thedailyexpress--2020-07-31--Remainers accused of scapegoating Brexit for downturn in UK economy... despite coronavirus

A report by the London School of Economics ( LSE ) claims `` Brexit will have a profound impact on the UK economy '' , as it warns business conditions will worsen for most sectors , even those that managed to avoid the negative impact of the coronavirus lockdown .
In response one Tory MP has suggested the document exaggerates the negative impact of Brexit on the economy and argues the pandemic will have caused the brunt of the downturn .
The report , 'COVID-19 and Brexit : Real-Time Updates on Business Performance in the United Kingdom ' by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , warns Brexit will negatively impact the UK economy as new structures arise at the conclusion of the EU transition period .
It states that transitioning to new trade and investment rules will be difficult and costly for many businesses .
One of the paper 's authors , Josh de Lyon , a research assistant at the LSE centre , even predicts the `` biggest slowdown of our lifetime '' is on the way .
But Tory MP Jo Gideon has criticised the report and argues the coronavirus will have the largest and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ economy .
Ms Gideon , who became the first Tory MP to win the Stoke-on-Trent Central seat in the December 2019 election , also believes the UK is strong enough to withstand the economic downturn - especially once we have completely left the EU .
She told Express.co.uk : `` I think the economy will be impacted far more by the coronavirus than Brexit .
`` The economic independence that we gain will ultimately be in the best interests in businesses and people .
`` It will probably be hard to quantify with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pandemic , what element of that downturn would have been different had there been a different outcome to the referendum .
JUST IN : Labour Party in humiliating data breach as confidential info stolen '' Those who wish to attribute it to Brexit will no doubt do that . ''
The MP added : `` There isn ’ t a country in the world that won ’ t be affected by the fallout of the pandemic on their economies .
`` I think the resilience that this country has shown and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will stand us in good stead going forward to seize new opportunities . ''
The LSE report does acknowledge that the pandemic caused the worst recession in more than three centuries , as GDP plunged by a whopping 20 percent in April .
DO N'T MISS : Fishing FURY : Ireland warns of 'skirmishes at sea ' with UK boats [ INSIGHT ] EU brags 'self-involved ’ Britain can ’ t see Brexit is not on radar [ ANALYSIS ] Brexit breakthrough : Brexiteer reveals how UK will FORCE EU backdown [ DETAILS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' from Brexit and coronavirus will be felt across the business spectrum .
But as Ms Gideon points out , it will be hard to distinguish the impact of Brexit to that of the global pandemic .
Yet the report states : `` The two forces of COVID-19 and Brexit are impacting more sectors of the economy than each would in isolation . ''
The Tory MP suggests the Government need to focus on `` reformatting and reshaping the economy '' , which the Chancellor has already started to do through his unprecedented @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Brexit: UK to regain ‘former greatness’ after exit claims fisherman
A report by the London School of Economics (LSE) claims "Brexit will have a profound impact on the UK economy", as it warns business conditions will worsen for most sectors, even those that managed to avoid the negative impact of the coronavirus lockdown. In response one Tory MP has suggested the document exaggerates the negative impact of Brexit on the economy and argues the pandemic will have caused the brunt of the downturn.
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The report, 'COVID-19 and Brexit: Real-Time Updates on Business Performance in the United Kingdom' by the LSE’s Centre for Economic Performance, warns Brexit will negatively impact the UK economy as new structures arise at the conclusion of the EU transition period. It states that transitioning to new trade and investment rules will be difficult and costly for many businesses. One of the paper's authors, Josh de Lyon, a research assistant at the LSE centre, even predicts the "biggest slowdown of our lifetime" is on the way. But Tory MP Jo Gideon has criticised the report and argues the coronavirus will have the largest and most overarching impact on the UK's economy.
Remainers have been criticised for already blaming Brexit for the UK economic downturn
A report by the London School of Economics (LSE) claims "Brexit will have a profound impact on the UK economy"
Ms Gideon, who became the first Tory MP to win the Stoke-on-Trent Central seat in the December 2019 election, also believes the UK is strong enough to withstand the economic downturn - especially once we have completely left the EU. She told Express.co.uk: "I think the economy will be impacted far more by the coronavirus than Brexit. "The economic independence that we gain will ultimately be in the best interests in businesses and people. "It will probably be hard to quantify with an economic downturn as a result of the pandemic, what element of that downturn would have been different had there been a different outcome to the referendum. JUST IN: Labour Party in humiliating data breach as confidential info stolen
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The coronavirus lockdown caused UK GDP to drop by 20 percent in April
"Those who wish to attribute it to Brexit will no doubt do that." The MP added: "There isn’t a country in the world that won’t be affected by the fallout of the pandemic on their economies. "I think the resilience that this country has shown and the spirit that we have experienced during COVID will stand us in good stead going forward to seize new opportunities." The LSE report does acknowledge that the pandemic caused the worst recession in more than three centuries, as GDP plunged by a whopping 20 percent in April. DON'T MISS:
Fishing FURY: Ireland warns of 'skirmishes at sea' with UK boats [INSIGHT]
EU brags 'self-involved’ Britain can’t see Brexit is not on radar [ANALYSIS]
Brexit breakthrough: Brexiteer reveals how UK will FORCE EU backdown [DETAILS]
The coronavirus lockdown negatively affected the retail sector
It states a "simultaneous impact" from Brexit and coronavirus will be felt across the business spectrum. But as Ms Gideon points out, it will be hard to distinguish the impact of Brexit to that of the global pandemic. Yet the report states: "The two forces of COVID-19 and Brexit are impacting more sectors of the economy than each would in isolation." The Tory MP suggests the Government need to focus on "reformatting and reshaping the economy", which the Chancellor has already started to do through his unprecedented economic plan and job retainment scheme.
UK coronavirus map live


thedailyexpress--2020-08-01--Brexit LIVE: 'Don't give EU an INCH' David Frost urged as UK chief unveils key list

According to the new timetable , negotiating rounds will take place in August and in September , unless agreed otherwise between the parties .
Subject to any constraints required by the relevant national health recommendations , negotiating groups will meet physically , alternately in Brussels and London , in full , in the specialised sessions and in more restricted formats .
The Chief Negotiators from both sides and their teams will meet as necessary in a more restricted format to ensure progress in the negotiations .
Specialised sessions may also work under their authority on issues of particular difficulty in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is achieved across all workstreams .
After posting the timetable on social media , Mr Frost has been urged not to give an inch to the EU .
One person said : `` Brilliant work David .
A deal is the better option but we will get through on WTO if we have to .
We 're British it 's what we do . ''
Another said : `` Our Fishing waters our laws our independence are not up for sale to # EU !
!
!
Only WTO is our true # @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Business leaders fear talks will end in no deal Brexit Fears of a no deal Brexit outcome have been raised again as business leaders in Ireland are concerned on the impact on the Irish economy .
The UK formally left the European Union and negotiations for a furture relationship and trade deal with the bloc are still ongoing .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson hopes to have everything tied up by the end of the transition period in December .
But concerns of a no deal Brexit outcome have been raised according to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Ireland .
Michelle O'Neill said people in Northern Ireland have been left in the dark over what the outcome will be .
Speaking at the North South Ministerial Council meeting at Dublin Castle on Friday , she said : “ Time is running out .
`` We are at the 11th hour and have about four months left before we get to the end of the year .
“ We have a situation where citizens in the north are still not sure what the outcome will be so we need certainty and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to have the protocol implemented in full as that gives us our protection and recognises our special and unique circumstances on this island in terms of protecting the trade and having no hard border on the island.
” The UK 's chief Brexit negotiator has revealed the latest timetable to talks .
The end of the transition is looming closer and neither side seems to be budging and talks are stalemate .
But Mr Frost has provided the timetable ahead of the deal deadline in October .
The bank said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU clients will not be allowed .
“ In the UK , the front office roles , mainly sales positions , and their associated set-up positions are impacted by these measures . ''
The next round of talks will resume on August 17 , running through to August 21 .
This will then be followed by meetings between the negotiators between August 24-31 .
Round eight will take place on September 7-11 , followed by meetings of the teams between September 14-21 .
Round nine will then take place on September 28 to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Italy and France no longer support remaining in the EU , according to a bombshell poll that could see more countries follow the UK out of the bloc .
A European poll has sent shockwaves to Brussels after it found a majority of people in Italy and France did not support remaining inside the European Union According to the poll , conducted by Euronews , the coronavirus crisis has raised `` serious questions '' about membership of the bloc .
Around 43 percent of Italians said they would vote to keep EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would do the same .
British fishermen have savaged the huge Dutch trawlers that have depleted their fishing stock in the southeast of England .
Fisherman Wink Walpole told Al Jazeera that the daily catch for the typical fishermen in the area had plummeted by more than 80 percent due to the influx of EU vessels .
Al Jazeera 's Laurence Lee said that UK fishermen in the south-east of England have a `` big problem '' when it comes to their job .
`` The far larger Dutch trawlers not only steal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the mass electrocution of fish to take the lion share . ''
Brexit sent shockwaves across the continent , sparking fears the bloc 's future may now be at risk .
Lithuania ’ s permanent representative to the EU , Jovita Neliupšienė has opened up about how a great deal of fear spread across the bloc following the vote .
She said in an interview with Politico : “ For a couple of months everyone here in Brussels — you probably remember yourself — had the feeling that the EU ship may as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not for granted . ''
The Confederation of British Industry has warned UK businesses are now less prepared than they were in January .
Due to the coronaviurs pandemic , one in five businesses have admitted their concern over no deal planning .
Director general , Carolyn Fairburn said : `` What ’ s clear from this wide-ranging survey is that the majority of firms have neither the time nor resources to prepare for a non-negotiated EU exit .
“ While many larger firms have long had plans in place for a no-deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cope with a double dose of disruption .
Businesses on both sides are desperate for a deal that protects their economies at this most precarious of times.
” During their question and answer session with Politicio , Lib Dem leadership candidates , Layla Moran and Sir Ed Davey once again stated their intent to take the UK back into the EU .
Although the Brexit referendum occurred four years ago , Sir Ed once again insisted he would be at the frontline of any fight to rejoin the bloc .
Sir Ed said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our best place is in the EU , but our job now is to convince the country of that .
`` If the opportunity ever arises for us to rejoin , and we can take the public with us , I ’ ll be at the frontline of that fight.
” Ms Moran added : `` I would love to rejoin the EU , and I believe we will in years to come , but we must make the positive case to the public and win the hearts and minds of voters first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my priority is to work cross-party to prevent a devastating no-deal Brexit at the end of the year .
”

