thedailyexpress--2020-12-15--Andrew Neil dismisses project fear 'We're a GREAT Britain whether we're in or out'

The political journalist said Britain will face bigger challenges without a Brexit deal but will still be `` great '' .
Speaking to ITV 's This Morning , Andrew Neil said : `` I think we 're a great Britain whether we 're in or out .
I do n't that changes either way .
`` I think if we 're out without a deal there are bigger challenges .
`` We will face higher tariffs with the EU , it will take a long while to pivot our economy away from Europe to the faster-growing Pacific region or to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the things the Government has told us almost nothing about , I think partly because it 's knackered because of Covid and these Brexit negotiations .
`` What is this vision for Britain in the 2020s , what are we going to do now with our new found sovreignty that we could n't have done before ?
READ MORE : Barnier says UK trying to 'renationalise ' fishing industry '' Where are we going to invest our natural resources ?
`` Which will be our success stories in the 2020s ?
Of that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I think the Eurozone is in some serious decline but I do n't think Britain 's future is guaranteed until we have an idea of where we 're going for the rest of the decade . ''
Mr Neil also suggested `` 98 percent '' of the Brexit trade deal is ready to be signed as he insisted the Government would be senseless to throw away the opportunity of securing an agreement with the EU over the undecided 2 percent .
His comments come as Conservative Party grandee William Hague has warned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not Britain leaves Europe with a Brexit deal , the real test of the Prime Minister and the Government will come in what happens next .
As talks on an exit agreement continue , Lord Hague said Mr Johnson has turned in a strong performance in convincing the EU 's Ursula von der Leyen he is `` crazy enough to cause a lot of damage '' by leaving without a deal `` rather than settle for a poor outcome '' .
But he said while no-deal would be `` disastrous for Britain and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how the talks conclude the greatest challenge for Britain under its new-found freedom will be `` whether we know what to do with it '' .
Writing in The Daily Telegraph , Lord Hague said many Britons were harbouring misconceptions about what Brexit will mean .
Furious Brexit row erupts as UK warned EU 'wants to make example of us [ INSIGHT ] Nicola Sturgeon warned 'Spain could keep Scotland out of EU ' [ ANALYSIS ] EU caved when VDL 'looked into Boris 's eyes and saw he was serious ' [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the future of Britain would lie in lower taxes .
The pandemic has put an end to any ideas of that , '' he wrote .
A massive reduction in business deregulation - `` the paranoid fear of some European governments '' - was also not going to happen while Britain was `` already busy setting out more demanding environmental targets than our competitors '' , he said .
And while others will have seen free trade as the `` guiding principle of our future '' , the trade deals the Government is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ similar to those of many other countries '' .
Lord Hague said Brexit would be an anti-climax if Britain `` muddled along '' with occasional small tax rises and regulation amendments and a few free trade deals `` while all the time fighting a rearguard action to stop Scottish nationalists pulling the country to pieces '' .
The former Tory leader called for a `` new national purpose '' to be set out by the Government , fuelled by ensuring `` the brightest people from home and abroad want to live and work @ @ @

Brexit: Andrew Neil says we will remain ‘Great Britain'
The political journalist said Britain will face bigger challenges without a Brexit deal but will still be "great". Speaking to ITV's This Morning, Andrew Neil said: "I think we're a great Britain whether we're in or out. I don't that changes either way.
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"I think if we're out without a deal there are bigger challenges. "We will face higher tariffs with the EU, it will take a long while to pivot our economy away from Europe to the faster-growing Pacific region or to the United States. "One of the things the Government has told us almost nothing about, I think partly because it's knackered because of Covid and these Brexit negotiations. "What is this vision for Britain in the 2020s, what are we going to do now with our new found sovreignty that we couldn't have done before? READ MORE: Barnier says UK trying to 'renationalise' fishing industry
Andrew Neil has dismissed project fear claims as he insited Britain will be great
The political journalist said Britain will face bigger challenges without a Brexit deal
"Where are we going to invest our natural resources? "Which will be our success stories in the 2020s? Of that, we've heard almost nothing. "I think the Eurozone is in some serious decline but I don't think Britain's future is guaranteed until we have an idea of where we're going for the rest of the decade." Mr Neil also suggested "98 percent" of the Brexit trade deal is ready to be signed as he insisted the Government would be senseless to throw away the opportunity of securing an agreement with the EU over the undecided 2 percent.
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Jeremy Vine: Brexit ‘won’t be done’ by deadline says expert
His comments come as Conservative Party grandee William Hague has warned Boris Johnson that regardless of whether or not Britain leaves Europe with a Brexit deal, the real test of the Prime Minister and the Government will come in what happens next. As talks on an exit agreement continue, Lord Hague said Mr Johnson has turned in a strong performance in convincing the EU's Ursula von der Leyen he is "crazy enough to cause a lot of damage" by leaving without a deal "rather than settle for a poor outcome". But he said while no-deal would be "disastrous for Britain and much of Europe", regardless of how the talks conclude the greatest challenge for Britain under its new-found freedom will be "whether we know what to do with it". Writing in The Daily Telegraph, Lord Hague said many Britons were harbouring misconceptions about what Brexit will mean. DON'T MISS Furious Brexit row erupts as UK warned EU 'wants to make example of us [INSIGHT]
Nicola Sturgeon warned 'Spain could keep Scotland out of EU' [ANALYSIS]
EU caved when VDL 'looked into Boris's eyes and saw he was serious' [VIDEO]
Brexit timeline


thedailyexpress--2020-12-15--Barnier rings EU alarm bell on UK fishing masterplan - Spain and Netherlands face disaster

The Brussels diplomat said this would hit Dutch and Spanish firms that own fishing boats – known as flag ships @ @ @ @ @ hardest .
In a series of private Brussels briefings yesterday , he described this as @ @ @ @ @ points to finding a deal on post-Brexit fishing rights .
Mr Barnier told MEPs that @ @ @ @ @ had tabled demands surmounting to the “ expropriation ” of foreign-owned fishing boats .
According @ @ @ @ @ the meeting , he said : “ There are other conditions that they wanted to @ @ @ @ @ for those two countries.
” Britain is said to be seeking ownership rules for boats @ @ @ @ @ must be domestic .
The rows over a post-Brexit fishing agreement and the so-called “ @ @ @ @ @ holding up progress in the EU-UK trade talks .
Mr Barnier believes an overall deal @ @ @ @ @ if both sides can reach an agreement on fisheries .
But Downing Street officials have @ @ @ @ @ of positive briefings emerging out of Brussels .

