thedailyexpress--2020-05-21--Cabinet minister scolded by own colleague after blaming scientists for COVID-19 plan

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Mr Buckland ’ s acerbic remarks came after Therese Coffey , the Work and Pensions Secretary , tried to deflect criticism about key decisions , such as ending community testing , on to the scientists advising ministers on the UK response .
Miss Coffey , speaking to Sky News on Tuesday , said : `` If the science was wrong , advice at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not surprised if people then think we made a wrong decision . ''
Schools set to reopen on different dates depending on regional safety Downing Street distanced itself from her comments shortly afterwards , and Mr Buckland said there is little point in `` blaming people '' when the COVID-19 pandemic is an `` evolving picture '' .
Mr Buckland told Radio 4 ’ s Today programme : `` I think we should all be working together .
I think pointing fingers and blaming people is extremely unproductive .
`` I think it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ evolving picture . ''
He said understanding about the virus and its behaviour is changing regularly , and he cited how the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( Sage ) had only this week recommended that loss of taste or smell be added to the coronavirus symptoms list .

Mr Buckland’s acerbic remarks came after Therese Coffey, the Work and Pensions Secretary, tried to deflect criticism about key decisions, such as ending community testing, on to the scientists advising ministers on the UK response. Miss Coffey, speaking to Sky News on Tuesday, said: "If the science was wrong, advice at the time was wrong, I'm not surprised if people then think we made a wrong decision."
Schools set to reopen on different dates depending on regional safety
Downing Street distanced itself from her comments shortly afterwards, and Mr Buckland said there is little point in "blaming people" when the COVID-19 pandemic is an "evolving picture".
Mr Buckland told Radio 4’s Today programme: "I think we should all be working together. I think pointing fingers and blaming people is extremely unproductive.
"I think it is important we acknowledge this is an evolving picture."
He said understanding about the virus and its behaviour is changing regularly, and he cited how the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) had only this week recommended that loss of taste or smell be added to the coronavirus symptoms list.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-21--Speaker erupts in furious Commons row as he demands Matt Hancock LEAVE chamber

Speaker of the House Lindsay Hoyle was forced to interrupt Sir Keir Starmer during Prime Minister 's Questions when he spotted Matt Hancock having a loud debate with members of the Opposition from his seat behind the Prime Minister .
The Commons Speaker furiously invited the Health Secretary to leave the Chamber unless he stopped interrupting the debate .
He blasted : “ Minister for Health , please , I don ’ t mind you advising the Prime Minister but you don ’ t need to advise the Opposition during this .
“ Sorry , do you want to leave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on maximum numbers , so if you want to give way to somebody else I ’ m more than happy !
” Opening Prime Minister 's Questions , Boris Johnson said the deaths of 181 NHS staff and 131 social care workers have been reported as involving COVID-19 .
He told the Commons : `` I know the thoughts of the whole House are with their families and friends . ''
READ MORE : China warning : Nearly half of Britons feel threatened by rise of China The Prime Minister also told MPs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have recruited 25,000 staff capable of tracing the contacts of up to 10,000 new COVID-19 cases a day .
As he confronted Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer , Mr Johnson added that the UK is now testing more `` than virtually any country in Europe '' .
He said : `` Already 125,000 care home staff have been tested , perhaps he did n't know that . ''
He added : `` We are absolutely confident that we will be able to increase our testing not just in care homes but across the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thanks to the hard work of my right honourable friend ( Matt Hancock ) and his teams we will get up to 200,000 tests in the country by the end of this month .
`` Perhaps it is one of the statistics in international comparisons he hesitates to make but actually this country is now testing more than virtually any other country in Europe . ''
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said : `` The number of COVID-19 deaths in Germany stands at around 8,000 , in South Korea it is under 300 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , despite two million tests having been carried out - there has been no effective tracing in place since March 12 when tracing was abandoned .
DO N'T MISS : PMQs LIVE : Boris Johnson faces Keir Starmer as parents demand answers [ LIVE BLOG ] 'Answer for your decisions ! '
Davidson rages at Sturgeon over COVID-19 [ VIDEO ] Davis admits to UK 's 'very big wrong decision ' on Covid in January [ INTERVIEW ]

Matt Hancock ordered to leave PMQs by Lindsay Hoyle
Speaker of the House Lindsay Hoyle was forced to interrupt Sir Keir Starmer during Prime Minister's Questions when he spotted Matt Hancock having a loud debate with members of the Opposition from his seat behind the Prime Minister. The Commons Speaker furiously invited the Health Secretary to leave the Chamber unless he stopped interrupting the debate.
He blasted: “Minister for Health, please, I don’t mind you advising the Prime Minister but you don’t need to advise the Opposition during this. “Sorry, do you want to leave the Chamber? “We’re on maximum numbers, so if you want to give way to somebody else I’m more than happy!” Opening Prime Minister's Questions, Boris Johnson said the deaths of 181 NHS staff and 131 social care workers have been reported as involving COVID-19. He told the Commons: "I know the thoughts of the whole House are with their families and friends." READ MORE: China warning: Nearly half of Britons feel threatened by rise of China
PMQs: Lindsay Hoyle invites Matt Hancock to leave the Commons
PMQs: Boris Johnson faced Sir Keir Starmer on coronavirus testing and care homes death rates
The Prime Minister also told MPs that by June 1 the Government will have recruited 25,000 staff capable of tracing the contacts of up to 10,000 new COVID-19 cases a day. As he confronted Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, Mr Johnson added that the UK is now testing more "than virtually any country in Europe". He said: "Already 125,000 care home staff have been tested, perhaps he didn't know that." He added: "We are absolutely confident that we will be able to increase our testing not just in care homes but across the whole of the community.
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PMQs: Johnson and Starmer clash over care home strategy
"And thanks to the hard work of my right honourable friend (Matt Hancock) and his teams we will get up to 200,000 tests in the country by the end of this month. "Perhaps it is one of the statistics in international comparisons he hesitates to make but actually this country is now testing more than virtually any other country in Europe." Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said: "The number of COVID-19 deaths in Germany stands at around 8,000, in South Korea it is under 300, in contrast, the United Kingdom, despite two million tests having been carried out - there has been no effective tracing in place since March 12 when tracing was abandoned. DON'T MISS:
PMQs LIVE: Boris Johnson faces Keir Starmer as parents demand answers [LIVE BLOG]
'Answer for your decisions!' Davidson rages at Sturgeon over COVID-19 [VIDEO]
Davis admits to UK's 'very big wrong decision' on Covid in January [INTERVIEW]
PMQs: Keir Starmer urged Boris Johnson to look at South Korea and Germany for contact tracing plan
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-05-22--Brexit POLL: What is your preferred outcome from the EU UK trade talks now? VOTE HERE

The UK is currently attempting to thrash out a post-Brexit trade deal with the EU , having vowed not to extend the transition period that runs out at the end of the year .
The negotiations are taking place virtually in response to the coronavirus outbreak .
But little progress has been made over the past few months , as the two sides fail to agree on key issues such as fishing and border checks in Northern Ireland .
Earlier this week the UK 's chief negotiator David Frost accused Brussels of treating the UK as an `` unworthy '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that would force Britain to `` bend to EU norms '' .
In a stark letter to his EU counterpart Michel Barnier , Mr Frost said Brussels ’ proposal that EU state aid rules be part of British law is “ egregious ” and “ simply not a provision any democratic country could sign ” .
The UK negotiators are vying for a similar trade deal to the one signed with Canada .
Previously , Boris Johnson has said when it comes to trade with the EU after Brexit : `` We want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Canada 's . ''
The deal struck between the EU and Canada , known as the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement ( CETA ) , lifts 98 percent of tariffs on imports between the two parties , and was a significant move towards free trade .
But Boris Johnson wants to take the Canada-style agreement further , to include concessions on fishing , aviation , security and foreign policy coordination .
Fishing has become the main sticking point in the negotiations , as the EU is demanding access to Britain 's fishing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amid fears Brexit may be stalled – ‘ Walk away NOW !
’ Another option being discussed is a Norway-style deal , which will leave the UK more closely tied with the EU .
Norway is not a member of the bloc , but it does operate within the European Economic Area ( EEA ) meaning it is also part of the single market and has very limited barriers to trade with the EU .
If the UK pursued such a route , it would mean its trade relations with its nearest neighbours @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now .
But Norway makes substantial contributions to the EU budget and has to follow most EU rules and laws - despite having no say over the regulations as it is not represented in any of the main European institutions .
DO N'T MISS : Boris has gone from hero to zero in record time says FREDERICK FORSYTH [ COMMENT ] How Von der Leyen backed Sturgeon ’ s bid to stop UK exit [ INSIGHT ] Brexit collapse : UK negotiators disclose the date when Boris end talks [ DETAILS ] Such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to set its own fishing rules however , as Norway is not part of the EU 's Common Agricultural Policy ( CAP ) or the Common Fisheries Policy ( CFP ) .
The other option available to the UK is to operate on the basis of an Australian-style deal .
The EU does not have a FTA with Australia , though they are in talks to agree one , and currently mainly operate on World Trade Organisation ( WTO ) rules .
Pursuing an Australia-style deal is effectively pursuing a no deal Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

