says Boris Johnson
But he also signalled that ministers could provide more cash in the run-up to Christmas. Speaking at Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading, where he was launching a review into hospital food with Prue Leith, the television presenter, he said of the issue of feeding hungry kids across the country: "We are focusing on that as we've done very, very hard over the past few months."
He also praised England football star Marcus Rashford for his high-profile campaign, saying: "I totally salute and understand where he's coming from. This is something we need to focus on, the issue of holiday hunger." But Mr Johnson faced more embarrassment as a Government quango backed Mr Rashford. The Social Mobility Commission said children entitled to free school meals should continue to get food outside term time until COVID restrictions are lifted. The PM said: "We are going to make sure that we have no kids, no pupils in our country who go hungry this winter, certainly not as a result of Government inattention.
Boris Johnson launches a review into hospital food
"We have given huge sums to local councils to help them out but also specific sums for helping with meals during what was a very disruptive period." He argued that raising Universal Credit benefit payments to hard off households was the best solution. The Government has increased the benefit by around £1,000 a year for many households during the pandemic, he said, and had also handed £63million to councils to deal with the issue of "holiday hunger". He said: "We certainly recognise there is an issue, we have been dealing with it continuously throughout the period of the pandemic and we are going to continue to deal with it...we're very proud of the support we've given."
He added: "I said repeatedly throughout this crisis that the Government will support people and businesses jobs and livelihood across the country. "We are going to continue to do that." Soon afterwards, the Social Mobility Commission said: "We urge the Government to extend free school meals during school holidays until COVID restrictions are lifted, as part of a wider move to combat child poverty. "We know that the pandemic is having its greatest impact on the poorest regions in Britain, where people are already struggling to afford food for their families."
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Manchester United's Marcus Rashford
The commission cited research suggesting 600,000 more children were in poverty than in 2012. It added: "The Government should do all it can to start reversing that trend. It should begin by ensuring that all children are properly fed. But it needs to go much further." Up to 100 Tory backbenchers, including former ministers, are threatening to vote against the Government if the free schools meal issue returns to the Commons in the coming weeks. Some face a voter backlash with one Tory HQ deluged with paper plates in a stunt. But colleagues backed Mr Johnson with Defence Secretary Ben Wallace saying the Government was "incredibly generous".


thedailyexpress--2020-10-27--Brexit chaos: UK-US special relationship threatened unless Boris champions Global Britain

Former Foreign Secretary to Gordon Brown 's Government , David Miliband , argued the UK may have a difficult time maintaining the special relationship with the US .
While speaking to Channel 4 and Matt Frei , Mr Miliband argued the UK will have to show strength to match the EU 's post-Brexit .
He noted the UK should not attempt to undermine the relationship between the US and EU as the President , whoever it is , will likely side with the EU .
Mr Frei said : `` It is basically over and done with , whoever gets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Miliband replied : `` It all depends on what the British Government does .
`` If the British Government comes to the table with ideas , resources and alliances then we have got an important role to play .
`` But if we come with none of those things , I am afraid Washington will look to places where they see real power being exercised . ''
DO N'T MISS : UK praised as Euro unfairness to threaten future of bloc post-Brexit Mr Miliband highlighted the importance of Britain maintaining its prowess on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the relationship is further complicated by administrations having to deal with the issue of COVID-19 .
He said : `` The preemptive concern of a new administration , whether it be Donald Trump or Joe Biden , will be coronavirus .
`` There is an overwhelming foreign policy interest in the question of China and American relationships with that .
`` Therefore the role of the European Union as an international setter on trade as a new movement for decarbonisation is going to command real interest .
`` If the UK pits @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to separate America from it , or is seen to be undermining prized gains like the Good Friday Agreement , it will get a very clear answer from Washington . ''
Mr Miliband also argued the UK should not be panicked if it appears that Joe Biden becomes president , despite some scepticism .
EU warned of collapse - 'Northern states could form new group ' [ INSIGHT ] EU warned economic split could 'blow the whole thing up ' [ ANALYSIS ] EU split as Macron and Varadkar slam trade deal - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ INSIGHT ]

Brexit: David Miliband outlines UK-US relationship concerns
Former Foreign Secretary to Gordon Brown's Government, David Miliband, argued the UK may have a difficult time maintaining the special relationship with the US. While speaking to Channel 4 and Matt Frei, Mr Miliband argued the UK will have to show strength to match the EU's post-Brexit. He noted the UK should not attempt to undermine the relationship between the US and EU as the President, whoever it is, will likely side with the EU.
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Mr Frei said: "It is basically over and done with, whoever gets into the White House." Mr Miliband replied: "It all depends on what the British Government does. "If the British Government comes to the table with ideas, resources and alliances then we have got an important role to play. "But if we come with none of those things, I am afraid Washington will look to places where they see real power being exercised." DON'T MISS: UK praised as Euro unfairness to threaten future of bloc post-Brexit
Brexit chaos:UK-US 'special relationship' threatened unless Boris champions Brexit Britain
Brexit news: Boris Johnson has been warned to quickly make a success of Brexit to maintain the best relationship with the US post-election.
Mr Miliband highlighted the importance of Britain maintaining its prowess on the world stage post-Brexit. He added that the relationship is further complicated by administrations having to deal with the issue of COVID-19. He said: "The preemptive concern of a new administration, whether it be Donald Trump or Joe Biden, will be coronavirus. "There is an overwhelming foreign policy interest in the question of China and American relationships with that.
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Brexit news: Mr Miliband highlighted the importance of Britain maintaining its prowess on the world stage post-Brexit.
Brexit: Lamberts says talks must focus on 'major sticking point'
"Therefore the role of the European Union as an international setter on trade as a new movement for decarbonisation is going to command real interest. "If the UK pits itself against that European effort or tries to separate America from it, or is seen to be undermining prized gains like the Good Friday Agreement, it will get a very clear answer from Washington." Mr Miliband also argued the UK should not be panicked if it appears that Joe Biden becomes president, despite some scepticism. READ MORE: EU warned of collapse - 'Northern states could form new group' [INSIGHT]
EU warned economic split could 'blow the whole thing up' [ANALYSIS]
EU split as Macron and Varadkar slam trade deal - 'They lied to us!' [INSIGHT]
Brexit news: Mr Miliband also argued the UK should not be panicked if it appears that Joe Biden becomes president, despite some scepticism.


thedailyexpress--2020-10-28--Unelected Lord issues meddling warning to Boris Johnson on Scottish independence

Lord Cormack said he believed Scotland will “ almost certainly ” become independent due to `` the forces of English nationalism which seem to be a little too predominant in my party ” .
He also stressed the importance of the devolved Parliament at Holyrood , which was established in 1999 .
Addressing the House of Lords , the Tory peer and former South Staffordshire MP added : “ I was not , way back in the Seventies , an advocate of devolution , and I sometimes think that my fears have to come to pass .
“ But the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and we can not ignore what we have , or we will truly endanger the future of the Union .
“ We can not ride roughshod over what has now been established for some 20 years or more .
`` And if we do , we will truly endanger the future of the United Kingdom.
” Lord Cormack also warned there was no “ subject which should cause more concern or potential heartache to any member of [ the ] house than the subject of the future of the United Kingdom ” .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a constitutional and political tragedy if , a decade from now , we had Northern Ireland broke away , maybe Wales , but almost certainly Scotland.
” He stressed the “ seriousness ” of what he called “ this threat , this danger ” to the Union .
READ MORE : SNP 's new hate crime law could see people at home prosecuted Economist Andrew Wilson , who leads the SNP Growth Commission and who led the party ’ s vision of an independent Scotland in 2024 , forecasts Scottish independence would occur @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We ’ re looking at the bulk of the process completed in the term of the next Scottish Parliament , by which I mean getting a vote , winning a vote , and securing the negotiations .
But he stressed : “ We must remember that even our most bitter opponents will be citizens of an independent Scotland the day after [ secession ] .
“ The minute we win , our opponents have to become our allies.
” DO N'T MISS : Nicola Sturgeon faces BACKLASH over Covid Levels system [ REVEAL @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Islands are Argentine ' [ LATEST ] SNP faces legal challenge over 'unreasonable ' election decision [ INSIGHT ] Mr Wilson also expressed concern for independence polling and stressed : “ What we ’ re hearing from polls is that independence isn ’ t yet the settled will , but it ’ s settling.
” However , Keith Brown MSP , SNP Depute Leader , claims Scottish independence has already become the will of the majority in Scotland .
He said : “ Independence has now become the settled will of the majority @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the chaotic and incompetent government of Boris Johnson and a Westminster system which treats Scotland as an afterthought at best , more and more people are deciding that the best way forward for Scotland is as an equal , independent country .