Brexit: Boris Johnson ‘battling for Britain’ says Barclay
The Brussels diplomat said this would hit Dutch and Spanish firms that own fishing boats – known as flag ships – in the UK the hardest. In a series of private Brussels briefings yesterday, he described this as one of the key sticking points to finding a deal on post-Brexit fishing rights. Mr Barnier told MEPs that UK Brexit envoy Lord Frost had tabled demands surmounting to the “expropriation” of foreign-owned fishing boats.
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According to a source familiar with the meeting, he said: “There are other conditions that they wanted to impose that are very difficult for those two countries.” Britain is said to be seeking ownership rules for boats that mean the majority stakeholder must be domestic. The rows over a post-Brexit fishing agreement and the so-called “level playing field” are holding up progress in the EU-UK trade talks. Mr Barnier believes an overall deal could be struck this week if both sides can reach an agreement on fisheries. But Downing Street officials have hit back against a wave of positive briefings emerging out of Brussels.
Michel Barnier has accused the UK of wanting to 'renationalise' its fishing industry
Michel Barnier yesterday briefed MEPs and EU27 ambassadors on the Brexit talks
Hopes of a deal had been rising in recent days after the Prime Minister and Ms von der Leyen scrapped a make-or-break deadline set for last Sunday to conclude the talks. But tensions were rising again yesterday after the EU demanded the power to punish the UK with restrictions on British firms, including car manufacturers, in retaliation for any move to block European fishing fleets from UK coastal waters. Mr Barnier briefing EU ambassadors that some "limited progress" had been made over the weekend.
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Boris Johnson has promised a good deal for Britain's coastal communities
A diplomatic source said: "No one asked anything about no-deal and that was informed by the tone of Mr Barnier's briefing. "He was a little less gloomy than I was expecting. "If both sides can come out of their trenches on fish, Barnier said there could be a deal this week." MUST READ: Pound euro exchange rate 'bounces' amid Brexit negotiations
David Frost and Michel Barnier continue their negotiations
Mr Barnier also told ambassadors the Prime Minister had made concessions over regulatory standards and now needed to "build the architecture" on the issue. A senior Government source accused the EU of briefing "inaccurate" accounts of the latest developments. The source said: "Talks remain difficult and we have not made significant progress in recent days, despite efforts by the UK to bring energy and ideas to the process. "Like any sovereign country, we must have the right to take our own decisions and to choose regulations that suit the UK. DON'T MISS
Sky's Kate McCann explains Boris HAS done Brexit deal with EU [VIDEO]
Brexit LIVE: Major part of deal COLLAPSES - EU hits outs [UPDATES]
French fishermen prepare for 'warlike' no deal Brexit as tensions boil [REVEALED]
Brexit: Andrew Bridgen suggests possible fishing compromise


thedailyexpress--2020-12-15--BBC ordered to abolish TV licence fee as it 'fails to offer unbiased' coverage

The leader of the SDP , William Clouston , has insisted that the BBC 's TV licence fee charge is @ @ @ @ @ He suggested that the broadcaster should monetise past programmes and slim down its `` bloated @ @ @ @ @ went on to claim the BBC is failing to offer unbiased news coverage .
Speaking @ @ @ @ @ the BBC , Mr Clouston said : `` The first line is to get rid @ @ @ @ @ I think is a complete anachronism .
`` There 's no need to charge people @ @ @ @ @ service .
`` We need to get rid of that .
The BBC can , @ @ @ @ @ by Government directly , I think , and also by making more of its own @ @ @ @ @ monetise past programmes .
Broadly the BBC is vastly bloated and it needs slimming down @ @ @ @ @ Free TV licence can still be claimed by Britons - are you eligible ?

BBC is 'failing to be an unbiased broadcaster' says expert
The leader of the SDP, William Clouston, has insisted that the BBC's TV licence fee charge is "complete anachronism". He suggested that the broadcaster should monetise past programmes and slim down its "bloated" company. Mr Clouston went on to claim the BBC is failing to offer unbiased news coverage.
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Speaking to Calvin Robinson from Defund the BBC, Mr Clouston said: "The first line is to get rid of the licence fee which I think is a complete anachronism. "There's no need to charge people a flat tax for this service. "We need to get rid of that. The BBC can, will and should be funded by Government directly, I think, and also by making more of its own subscriptions. "They can monetise past programmes. Broadly the BBC is vastly bloated and it needs slimming down." READ MORE: Free TV licence can still be claimed by Britons - are you eligible?
The BBC has been ordered to abolish its licence fee by the leader of the SDP
William Clouston has insisted that the BBC's TV licence fee charge is "complete anachronism"
Mr Clouston continued: "The first thing is to abolish the licence fee. "The issue over impartiality is the key problem. We looked into this in great detail, we think that we should have a royal commission to properly examine its bias. "We included Channel 4 in that which is also a publicly funded broadcaster because both organisations are failing to offer what their charters say they should offer which is to be politically unbiased. "They're obviously failing at that."
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BBC are ‘chasing the elderly for licence fee’ says campaigner
He suggested that the broadcaster should monetise past programmes and slim down its "bloated" staff


thedailyexpress--2020-12-15--Brexit LIVE: Major part of deal COLLAPSES - EU says UK talks 'like climbing Himalayas'