Brexit: Expert says Whitehall officials expect a 'blow-up' in talks
The UK is currently attempting to thrash out a post-Brexit trade deal with the EU, having vowed not to extend the transition period that runs out at the end of the year. The negotiations are taking place virtually in response to the coronavirus outbreak. But little progress has been made over the past few months, as the two sides fail to agree on key issues such as fishing and border checks in Northern Ireland.
Trending
Earlier this week the UK's chief negotiator David Frost accused Brussels of treating the UK as an "unworthy" partner by offering a low-quality trade agreement that would force Britain to "bend to EU norms". In a stark letter to his EU counterpart Michel Barnier, Mr Frost said Brussels’ proposal that EU state aid rules be part of British law is “egregious” and “simply not a provision any democratic country could sign”. The UK negotiators are vying for a similar trade deal to the one signed with Canada. Previously, Boris Johnson has said when it comes to trade with the EU after Brexit: "We want a comprehensive free trade agreement, similar to Canada's."
Brexit poll: What is your preferred outcome from the EU UK trade talks?
Brexit news: The UK is currently fiercely negotiating a trade deal with the EU
The deal struck between the EU and Canada, known as the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), lifts 98 percent of tariffs on imports between the two parties, and was a significant move towards free trade. But Boris Johnson wants to take the Canada-style agreement further, to include concessions on fishing, aviation, security and foreign policy coordination. Fishing has become the main sticking point in the negotiations, as the EU is demanding access to Britain's fishing waters. JUST IN: Britons FURIOUS amid fears Brexit may be stalled – ‘Walk away NOW!’
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Brexit news: David Frost accused Brussels of treating the UK as an "unworthy" partner
Brexit news: Michael Gove has urged the EU to be more flexible
Such an agreement would give the UK power to set its own fishing rules however, as Norway is not part of the EU's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) or the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). The other option available to the UK is to operate on the basis of an Australian-style deal. The EU does not have a FTA with Australia, though they are in talks to agree one, and currently mainly operate on World Trade Organisation (WTO) rules. Pursuing an Australia-style deal is effectively pursuing a no deal Brexit, with no trade agreement in place.
Brexit timeline


thedailyexpress--2020-05-22--Coronavirus rebellion: Boris faces Cabinet uprising over lockdown

While the Prime Minister favours a cautious approach to allowing people get back to normal , the majority of ministers support a “ back to work ” initiative in June .
If the country does not see an unexpected increase in the number of new coronavirus cases over the next 10 days , Mr Johnson ’ s close circle want him to reopen as many businesses as possible , The Daily Telegraph reports .
Cabinet members are keen to see a return to normal sooner rather than later in the hope of quickly reversing the lockdown ’ s “ massive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ retail units have been gearing up to reopen their doors to shoppers two months after they were shut .
Mask-clad store assistants have been pictured inside shops making changes .
But the hospitality sector is not set to be up and running anytime soon .
A senior Tory told the Telegraph : `` Most of the Cabinet wants to up the pace .
The PM is very cautious because the scientists are being ultra-cautious , and Gove and Hancock are with him on that .
`` But there is growing evidence that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social distancing and hand-washing , rather than staying at home , which means much greater scope for opening up the economy . ''
A Cabinet minister said : `` The scientists are inevitably more risk-averse , but those of us who are not scientists are perhaps keener to open up the country .
`` In other countries , there do n't seem to have been second peaks [ of coronavirus ] when they have come out of lockdown . ''
The strict two-metre social distancing rule will make it hard for businesses to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bars being allowed to welcome back customers in June is slim .
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has said pubs and sit-down restaurants could reopen on July 4 “ at the very earliest ” .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak is among the ministers who have spoken out about the devastating economic effects of the strict lockdown .
DO N'T MISS Brexit warning : EU accused of thwarting UK recovery with threat [ WARNING ] Bank holidays should be scrapped to boost economies after coronavirus [ INSIGHT ] Boris Johnson warned UK economy 'may NEVER recover @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Sunak this week warned the UK economy could suffer permanent “ scarring ” .
And he said people would not be wise to expect an “ immediate bounce back ” from the suffering economy .
He said : “ We are likely to face a severe recession , the likes of which we haven ’ t seen , and , of course , that will have an impact on employment .
“ It ’ s not obvious there will be an immediate bounce back.
” Last week Mr Johnson announced a raft @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowing people to meet with one person from outside their household .
And he urged anyone who was not able to work from home to speak to their boss about heading back .
Figures from Transport for London ( TfL ) showed Tube journeys were up by 18.5 per cent from 5.30 am to 10.30 am on Monday compared to May 11 .
But fears of a second wave remain and the Prime Minister has urged people to walk or cycle if possible .

Lockdown: UK economy is over ‘the worst of it’ says expert
While the Prime Minister favours a cautious approach to allowing people get back to normal, the majority of ministers support a “back to work” initiative in June. If the country does not see an unexpected increase in the number of new coronavirus cases over the next 10 days, Mr Johnson’s close circle want him to reopen as many businesses as possible, The Daily Telegraph reports.
Trending
Cabinet members are keen to see a return to normal sooner rather than later in the hope of quickly reversing the lockdown’s “massive damage” on the economy. Some retail units have been gearing up to reopen their doors to shoppers two months after they were shut. Mask-clad store assistants have been pictured inside shops making changes. But the hospitality sector is not set to be up and running anytime soon.
Boris Johnson is facing a potential cabinet uprising over his lockdown strategy
The Prime Minister is facing opposition over his lockdown easing plan
A senior Tory told the Telegraph: "Most of the Cabinet wants to up the pace. The PM is very cautious because the scientists are being ultra-cautious, and Gove and Hancock are with him on that. "But there is growing evidence that the most important things from now on are social distancing and hand-washing, rather than staying at home, which means much greater scope for opening up the economy." A Cabinet minister said: "The scientists are inevitably more risk-averse, but those of us who are not scientists are perhaps keener to open up the country. "In other countries, there don't seem to have been second peaks [of coronavirus] when they have come out of lockdown." READ MORE: Goldman Sachs CEO notes ‘biggest difference’ with 2008 crash
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Chancellor Rishi Sunak has warned of permanent 'scarring' to the economy
The Prime Minister claps for key workers on Thursday
The Bank of England has said the economy could suffer its sharpest slump in 300 years
Mr Sunak this week warned the UK economy could suffer permanent “scarring”. And he said people would not be wise to expect an “immediate bounce back” from the suffering economy. He said: “We are likely to face a severe recession, the likes of which we haven’t seen, and, of course, that will have an impact on employment. “It’s not obvious there will be an immediate bounce back.”
The stages of easing the UK lockdown
Last week Mr Johnson announced a raft of changes to the lockdown rules, allowing people to meet with one person from outside their household. And he urged anyone who was not able to work from home to speak to their boss about heading back. Figures from Transport for London (TfL) showed Tube journeys were up by 18.5 per cent from 5.30 am to 10.30 am on Monday compared to May 11. But fears of a second wave remain and the Prime Minister has urged people to walk or cycle if possible.
A social distancing sign in a park


thedailyexpress--2020-05-23--Brexit warning: Boris 'won't hesitate' to turn back on trade deal 'EU doesn't understand!'