Brexit: Wilson shares plan for Scottish independence after exit
Lord Cormack said he believed Scotland will “almost certainly” become independent due to "the forces of English nationalism which seem to be a little too predominant in my party”. He also stressed the importance of the devolved Parliament at Holyrood, which was established in 1999.
Trending
Addressing the House of Lords, the Tory peer and former South Staffordshire MP added: “I was not, way back in the Seventies, an advocate of devolution, and I sometimes think that my fears have to come to pass. “But the fact is, we do have devolution and we cannot ignore what we have, or we will truly endanger the future of the Union. “That, we must not do. “We cannot ride roughshod over what has now been established for some 20 years or more.
A Tory Peer has warned about Scottish Independence
Support for Scottish independence sits at 58 percent
"And if we do, we will truly endanger the future of the United Kingdom.” Lord Cormack also warned there was no “subject which should cause more concern or potential heartache to any member of [the] house than the subject of the future of the United Kingdom”. He continued: “It would be a constitutional and political tragedy if, a decade from now, we had Northern Ireland broke away, maybe Wales, but almost certainly Scotland.” He stressed the “seriousness” of what he called “this threat, this danger” to the Union. READ MORE: SNP's new hate crime law could see people at home prosecuted
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Lord Patrick Cormack
Economist Andrew Wilson, who leads the SNP Growth Commission and who led the party’s vision of an independent Scotland in 2024, forecasts Scottish independence would occur in 2026. He said: “We’re looking at the bulk of the process completed in the term of the next Scottish Parliament, by which I mean getting a vote, winning a vote, and securing the negotiations. But he stressed: “We must remember that even our most bitter opponents will be citizens of an independent Scotland the day after [secession]. “The minute we win, our opponents have to become our allies.” DON'T MISS:
Nicola Sturgeon faces BACKLASH over Covid Levels system [REVEAL]
New plan to encourage population 'Falkland Islands are Argentine' [LATEST]
SNP faces legal challenge over 'unreasonable' election decision [INSIGHT]
Lord Cormack said Scotland could be independent by 2026
Mr Wilson also expressed concern for independence polling and stressed: “What we’re hearing from polls is that independence isn’t yet the settled will, but it’s settling.” However, Keith Brown MSP, SNP Depute Leader, claims Scottish independence has already become the will of the majority in Scotland. He said: “Independence has now become the settled will of the majority of people in Scotland. “Faced with the chaotic and incompetent government of Boris Johnson and a Westminster system which treats Scotland as an afterthought at best, more and more people are deciding that the best way forward for Scotland is as an equal, independent country.
IndyRef2: Douglas Ross outlines ‘issues SNP need to focus on’


thedailyexpress--2020-10-28--'Get out now!' Boris Johnson told to pull the UK out of EU trade talks as time runs out

Brexit trade talks between the EU and UK will take place in Brussels from Thursday , it was announced today .
European Commission spokesman Dan Ferrie said : `` I can confirm that negotiations are ongoing in London right now , they will run until tomorrow and then they will take place here in Brussels , as of Thursday . ''
He did not say what stage negotiations are currently at , but he added both sides are `` engaging intensively '' to reach a deal .
The transition period expires at the end of the year .
This means @ @ @ @ @ @ @ within the next few weeks in order for it to be ratified by then .
The main obstacles so far have been over future fishing rights , as well as the so-called `` level playing field '' rules to ensure fair competition and governance arrangements for any agreement .
But Express.co.uk readers believe Mr Johnson should end the talks after he promised to do so earlier this month if no deal looked likely .
Readers were asked between 1.40pm and 9.22pm on Tuesday whether they thought Mr Johnson should pull the UK out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Out of the 6,208 people who voted , a whopping 6,018 people ( 97 percent ) said the UK should end talks .
Only 171 voters ( three percent ) disagreed with this , while 19 ( 0 percent ) said they did not know .
READ MORE : EU rejects plans to stop NI firms being slapped with trade barriers Many readers shared their frustration at the stalling talks .
One person said : `` The EU were told not to come to Britain unless their demands had been quashed and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` A phone call later and Mr Barnier is back here .
`` Have I missed something ?
No matter what the EU is offering it means nothing as long as the WA is still valid . ''
DO N'T MISS Brexit POLL : Should Boris pull out of EU trade talks TOMORROW ?
[ POLL ] Brexit panic as German fishermen desperate for deal [ INSIGHT ] Andrew Neil hits out at £180m post-Brexit spending splurge [ REVEALED ] Another reader added : `` The EU could at any time use this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their rulings .
`` Boris must put this political time bomb through the shredder for his peace of mind , as well as his Government and the British people . ''
A third person also said : `` Why have we waited so long - get out now . ''
And a fourth simply said : `` Yes absolutely . ''
Downing Street warned on Monday that `` time is very short '' to bridge the `` significant '' gaps between the UK and EU .
The president of the European Council also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ difficult stage .
He said : `` We all know that , in all negotiations , the last and final decisions are the most difficult .
`` Will we get a deal ?
I do n't know – it will depend on what will be on the table . ''

Brexit: Lamberts says talks must focus on 'major sticking point'
Brexit trade talks between the EU and UK will take place in Brussels from Thursday, it was announced today. European Commission spokesman Dan Ferrie said: "I can confirm that negotiations are ongoing in London right now, they will run until tomorrow and then they will take place here in Brussels, as of Thursday." He did not say what stage negotiations are currently at, but he added both sides are "engaging intensively" to reach a deal.
Trending
The transition period expires at the end of the year. This means a deal will need to be reached within the next few weeks in order for it to be ratified by then. The main obstacles so far have been over future fishing rights, as well as the so-called "level playing field" rules to ensure fair competition and governance arrangements for any agreement. But Express.co.uk readers believe Mr Johnson should end the talks after he promised to do so earlier this month if no deal looked likely.
Boris Johnson has been urged to pull the UK our of trade talks
Readers were asked between 1.40pm and 9.22pm on Tuesday whether they thought Mr Johnson should pull the UK out of trade talks with the EU today. Out of the 6,208 people who voted, a whopping 6,018 people (97 percent) said the UK should end talks. Only 171 voters (three percent) disagreed with this, while 19 (0 percent) said they did not know. READ MORE: EU rejects plans to stop NI firms being slapped with trade barriers
Brexit news: Readers thought Boris Johnson should end talks
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Many readers shared their frustration at the stalling talks. One person said: "The EU were told not to come to Britain unless their demands had been quashed and they were prepared to talk sensibly. "A phone call later and Mr Barnier is back here. "Have I missed something? No matter what the EU is offering it means nothing as long as the WA is still valid." DON'T MISS
Brexit POLL: Should Boris pull out of EU trade talks TOMORROW? [POLL]
Brexit panic as German fishermen desperate for deal [INSIGHT]
Andrew Neil hits out at £180m post-Brexit spending splurge [REVEALED]
Michel Barnier has been in London for trade talks
Another reader added: "The EU could at any time use this to force us to obey certain of their rulings. "Boris must put this political time bomb through the shredder for his peace of mind, as well as his Government and the British people." A third person also said: "Why have we waited so long - get out now." And a fourth simply said: "Yes absolutely."
The UK will resume talks with the EU in Brussels
Downing Street warned on Monday that "time is very short" to bridge the "significant" gaps between the UK and EU. The president of the European Council also warned Brexit negotiations are at their most difficult stage. He said: "We all know that, in all negotiations, the last and final decisions are the most difficult. "Will we get a deal? I don't know – it will depend on what will be on the table."
Boris Johnson warned the UK would walk away from talks
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thedailyexpress--2020-10-27--No thank you! Brussels REJECTS UK olive branch - Westminster and Dublin ignored

The Government offered to allow the province to be included in the European Union ’ s free-trade agreements despite it leaving the customs union at the end of the year .
Without a special deal , traders on both sides of the border face being slapped with new trade tariffs when exporting their around the world .
Farmers have expressed fears that millions of litres of milk could go to waste unless the EU includes Northern Irish products in its 60 global trade deals .
Downing Street is adamant the territory will also be included in the UK ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Express.co.uk : “ We are very clear that NI is part of the UK Customs Territory and will be covered by UK FTAs .
This means all NI goods will be treated as UK goods.
” Both No10 and the Irish government have lobbied Brussels to allow Northern Ireland to be included in the EU ’ s free-trade deals .
But UK sources say the Commission has yet to take them up on the offer as part of the discussions in the Brexit Joint Committee .
Under last year ’ s Withdrawal Agreement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ union but will follow single market rules to prevent border with the Republic .
Under the border fix , any goods produced in Northern Ireland can circulate freely throughout the EU .
But those goods will not be recognised as EU products if they are exported as part of the bloc ’ s existing free-trade agreements .
Northern Ireland , alongside the rest of the UK , will leave the EU ’ s 60 free-trade agreements on December 1 after the end of the post-Brexit transition period .
Dairy farmers and milk producers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dramatic slump in business if a special arrangement for the north isn ’ t found .
Most of Northern Ireland ’ s milk is processed across the border before being exported to Europe and further afield .
Under most of the EU ’ s trade agreements , exported goods can only be classed as domestic if they respect the limits or foreign components and ingredients – known as rules of origin .
Currently millions of litres of milk are produced in Northern Ireland but processed in the south before being exported around the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Andrew Neil hits out at £180m post-Brexit spending splurge This means milk produced after Brexit in the North and process in the Republic would be classed as a non-EU product and hit by export tariffs when sent outside of the EU27 .
The food and drink industry is particularly impacted because of its complex cross-border supply chains on the island of Ireland .
The producers of Baileys , the whisky liqueur , uses manufacturing sites on both sides the border .
The same applies to Guinness , which is brewed in Dublin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Belfast before being returned to the republican capital for export .
DO N'T MISS UK-US 'special relationship ' threatened unless Boris champion Brexit [ ANALYSIS ] No deal Brexit may see new car prices rise by £2,800 [ INSIGHT ] Sterling remains 'rangebound ' as post-Brexit trade talks continue [ FORECAST ] Mike Johnstone , chief executive of the Dairy Council for Northern Ireland , told RTE : “ Any dairy product manufactured in Northern Ireland is exported under EU free-trade agreements .
“ We also have a third of our raw milk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for further processing .
“ Some of that is manufactured , goes on to the EU , some comes back to Northern Ireland and onto Great Britain .
But a significant proportion goes on to third countries and is exported under EU FTAs .
“ We ’ re highly exposed if we can not continue the trade flows we have at the minute .
We do not have the processing capacity in Northern Ireland to handle all the milk that is produced in Northern Ireland .
So we have to be able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ border to get it processed .
If we can not do that and can not add the value the loser will be dairy farmers on the island of Ireland .
”