A member of the EU Parliament 's UK coordination group , Nathalie Loiseau , said : `` We are far from an agreement .
`` Nothing is impossible to a willing heart , but it ’ s like climbing the Himalaya from the northern side.
” Throughout talks , officials have expressed their concern over losing access to the valuable student exchange programme .
Education and business leaders had stated the loss of the programme would remove £243million a year in income and cause an estimated 17,000 students to miss out on studying abroad .
In particular , students from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as they would be unable to fund their travel and expenses without the programme .
Overall , the project receives £420million from EU students who study in the UK - after subtracting membership costs it drops to £243million .
Joe Fitzsimons , the head of education and skills policy at the Institute of Directors , said : “ Many employers deeply value the kind of international experience the Erasmus scheme helps foster .
`` Given the benefits it can bring students and businesses , maintaining access to Erasmus and wider EU research and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the IoD from the off.
” On Monday , Mr Barnier held talks with EU ambassadors to brief them on the current state of affairs before negotiations with Lord Forst reconvened .
Although gaps still remain , he indicated the UK had backtracked on its demands thus sparking hope a deal could be agreed .
A UK source later denied that , saying : `` The inaccurate briefings from the EU side in recent days have made a difficult discussion even more challenging in the short period of time we have left.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ progress this week during negotiations , Ireland 's Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said today .
He told RTE : `` I think what we 're seeing this week , having had a number of stalls in this process , is slow , but at the same time some , progress .
`` My understanding is we 're making some progress in that area the level playing field .
`` I think you can take it that because negotiating teams have gone really quiet here , that 's an indication to me that there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I 'm still hopeful that can result in a successful outcome agreement . ''
1.19pm update : Leaving without a deal most likely During a Cabinet meeting , the Prime Minister stated leaving without a deal remains the most likely outcome from talks .
Although he stated negotiations will continue , gaps still remain between the two sides .
The Prime Minister 's spokesman said : `` The Prime Minister opened Cabinet with an update on the ongoing negotiations with the EU .
`` He re-emphasised the desire to reach a free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cost - and reiterated that any agreement must respect the independence and sovereignty of the UK .
`` The Prime Minister made clear that not being able to reach an agreement and ending the transition period on Australian-style terms remained the most likely outcome but committed to continuing to negotiate on the remaining areas of disagreement . ''
12.48pm update : PM 's officials warn Brexit trade talks still 'difficult ' despite claims deal is close Boris Johnson 's officials yesterday warned that Brexit trade talks are still `` difficult '' despite claims @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier has told European ambassadors that agreement on future relations between the UK and bloc could be reached this week after progress over the weekend .
But tensions were rising again yesterday after the EU demanded the power to punish the UK with restrictions on British firms , including car manufacturers , in retaliation for any move to block European fishing fleets from UK coastal waters .
A senior Government source accused the EU of briefing  “ inaccurate ” accounts of the latest developments .
The source @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we have not made significant progress in recent days , despite efforts by the UK to bring energy and ideas to the process .
“ Like any sovereign country we must have the right to take our own decisions and to choose regulations that suit the UK .
“ We can not sign up to dynamic alignment through the back door .
The UK can not be locked into the EU ’ s regulatory orbit . ''
Commenting on a piece by former BBC man , Andrew Neil , the former Brexit Party @ @ @ @ @ @ @ liberal democracy '' .
He added : `` The EU is not a liberal democracy ; it does not practice market economics ; and it only applies its laws when it suits it .
`` Worrying you would think as you do . ''
11.38am update : Try your worst , Michel !
Fishing chief says UK in control even if EU forces through no deal A fishing chief has backed Boris Johnson 's Brexit approach , claiming the UK would thrive even in a no-deal Brexit .
Mike Park , chief executive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Association , said the fishing industry was not concerned about a no-deal Brexit .
I Mr Park admitted the Association would prefer an agreement on fisheries within a wider trade deal under a framework agreement but said the UK would remain in control even under no deal .
The fishing boss said : `` In terms of the larger vessels that benefit from greater shares of regulated stocks , we would immediately move into coastal state negotiations where hopefully we could negotiate greater shares of those stocks on the basis that we give @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so there 's no change in terms of what it means for the sector that fishes your cod , your haddock and other stocks .
`` In terms of these larger vessels , we have no concerns because we think we can seek a good deal through the avenue which is the international norm where you sit down and negotiate with your neighbours in terms of who gets access to where and what they can catch so we think .
`` In that aspect , a no-deal is no worse than getting a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' 10.54am update : Brexit deal could be struck within days A diplomat from the EU stated a deal could be struck although any deal could fall throw at the last minute .
They said : `` Patient still alive but keep the undertaker on speed dial.
” Both Michel Barnier and Ursula von der Leyen had stated talks have progressed to the final stages .
A spokesman for the UK said : `` The PM ’ s words that no-deal remains the most likely outcome stand.
” 10.22am update : Widdecombe rages @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warns of `` massive Brexit trade deal fudge '' Boris Johnson has been issued a stern warning by Brexiteer Ann Widdecombe who insisted the Prime Minister has `` no excuse '' to not see Brexit through .
The former Brexit Party MEP insisted that Britons are counting on Boris Johnson to deliver Brexit on December 31 after negotiations were extended on the weekend .
Speaking on Farage LIVE , Ann Widdecombe said : `` People do forgive him .
I think part of that is due to his opposition being so appalling weak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is weak well , Keir Starmer is hardly there at all .
`` Part of it is that but the other part is people desperately want to believe in Boris .
`` They think he 's the real thing .
He 's very different from previous Prime Ministers .
`` They want to believe in Boris .
I used to believe in Boris and I really hoped that he would see this through when he got his majority of 80 after all , he 's got no excuse not to see it through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chaos as Dutch warn 'many will go bankrupt ' without UK waters Brexit has caused concern in the Netherlands as its fishermen warn many will go bankrupt if the country can no longer fish in UK waters .
A no deal Brexit could cause disruption for fishermen on both sides of the English Channel , but Dutch fishermen have previously expressed concern over the long term impacts of the UK 's departure .
Dutch skipper Cor Vonk said in 2019 that `` many will go bankrupt '' in the Netherlands if access to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` It 's really a disaster for the fishermen , as 50 percent of their turnover is caught in British waters .
So for the Dutch fishermen it 's really a tragedy if the British waters are closed .
`` We 're talking about 500 to 600 families left in the drink .
Many fishermen will go bankrupt , and perhaps us too . ''
The Prime Minister will travel to India in January 2021 in order to boost trade ties with the country .
it will be his first bilateral visit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year where the UK will hold the G7 and UN climate change summits .
Mr Johnson said : `` I am absolutely delighted to be visiting India next year at the start of an exciting year for Global Britain , and look forward to delivering the quantum leap in our bilateral relationship that Prime Minister Modi and I have pledged to achieve .
`` As a key player in the Indo-Pacific region , India is an increasingly indispensable partner for the United Kingdom as we work to boost jobs and growth , confront @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our planet . ''
Secretary to the Treasury , Stephen Barclay has claimed the EU must change its position if a deal is to be reached .
He told Sky News : `` The discussions are ongoing .
The fundamentals remain the same .
`` It is in both sides ' interest to have a deal .
That is what the Prime Minister has committed to .
`` The Prime Minister is battling for Britain .
And whether there is a deal is not simply down to the actions of the Prime Minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to respond . ''
7.47am update : French fishermen vow to blockade Channel as no deal Brexit could spark `` warlike '' scenes French fishermen have threatened to blockade Dover and Calais if there is a no deal Brexit - warning it could spark `` warlike '' scenes in the English Channel .
Trawlermen warned they would disrupt the flow of ferries carrying vital goods in response to being shut out of Britain ’ s fishing grounds .
A union baron said Britain ’ s threat to send gunboats to police the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that we are negotiating things that relate to war ” .
Downing Street is still claiming a no deal Brexit is the “ most likely ” outcome for the trade talks .
Dimitri Rogoff , president of Normandy 's regional fisheries committee , claimed the move would see Dutch , Belgian and German ships flocking into French waters .
He said : “ If we are deprived of our fishing grounds , we will not watch the British supply the French market .
`` There will therefore be blockages to ferries , since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on that , we are quite clear and determined . ''
7.19am update : `` Negotiating with the UK like trying to climb the Himalayas '' The areas of divergence remain between the two sides but now talks have failed to reach an agreement on the valuable Erasmus+ programme .
The project generates £243million a year for the UK and allows an estimated 17,000 students to continue their education abroad .
On Monday , Mr Barnier concluded the two sides were unable to come to an agreement on the programme .
Following the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Loiseau and member of European Parliament ’ s UK coordination group said : `` We are far from an agreement .
`` There are indeed other points than the level playing field , governance and fisheries which remain to be solved .
`` Nothing is impossible to a willing heart , but it ’ s like climbing the Himalaya from the northern side .
”