Brexit: Fisherman hits out at Dutch trawlers 'stealing'
As the UK fornally left the European Union back in January, negotiations have been ongoing with a deadline of October. But neither side has yet been able to come to an agreement but Mr Frost has revealed the next steps in crucial talks as the transition period deadline looms closer and closer.
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According to the new timetable, negotiating rounds will take place in August and in September, unless agreed otherwise between the parties. Subject to any constraints required by the relevant national health recommendations, negotiating groups will meet physically, alternately in Brussels and London, in full, in the specialised sessions and in more restricted formats. The Chief Negotiators from both sides and their teams will meet as necessary in a more restricted format to ensure progress in the negotiations. Specialised sessions may also work under their authority on issues of particular difficulty in the negotiations to ensure that parallel progress is achieved across all workstreams. After posting the timetable on social media, Mr Frost has been urged not to give an inch to the EU. One person said: "Brilliant work David. A deal is the better option but we will get through on WTO if we have to. We're British it's what we do." Another said: "Our Fishing waters our laws our independence are not up for sale to #EU !!! Only WTO is our true #Brexit" FOLLOW BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES:
Brexit Live: Remainer plot revealed
4.05am update: Philip May to receive a knighthood Theresa May's husband Philip May will receive a knighthood for his “political service” as part of the dissolution honours this year. 3.04am update: Labour MPs who opposed Corbyn to receive awards Frank Field, Ian Austin and John Woodcock, all former Labour MPs and critics of Jeremy Corbyn will receive awards, as will ex-DUP MP Nigel Dodds. 1.02am update: 36 new peers to join the House of Lords including whole host of proud Brexiteers The Government published its list of proposed peerages and political honours on Friday, confirming that Labour Brexiteers are set to be elevated. Former MPs who rebelled against Labour to back Brexit, including Kate Hoey, Ian Austin, Frank Field and Gisela Stuart, are all set to receive peerages.
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8pm update: Ireland panic: Business leaders fear talks will end in no deal Brexit Fears of a no deal Brexit outcome have been raised again as business leaders in Ireland are concerned on the impact on the Irish economy. The UK formally left the European Union and negotiations for a furture relationship and trade deal with the bloc are still ongoing. Prime Minister Boris Johnson hopes to have everything tied up by the end of the transition period in December. But concerns of a no deal Brexit outcome have been raised according to a study by the Institute of Directors in Ireland. 5.15pm update: Northern Ireland's deputy leader calls for Brexit clarity Michelle O'Neill said people in Northern Ireland have been left in the dark over what the outcome will be. Speaking at the North South Ministerial Council meeting at Dublin Castle on Friday, she said: “Time is running out. "We are at the 11th hour and have about four months left before we get to the end of the year. “We have a situation where citizens in the north are still not sure what the outcome will be so we need certainty and clarity. “For us, we have to have the protocol implemented in full as that gives us our protection and recognises our special and unique circumstances on this island in terms of protecting the trade and having no hard border on the island.” 4.05pm update: David Frost reveals latest timetable for Brexit talks The UK's chief Brexit negotiator has revealed the latest timetable to talks. The end of the transition is looming closer and neither side seems to be budging and talks are stalemate. But Mr Frost has provided the timetable ahead of the deal deadline in October. 4pm update: Steven Brown takes over from Bill McLoughlin 2.38pm update: French bank BNP Paribas to move jobs to Europe The bank said: "Selling financial services from the UK to EU clients will not be allowed. “In the UK, the front office roles, mainly sales positions, and their associated set-up positions are impacted by these measures."
1.24pm update: Brexit talk dates released The next round of talks will resume on August 17, running through to August 21. This will then be followed by meetings between the negotiators between August 24-31. Round eight will take place on September 7-11, followed by meetings of the teams between September 14-21. Round nine will then take place on September 28 to October 2. 12.41pm update: Brussels crisis The majority of people in Italy and France no longer support remaining in the EU, according to a bombshell poll that could see more countries follow the UK out of the bloc. A European poll has sent shockwaves to Brussels after it found a majority of people in Italy and France did not support remaining inside the European Union According to the poll, conducted by Euronews, the coronavirus crisis has raised "serious questions" about membership of the bloc. Around 43 percent of Italians said they would vote to keep EU membership, while 47 percent of French would do the same.
11.21am update: British fishermen raged at Dutch trawlers British fishermen have savaged the huge Dutch trawlers that have depleted their fishing stock in the southeast of England. Fisherman Wink Walpole told Al Jazeera that the daily catch for the typical fishermen in the area had plummeted by more than 80 percent due to the influx of EU vessels. Al Jazeera's Laurence Lee said that UK fishermen in the south-east of England have a "big problem" when it comes to their job. "The far larger Dutch trawlers not only steal into British waters but use techniques like the mass electrocution of fish to take the lion share." 10.06am update: EU admits 'trauma' over Brexit referendum result Brexit sent shockwaves across the continent, sparking fears the bloc's future may now be at risk. Lithuania’s permanent representative to the EU, Jovita Neliupšienė has opened up about how a great deal of fear spread across the bloc following the vote. She said in an interview with Politico: “For a couple of months everyone here in Brussels — you probably remember yourself — had the feeling that the EU ship may as well sink, that the EU is not for granted."
Brexit timeline
9.33am update: CBI warns over no deal Brexit The Confederation of British Industry has warned UK businesses are now less prepared than they were in January. Due to the coronaviurs pandemic, one in five businesses have admitted their concern over no deal planning. Director general, Carolyn Fairburn said: "What’s clear from this wide-ranging survey is that the majority of firms have neither the time nor resources to prepare for a non-negotiated EU exit. “While many larger firms have long had plans in place for a no-deal outcome, smaller firms will struggle to cope with a double dose of disruption. Businesses on both sides are desperate for a deal that protects their economies at this most precarious of times.”
UK-EU negotiations
8.42am update: China relations may hinder Brexit Due to the worsening tensions with China, the ambassador to the UK, Liu Xiaoming has claimed future trade ties post-Brexit may now well be impacted. Amid the offer of British citizenship and the exlucion of Huawei from the 5G network, he warned decoupling from China may well hurt the UK post-Brexit. He said: “When Brexit is completed and Covid-19 is over, there will be unlimited prospects for UK-China co-operation in areas of trade, financial services, science and technology, education and healthcare. "It is hard to imagine a global Britain that bypasses or excludes China. "Decoupling from China means decoupling from opportunities, decoupling from growth and decoupling from the future.” 8.07am update: Japan trade deal could be done by next month Japan and UK officials concluded the first round of talks this week in the hope of an agreement being secured by September. However, the Japanese embassy has stated an agreement could be concluded as early as next month. Given the time needed for it to be ratified in the Japanese parliament, an official stated August is "still possible". An official told Morning Trade UK: "Considering the time needed for the legal details and the Diet ratification, early August is also possible."
Brexit live: Japan trade deal update


thedailyexpress--2020-08-01--Nicola Sturgeon's 'eye watering' plan to give Scots up to £6,000 a year for FREE

