thedailyexpress--2020-12-27--Brexit LIVE: Labour MPs plot to defy Keir Starmer and vote against Boris’ Brexit deal

One opposition MP told the Daily Mail : “ We don ’ t want to get Brexit blood on our hands.
” Neil Coyle , MP for Bermondsey , publicly came out in opposition to the deal , saying Boris Johnson ’ s “ downgrade for the UK should not have any Labour fingerprints on it ” .
Several frontbenchers are reportedly among those digging in their heels .
Reports suggested Labour frontbenchers Anneliese Dodds , Emily Thornberry , David Lammy and Bridget Phillipson wanted the party to abstain on the crunch vote .
MPs will be recalled from their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the last-minute trade accord , with the session starting at 9.30am .
Due to Mr Johnson ’ s hefty majority , the agreement will almost certainly be passed by Parliament .
Meanwhile , the EU 's 27 member states indicated they will within days give their formal backing to the deal , which covers about £660 billion of trade to allow goods to be sold without tariffs or quotas in the EU market .
SEE BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES : The SNP has said it will vote against the post-Brexit trade deal struck @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meets on Wednesday .
Ian Blackford , the party 's leader in Westminster , said : `` Boris Johnson 's extreme Tory Brexit is an unforgivable act of economic vandalism and gross stupidity , which will cause lasting damage to the economy and leave the UK much worse off at the worst possible time - during a pandemic and economic recession .
`` With the Labour Party lining up behind Boris Johnson , it is clear Westminster will impose this hard Tory Brexit regardless of how Scotland votes , but it is not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is a disaster for Scotland . ''
Boris Johnson 's post-Brexit trade deal with the EU leaves workers ' rights and environmental protections at risk of erosion and will slow the economic recovery , an early analysis has warned .
The IPPR think tank 's assessment , published on Sunday , says that the bar for proof of breaches of the `` level playing field '' to safeguard the issues is so high that it will be rarely enforced .
Marley Morris , a director focusing on trade and EU relations , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not to decrease current standards in a bid to gain an unfair competitive advantage is `` considerably weaker than expected '' and sets `` a very high bar for proof '' .
His report says : `` Given it is notoriously difficult to prove that any lowering of protections affects trade or investment , the deal is unlikely to prevent the UK Government from weakening EU-derived labour and environmental policies if it so chooses . ''
He later added : `` This leaves protections for workers , climate and the environment at serious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chancellor Anneliese Dodds has urged colleagues not to defy the Labour leadership 's orders by opposing the Brexit trade deal with the EU despite grave concerns over the treaty .
On Sunday , Ms Dodds said MPs must support the deal in order to give certainty to businesses ahead of the end of the Brexit transition period on Thursday .
Asked about a possible Labour rebellion , she told BBC Breakfast : `` I obviously do n't want to see that , I want to see a situation where we have as much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We 've heard for example that there may well be some members of the European Research Group on the Conservative side who are saying that they are going to be voting against this implementing legislation - I do n't think that 's sensible .
`` I 'm not going to say to you that this is the deal that Labour would have secured because it really is n't - this is a thin deal - but we do n't want to create more problems for businesses right now by preventing the implementation of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 12.33pm update : UK MUST follow EU rules !
Leo Varadkar says Brussels has power to BLOCK Britain from market Ireland 's deputy prime minister Leo Varadkar has said that the UK 's access to the European market is `` not unconditional '' as he sought to dampen the bright mood among Brexiteers over Boris Johnson 's trade deal .
The Tanaiste said the UK-EU trade deal allows British businesses to have access to the single market but certain conditions would be attached .
He told Newstalk : `` It does still give @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a market of 400 million people , the biggest and wealthiest market in the world .
`` They do n't have to pay tariffs or quotas either which is advantageous to them .
`` But it 's not unconditional .
So what they have agreed to is what we call a level playing field .
`` They have agreed to a non-regression clause in all but name , so we said you can only have access to the market if you do n't reduce your standards when it comes to workers ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ safety , product standards - all of those things . ''
11.44am update : Sunak lays out vision to attract firms to London post-Brexit Rishi Sunak addressed the impact of the trade deal with the EU on the financial services industry , saying : `` Our financial services industry is something we should be enormously proud of .
`` It 's something we are globally best in class at , contributes an enormous amount to our economy , employs over a million people across the country , not just in the City of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the future of our financial services industry a little while ago , talking about our future , making sure that this remains the most competitive , dynamic place to do business anywhere in the world , that we remain open to creating new relationships with lots of different trading partners - for example , Switzerland most recently - but also that we remain the most technologically advanced place to conduct financial services .
`` I think that ambitious vision was warmly welcomed by various stakeholders .
`` Now that we 've left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a bit differently and we 're embarking on that journey , for example , examining how we make the City of London the most attractive place to list new companies anywhere in the world .
`` But this deal also provides reassurance because there 's a stable , regulatory co-operative framework mentioned in the deal which I think will give people that reassurance that we will remain in close dialogue with our European partners . ''
10.47am update : Hardline Brexiteers on brink of BACKING EU trade deal as Boris ‘ achieved the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ night edging towards giving Boris Johnson backing for `` a pretty good deal '' which has defied the claims of the European Union and their Remainer allies .
After the Government published the 1,246 page document yesterday morning , the so-called Star Chamber of lawyers advising the European Research Group ( ERG ) of Conservative MPs started pouring over details to advise whether it could be backed or not .
Among the lawyers were eminent QC Martin Howe , the chairman of Lawyers for Britain ; veteran Tory Brexiteer MP Sir Bill Cash @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But a senior source in the powerful ERG said that while the deal is not perfect it is still “ pretty good ” and should get the group ’ s backing .
The MP said : “ Boris [ Johnson ] has achieved what we were told could not be achieved which is tariff free access to the Single Market without being subject to their rules or the European Court of Justice .
“ Looking at this deal you have to wonder why we spent all these years as a member state paying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when we could have had this access with a trade deal.
” 10.21am update : Brexiteer Hannan hails Boris ’ s 'extraordinary ' Brexit win but warns of ‘ price to pay ’ Daniel Hannan has lauded Boris Johnson for achieving an `` extraordinary '' feat in striking a trade deal with the EU while also revving up no deal preparations across the country .
Mr Hannan ’ s support for the agreement comes just days after the Prime Minister named him on a list of 16 new political peers .
The former @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s last-minute pact with Brussels is clearly a compromise , the demands of Brexit voters who wanted to take back control of their country have been honoured under the deal .
Writing in the Daily Telegraph , he said : “ Like all treaties , this one is a compromise .
It secures the objectives that Britain set itself , maintaining free trade while recovering sovereignty .
“ The Vote Leave promise to take back control of ‘ our money , our borders and our laws ’ has been honoured .
Naturally , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 9.45am update : Sunak says deal is unifying moment for UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak has said the trade deal can represent a unifying moment for the UK .
He Britain would now be free to do things differently with the financial services industry after the country leaves the Brexit transition period .
He said people would be reassured that the UK would remain in close dialogue with Brussels over issues such as equivalence in the financial services industry .
9.17am update : Redwood calls on Government to ban pulse fishing to show 'we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexiteer Sir John Redwood has called on the Government to ban pulse fishing to show the UK has `` taken back control '' of its seas after the Brexit transition period ends .
He tweeted : `` Will the government now ban foreign supertrawlers and pulse fishing in our seas ?
`` That would show we had taken back control and look after our fishing grounds and marine environment . ''
8.11am update : Johnson touts ‘ big ’ changes as Tory Brexiteers pore over deal Boris Johnson has touted post-Brexit changes to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Conservative Eurosceptics scrutinised his trade agreement with the EU .
The Prime Minister said that Chancellor Rishi Sunak is `` doing a big exercise on all of this '' but insisted that the UK would not regress on workers ' rights or environmental standards .
Scrutiny of the treaty began in earnest when the 1,246-page document was officially published on the morning of Boxing Day - less than a week before its implementation .
It was quickly met with severe criticism from those working in the fishing industry who said they had been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the deal with Brussels .
The Prime Minister said that , although he accepts that `` the devil is in the detail '' of the deal , he believes that it will stand up to inspection from the European Research Group ( ERG ) of Brexiteers .
The group has convened a self-styled `` star chamber '' of lawyers led by veteran Eurosceptic MP Sir Bill Cash to examine the full text ahead of a Commons vote .