Brexit: Andrew Bridgen suggests possible fishing compromise
The news of a possible breakthrough of the months-long deadlock came in the last hour. The BBC's political editor Nicholas Watt tweeted: "Big buzz in the last hour among Tory MPs that the UK is heading towards a Brexit deal with the EU. Eurosceptics being reassured they will be happy." Mr Watt added: "Nothing confirmed yet and MPs saying: many a slip between cup and lip. But MPs being told the signal will come if and when Jacob Rees-Mogg announces that the commons will sit on Monday and Tuesday next week. That would come before any UK / EU announcement."
He also tweeted: "Interesting to see an informal cabinet push to reassure veteran Brexiteers. "They are being told their concerns have been addressed. "Key issue is over the level playing field a mechanism in which EU and UK would observe common rules but in a way that would respect sovereignty."
The UK is heading towards a deal with the EU a BBC correspondent has said
This news comes after reports the two sides in negotiations have failed to agree to substantial elements of a deal this week, sparking anger in Brussels. As it stands, the issues of fair competition, fisheries and governance still remain the main areas of divergence between Michel Barnier and Lord David Frost. However, other substantial elements within the deal, such as the Erasmus+ exchange programme have caused talks to stall. Such is the chaos over the matter, one MEP compared negotiating with the UK to "climbing the Himalayas". A member of the EU Parliament's UK coordination group, Nathalie Loiseau, said: "We are far from an agreement. "Nothing is impossible to a willing heart, but it’s like climbing the Himalaya from the northern side.” Throughout talks, officials have expressed their concern over losing access to the valuable student exchange programme. Education and business leaders had stated the loss of the programme would remove £243million a year in income and cause an estimated 17,000 students to miss out on studying abroad. In particular, students from less affluent backgrounds would be worst hit as they would be unable to fund their travel and expenses without the programme.
Brexit live: EU hits out at UK officials
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Overall, the project receives £420million from EU students who study in the UK - after subtracting membership costs it drops to £243million. Joe Fitzsimons, the head of education and skills policy at the Institute of Directors, said: “Many employers deeply value the kind of international experience the Erasmus scheme helps foster. "Given the benefits it can bring students and businesses, maintaining access to Erasmus and wider EU research and education partnerships has been a priority for the IoD from the off.” On Monday, Mr Barnier held talks with EU ambassadors to brief them on the current state of affairs before negotiations with Lord Forst reconvened. Although gaps still remain, he indicated the UK had backtracked on its demands thus sparking hope a deal could be agreed. A UK source later denied that, saying: "The inaccurate briefings from the EU side in recent days have made a difficult discussion even more challenging in the short period of time we have left.” FOLLOW BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES:
There could be a build up of lorries on roads towards the UK's ports
9.20 pm update: The UK has made plans to rival Singapore with a new post-Brexit shipping 'tonnage tax' regime The UK wants London to rival for Singapore as a hub for shipping companies to register their vessels. The Government hopes to reforms the shipping industry’s so-called “tonnage tax” after January 1 2021. Changing the UK’s shipping tax and regulation regime could be worth £3.7bn to the economy over three years. It could also create 2,500 high-quality jobs directly, and 25,000 in related companies.
Boris Johnson is hoping to deregulate shipping in the UK
8.30 pm update: Robert Peston hints at 'preparation for no deal' as MPs face extra Commons sittings MPs are preparing for the prospect of having to work between Christmas and the New Year as a result of a possible no-deal Brexit, ITV's Robert Peston has said. Lawmakers were this week told to expect extra Commons sittings over the festive period in order for a Brexit trade deal to be passed. But Mr Peston said the additional sittings could be used to conduct last-minute preparations for a hard Brexit. 6.50 pm update: A post-Brexit tax regulation bill has just been approved by the House Commons. Pro-Brexit MPs raised concerns about UK sovereignty after the end of the transition period, this led to MP's voting for a 'Post-Transition Period' tax bill. The new Bill will introduce framework for customs duty charges on goods being imported into Northern Ireland from Great Britain. It also sets out customs duties on goods arriving in Great Britain from Northern Ireland. 6.20 pm update: A German minister said a no deal Brexit risks hundreds of jobs in the country's fishing industry. Germany's fishing industry stands to suffer an almighty blow if the UK and the EU cannot agree to a free trade deal before the end of the Brexit transition period, a German minister has admitted. 6.00 pm update: ‘No reason to be excited’ about progress in today's Brexit negotiations. Earlier today it was suggested that negotiations had taken a step forward. However, a source close to the UK negotiators said: “The position is the same, talks remain very difficult.” The Downing Street source added: “We're not close on this stuff yet. There's a lot of outstanding details to go through, on other areas too, so there's genuinely no reason to be excited about things today." 5.12 pm update: The news of a deal with the EU has been dismissed as "total rubbish" by Downing Street, according to the Daily Mirror Political Editor. Pippa Crerar Daily Mirror Political Editor tweeted: "Somebody at No 10 told me it's "total rubbish" but then I guess they would, wouldn't they?" Sky News Europe Correspondent Adam Parsons tweeted: "I know Westminster is apparently talking about an imminent deal but I haven't heard anyone say that among Brussels diplomats." 5.05 pm update: EU hauliers warn they will cancel bookings to the UK after December 31. The hauliers from the EU said they would ditch their orders destined for the UK because of the fear of queues of trucks miles long at the border. One of Europe’s largest truck firms, Girteka Logistics, warned it could turn away deliveries to the UK if Brexit triggers chaos at the border. 4.55 pm update: The pound rockets as Boris Johnson secures huge Brexit breakthrough with EU. The pound has jumped on the back of reports that a trade deal between the UK and the EU is imminent. A tweet from Nicholas Watt suggested there was a “big buzz” among Conservative MPs about a possible deal on Tuesday afternoon caused the pound to rise. 4.45 pm update: The BBC's Nicholas Watt has also claimed that Brexiteers want a decent amount of time to examine the treaty bill. He tweeted: "Brexiteers say they would need decent amount of time to examine the treaty bill - legislation to enact any UK / EU deal. They need to examine it in the round and in minute detail. They want to see it by Thursday - and no later than Friday - if commons to consider it Monday and Tuesday." 4.40 pm update: A new park for haulage is being built to take the pressure off Kent's roads post-Brexit. The new lorry park will not be fully operational when the transition period ends on 1 January. The government has blamed wet weather for work falling behind schedule. 4.30 pm update: Italian Prime Minister Conte 'cannot accept' Brexit deal without level playing field Italy's prime minister has said he will not accept a trade deal with the UK "without level playing field conditions. The leaders of the bloc’s 27 member states remain united in their stance to secure a strong deal with Britain. But he said Brussels would not sign any agreement which does not include common rules and standards designed to prevent business on either side from undercutting firms.
3.45 pm update: The UK has signed a £5bn trade deal with Mexico. The deal is seen as a "stepping stone" to huge 11-nation trading pact. The deal will also be seen as a major boost to Boris Johnson's plans for when the UK has fully cut ties with Brussels. 3.15 pm update: Member of House of Lords urges Boris Johnson to consider the devasting impact of a no-deal on the UK's services industry. The member of the House of Lords said the “EU is frankly irreplaceable” in terms of the sector’s trade. Nicholas Le Poer Trench said on Tuesday that “services are 80 percent of our GDP and our services trade with Europe makes up 51 percent of our services exports. “As it stands, Europe is a hugely important market for services. The most important.” 2.26pm update: 'France throwing toys out the pram!' Boris Johnson urged to STOP negotiating with Barnier Boris Johnson has been urged to walk away from Brexit negotiations after Michel Barnier introduced a punishment clause which could see Britain slapped with trade sanctions if EU fisherman are banned from UK waters. During a series of private Brussels briefings, the Frenchman accused Downing Street of ‘backtracking’ on its own proposals for a three-year transition period for fishing rights. While addressing MEPs, Mr Barnier said Britain would have to face a potential punishment clause with “consequences” for any future decisions to close its fishing grounds to EU vessels. The Frenchman suggested economic sanctions – such as trade tariffs – could be introduced to counter any such moves by Downing Street. But Britons have lashed out at Mr Barnier’s proposed plans with many calling for the Prime Minister to end negotiations now. One reader said: “So Joker Barnier expects the UK to agree to be penalised by the EU unless we guarantee FREE access rights now and in the future. “What does Barnier not understand about taking back full control and regaining our UK sovereignty?” A second reader said: “So basically he wants to punish us for controlling our own waters under International law. “This is not the EU negotiating, this is France throwing its toys out the pram. “We should refuse to deal with Barnier."