Boris Johnson and his Conservative Party crushed the opposition in December 's general election to secure a huge 80-seat parliamentary majority , enabling him to force his Brexit deal through the House of Commons , something former Prime Minister Theresa May failed to do on three separate occasions .
This saw Mr Johnson deliver on his general election pledge to `` get Brexit done '' on January 31 , with negotiations on a trade deal with the European Union beginning in March .
But these talks are already on the verge of collapse , with the two sides trading vicious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the latest round of virtual talks last Friday ( May 15 ) .
The UK and EU are at odds over several aspects of the future relationship , and have blamed each other 's negotiating stance for the lack of progress being made thus far .
David Frost , the UK 's chief Brexit negotiator , has warned the EU and his Brussels counterpart Michel Barnier they will have to change their stance on a number of areas by the next round of virtual talks on June 1 .
Even before formal trade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ walk away from the negotiating table if sufficient progress had not been made by June .
John Macdonald , Head of Government Affairs at the Adam Smith Institute think tank , warned this scenario is now becoming more of a reality , and had scathing criticism for the EU .
He told Express.co.uk : `` While a trade deal is now even more in both the EU and UK ’ s interests , the EU appears not to understand ( despite how often it has been repeated ) that unlike Theresa May , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staked on his commitment to ‘ Get Brexit Done ’ .
`` It is likely he will not hesitate to walk away from the table .
`` Johnson and his top team have already shown willingness to walk away should their negotiating principles be violated .
`` They refused to cave to pressure to amend their Withdrawal Agreement Bill when the Tories had no working majority , choosing the riskier strategy of pursuing a General Election over sacrificing their principles . ''
READ MORE : EU could crumble to NOTHING as Italexit serious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Director of the Centre for Brexit Studies at Birmingham City University , warned the exploding tensions between the UK and EU will likely see trade deal negotiations collapse because `` there is no change in sight to the UK Government ’ s negotiating approach '' .
He told this website : `` I think that 'no deal ' is looking increasingly likely .
`` For the free-market Brexit 'ultras ' in the UK negotiating team , any form of continued regulatory alignment with the EU is anathema to them .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what they regard as continued adherence to Brussels rulings .
DO N'T MISS How Grimsby was 'decimated ' by EU 's crippling policy [ INSIGHT ] Boris has gone from hero to zero in record time says FREDERICK FORSYTH [ OPINION ] Britons FURIOUS amid fears Brexit may be stalled – ‘ Walk away NOW !
’ [ COMMENT ] '' Given that we have until the end of next month to request an extension to the so-called Transition Period of continued Single Market and Customs Union membership , time is running out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sight to the UK Government ’ s negotiating approach.
” But while Kostas Maronitis , Lecturer in Politics and International Relations at Leeds Trinity University , conceded Mr Johnson could still turn his back on a trade deal with the EU , he outlined why the Prime Minister would be wrong to do so .
The political expert said : `` Walking away would be wrong for two reasons .
`` First , it would indicate a failure of statecraft and lack of political vision .

Brexit: Expert says Whitehall officials expect a 'blow-up' in talks
Boris Johnson and his Conservative Party crushed the opposition in December's general election to secure a huge 80-seat parliamentary majority, enabling him to force his Brexit deal through the House of Commons, something former Prime Minister Theresa May failed to do on three separate occasions. This saw Mr Johnson deliver on his general election pledge to "get Brexit done" on January 31, with negotiations on a trade deal with the European Union beginning in March. But these talks are already on the verge of collapse, with the two sides trading vicious blows and insults since the conclusion of the latest round of virtual talks last Friday (May 15).
Trending
The UK and EU are at odds over several aspects of the future relationship, and have blamed each other's negotiating stance for the lack of progress being made thus far. David Frost, the UK's chief Brexit negotiator, has warned the EU and his Brussels counterpart Michel Barnier they will have to change their stance on a number of areas by the next round of virtual talks on June 1. Even before formal trade negotiations began, Mr Johnson threatened to walk away from the negotiating table if sufficient progress had not been made by June. John Macdonald, Head of Government Affairs at the Adam Smith Institute think tank, warned this scenario is now becoming more of a reality, and had scathing criticism for the EU.
Brexit news: The EU has been warned Boris Johnson could walk away from trade talks
Brexit news: The Prime Minister has threatened to walk away from trade talks with the EU
He told Express.co.uk: "While a trade deal is now even more in both the EU and UK’s interests, the EU appears not to understand (despite how often it has been repeated) that unlike Theresa May, Johnson’s strong Parliamentary majority is staked on his commitment to ‘Get Brexit Done’. "It is likely he will not hesitate to walk away from the table. "Johnson and his top team have already shown willingness to walk away should their negotiating principles be violated. "They refused to cave to pressure to amend their Withdrawal Agreement Bill when the Tories had no working majority, choosing the riskier strategy of pursuing a General Election over sacrificing their principles." READ MORE: EU could crumble to NOTHING as Italexit serious threat says Soros
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Brexit news: Michel Barnier has lashed out at the UK during the trade negotiations
Professor Alex de Ruyter, Director of the Centre for Brexit Studies at Birmingham City University, warned the exploding tensions between the UK and EU will likely see trade deal negotiations collapse because "there is no change in sight to the UK Government’s negotiating approach". He told this website: "I think that 'no deal' is looking increasingly likely. "For the free-market Brexit 'ultras' in the UK negotiating team, any form of continued regulatory alignment with the EU is anathema to them. "I think they would prefer no deal to what they regard as continued adherence to Brussels rulings. DON'T MISS
How Grimsby was 'decimated' by EU's crippling policy [INSIGHT]
Boris has gone from hero to zero in record time says FREDERICK FORSYTH [OPINION]
Britons FURIOUS amid fears Brexit may be stalled – ‘Walk away NOW!’ [COMMENT]
Brexit news: The UK and EU began trade talks in March
Brexit news: David Frost has warned the EU to change its stance on a number of key areas in the trade deal
"Given that we have until the end of next month to request an extension to the so-called Transition Period of continued Single Market and Customs Union membership, time is running out, and there is no change in sight to the UK Government’s negotiating approach.” But while Kostas Maronitis, Lecturer in Politics and International Relations at Leeds Trinity University, conceded Mr Johnson could still turn his back on a trade deal with the EU, he outlined why the Prime Minister would be wrong to do so. The political expert said: "Walking away would be wrong for two reasons. "First, it would indicate a failure of statecraft and lack of political vision.
Brexit news: The UK wants a trade agreement signed with the EU before the end of the transition period on December 31


thedailyexpress--2020-05-22--Brexit backlash: Lib Dem MP savaged after warning UK ‘can't afford no deal chaos'

The UK and European Union are currently engaged in several rounds of talks as they try to thrash out a post-Brexit trade agreement after Britain officially left the bloc on January 31 .
But talks have already descended into chaos , with both sides trading vicious blows over various demands to be included in the agreement as deep cracks quickly widen .
Boris Johnson continues to insist the UK wants a trade deal signed with the EU before the end of the transition period in December 31 - something he is refusing to extend .
The Prime Minister has also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the negotiating table if sufficient progress has not be made in talks by next month .
Liberal Democrat MP for Oxford West and Abingdon , Layla Moran , has sparked fury with a tweet on the possibility of a no deal Brexit .
The party 's spokeswoman for education tweeted : `` The country can not afford the economic damage and chaos of a no deal Brexit at the end of this year .
`` Time is running out for the Government to agree to an extension and people ’ s livelihoods @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MP came under fire from several Twitter users , who accused her and the party of still not being able to accept the result of the EU referendum and warning an extension to the transition period could cost Britain billions of pounds more .
They also pointed out Mr Johnson has continued to insist the UK will not be asking the EU for a longer deadline .
One person said : `` You ’ ve learnt nothing !
!
The public gave @ BorisJohnson and the @ Conservatives a massive 80 % !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ deliver Brexit , he has !
He promised NO extension to trade talks !
He will keep his promise !
`` You couldn ’ t accept the result of our referendum !
!
Your time has run out ! ''
Another person wrote : `` We 've already left the EU .
We 're almost half-way through the silly transition period .
`` Lengthening that wo n't improve things , it 'll make it worse , and also make the UK liable for billions more in relief cash towards the doomed EU .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Didn ’ t you get the message on 13 December ?
NO EXTENSIONS ! ''
DO N'T MISS What is your preferred outcome from the EU UK trade talks ?
VOTE [ POLL ] Boris has gone from hero to zero in record time says FREDERICK FORSYTH [ OPINION ] Britons FURIOUS amid fears Brexit may be stalled – ‘ Walk away NOW !
’ [ COMMENT ] Roger Helmer , who was a Member of the European Parliament ( MEP ) for the East Midlands from 1999 to 2017 , simply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Brexit extension .
Period . ''
The next virtual round of talks between the UK and EU negotiating teams on a post-Brexit trade deal is due to take place on June 1 .
The UK 's chief negotiator David Frost has warned Brussels to change its stance dramatically if any further progress is to be made .
Earlier this year , the Prime Minister suggested he could walk away from the negotiating table by June if insufficient progress had been made .