Brexit: Campbell says Labour ‘should not support deal’
Under the trade agreement, EU fleets will return 25 percent of fish caught in UK waters over five and a half years. Fishermen in parts of the country have hit out at the Prime Minister for what they call a betrayal. Chris Vinnicombe said: "This deal is a sell out to the UK fishermen, something which Boris and the Government said they’d never do. "This deal makes a mockery of the referendum vote to leave the EU, it appears to keep us following EU rules and regulations and holds us over a barrel should we decide to change anything in the future.
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"This is a disaster for the fishing industry, and you being the wife of a fishermen I look to you to stand up and be counted for the sake of the fishing community here in Cornwall." Up to 20 Labour MPs are on track to leave Sir Keir Starmer red-faced as they vow to defy his call to vote for the EU trade deal in his biggest Brexit showdown since becoming the party's leader. The group of rebels said they do not want to play a part in waving through the Prime Minister’s free trade deal, which he announced on Christmas Eve after negotiators worked through the night. They have indicated they will either abstain or vote against the deal with just days before the UK leaves the Brexit transition period.
Up to 20 Labour MPs are poised to defy Sir Keir's call to vote for the PM's trade deal
One opposition MP told the Daily Mail: “We don’t want to get Brexit blood on our hands.” Neil Coyle, MP for Bermondsey, publicly came out in opposition to the deal, saying Boris Johnson’s “downgrade for the UK should not have any Labour fingerprints on it”. Several frontbenchers are reportedly among those digging in their heels. Reports suggested Labour frontbenchers Anneliese Dodds, Emily Thornberry, David Lammy and Bridget Phillipson wanted the party to abstain on the crunch vote. Shadow Chancellor Ms Dodds wanted the Prime Minister to “own” a Brexit disaster, reports suggested.
Boris Johnson said he had struck a 'Canada-style free trade deal' with the EU
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But Sir Keir said Labour would back the deal “in the public interest” as it was better than a no-deal Brexit.
Hours after Mr Johnson made a victory speech announcing the details of his deal with Brussels, Sir Keir said MPs in his party would be whipped to vote in favour of the agreement in a special sitting of the Commons on Wednesday. MPs will be recalled from their Christmas break to debate and vote on the last-minute trade accord, with the session starting at 9.30am.
Due to Mr Johnson’s hefty majority, the agreement will almost certainly be passed by Parliament.
Meanwhile, the EU's 27 member states indicated they will within days give their formal backing to the deal, which covers about £660 billion of trade to allow goods to be sold without tariffs or quotas in the EU market. SEE BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES:
9.28pm update: Remainer myth dismantled as Tesco chief ends concerns over food price rises post-Brexit Brexit Britain has been handed a huge boost after a Tesco chief insisted prices would be largely unaffected by leaving the European Union. Prime Minister Boris Johnson reached an historic Brexit trade deal with the European Union on December 24. The landmark agreement - worth more than £600billion - allows goods and services to flow freely to and from Europe without any tariffs. Tesco chairman John Allan has said the agreement means any changes to food prices will be “very modest indeed" and stated it would “hardly be felt in terms of the prices that consumers are paying".
Brexit: Ian Blackford grilled over SNP's stance on trade deal
8.24pm update: Brexit bonanza: Boris Johnson set to sign landmark trade deal with Turkey this week Brexit Britain is set to sign a landmark trade deal with Turkey this week in vital breakthrough as the UK leaves the single market. The two negotiating teams will now move to finalise the terms of the continuity agreement before the end of the year. Turkey had been waiting for the UK and EU to agree a deal due to the state being involved in Europe's customs union. The continuity agreement is largely based on the deal with the EU and is expected to be signed this week in a video call. 6.47pm update: Verhostadt mocked for anti-Brexit dig as Boris launches "superior" Turing programme Guy Verhofstadt has been brutally mocked after launching a bitter anti-Brexit jibe towards the UK. Although the UK and EU finally agreed on Brexit deal, the MEP could not resist a final taunt aimed towards Britain. Despite the bumper new scheme launched by the UK Government, the Irish government has announced it will support Northern Irish students wanting to participate in the Erasmus+ scheme. He said: "Praise for the Irish Government for keeping the Erasmus programme alive for young people in Northern Ireland." However, many were quick to defend the new Turing scheme despite Mr Vehrofstadt's claim. One person said: "The Turing Scheme is superior in every way, funding far more British places, with more and vastly better universities and helping poorer young people." Another said: "No EU university is in the top 20 worldwide."
Brexit news: Guy Verhofstadt praised the Irish government
Brexit news: Guy Verhofstadt
6.01pm update: Let it go! Desperate Remainers to hold 12-hour vigil to mourn Brexit Desperate Remainers are planning to hold a 12-hour vigil to mourn the end of freedom of movement as the Brexit transition period ends on December 31. The anti-Brexit group called “New Europeans” has announced plans to mark the end of the freedom of movement of people between the UK and the EU as new laws come into force at 11pm on December 31. A virtual event featuring testimonies from pro-EU supporters will be live-streamed on social media from 11am-11pm on New Year’s Eve. On its website, the group is described as a “civil rights organisation which champions freedom of movement, non-discrimination and the principle of solidarity in Europe”. 5.31pm update: Fishermen call out Boris Johnson's Brexit deal Speaking to the Falmouth Packet, local fishermen have criticised the Prime Minister's Brexit deal. Chris Vinnicombe said: "This deal is a sell out to the UK fishermen, something which Boris and the Government said they’d never do. We’ve had assurances that we would not be sold out or traded away all the way through the Brexit negotiation from the Government. "The fishing industry deserved better than this, I look to you to hold the Government's position to account. This deal makes a mockery of the referendum vote to leave the EU, it appears to keep us following EU rules and regulations and holds us over a barrel should we decide to change anything in the future. "This is a disaster for the fishing industry, and you being the wife of a fishermen I look to you to stand up and be counted for the sake of the fishing community here in Cornwall." Barrie Deas, chief executive of the National Federation of Fishermen's Organisation also said: "When push came to shove, despite the legal, moral and political strength of our case, fishing was sacrificed for other national objectives. “Lacking legal, moral, or political negotiating leverage on fish, the EU made the whole trade deal contingent on a UK surrender on fisheries. “In the end-game, the Prime Minister made the call and caved in on fish, despite the rhetoric and assurances that he would not do what Ted Heath did in 1973.”
Fisheries zones during the UK's membership of the EU
4.43pm update: Nigel Farage warns of ‘major concessions’ in Brexit deal which will anger Brexiteers Nigel Farage has warned of "major concessions" made by Boris Johnson in his post-Brexit trade deal with the European Union. The Brexit Party leader insisted the agreement is not what he campaigned for or what won the Prime Minister his landslide victory in the 2019 general election. He highlighted areas he believes Mr Johnson and his chief negotiator Lord Frost caved in to Brussels on - and branded the fishing terms "rotten". Writing in the Daily Mail, Mr Farage said: "I am sorry to say that for all the tough talk of Mr Johnson and his chief negotiator, Lord Frost, some major concessions have been made. "Northern Ireland has been cut off from the rest of the UK; the European Human Rights regime will remain in place here; our coastal communities have been saddled with a rotten fishing deal; and EU firms will still be allowed to tender for UK government contracts. "In regulatory terms, the EU will hold a Sword of Damocles over Britain with the threat of immediate tariffs if they judge that Britain is being too competitive. "This is not what I campaigned for and it most certainly is not what Boris Johnson's supporters voted for in the 2019 General Election. "These handicaps will not allow Britain to transform itself into the Singapore-style entity in a European time zone that it could become."
Brexit: Bridgen slams Keir Starmer's position on trade deal
3.41pm update: Britons furious as Brexit blockers plot to vote down deal ‘They think they know better?!’ Remainers have drawn the wrath of Brexit supporters over their plans to vote down the Prime Minister's trade deal, with some suggesting the rebel MPs were behaving in an elitist fashion like they "know better than the people". Labour peer Lord Adonis has said he will vote against the “worst trade reduction treaty in British history” while up to 20 Labour MPs are rumoured to be plotting similar action. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has said he will whip MPs to vote for the deal, but a rebel group, including frontbenchers, may defy his order to either abstain or vote against the accord. Brexit supporters are up in arms over the reluctance of some lawmakers to throw their support behind the last-minute deal, which was announced on Christmas Eve. Express.co.uk readers were quick to make their anger known. One person said if Lord Adonis did not give up his desperate fight to stop the Brexit process soon he would make himself sick. They wrote: “I almost feel sorry for Lord Adonis. He’s going to make himself ill.”
Brexit timeline
3.10pm update: Tory MP attacks Keir Starmer over Brexit position Speaking on LBC Radio today, Tory MP and member of the European Research Group (ERG), Andrew Brigden poked fun at the leader of the Opposition for pledging to support the Brexit deal without having read it first. He said: "Sir Keir Starmer's had more positions on Brexit than the Kama Sutra. "I find it a bit of a joke actually that he was announcing that 'we are going to whip for support' and he'd never even read the deal. "It makes a bit of a mockery when you say you're going to vote for something when you've not even read it." Bill McLoughlin takes over from Laura O'Callaghan. 2.12pm update: SNP will vote against trade deal The SNP has said it will vote against the post-Brexit trade deal struck with the EU, when the Commons meets on Wednesday. Ian Blackford, the party's leader in Westminster, said: "Boris Johnson's extreme Tory Brexit is an unforgivable act of economic vandalism and gross stupidity, which will cause lasting damage to the economy and leave the UK much worse off at the worst possible time - during a pandemic and economic recession. "With the Labour Party lining up behind Boris Johnson, it is clear Westminster will impose this hard Tory Brexit regardless of how Scotland votes, but it is not being done in our name. "It is a disaster for Scotland."
Sir Keir announced on Christmas Eve Labour MPs would be whipped to vote for the deal
1.58pm update: Trade deal risks erosion of workers' rights, analysis warns Boris Johnson's post-Brexit trade deal with the EU leaves workers' rights and environmental protections at risk of erosion and will slow the economic recovery, an early analysis has warned. The IPPR think tank's assessment, published on Sunday, says that the bar for proof of breaches of the "level playing field" to safeguard the issues is so high that it will be rarely enforced. Marley Morris, a director focusing on trade and EU relations, warned that the commitment in the deal not to decrease current standards in a bid to gain an unfair competitive advantage is "considerably weaker than expected" and sets "a very high bar for proof". His report says: "Given it is notoriously difficult to prove that any lowering of protections affects trade or investment, the deal is unlikely to prevent the UK Government from weakening EU-derived labour and environmental policies if it so chooses." He later added: "This leaves protections for workers, climate and the environment at serious risk of being eroded." 1.08pm update: Labour MPs urged to back 'thin' Brexit deal despite concerns Shadow Chancellor Anneliese Dodds has urged colleagues not to defy the Labour leadership's orders by opposing the Brexit trade deal with the EU despite grave concerns over the treaty. On Sunday, Ms Dodds said MPs must support the deal in order to give certainty to businesses ahead of the end of the Brexit transition period on Thursday. Asked about a possible Labour rebellion, she told BBC Breakfast: "I obviously don't want to see that, I want to see a situation where we have as much certainty for businesses as possible. "We've heard for example that there may well be some members of the European Research Group on the Conservative side who are saying that they are going to be voting against this implementing legislation - I don't think that's sensible. "I'm not going to say to you that this is the deal that Labour would have secured because it really isn't - this is a thin deal - but we don't want to create more problems for businesses right now by preventing the implementation of what the Government has achieved."
After reports suggested she would not back the deal, Anneliese Dodds has come out in support of it
12.33pm update: UK MUST follow EU rules! Leo Varadkar says Brussels has power to BLOCK Britain from market Ireland's deputy prime minister Leo Varadkar has said that the UK's access to the European market is "not unconditional" as he sought to dampen the bright mood among Brexiteers over Boris Johnson's trade deal. The Tanaiste said the UK-EU trade deal allows British businesses to have access to the single market but certain conditions would be attached. He told Newstalk: "It does still give them access to the European single market, a market of 400 million people, the biggest and wealthiest market in the world. "They don't have to pay tariffs or quotas either which is advantageous to them. "But it's not unconditional. So what they have agreed to is what we call a level playing field. "They have agreed to a non-regression clause in all but name, so we said you can only have access to the market if you don't reduce your standards when it comes to workers' rights, the environment, health and safety, product standards - all of those things." 11.44am update: Sunak lays out vision to attract firms to London post-Brexit Rishi Sunak addressed the impact of the trade deal with the EU on the financial services industry, saying: "Our financial services industry is something we should be enormously proud of. "It's something we are globally best in class at, contributes an enormous amount to our economy, employs over a million people across the country, not just in the City of London. "I made a statement about the future of our financial services industry a little while ago, talking about our future, making sure that this remains the most competitive, dynamic place to do business anywhere in the world, that we remain open to creating new relationships with lots of different trading partners - for example, Switzerland most recently - but also that we remain the most technologically advanced place to conduct financial services. "I think that ambitious vision was warmly welcomed by various stakeholders. "Now that we've left the European Union we can do things a bit differently and we're embarking on that journey, for example, examining how we make the City of London the most attractive place to list new companies anywhere in the world. "But this deal also provides reassurance because there's a stable, regulatory co-operative framework mentioned in the deal which I think will give people that reassurance that we will remain in close dialogue with our European partners."
Rishi Sunak has said he is working to attract global firms to London post-Brexit
10.47am update: Hardline Brexiteers on brink of BACKING EU trade deal as Boris ‘achieved the unachievable’ Brexiteer Tory MPs were last night edging towards giving Boris Johnson backing for "a pretty good deal" which has defied the claims of the European Union and their Remainer allies. After the Government published the 1,246 page document yesterday morning, the so-called Star Chamber of lawyers advising the European Research Group (ERG) of Conservative MPs started pouring over details to advise whether it could be backed or not. Among the lawyers were eminent QC Martin Howe, the chairman of Lawyers for Britain; veteran Tory Brexiteer MP Sir Bill Cash and former Brexit minister David Jones. But a senior source in the powerful ERG said that while the deal is not perfect it is still “pretty good” and should get the group’s backing. The MP said: “Boris [Johnson] has achieved what we were told could not be achieved which is tariff free access to the Single Market without being subject to their rules or the European Court of Justice. “Looking at this deal you have to wonder why we spent all these years as a member state paying £10 billion a year into the EU when we could have had this access with a trade deal.” 10.21am update: Brexiteer Hannan hails Boris’s 'extraordinary' Brexit win but warns of ‘price to pay’ Daniel Hannan has lauded Boris Johnson for achieving an "extraordinary" feat in striking a trade deal with the EU while also revving up no deal preparations across the country. Mr Hannan’s support for the agreement comes just days after the Prime Minister named him on a list of 16 new political peers. The former Conservative MEP said while Mr Johnson’s last-minute pact with Brussels is clearly a compromise, the demands of Brexit voters who wanted to take back control of their country have been honoured under the deal. Writing in the Daily Telegraph, he said: “Like all treaties, this one is a compromise. It secures the objectives that Britain set itself, maintaining free trade while recovering sovereignty. “The Vote Leave promise to take back control of ‘our money, our borders and our laws’ has been honoured. Naturally, there was a price to pay.”
Brexit: Ed Davey slams 'red tape bonanza' trade deal