The report suggested a number of methods as to how UBI could work in Scotland which included a basic income of £2,400 per person per annum that sits alongside Universal Credit which people would still be able to claim .
As well as this , it was also suggested that UBI should replace the current system of Universal Credit completely but retain other benefits including disability benefit , housing benefit , childcare support and incapacity benefit giving adults £4,800 a year .
A third model suggested an initial basic income funded through the existing tax and benefits system which would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the UK .
A final model also suggests creating long-term funding for a basic income scheme through the creation of a citizen ’ s wealth fund which could be funded through a combination of long-term borrowing and allocating some existing revenue-generating public sector assets .
This would allow adults to be paid up to £80 a week regardless of their income and £180 for adults aged 65+ and for children £50 a week .
This means that couples under 65 would receive an annual payment of £6,240 whilst families of four ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ receive £13,520 per year .
The final two models , the SNP said , could also apply to the rest of the UK .
The Commission report , added : “ Universal Basic Income ( UBI ) is currently being hotly debated in political and policy circles , both as a short term recovery measure as we come through the pandemic and also as a long term option .
READ MORE : SNP outrage at ‘ naked Tory ploy ’ with Brexit internal market plan “ Its appeal is not surprising .
On @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way of delivering a safety net income .
`` It is also instinctively attractive to many of us who believe in social justice , as a means of creating a more equal society.
” Alison Johnstone MSP , Scottish Greens social security spokesperson , told Express.co.uk : “ It would have a potentially hugely positive impact on health , wellbeing , poverty and inequality at a time when inequalities are being exposed by the current public health crisis .
“ As the world looks for ways to build back better from this global @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take a world-leading role in developing new radical approaches that provide a real safety net for the most vulnerable people in society .
DO N'T MISS : SNP 's new hate crime law could lead to prosecution for owning Bible [ REVEAL ] Jackson Carlaw QUITS as Scottish Tory leader as SNP pressure mounts [ JUST IN ] Scotland plot to remain linked to Europe over new law plans [ INSIGHT ] “ A Universal Basic Income is an idea which has entered the political mainstream , and I look forward to cross-party @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s an idea whose time has come.
” SNP MP Neil Gray who sits on the Commission , added to this website : “ We have put particular focus on Universal Basic Income as that is one of the most radical and challenging options being debated .
“ When considering transformational change , it ’ s important that it is grounded in a wide-ranging discussion and consensus and that ’ s why we want to undertake early consultation on this issue.
” Nicola Sturgeon also produced a paper which suggested that UBI @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the Scottish and UK Governments alongside local authorities .
Councils in Edinburgh , Glasgow , Fife and North Ayrshire worked on the research for two years with NHS Health Scotland , now part of Public Health Scotland , and the Improvement Service , which supports local authorities .
The Scottish government provided £250,000 for the project and have said that a three-year pilot will provide a better understanding of how an income could impact on poverty , unemployment , health and financial wellbeing .
However , the Commission warned that they “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ potential consequences of introducing UBI in an independent Scotland.
” One of those challenges is the fact that Holyrood does not have the powers to introduce a universal basic income on its own because the majority of welfare and tax responsibilities are still reserved to Westminster .
The Scottish Conservatives in one of the pilot proposals areas in Fife said that the plans would be “ unworkable ” and have questioned the £186m cost .
They stressed that is was going to cost “ £186m in a post-COVID environment ” stressing that “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of paying for it , presumably through taxation , the level of finance needed… if you scale it up to Scotland , the numbers are eye-watering.
” The group added : “ If we as politicians can ’ t see a way of affording the costs then we are disingenuous at the very best to be taking a pilot forward.
” Benny Higgins , Nicola Sturgeon 's chief economist who helped to produce a recent report on how the Scottish economy should recover from COVID-19 , said the scheme would be an “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ My personal conclusion at the moment is that we 've really got to use all of our resources to get people back to work , rather than support them out of work .
`` I think , therefore , this is n't the time to prioritise a universal basic income .
I 'd rather we use all of our resources to get Scotland back to work . ''
But Chancellor Rishi Sunak also told MPs that the UK government was `` not in favour of a universal basic income '' , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most vulnerable '' by investing in the existing welfare system .
The Commission Report concluded : “ An examination of mechanisms , in principle and practice , to deliver a secure income for all is a crucial part of the Commission ’ s work in developing proposals for an independent Scotland .
“ Ensuring that no one has to live in poverty and has the dignity of a secure income is one of the key pillars of a fair society with wellbeing at its heart .
“ It ’ s one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ considering .
”

Sturgeon hits out at Johnson over Scotland recovery plan
UBI which has been backed by Nicola Sturgeon would see every citizen provided with guaranteed payments no matter what their circumstances are. A research paper by the SNP led Social Justice & Fairness Commission titled “A Secure Income for All” explored the principle of providing a secure minimum income.
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The report suggested a number of methods as to how UBI could work in Scotland which included a basic income of £2,400 per person per annum that sits alongside Universal Credit which people would still be able to claim. As well as this, it was also suggested that UBI should replace the current system of Universal Credit completely but retain other benefits including disability benefit, housing benefit, childcare support and incapacity benefit giving adults £4,800 a year. A third model suggested an initial basic income funded through the existing tax and benefits system which would require an additional tax rise of £28bn for the UK. A final model also suggests creating long-term funding for a basic income scheme through the creation of a citizen’s wealth fund which could be funded through a combination of long-term borrowing and allocating some existing revenue-generating public sector assets.
A new report outlines how UBI could work in Scotland
Nicola Sturgeon has backed calls for UBI
This would allow adults to be paid up to £80 a week regardless of their income and £180 for adults aged 65+ and for children £50 a week. This means that couples under 65 would receive an annual payment of £6,240 whilst families of four (2 adults, 2 children) would receive £13,520 per year. The final two models, the SNP said, could also apply to the rest of the UK. The Commission report, added: “Universal Basic Income (UBI) is currently being hotly debated in political and policy circles, both as a short term recovery measure as we come through the pandemic and also as a long term option. READ MORE: SNP outrage at ‘naked Tory ploy’ with Brexit internal market plan
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The report was released ahead of the SNP National Commission next week
“Its appeal is not surprising. On the surface, it is a simple way of delivering a safety net income. "It is also instinctively attractive to many of us who believe in social justice, as a means of creating a more equal society.” Alison Johnstone MSP, Scottish Greens social security spokesperson, told Express.co.uk: “It would have a potentially hugely positive impact on health, wellbeing, poverty and inequality at a time when inequalities are being exposed by the current public health crisis. “As the world looks for ways to build back better from this global crisis, Scotland is well placed to take a world-leading role in developing new radical approaches that provide a real safety net for the most vulnerable people in society. DON'T MISS:
SNP's new hate crime law could lead to prosecution for owning Bible [REVEAL]
Jackson Carlaw QUITS as Scottish Tory leader as SNP pressure mounts [JUST IN]
Scotland plot to remain linked to Europe over new law plans [INSIGHT]
The Scottish Greens have also backed the move
“A Universal Basic Income is an idea which has entered the political mainstream, and I look forward to cross-party support for this proposed pilot. It’s an idea whose time has come.” SNP MP Neil Gray who sits on the Commission, added to this website: “We have put particular focus on Universal Basic Income as that is one of the most radical and challenging options being debated. “When considering transformational change, it’s important that it is grounded in a wide-ranging discussion and consensus and that’s why we want to undertake early consultation on this issue.” Nicola Sturgeon also produced a paper which suggested that UBI could be co-delivered in a three-year pilot by the Scottish and UK Governments alongside local authorities.
Holyrood however doesn't have the power for UBI
Councils in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Fife and North Ayrshire worked on the research for two years with NHS Health Scotland, now part of Public Health Scotland, and the Improvement Service, which supports local authorities. The Scottish government provided £250,000 for the project and have said that a three-year pilot will provide a better understanding of how an income could impact on poverty, unemployment, health and financial wellbeing. However, the Commission warned that they “must interrogate the various “challenges and potential consequences of introducing UBI in an independent Scotland.” One of those challenges is the fact that Holyrood does not have the powers to introduce a universal basic income on its own because the majority of welfare and tax responsibilities are still reserved to Westminster.
Universal Credit: Will Quince discusses wait for first payment
The Scottish Conservatives in one of the pilot proposals areas in Fife said that the plans would be “unworkable” and have questioned the £186m cost. They stressed that is was going to cost “£186m in a post-COVID environment” stressing that “unless we can identify a realistic option of paying for it, presumably through taxation, the level of finance needed… if you scale it up to Scotland, the numbers are eye-watering.” The group added: “If we as politicians can’t see a way of affording the costs then we are disingenuous at the very best to be taking a pilot forward.” Benny Higgins, Nicola Sturgeon's chief economist who helped to produce a recent report on how the Scottish economy should recover from COVID-19, said the scheme would be an “expensive distraction”.
SNP MP Neil Gray heads the commission which explored UBI


thedailyexpress--2020-07-31--House of Lords reform: How much will 36 new peers cost the UK? Staggering sum revealed

We will use your email address only for sending you newsletters .
Please see our Privacy Notice for details of @ @ @ @ @ Sign up fornow and never miss the top politics stories again .
Today it was @ @ @ @ @ has put forward 36 people for peerages .
The announcements were made in the PM @ @ @ @ @ which marks the first anniversary of Mr Johnson becoming Prime Minister .
Here ’ s @ @ @ @ @ of peers in the House of Lords will cost the UK .
Who has been @ @ @ @ @ s honours list ?
Many of those included on Mr Johnson ’ s honours list @ @ @ @ @ capacity .
Many included in the list have also been staunch supporters of Brexit , @ @ @ @ @ s Kate Hoey and Gisela Stuart .
Former England cricket captain Sir Ian Botham was @ @ @ @ @ ’ s list , in respect to his enthusiastic campaigning for Brexit .
READ MORE @ @ @ @ @ Lords : Clarke and Hammond lead pro-EU peers