Brexit: UK is ‘forcing EU to show its cards’ says expert
The UK and European Union are currently engaged in several rounds of talks as they try to thrash out a post-Brexit trade agreement after Britain officially left the bloc on January 31. But talks have already descended into chaos, with both sides trading vicious blows over various demands to be included in the agreement as deep cracks quickly widen. Boris Johnson continues to insist the UK wants a trade deal signed with the EU before the end of the transition period in December 31 - something he is refusing to extend.
Trending
The Prime Minister has also previously warned the UK could walk away from the negotiating table if sufficient progress has not be made in talks by next month. Liberal Democrat MP for Oxford West and Abingdon, Layla Moran, has sparked fury with a tweet on the possibility of a no deal Brexit. The party's spokeswoman for education tweeted: "The country cannot afford the economic damage and chaos of a no deal Brexit at the end of this year. "Time is running out for the Government to agree to an extension and people’s livelihoods first."
Brexit news: Layla Moran's comments sparked a furious reaction
Brexit news: The Lib Dem MP claimed the UK 'afford the economic damage and chaos of a no deal Brexit'
But the Liberal Democrat MP came under fire from several Twitter users, who accused her and the party of still not being able to accept the result of the EU referendum and warning an extension to the transition period could cost Britain billions of pounds more. They also pointed out Mr Johnson has continued to insist the UK will not be asking the EU for a longer deadline. One person said: "You’ve learnt nothing!! The public gave @BorisJohnson and the @Conservatives a massive 80%! "Why? Because he promised to deliver Brexit, he has! He promised NO extension to trade talks! He will keep his promise! READ MORE: MoD insider blasts Boris Johnson’s ‘nonsense’ Galileo plan
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Brexit news: Layla Moran warned 'time is running out' for the Government to agree an extension to the transition period
Brexit news: Talks between the UK and EU have descended into chaos
Brexit news: Boris Johnson wants a trade deal signed with the EU this year
Roger Helmer, who was a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) for the East Midlands from 1999 to 2017, simply wrote: "Britain cannot afford a Brexit extension. Period." The next virtual round of talks between the UK and EU negotiating teams on a post-Brexit trade deal is due to take place on June 1. The UK's chief negotiator David Frost has warned Brussels to change its stance dramatically if any further progress is to be made. Earlier this year, the Prime Minister suggested he could walk away from the negotiating table by June if insufficient progress had been made.
Brexit news: The UK has until June 30 to request an extension to the transition period


thedailyexpress--2020-05-22--Priti Patel husband: Is the Home Secretary married? Does she have children?

He also worked part-time as her office manager from February 2014 to August 2017 .
Ms Patel stopped employing her @ @ @ @ @ paying him £25,000 to run her office while he held two other jobs .
The @ @ @ @ @ revealed Mr Sawyer stopped working for his wife after the General Election in June 2017 @ @ @ @ @ Authority had banned politicians from taking on “ connected ” parties as staff .

Anti-protest bill: What powers will police have under new law?
He also worked part-time as her office manager from February 2014 to August 2017.
Ms Patel stopped employing her husband after being criticised for paying him £25,000 to run her office while he held two other jobs.
The register of MPs’ interests revealed Mr Sawyer stopped working for his wife after the General Election in June 2017.
The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority had banned politicians from taking on “connected” parties as staff.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-22--Boris Johnson set to meet Trump next month as UK ramps up Brexit trade deal talks with US

Speaking to journalists at today 's Downing Street briefing , the Prime Minister 's spokesman said Boris Johnson could meet US President Donald Trump in Washington next month when he travels to the US for the G7 .
The G7 meeting summit of world leaders is due to take place from June 10-12 at Camp David .
Downing Street said it is in close contact with the White House about the event , and is keeping a close eye on the situation over the coming days .
On Thursday , the Mr Johnson 's official spokesman said : The Prime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ We are in close contact with the US in the run-up to the summit .
“ We will need to look at the details of what the US are proposing .
“ Hosting arrangements for the G7 are a matter for the country that holds the current G7 presidency , in this case the US .
“ The PM continues to work with the G7 to ensure a co-ordinated international response to the coronavirus pandemic.
” Downing Street also said Mr Johnson would `` follow guidelines '' around international travel during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is not clear whether the Prime Minister would have to enter a quarantine period of two weeks following his return to the UK in following the latest travel advice released earlier this week .
Travel restrictions are now in place for passengers from Europe .
The continent is home to four of the G7 nations - the UK , France , Germany and Italy .
READ MORE : Coronavirus map LIVE : Further 351 UK deaths in last 24hrs The US and neighbouring Canada have now agreed to keep their shared border closed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ June 21 in a further step to limit the spread of coronavirus .
But Mr Trump is determined to go ahead with the G7 summit .
The US President tweeted : `` Now that our country is ‘ Transitioning back to Greatness ’ , I am considering rescheduling the G7 , on the same or similar date , in Washington DC , at the legendary Camp David .
`` The other members are also beginning their comeback .
“ It would be a great sign to all – normalisation !
” DO N'T @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bank of England 's gloomy forecast [ COMMENT ] How Grimsby was 'decimated ' by EU 's crippling policy [ ANALYSIS ] Boris has gone from hero to zero in record time says FREDERICK FORSYTH [ OPINION ] The visit comes as the UK looks to ramp up negotiations with the US on a post-Brexit trade deal .
Earlier this week , it was announced the UK and US negotiating teams will hold two virtual meetings next month after the first formal round of talks between the two sides ended last Friday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of areas such as small and medium enterprises ( SMEs ) , financial services , investment , legal barriers to trade and agriculture .
The UK negotiators are understood to have emphasised to the US team that Britain would not be willing to compromise on food standards and reiterated the NHS would not be part of any deal .
International Trade Secretary Liz Truss said : “ A number of areas showed particular progress , including where both teams identified positive alignment between respective negotiating positions .
“ They identified a mutually @ @ @ @ @ @ @ digital trade , among other areas .
“ Both sides also set out a mutual commitment to creating new opportunities for businesses on both sides of the Atlantic and to delivering benefits for workers , consumers and farmers.
” She added the next round will see the UK and US bring detailed proposals to the negotiating table as they try to strike a “ comprehensive trade deal…at an accelerated pace ” .

Donald Trump announces that the G7 Summit 'will be on'
Speaking to journalists at today's Downing Street briefing, the Prime Minister's spokesman said Boris Johnson could meet US President Donald Trump in Washington next month when he travels to the US for the G7. The G7 meeting summit of world leaders is due to take place from June 10-12 at Camp David. Downing Street said it is in close contact with the White House about the event, and is keeping a close eye on the situation over the coming days.
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On Thursday, the Mr Johnson's official spokesman said: The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said yesterday: “We are in close contact with the US in the run-up to the summit. “We will need to look at the details of what the US are proposing. “Hosting arrangements for the G7 are a matter for the country that holds the current G7 presidency, in this case the US. “The PM continues to work with the G7 to ensure a co-ordinated international response to the coronavirus pandemic.”
Brexit news: Boris Johnson could meet Donald Trump next month as post-Brexit trade talks ramp up
Brexit news: The Prime Minister and US President could be reunited at the G7 summit
Downing Street also said Mr Johnson would "follow guidelines" around international travel during the current coronavirus crisis. But it is not clear whether the Prime Minister would have to enter a quarantine period of two weeks following his return to the UK in following the latest travel advice released earlier this week. Travel restrictions are now in place for passengers from Europe. The continent is home to four of the G7 nations - the UK, France, Germany and Italy. READ MORE: Coronavirus map LIVE: Further 351 UK deaths in last 24hrs
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Brexit news: The US and UK are currently negotiating a potentially lucrative trade deal
The US and neighbouring Canada have now agreed to keep their shared border closed to all non-essential travel until at least June 21 in a further step to limit the spread of coronavirus. But Mr Trump is determined to go ahead with the G7 summit. The US President tweeted: "Now that our country is ‘Transitioning back to Greatness’, I am considering rescheduling the G7, on the same or similar date, in Washington DC, at the legendary Camp David. "The other members are also beginning their comeback. “It would be a great sign to all – normalisation!” DON'T MISS
Jacob Rees Mogg's critique of Bank of England's gloomy forecast [COMMENT]
How Grimsby was 'decimated' by EU's crippling policy [ANALYSIS]
Boris has gone from hero to zero in record time says FREDERICK FORSYTH [OPINION]
Brexit news: Donald Trump is determined to press ahead with the G7 summit
Brexit news: Liz Truss has been encouraged by early talks with the US
The visit comes as the UK looks to ramp up negotiations with the US on a post-Brexit trade deal. Earlier this week, it was announced the UK and US negotiating teams will hold two virtual meetings next month after the first formal round of talks between the two sides ended last Friday. The opening round of talks covered a number of areas such as small and medium enterprises (SMEs), financial services, investment, legal barriers to trade and agriculture. The UK negotiators are understood to have emphasised to the US team that Britain would not be willing to compromise on food standards and reiterated the NHS would not be part of any deal.
Brexit news: The deadline for extending the transition period is on June 30
International Trade Secretary Liz Truss said: “A number of areas showed particular progress, including where both teams identified positive alignment between respective negotiating positions. “They identified a mutually high ambition for services, investment and digital trade, among other areas. “Both sides also set out a mutual commitment to creating new opportunities for businesses on both sides of the Atlantic and to delivering benefits for workers, consumers and farmers.” She added the next round will see the UK and US bring detailed proposals to the negotiating table as they try to strike a “comprehensive trade deal…at an accelerated pace”.
Brexit news: Talks between the UK and EU are descending into chaos


thedailyexpress--2020-05-23--Lockdown POLL: Should Dominic Cummings resign after claims he broke lockdown rules? VOTE