Brexit: Lamberts says talks must focus on 'major sticking point'
The Government offered to allow the province to be included in the European Union’s free-trade agreements despite it leaving the customs union at the end of the year. Without a special deal, traders on both sides of the border face being slapped with new trade tariffs when exporting their around the world. Farmers have expressed fears that millions of litres of milk could go to waste unless the EU includes Northern Irish products in its 60 global trade deals.
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Downing Street is adamant the territory will also be included in the UK’s post-Brexit agreements. A Government spokesman told Express.co.uk: “We are very clear that NI is part of the UK Customs Territory and will be covered by UK FTAs. This means all NI goods will be treated as UK goods.” Both No10 and the Irish government have lobbied Brussels to allow Northern Ireland to be included in the EU’s free-trade deals. But UK sources say the Commission has yet to take them up on the offer as part of the discussions in the Brexit Joint Committee.
EU has rejected UK's offer to include Northern Ireland in the bloc's trade deals
Under last year’s Withdrawal Agreement, Northern Ireland will leave the customs union but will follow single market rules to prevent border with the Republic. Under the border fix, any goods produced in Northern Ireland can circulate freely throughout the EU. But those goods will not be recognised as EU products if they are exported as part of the bloc’s existing free-trade agreements. Northern Ireland, alongside the rest of the UK, will leave the EU’s 60 free-trade agreements on December 1 after the end of the post-Brexit transition period.
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Dairy farmers and milk producers have complained that they will see a dramatic slump in business if a special arrangement for the north isn’t found. Most of Northern Ireland’s milk is processed across the border before being exported to Europe and further afield. Under most of the EU’s trade agreements, exported goods can only be classed as domestic if they respect the limits or foreign components and ingredients – known as rules of origin. Currently millions of litres of milk are produced in Northern Ireland but processed in the south before being exported around the world as EU milk. MUST READ: Andrew Neil hits out at £180m post-Brexit spending splurge
This means milk produced after Brexit in the North and process in the Republic would be classed as a non-EU product and hit by export tariffs when sent outside of the EU27. The food and drink industry is particularly impacted because of its complex cross-border supply chains on the island of Ireland. The producers of Baileys, the whisky liqueur, uses manufacturing sites on both sides the border. The same applies to Guinness, which is brewed in Dublin and then sent to packing units in Belfast before being returned to the republican capital for export. DON'T MISS
UK-US 'special relationship' threatened unless Boris champion Brexit [ANALYSIS]
No deal Brexit may see new car prices rise by £2,800 [INSIGHT]
Sterling remains 'rangebound' as post-Brexit trade talks continue [FORECAST]
Boris Johnson called out by Ridge for 'magically resuming talks'


thedailyexpress--2020-10-27--Brexit trade talks at 'most difficult stage': Frost and Barnier's two weeks to secure deal

Mr Michel said the outcome remained in the balance and predicted a further fortnight of intense negotiations .
He admitted it was too early to say if an agreement would be signed at the end of the final decisive phase ahead of the Brexit transition period ’ s end on December 31 .
Boris Johnson has threatened to walk away without a deal if the EU does not offer the UK a reasonable agreement .
Mr Michel said : “ In my opinion it ’ s very clear that it is necessary to work seriously , which is what we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trust for Michel Barnier and his team .
`` We will assess in the next days or in the next weeks , when we consider it is time to assess , what is the result of the talks that are ongoing .
“ We all know that in all negotiations , the last and final decisions are the most difficult .
`` Will we get a deal ?
I don ’ t know , it will depend on what will be on the table . ''
`` But we are working in order @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well informed , are involved in the process in order to make sure there is confidence – which is key in order to able to decide.
” The negotiations will switch to Brussels on Thursday after taking place in London since the process restarted last week .
Talks were halted earlier this month after Mr Johnson blamed Brussels for effectively ending negotiations by refusing to budge on sticking points .
European Commission spokesman Dan Ferrie told reporters : `` I can confirm that negotiations are ongoing in London right now , they will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take place here in Brussels , as of Thursday . ''
He would not be drawn on the status of the negotiations but said both sides are `` engaging intensively '' to reach a deal .
READ MORE : Brexit LIVE : Boris given days to secure 'laws , borders , cash , fish' Downing Street has warned `` time is very short '' to bridge the `` significant '' gaps between the UK and EU .
The current transition arrangements expire at the end of the year and a deal will need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for it to be ratified by then .
The main obstacles to a deal have been rows over fishing rights , the so-called `` level playing field '' rules to ensure fair competition mechanisms for resolving future disputes .
Mr Michel said : “ It is not a surprise .
You know what are the most difficult topics , and we are working to try to find solutions on the most difficult topics .
“ It ’ s not possible for me to assess what will happen in the next days or in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have suggested that mid-November is now the absolute deadline for a deal in order for there to be time for parliamentary ratification on both sides of the Channel .
DO N'T MISS Brexiteer erupts in response to no deal warning - MORE scaremongering [ FOCUS ] Boris must ensure ONE thing in EU talks… but 'Merkel anxious about it ' [ SPOTLIGHT ] Brexit breakthrough : Urgent talks move to Brussels as UK stands firm [ INSIGHT ]

Brexit: Lamberts says talks must focus on 'major sticking point'
Mr Michel said the outcome remained in the balance and predicted a further fortnight of intense negotiations. He admitted it was too early to say if an agreement would be signed at the end of the final decisive phase ahead of the Brexit transition period’s end on December 31. Boris Johnson has threatened to walk away without a deal if the EU does not offer the UK a reasonable agreement.
Will we get a deal? I don’t know, it will depend on what will be on the table Charles Michel
Mr Michel said: “In my opinion it’s very clear that it is necessary to work seriously, which is what we are trying to do, with full trust for Michel Barnier and his team. "We will assess in the next days or in the next weeks, when we consider it is time to assess, what is the result of the talks that are ongoing. “We all know that in all negotiations, the last and final decisions are the most difficult. "Will we get a deal? I don’t know, it will depend on what will be on the table." "But we are working in order to make sure all member states are well informed, are involved in the process in order to make sure there is confidence – which is key in order to able to decide.”
Charles Michel said Brexit talks were now in their most difficult phase
The negotiations will switch to Brussels on Thursday after taking place in London since the process restarted last week. Talks were halted earlier this month after Mr Johnson blamed Brussels for effectively ending negotiations by refusing to budge on sticking points. European Commission spokesman Dan Ferrie told reporters: "I can confirm that negotiations are ongoing in London right now, they will run until tomorrow and then they will take place here in Brussels, as of Thursday." He would not be drawn on the status of the negotiations but said both sides are "engaging intensively" to reach a deal. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: Boris given days to secure 'laws, borders, cash, fish'
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Charles Michel said the outcome of the talks was still hanging in the balance
Michel Barnier is in London for talks but the negotiations will switch to Brussels on Thursday
Downing Street has warned "time is very short" to bridge the "significant" gaps between the UK and EU. The current transition arrangements expire at the end of the year and a deal will need to be reached within weeks in order for it to be ratified by then. The main obstacles to a deal have been rows over fishing rights, the so-called "level playing field" rules to ensure fair competition mechanisms for resolving future disputes.
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Mr Michel said: “It is not a surprise. You know what are the most difficult topics, and we are working to try to find solutions on the most difficult topics. “It’s not possible for me to assess what will happen in the next days or in the next two weeks.” EU sources have suggested that mid-November is now the absolute deadline for a deal in order for there to be time for parliamentary ratification on both sides of the Channel. DON'T MISS
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Boris must ensure ONE thing in EU talks… but 'Merkel anxious about it'[SPOTLIGHT]
Brexit breakthrough: Urgent talks move to Brussels as UK stands firm[INSIGHT]
Simon Coveney said a deal was likely but difficult


thedailyexpress--2020-10-27--SNP's new hate crime law could see people prosecuted for expressing views in OWN HOMES