thedailyexpress--2020-12-27--Michel Barnier in 'hilarious meltdown' during Brexit deal row with Boris Johnson's team

It was one of a number of outbursts by Mr Barnier , the EU ’ s chief negotiator , which became known as “ Michel ’ s calm and serene moments ” , according to The Sunday Times .
A British official told the newspaper of the comical reaction to demands , which prompted his response : “ Why do you keep mentioning ‘ sovereignty ? '
“ All you do is mention this word.
” It describes another meeting in which an angry Mr Barnier yelled : “ I am calm !
” Aside from being an insight into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it shows a difference in principles : EU leaders value pooling sovereignty .
This is further demonstrated by European Parliament Vice President Heidi Hautala describing the perceived British obsession with sovereignty as “ pathetic ” .
Talking to LBC last week before the deal was struck , the Finnish MEP said : `` I think the closer we get to the Brexit date , December 31 , the more often we hear about sovereignty .
“ From the EU 's point of view , this is a world where we need trans-national cooperation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sovereignty .
`` I find it totally pathetic to continue to talk about sovereignty in the modern world .
`` I 'm sure the UK and the EU will start to discuss common issues like climate change , as soon as they get past this difficult period . ''
READ MORE : Brexit blow as fishing leaders accuse Boris of ‘ CAVING IN ’ to get deal Mr Barnier is not the only EU bigwig to vocalise his inner tensions on Brexit matters .
Guy Verhofstadt , MEP and former Brexit coordinator , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The former prime minister of Belgium took a swipe at Britain on Twitter after countries closed their borders following the discovery of a Covid-19 mutation - just before the Brexit deal was finalised .
It led to huge tailbacks in Kent and lorries forced to park at Manston Airport .
Mr Verhofstadt wrote : “ We forgot what borders look like .
DO N'T MISS : Britain dodged a bullet as EU attempted power grab to punish UK [ INSIGHT ] Hardline Brexiteers on brink of BACKING EU trade deal [ REVEAL ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Europe after Brexit deal ?
[ SPOTLIGHT ]

Boris Johnson: Brexit deal is ‘glad tidings of great joy’
It was one of a number of outbursts by Mr Barnier, the EU’s chief negotiator, which became known as “Michel’s calm and serene moments”, according to The Sunday Times. A British official told the newspaper of the comical reaction to demands, which prompted his response: “Why do you keep mentioning ‘sovereignty'?
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“All you do is mention this word.” It describes another meeting in which an angry Mr Barnier yelled: “I am calm!” The negotiation meeting in March involved UK counterpart Lord David Frost. Aside from being an insight into the diplomat’s changeable temperament, it shows a difference in principles: EU leaders value pooling sovereignty. This is further demonstrated by European Parliament Vice President Heidi Hautala describing the perceived British obsession with sovereignty as “pathetic”.
Michel Barnier had a 'hilarious meltdown'
UK Chief Negotiator of Task Force Europe, Lord Frost on December 24
Talking to LBC last week before the deal was struck, the Finnish MEP said: "I think the closer we get to the Brexit date, December 31, the more often we hear about sovereignty. “From the EU's point of view, this is a world where we need trans-national cooperation, where we need to pool our sovereignty. "I find it totally pathetic to continue to talk about sovereignty in the modern world. "I'm sure the UK and the EU will start to discuss common issues like climate change, as soon as they get past this difficult period." READ MORE: Brexit blow as fishing leaders accuse Boris of ‘CAVING IN’ to get deal
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Prime Minister Boris Johnson
Mr Barnier is not the only EU bigwig to vocalise his inner tensions on Brexit matters. Guy Verhofstadt, MEP and former Brexit coordinator, could not resist tweeting inflammatory remarks. The former prime minister of Belgium took a swipe at Britain on Twitter after countries closed their borders following the discovery of a Covid-19 mutation - just before the Brexit deal was finalised. It led to huge tailbacks in Kent and lorries forced to park at Manston Airport. Mr Verhofstadt wrote: “We forgot what borders look like. DON'T MISS:
Britain dodged a bullet as EU attempted power grab to punish UK [INSIGHT]
Hardline Brexiteers on brink of BACKING EU trade deal [REVEAL]
Will my UK driving licence be valid in Europe after Brexit deal? [SPOTLIGHT]
Brexit timeline
We forgot what borders look like.
Some thought they would remain open with or without the EU.
They will now start to understand what leaving the EU really means... https://t.co/N4CHgJqLJj — Guy Verhofstadt (@guyverhofstadt) December 22, 2020


thedailyexpress--2020-12-27--What do you WANT, Soubry? Brexiteer Hannan mocks Remainer after deal tantrum

With just days before the end of the transition period on December 31 , Boris Johnson secured a historic trade deal with the EU on Christmas Eve after months of gridlocked negotiations .
But while many have celebrated the crucial deal , Remainers have already lashed out at the agreement .
On Christmas Eve , Anna Soubry - who left the Tory party over its `` hardline Brexit stance '' - tweeted : “ Never before has a country so spectacularly shot itself in the foot .
“ We are no longer ‘ Great ‘ Britain or a United Kingdom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ single market and customs union diminishes our country , will make us all a little poorer and narrow our horizons.
” But now , Brexiteer Dan Hannan has mocked Ms Soubry saying she has yet to “ digest ” the document as it was only published today .
Writing in the Daily Telegraph , he said : “ This , remember , is not her response to leaving the EU , which happened 11 months ago ; it is her response to agreeing cordial relations .
“ Neither Soubry nor anyone else has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pages of text of course .
“ The treaty was only published only today .
READ MORE : Nicola Sturgeon brutally torn apart by Brexiteers “ But ignorance has not stopped people opining with certainty and , often , with fury.
” He continued : “ Eurosceptics are supposed to want looser ties with the EU , yet they are applauding a long and comprehensive agreement with it .
“ Europhiles are meant to love Brussels , .
But they can ’ t disguise their annoyance that a dal has been done.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prime Minister for being ready for a no deal outcome , unlike his predecessor .
DO N'T MISS Brexit deal will keep Red Wall seats blue for years says ALEX STAFFORD [ COMMENT ] Brexiteer says Von der Leyen 's speech shows EXACTLY why UK voted leave [ REVEAL ] Britons furious as Brexit deal accused of fishing sell out [ INSIGHT ] He continued : “ We keep being told that the resulting treaty is ‘ thin ’ , but it is remarkably broad , covering aviation , energy , social security @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ UK-based car makers , for example , have got the deal on rules of origin they wanted .
“ Instead of facing gridlock in Kent on January 1 , we are likely to see the end of the pile-up that has happened under the existing terms.
” But Mr Hannan does admit there have been concessions with the EU claiming “ three main wins ” .
He added : “ First , it is helping itself to a shovelful of our fish as we leave - though , given the capacity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increase in our share was inevitable .
“ Second , it has secured a deeper accord on goods trade , where it has a big surplus with the UK , than on services , where it runs a deficit .
“ Third , it has given itself the right to impose tariffs if it thinks the UK is undercutting its social or environmental standards.
” Announcing the deal , a Downing Street source said : `` We have taken back control of our money , borders , laws , trade and our fishing @ @