The No10 adviser was spotted at his parents ’ home in Durham , 260 miles from London , in early April after he developed coronavirus symptoms .
A joint investigation by the Mirror and the Guardian found that he made the journey from London to Durham during the height of the lockdown shortly after he was seen running out of Downing Street when Boris Johnson tested positive for coronavirus in late March .
Mr Johnson had told people they “ must stay at home ” in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19 .
Police are understood to have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Durham property by a member of the public .
Durham Constabulary have confirmed officers contacted the homeowners about the matter , but Downing Street has said neither Mr Cummings nor his parents were spoken to by police .
A spokesman for the force told the Guardian : “ On Tuesday , March 31 , our officers were made aware of reports that an individual had travelled from London to Durham and was present at an address in the city .
“ Officers made contact with the owners of that address who confirmed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and was self-isolating in part of the house .
“ In line with national policing guidance , officers explained to the family the guidelines around self-isolation and reiterated the appropriate advice around essential travel.
” SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford MP said the aide 's position was `` completely untenable '' .
He said : `` He must resign or be sacked.
” Sir Ed Davey , acting leader of the Liberal Democrats , called for Mr Cummings to quit over the allegations .
A spokesman for Labour said : `` The British @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one rule for them and another rule for Dominic Cummings . ''
As the news broke on Saturday morning , Downing Street issued a statement vehemently denying Mr Cummings had flouted lockdown rules .
They said the No10 adviser had travelled up north with his child but had not stayed with his parents ’ .
The statement read : “ Owing to his wife being infected with suspected coronavirus and the high likelihood that he would himself become unwell , it was essential for Dominic Cummings to ensure his young child could be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and nieces had volunteered to help so he went to a house near to but separate from his extended family in case their help was needed .
“ His sister shopped for the family and left everything outside .
“ At no stage was he or his family spoken to by the police about this matter , as is being reported .
“ His actions were in line with coronavirus guidelines .
DO N'T MISS Fears Dominic Cummings ’ actions will affect ‘ readiness ’ of Brits [ INSIGHT ] Piers Morgan demands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ VIDEO ] Dominic Cummings investigated by police for breaking lockdown rules [ ANALYSIS ] “ Mr Cummings believes he behaved reasonably and legally.
” The Prime Minister 's adviser stood by his decision to travel to Durham when questioned by reporters on Saturday morning .
He told the PA news agency : “ I behaved reasonably and legally . ''
When asked if his trip up north looked good in the middle of the pandemic lockdown , he replied : “ Who cares about good looks .
`` It ’ s a question @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s not about what you guys think.
” The development will not doubt irritate the public who have been in lockdown for two months .
Millions are facing their ninth weekend under strict measures and some will have no choice but to spend the bank holiday weekend apart from family members .
The Guardian reported that Mr Cummings , 48 , was spotted near the gate of his parents ’ home with a young child – believed to be his son - at around 5.45pm on Sunday April 5 .
The sighting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after police received a report about Mr Cummings in Durham .

Dominic Cummings: Ian Blackford grilled over call for resignation
The No10 adviser was spotted at his parents’ home in Durham, 260 miles from London, in early April after he developed coronavirus symptoms. A joint investigation by the Mirror and the Guardian found that he made the journey from London to Durham during the height of the lockdown shortly after he was seen running out of Downing Street when Boris Johnson tested positive for coronavirus in late March. Mr Johnson had told people they “must stay at home” in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19. This poll has now closed. Click here for the results.
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Police are understood to have been notified of Mr Cummings presence at the Durham property by a member of the public. Durham Constabulary have confirmed officers contacted the homeowners about the matter, but Downing Street has said neither Mr Cummings nor his parents were spoken to by police. A spokesman for the force told the Guardian: “On Tuesday, March 31, our officers were made aware of reports that an individual had travelled from London to Durham and was present at an address in the city. “Officers made contact with the owners of that address who confirmed that the individual in question was present and was self-isolating in part of the house. “In line with national policing guidance, officers explained to the family the guidelines around self-isolation and reiterated the appropriate advice around essential travel.”
POLL: Do you think Dominic Cummings should resign over his alleged breach of the lockdown rules?
Political leaders have called on Dominic Cummings to resign
SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford MP said the aide's position was "completely untenable". He said: "He must resign or be sacked.” Sir Ed Davey, acting leader of the Liberal Democrats, called for Mr Cummings to quit over the allegations. A spokesman for Labour said: "The British people do not expect there to be one rule for them and another rule for Dominic Cummings." As the news broke on Saturday morning, Downing Street issued a statement vehemently denying Mr Cummings had flouted lockdown rules. READ MORE: Dominic Cummings: Salary revealed - adviser breaks coronavirus rules
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They said the No10 adviser had travelled up north with his child but had not stayed with his parents’. The statement read: “Owing to his wife being infected with suspected coronavirus and the high likelihood that he would himself become unwell, it was essential for Dominic Cummings to ensure his young child could be properly cared for. “His sister and nieces had volunteered to help so he went to a house near to but separate from his extended family in case their help was needed. “His sister shopped for the family and left everything outside. “At no stage was he or his family spoken to by the police about this matter, as is being reported. “His actions were in line with coronavirus guidelines. DON'T MISS
Fears Dominic Cummings’ actions will affect ‘readiness’ of Brits [INSIGHT]
Piers Morgan demands Cummings RESIGN over alleged lockdown breach [VIDEO]
Dominic Cummings investigated by police for breaking lockdown rules [ANALYSIS]
Dominic Cummings developed coronavirus symptoms in late March
Boris Johnson has backed Dominic Cummings over the row about his alleged breach of lockdown rules
“Mr Cummings believes he behaved reasonably and legally.” The Prime Minister's adviser stood by his decision to travel to Durham when questioned by reporters on Saturday morning. He told the PA news agency: “I behaved reasonably and legally." When asked if his trip up north looked good in the middle of the pandemic lockdown, he replied: “Who cares about good looks. "It’s a question of doing the right thing. It’s not about what you guys think.”
A police officer speaks to members of the public in a park
The development will not doubt irritate the public who have been in lockdown for two months. Millions are facing their ninth weekend under strict measures and some will have no choice but to spend the bank holiday weekend apart from family members. The Guardian reported that Mr Cummings, 48, was spotted near the gate of his parents’ home with a young child – believed to be his son - at around 5.45pm on Sunday April 5. The sighting is said to have happened five days after police received a report about Mr Cummings in Durham.
UK coronavirus map live
Hours after he was allegedly seen on April 5, Mr Johnson was admitted to hospital suffering from coronavirus. An unnamed neighbour said they saw Mr Cummings in the garden of his parents’ home five days after police are believed to have contacted the family on March 31. They said Abba's Dancing Queen was playing loudly. They said: "I got the shock of my life, as I looked over to the gates and saw him. "I recognised Dominic Cummings, he's a very distinctive figure."
Police patrol a park during the lockdown


thedailyexpress--2020-05-23--Dominic Cummings wife: Who is Mary Wakefield? How old is their child?

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Prime Minister Boris Johnson ’ s top aide Dominic Cummings travelled 260 miles from London to his family home in County Durham during lockdown .
Police have confirmed they attended a property in Durham after it emerged Mr Cummings , stayed with relatives while he and members of his immediate family , including wife Mary Wakefield , were suffering from coronavirus-related symptoms .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s commitment to the “ stay at home ” message it was repeating to the public in the first stage of the lockdown .
No 10 has defended the move saying “ it was essential for Mr Cummings to ensure his young child could be properly cared for.
” Downing Street added Mr Cummings believed he `` behaved reasonably and legally '' when travelling from his London home to Country Durham during the lockdown ” .
A Number 10 spokesman said : `` Owing to his wife being infected with suspected coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ himself become unwell , it was essential for Dominic Cummings to ensure his young child could be properly cared for .
READ MORE : Lockdown POLL : Should Dominic Cummings resign over alleged breach ?