However critics fear the Hate Crime and Public Order Bill , which centres around plans for a new offence of `` stirring up hatred '' , will stifle freedom of expression .
BBC Scotland , Catholic bishops , the Humanist Society of Scotland , and the Scottish Police Federation are amongst those to have raised concerns , along with Mr Bean star Rowan Atkinson and writer Val McDermid .
Because of this , Mr Yousaf was forced to amend the legislation and change the controversial `` stirring up '' offences section which has been condemned by opponents .
It now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be limited to “ intent ” relating to age , disability , religion , sexual orientation , transgender identity and variations in sex characteristics and therefore prosecutions could only be brought in this respect .
During today ’ s session , Glasgow Tory MSP and Committee Convenor Adam Tomkins questioned the Scottish Justice Secretary on how you can commit an offence of public order in private .
It comes after Mr Yousaf suggested during the committee session that he would be in favour of the stirring up offences applying inside home dwellings .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ are considering the scope of the criminal law in this Parliament , we ’ ve got to be careful not to under criminalise and also guard against overcriminalisation and make sure we are not inadvertently rendering criminal that we think ought to be free to do.
” Liam Kerr MSP , Scottish Conservative Justice Spokesman , added : “ The Hate Crime Bill was a mess when the SNP first brought it to parliament and it still contains serious issues that need to be fixed .
“ Tinkering around the margins will not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Parliament history .
“ This latest admission from the justice secretary confirms what so many respondents to the consultation have warned – that as drafted , this Bill means free speech could be criminalised within the home with friends you ’ ve invited over for a dinner party , and that Mr Yousaf is perfectly comfortable with that .
“ The SNP need to be clear with the Scottish public about exactly what they intend this Hate Crime Bill to do .
`` They can ’ t keep trying to force through dangerous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ N'T MISS : SNP faces legal challenge over 'unreasonable ' election decision [ REVEAL ] Boris snaps back : PM to fight 'tooth and nail ' to defeat Sturgeon ' [ INSIGHT ] ‘ Cosy Club ’ House of Lords SHAMED as MP unleashes on Chamber [ LATEST ] At the same time , it emerged the Scottish Government failed to consult court officials on the controversial laws with the Scottish Tories claiming they were “ left in the dark ” until the last minute .
But Mr Yousaf defended the legislation rejecting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( SCTS ) were not consulted .
He added : “ The point of stirring up offences and the reason why I think we need these offences is their effect is or could be to motivate people who carry out acts of hatred , violence , assaults and so on against members of groups who belong to particular communities ( interruption ) .
“ What it does is if you ’ re stirring up religious hatred against Jews , with the intent of stirring up hatred in your private dwelling with your children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve invited over for a dinner party if they then act upon that hatred and commit offences that would be prosecuted by the law , should the person who with the intent of stirring up hatred if their behaviour was threatening or abusive , should that person not be culpable ?
Should they not receive criminal sanction ?
” The Justice Secretary stressed the Scottish Government is willing to look again at protections of free speech in the legislation .
Mr Yousaf said he would be open to expanding protections of freedom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protected characteristics in the Bill - as only statements made against people on the grounds of their religion or sexual orientation are currently covered .
He also said he would consider broadening protections to acts that express `` antipathy , dislike , ridicule or insults '' .

George Galloway slams SNP on Hate Crime Bill
MSPs questioned Scottish Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf over the controversial legislation during an evidence session before the Holyrood Justice Committee for the first time today. The new proposed legislation will introduce a stirring-up of hate offence on characteristics including disability, sexual orientation and age.
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However critics fear the Hate Crime and Public Order Bill, which centres around plans for a new offence of "stirring up hatred", will stifle freedom of expression. BBC Scotland, Catholic bishops, the Humanist Society of Scotland, and the Scottish Police Federation are amongst those to have raised concerns, along with Mr Bean star Rowan Atkinson and writer Val McDermid. Because of this, Mr Yousaf was forced to amend the legislation and change the controversial "stirring up" offences section which has been condemned by opponents. It now means "stirring up offences" would be limited to “intent” relating to age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, transgender identity and variations in sex characteristics and therefore prosecutions could only be brought in this respect.
Scottish Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf
Adam Tomkins quizzed Mr Yousaf on the leglisation
During today’s session, Glasgow Tory MSP and Committee Convenor Adam Tomkins questioned the Scottish Justice Secretary on how you can commit an offence of public order in private. It comes after Mr Yousaf suggested during the committee session that he would be in favour of the stirring up offences applying inside home dwellings. Mr Tomkins continued: “When we are considering the scope of the criminal law in this Parliament, we’ve got to be careful not to under criminalise and also guard against overcriminalisation and make sure we are not inadvertently rendering criminal that we think ought to be free to do.” Liam Kerr MSP, Scottish Conservative Justice Spokesman, added: “The Hate Crime Bill was a mess when the SNP first brought it to parliament and it still contains serious issues that need to be fixed. READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon faces BACKLASH over Covid Levels system
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Liam Kerr, Scottish Conservative Justice spokesman
“Tinkering around the margins will not fix the most controversial bill in Scottish Parliament history. “This latest admission from the justice secretary confirms what so many respondents to the consultation have warned – that as drafted, this Bill means free speech could be criminalised within the home with friends you’ve invited over for a dinner party, and that Mr Yousaf is perfectly comfortable with that. “The SNP need to be clear with the Scottish public about exactly what they intend this Hate Crime Bill to do. "They can’t keep trying to force through dangerous attacks on freedom of speech.” DON'T MISS:
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Boris snaps back: PM to fight 'tooth and nail' to defeat Sturgeon' [INSIGHT]
‘Cosy Club’ House of Lords SHAMED as MP unleashes on Chamber [LATEST]
Discussions in the home could become crimalised


thedailyexpress--2020-10-27--Nicola Sturgeon insists measures on household gatherings ARE working in Scotland

The SNP leader told the Scottish Parliament the number of new coronavirus cases is now growing more slowly than at the start of October .
Scotland 's First Minister added COVID-19 cases were not doubling within a nine-day period - as was previously feared .
Ms Sturgeon said : `` The good news is that we believe the restrictions on household gatherings may already be having an effect .
`` The number of new cases is growing more slowly than at the start of the month .
`` We have not seen the nine-day doubling of cases that was predicted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the effect of the difficult and I know unwelcome restrictions on hospitality which have been enforced now for just over two weeks will soon start to be seen as well . ''
The SNP leader also stressed the importance of implementing and following restrictions now in order to have some normality by Christmas .
She said : `` For all of Scotland our aim is to get to Level 1 and then to Level 0 of the framework as quickly as it is possible to do .
`` We know it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the very low levels of transmission that would be needed for that .
`` If we dig in now and get COVID under more control , we perhaps open the door not to 100 percent normality by Christmas , but hopefully more than we have right now .
We all want to see that . ''

Sturgeon: Restrictions on household gatherings having an effect
The SNP leader told the Scottish Parliament the number of new coronavirus cases is now growing more slowly than at the start of October. Scotland's First Minister added COVID-19 cases were not doubling within a nine-day period - as was previously feared.
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Ms Sturgeon said: "The good news is that we believe the restrictions on household gatherings may already be having an effect. "The number of new cases is growing more slowly than at the start of the month. "We have not seen the nine-day doubling of cases that was predicted earlier this month. "We hope that the effect of the difficult and I know unwelcome restrictions on hospitality which have been enforced now for just over two weeks will soon start to be seen as well." READ MORE: SNP faces legal challenge over 'unreasonable' election decision
Nicola Sturgeon has been Scotland's First Minister for over half a decade
The importance of social distancing during the coronavirus pandemic
The SNP leader also stressed the importance of implementing and following restrictions now in order to have some normality by Christmas. She said: "For all of Scotland our aim is to get to Level 1 and then to Level 0 of the framework as quickly as it is possible to do. "We know it is possible because over the summer we got to the very low levels of transmission that would be needed for that. "If we dig in now and get COVID under more control, we perhaps open the door not to 100 percent normality by Christmas, but hopefully more than we have right now. We all want to see that."
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Nicola Sturgeon on details of proposed tier system in Scotland
The coronavirus risk chart


thedailyexpress--2020-10-27--Nicola Sturgeon faces BACKLASH over Covid Levels system - new regions risk strict lockdown

The First Minister set out a draft framework on which lockdown levels will apply to different parts of Scotland after warning hospital admissions were likely to rise for some time yet .
The proposals were debated by MSPs this afternoon before a vote this evening .
The levels will range from 0 to 4 , and under Level 4 , restrictions will be much closer to the full lockdown seen at the end of March with Ms Sturgeon stressing it would only be used if absolutely necessary .
But Neil Findlay interrupted the First Minister ’ s speech on Tuesday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ imposing her decisions “ without scrutiny ” .
The Scottish Labour MSP said : “ Scrutiny is absolutely essential , we have been given a number of documents at 12pm today , this is very complex stuff .
“ We have had no opportunity to consult with businesses in our area , local authorities and constituents .
“ We can not go on as we are at the moment with having things imposed without scrutiny.
” Ruth Davidson , leader of the Scottish Conservatives in Holyrood called for Nicola Sturgeon to relax restrictions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ socialise .
She said : “ We need a plan for Christmas .
“ If we want people to continue working within the rules for the long-term , they shouldn ’ t be faced with a choice where family needs override their buy in to compliance.
” Richard Leonard , leader of Scottish Labour , added : “ The government has been trying to build a cross-party consensus over the last week .
“ We need to get this right : communities are suffering and businesses are suffering , Scotland has already paid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Parliament need to be able to ask questions of Government ministers in this Parliament about this framework in advance of us voting on it.
” In Levels 0 and 1 , pubs and restaurants can open as normal , although in Level 1 a 10:30pm curfew will be imposed .
DO N'T MISS : Boris snaps back : PM to fight 'tooth and nail ' to defeat Sturgeon ' [ REVEAL ] ‘ Cosy club ’ House of Lords SHAMED as MP unleashes on Chamber [ LATEST ] Prince Charles ‘ campaigned for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ INSIGHT ] In Level 3 bars and restaurants will not be permitted to sell alcohol either indoors or outside and must close by 6pm .
In Level 4 such premises would be closed , along with non-essential stores , visitor attractions , gyms , libraries and hairdressers .
Level 4 restrictions will only be imposed if `` absolutely necessary as a short , sharp intervention to address extremely high transmission rates , '' Ms Sturgeon pledged .
Speaking as Holyrood debated plans to bring in a five-tier system of restrictions , Ms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very toughest measures on the North and South Lanarkshire council areas .
The First Minister said the Highlands Council area , as well as Orkney , Shetland , the Western Isles and Moray , could go straight into Level 1 - the second-lowest tier in the new plan .
She added : `` For all of Scotland our aim is to get to Level 1 and then to Level 0 of the framework as quickly as it is possible to do .
`` We know it is possible because over the summer we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transmission that would be needed for that .
`` If we dig in now and get COVID under more control , we perhaps open the door not to 100 percent normality by Christmas , but hopefully more than we have right now .
We all want to see that . ''
But the plan has also sparked fury from the Educational Institute of Scotland ( EIS ) , who raised concerns in an open letter to parliament , over plans to keep schools fully open at all levels .
In a joint statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trade Association , Scottish Beer and Pub Association and Scottish Hospitality Group , said higher levels of restrictions will require higher levels of support for businesses , asking they be , at least , in line with levels in England .
The debate at Holyrood took place after Scotland recorded another 25 deaths from coronavirus and 1,327 positive tests in the past 24 hours .