Brexit: ‘No pressure’ for Joe Biden to strike trade deal says expert
With just days before the end of the transition period on December 31, Boris Johnson secured a historic trade deal with the EU on Christmas Eve after months of gridlocked negotiations.
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But while many have celebrated the crucial deal, Remainers have already lashed out at the agreement. On Christmas Eve, Anna Soubry - who left the Tory party over its "hardline Brexit stance" - tweeted: “Never before has a country so spectacularly shot itself in the foot. “We are no longer ‘Great‘ Britain or a United Kingdom. “Leaving the EU, the single market and customs union diminishes our country, will make us all a little poorer and narrow our horizons.”
Brexiteer Dan Hannan mocks Anna Soubry
Former Tory MP and Remainer Anna Soubry
But now, Brexiteer Dan Hannan has mocked Ms Soubry saying she has yet to “digest” the document as it was only published today. Writing in the Daily Telegraph, he said: “This, remember, is not her response to leaving the EU, which happened 11 months ago; it is her response to agreeing cordial relations. “Neither Soubry nor anyone else has had a chance to digest the 1,246 pages of text of course. “The treaty was only published only today. READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon brutally torn apart by Brexiteers
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Boris Johnson secures Brexit trade deal
Brexit timeline
He continued: “We keep being told that the resulting treaty is ‘thin’, but it is remarkably broad, covering aviation, energy, social security rights, road haulage and much else. “UK-based car makers, for example, have got the deal on rules of origin they wanted. “Instead of facing gridlock in Kent on January 1, we are likely to see the end of the pile-up that has happened under the existing terms.” But Mr Hannan does admit there have been concessions with the EU claiming “three main wins”.
Anna Soubry lashes out at Boris' Brexit deal
He added: “First, it is helping itself to a shovelful of our fish as we leave - though, given the capacity of the UK fleet, a phased increase in our share was inevitable. “Second, it has secured a deeper accord on goods trade, where it has a big surplus with the UK, than on services, where it runs a deficit. “Third, it has given itself the right to impose tariffs if it thinks the UK is undercutting its social or environmental standards.” Announcing the deal, a Downing Street source said: "We have taken back control of our money, borders, laws, trade and our fishing waters.
European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen


thedailyexpress--2020-12-27--Starmer's 'concern' Labour will never get back power spurring plot to attract SNP voters

Tony Miklinski told Express.co.uk the Labour leader knows his party can not win a general election without significant support in @ @ @ @ @ Sir Keir has identified the SNP 's supporter base as a way his party can @ @ @ @ @ therefore is refusing to rule out granting another Scottish independence referendum if becomes prime minister @ @ @ @ @ `` Keir Starmer is very concerned that Labour will never get back into power unless @ @ @ @ @ of Scottish seats .
`` The only way he can get a significant number of @ @ @ @ @ people back from the SNP .
`` These are instinctively independence supporters and he wants @ @ @ @ @ wing of the debate not caring frankly what the future of the UK is .
@ @ @ @ @ in what is in the best interests of the Labour Party .
READ MORE : @ @ @ @ @ by Brexiteers

Keir Starmer 'more interested' in Labour than UK claims Miklinski
Tony Miklinski told Express.co.uk the Labour leader knows his party cannot win a general election without significant support in Scotland. He added that Sir Keir has identified the SNP's supporter base as a way his party can increase their votes share and therefore is refusing to rule out granting another Scottish independence referendum if becomes prime minister.
Trending
Mr Miklinski said: "Keir Starmer is very concerned that Labour will never get back into power unless they have a significant number of Scottish seats. "The only way he can get a significant number of Scottish seats is somehow attracting people back from the SNP. "These are instinctively independence supporters and he wants to place himself on that wing of the debate not caring frankly what the future of the UK is. "He is more interested in what is in the best interests of the Labour Party. READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon brutally torn apart by Brexiteers
Sir Keir Starmer has been the Labour Party leader since April 2020
Sir Keir Starmer is a former Shadow Brexit Secretary
"So I am really disappointed in Keir Starmer, really disappointed." The Scottish Conservative councillor added: "Keir Starmer completely misses that a vote in a general election is not related to a referendum. "We had one specific referendum, we got the result, 2014 was it. "They lost, we won, that is it for a generation."
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Brexit: Anneliese Dodds slams government's 'thin' deal
Sir Keir Starmer has previously stressed the importance of Labour succeeding in Scotland in 2024


thedailyexpress--2020-12-27--Rishi Sunak hails Britain's 'bright future' after securing post-Brexit trade deal with EU

The Chancellor of the Exchequer told reporters the UK and European Union will put divisions of the past behind them @ @ @ @ @ agreement had been reached with the EU on Christmas Eve .
The Conservative MP added @ @ @ @ @ rebuild from the coronavirus pandemic with the COVID-19 vaccine providing a light at the end @ @ @ @ @ Sunak said : `` It has obviously been a difficult year and a difficult winter @ @ @ @ @ the Government is continuing to work hard to protect British businesses and families through this @ @ @ @ @ is light at the end of the tunnel with the vaccine .
`` I am @ @ @ @ @ in together , we will get through this as we have done through this year @ @ @ @ @ forward to a brighter future , especially now the deal with our European friends and @ @ @ @ @ MORE : Nicola Sturgeon brutally torn apart by Brexiteers

Rishi Sunak predicts 'optimistic' future following Brexit deal
The Chancellor of the Exchequer told reporters the UK and European Union will put divisions of the past behind them after Boris Johnson confirmed an agreement had been reached with the EU on Christmas Eve. The Conservative MP added Britain can now start to rebuild from the coronavirus pandemic with the COVID-19 vaccine providing a light at the end of the tunnel.
Trending
Mr Sunak said: "It has obviously been a difficult year and a difficult winter but people should know that the Government is continuing to work hard to protect British businesses and families through this difficult time. "There is light at the end of the tunnel with the vaccine. "I am confident that if we pitch in together, we will get through this as we have done through this year. "We can look forward to a brighter future, especially now the deal with our European friends and partners is concluded. READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon brutally torn apart by Brexiteers
Rishi Sunak was appointed Chancellor in February 2020
Brexit: How customs could work under Boris Johnson's deal
"That gives us a strong platform to look forward optimistically, put the divisions of the past behind us and embrace our future with confidence and optimism. "As we hopefully get through coronavirus we can start rebuilding and create prosperity for British families up and down the country." On Christmas Eve it was announced that the UK and EU had struck an agreement regarding the terms of a free trade agreement. The announcement marked the end of years of trade talks between Britain and the trading bloc.
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Boris Johnson: Brexit deal is ‘glad tidings of great joy’
Brexit: The stages of the UK and EU securing a trade agreement


thedailyexpress--2020-12-27--Brexiteer Hannan hails Boris’s 'extraordinary' Brexit win but warns of ‘price to pay’

Mr Hannan ’ s support for the agreement comes just days after the Prime Minister named him on a list of 16 new political peers .
The former Conservative MEP said while Mr Johnson ’ s last-minute pact with Brussels is clearly a compromise , the demands of Brexit voters who wanted to take back control of their country have been honoured under the deal .
Writing in the Daily Telegraph , he said : “ Like all treaties , this one is a compromise .
It secures the objectives that Britain set itself , maintaining free trade while recovering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to take back control of ‘ our money , our borders and our laws ’ has been honoured .
Naturally , there was a price to pay.
” Mr Hannan used Mr Johnson ’ s Brexit victory to remind people of the mess he had inherited from his predecessor Theresa May when he took over from her last summer .
He said given the fact the Prime Minister inherited a dismal withdrawal agreement and no security in the House of Commons , he has “ pulled off something quite extraordinary ” .
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ threat of a no deal Brexit kept the EU on its toes .
He said : “ Unlike his predecessor , he was genuinely ready for no deal .
“ David Frost , his chief negotiator , began by telling his team that their goal was sovereignty , deal or no deal .
“ No deal was thus far closer to Britain ’ s preferred outcome than to the EU ’ s which , paradoxically , made agreement easier.
” READ MORE : Farage celebrates Brexit as he warns ‘ beginning of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ set to take his seat in the House of Lords despite being a fierce critic of the upper house in recent years .
He has in the past said the institution represents “ everything that is wrong with the administration of Britain ” .
MPs are set to vote on Mr Johnson ’ s deal in a special sitting in the House of Commons on Wednesday .
Lawmakers will be briefly recalled from their Christmas break to debate over and vote on the free trade deal .
DO N'T MISS Brexit fury as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in UK [ ANALYSIS ] Gibraltar : PM warned visas ‘ unacceptable ’ in post-Brexit agreement [ INSIGHT ] Michel Barnier in 'hilarious meltdown ' during Brexit deal row [ EXPLAINED ] Ahead of the crunch vote , the European Research Group ( ERG ) has convened a self-styled `` star chamber '' of lawyers led by veteran Eurosceptic MP Sir Bill Cash to examine the full text of the deal .
Senior Conservative backbencher Sir Bill said `` sovereignty is the key issue '' as his team analysed the small print of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit hardliners were preparing to support the deal , despite being angered by the little time they have to debate it .
No 10 's chief negotiator Lord Frost hailed the deal as beginning a `` moment of national renewal '' that he argued means the UK `` sets its own laws again '' by ensuring there is `` no more role '' for the ECJ .
But fishing bosses across the UK are up in arms over the terms of Mr Johnson ’ s deal .
Fishing for Leave called it a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to protect the longsuffering industry .