Dominic Cummings investigated for 'breaching lockdown rules'
Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s top aide Dominic Cummings travelled 260 miles from London to his family home in County Durham during lockdown. Police have confirmed they attended a property in Durham after it emerged Mr Cummings stayed with relatives while he and wife Mary Wakefield were suffering from coronavirus-related symptoms. Speaking from Downing Street on Monday, Mr Cummings confirmed the couple went to his parents' home to self-isolate so he would have access to childcare should he or his wife become incapacitated.
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In the hour-long press conference, the senior aide refused to apologise for his actions, although he conceded that "reasonable people may well disagree about how I thought about what to do in the circumstances". But he spoke further fury when he said: "I don't regret what I did... I think what I did was actually reasonable in these circumstances. The rules made clear that if you are dealing with small children that can be exceptional circumstances. "And I think that the situation that I was in was exceptional circumstances, and the way that I dealt with it was the least risk to everybody concerned if my wife and I had both been unable to look after our four-year-old." He also revealed that despite the backlash he has "not considered" resigning.
Dominic Cummings wife: Mary Wakefield and Dominic Cummings married in 2011
Dominic Cummings has been accused of breaching lockdown rules
READ MORE Piers Morgan rages lockdown's over if PM doesn't FIRE Dominic Cummings No 10 has defended the move saying “it was essential for Mr Cummings to ensure his young child could be properly cared for.” Mr Cummings said he did the "right thing" by travelling to his family because he wanted to ensure he had childcare if he got symptoms. Downing Street added Mr Cummings believed he "behaved reasonably and legally" when travelling from his London home to Country Durham during the lockdown”. A Number 10 spokesman said: "Owing to his wife being infected with suspected coronavirus and the high likelihood that he would himself become unwell, it was essential for Dominic Cummings to ensure his young child could be properly cared for. "His sister and nieces had volunteered to help so he went to a house near to but separate from his extended family in case their help was needed. "His sister shopped for the family and left everything outside. At no stage was he or his family spoken to by the police about this matter, as is being reported. "His actions were in line with coronavirus guidelines. Mr Cummings believes he behaved reasonably and legally." Members of the cabinet have also lined up to defend the Prime Minister’s top aide, while the PM himself conducted Sunday night's press conference to respond to the allegations.
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Dominic Cummings has been defended by Downing Street
Speaking on Sundya, May 24, Mr Johnson said: "I can tell you today I have had extensive face to face conversations with Dominic Cummings and I have concluded that in travelling to find the right kind of childcare, at the moment when both he and his wife were about to be incapacitated by coronavirus. "And when he had no alternative, I think he followed the instincts of every father and every parent. And I do not mark him down for that. And though there have been many other allegations about what happened when he was in self-isolation and thereafter, some of them palpably false. "I believe that in every respect he has acted responsibly, and legally, and with integrity, and with the overwhelming aim of stopping the spread of the virus and saving lives. "And I stress this fundamental aim, because it is thanks to this country’s collective resolve in achieving that aim that we continue to make progress." DON'T MISS
Dominic Cummings: Salary revealed - adviser breaks coronavirus rules [INSIGHT]
Coronavirus: Economist analyses ‘Dominic Cummings' treasury takeover’ [ANALYSIS]
Prepare for no deal Brexit! Dominic Cummings panics EU leaders [COMMENT]
READ MORE Gove ridicules SNP's authority following demands for Brexit extension Who is Mary Wakefield? Ms Wakefield is a journalist, columnist and commissioning editor for The Spectator. She has worked at the weekly magazine The Spectator for decades and was working at the weekly current affairs magazine when Boris Johnson was editor. She has also written for The Sun, Daily Mail, The Telegraph and The Times. Ms Wakefield has written in The Spectator about her experience when both she and Mr Cummings contracted COVID-19. The Prime Minister’s top aide was so badly affected by coronavirus he “should have been in hospital”, his wife has revealed. Writing in The Spectator, Ms Wakefield described how she was stricken by the disease first and her “kind” husband had rushed home to look after her. However, she went on, 24 hours later Mr Cummings said he felt “weird” and collapsed.
Dominic Cummings wife: Mary Wakefield is a journalist and editor for The Spectator


thedailyexpress--2020-05-23--Coronavirus latest: UK borrowing soars to record monthly high amid pandemic

The eye-watering figure , brought on by the coronavirus outbreak , was £51billion higher in April than during the same month last year .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak 's support package for firms hit by the lockdown along with plummeting tax revenues saw the state debt levels soar .
Government income from duty slumped by 26.5 percent during April compared with the same month last year , according to figures from the Office for National Statistics .
The total borrowing amount was significantly higher than the £30billion forecast by City of London analysts .
But it was lower than the £66billion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Responsibility last month .
The Prime Minister 's spokesman said : `` We are seeing the very significant impact of coronavirus on our country and our economy .
`` Our priority is to support people , jobs and businesses through the crisis and ensure our economic recovery is as strong and swift as possible .
`` The Chancellor has spoken about the need to right the ship but also has said our focus for now is rightly on supporting people through the current crisis . ''
The ONS warned that the borrowing figure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even higher once more data on the impact of the crisis is available .
It also revised the Government borrowing total for March from £11.7billion to £14.7billion yesterday after recording lower tax and National Insurance receipts than expected .
As a result of the jump in borrowing , public sector debt rose to £1,887billion at the end of April - £118.4billion higher than in April 2019 .
The ONS said the Government borrowed £62.7billion over the 12 months to the end of March , representing a £22.5billion rise on the previous year .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ TaxPayers ' Alliance , said : `` Government borrowing is now breaking records thanks to this crisis , with this being the largest proportionate annual increase in Treasury on year debt since D-Day .
Tax revenues are down by a quarter and spending up by more than half on last year .
`` The Government has borrowed more in one month than it did in the five months following the 2008 bailout .
`` Back then , the recovery was slow , stilted and unevenly distributed .
This time , Britain has to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fiscal deficit driven by the deepest slump in living memory would be crazy .
`` Priority one must be to get the economy back up and running , with tax cuts on jobs and investment being the only way to power us towards growth again . ''
Julian Jessop , from the Institute of Economic Affairs , said : `` The April numbers were awful .
A temporary increase in borrowing is a price worth paying to save lives and protect businesses and jobs from a one-off shock like coronavirus . ''
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to wean the UK off this extraordinary level of state subsidy as soon as possible .

Rishi Sunak warned 'borrowing will continue' by Alister Jack
The eye-watering figure, brought on by the coronavirus outbreak, was £51billion higher in April than during the same month last year. Chancellor Rishi Sunak's support package for firms hit by the lockdown along with plummeting tax revenues saw the state debt levels soar.
Government income from duty slumped by 26.5 percent during April compared with the same month last year, according to figures from the Office for National Statistics. The total borrowing amount was significantly higher than the £30billion forecast by City of London analysts. But it was lower than the £66billion estimate made by the Office for Budget Responsibility last month. The Prime Minister's spokesman said: "We are seeing the very significant impact of coronavirus on our country and our economy. "Our priority is to support people, jobs and businesses through the crisis and ensure our economic recovery is as strong and swift as possible. "The Chancellor has spoken about the need to right the ship but also has said our focus for now is rightly on supporting people through the current crisis."
UK borrowing soars to record monthly high
Chancellor Rishi Sunak's support package for companies saw the state debt levels soar
The ONS warned that the borrowing figure for last month could prove to be even higher once more data on the impact of the crisis is available. It also revised the Government borrowing total for March from £11.7billion to £14.7billion yesterday after recording lower tax and National Insurance receipts than expected. As a result of the jump in borrowing, public sector debt rose to £1,887billion at the end of April - £118.4billion higher than in April 2019. The ONS said the Government borrowed £62.7billion over the 12 months to the end of March, representing a £22.5billion rise on the previous year. John O'Connell, chief executive of the TaxPayers' Alliance, said: "Government borrowing is now breaking records thanks to this crisis, with this being the largest proportionate annual increase in Treasury on year debt since D-Day. Tax revenues are down by a quarter and spending up by more than half on last year. "The Government has borrowed more in one month than it did in the five months following the 2008 bailout.
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thedailyexpress--2020-05-23--We need a plan for economic recovery, says George Osborne

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The former chancellor called on the Government to set out its longer-term plan to instil confidence in the markets .
Asked if he thinks the economy will `` bounce back '' , he told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme : `` I 'm not sure bounce is the right word .
I think it will recover .
`` In fact , I think the damage being done alone is actually less than the damage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because that completely clogged up all the credit system .
The drop is much sharper , this quarter of the year is an extraordinary fall in GDP .
`` I think the recovery can be quicker and the overall damage can be less but if I was in the Government now I would be starting to set out what my longer-term plan is , not just on the deficit but getting people who are unemployed back into work . ''
Mr Osborne , who now edits the Evening Standard newspaper , added : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to terms with the fact that Britain like every other country is poorer than we thought it was going to be and our economy is smaller than we thought it would be .