Nicola Sturgeon on details of proposed tier system in Scotland
The First Minister set out a draft framework on which lockdown levels will apply to different parts of Scotland after warning hospital admissions were likely to rise for some time yet. The proposals were debated by MSPs this afternoon before a vote this evening.
Trending
The levels will range from 0 to 4, and under Level 4, restrictions will be much closer to the full lockdown seen at the end of March with Ms Sturgeon stressing it would only be used if absolutely necessary. But Neil Findlay interrupted the First Minister’s speech on Tuesday insisting the SNP leader should not be imposing her decisions “without scrutiny”. The Scottish Labour MSP said: “Scrutiny is absolutely essential, we have been given a number of documents at 12pm today, this is very complex stuff. “We have had no opportunity to consult with businesses in our area, local authorities and constituents.
Scotland will introduce new measures on November 2nd
Scotland new measures have been announced
“We cannot go on as we are at the moment with having things imposed without scrutiny.” Ruth Davidson, leader of the Scottish Conservatives in Holyrood called for Nicola Sturgeon to relax restrictions over Christmas to allow family members to socialise. She said: “We need a plan for Christmas. “If we want people to continue working within the rules for the long-term, they shouldn’t be faced with a choice where family needs override their buy in to compliance.” READ MORE: SNP faces legal challenge over 'unreasonable' election decision
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Nicola Sturgeon
Richard Leonard, leader of Scottish Labour, added: “The government has been trying to build a cross-party consensus over the last week. “We need to get this right: communities are suffering and businesses are suffering, Scotland has already paid a price. “Members of this Parliament need to be able to ask questions of Government ministers in this Parliament about this framework in advance of us voting on it.” In Levels 0 and 1, pubs and restaurants can open as normal, although in Level 1 a 10:30pm curfew will be imposed. DON'T MISS:
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‘Cosy club’ House of Lords SHAMED as MP unleashes on Chamber [LATEST]
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Ruth Davidson, Scottish Conservative Holyrood leader
In Level 3 bars and restaurants will not be permitted to sell alcohol either indoors or outside and must close by 6pm. In Level 4 such premises would be closed, along with non-essential stores, visitor attractions, gyms, libraries and hairdressers. Level 4 restrictions will only be imposed if "absolutely necessary as a short, sharp intervention to address extremely high transmission rates," Ms Sturgeon pledged. Speaking as Holyrood debated plans to bring in a five-tier system of restrictions, Ms Sturgeon confirmed ministers were considering imposing the very toughest measures on the North and South Lanarkshire council areas.
Nicola Sturgeon admits Christmas restrictions remain likely


thedailyexpress--2020-10-28--Lockdown POLL: Should Boris Johnson follow SAGE advice and enforce national shutdown? VOTE

The latest analysis from the elite team of Government advisers shows the UK could have 25,000 coronavirus patients in hospital by the end of November – and 500 deaths per day .
On Tuesday the UK reported its highest daily death count since May 27 with 367 fatalities , bringing the total tally to a grim milestone as it passed 60,000 .
No10 ’ s Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( Sage ) has predicted the second coronavirus wave will be deadlier than the first .
While deaths are predicted to peak at a lower level than seen earlier this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to last for much longer .
The group said the peak could be prolonged for months on end as they called on the Government to take more drastic action .
Sage members , including the chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance , want to see more stringent measures introduced as Britons head towards winter .
A source told The Telegraph : “ It 's going to be worse this time , more deaths .
`` That is the projection that has been put in front of the Prime Minister , and he is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pressure to lock down again.
” A spokeswoman for the Government said ministers were receiving advice from a `` wide range of scientific and medical experts '' .
She called the latest figures `` concerning '' .
READ MORE : West Yorkshire braced for 'inevitable ' measures as Covid cases surge The Chancellor has repeatedly spoken out against the idea of another nationwide lockdown , insisting localised measures were the way to go .
Just two weeks ago , Mr Sunak said a return to a full lockdown would wreak havoc on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Commons , he said while ministers must take action to save lives and protect the NHS , they must also “ acknowledge the stark reality of the economic and social impacts of another national lockdown.
” DO N'T MISS THIS is Boris 's only way out of Britain 's coronavirus lockdown horror [ REVEALED ] Will Leeds go into Tier 3 lockdown ?
[ EXPLAINED ] Boris Johnson 's potential plan for 'normality ' over Christmas revealed [ ANALYSIS ] In an interview on Wednesday , Environment Secretary George Eustice said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not necessary because `` the measures we 're taking are certainly holding it back '' and scientists are unsure how much it could achieve in two weeks .
Speaking on Times Radio , he said the Government ’ s three-tier system has held back the natural R rate of the virus of between 2.7 and 3 to the current level of between 1.4 and 1.5 .
Mr Eustice said : `` Sage themselves , when they posited that ( a circuit-breaker ) as one option , highlighted that it was uncertain how much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whether it would be enough , and also that there would be lots of negative consequences of such an intervention . ''
Mr Eustice was unable to give a timeframe for how long tiered restrictions are expected to last , but said he believes that local lockdowns have been working .
His comments come Nottinghamshire was highlighted as the latest region of England to brace for Tier 3 measures .
The “ very high alert ” will be imposed on the entire county at one minute past midnight on Friday .

Lockdown: Overview of the restrictions in place across UK
The Prime Minister has previously been advised to order a national shutdown to slow the spread of the deadly virus. The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) in September recommended a “circuit breaker” national lockdown. On Tuesday the UK reported its highest daily death count since May 27 with 367 fatalities, bringing the total tally to a grim milestone as it passed 60,000.
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Analysis, published in an Academy of Medical Sciences report back in July, at the request of the Government's Chief Scientific Advisor Sir Patrick Vallance, also warned about the severity of coronavirus during the winter period. While deaths were predicted to peak at a lower level than seen earlier this year, the winter high was expected to last for much longer, and potentially be more deadly. With pressure growing on the Prime Minister, a source told The Telegraph: “It's going to be worse this time, more deaths.
Coronavirus poll: Should Boris Johnson heed Sage advice and order a nationwide lockdown? VOTE
Millions of people across England are already living under Tier 3 restrictions
"That is the projection that has been put in front of the Prime Minister, and he is now being put under a lot of pressure to lock down again.” A spokeswoman for the Government said ministers were receiving advice from a "wide range of scientific and medical experts". The Prime Minister has also come under pressure over his Tier-approach to halting COVID cases. READ MORE: West Yorkshire braced for 'inevitable' measures as Covid cases surge
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Professor Chris Whitty, the chief medical officer, warned even the toughest curbs may not contain the spread of the virus in the worst-hit areas. “The base will not be sufficient. I think that’s very clearly the professional view,” he said. The Chancellor has repeatedly spoken out against the idea of another nationwide lockdown, insisting localised measures were the way to go. Just two weeks ago, Mr Sunak said a return to a full lockdown would wreak havoc on the country’s economic health. DON'T MISS
THIS is Boris's only way out of Britain's coronavirus lockdown horror [REVEALED]
Will Leeds go into Tier 3 lockdown? [EXPLAINED]
Boris Johnson's potential plan for 'normality' over Christmas revealed [ANALYSIS]
Chancellor Rishi Sunak said a national lockdown would inflict 'permanent damage' on England's economy
Speaking in the Commons, he said while ministers must take action to save lives and protect the NHS, they must also “acknowledge the stark reality of the economic and social impacts of another national lockdown.” In an interview on Wednesday, Environment Secretary George Eustice said a national lockdown to control coronavirus is not necessary because "the measures we're taking are certainly holding it back" and scientists are unsure how much it could achieve in two weeks. Speaking on Times Radio, he said the Government’s three-tier system has held back the natural R rate of the virus of between 2.7 and 3 to the current level of between 1.4 and 1.5.
UK coronavirus map
Mr Eustice said: "Sage themselves, when they posited that (a circuit-breaker) as one option, highlighted that it was uncertain how much it would achieve in two weeks and whether it would be enough, and also that there would be lots of negative consequences of such an intervention." Mr Eustice was unable to give a timeframe for how long tiered restrictions are expected to last, but said he believes that local lockdowns have been working. His comments come Nottinghamshire was highlighted as the latest region of England to brace for Tier 3 measures.
Elderly shoppers pictured with face masks in Warrington as they brace for Tier 3 rules


thedailyexpress--2020-10-28--Sturgeon crisis: Alex Salmond calls for investigation against SNP leader to be widened