Brexit: EU 'struggling to let go' of the UK says Hannan
Mr Hannan’s support for the agreement comes just days after the Prime Minister named him on a list of 16 new political peers. The former Conservative MEP said while Mr Johnson’s last-minute pact with Brussels is clearly a compromise, the demands of Brexit voters who wanted to take back control of their country have been honoured under the deal.
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Writing in the Daily Telegraph, he said: “Like all treaties, this one is a compromise. It secures the objectives that Britain set itself, maintaining free trade while recovering sovereignty. “The Vote Leave promise to take back control of ‘our money, our borders and our laws’ has been honoured. Naturally, there was a price to pay.” Mr Hannan used Mr Johnson’s Brexit victory to remind people of the mess he had inherited from his predecessor Theresa May when he took over from her last summer. He said given the fact the Prime Minister inherited a dismal withdrawal agreement and no security in the House of Commons, he has “pulled off something quite extraordinary”.
Brexiteer Daniel Hannan has hailed Boris Johnson's 'extraordinary' Brexit feat
Daniel Hannan said give the circumstances he inherited, the PM had pulled off an extraordinary feat
Mr Hannan said Mr Johnson’s continued threat of a no deal Brexit kept the EU on its toes. He said: “Unlike his predecessor, he was genuinely ready for no deal. “David Frost, his chief negotiator, began by telling his team that their goal was sovereignty, deal or no deal. “No deal was thus far closer to Britain’s preferred outcome than to the EU’s which, paradoxically, made agreement easier.” READ MORE: Farage celebrates Brexit as he warns ‘beginning of the end for EU’
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Boris Johnson announced the details of his Brexit trade deal
Mr Hannan is set to take his seat in the House of Lords despite being a fierce critic of the upper house in recent years. He has in the past said the institution represents “everything that is wrong with the administration of Britain”. MPs are set to vote on Mr Johnson’s deal in a special sitting in the House of Commons on Wednesday. Lawmakers will be briefly recalled from their Christmas break to debate over and vote on the free trade deal. DON'T MISS
Brexit fury as EU judges' orders will be enforceable in UK [ANALYSIS]
Gibraltar: PM warned visas ‘unacceptable’ in post-Brexit agreement [INSIGHT]
Michel Barnier in 'hilarious meltdown' during Brexit deal row [EXPLAINED]
Fishing bosses have lashed out at the deal
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen
Ahead of the crunch vote, the European Research Group (ERG) has convened a self-styled "star chamber" of lawyers led by veteran Eurosceptic MP Sir Bill Cash to examine the full text of the deal. Senior Conservative backbencher Sir Bill said "sovereignty is the key issue" as his team analysed the small print of the accord. There were indications senior Brexit hardliners were preparing to support the deal, despite being angered by the little time they have to debate it.
Brexit: ‘No pressure’ for Joe Biden to strike trade deal says expert
No 10's chief negotiator Lord Frost hailed the deal as beginning a "moment of national renewal" that he argued means the UK "sets its own laws again" by ensuring there is "no more role" for the ECJ. But fishing bosses across the UK are up in arms over the terms of Mr Johnson’s deal. Fishing for Leave called it a “pretty dismal deal” which fails to protect the longsuffering industry.
The EU's chief Brexit envoy Michel Barnier


thedailyexpress--2020-12-28--SNP dealt crushing Scottish independence hammer blow as Scots benefit from £1.5k in UK

The extra £1,500 per person in public spending this year is due to the UK Government ’ s record Barnett consequential spending .
Analysis of the spending by the Scottish Conservatives and Express.co.uk shows £8.2 billion will be added to the Scottish budget in response to tackling COVID-19 , protecting jobs and supporting local firms .
This spending , the Scottish Tories say , also contributed to health and social care help in Scotland , including public health initiatives and welfare support .
The latest figures show that Scotland ’ s population in June 2019 was 5,463,300 .
When divided @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it shows the UK Government is providing £1,501 for every man , woman and child in Scotland to tackle COVID-19 this year .
It comes as Nicola Sturgeon preached her desire for a second independence referendum in Holyrood this week based on the fact the UK could be heading for a no-deal Brexit as trade talks come down to the wire .
Speaking during FMQs last week , she said : “ The only reason , right now , we are faced with the prospect of a no-deal Brexit in Scotland is because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been foisted upon us against our will .
`` Independence is not the same as Brexit , independence would see Scotland joining other independent countries in the European Union , working together where we need to - including on matters like COVID and charting our own future.
” At the same time , the Treasury has announced a further £800 million in coronavirus funding to be shared among the devolved administrations .
Chief Secretary to the Treasury Stephen Barclay said this week the funding would be split into £400 million for the Scottish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government and £200 million for the Northern Ireland Executive .
READ MORE : SNP rumbled after splashing out £4 million a year on civil servant pay Dean Lockhart MSP , Scottish Conservative Constitution spokesperson , said : “ The UK Government has given unprecedented support for people and local firms during the coronavirus outbreak , showing how vital Scotland ’ s place within the United Kingdom is for our public services .
“ Even before this crisis , the UK government had delivered the highest ever Scottish Budget and since then , an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help fight this pandemic .
“ In contrast , the SNP have failed to protect Scottish jobs in the face of the Covid pandemic .
“ They ’ ve left far too many local firms to fend for themselves.
” DO N'T MISS : Meddling SNP intervenes in Brexit talks as Sturgeon pledges position [ REVEAL ] Nicola Sturgeon HUMILIATED as FM rebuked for THIRD time over stats [ LATEST ] Meddling Nicola Sturgeon demands Brexit extension after border chaos [ INSIGHT ] More than 79,000 businesses in Scotland have also benefited @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than £2.9billion and 930,000 jobs have been supported under the Furlough scheme .
Pamela Nash , chief executive of Scotland in Union , said the figures highlight the importance of Scotland being part of the UK .
She told Express.co.uk : “ This support for Scotland ’ s fight against COVID-19 comes from being part of the UK .
“ The broad shoulders of the UK are helping every nation and region during these difficult times .
“ But it will take years for the economy and public services to recover , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rebuilding our country together and the SNP should drop its obsession with a divisive second independence referendum.
” Scottish Secretary Alistair Jack , added : `` The UK Government is committed to supporting people in all parts of the UK during this difficult time which is why today we have given £400 million extra to the Scottish Government for their COVID-19 response .
`` This is on top of direct UK Government COVID-19 support to people and businesses in Scotland , including the furlough and self-employment schemes , business loans , VAT cuts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in our Plan for Jobs and our welfare safety net . ''
In response , Alison Thewliss MP , the SNP 's Shadow Chancellor told Express.co.uk : “ The Tories are insulting the intelligence of taxpayers across Scotland , who funded these measures through our taxes and public borrowing .
`` Instead of shamelessly claiming credit at our expense , the Tories should answer for the millions of people they have left behind , including public sector workers hit with a Tory pay freeze , the three million excluded who have been left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of unemployed people , as UK redundancies hit record levels .
”

IndyRef2: Alister Jack tells SNP MP to ‘respect democracy’
The extra £1,500 per person in public spending this year is due to the UK Government’s record Barnett consequential spending. Analysis of the spending by the Scottish Conservatives and Express.co.uk shows £8.2 billion will be added to the Scottish budget in response to tackling COVID-19, protecting jobs and supporting local firms.
Trending
This spending, the Scottish Tories say, also contributed to health and social care help in Scotland, including public health initiatives and welfare support. The latest figures show that Scotland’s population in June 2019 was 5,463,300. When divided by £8.2billion in guaranteed Barnett consequential, it shows the UK Government is providing £1,501 for every man, woman and child in Scotland to tackle COVID-19 this year. It comes as Nicola Sturgeon preached her desire for a second independence referendum in Holyrood this week based on the fact the UK could be heading for a no-deal Brexit as trade talks come down to the wire.
An analysis has been published by the Scottish Tories
The SNP dispute the Scottish Tory findings however
Speaking during FMQs last week, she said: “The only reason, right now, we are faced with the prospect of a no-deal Brexit in Scotland is because we are not independent and it has been foisted upon us against our will. "Independence is not the same as Brexit, independence would see Scotland joining other independent countries in the European Union, working together where we need to - including on matters like COVID and charting our own future.” At the same time, the Treasury has announced a further £800 million in coronavirus funding to be shared among the devolved administrations. Chief Secretary to the Treasury Stephen Barclay said this week the funding would be split into £400 million for the Scottish Government, £200 million for the Welsh Government and £200 million for the Northern Ireland Executive. READ MORE: SNP rumbled after splashing out £4 million a year on civil servant pay
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Mr Jack says the financial help from Westminster has been a 'lifeline' to many Scottish people
Dean Lockhart MSP, Scottish Conservative Constitution spokesperson, said: “The UK Government has given unprecedented support for people and local firms during the coronavirus outbreak, showing how vital Scotland’s place within the United Kingdom is for our public services. “Even before this crisis, the UK government had delivered the highest ever Scottish Budget and since then, an extra £1,500 has been spent per person to help fight this pandemic. “In contrast, the SNP have failed to protect Scottish jobs in the face of the Covid pandemic. “They’ve left far too many local firms to fend for themselves.” DON'T MISS:
Meddling SNP intervenes in Brexit talks as Sturgeon pledges position [REVEAL]
Nicola Sturgeon HUMILIATED as FM rebuked for THIRD time over stats [LATEST]
Meddling Nicola Sturgeon demands Brexit extension after border chaos [INSIGHT]
The new funding has been announced by the Treasury
More than 79,000 businesses in Scotland have also benefited from UK Government loan schemes, worth more than £2.9billion and 930,000 jobs have been supported under the Furlough scheme. Pamela Nash, chief executive of Scotland in Union, said the figures highlight the importance of Scotland being part of the UK. She told Express.co.uk: “This support for Scotland’s fight against COVID-19 comes from being part of the UK. “The broad shoulders of the UK are helping every nation and region during these difficult times.
Dean Lockhart stressed the importance of the Union


thedailyexpress--2020-12-27--Leo Varadkar launches desperate bid to lure British businesses to Ireland post Brexit