The former chancellor called on the Government to set out its longer-term plan to instil confidence in the markets. Asked if he thinks the economy will "bounce back", he told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "I'm not sure bounce is the right word. I think it will recover.
"In fact, I think the damage being done alone is actually less than the damage that was done during the banking crisis because that completely clogged up all the credit system. The drop is much sharper, this quarter of the year is an extraordinary fall in GDP.
"I think the recovery can be quicker and the overall damage can be less but if I was in the Government now I would be starting to set out what my longer-term plan is, not just on the deficit but getting people who are unemployed back into work."
Mr Osborne, who now edits the Evening Standard newspaper, added: "Over time we've to come to terms with the fact that Britain like every other country is poorer than we thought it was going to be and our economy is smaller than we thought it would be.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-23--Downing Street urges China to respect Hong Kong’s freedom

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China 's ruling Communist Party said it wants to ban `` treason , secession , sedition and subversion '' .
Pro-democracy activists descended on China 's Liaison Office in Hong Kong as the government said it would cooperate to enact the law , claiming it would not affect the city 's freedoms .
Boris Johnson 's spokesman said : `` We are monitoring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ respect Hong Kong 's rights and freedoms and high degree of autonomy .
Boris Johnson orders China be cut from the UK 's 5G infrastructure '' The UK is committed to respecting ... the one country , two systems model . ''
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo branded the `` disastrous proposal '' a `` death knell for the high degree of autonomy that Beijing promised for Hong Kong '' .
The law is seen as a response to Hong Kong 's pro-democracy protests which began last June , with Beijing targeting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subversion of state power and foreign interference .

China's ruling Communist Party said it wants to ban "treason, secession, sedition and subversion". Pro-democracy activists descended on China's Liaison Office in Hong Kong as the government said it would cooperate to enact the law, claiming it would not affect the city's freedoms. Boris Johnson's spokesman said: "We are monitoring the situation closely and expect China to respect Hong Kong's rights and freedoms and high degree of autonomy.
Boris Johnson orders China be cut from the UK's 5G infrastructure
"The UK is committed to respecting... the one country, two systems model."
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo branded the "disastrous proposal" a "death knell for the high degree of autonomy that Beijing promised for Hong Kong".
The law is seen as a response to Hong Kong's pro-democracy protests which began last June, with Beijing targeting what it calls terrorism, independence, subversion of state power and foreign interference.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-23--NHS could solve nurse shortages with redundant airline staff as UK struck by 40k vacancies

Sir Simon Stevens , the chief executive of NHS England , predicted that many former employees from struggling industries including aviation could retrain as frontline healthcare professionals .
Data showed there are currently around 40,000 vacancies for NHS nurses .
Speaking to a hearing of the Public Accounts Committee held by video conference , Sir Simon expected `` disruption to international recruitment for the first part of this year if not beyond '' meaning more NHS staff will need to be sourced from within the UK .
He said : `` We think there will be new opportunities to provide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from occupations for which there are going to be less demand in the economy .
`` To take one example , in the early 2000s , the NHS was losing nurses to the airlines , to airline crews , and it may well be that the airlines are going to be under some significant pressure , and perhaps we can think about recruiting back the other way . ''
Since lockdown began , airlines have been forced to make thousands of redundancies , including 3,150 at Virgin Atlantic and 3,000 at Ryanair , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Sir Simon added that the Department of Health , which controls the budget for health education in England , will also `` need to think much more flexibly and creatively about new routes into nursing and other health disciplines '' to plug the nursing deficit .
`` If you think about what is happening in the university sector , the big shift that happened almost overnight was to a lot of education having to be online , '' he said .
`` We 've got an opportunity to do more of that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , so that people can earn and learn with more flexibility rather than having to take three years out of the labour market if they are mid-career . ''
NHS England medical director Stephen Powis told the hearing that volunteers , medical students and some 18,900 retired professionals have plugged the nursing deficit amid increased demand recently .
But he admitted the situation was `` not sustainable '' .
Prof Powis said : `` Not only are we going to have to live with Covid as a background , but we are going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ case we see another surge , another peak , another wave .
`` We are going to have a different health service than the one we left in January . ''

Kate Middleton and Sophie Wessex give thanks to nurses
Sir Simon Stevens, the chief executive of NHS England, predicted that many former employees from struggling industries including aviation could retrain as frontline healthcare professionals. Data showed there are currently around 40,000 vacancies for NHS nurses.
Speaking to a hearing of the Public Accounts Committee held by video conference, Sir Simon expected "disruption to international recruitment for the first part of this year if not beyond" meaning more NHS staff will need to be sourced from within the UK. He said: "We think there will be new opportunities to provide routes into nursing and healthcare professions perhaps from occupations for which there are going to be less demand in the economy. "To take one example, in the early 2000s, the NHS was losing nurses to the airlines, to airline crews, and it may well be that the airlines are going to be under some significant pressure, and perhaps we can think about recruiting back the other way."
NHS could solve nurse shortages with redundant airline staff as UK struck by 40k vacancies
Sir Simon Stevens, the chief executive of NHS England
Since lockdown began, airlines have been forced to make thousands of redundancies, including 3,150 at Virgin Atlantic and 3,000 at Ryanair, while regional airline Flybe has ceased trading. Sir Simon added that the Department of Health, which controls the budget for health education in England, will also "need to think much more flexibly and creatively about new routes into nursing and other health disciplines" to plug the nursing deficit. "If you think about what is happening in the university sector, the big shift that happened almost overnight was to a lot of education having to be online," he said. "We've got an opportunity to do more of that, for example with nurse graduate degrees, so that people can earn and learn with more flexibility rather than having to take three years out of the labour market if they are mid-career."
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thedailyexpress--2020-05-23--Reason why widespread track and trace was abandoned in March revealed

Professor John Newton told MPs that attempting to copy the successful South Korean mass testing model was seen as “ not worthwhile ” in the face of fears the outbreak was running out of control .
He also admitted that more than half of the coronavirus home-testing kits sent out during the crisis had not been returned .
Prof Newton spoke out yesterday at a hearing of the Commons Science and Technology Committee amid growing questions about the Government decision to scrap mass testing in the early weeks of the epidemic ’ s spread in the UK .
He told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ towards imposing lockdown rather than tracing infections because scientific modelling warned of an explosion in cases .
`` The epidemiology was crucial , we had an increase in the number of cases in March , the advice from modellers was that within a short period we would expect to be having a million cases in the UK and of course if you have a million cases there 's no way , however much contact tracing or testing capacity you have , that you can pursue the South Korea model .
`` At that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move to lockdown as the most appropriate response to the epidemiology in the UK at the time , ” he said .
Prof Newton said there had been a discussion in the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( Sage ) which established that it would `` not be worthwhile '' to continue contact tracing once community transmission took hold in the UK .
`` When in March it became apparent that community transmission was occurring and we had multiple injections , introductions from different countries in the UK , that decision was then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` It was a decision of course of Government , informed by all its advisers , not just Public Health England . ''
He added : `` The epidemiology was crucial , we had an increase in the number of cases in March .
`` The advice from modellers was that within a short period we would expect to be having a million cases in the UK , and of course if you have a million cases there 's no way , however much contact tracing or testing capacity you have , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ model .
`` At that point , the Government made the decision to move to lockdown as the most appropriate response to the epidemiology in the UK at the time . ''
Prof Newton also told the Science and Technology Select Committee that more than half of the home testing kits sent out had been returned , but he did not have an up-to-date figure .
He added : `` I think certainly more than half , and we would like to get that amount up .
`` A lot of the ones @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not home tests , they were the satellite tests sent out to care homes . ''
When pressed on the current return rate he said he would provide it to the committee after the session .
Prof Newton added : `` I am afraid I do n't have that figure but it can be provided . ''
He also told the committee members of the public should not rely on antibody tests bought over the internet .
When asked about new tests that have been made available by firms including Superdrug , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the public soon .
He said : `` The public need to be aware that those tests are not the same as those we have evaluated and approved for use .
`` The laboratory-based tests have a much higher standard of accuracy .
`` We would n't recommend at the moment that people rely on the tests that are becoming widely available .
`` My advice would be to wait until we have better tests which will be available in a similar form very soon , though they are still under evaluation at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ committee hearing , the medical director of Public Health England told MPs that widespread testing and contact tracing was stopped in mid-March due to the `` sheer scale of cases in the UK '' .
Prof Yvonne Doyle , PHE 's medical director said many hundreds of thousands of people had been exposed to coronavirus by the time testing and tracing was stopped around March 12 .
Prof Doyle told MPs the policy decision was to very much focus on the NHS in terms of testing and that , given the testing resources @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stop more widespread community testing and tracing .
She said it was stopped in March `` because of the sheer scale of cases in the UK , which had been introduced by multiple introductions , particularly after half-term , and from European countries we now know had large amounts of prevalence themselves '' .
She added : `` So we have multiple introductions , with many hundreds of thousands of people by March who had now been exposed to this virus in this country .
`` Contact tracing could not possibly have had @ @ @ @ @ @