Philip Hammond to receive peerage in Johnson’s honours list
On Friday, July 31 it was announced Prime Minister Boris Johnson has put forward 36 people for peerages. The announcements were made in the PM’s honours list, which marks the first anniversary of Mr Johnson becoming Prime Minister. Here’s how much the new addition of peers in the House of Lords will cost the UK.
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Who has been included on the PM’s honours list? Many of those included on Mr Johnson’s honours list have served in a political capacity. Many included in the list have also been staunch supporters of Brexit, including former Labour MP’s Kate Hoey and Gisela Stuart. Former England cricket captain Sir Ian Botham was also included on the PM’s list, in respect to his enthusiastic campaigning for Brexit. READ MORE: Remainers head to the Lords: Clarke and Hammond lead pro-EU peers
House of Lords reform: How much will 36 new peers cost the UK? Staggering sum revealed
House of Lords reform: Boris Johnson has included his younger brother and former junior minister, Jo Johnson, on the list of peerages
READ MORE Covid areas of concern MAPPED: 26 towns on Boris Johnson watch list However, Mr Johnson has also included some Remain supporters in his list of nominations. Ken Clarke, former Father of the House of Commons, and ex-Chancellor Philip Hammond have both been given peerages, despite the fact Mr Johnson stripped them of the Tory whip last year after they rejected his proposed Brexit agenda. Mr Johnson has also awarded a peerage to ex-Scottish Conservatives leader Ruth Davidson. Ex-PM Theresa May’s husband, Philip May, is also destined for a knighthood.
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House of Lords reform: Boris Johnson has also awarded a peerage to ex-Scottish Conservatives leader Ruth Davidson
Conservative former MPs Sir Henry Bellingham, Nicholas Herbert, Mark Lancaster, Sir Patrick McLoughlin and Ed Vaizey also made the Prime Minister's list. As the former Westminster leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), Nigel Dodds was also nominated. Mr Johnson has also included his younger brother and former junior minister, Jo Johnson, on the list of peerages, which many have criticised as cronyism on the part of the Prime Minister. The SNP's Cabinet Office spokesman Pete Wishart said the Prime Minister is "handing out jobs for life in the unelected House of Lords to friends and those who have done him favours". DON'T MISS:
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Sir Ian Botham and Boris Johnson's brother to join House of Lords [REPORT]
House of Lords slammed as 'private members club' as Boris names peers [ANALYSIS]
READ MORE John Bercow SNUBBED: Humiliation for former Speaker as peerage slips How much will 36 new peers cost the UK? As an unelected body, many have been critical of the influence the House of Lords still has today on British politics, and many are also critical of the cost of the House to the taxpayer. Darren Hughes, chief executive of the Electoral Reform Society, said 36 new peers are likely to cost a staggering sum to the taxpayer. Mr Hughes said: "Based on the average claim of a peer, the 36 new peers are likely to cost £1.1 million a year in expenses from the taxpayer.
House of Lords reform: Ex-PM Theresa May’s husband, Philip May, is also destined for a knighthood
"By appointing a host of ex-MPs, party loyalists and his own brother, the PM is inviting total derision. “That he can get away with it shows what a private member's club this house is.” The addition of 36 new peers will also significantly increase the size of the House of Lords even further, Mr Hughes added. He said: "The Lords was already the largest second chamber in the world. There are now over 800 unelected peers, voting on our laws for life.


thedailyexpress--2020-07-31--Scotland crisis: Fight for Union on the brink -Tories admit independence the majority view

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One Scottish Tory MSP Adam Tomkins said support for Scottish independence is the country ’ s “ majority position ” .
Mr Tomkins , a former constitutional advisor to the Scotland Office and the former Secretary of State for Scotland David Mundell , spoke out against one of the Tories ' main policies after Mr Carlaw ’ s sudden resignation .
He admitted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Scottish history ” that independence might not be a “ minority pursuit ” as support for independence sits at 54 percent .
The Glasgow MSP described the SNP as “ formidable ” opponents .
Mr Tomkins , who is to quit Holyrood at the 2021 election , told the BBC 's Good Morning Scotland radio programme of Mr Carlaw ’ s decision to stand down : “ Jackson had just reached the view that perhaps he had taken the party as far as it could , and it was time for somebody @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confirmed this morning that he is running for the party 's top job , following Jackson Carlaw 's surprise decision to stand down the previous day .

Jackson Carlaw resigns as Scottish Conservatives leader
One Scottish Tory MSP Adam Tomkins said support for Scottish independence is the country’s “majority position”. Mr Tomkins, a former constitutional advisor to the Scotland Office and the former Secretary of State for Scotland David Mundell, spoke out against one of the Tories' main policies after Mr Carlaw’s sudden resignation.
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He admitted it could be the “first time in Scottish history” that independence might not be a “minority pursuit” as support for independence sits at 54 percent. The Glasgow MSP described the SNP as “formidable” opponents. Mr Tomkins, who is to quit Holyrood at the 2021 election, told the BBC's Good Morning Scotland radio programme of Mr Carlaw’s decision to stand down: “Jackson had just reached the view that perhaps he had taken the party as far as it could, and it was time for somebody else to come forward.” Douglas Ross confirmed this morning that he is running for the party's top job, following Jackson Carlaw's surprise decision to stand down the previous day.
Douglas Ross with Jackson Carlaw
Boris Johnson: 'Good to see' PM in Moray says Douglas Ross
Mr Carlaw resigned on Thursday saying he had made the "painful decision" after realising he was not the best person to lead the party in the run-up to next May's Holyrood election. Express.co.uk understands this was also amid concerns about recent polling shown to Prime Minister Boris Johnson showing the SNP would win a landslide at Holyrood. Ruth Davidson, who resigned as the Scottish Tory leader last August is also poised for a return to frontline politics as Mr Ross hopes she will front the party at First Minister's Questions challenging Nicola Sturgeon at Westminster. Adam Tomkins also backed Mr Ross saying he was “formidable” and backed him to succeed Mr Carlaw, adding: “I think he would be an outstanding candidate and an outstanding leader if he does announce his candidacy in the next few hours or days. I would be very keen to support him.” READ MORE: Scots face ‘extremely worrying’ waiting times for surgery post COVID
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Nicola Sturgeon's party has received widespread support
He also blasted fellow Tory Michelle Ballantyne’s comments about Mr Carlaw who said last night that she was “happy he’s gone” and suspected “it was Westminster who pushed him”. Ms Ballantyne stood against Mr Carlaw for the leadership in February but lost to the veteran Tory. He said: “That’s just laughable from Michelle. Michelle doesn’t know what she is talking about. “The only thing that we need to remember about Michelle is she was beaten 75/25 in a two horse race by Jackson Carlaw only a few months ago.” DON'T MISS:
Sturgeon forced into huge u-turn after SNP accused of exploiting COVID [JUST IN]
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Jackson Carlaw led the Scottish Tories from August 2019
Mr Ross said he will contest a seat at the next Holyrood election in May if he wins the party leadership, though he will also continue as the MP for Moray. He added: "I think Jackson made a very honest and very brave appraisal of his leadership. “He's someone who has served this party extremely well for four decades." Speaking of his own plans for the leadership, he added: "I believe as someone who has been a councillor, an MP and an MSP, I can take the fight to the SNP, which we need more of, and also present a positive vision of the party to the country in next May's election."
Adam Tomkins admitted that Scottish independence could happen
Asked about recent polls which indicated the SNP is on course to win a majority in next year's Holyrood vote, he said: "I'm absolutely in this to be first minister. No-one should enter any race for an election if they don't think they can win. "I know the challenge we face. “No-one can be complacent with the polls, they can go down as quickly as they go up. "So yes, we have a challenge but we have a fighting chance if we can get a leader in place quickly to take the strong, positive Scottish Conservative and Unionist message to people in every part of Scotland. "
Jackson Carlaw stepped down yesterday


thedailyexpress--2020-07-31--Sturgeon under pressure as Scots face ‘extremely worrying’ waiting times for surgery

A Scottish Government report said that policies were being developed to ensure fair access to the `` limited surgical resource '' as the health service recovers from the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak .
Discussing the recovery of cancer surgery , the report says health boards should set up clinical prioritisation groups ( CPGs ) .
The report added : `` Current estimates are that surgery services will operate in most health boards at around 60 percent of pre-Covidlevels for the next 24 months , and perhaps longer if there are further surges in COVID-19 incidence .
`` Scottish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ boards ( and hospitals ) implement local governance policies to ensure fair and reasonable access to a limited surgery resource in terms of both hospital beds and elective green-site theatre capacity . ''
It sets out a framework for classifying patients into five groups , ranging from `` priority level one '' cases , where surgery is needed within 72 hours , to `` priority level four '' , where surgery can be safely scheduled after 12 weeks .
But Cancer Research UK said there is `` huge concern '' patients may not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , head of external affairs for Devolved Nations at the charity , said : `` It 's of huge concern that patients may not be able to receive the best possible treatment for their cancer .
`` It 's clear from this report that COVID-19 has already had , and will continue to have , a significant impact .
`` For some people , surgery can be a cure .
Patients can receive other treatments , such as radiotherapy , in some cases .
`` But this wo n't always be possible so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anticipated that surgical services will operate on such a profoundly reduced basis . ''
READ MORE : Sturgeon forced into huge u-turn after SNP accused of exploiting COVID She added : `` It 's vital health boards and Scottish Government continue to work together to make the most effective use of existing staff , equipment and approaches to care to address this backlog and ensure as many patients as possible can receive timely surgery . ''
Janice Preston , Macmillan Cancer Support ’ s head of service in Scotland , added : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as quickly as possible , such as the private sector and using the Louisa Jordan .
`` Now is the time for radical thinking , otherwise the backlog is going to continue to grow and grow . ''
Professor Michael Griffin , president of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh warned that surgeons will be facing a significant challenge in the months ahead .
DO N'T MISS : Sturgeon says people in northern England should stay at home [ REVEAL ] SNP outrage at ‘ naked Tory ploy ’ with Brexit internal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's 'eye watering ' plan to give Scots up to £6,000 pa [ JUST IN ] He added : “ While these are absolutely necessary , it means surgeons will be facing a significant challenge in working through the backlog of patients '' .
He stressed that the Scottish Government “ must increase the capacity of suitable locations to carry out operations in.
” In response to the concerns , at the Scottish Government 's coronavirus briefing , First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said urgent treatments should still be going ahead and returning services @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Fiona McQueen , Scotland ’ s chief nursing officer said the health service is looking into making use of facilities such as the NHS Louisa Jordani in Glasgow emergency hospital or remote consultations which has yet to treat COVID patients .