Former First Minister Mr Salmond had been the subject of an inquiry by civil servants allegations of sexual misconduct were made against him , but a judicial review deemed that probe to be unlawful .
He was cleared of 13 charges of sexual assault , including attempted rape , at the High Court in Edinburgh in March .
Nicola Sturgeon then referred herself to his standards panel after it was claimed the SNP leader had broken the strict code by not immediately declaring meetings she had held with her predecessor to discuss the misconduct claims .
James Hamilton , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , is currently looking at whether Ms Sturgeon breached standards of conduct .
Earlier this year , a remit set out by Deputy First Minister John Swinney said Ms Sturgeon 's role , if any , in the investigation into Mr Salmond would be fully scrutinised .
But in a letter earlier this month to Mr Hamilton - the adviser leading the inquiry into the First Minister - Mr Salmond has called for that remit to be widened .
He has asked if `` equal status '' will be given to investigating if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The former First Minister has also asked if she failed to act on legal advice , and if civil servants did not give truthful information to Parliament .
Mr Salmond said the current remit could be a `` straw man to knock down '' .
He wrote in his letter to Mr Hamilton : `` What I wish to know is whether matters which , by contrast , are specified in the ministerial code such as the primary responsibility of not misleading Parliament ( contrary to 1.3 ( c ) of the code @ @ @ @ @ @ @ act on legal advice suggesting the Government was at risk of behaving unlawfully ( contrary to 2.30 of the code ) , and such as the ministerial failure to ensure civil servants gave truthful information to Parliament ( contrary to 1.3 ( e ) of the code ) , will have at least equal status in your deliberations or are you confined to the political remit which you have been set ? ''
A Scottish Government spokesman said : “ We are aware of the letter .
“ The remit of Mr Hamilton @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was set out to the parliament by the Deputy First Minister.
” Alex Cole-Hamilton , the Liberal Democrat MSP who is also a member of the Holyrood committee looking into the handling of complaints against Mr Salmond , had also called for Mr Hamilton 's inquiry to investigate if Ms Sturgeon misled Parliament .
DO N'T MISS Boris snaps back : PM to fight 'tooth and nail ' to defeat Sturgeon ' [ COMMENT ] Nicola Sturgeon squirms as she 's questioned on Covid testing [ VIDEO ] Sturgeon furious as she demands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so far ! '
[ INTERVIEW ] The new push has been triggered by a meeting Ms Sturgeon had with Mr Salmond 's former chief of staff Geoff Aberdein on March 29 , 2018 , where she was informed of allegations against Scotland 's former First Minister .
Ms Sturgeon has been accused of misleading the Scottish Parliament by failing to disclose the details of her meeting with Mr Aberdein .
The ministerial code states : “ Ministers who knowingly mislead the parliament will be expected to offer their resignation to the first @ @ @

Nicola Sturgeon accused of 'picking fights' by Douglas Ross
Former First Minister Mr Salmond had been the subject of an inquiry by civil servants allegations of sexual misconduct were made against him, but a judicial review deemed that probe to be unlawful. He was cleared of 13 charges of sexual assault, including attempted rape, at the High Court in Edinburgh in March. Nicola Sturgeon then referred herself to his standards panel after it was claimed the SNP leader had broken the strict code by not immediately declaring meetings she had held with her predecessor to discuss the misconduct claims.
Trending
James Hamilton, a former director of public prosecutions in Ireland, is currently looking at whether Ms Sturgeon breached standards of conduct. Earlier this year, a remit set out by Deputy First Minister John Swinney said Ms Sturgeon's role, if any, in the investigation into Mr Salmond would be fully scrutinised. But in a letter earlier this month to Mr Hamilton - the adviser leading the inquiry into the First Minister - Mr Salmond has called for that remit to be widened. He has asked if "equal status" will be given to investigating if Ms Sturgeon misled the Scottish Parliament.
Alex Salmond calls for investigation against Nicola Sturgeon to be widened
Scotland's First Minister is coming under increasing pressure
The former First Minister has also asked if she failed to act on legal advice, and if civil servants did not give truthful information to Parliament. Mr Salmond said the current remit could be a "straw man to knock down". He wrote in his letter to Mr Hamilton: "What I wish to know is whether matters which, by contrast, are specified in the ministerial code such as the primary responsibility of not misleading Parliament (contrary to 1.3 (c) of the code), such as the failure to act on legal advice suggesting the Government was at risk of behaving unlawfully (contrary to 2.30 of the code), and such as the ministerial failure to ensure civil servants gave truthful information to Parliament (contrary to 1.3 (e) of the code), will have at least equal status in your deliberations or are you confined to the political remit which you have been set?" READ MORE: SNP faces legal challenge over 'unreasonable' election decision
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Alex Salmond has called for the remit set out by John Swinney to be widened
Nicola Sturgeon leadsership has been brought into question
Alex Salmond has asked if she failed to act on legal advice, and if civil servants did not give truthful information to Parliament
The new push has been triggered by a meeting Ms Sturgeon had with Mr Salmond's former chief of staff Geoff Aberdein on March 29, 2018, where she was informed of allegations against Scotland's former First Minister. Ms Sturgeon has been accused of misleading the Scottish Parliament by failing to disclose the details of her meeting with Mr Aberdein. The ministerial code states: “Ministers who knowingly mislead the parliament will be expected to offer their resignation to the first minister.”


thedailyexpress--2020-10-28--Nicola Sturgeon's SNP in financial turmoil as accounts show £320,000 blackhole

In 2019 , expenditure from the party rose to £5.6million while legal fees also rose to £156,483 .
The records for 2019 comes within a year which covered spending in the EU Parliament and general elections .
This is the second year the party has recorded a deficit , after reporting a loss of £319,161 in 2018 .
Overall , the party 's income stood at £5,290,815 - a rise from £4.7million in 2018 .
A large part of that cash flow was £2,247,344 from the party membership and £904,695 from donations .
The reason in part to the overall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on campaigning and staff respectively .
Despite the deficit , the party has cash reserves of £271,916 .
This comes ahead of next year 's Holyrood elections where the party , like most north of the border , could increase spending on campaigning and staff .
If the SNP increases its stranglehold following the election , Ms Sturgeon has vowed to once again hold an independence referendum .
Currently , the SNP has 61 of the 129 seats in Holyrood with the Scottish Conservatives holding the next highest with 31 .
Despite her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Mr Johnson has ruled out another vote .
JUST IN : Brexit LIVE : Barnier holds fish talks TODAY – EU panic about no deal He claimed the original vote in 2014 , whereby 55 percent voted to remain as part of the UK , was a once in a lifetime referendum and can not be held again .
In order to stop a second independence referendum , the UK Government is understood to be drawing up plans to approach Ms Sturgeon 's desires In a leaked document prepared by Hanbury Strategy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ approach the issue differently .
The memo also claimed there is a `` vacuum of leadership '' within the unionist movement .
DO N'T MISS Prince Charles ‘ campaigned for SNP ' as teenager in school elections [ Update ] Nicola Sturgeon challenged by 'REAL independence ' party [ Latest ] Ex-Bank of England chief dismantles Sturgeon 's plot to rejoin the EU [ Insight ] The document said : “ If the SNP builds on this momentum , then the endpoint could be a full-blown constitutional crisis or a second independence referendum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ consume significant political capital for the government .
`` Another option would be to prepare a new constitutional plan ready to roll out in case of an SNP victory in May .
“ These measures could eventually be ratified via a referendum as a ‘ placation ’ against the SNP ’ s demands for an independence vote .
”

Sturgeon: Restrictions on household gatherings having an effect
In 2019, expenditure from the party rose to £5.6million while legal fees also rose to £156,483. The records for 2019 comes within a year which covered spending in the EU Parliament and general elections. This is the second year the party has recorded a deficit, after reporting a loss of £319,161 in 2018.
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Overall, the party's income stood at £5,290,815 - a rise from £4.7million in 2018. A large part of that cash flow was £2,247,344 from the party membership and £904,695 from donations. The reason in part to the overall deficit was the £1,557,871 and £1,101,024 spent on campaigning and staff respectively. Despite the deficit, the party has cash reserves of £271,916.
Nicola Sturgeon: SNP accounts show losses over £300,000
SNP: The party has recorded a second-year of deficits
This comes ahead of next year's Holyrood elections where the party, like most north of the border, could increase spending on campaigning and staff. If the SNP increases its stranglehold following the election, Ms Sturgeon has vowed to once again hold an independence referendum. Currently, the SNP has 61 of the 129 seats in Holyrood with the Scottish Conservatives holding the next highest with 31. Despite her vow to hold a second independence referendum, Mr Johnson has ruled out another vote. JUST IN: Brexit LIVE: Barnier holds fish talks TODAY – EU panic about no deal
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SNP: The party has £271,916 in reserves
He claimed the original vote in 2014, whereby 55 percent voted to remain as part of the UK, was a once in a lifetime referendum and cannot be held again. In order to stop a second independence referendum, the UK Government is understood to be drawing up plans to approach Ms Sturgeon's desires In a leaked document prepared by Hanbury Strategy, the Prime Minister was advised to approach the issue differently. The memo also claimed there is a "vacuum of leadership" within the unionist movement. DON'T MISS
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The document said: “If the SNP builds on this momentum, then the endpoint could be a full-blown constitutional crisis or a second independence referendum. “Either of these outcomes would consume significant political capital for the government. "Another option would be to prepare a new constitutional plan ready to roll out in case of an SNP victory in May. “These measures could eventually be ratified via a referendum as a ‘placation’ against the SNP’s demands for an independence vote.”
Scotland independence polling
No 10 however, refuted the authenticity of the memo. A spokesperson, also insisted the issue of independence had been resolved in 2014.
Douglas Ross, the Scottish Conservatives leader


thedailyexpress--2020-10-28--Brexit LIVE: Barnier opens fishing talks TODAY – EU no deal panic as deadline approaches