Hardest hit countries from a no deal Brexit
1.52pm update: Negotiations making slow progress - Simon Coveney UK and EU officials have made slow progress this week during negotiations, Ireland's Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said today. He told RTE: "I think what we're seeing this week, having had a number of stalls in this process, is slow, but at the same time some, progress. "My understanding is we're making some progress in that area the level playing field. "I think you can take it that because negotiating teams have gone really quiet here, that's an indication to me that there is a serious if difficult negotiation continuing. I'm still hopeful that can result in a successful outcome agreement." 1.19pm update: Leaving without a deal most likely During a Cabinet meeting, the Prime Minister stated leaving without a deal remains the most likely outcome from talks. Although he stated negotiations will continue, gaps still remain between the two sides. The Prime Minister's spokesman said: "The Prime Minister opened Cabinet with an update on the ongoing negotiations with the EU. "He re-emphasised the desire to reach a free trade agreement - but not at any cost - and reiterated that any agreement must respect the independence and sovereignty of the UK. "The Prime Minister made clear that not being able to reach an agreement and ending the transition period on Australian-style terms remained the most likely outcome but committed to continuing to negotiate on the remaining areas of disagreement."
12.48pm update: PM's officials warn Brexit trade talks still 'difficult' despite claims deal is close Boris Johnson's officials yesterday warned that Brexit trade talks are still "difficult" despite claims from Brussels that a deal is close. EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier has told European ambassadors that agreement on future relations between the UK and bloc could be reached this week after progress over the weekend. But tensions were rising again yesterday after the EU demanded the power to punish the UK with restrictions on British firms, including car manufacturers, in retaliation for any move to block European fishing fleets from UK coastal waters. A senior Government source accused the EU of briefing “inaccurate” accounts of the latest developments. The source said: “Talks remain difficult and we have not made significant progress in recent days, despite efforts by the UK to bring energy and ideas to the process. “Like any sovereign country we must have the right to take our own decisions and to choose regulations that suit the UK. “We can not sign up to dynamic alignment through the back door. The UK cannot be locked into the EU’s regulatory orbit." 11.48am update: Ben Habib hits out at EU Commenting on a piece by former BBC man, Andrew Neil, the former Brexit Party insisted the EU is "not a liberal democracy". He added: "The EU is not a liberal democracy; it does not practice market economics; and it only applies its laws when it suits it. "Worrying you would think as you do."
EU losses from hard Brexit
11.38am update: Try your worst, Michel! Fishing chief says UK in control even if EU forces through no deal A fishing chief has backed Boris Johnson's Brexit approach, claiming the UK would thrive even in a no-deal Brexit. Mike Park, chief executive of the Scottish White Fish Producers' Association, said the fishing industry was not concerned about a no-deal Brexit. I Mr Park admitted the Association would prefer an agreement on fisheries within a wider trade deal under a framework agreement but said the UK would remain in control even under no deal. The fishing boss said: "In terms of the larger vessels that benefit from greater shares of regulated stocks, we would immediately move into coastal state negotiations where hopefully we could negotiate greater shares of those stocks on the basis that we give other people access to the water, so there's no change in terms of what it means for the sector that fishes your cod, your haddock and other stocks. "In terms of these larger vessels, we have no concerns because we think we can seek a good deal through the avenue which is the international norm where you sit down and negotiate with your neighbours in terms of who gets access to where and what they can catch so we think. "In that aspect, a no-deal is no worse than getting a deal through a fisheries framework agreement."
Brexit news: Michel Barnier briefed ambassadors on Monday
10.54am update: Brexit deal could be struck within days A diplomat from the EU stated a deal could be struck although any deal could fall throw at the last minute. They said: "Patient still alive but keep the undertaker on speed dial.” Both Michel Barnier and Ursula von der Leyen had stated talks have progressed to the final stages. A spokesman for the UK said: "The PM’s words that no-deal remains the most likely outcome stand.” 10.22am update: Widdecombe rages at Boris's no deal bluff and warns of "massive Brexit trade deal fudge" Boris Johnson has been issued a stern warning by Brexiteer Ann Widdecombe who insisted the Prime Minister has "no excuse" to not see Brexit through. The former Brexit Party MEP insisted that Britons are counting on Boris Johnson to deliver Brexit on December 31 after negotiations were extended on the weekend. Speaking on Farage LIVE, Ann Widdecombe said: "People do forgive him. I think part of that is due to his opposition being so appalling weak. "If people think that Boris is weak well, Keir Starmer is hardly there at all. "Part of it is that but the other part is people desperately want to believe in Boris. "They think he's the real thing. He's very different from previous Prime Ministers. "They want to believe in Boris. I used to believe in Boris and I really hoped that he would see this through when he got his majority of 80 after all, he's got no excuse not to see it through."
Brexit: Ann Widdecombe criticises Boris Johnson’s negotiations
9.38am update: Brexit fisheries chaos as Dutch warn 'many will go bankrupt' without UK waters Brexit has caused concern in the Netherlands as its fishermen warn many will go bankrupt if the country can no longer fish in UK waters. A no deal Brexit could cause disruption for fishermen on both sides of the English Channel, but Dutch fishermen have previously expressed concern over the long term impacts of the UK's departure. Dutch skipper Cor Vonk said in 2019 that "many will go bankrupt" in the Netherlands if access to UK waters is ended. He said: "It's really a disaster for the fishermen, as 50 percent of their turnover is caught in British waters. So for the Dutch fishermen it's really a tragedy if the British waters are closed. "We're talking about 500 to 600 families left in the drink. Many fishermen will go bankrupt, and perhaps us too." 8.47am update: Boris Johnson to launch post-Brexit trade drive The Prime Minister will travel to India in January 2021 in order to boost trade ties with the country. it will be his first bilateral visit since taking office and will mark a year where the UK will hold the G7 and UN climate change summits. Mr Johnson said: "I am absolutely delighted to be visiting India next year at the start of an exciting year for Global Britain, and look forward to delivering the quantum leap in our bilateral relationship that Prime Minister Modi and I have pledged to achieve. "As a key player in the Indo-Pacific region, India is an increasingly indispensable partner for the United Kingdom as we work to boost jobs and growth, confront shared threats to our security and protect our planet."
Brexit endgame
8.31am update: EU must move! Secretary to the Treasury, Stephen Barclay has claimed the EU must change its position if a deal is to be reached. He told Sky News: "The discussions are ongoing. The fundamentals remain the same. "It is in both sides' interest to have a deal. That is what the Prime Minister has committed to. "The Prime Minister is battling for Britain. And whether there is a deal is not simply down to the actions of the Prime Minister, it needs the EU to move to respond." 7.47am update: French fishermen vow to blockade Channel as no deal Brexit could spark "warlike" scenes French fishermen have threatened to blockade Dover and Calais if there is a no deal Brexit - warning it could spark "warlike" scenes in the English Channel. Trawlermen warned they would disrupt the flow of ferries carrying vital goods in response to being shut out of Britain’s fishing grounds. A union baron said Britain’s threat to send gunboats to police the UK’s coastal waters “would mean that we are negotiating things that relate to war”. Downing Street is still claiming a no deal Brexit is the “most likely” outcome for the trade talks. Dimitri Rogoff, president of Normandy's regional fisheries committee, claimed the move would see Dutch, Belgian and German ships flocking into French waters. He said: “If we are deprived of our fishing grounds, we will not watch the British supply the French market. "There will therefore be blockages to ferries, since this mainly happens by ferries. And on that, we are quite clear and determined."
Brexit news: Fisheries
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-12-15--'France throwing toys out the pram!' Boris Johnson urged to STOP negotiating with Barnier