NHS is ‘heading back to mid 90’s’ on waiting times says expert
A Scottish Government report said that policies were being developed to ensure fair access to the "limited surgical resource" as the health service recovers from the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak. Discussing the recovery of cancer surgery, the report says health boards should set up clinical prioritisation groups (CPGs).
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The report added: "Current estimates are that surgery services will operate in most health boards at around 60 percent of pre-Covidlevels for the next 24 months, and perhaps longer if there are further surges in COVID-19 incidence. "Scottish Government, therefore, recommends that health boards (and hospitals) implement local governance policies to ensure fair and reasonable access to a limited surgery resource in terms of both hospital beds and elective green-site theatre capacity." It sets out a framework for classifying patients into five groups, ranging from "priority level one" cases, where surgery is needed within 72 hours, to "priority level four", where surgery can be safely scheduled after 12 weeks. But Cancer Research UK said there is "huge concern" patients may not receive the best treatment.
The Scottish Government has come under fire over the report
Surgery services will operate at 60 percent capacity
Marion O'Neill, head of external affairs for Devolved Nations at the charity, said: "It's of huge concern that patients may not be able to receive the best possible treatment for their cancer. "It's clear from this report that COVID-19 has already had, and will continue to have, a significant impact. "For some people, surgery can be a cure. Patients can receive other treatments, such as radiotherapy, in some cases. "But this won't always be possible so it's extremely worrying that it's anticipated that surgical services will operate on such a profoundly reduced basis." READ MORE: Sturgeon forced into huge u-turn after SNP accused of exploiting COVID
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It could be upto two years for patients to get NHS surgery
She added: "It's vital health boards and Scottish Government continue to work together to make the most effective use of existing staff, equipment and approaches to care to address this backlog and ensure as many patients as possible can receive timely surgery." Janice Preston, Macmillan Cancer Support’s head of service in Scotland, added: "We need to look at innovative solutions as quickly as possible, such as the private sector and using the Louisa Jordan. "Now is the time for radical thinking, otherwise the backlog is going to continue to grow and grow." Professor Michael Griffin, president of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh warned that surgeons will be facing a significant challenge in the months ahead. DON'T MISS:
Sturgeon says people in northern England should stay at home [REVEAL]
SNP outrage at ‘naked Tory ploy’ with Brexit internal market plan [INSIGHT]
Nicola Sturgeon's 'eye watering' plan to give Scots up to £6,000 pa [JUST IN]
Fiona McQueen, chief nursing officer defended the allegations
He added: “While these are absolutely necessary, it means surgeons will be facing a significant challenge in working through the backlog of patients". He stressed that the Scottish Government “must increase the capacity of suitable locations to carry out operations in.” In response to the concerns, at the Scottish Government's coronavirus briefing, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said urgent treatments should still be going ahead and returning services to normal is a "priority." Fiona McQueen, Scotland’s chief nursing officer said the health service is looking into making use of facilities such as the NHS Louisa Jordani in Glasgow emergency hospital or remote consultations which has yet to treat COVID patients.
NHS Louisa Jordan in Glasgow could be used for surgery patients


thedailyexpress--2020-07-31--Sturgeon forced into huge u-turn after SNP accused of exploiting coronavirus for profit

Annie Wells MSP , deputy leader of the Scottish Tories , branded it a `` tasteless venture '' and also wrote to SNP chief executive Peter Murrell , who is also the First Minister 's husband .
In her letter , the Glasgow MSP urged the party to donate any money made from the coverings to `` causes fighting coronavirus '' .
In her letter , the Glasgow MSP urged the party to donate any money made from the coverings to `` causes fighting coronavirus '' .
She claimed profits were being made by the SNP over a public health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which mandated the wearing of face coverings in shops and on public transport .
On the SNP official website , the party has been selling face masks for £8 and face coverings for £14 , branded with SNP logos and saltires including the Yes mark demonstrating support for Scottish independence .
After a statement at Holyrood yesterday when she announced the reopening of schools , the First Minister was challenged by Scottish Tory leader Jackson Carlaw over the practice during a heated exchange over the politicisation of the pandemic .
In a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the First Minister , Mr Carlaw said : `` I think the First Minister has to be very careful when she talks about playing politics when she as the leader and the chief executive of her party ( Mr Murrell ) profiteer from coronavirus by producing party political face masks to raise funds for the SNP . ''
In response , the First Minister said : `` I will continue to do everything to persuade people to wear face coverings and in terms of my party , every penny of profit made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' It is not known which charity will receive the donations from the SNP .
In her letter to Mr Murrell , Ms Wells said : `` I 'm sure you are aware that by selling these face masks you stand to profit , both financially and politically , from a public health measure imposed by your own party .
READ MORE : Sturgeon says people in northern England should stay at home '' I would , therefore , urge you to stop this immediately , and as a gesture of goodwill , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
The practice was first flagged by Cllr Malcolm Cunning , a Labour councillor on Glasgow City Council last Saturday .
Posting on Twitter , Cllr Cunning , said : “ The folks at the SNP would put a logo on their granny ’ s coffin if they thought it would gain them a single vote.
” But defending the face mask , SNP councillor Mhairi Hunter , Convener for Health and Social Care Integration on Glasgow City Council claimed Cllr Cunning was “ feigning horror ” over the products .
DO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ watering ' plan to give Scots up to £6,000 pa [ REVEAL ] SNP outrage at ‘ naked Tory ploy ’ with Brexit internal market plan [ INSIGHT ] SNP 's new hate crime law could lead to prosecution for owning Bible [ REVEAL ]

Face masks: Nicola Sturgeon says compliance has been ‘high’
Annie Wells MSP, deputy leader of the Scottish Tories, branded it a "tasteless venture" and also wrote to SNP chief executive Peter Murrell, who is also the First Minister's husband. In her letter, the Glasgow MSP urged the party to donate any money made from the coverings to "causes fighting coronavirus".
Trending
In her letter, the Glasgow MSP urged the party to donate any money made from the coverings to "causes fighting coronavirus". She claimed profits were being made by the SNP over a public health measure put in place by Ms Sturgeon, which mandated the wearing of face coverings in shops and on public transport. On the SNP official website, the party has been selling face masks for £8 and face coverings for £14, branded with SNP logos and saltires including the Yes mark demonstrating support for Scottish independence. After a statement at Holyrood yesterday when she announced the reopening of schools, the First Minister was challenged by Scottish Tory leader Jackson Carlaw over the practice during a heated exchange over the politicisation of the pandemic.
A row has erupted over the SNP selling face masks
Prices range between £8 and £14 on the SNP website
In a row over the efficacy of statistics used by the First Minister, Mr Carlaw said: "I think the First Minister has to be very careful when she talks about playing politics when she as the leader and the chief executive of her party (Mr Murrell) profiteer from coronavirus by producing party political face masks to raise funds for the SNP." In response, the First Minister said: "I will continue to do everything to persuade people to wear face coverings and in terms of my party, every penny of profit made will go to charity, actually." It is not known which charity will receive the donations from the SNP. In her letter to Mr Murrell, Ms Wells said: "I'm sure you are aware that by selling these face masks you stand to profit, both financially and politically, from a public health measure imposed by your own party. READ MORE: Sturgeon says people in northern England should stay at home
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The folks at @theSNP would put a logo on their granny's coffin if they thought it would gain them a single vote. Bad taste doesn't cover it. pic.twitter.com/vRLuyHgIUm — Cllr Malcolm Cunning (@Malcolm4Linn) July 25, 2020
"I would, therefore, urge you to stop this immediately, and as a gesture of goodwill, donate the proceeds to causes fighting coronavirus." The practice was first flagged by Cllr Malcolm Cunning, a Labour councillor on Glasgow City Council last Saturday. Posting on Twitter, Cllr Cunning, said: “The folks at the SNP would put a logo on their granny’s coffin if they thought it would gain them a single vote.” But defending the face mask, SNP councillor Mhairi Hunter, Convener for Health and Social Care Integration on Glasgow City Council claimed Cllr Cunning was “feigning horror” over the products. DON'T MISS:
Nicola Sturgeon's 'eye watering' plan to give Scots up to £6,000 pa [REVEAL]
SNP outrage at ‘naked Tory ploy’ with Brexit internal market plan [INSIGHT]
SNP's new hate crime law could lead to prosecution for owning Bible [REVEAL]
Annie Wells, deputy leader of the Scottish Tories wrote to the SNP


thedailyexpress--2020-08-01--House of Lords POLL: Should former Speaker John Bercow be handed seat in the Lords? VOTE