The two sides met again in London to conduct talks but as of yet , have not agreed a Brexit deal with the issues of fisheries and state aid remaining .
Although the EU agreed to intensify talks in pursuit of a deal , Mr Michel claimed he could not be sure if a deal will now be agreed in time .
Commenting on talks , Mr Michel said : `` Will we get a deal ?
I don ’ t know , it will depend on what will be on the table .
Michel Barnier will now remain in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resuming negotiations in Brussels .
It is though , the EU 's negotiator will open talks on fisheries today in order to help facilitate a wide agreement .
Both sides are now though to be in the tunnel phase of talks where they conduct negotiations away from media scrutiny .
Within the phase , it is thought the two sides will try to agree on the final details of any agreement .
The EU had initially set the end of this month for a deal to be agreed , but EU sources are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In order for a deal to be agreed , the UK has insisted Brussels must budge on its demands over fisheries .
EU states want continued access to Britain 's waters , similar to what was had under the Common Fisheries Policy ( CFP ) .
The CFP gave EU fishermen equal access to coastal waters within the EU 's exclusive economic zone - exploiting the UK 's large and rich coastal area .
Mr Michel added : `` It is not a surprise .
You know what are the most difficult @ @ @ @ @ @ @ try to find solutions on the most difficult topics . ''
12.17pm update : Portsmouth International Port in need of £20million funding Director of the port , Mike Sellers , claimed the hub needs Government support in order to stop any disruption .
He claimed the money is needed to make upgrades to the port such as border checkpoints and animal compounds .
In a report to the Portsmouth City Council , he wrote : `` Although we do not have an accurate cost estimate at this stage , we anticipate that this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In the event that government funding is not provided for the necessary costs associated with the border operating model or Operation Transmission , the council is not in a position to provide the necessary funding , and the consequences would be very severe . ''
11.32am update : Department for International Trade forced to backtrack on soy sauce claim On Tuesday , the DIT claimed the ingredient will now be cheaper due to the recent trade deal with Japan .
After outrage from experts over the claim , the DIT has been forced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ claimed the sauce is already zero-rated under the current EU-Japan trade deal .
A later tweet said : `` To clarify : thanks to the UK-Japan trade deal , soya sauce will be cheaper than it otherwise would be under WTO terms , on which we would be trading with Japan from 1 Jan if we had not secured the UK-Japan trade deal . ''
9.56am update : More from the CBI Dame Carolyn also said : `` At our first presidential committee meeting after the referendum the debate wasn ’ t about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ result said about business and its relationship with the British public , and what do we do about it .
“ Our position has not really changed since 24 June 2016 .
“ We completely accepted the result of the referendum and never supported a second referendum .
“ We have campaigned for a good deal that protects jobs from day one .
`` It Brexit has had a momentum of its own .
It has been almost a perfect storm .
The economy has gone into suspended animation while we resolve this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can have a resolution so we can move on.
” 8.35am update : `` Why should we trust the CBI ? ''
Commenting on the claims from CBI chief , Dame Carolyn Fairbairn , Brexiteer and Tory MP for Wokingham , Sir John Redwood claimed the UK should not trust the organisation .
He said : `` The CBI has a long record of recommending damaging EU economic policies to the UK , starting with the Exchange Rate Mechanism which caused a deep recession and continuing with support for policies causing the banking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their advice on Brexit ? ''
The director general of the Confederation of British Industry ( CBI ) , Dame Carolyn Fairbairn , claimed businesses were not prepared for a hard Brexit due to the double whammy of coronavirus and the UK 's exit from the EU .
She said : `` The thing that ’ s painful is that it has taken so long to get to a resolution .
`` I think we will get a deal .
The remaining issues look soluble.
” Ireland 's foreign affairs minister , Simon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the EU and UK is likely .
He did , add , however , that talks are now at a challenging time .
He said : `` We ’ ve got to be ready for January 1 , there ’ s going to be no more extensions of time , no more transition periods .
“ Time is up at the end of the year .
`` We 're likely to get a deal but it wo n't be easy . ''
7.21am update : Brexit talks now in most difficult stage Speaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Charles Michel , claimed negotiations now are at the most crucial and difficult stage .
The two sides have now entered 'tunnel talks ' away from media scrutiny but the areas of divergence , namely security , state aid and fisheries remain .
The EU has now set the middle of next month as a deadline but despite that , Mr Michel could not be sure if a deal will be agreed .
He said : `` In my opinion it ’ s very clear that it is necessary to work seriously , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do , with full trust for Michel Barnier and his team , and we will assess in the next days or in the next weeks , when we consider it is time to assess , what is the result of the talks that are ongoing .
“ We all know that in all negotiations , the last and final decisions are the most difficult .
`` Will we get a deal ?
I don ’ t know , it will depend on what will be on the table .
`` But we are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ member states are well informed , are involved in the process in order to make sure there is confidence – which is key in order to able to decide .
”

Brexit: David Miliband outlines UK-US relationship concerns
The two sides met again in London to conduct talks but as of yet, have not agreed a Brexit deal with the issues of fisheries and state aid remaining. Although the EU agreed to intensify talks in pursuit of a deal, Mr Michel claimed he could not be sure if a deal will now be agreed in time. Commenting on talks, Mr Michel said: "Will we get a deal? I don’t know, it will depend on what will be on the table. THIS LIVE BLOG HAS CLOSED. CLICK HERE FOR LIVE UPDATES.
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Michel Barnier will now remain in London to conduct talks until Thursday before resuming negotiations in Brussels. It is though, the EU's negotiator will open talks on fisheries today in order to help facilitate a wide agreement. Both sides are now though to be in the tunnel phase of talks where they conduct negotiations away from media scrutiny. Within the phase, it is thought the two sides will try to agree on the final details of any agreement. The EU had initially set the end of this month for a deal to be agreed, but EU sources are now indicating mid-November as the absolute deadline.
Brexit Live: The EU is not sure if deal will be agreed
In order for a deal to be agreed, the UK has insisted Brussels must budge on its demands over fisheries. EU states want continued access to Britain's waters, similar to what was had under the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). The CFP gave EU fishermen equal access to coastal waters within the EU's exclusive economic zone - exploiting the UK's large and rich coastal area. Mr Michel added: "It is not a surprise. You know what are the most difficult topics, and we are working to try to find solutions on the most difficult topics." FOLLOW BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES:
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10:15pm update: Boris must bring Lords into line or pay price says Brexiteer Boris Johnson must bring Brexit rebels in the House of Lords into line - or risk being blamed for not delivering a "proper" Brexit, a think-tank boss has warned.
Robert Oulds said the Upper Chamber's bid to strip out key aspects of the Internal Market Bill proved peers had learned nothing from the chaos which became a feature of the later stages of Brexit.
The UK Internal Market Bill is undergoing detailed line-by-line scrutiny in the House of Lords on the second of four days currently earmarked for committee stage.
The legislation sets out the way that trade within the UK will work once it is outside the EU's single market and customs union. 8.45pm update: Brexit software will not be ready in time for end of the transition period Software designed to control the movement of freight post-Brexit may not be ready for January 1.
This means products face delays on their journey to shop shelves. It could lead to a price hike.
The Association of Freight Software Suppliers (AFSS) said its members could not guarantee delivery of the system on time. But the government says the software, designed to help submit paperwork including taxes digitally, is on track for January 1. But the government says the software, designed to help submit paperwork including taxes digitally, is on track for January 1. 7.15pm update: Britain 'no longer useful to US after Brexit', former senior diplomat says Peter Ricketts says Britain is no longer the central point of Europe in the US's opinion, particularly under Joe Biden's leadership. He told Politico: “When Biden looks towards Europe, he will see Paris and Berlin more as the center of gravity of what’s really important for America in Europe, both economically and in security terms, and Britain will be seen rather as an outlier, rather outside the mainstream of Europe." 6.20pm update: Spain hits out at Britain as Madrid panics over Gibraltar Brexit deal Spain has accused Britain of a "lack of political will" when it comes to reaching a deal to avoid a hard EU border with Gibraltar in the wake of Brexit in a move which is sure to raise hackles in London. The Spanish government is to agree a deal with the Rock in a bid to keep the border open - and allow the 15,000 people who cross daily to work in Gibraltar to continue doing so. A Spanish diplomatic source warned any deal aimed at creating a "shared prosperity zone" in Gibraltar was unlikely without a trade deal between the UK and the EU. With barely two months before the end of the transition period on December 31, such a deal is currently hanging in the balance. 5.30pm update: Boris receives warning about voting habits Boris Johnson has been warned voters who helped him topple Labour's so-called Red Wall in the north in the last general election will desert the Tories next time unless he delivers the sort of Brexit they expect. Former Brexit Party MEP John Tennant also said he would not allow the Brexit Party - especially leader Nigel Farage - to be airbrushed out of the picture when the story of how Britain came to quit the EU is told. The Conservatives were propelled to victory in December by picking up dozens of seats in Labour heartlands, including former Prime Minister Tony Blair's old seat of Sedgefield in the North-East. Mr Tennant's comments come at a time when Red Wall Conservative MPs are thought to be increasingly unhappy at stringent coronavirus restrictions being imposed in the north, and yesterday 50 of them from the recently formed Northern Research Group wrote to the Prime Minister to call for a post-pandemic economy plan coupled with a roadmap out of lockdown. 4.15pm update: Donald Tusk in isolation suffering with Covid symptoms The Polish politician led the council of EU member state leaders throughout the Brexit negotiations with Theresa May. He stood down from the role last year. An EU official said today: "As of yesterday, 27 October, President Tusk has been self-isolating with symptoms. “He is awaiting test results.”
Boris Johnson called out by Ridge for 'magically resuming talks'
3.48pm update: Negotiations 'inch' closer towards a deal, report claims Bloomberg claims progress is being made in London over a potential Brexit deal, with the possibility of an early-November agreement. The news outlet says "people familiar with the discussions" have described a "shift in mood" with both sides eager to reach a deal. However, Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove has indicated the UK will continue to play hardball with fishing quotas. 2.34pm update: UK farmers looking to recruit thousands of workers ahead of next summer Farmers across the country are looking to bring in thousands of new workers for next year's harvest. In a campaign launched called 'Pick for Britain', the Horticultural Seasonal Worker Survey showed there are not enough workers in the industry. The campaign has received a huge pick up with 30,000 applicants but John Hardman of Hops Labour Solutions, one of UK's biggest recruiters, only four percent took up the jobs. He said: "It's hard physical labour. There is very little appetite in the domestic labour market for seasonal agricultural work because of the nature of the work." 1.51pm update: Boris Johnson blasted for 'giving up' as PM warned of key EU advantage Brexit talks have seen the Government "give up" one key issue, Tory MP Iain Duncan Smith has claimed. Speaking on the Chopper Politics podcast, he said: "Or biggest area is financial services, which our biggest export, is going to be ruled out. "If that is ruled out, it is one way traffic to high-value goods exported from Europe being sold at inflated prices. "That satisfies them, but not us. We need the regulatory position on services to be equivalent and we get on with it. Europe is blocking that. "The Government seems to have given up on services. We need to make sure Europe doesn't rule the roost."
Brexit Live: Michel Barnier will remain in London for talks
12.17pm update: Portsmouth International Port in need of £20million funding Director of the port, Mike Sellers, claimed the hub needs Government support in order to stop any disruption. He claimed the money is needed to make upgrades to the port such as border checkpoints and animal compounds. In a report to the Portsmouth City Council, he wrote: "Although we do not have an accurate cost estimate at this stage, we anticipate that this will be greater than £20m. "In the event that government funding is not provided for the necessary costs associated with the border operating model or Operation Transmission, the council is not in a position to provide the necessary funding, and the consequences would be very severe." 11.32am update: Department for International Trade forced to backtrack on soy sauce claim On Tuesday, the DIT claimed the ingredient will now be cheaper due to the recent trade deal with Japan. After outrage from experts over the claim, the DIT has been forced to clarify its claim. Some experts claimed the sauce is already zero-rated under the current EU-Japan trade deal. A later tweet said: "To clarify: thanks to the UK-Japan trade deal, soya sauce will be cheaper than it otherwise would be under WTO terms, on which we would be trading with Japan from 1 Jan if we had not secured the UK-Japan trade deal."
Brexit Live: Charles Michel made the claim yesterday
9.56am update: More from the CBI Dame Carolyn also said: "At our first presidential committee meeting after the referendum the debate wasn’t about trade or tariffs but about what the result said about business and its relationship with the British public, and what do we do about it. “Our position has not really changed since 24 June 2016. “We completely accepted the result of the referendum and never supported a second referendum. “We have campaigned for a good deal that protects jobs from day one. "It Brexit has had a momentum of its own. It has been almost a perfect storm. The economy has gone into suspended animation while we resolve this seismic issue. “I hope we can have a resolution so we can move on.” 8.35am update: "Why should we trust the CBI?" Commenting on the claims from CBI chief, Dame Carolyn Fairbairn, Brexiteer and Tory MP for Wokingham, Sir John Redwood claimed the UK should not trust the organisation. He said: "The CBI has a long record of recommending damaging EU economic policies to the UK, starting with the Exchange Rate Mechanism which caused a deep recession and continuing with support for policies causing the banking crash. "Why should we trust their advice on Brexit?"
Brexit news: EU fisheries
8.10am update: CBI heaps pressure on UK Government The director general of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), Dame Carolyn Fairbairn, claimed businesses were not prepared for a hard Brexit due to the double whammy of coronavirus and the UK's exit from the EU. She said: "The thing that’s painful is that it has taken so long to get to a resolution. "I think we will get a deal. The remaining issues look soluble.” 7.43am update: Post-Brexit deal "likely" says Simon Coveney Ireland's foreign affairs minister, Simon Coveney, has claimed a deal between the EU and UK is likely. He did, add, however, that talks are now at a challenging time. He said: "We’ve got to be ready for January 1, there’s going to be no more extensions of time, no more transition periods. “Time is up at the end of the year. "We're likely to get a deal but it won't be easy."
Brexit news: Negotiating timeline