Despite the UK and EU signing a landmark trade agreement , Mr Varadkar claimed Ireland provides an essential route to the European market .
The deputy Prime Minister of the country also claimed once the travel restrictions are lifted , there will be few travel rules for British and Irish citizens .
He also claimed Ireland is set for a prosperous future in terms of investment due to Brexit .
He told Newstalk : `` They still will be able to travel freely to Britain and live , work and study there .
`` Other Europeans wo n't but that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because of the Irish protocol and common travel area .
`` British people will still be able to come here .
`` In some ways we will have certain advantages in Ireland when we are looking for investment , we can say that if you set up your factory or your tech company in Ireland you will have access to the European market , but also the European labour market which is really important too .
`` There will be duty free when we can start flying again between Britain and Ireland .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Martin , welcomed the news of the trade deal between the UK and EU .
Although a trade deal has been agreed between the two sides , Parliament will be recalled on December 30 to vote on the agreement .
MPs had begun their Christmas recess but will now return to the Commons in order to pass the deal into law .
JUST IN : Brexit LIVE : UK fishermen tear apart Boris Johnson 's 'disaster ' deal The Government hopes to agree the deal in Parliament and the House of Lords in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assent before the turn of the year .
It is thought the Liberal Democrats will not support the deal while some Labour MPs may go against the party 's stance .
Sir Keir Starmer has insisted he will instruct Labour MPs to vote for the deal despite being a critic of the agreement .
The SNP has announced it will not support the agreement when it returns to Parliament this week .
DO N'T MISS Let it go !
Desperate Remainers to hold 12-hour vigil to mourn Brexit [ Latest ] New Zealand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ red tape [ Update ] Nigel Farage warns of concessions in deal which will anger Brexiteers [ Insight ] The leader of the party in Westminster , Ian Blackford said : `` Boris Johnson ’ s extreme Tory Brexit is an unforgivable act of economic vandalism and gross stupidity , which will cause lasting damage to the economy and leave the UK much worse off at the worst possible time – during a pandemic and economic recession .
“ Scotland has been completely ignored by Westminster throughout the Brexit process and we are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` It is clear that the only way to protect Scotland ’ s interests , and regain the full benefits of EU membership , is to become an independent country .
`` This is a very bad deal for Scotland , which will terminate our membership of the EU , rip us out of the world ’ s largest single market and customs union , end our freedom of movement rights , and impose mountains of red tape , added costs and barriers to trade for Scottish businesses .
`` The blame @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Brexit: Ian Blackford grilled over SNP's stance on trade deal
Despite the UK and EU signing a landmark trade agreement, Mr Varadkar claimed Ireland provides an essential route to the European market. The deputy Prime Minister of the country also claimed once the travel restrictions are lifted, there will be few travel rules for British and Irish citizens. He also claimed Ireland is set for a prosperous future in terms of investment due to Brexit.
Trending
He told Newstalk: "They still will be able to travel freely to Britain and live, work and study there. "Other Europeans won't but that's a special arrangement that we have because of the Irish protocol and common travel area. "British people will still be able to come here. "In some ways we will have certain advantages in Ireland when we are looking for investment, we can say that if you set up your factory or your tech company in Ireland you will have access to the European market, but also the European labour market which is really important too.
Brexit news: Leo Varadkar in bid to lure businesses to Ireland
Brexit news: Boris Johnson
"There will be duty free when we can start flying again between Britain and Ireland." His comments come as Taoiseach Micheal Martin, welcomed the news of the trade deal between the UK and EU. Although a trade deal has been agreed between the two sides, Parliament will be recalled on December 30 to vote on the agreement. MPs had begun their Christmas recess but will now return to the Commons in order to pass the deal into law. JUST IN: Brexit LIVE: UK fishermen tear apart Boris Johnson's 'disaster' deal
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Brexit news: Leo Varadkar
The Government hopes to agree the deal in Parliament and the House of Lords in order for it to be given royal assent before the turn of the year. It is thought the Liberal Democrats will not support the deal while some Labour MPs may go against the party's stance. Sir Keir Starmer has insisted he will instruct Labour MPs to vote for the deal despite being a critic of the agreement. The SNP has announced it will not support the agreement when it returns to Parliament this week. DON'T MISS
Let it go! Desperate Remainers to hold 12-hour vigil to mourn Brexit [Latest]
New Zealand farmers will have to go through LESS red tape [Update]
Nigel Farage warns of concessions in deal which will anger Brexiteers [Insight]
Brexit news: Mr Varadkar stated the positives of Ireland for businesses
The leader of the party in Westminster, Ian Blackford said: "Boris Johnson’s extreme Tory Brexit is an unforgivable act of economic vandalism and gross stupidity, which will cause lasting damage to the economy and leave the UK much worse off at the worst possible time – during a pandemic and economic recession. “Scotland has been completely ignored by Westminster throughout the Brexit process and we are being forced to pay a devastating price. "It is clear that the only way to protect Scotland’s interests, and regain the full benefits of EU membership, is to become an independent country.
Brexit timeline
"This is a very bad deal for Scotland, which will terminate our membership of the EU, rip us out of the world’s largest single market and customs union, end our freedom of movement rights, and impose mountains of red tape, added costs and barriers to trade for Scottish businesses. "The blame lies squarely with the Tory Government.
Brexit news: Leo Varadkar and Boris Johnson


thedailyexpress--2020-12-27--Verhofstadt MOCKED for anti-Brexit dig as Boris launches 'superior' Turing programme

Although the UK and EU finally agreed on a Brexit deal , the MEP could not resist a final taunt aimed towards Britain .
Boris Johnson announced the UK will not continue its participation in the European Erasmus programme .
Instead , the UK will launch its own £100million Turing scheme aimed at providing support for thousands of students from September 2021 .
Despite the bumper new scheme launched by the UK Government , the Irish government has announced it will support Northern Irish students wanting to participate in the Erasmus+ scheme .
Mr Verhofstadt said in response to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government for keeping the Erasmus programme alive for young people in Northern Ireland . ''
However , many were quick to defend the new Turing scheme despite Mr Vehrofstadt 's claim .
One person said : `` The Turing Scheme is superior in every way , funding far more British places , with more and vastly better universities and helping poorer young people . ''
Another said : `` No EU university is in the top 20 worldwide . ''
A third said : `` How much is that going to cost the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people ? ''
A fourth said : `` The Turing scheme means the world is their oyster , not just Europe .
JUST IN : Let it go !
Desperate Remainers to hold 12-hour vigil to mourn Brexit The Turing programme will look to help 35,000 students in universities , colleges and schools to go on placements abroad .
It will also target students from disadvantaged backgrounds and areas which did not benefit from the Erasmus+ scheme .
Education Secretary , Gavin Williamson said : `` We now have the chance to expand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ students from all backgrounds benefit from the experience .
`` We have designed a truly international scheme which is focused on our priorities , delivers real value for money and forms an important part of our promise to level up the United Kingdom .
Brexit LIVE : UK fishermen tear apart Boris Johnson 's 'disaster ' deal [ Live blog ] Nigel Farage warns of concessions in deal which will anger Brexiteers [ Update ] SNP to vote AGAINST Boris ’ Brexit deal as Blackford brands agreement ... [ Latest ] '' These @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our employers , as well as strengthening our ties with partners across the world . ''
Under an arrangement with the Irish government , Northern Irish universities will remain part of the Erasmus scheme .

Brexit: Fishing chief hits out at 'disappointing' trade deal
Although the UK and EU finally agreed on a Brexit deal, the MEP could not resist a final taunt aimed towards Britain. Boris Johnson announced the UK will not continue its participation in the European Erasmus programme. Instead, the UK will launch its own £100million Turing scheme aimed at providing support for thousands of students from September 2021.
Trending
Despite the bumper new scheme launched by the UK Government, the Irish government has announced it will support Northern Irish students wanting to participate in the Erasmus+ scheme. Mr Verhofstadt said in response to the news: "Praise for the Irish Government for keeping the Erasmus programme alive for young people in Northern Ireland." However, many were quick to defend the new Turing scheme despite Mr Vehrofstadt's claim. One person said: "The Turing Scheme is superior in every way, funding far more British places, with more and vastly better universities and helping poorer young people."
Brexit news: The MEP was mocked
Brexit news: The MEP praised the Irish government
Another said: "No EU university is in the top 20 worldwide." A third said: "How much is that going to cost the Irish at the expense of their young people?" A fourth said: "The Turing scheme means the world is their oyster, not just Europe. "Besides European universities are crap." JUST IN: Let it go! Desperate Remainers to hold 12-hour vigil to mourn Brexit
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Brexit news: Boris Johnson
The Turing programme will look to help 35,000 students in universities, colleges and schools to go on placements abroad. It will also target students from disadvantaged backgrounds and areas which did not benefit from the Erasmus+ scheme. Education Secretary, Gavin Williamson said: "We now have the chance to expand opportunities to study abroad and see more students from all backgrounds benefit from the experience. "We have designed a truly international scheme which is focused on our priorities, delivers real value for money and forms an important part of our promise to level up the United Kingdom. DON'T MISS Brexit LIVE: UK fishermen tear apart Boris Johnson's 'disaster' deal [Live blog]
Nigel Farage warns of concessions in deal which will anger Brexiteers [Update]
SNP to vote AGAINST Boris’ Brexit deal as Blackford brands agreement... [Latest]
Brexit news: Guy Verhofstadt
"These opportunities will benefit both our students and our employers, as well as strengthening our ties with partners across the world." Under an arrangement with the Irish government, Northern Irish universities will remain part of the Erasmus scheme.
Brexit timeline
The scheme will cost the government £1.9million a year in order to help students journey to European countries. Approximately 649 students and staff from Northern Ireland participated in the scheme last year.
Brexit news: The Prime Minister announced the deal


thedailyexpress--2020-12-27--Let it go! Desperate Remainers to hold 12-hour vigil to mourn Brexit