Boris Johnson has put forward his brother Jo Johnson , several Tory grandees and his chief strategic adviser for peerages , while numerous Brexit-backers are also set to head to the Lords after Downing Street revealed its new list on Friday .
But Jeremy Corbyn ’ s reported nomination John Bercow has been snubbed despite previous speakers going on to gain a seat in the House of Lords after leaving their role in office .
Express.co.uk is asking you should Mr Bercow be given a seat in the House of Lords after serving as Speaker for 10 years ?
Ex-England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supported the Leave campaign , newspaper owner Evgeny Lebedev and former leader of the Scottish Conservatives Ruth Davidson are among 36 new peerages announced by the Government on Friday .
Philip May , the husband of Theresa May , Boris Johnson 's predecessor in Downing Street , will also receive a knighthood .
The peerage list includes former MPs who rebelled against the Labour position to back Brexit , including Kate Hoey , Ian Austin , Frank Field and Gisela Stuart .
But Mr Johnson did pick Conservative former chancellors Ken Clarke and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stripped the Tory whip from them after they defied him over Brexit .
He also selected his own brother Jo , who dealt his older sibling a major blow in resigning from his Cabinet citing `` the national interest '' .
And Mr Johnson nominated his chief strategic adviser Sir Edward Lister , a long-term ally of the Prime Minister who supported him as London mayor .
But there is no sign of Mr Bercow , who was snubbed from the list , after his retirement .
Discussing his disappointment at not being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lords after serving as Speaker for 10 years , he previously said the issue over the `` long-standing convention '' of Speakers being granted a peerage was `` best decided by other people '' .
He told BBC Radio 4 's Any Questions programme earlier this year : `` It was my enormous privilege to serve for just over 10 years as the speaker of the house of commons .
`` I 'm not going to sit awake at night worrying about it , all I will say is that it was an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than any speaker in the post-war period .
`` I 'm sure I did n't please everybody , I know I did n't .
I did my best and I did n't want to be speaker simply so I could say to my kids or one day , god willing , my grandchildren I served as speaker .
Following ten years in Parliament , Mr Bercow stepped down as Speaker in 2019 and lamented Brexit as the greatest error from Britain since the Second World War .
Mr Bercow has argued that during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ acted impartially and refused to let his views govern how he behaved in his role .
But the Speaker was a constant thorn in the side of Brexiteers and his behaviour in his final months prompted criticism from Brexit supporters who claimed he was trying to thwart the process of taking the UK out of the EU with many of his rulings .
The controversial former Speaker had a front-row seat and was often pivotal in the Brexit crisis smothering the UK since the EU referendum in June 2016 .
He repeatedly came @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Brexit plans and was accused of “ unilaterally chaining the rules ” to allow Tory Remainers to take control of the Commons .

Brexit strategy was 'as clear as mud' says Bercow
Boris Johnson has put forward his brother Jo Johnson, several Tory grandees and his chief strategic adviser for peerages, while numerous Brexit-backers are also set to head to the Lords after Downing Street revealed its new list on Friday. But Jeremy Corbyn’s reported nomination John Bercow has been snubbed despite previous speakers going on to gain a seat in the House of Lords after leaving their role in office. THIS POLL IS NOW CLOSED. Click HERE for the results
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Express.co.uk is asking you should Mr Bercow be given a seat in the House of Lords after serving as Speaker for 10 years? Ex-England cricket player Sir Ian Botham, who supported the Leave campaign, newspaper owner Evgeny Lebedev and former leader of the Scottish Conservatives Ruth Davidson are among 36 new peerages announced by the Government on Friday. Philip May, the husband of Theresa May, Boris Johnson's predecessor in Downing Street, will also receive a knighthood. The peerage list includes former MPs who rebelled against the Labour position to back Brexit, including Kate Hoey, Ian Austin, Frank Field and Gisela Stuart.
John Bercow is notably absent from the House of Lords list
But Mr Johnson did pick Conservative former chancellors Ken Clarke and Philip Hammond for peerages, after he stripped the Tory whip from them after they defied him over Brexit. He also selected his own brother Jo, who dealt his older sibling a major blow in resigning from his Cabinet citing "the national interest". And Mr Johnson nominated his chief strategic adviser Sir Edward Lister, a long-term ally of the Prime Minister who supported him as London mayor.
John Bercow was not on the list for the House of Lords peers
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But there is no sign of Mr Bercow, who was snubbed from the list, after his retirement. Discussing his disappointment at not being given a seat in the House of Lords after serving as Speaker for 10 years, he previously said the issue over the "long-standing convention" of Speakers being granted a peerage was "best decided by other people". He told BBC Radio 4's Any Questions programme earlier this year: "It was my enormous privilege to serve for just over 10 years as the speaker of the house of commons. "I'm not going to sit awake at night worrying about it, all I will say is that it was an honour to serve for longer as speaker than any speaker in the post-war period.
John Bercow was a constant thorn in the side of Brexiteers
John Bercow was subbed from Boris Johnson's House of Lords list
"I'm sure I didn't please everybody, I know I didn't. I did my best and I didn't want to be speaker simply so I could say to my kids or one day, god willing, my grandchildren I served as speaker. "I tried to make a difference." Following ten years in Parliament, Mr Bercow stepped down as Speaker in 2019 and lamented Brexit as the greatest error from Britain since the Second World War. Mr Bercow has argued that during his time as Speaker, he always acted impartially and refused to let his views govern how he behaved in his role.
But the Speaker was a constant thorn in the side of Brexiteers and his behaviour in his final months prompted criticism from Brexit supporters who claimed he was trying to thwart the process of taking the UK out of the EU with many of his rulings. The controversial former Speaker had a front-row seat and was often pivotal in the Brexit crisis smothering the UK since the EU referendum in June 2016. He repeatedly came under fire for undermining the government’s Brexit plans and was accused of “unilaterally chaining the rules” to allow Tory Remainers to take control of the Commons.


thedailyexpress--2020-08-01--Brexit activist attacked by Black Lives Matter protesters in London

The YouTuber and former Vote Leave staffer made told his followers on Twitter following the incident .
He went on to explain the `` incident '' in his daily YouTube vlog .
Speaking to the Express.co.uk a day before the attack happened , Mr Tousi said : “ The Black Lives Matter movement don ’ t know what they are talking about .
“ For their leaders , it ’ s not about skin colour or race .
“ It ’ s pure Marxism and that ’ s just their agenda.
” He added : “ These are the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were involved in campaigns to do with class war.
” Mahyar claims the BLM movement is just part of the “ same campaigns that have been going on for decades and decades , but they ’ ve literally just changed their names ” .
The pro-Brexit vlogger 's attack on Wednesday was not the first time he claims to have been targeted by BLM activists .
While speaking with the Express.co.uk , Mahyar recounted how activists had called him out for not being “ properly black ” .
He said : “ They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not real brown ’ or ‘ your Uncle Tom ’ or even ‘ you ’ re a coconut ’ .
” Mahyar explained he was out with friends in central London and when waiting in a queue to get into a bar he was approached by a BLM activist .
Mahyar admitted while in the queue he was joking around with friends about his skin colour .
Meanwhile , the group in front , who were BLM advocates , were apparently unhappy with the remarks , which led to one individual coming over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : “ A couple of guys came over and there was a bit of pushing around , nothing too serious .
“ There were just a couple of small punches to my chest.
” Mahyar Tousi is not the first political YouTuber to have been targeted by those from the opposite side of the political debate .
Last year , Guardian Columnist and YouTuber , Owen Jones was assaulted in a pub in North London .

Mahyar Tousi discusses Black Lives Matter movement
The YouTuber and former Vote Leave staffer made told his followers on Twitter following the incident. He went on to explain the "incident" in his daily YouTube vlog. Speaking to the Express.co.uk a day before the attack happened, Mr Tousi said: “The Black Lives Matter movement don’t know what they are talking about.
Trending
“For their leaders, it’s not about skin colour or race. “It’s pure Marxism and that’s just their agenda.” He added: “These are the same people who just half an hour ago were involved in campaigns to do with class war.” Mahyar claims the BLM movement is just part of the “same campaigns that have been going on for decades and decades, but they’ve literally just changed their names”.
Black Lives Matter portestors Brighton
The pro-Brexit vlogger's attack on Wednesday was not the first time he claims to have been targeted by BLM activists. While speaking with the Express.co.uk, Mahyar recounted how activists had called him out for not being “properly black”. He said: “They say to me ‘oh you are not real brown’ or ‘your Uncle Tom’ or even ‘you’re a coconut’.” READ MORE: Lewis Hamilton convinces F1 chiefs to make anti-racism decision
Mahyar Tousi Tweet about attack
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BLM attack on free speech according to Andre Walker
Mahyar explained he was out with friends in central London and when waiting in a queue to get into a bar he was approached by a BLM activist. Mahyar admitted while in the queue he was joking around with friends about his skin colour. Meanwhile, the group in front, who were BLM advocates, were apparently unhappy with the remarks, which led to one individual coming over to confront the YouTuber.
Winston Churchill, Statue was vandilised by BLM
Mr Tousi said: “A couple of guys came over and there was a bit of pushing around, nothing too serious. “There were just a couple of small punches to my chest.” Mahyar Tousi is not the first political YouTuber to have been targeted by those from the opposite side of the political debate. Last year, Guardian Columnist and YouTuber, Owen Jones was assaulted in a pub in North London.
George Floyd funeral, protests began after his death


thedailyexpress--2020-08-01--John Bercow and Tom Watson absent from new peers list