During a series of private Brussels briefings , the Frenchman accused Downing Street of ‘ backtracking ’ on its own @ @ @ @ @ period for fishing rights .
While addressing MEPs , Mr Barnier said Britain would have @ @ @ @ @ clause with “ consequences ” for any future decisions to close its fishing grounds to @ @ @ @ @ suggested economic sanctions – such as trade tariffs – could be introduced to counter any @ @ @ @ @ .
But Britons have lashed out at Mr Barnier ’ s proposed plans with many @ @ @ @ @ to end negotiations now .
One reader said : “ So Joker Barnier expects the @ @ @ @ @ penalised by the EU unless we guarantee FREE access rights now and in the future @

Brexit: EU ‘acting like mafia’ over fishing says columnist
During a series of private Brussels briefings, the Frenchman accused Downing Street of ‘backtracking’ on its own proposals for a three-year transition period for fishing rights.
Trending
While addressing MEPs, Mr Barnier said Britain would have to face a potential punishment clause with “consequences” for any future decisions to close its fishing grounds to EU vessels. The Frenchman suggested economic sanctions – such as trade tariffs – could be introduced to counter any such moves by Downing Street. But Britons have lashed out at Mr Barnier’s proposed plans with many calling for the Prime Minister to end negotiations now. One reader said: “So Joker Barnier expects the UK to agree to be penalised by the EU unless we guarantee FREE access rights now and in the future.
Boris urged to STOP negotiating with Barnier
Boris urged to walk away from Brexit talks
“What does Barnier not understand about taking back full control and regaining our UK sovereignty?” A second reader said: “So basically he wants to punish us for controlling our own waters under International law. “This is not the EU negotiating, this is France throwing its toys out the pram. “We should refuse to deal with Barnier. READ MORE: Brexit row: German MEP warned Merkel and EU 'won't have their way'
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EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier
Brexit endgame timeline
“You cannot deal with people like these.” Someone else added how the EU had “rejected every compromise” the Uk has suggested during negotiations. They said: “The Frenchman accused Downing Street of ‘backtracking’ on its own proposals for a three-year transition period for fishing rights. “The EU had already rejected every compromise we suggested.”
Boris urged to walk away from Brexit talks
While a fifth reader simply said: “For God’s sake Boris… End this farce now….” With less than 30 days until the end of the transition period on December 31, both sides are scrambling to come to an agreement. Mr Barnier told a meeting of EU27 ambassadors a Brexit trade agreement could emerge this week if both sides can overcome their differences. But he told colleagues he was prepared for talks to run right up to the deadline.
UK Brexit negotiator David Frost


thedailyexpress--2020-12-16--EU 'cowards' are running scared of Global Britain in Brexit talks -'Put them to the test!'

Mark Littlewood , CEO of the Institute for the Economic Affairs think tank , said the EU instead needed to accept and even embrace the prospect of competition on its doorstep - stressing it was time for the bloc to be `` put to the test '' .
Mr Littlewood was speaking at a time when the prospect of a trade deal hangs in the balance , with EU requirements for so-called `` level playing field '' rules aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the single market is central to the debate .
Mr Littlewood told Express.co.uk : `` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be about competition any more - it seems to be about uniformity .
`` The important thing is to keep out absolutely everything which does not exactly accord with every last comma of EU regulations .
`` Now the EU is entirely entitled to have its own regulations but they seem to want to exclude products and services into their market for their citizens which are identikit versions of the EU-regulated products .
`` And that to my mind does not speak of confidence , it speaks of a lack of confidence and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` When the UK has opened itself up to the world in terms of global trade , obviously there will be standards imposed .
`` But we have to accept into our markets products that are not regulated in exactly the same way and on the same basis as UK products .
READ MORE : Global Britain ALREADY attracting skilled workers from around world '' American products that come to our market are not regulated by UK agencies . ''
After Brexit , the UK would be able to adopt a more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that a product had been signed off by for example a US , or a German , or an EU agency , it was good enough for the domestic market , Mr Littlewood suggested .
He added : `` And I think the EU should take the same view .
DO N'T MISS UK hit back at ‘ illegal ’ Icelandic claim on fishing waters in Cod War [ INSIGHT ] EU assumed Norway would join ‘ two to five years after it voted no ’ [ EXCLUSIVE ] EU fishing disaster : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fishing [ REVEALED ] '' However , unfortunately the single market over the last couple of decades has moved away from being something that removes barriers to trade and has moved on to insisting that absolutely all participants must behave in exactly the same way and under the exactly the same regulations and the same policing requirements .
`` And it does seem to be that their fear is that Britain on the outside could produce cheaper products , better products , higher-quality products .
`` And they would prefer that we were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` If their regulatory regime is so awesome and immaculate they should have nothing to fear but it should be put to the test in an open market . ''
Mr Littlewood 's remarks echo those of former Brexit Party MEP Ann Widdecombe , who last week told Express.co.uk : `` I 've said this before - what they are really worried about is getting a Singapore on their doorstep .
`` If you think back to John Major 's time when we had an opt-out from the social chapter , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of all the imports from Japan and the United States .
`` The EU has not got a short memory - it will remember exactly that . ''
Miss Widdecombe added : `` This country is an economic powerhouse .