The anti-Brexit group called “ New Europeans ” has announced plans to mark the end of the freedom of movement @ @ @ @ @ and the EU as new laws come into force at 11pm on December 31 .
@ @ @ @ @ from pro-EU supporters will be live-streamed on social media from 11am-11pm on New Year ’ @ @ @ @ @ website , the group is described as a “ civil rights organisation which champions freedom @ @ @ @ @ the principle of solidarity in Europe ” .
In a statement to promote the event @ @ @ @ @ end of freedom of movement to having a favourite Christmas gift taken away .
Participants @ @ @ @ @ sign a so-called declaration of solidarity between people in the UK and people in the @ @ @ @ @ Casale , Executive Director , New Europeans , said : `` The road will still @ @ @ @ @

Boris Johnson: Brexit deal is ‘glad tidings of great joy’
The anti-Brexit group called “New Europeans” has announced plans to mark the end of the freedom of movement of people between the UK and the EU as new laws come into force at 11pm on December 31. A virtual event featuring testimonies from pro-EU supporters will be live-streamed on social media from 11am-11pm on New Year’s Eve.
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On its website, the group is described as a “civil rights organisation which champions freedom of movement, non-discrimination and the principle of solidarity in Europe”. In a statement to promote the event, the group compares the end of freedom of movement to having a favourite Christmas gift taken away. Participants will have the opportunity to sign a so-called declaration of solidarity between people in the UK and people in the rest of Europe. Roger Casale, Executive Director, New Europeans, said: "The road will still be long and winding.
Pro-EU flags outside Parliament Square in London
Remainers held protests in London in 2019
“In the end it may well lead back to the door of the EU." He added: “We have invited people from all over Europe to share their memories and tell their stories. “In a show of solidarity we ask people to look beyond politics at the human lives that have been touched in so many positive ways as a result of freedom of movement and the overcoming of borders." Britain will take back control of its borders from the EU by using a points-based immigration system.
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Boris Johnson celebrates news of a trade deal
Millions of EU citizens have already registered to stay in the UK through the European settlement scheme, with successful applicants granted the right to continue living and working in the UK indefinitely. Others who have lived continuously in the country for five years can obtain settled status. Meanwhile, EU nationals with less than five years' residence in the UK can apply for pre-settled status, which can later be converted into settled status. From January 1, UK citizens can travel and stay in the EU for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, but may need a visa to stay for longer. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: Labour MPs plot to defy Sir Keir and vote against deal
A pro-EU supporter holds a banner in the capital
The Brexit roadmap was finally completed on Christmas Eve after the UK and the EU agreed a landmark trade deal. The historic agreement allows the flow of goods and services between the UK and Europe – worth £660billion. Britain officially left the EU in January following the passing of the Brexit withdrawal agreement, but remained tied to EU rules throughout the 11-month transition period. Prime Minister Boris Johnson hailed the trade deal as a "new beginning" for Britain. DON'T MISS Britons furious as Brexit blockers plot to vote down deal [INSIGHT]
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A timeline of key Brexit dates


thedailyexpress--2020-12-27--Furious UK fisheries chief exposes huge flaw in Boris' deal - 'Very close to status quo!'

The fishing agreement within Boris Johnson 's landmark Brexit trade deal was a `` lost opportunity , '' according to the National Federation of Fishermen 's Organisations ( NFFO ) .
The NFFO 's Chief Executive Barrie Deas told BBC News there was `` a lot of frustration and disappointment right across the British fishing industry '' .
He said the EU `` played hardball '' and won out in the talks , with the deal `` very , very close to the status quo '' .
In a fiery rant against Mr Johnson 's deal , Mr Deas said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very high priority in the negotiations .
`` It 's clear now that the EU played hardball .
Our reference point is that under international law a coastal state has the right to harvest its resources within its waters .
`` That is absolutely what we have not secured in these negotiations .
The quota shares that have been agreed are very , very close to the status quo .
`` On a practical level , in the fisheries that are of particular concern to us , there has been next to no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sturgeon MOCKED after attacking Boris Johnson 's fishing deal

Brexit: Fishing chief hits out at 'disappointing' trade deal
The fishing agreement within Boris Johnson's landmark Brexit trade deal was a "lost opportunity," according to the National Federation of Fishermen's Organisations (NFFO). The NFFO's Chief Executive Barrie Deas told BBC News there was "a lot of frustration and disappointment right across the British fishing industry". He said the EU "played hardball" and won out in the talks, with the deal "very, very close to the status quo".
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In a fiery rant against Mr Johnson's deal, Mr Deas said: "Fishing had been given a very high priority in the negotiations. "It's clear now that the EU played hardball. Our reference point is that under international law a coastal state has the right to harvest its resources within its waters. "That is absolutely what we have not secured in these negotiations. The quota shares that have been agreed are very, very close to the status quo. "On a practical level, in the fisheries that are of particular concern to us, there has been next to no movement." JUST IN: Nicola Sturgeon MOCKED after attacking Boris Johnson's fishing deal
The fishing agreement within Boris Johnson's landmark Brexit trade deal was a 'lost opportunity'
The UK's fishing catch will go up from a half to two-thirds in about five years time
The BBC News host responded by pointing out that the UK's fishing catch will go up from a half to two-thirds in about five years time. However, Mr Deas hit back: "If you look at particular fish stock, take the Channel cod, where the UK had 9 percent quotas. "Eastern Channel cod didn't move at all, and western Channel cod moved from 9 percent to 10.2 percent. "We should have half of those quotas, 50 percent. We are miles away from what we would consider a fair and balanced share."
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Brexit: Bridgen slams Keir Starmer's position on trade deal
Deas said that the fishing industry has been sacrificed in the Brexit trade deal
On Saturday, Mr Deas claimed his industry had been betrayed in order to win a wider deal


thedailyexpress--2020-12-27--EU chaos: Merkel breaks with von der Leyen's vaccination rollout plan amid German fury

Frustration with Brussels ' boiled over this weekend after the EU 's long-awaited coordinated vaccine rollout to fight COVID-19 erupted into chaos .
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had claimed the mass vaccination plan to start on Sunday was a `` touching moment of unity '' .
However , Germany , Hungary and Slovakia all jumped the gun by starting their vaccination rollout 24 hours earlier .
This comes amid increasing frustration at the slow pace of the EU 's vaccine rollout , which is trailing behind the majority of its Western allies , including the UK .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ began their vaccination programmes with the German-developed Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine earlier this month .
Ms von der Leyen previously lauded the coordination as tweeted on Saturday : `` Today , we start turning the page on a difficult year .
`` The COVID-19 vaccine has been delivered to all EU countries .
Vaccination will begin tomorrow across the EU . ''
However , health workers in north-east Germany jumped ahead of Brussels and started immunising elderly residents of a nursing home in Halberstadt on Saturday .
Tobias Krueger , the operator of a nursing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that we wait is one day too many.
” Similarly , in Hungary , the first recipient of the vaccine was a doctor at Del-Pest Central Hospital on Saturday .
The authorities in Slovakia also said they had begun vaccinating , as the three member states disrupted Brussels ' plans for a co-ordinated rollout .
There has been anger at the EU 's handling of the crisis , with an editorial in Germany 's weekly Der Spiegel noting : `` In Berlin and at EU headquarters in Brussels , too little action was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was often justified with complacent arguments .
`` If the situation stays as it is now , there will not be enough vaccine available to get the pandemic under control in Germany before autumn.
” The EU has so far reported more than 335,000 Covid-related deaths , with more than 14 million people infected .
Labour humiliated : Brexiteers mock Starmer for backing Boris ' deal [ VIDEO ] POLL : Should schools reopen in January despite new Covid-19 strain ?
[ POLL ] Brexit LIVE : Labour MPs plot to defy Sir @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BLOG ] There is also concern that the EU may run out of vaccine supplies , after trailing behind Britain and the US in vaccine orders