thedailyexpress--2020-10-28--Keir Starmer crash: Police say no record of speaking to officer before leaving scene

The Labour Party leader is understood to have been driving through North West London around midday on Sunday for an appointment with his tailor when the Toyota Rav 4 SUV he was driving hit a cyclist near his home in Kentish Town .
Sir Keir Starmer , the former Director of Public Prosecutions , exchanged insurance details with the man before leaving him in the care of an ambulance crew , who took the cyclist to hospital with an injured arm .
Two Metropolitan Police cars arrived only to discover the Labour leader had already left the scene .
Police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home and left a note requesting he report to his local station for questioning , which he did that afternoon .
The Labour leader was not arrested or interviewed under caution , with an investigation into the collision from the Met ’ s Roads and Transport Policing Command ongoing .
A spokesman for Sir Keir had said : `` Keir was involved in a minor road traffic accident on Sunday .
`` He spoke to a British Transport Police officer who attended the scene and swapped details with the officer and the other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the scene until the ambulance arrived .
Later that afternoon , he reported the incident to a police station in accordance with the law .
`` Since the incident , Keir has also been in touch with the other individual involved . ''
But a British Transport Police spokesman said they have no record of speaking with Sir , and that no details had been logged onto their system .
Labour 's claim Sir Keir spoke to an officer was dismissed by British Transport Police , who confirmed it had in fact been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - understood to be a PCSO - who happened to be a witness .
READ MORE : Labour shamed over lockdown in Wales as anger grows at 'barmy ' rules PCSOs are not police officers and do not have the powers to investigate any crime , arrest potential suspects or interview and process prisoners .
A British Transport Police spokesman said : “ It was an off-duty member of BTP staff that provided their details as a witness to the collision – not a police officer . ''
But a senior source close @ @ @ @ @ @ @ details with “ an individual who came up to him '' and said they were an officer .
They said : “ That ’ s why they swapped the badge number .
DO N'T MISS Betray Britons on Brexit , Boris , and you could hand power to Starmer [ OPINION ] BBC Breakfast viewers rage at Labour 's Shadow Chancellor [ VIDEO ] Christmas lockdown : Labour 's Dodds grilled by BBC host on Starmer plea [ INTERVIEW ] '' If British Transport Police say the individual wasn ’ t a police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was at the police station two hours later anyway.
” The Metropolitan Police had earlier refused to confirm Sir Keir was involved in the accident , adding the person in question had swapped details with the cyclist but had left the scene before officers arrives .
They confirmed the driver later attended a nearby police station and was not arrested or interviewed under caution .

Brexit: Lavery expresses 'anger' towards Keir Starmer's policy
The Labour Party leader is understood to have been driving through North West London around midday on Sunday for an appointment with his tailor when the Toyota Rav 4 SUV he was driving hit a cyclist near his home in Kentish Town. Sir Keir Starmer, the former Director of Public Prosecutions, exchanged insurance details with the man before leaving him in the care of an ambulance crew, who took the cyclist to hospital with an injured arm. Two Metropolitan Police cars arrived only to discover the Labour leader had already left the scene.
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Police officers then travelled to Sir Keir's home and left a note requesting he report to his local station for questioning, which he did that afternoon. The Labour leader was not arrested or interviewed under caution, with an investigation into the collision from the Met’s Roads and Transport Policing Command ongoing. A spokesman for Sir Keir had said: "Keir was involved in a minor road traffic accident on Sunday. "He spoke to a British Transport Police officer who attended the scene and swapped details with the officer and the other individual involved.
Labour clarified Sir Keir did not speak to an officer before leaving the scene of the crash
"Keir stayed at the scene until the ambulance arrived. Later that afternoon, he reported the incident to a police station in accordance with the law. "Since the incident, Keir has also been in touch with the other individual involved." But a British Transport Police spokesman said they have no record of speaking with Sir, and that no details had been logged onto their system. Labour's claim Sir Keir spoke to an officer was dismissed by British Transport Police, who confirmed it had in fact been an “off-duty member of staff” - understood to be a PCSO - who happened to be a witness. READ MORE: Labour shamed over lockdown in Wales as anger grows at 'barmy' rules
The Labour leader was not arrested or interviewed under caution
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PCSOs are not police officers and do not have the powers to investigate any crime, arrest potential suspects or interview and process prisoners. A British Transport Police spokesman said: “It was an off-duty member of BTP staff that provided their details as a witness to the collision – not a police officer." But a senior source close to Labour said Sir Keir had swapped details with “an individual who came up to him" and said they were an officer. They said: “That’s why they swapped the badge number. DON'T MISS
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Two Metropolitan Police cars arrived only to discover the Labour leader had already left the scene
Keir Starmer visited a local police station for questioning just hours after the collision
"If British Transport Police say the individual wasn’t a police officer, then fine. "Keir was at the police station two hours later anyway.” The Metropolitan Police had earlier refused to confirm Sir Keir was involved in the accident, adding the person in question had swapped details with the cyclist but had left the scene before officers arrives. They confirmed the driver later attended a nearby police station and was not arrested or interviewed under caution.
The main reason among voters for not sticking with Labour