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He was apparently @ @ @ @ @ appointment commission after being tainted by claims of bullying , which he has always denied @ @ @ @ @ the tradition of putting retired Commons speakers ' names forward for a peerage , leaving @ @ @ @ @ .
The former Labour leader also put forward his deputy leader Tom Watson and old @ @ @ @ @ , but they also missed out .
One time Conservative Party treasurer Peter Cruddas has @ @ @ @ @ list .
Two other major Tory donors are also in doubt.A Labour source said yesterday @ @ @ @ @ suggested by the previous Labour leader .
`` We are not involved in the decision @ @ @ @ @ peerages follow the dissolution of parliament last November and have been under consideration for several @ @

He was apparently rejected by the independent Lords appointment commission after being tainted by claims of bullying, which he has always denied. The Government had bucked the tradition of putting retired Commons speakers' names forward for a peerage, leaving Jeremy Corbyn to nominate him. The former Labour leader also put forward his deputy leader Tom Watson and old chief of staff Karie Murphy, but they also missed out.
One time Conservative Party treasurer Peter Cruddas has also been left off the list. Two other major Tory donors are also in doubt.A Labour source said yesterday: "These were appointments suggested by the previous Labour leader.
"We are not involved in the decision making process."
The peerages follow the dissolution of parliament last November and have been under consideration for several months.


thedailyexpress--2020-08-01--Sturgeon told future of SNP at crossroads– two candidates barred from standing in election

At a meeting of the SNP national executive , a decision was made that serving SNP MP ’ s would have to step down ahead of next year 's Scottish Parliament election to be able to stand on the SNP ticket for a Holyrood seat .
Express.co.uk also understands that any MP who wants to stand for Holyrood will have to resign their seat before the Scottish election .
A party source told Express.co.uk that the “ new strategy ” was “ all about focussing ” on constituents .
The decision meant that Joanna Cherry , a serving MP , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Central seat which is currently held by former Scots Tory leader Ruth Davidson .
Ms Cherry had previously said she wanted to stand in the Edinburgh Central seat in next May 's Scottish Parliament election - with former SNP depute leader Angus Robertson also seeking the nomination .
But she has now said a `` particularly unreasonable '' demand from the party means it is `` impossible '' for her to do so .
Marco Biagi , SNP MSP for Edinburgh Central from 2011 to 2016 said that `` Future of SNP is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Joanna Cherry '' .
He stressed that the SNP national executive ’ s decision to “ place barriers in front of serving MPs seeking to become MSPs ” was always going to be “ seen as targeted at one individual.
” Writing in The Times of Scotland , he said : “ The party had heretofore taken no position on dual mandates and several individuals have held joint office on a transitional basis .
The barrier set down was far from an insurmountable one , but it has been sufficient to persuade Ms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the contest .
“ Based on the chatter among SNP members , there are many at the grassroots who are uncomfortable with this process .
READ MORE : Scottish prosecutor could consider if Sturgeon broke law over care “ My own view is that Ms Cherry was a narrow favourite to be chosen as the candidate .
“ Even among those who preferred another , there is dissatisfaction with how she has come to be eliminated.
” Ms Cherry , who currently represents the overlapping constituency of Edinburgh South West in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Express.co.uk that she believed she had a `` very good chance '' of being selected as the candidate .
She said : `` I want to thank everyone who has emailed , written or stopped me in the street to offer their support .
DO N'T MISS : Nicola Sturgeon 's 'eye watering ' plan to give Scots up to £6,000 pa [ REVEAL ] Fight for Union on the brink - Tories admit independence majority view [ INSIGHT ] Scots face ‘ extremely worrying ’ waiting times for surgery post COVID [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to reassure my constituents that I shall continue to represent their interests as their MP and to the grassroots members of our party .
“ I promise that I will continue to advocate for independence , democratic reform of our party and open debate.
” Meanwhile , Glasgow SNP MSP James Dornan has said he will challenge a decision to `` impose an all-women shortlist '' on his constituency which prevents him seeking re-election .
The MSP for Glasgow Cathcart said in February that he would not be seeking re-election in the 2021 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in July .
Express.co.uk understands that a decision during the meeting of the party 's ruling national executive committee was also taken to apply an all-women shortlists rule to the Cathcart seat because of Mr Dornan 's relatively late shift in position .
Writing on Twitter , Mr Dornan said he would be `` challenging what I consider to be a decision based on a false premise '' and added : `` OK folks , last night the NEC voted to impose an all-women shortlist on the constituents of Glasgow Cathcart , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of my ability for the last 10 years .
`` Obviously I am challenging what I consider to be a decision based on a false premise .
I consider myself to be the best candidate for this constituency , that I live in and grew up on .
`` If anyone wishes to challenge me then they should have the courage to take me on , not try to manipulate others into doing their job for them .
I intend to stand and will fight to do so . ''
An SNP spokesman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The NEC backed an approach that will guarantee constituents a full-time commitment from day one , and minimise the disruption to voters . ''

Mark Sedwill's replacement is 'about revenge' says Joanna Cherry
At a meeting of the SNP national executive, a decision was made that serving SNP MP’s would have to step down ahead of next year's Scottish Parliament election to be able to stand on the SNP ticket for a Holyrood seat. Express.co.uk also understands that any MP who wants to stand for Holyrood will have to resign their seat before the Scottish election.
Trending
A party source told Express.co.uk that the “new strategy” was “all about focussing” on constituents. The decision meant that Joanna Cherry, a serving MP, was unable to stand for the Edinburgh Central seat which is currently held by former Scots Tory leader Ruth Davidson. Ms Cherry had previously said she wanted to stand in the Edinburgh Central seat in next May's Scottish Parliament election - with former SNP depute leader Angus Robertson also seeking the nomination. But she has now said a "particularly unreasonable" demand from the party means it is "impossible" for her to do so.
Two SNP politicians have spoken out today
It comes ahead of Holyrood elections next year
Marco Biagi, SNP MSP for Edinburgh Central from 2011 to 2016 said that "Future of SNP is at crossroads after the bid to block Joanna Cherry". He stressed that the SNP national executive’s decision to “place barriers in front of serving MPs seeking to become MSPs” was always going to be “seen as targeted at one individual.” Writing in The Times of Scotland, he said: “The party had heretofore taken no position on dual mandates and several individuals have held joint office on a transitional basis. The barrier set down was far from an insurmountable one, but it has been sufficient to persuade Ms Cherry to step back and withdraw entirely from the contest. “Based on the chatter among SNP members, there are many at the grassroots who are uncomfortable with this process. READ MORE: Scottish prosecutor could consider if Sturgeon broke law over care
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The decisions were taken at a party meeting this week
“My own view is that Ms Cherry was a narrow favourite to be chosen as the candidate. “Even among those who preferred another, there is dissatisfaction with how she has come to be eliminated.” Ms Cherry, who currently represents the overlapping constituency of Edinburgh South West in the Commons, said in a statement to Express.co.uk that she believed she had a "very good chance" of being selected as the candidate. She said: "I want to thank everyone who has emailed, written or stopped me in the street to offer their support. DON'T MISS:
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Fight for Union on the brink - Tories admit independence majority view [INSIGHT]
Scots face ‘extremely worrying’ waiting times for surgery post COVID [JUST IN]
Joanna Cherry was barred from standing unless she resigns as an MP
"I would like to reassure my constituents that I shall continue to represent their interests as their MP and to the grassroots members of our party. “I promise that I will continue to advocate for independence, democratic reform of our party and open debate.” Meanwhile, Glasgow SNP MSP James Dornan has said he will challenge a decision to "impose an all-women shortlist" on his constituency which prevents him seeking re-election. The MSP for Glasgow Cathcart said in February that he would not be seeking re-election in the 2021 Holyrood contest but he changed his decision in July.
James Dornan ranted on Twitter yesterday


thedailyexpress--2020-08-01--Sir Ian Botham and Boris Johnson's brother to join House of Lords

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The Prime Minister nominated brother Jo , 48 , who quit as a Conservative MP and minister last year saying he was `` torn between family and national interest '' .
Former England captain Botham , 64 , is one of a number of Brexiteers nominated for peerages along with several Tory grandees .
Theresa May 's husband Philip , 62 , is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Government 's dissolution honours list which one critic last night described as `` the worst kind of cronyism '' .
House of Lords reform : How much will 36 new peers cost the UK ?
Russian-born billionaire newspaper proprietor Evgeny Lebedev , the son of a former KGB operative , is also among the 36 life peerage nominations .
The list also includes former MPs who rebelled against the Labour position to back Brexit , including Kate Hoey , Ian Austin and Gisela Stuart .
Brexit Party MEP Claire Fox has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did pick Conservative former chancellors Ken Clarke and Philip Hammond for peerages , after he stripped them from the Tory whip when they defied him over leaving the EU .
Mr Hammond - who stood down as an MP before last December 's election - wrote on Twitter : `` Honoured to join the House of Lords and delighted to be rejoining the Conservative parliamentary party .
`` I look forward to making a contribution to the important public debates we will have in this country over the coming years as we seek @ @ @ @ @ @ @ age . ''