Vaccine: First jabs rolled out in Germany, Slovakia and Hungary
Frustration with Brussels' boiled over this weekend after the EU's long-awaited coordinated vaccine rollout to fight COVID-19 erupted into chaos. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had claimed the mass vaccination plan to start on Sunday was a "touching moment of unity". However, Germany, Hungary and Slovakia all jumped the gun by starting their vaccination rollout 24 hours earlier.
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This comes amid increasing frustration at the slow pace of the EU's vaccine rollout, which is trailing behind the majority of its Western allies, including the UK. The UK, US and Canada all began their vaccination programmes with the German-developed Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine earlier this month. Ms von der Leyen previously lauded the coordination as tweeted on Saturday: "Today, we start turning the page on a difficult year. "The COVID-19 vaccine has been delivered to all EU countries. Vaccination will begin tomorrow across the EU." JUST IN: Germany's Covid vaccine rollout PAUSED potential failures detected
The EU's co-ordinated vaccine rollout to fight COVID-19 was botched
Health workers in north-east Germany decided not to wait for Sunday
However, health workers in north-east Germany jumped ahead of Brussels and started immunising elderly residents of a nursing home in Halberstadt on Saturday. Tobias Krueger, the operator of a nursing home, said: “Every day that we wait is one day too many.” Similarly, in Hungary, the first recipient of the vaccine was a doctor at Del-Pest Central Hospital on Saturday. The authorities in Slovakia also said they had begun vaccinating, as the three member states disrupted Brussels' plans for a co-ordinated rollout.
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Joe Biden: President-elect receives Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine
Germany, Hungary and Slovakia all jumped the gun by starting their vaccination roll-out 24 hours earlier on Saturday
There has been anger at the EU's handling of the crisis, with an editorial in Germany's weekly Der Spiegel noting: "In Berlin and at EU headquarters in Brussels, too little action was taken for too long, and it was often justified with complacent arguments. "If the situation stays as it is now, there will not be enough vaccine available to get the pandemic under control in Germany before autumn.” The EU has so far reported more than 335,000 Covid-related deaths, with more than 14 million people infected. DON'T MISS: Labour humiliated: Brexiteers mock Starmer for backing Boris' deal [VIDEO]
POLL: Should schools reopen in January despite new Covid-19 strain? [POLL]
Brexit LIVE: Labour MPs plot to defy Sir Keir and vote against deal [LIVE BLOG]
There is also concern that the EU may run out of vaccine supplies, after trailing behind Britain and the US in vaccine orders


thedailyexpress--2020-12-27--Keir Starmer branded 'a joke' over Brexit deal 'more positions than Kama Sutra!'

Andrew Bridgen ruthlessly mocked Sir Keir Starmer after the Labour leader announced he will whip the party to support the Brexit deal .
Mr Bridgen ridiculed Sir Keir for whipping his party in favour of the landmark trade deal before he even read it .
The Labour leader called for his party 's MPs to vote for Boris Johnson ’ s deal , saying it was a “ binary choice ” between the deal on offer or no deal .
Speaking out about Sir Keir 's decision , Mr Bridgen joked : `` Sir Keir Starmer 's had more positions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' He told LBC : `` I predicted , as soon as the deal was done , that Labour would whip to support it .
`` I find it a bit of a joke actually that he was announcing that 'we are going to whip for support ' and he 'd never even read the deal .
`` He could n't possibly have read the deal in the two hours between the deal being announced and his decision . ''
JUST IN : New Zealand farmers will have to go through LESS red @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We are taking back control , it makes a bit of a mockery of Parliament when you say you 're going to vote for something when you 've not even read it .
`` Labour just wants the Brexit issue gone because people knew if you wanted to get Brexit , they voted Conservative , which they did . ''
The Tory MP also lauded the achievements of the European Research Group in the Conservative Party for its role in Brexit , arguing that it is `` probably the most successful lobby group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ himself has criticised the deal for being `` too thin '' , claiming that it would not protect workers ’ rights or sectors such as manufacturing and the creative industries .
However , he added on Thursday : `` When this deal comes before Parliament , Labour will accept it , and vote for it . ''
Sir Keir is facing a revolt among his own frontbenchers over his decision to back the Brexit deal , with several shadow ministers poised to resign .
Labour MPs had urged him to abstain in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to hold the Government to account over the deal 's impact if Labour supported it .
Ed Davey branded 'sour ' in brutal backlash after denouncing deal [ VIDEO ] Brexit LIVE : Labour MPs plot to defy Sir Keir and vote against deal [ LIVE BLOG ] Britons split on whether Tier 4 rules should be imposed on England [ POLL ]

Brexit: Bridgen slams Keir Starmer's position on trade deal
Andrew Bridgen ruthlessly mocked Sir Keir Starmer after the Labour leader announced he will whip the party to support the Brexit deal. Mr Bridgen ridiculed Sir Keir for whipping his party in favour of the landmark trade deal before he even read it. The Labour leader called for his party's MPs to vote for Boris Johnson’s deal, saying it was a “binary choice” between the deal on offer or no deal.
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Speaking out about Sir Keir's decision, Mr Bridgen joked: "Sir Keir Starmer's had more positions on Brexit than the Kama Sutra." He told LBC: "I predicted, as soon as the deal was done, that Labour would whip to support it. "I find it a bit of a joke actually that he was announcing that 'we are going to whip for support' and he'd never even read the deal. "He couldn't possibly have read the deal in the two hours between the deal being announced and his decision." JUST IN: New Zealand farmers will have to go through LESS red tape
The Labour leader declared he will whip the party to support the Brexit deal
The Tory MP also lauded the achievements of the European Research Group
The leading Eurosceptic added: "We are taking back control, it makes a bit of a mockery of Parliament when you say you're going to vote for something when you've not even read it. "Labour just wants the Brexit issue gone because people knew if you wanted to get Brexit, they voted Conservative, which they did." The Tory MP also lauded the achievements of the European Research Group in the Conservative Party for its role in Brexit, arguing that it is "probably the most successful lobby group" in modern history. Sir Keir himself has criticised the deal for being "too thin", claiming that it would not protect workers’ rights or sectors such as manufacturing and the creative industries.
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Brexit: SNP's Mike Russell slams Johnson's deal with EU
Sir Keir is facing a revolt among his own frontbenchers over his decision to back the government’s Brexit trade deal
On Christmas Eve it was announced that the UK and EU had struck an agreement


thedailyexpress--2020-12-27--SNP to vote AGAINST Boris’ Brexit deal as Blackford brands agreement 'unforgivable act'

Ian Blackford , the SNP ’ s leader in Westminster , said the deal represented an “ extreme Tory Brexit ” and would have a long-term impact on the economy .
He said the deal would have disastrous consequences for Scotland .
Mr Blackford said : `` Boris Johnson 's extreme Tory Brexit is an unforgivable act of economic vandalism and gross stupidity , which will cause lasting damage to the economy and leave the UK much worse off at the worst possible time - during a pandemic and economic recession . ''
Stressing the SNP 's frequently-used argument for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's voice would not be heard in Westminster .
He added : `` With the Labour Party lining up behind Boris Johnson , it is clear Westminster will impose this hard Tory Brexit regardless of how Scotland votes , but it is not being done in our name .
`` It is a disaster for Scotland . ''
SNP MP Neil Gray tweeted : `` Along with @ theSNP colleagues I will vote against Boris Johnson ’ s awful Brexit deal on Wednesday .
`` And we are absolutely clear why : it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Scotland didn ’ t vote for it . ''
Scotland voted to remain in the EU during the 2016 referendum with 62 percent of voters ( 1.66m ) wanting to stay in the bloc , while 38 percent - 1.02m - voted to leave .
The SNP posted a message on Twitter saying : `` Scotland ’ s future should be in Scotland ’ s hands , not those of Boris Johnson . ''
READ MORE : Britons furious as Brexit blockers plot to vote down deal MPs will be called back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sitting to debate over and vote on the deal .
The session , which will come during the lawmakers ' Christmas break , will kick off at 9.30am .
People were quick to weigh in on the debate on social media , with many accusing the SNP of performing a political stunt on the matter .
One person said the party were “ showboating ” and would not vote against the deal if it risked a no-deal Brexit .
The person said : “ They can do this secure in the knowledge that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ certainly wouldn ’ t vote against if they thought it risked a default no deal .
Pure showboating.
” But a second person went as far as to say the SNP had secretly hoped for a no-deal Brexit as it would add fuel to their independence campaign .

Brexit: SNP's Mike Russell slams Johnson's deal with EU
Ian Blackford, the SNP’s leader in Westminster, said the deal represented an “extreme Tory Brexit” and would have a long-term impact on the economy. He said the deal would have disastrous consequences for Scotland.
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Mr Blackford said: "Boris Johnson's extreme Tory Brexit is an unforgivable act of economic vandalism and gross stupidity, which will cause lasting damage to the economy and leave the UK much worse off at the worst possible time - during a pandemic and economic recession." Stressing the SNP's frequently-used argument for Scottish independence, he claimed the Scotland's voice would not be heard in Westminster. He added: "With the Labour Party lining up behind Boris Johnson, it is clear Westminster will impose this hard Tory Brexit regardless of how Scotland votes, but it is not being done in our name. "It is a disaster for Scotland."
The SNP in Westminster will vote against the trade deal
Nicola Sturgeon's party will vote against the Brexit deal
SNP MP Neil Gray tweeted: "Along with @theSNP colleagues I will vote against Boris Johnson’s awful Brexit deal on Wednesday. "And we are absolutely clear why: it’s a bad deal for Scotland and Scotland didn’t vote for it." Scotland voted to remain in the EU during the 2016 referendum with 62 percent of voters (1.66m) wanting to stay in the bloc, while 38 percent - 1.02m - voted to leave. The SNP posted a message on Twitter saying: "Scotland’s future should be in Scotland’s hands, not those of Boris Johnson." READ MORE:Britons furious as Brexit blockers plot to vote down deal
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Ian Blackford hit out at the PM's deal
Ian Blackford, the SNP's leader in Westminster
Boris Johnson announced details of his deal on Christmas Eve
MPs will be called back to Parliament on Wednesday for a special sitting to debate over and vote on the deal. The session, which will come during the lawmakers' Christmas break, will kick off at 9.30am. People were quick to weigh in on the debate on social media, with many accusing the SNP of performing a political stunt on the matter. One person said the party were “showboating” and would not vote against the deal if it risked a no-deal Brexit.
Sturgeon slammed for independence 'obsession' by Alister Jack
The person said: “They can do this secure in the knowledge that it will pass regardless. “They certainly wouldn’t vote against if they thought it risked a default no deal. Pure showboating.” But a second person went as far as to say the SNP had secretly hoped for a no-deal Brexit as it would add fuel to their independence campaign.
The Prime Minister said the deal would protect jobs in the UK