Care homes: Newton admits UK has no plans to test every week
Professor John Newton told MPs that attempting to copy the successful South Korean mass testing model was seen as “not worthwhile” in the face of fears the outbreak was running out of control. He also admitted that more than half of the coronavirus home-testing kits sent out during the crisis had not been returned. Prof Newton spoke out yesterday at a hearing of the Commons Science and Technology Committee amid growing questions about the Government decision to scrap mass testing in the early weeks of the epidemic’s spread in the UK.
He told the committee the Government switched its strategy towards imposing lockdown rather than tracing infections because scientific modelling warned of an explosion in cases. "The epidemiology was crucial, we had an increase in the number of cases in March, the advice from modellers was that within a short period we would expect to be having a million cases in the UK and of course if you have a million cases there's no way, however much contact tracing or testing capacity you have, that you can pursue the South Korea model. "At that point the Government made the decision to move to lockdown as the most appropriate response to the epidemiology in the UK at the time,” he said. Prof Newton said there had been a discussion in the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) which established that it would "not be worthwhile" to continue contact tracing once community transmission took hold in the UK. "When in March it became apparent that community transmission was occurring and we had multiple injections, introductions from different countries in the UK, that decision was then enacted," Prof Newton told MPs. "It was a decision of course of Government, informed by all its advisers, not just Public Health England."
Professor John Newton
He added: "The epidemiology was crucial, we had an increase in the number of cases in March. "The advice from modellers was that within a short period we would expect to be having a million cases in the UK, and of course if you have a million cases there's no way, however much contact tracing or testing capacity you have, that you can pursue the South Korea model. "At that point, the Government made the decision to move to lockdown as the most appropriate response to the epidemiology in the UK at the time." Prof Newton also told the Science and Technology Select Committee that more than half of the home testing kits sent out had been returned, but he did not have an up-to-date figure. He added: "I think certainly more than half, and we would like to get that amount up. "A lot of the ones which were counted as they left were not home tests, they were the satellite tests sent out to care homes." When pressed on the current return rate he said he would provide it to the committee after the session.
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Prof Newton added: "I am afraid I don't have that figure but it can be provided." He also told the committee members of the public should not rely on antibody tests bought over the internet. When asked about new tests that have been made available by firms including Superdrug, he said better tests would be available to the public soon. He said: "The public need to be aware that those tests are not the same as those we have evaluated and approved for use. "The laboratory-based tests have a much higher standard of accuracy. "We wouldn't recommend at the moment that people rely on the tests that are becoming widely available. "My advice would be to wait until we have better tests which will be available in a similar form very soon, though they are still under evaluation at the moment." At the same committee hearing, the medical director of Public Health England told MPs that widespread testing and contact tracing was stopped in mid-March due to the "sheer scale of cases in the UK".
Testing: Sage member admits stopping testing was a ‘mistake’
Prof Yvonne Doyle, PHE's medical director said many hundreds of thousands of people had been exposed to coronavirus by the time testing and tracing was stopped around March 12. Prof Doyle told MPs the policy decision was to very much focus on the NHS in terms of testing and that, given the testing resources available, a decision was taken to stop more widespread community testing and tracing. She said it was stopped in March "because of the sheer scale of cases in the UK, which had been introduced by multiple introductions, particularly after half-term, and from European countries we now know had large amounts of prevalence themselves". She added: "So we have multiple introductions, with many hundreds of thousands of people by March who had now been exposed to this virus in this country. "Contact tracing could not possibly have had the capacity to address that.
Medical Director at Public Health England Professor Yvonne Doyle


thedailyexpress--2020-05-23--Mortgage holiday extended until end of October as homeowners still struggling

More than 1.8million homeowners have taken three-month breaks from their monthly loan repayments since Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced the measure in March .
The support was due to expire at the end of next month but will now be extended until the end of October .
Some homeowners will also be able to resume mortgage payments at a lower rate temporarily under the scheme .
A ban on home repossessions will also be extended for the same period .
John Glen , the Economic Secretary to the Treasury , said : “ We ’ re doing everything we can to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ difficult time , and that includes making sure people get the support they need with their mortgages .
“ That ’ s why we ’ re working with the banks and lenders to extend payment holidays if people need them .
“ Everyone ’ s circumstances will be different , so when homeowners can pay some or all of their mortgage , they should work with their lender on a plan .
“ But if they are still struggling , I want them to know that help is there.
” Homeowners already taking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lengthen the break for up to another three months while new applicants will also be able to apply for the scheme under the extension .
Treasury officials are advising homeowners that re-starting mortgage payments as soon as they can afford to is in their interest because they will still have to pay the full cost of the mortgage eventually and could end up paying more in the long run .
The Financial Conduct Authority ( FCA ) yesterday published new guidance today for banks and other lenders explaining their obligations under the Treasury @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chief executive at the FCA , said : “ Our expectations are clear – anyone who continues to need help should get help from their lender .
“ We expect firms to work with customers on the best options available for them , paying particular attention to the needs of their vulnerable customers , and to provide information on where to access help and advice.
” He added : “ Where consumers can afford to re-start mortgage payments , it is in their best interests to do so .
But where they can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support will be available .
People who are struggling and have not had a mortgage payment holiday , will also continue to be able to apply until 31 October.
” Lenders will be expected to contact homeowners who are nearing the end of their existing mortgage holiday to discuss the next steps forward .
The customers will be offered a choice between extending the payment break , resuming full or partial payments or temporarily switching to an interest-only mortgage .
Borrowers who choose to resume with their mortgage payments will be given options @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extending their mortgage in order to keep the monthly cost at the same level as before the mortgage holiday .
The Financial Conduct Authority yesterday launched a brief public consultation process on the extension , inviting comments on the move to be submitted by 5pm next Tuesday .

Martin Lewis explains if you should take a mortgage holiday
More than 1.8million homeowners have taken three-month breaks from their monthly loan repayments since Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced the measure in March. The support was due to expire at the end of next month but will now be extended until the end of October.
Some homeowners will also be able to resume mortgage payments at a lower rate temporarily under the scheme. A ban on home repossessions will also be extended for the same period. John Glen, the Economic Secretary to the Treasury, said: “We’re doing everything we can to help people with their finances at this difficult time, and that includes making sure people get the support they need with their mortgages. “That’s why we’re working with the banks and lenders to extend payment holidays if people need them.
Mortgage holiday extended until end of October
Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced the mortgage breaks in March
“Everyone’s circumstances will be different, so when homeowners can pay some or all of their mortgage, they should work with their lender on a plan. “But if they are still struggling, I want them to know that help is there.” Homeowners already taking a mortgage holiday will be able to lengthen the break for up to another three months while new applicants will also be able to apply for the scheme under the extension. Treasury officials are advising homeowners that re-starting mortgage payments as soon as they can afford to is in their interest because they will still have to pay the full cost of the mortgage eventually and could end up paying more in the long run.
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The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) yesterday published new guidance today for banks and other lenders explaining their obligations under the Treasury scheme. Christopher Woolard, the interim chief executive at the FCA, said: “Our expectations are clear – anyone who continues to need help should get help from their lender. “We expect firms to work with customers on the best options available for them, paying particular attention to the needs of their vulnerable customers, and to provide information on where to access help and advice.” He added: “Where consumers can afford to re-start mortgage payments, it is in their best interests to do so. But where they can’t, a range of further support will be available. People who are struggling and have not had a mortgage payment holiday, will also continue to be able to apply until 31 October.”
Homeowners already taking a mortgage holiday will be able to lengthen the break for up to another three months
Lenders will be expected to contact homeowners who are nearing the end of their existing mortgage holiday to discuss the next steps forward. The customers will be offered a choice between extending the payment break, resuming full or partial payments or temporarily switching to an interest-only mortgage. Borrowers who choose to resume with their mortgage payments will be given options on how best to do so including extending their mortgage in order to keep the monthly cost at the same level as before the mortgage holiday. The Financial Conduct Authority yesterday launched a brief public consultation process on the extension, inviting comments on the move to be submitted by 5pm next Tuesday.
The Financial Conduct Authority yesterday launched a brief public consultation process on the extension


thedailyexpress--2020-05-23--Priti Patel husband: Is the Home Secretary married? Does she have children?