Brexit: EU adviser talks about 'damaging' the single market
Mark Littlewood, CEO of the Institute for the Economic Affairs think tank, said the EU instead needed to accept and even embrace the prospect of competition on its doorstep - stressing it was time for the bloc to be "put to the test". Mr Littlewood was speaking at a time when the prospect of a trade deal hangs in the balance, with EU requirements for so-called "level playing field" rules aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the single market is central to the debate.
Trending
Mr Littlewood told Express.co.uk: "The single market doesn't really seem to be about competition any more - it seems to be about uniformity. "The important thing is to keep out absolutely everything which does not exactly accord with every last comma of EU regulations. "Now the EU is entirely entitled to have its own regulations but they seem to want to exclude products and services into their market for their citizens which are identikit versions of the EU-regulated products.
Boris Johnson is yet to secure a deal with the EU
Boris Johnson has said no deal is most likely
It speaks of a lack of confidence and even cowardice Mark Littlewood
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"And that to my mind does not speak of confidence, it speaks of a lack of confidence and even cowardice". Mr Littlewood added: "When the UK has opened itself up to the world in terms of global trade, obviously there will be standards imposed. "But we have to accept into our markets products that are not regulated in exactly the same way and on the same basis as UK products. READ MORE: Global Britain ALREADY attracting skilled workers from around world
Michel Barnier is meeting with Lord Frost this week to try to secure a deal
Five key moments that led to Brexit
"However, unfortunately the single market over the last couple of decades has moved away from being something that removes barriers to trade and has moved on to insisting that absolutely all participants must behave in exactly the same way and under the exactly the same regulations and the same policing requirements. "And it does seem to be that their fear is that Britain on the outside could produce cheaper products, better products, higher-quality products. "And they would prefer that we were therefore fully encapsulated by their regulatory regime. "If their regulatory regime is so awesome and immaculate they should have nothing to fear but it should be put to the test in an open market."
Ann Widdecombe explained what the EU are worried of
Mr Littlewood's remarks echo those of former Brexit Party MEP Ann Widdecombe, who last week told Express.co.uk: "I've said this before - what they are really worried about is getting a Singapore on their doorstep. "If you think back to John Major's time when we had an opt-out from the social chapter, we were getting at that stage 40 percent of all the imports from Japan and the United States. "The EU has not got a short memory - it will remember exactly that." Miss Widdecombe added: "This country is an economic powerhouse.


thedailyexpress--2020-12-15--Michael Gove hits out at SNP over £200m Brexit cash row – 'Should be accountable!'

Mr Gove made the calls following a question from Scottish Tory MSP Oliver Mundell .
Mr Mundell said he had issues with a “ lack of transparency ” on the funding from businesses .
Mr Gove made clear he shouldn ’ t tell a devolved government how to spend the money but stressed : “ They should be accountable to the Scottish Parliament and the Scottish people for how it 's spent .
`` The National Audit Office audits the UK Government and quite rightly asks questions about expenditure .
`` I think that Mike [ Russell ] and other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ account of exactly how that money has been spent , because like you , I 've heard one or two voices of concern from some in business .
`` I 'm sure that the Scottish Government would be able to allay those concerns if they were fully transparent about that expenditure . ''
SNP MSP Kenneth Gibson claimed Scotland should be entitled to £1.4 billion if the funding was issued based on population after Northern Ireland was awarded more cash .
But Mr Gove hit back and stressed the UK government were trying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK against each other '' over funding for preparations to leave the EU , MSPs have been told .
Mr Gove said it was a `` fair challenge '' to ask why Scotland did not receive a population-based share of funding .
READ MORE : Sturgeon compared to Tony Blair over ‘ policy failures '' That 's one of the reasons why , from Lanarkshire to Larne , the UK Government spends the money that it does - because we want to show solidarity with those who may have endured whether it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
It comes as Prime Minister Boris Johnson told his cabinet he was committed to continuing negotiations on the remaining areas of disagreement and re-emphasised the desire to strike a Brexit trade deal .
A deal remains close on the level playing field however divisions still remain on state aid and fisheries as talks continue .
Mr Gove said he remained “ optimistic ” a deal could be secured and added : “ The sooner we can get a deal , the better it will be for everyone.
`` A UK Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is taking a proactive approach to the talks and wants to secure a deal as soon as possible.
” In response , a Scottish Government spokesperson said : “ Any suggestion of a lack of transparency in relation to Scottish Government spending is entirely inaccurate .
The Scottish Budget is approved by the Scottish Parliament and published annually on the Scottish Government ’ s website .
“ We have received a range of Barnett consequentials that derive from the UK Government ’ s activities on Brexit preparations and like other consequentials they are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in line with Scottish priorities .
“ This budget has supported a vast range of preparatory work involving virtually every public body in Scotland , including every local authority .
“ Within this , we know that households who are already struggling financially will find life even harder after EU exit , and at a time when local government and the third sector resources are already stretched .
“ This is why we have created an additional £100 million package of measures to support vulnerable people , communities and the third sector in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , children and people at risk of homelessness or social isolation cope with the concurrent impacts of Brexit , coronavirus and the winter weather .
“ The UK Government last week announced it was giving an additional £400m of post transition support to Northern Ireland to spend on Brexit and Finance Minister Kate Forbes has now written to the Chancellor demanding to know whether a proportionate , fair and equitable level of funds will also be made available to Scotland .
“ We will continue to do everything we can to mitigate against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the transition period , but we simply can not avert every negative consequence of no deal or ‘ low deal ’ .
”