The Prime Minister nominated brother Jo, 48, who quit as a Conservative MP and minister last year saying he was "torn between family and national interest". Former England captain Botham, 64, is one of a number of Brexiteers nominated for peerages along with several Tory grandees. Theresa May's husband Philip, 62, is set for a knighthood after being named in the Government's dissolution honours list which one critic last night described as "the worst kind of cronyism".
House of Lords reform: How much will 36 new peers cost the UK?
Russian-born billionaire newspaper proprietor Evgeny Lebedev, the son of a former KGB operative, is also among the 36 life peerage nominations.
The list also includes former MPs who rebelled against the Labour position to back Brexit, including Kate Hoey, Ian Austin and Gisela Stuart.
Brexit Party MEP Claire Fox has also been nominated.
But Mr Johnson did pick Conservative former chancellors Ken Clarke and Philip Hammond for peerages, after he stripped them from the Tory whip when they defied him over leaving the EU.
Mr Hammond - who stood down as an MP before last December's election - wrote on Twitter: "Honoured to join the House of Lords and delighted to be rejoining the Conservative parliamentary party.
"I look forward to making a contribution to the important public debates we will have in this country over the coming years as we seek to address the great challenges of our age."


thedailyexpress--2020-08-01--Tory MP who quit over Dominic Cummings row now wants top job

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The announcement from Douglas Ross follows Jackson Carlaw 's surprise decision to stand down .
Ruth Davidson , who resigned as the Scottish Tory leader after eight years last August , is poised to front the party until a new leader is chosen .
She will then take up a peerage at the House of Lords , which was confirmed yesterday .
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the next Holyrood election in May if he wins the party leadership contest but will also continue as the MP for Moray .
The 37-year-old is viewed as a rising star in the party and became a minister in the Scotland Office in the wake of Boris Johnson 's election victory last year .
But he quit the Government payroll in May over Mr Cummings ' decision to travel to Durham from his home in London at the height of the national lockdown .
At the time he said could not tell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one senior adviser to the Government was right '' .
But yesterday he insisted Downing Street and Mr Cummings were `` absolutely not '' involved in his decision to stand .
On Ms Davidson stepping forward from the backbenches to once again take on Nicola Sturgeon in the Scottish Parliament , he added : `` I ca n't think of anyone better than Ruth to take the fight to Nicola Sturgeon , as she has done for many years as leader . ''

The announcement from Douglas Ross follows Jackson Carlaw's surprise decision to stand down. Ruth Davidson, who resigned as the Scottish Tory leader after eight years last August, is poised to front the party until a new leader is chosen. She will then take up a peerage at the House of Lords, which was confirmed yesterday. Mr Ross said he will contest a seat at the next Holyrood election in May if he wins the party leadership contest but will also continue as the MP for Moray.
The 37-year-old is viewed as a rising star in the party and became a minister in the Scotland Office in the wake of Boris Johnson's election victory last year.
But he quit the Government payroll in May over Mr Cummings' decision to travel to Durham from his home in London at the height of the national lockdown.
At the time he said could not tell voters they "were all wrong and one senior adviser to the Government was right".
But yesterday he insisted Downing Street and Mr Cummings were "absolutely not" involved in his decision to stand.
On Ms Davidson stepping forward from the backbenches to once again take on Nicola Sturgeon in the Scottish Parliament, he added: "I can't think of anyone better than Ruth to take the fight to Nicola Sturgeon, as she has done for many years as leader."


thedailyexpress--2020-08-01--Scottish prosecutor could consider if Sturgeon broke law over 'devastating' care home cris

The Scottish Conservatives have written to Lord Advocate James Wolffe QC , saying SNP ministers ' actions have had `` harrowing and devastating consequences for the residential care home sector '' .
The party claims the decision in March to move elderly patients from hospitals into care homes could breach the Public Health Act 2008 , which sets out a duty on the Government to `` protect the community '' from infectious disease .
Scottish Conservative health spokesman Miles Briggs said `` answers on this matter are urgently required '' .
It comes after Scottish Government figures show more than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into care homes in March - before a requirement for them to be tested for COVID-19 was introduced .
National Records of Scotland data has revealed that between March 16 and July 19 , there were 2,365 ( 54 percent ) more deaths in Scotland 's care homes than average - with COVID-19 the underlying cause in 1,873 ( 79 percent ) of these excess deaths .
This week , Express.co.uk also reported that the Scottish care watchdog was warned about staff shortages at care homes on 179 occasions between April 3 and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ obtained by Disclosure revealed 30 red warnings were sent to the Care Inspectorate between these dates , indicating an insufficient number of staff to properly meet residents ' needs .
Care homes also issued 149 amber warnings over this period , indicating resources were stretched and staffing levels were close to affecting the quality of care .
Mr Briggs said : `` The SNP Government failed the residents , staff and families of our care homes .
`` The decisions and guidance issued from the SNP Government had real and terrible consequences .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ watering ' plan to give Scots up to £6,000 pa '' Families across Scotland are now seeking answers as to what happened to their loved ones and what has gone so wrong in Scotland - that is why I have referred this to the Lord Advocate .
`` It is vital that Nicola Sturgeon and SNP ministers are held accountable for these mistakes and for them to ultimately take responsibility . ''
Monica Lennon MSP , Scottish Labour ’ s health spokeswoman , added : “ The continued refusal to provide details on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of deaths at a care home level means that families continue to be left in the dark .
“ The least that should be provided is clear information about the prevalence of the virus and the suspected death rates in each care home .
DO N'T MISS : Fight for Union on the brink - Tories admit independence majority view [ REVEAL ] Scots face ‘ extremely worrying ’ waiting times for surgery post COVID [ JUST IN ] Sturgeon forced into huge u-turn after SNP accused of exploiting COVID [ INSIGHT @ @ @ @ @ @ @ board as a blanket policy is completely unacceptable , and it should be made public .
“ Fears over this secrecy only highlights the wider concerns about accountability in care.
” But the First Minister , speaking at her coronavirus briefing , said no decision about care homes had been taken lightly , adding : `` They were all taken at the time with the best of intentions to try to protect people in care homes .
`` The weight of what has happened in care homes , and the implications of that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and always will .

Sturgeon able to 'distract' from virus 'scandal' says Briggs
The Scottish Conservatives have written to Lord Advocate James Wolffe QC, saying SNP ministers' actions have had "harrowing and devastating consequences for the residential care home sector". The party claims the decision in March to move elderly patients from hospitals into care homes could breach the Public Health Act 2008, which sets out a duty on the Government to "protect the community" from infectious disease.
Trending
Scottish Conservative health spokesman Miles Briggs said "answers on this matter are urgently required". It comes after Scottish Government figures show more than 900 elderly patients were discharged from hospital into care homes in March - before a requirement for them to be tested for COVID-19 was introduced. National Records of Scotland data has revealed that between March 16 and July 19, there were 2,365 (54 percent) more deaths in Scotland's care homes than average - with COVID-19 the underlying cause in 1,873 (79 percent) of these excess deaths. This week, Express.co.uk also reported that the Scottish care watchdog was warned about staff shortages at care homes on 179 occasions between April 3 and June 17.
Recent figures revealed that care homes were sort staffed
Scottish Health Secretary Jeane Freeman takes questions from MSPs
Freedom of information requests obtained by Disclosure revealed 30 red warnings were sent to the Care Inspectorate between these dates, indicating an insufficient number of staff to properly meet residents' needs. Care homes also issued 149 amber warnings over this period, indicating resources were stretched and staffing levels were close to affecting the quality of care. Mr Briggs said: "The SNP Government failed the residents, staff and families of our care homes. "The decisions and guidance issued from the SNP Government had real and terrible consequences. READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon's 'eye watering' plan to give Scots up to £6,000 pa
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Ms Freeman was previously questioned over care home testing
"Families across Scotland are now seeking answers as to what happened to their loved ones and what has gone so wrong in Scotland - that is why I have referred this to the Lord Advocate. "It is vital that Nicola Sturgeon and SNP ministers are held accountable for these mistakes and for them to ultimately take responsibility." Monica Lennon MSP, Scottish Labour’s health spokeswoman, added: “The continued refusal to provide details on the level of the virus and the number of deaths at a care home level means that families continue to be left in the dark. “The least that should be provided is clear information about the prevalence of the virus and the suspected death rates in each care home. DON'T MISS:
Fight for Union on the brink - Tories admit independence majority view [REVEAL]
Scots face ‘extremely worrying’ waiting times for surgery post COVID [JUST IN]
Sturgeon forced into huge u-turn after SNP accused of exploiting COVID [INSIGHT]
Miles Briggs has lodged a complaint
“Withholding this information across the board as a blanket policy is completely unacceptable, and it should be made public. “Fears over this secrecy only highlights the wider concerns about accountability in care.” But the First Minister, speaking at her coronavirus briefing, said no decision about care homes had been taken lightly, adding: "They were all taken at the time with the best of intentions to try to protect people in care homes. "The weight of what has happened in care homes, and the implications of that, certainly weight very heavily on me and always will.
A significant number of deaths have occurred in Scottish care homes