Brexit: European Council can apply deal alone says expert
Speaking at Holyrood’s Europe Committee this afternoon, Mr Gove asked the Scottish Government to publish a list of how the £200m was spent. The Cabinet Office Minister claimed the UK Government awarded the SNP led administration "just shy" of £200 million to prepare for leaving the EU, compared to Northern Ireland who received £400 million.
Trending
Mr Gove made the calls following a question from Scottish Tory MSP Oliver Mundell. Mr Mundell said he had issues with a “lack of transparency” on the funding from businesses. Mr Gove made clear he shouldn’t tell a devolved government how to spend the money but stressed: “They should be accountable to the Scottish Parliament and the Scottish people for how it's spent. "The National Audit Office audits the UK Government and quite rightly asks questions about expenditure. "I think that Mike [Russell] and other Scottish Government ministers should present an itemised account of exactly how that money has been spent, because like you, I've heard one or two voices of concern from some in business.
A Brexit funding row has erupted
£200m was given to the Scottish Government
"I'm sure that the Scottish Government would be able to allay those concerns if they were fully transparent about that expenditure." SNP MSP Kenneth Gibson claimed Scotland should be entitled to £1.4 billion if the funding was issued based on population after Northern Ireland was awarded more cash. But Mr Gove hit back and stressed the UK government were trying to avoid "pitting parts of the UK against each other" over funding for preparations to leave the EU, MSPs have been told. Mr Gove said it was a "fair challenge" to ask why Scotland did not receive a population-based share of funding. READ MORE: Sturgeon compared to Tony Blair over ‘policy failures
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Michael Russell is among the ministers involved, Mr Gove claims
Michael Gove, Cabinet Office minister
"That's one of the reasons why, from Lanarkshire to Larne, the UK Government spends the money that it does - because we want to show solidarity with those who may have endured whether it was deindustrialisation in the past or other challenges." It comes as Prime Minister Boris Johnson told his cabinet he was committed to continuing negotiations on the remaining areas of disagreement and re-emphasised the desire to strike a Brexit trade deal. A deal remains close on the level playing field however divisions still remain on state aid and fisheries as talks continue. Mr Gove said he remained “optimistic” a deal could be secured and added: “The sooner we can get a deal, the better it will be for everyone. "
Brexit: European Council can apply deal alone says expert


thedailyexpress--2020-12-15--Robert Peston hints at 'preparation for no deal' as MPs face extra Commons sittings

Lawmakers were this week told to expect extra Commons sittings over the festive period in order for a Brexit trade deal to be passed .
But Mr Peston said the additional sittings could be used to conduct last-minute preparations for a hard Brexit .
He responded to reports suggesting the Commons could sit early next week to vote on a deal with Brussels .
He said an extra meeting of MPs being scheduled would not necessarily mean a deal had been secured .
Mr Peston tweeted : “ For those seeing the possibility of the Commons sitting on Monday and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal with EU may be close , it is worth noting ministers were also warned today they may be working between Xmas and new year to prepare for no deal on 1 Jan. ” On Tuesday evening BBC Newsnight ’ s political editor , Nicholas Watt , said he had gotten wind of a possible deal between London and Brussels .
He said there was a “ big buzz ” among Tory MPs about an agreement which would keep eurosceptics satisfied .
He said MPs had been told , “ the signal will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the Commons will sit on Monday and Tuesday next week.
” Mr Rees-Mogg , the leader of the House of Commons , on Tuesday , announced a change to parliamentary business but failed to confirm when the Commons will break for Christmas .
Making a statement to MPs , he said all stages of the Trade ( Disclosure of Information ) Bill will now be considered on Wednesday .
READ MORE : EU on collision course as expert claims Council can bypass MEPs He added he will make a further statement about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexiteer was urged to allow all MPs to take part in Commons business virtually given it is `` not safe '' for them to travel to Westminster over the Christmas period .
SNP chief whip Patrick Grady said if there is a House sitting next week or over Christmas “ there has to be virtual participation for everyone because it 's not safe to travel and given the East Coast Main Line is going to be closed , it 's not going to be possible for most people to travel . ''
DO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit risks hundreds of fishing jobs [ ANALYSIS ] Redwood warns 'tentacles of EU spreading into UK ' lives [ INSIGHT ] Britons warn EU 'we wo n't be bullied around ' as no deal Brexit likely [ WARNING ] Mr Rees-Mogg said the Government is ensuring legislation needed before the end of the Brexit transition period can be approved by MPs .
He also said : `` I did warn members last Thursday , as I thought it was only fair to do so , that we might have to act flexibly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Mr Rees-Mogg said , “ there is no last moment ” to secure a free trade deal with Brussels as he hinted at a possible last-minute agreement .

Brexit: Redwood warns of 'EU tentacles' without UK control
Lawmakers were this week told to expect extra Commons sittings over the festive period in order for a Brexit trade deal to be passed. But Mr Peston said the additional sittings could be used to conduct last-minute preparations for a hard Brexit.
Trending
He responded to reports suggesting the Commons could sit early next week to vote on a deal with Brussels. He said an extra meeting of MPs being scheduled would not necessarily mean a deal had been secured. Mr Peston tweeted: “For those seeing the possibility of the Commons sitting on Monday and Tuesday as a sign a free trade deal with EU may be close, it is worth noting ministers were also warned today they may be working between Xmas and new year to prepare for no deal on 1 Jan.” On Tuesday evening BBC Newsnight’s political editor, Nicholas Watt, said he had gotten wind of a possible deal between London and Brussels.
Robert Peston has hinted at possible no-deal Brexit preparations over Christmas
The PM pictured outside No10 on Tuesday
He said there was a “big buzz” among Tory MPs about an agreement which would keep eurosceptics satisfied. He said MPs had been told, “the signal will come if and when Jacob Rees-Mogg announces that the Commons will sit on Monday and Tuesday next week.” Mr Rees-Mogg, the leader of the House of Commons, on Tuesday, announced a change to parliamentary business but failed to confirm when the Commons will break for Christmas. Making a statement to MPs, he said all stages of the Trade (Disclosure of Information) Bill will now be considered on Wednesday. READ MORE: EU on collision course as expert claims Council can bypass MEPs
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Mr Rees-Mogg is a staunch Brexiteer
He added he will make a further statement about future business on Thursday. The staunch Brexiteer was urged to allow all MPs to take part in Commons business virtually given it is "not safe" for them to travel to Westminster over the Christmas period. SNP chief whip Patrick Grady said if there is a House sitting next week or over Christmas “there has to be virtual participation for everyone because it's not safe to travel and given the East Coast Main Line is going to be closed, it's not going to be possible for most people to travel."
DON'T MISS
German minister warns no deal Brexit risks hundreds of fishing jobs [ANALYSIS]
Redwood warns 'tentacles of EU spreading into UK' lives [INSIGHT]
Britons warn EU 'we won't be bullied around' as no deal Brexit likely [WARNING]
Jacob Rees-Mogg leaving Downing Street
Leader of the Commons, Mr Rees-Mogg
Mr Rees-Mogg said the Government is ensuring legislation needed before the end of the Brexit transition period can be approved by MPs. He also said: "I did warn members last Thursday, as I thought it was only fair to do so, that we might have to act flexibly to developments in what is going on." Mr Rees-Mogg said, “there is no last moment” to secure a free trade deal with Brussels as he hinted at a possible last-minute agreement.
Brexit: European Council can apply deal alone says expert
He suggested negotiations could continue “until Big Ben strikes 11 o’clock” on December 31. The UK’s Brexit transition period will expire on New Year’s Eve. In comments carried by the Independent, the Commons leader left the door open for a vote on a deal in 2021.
Michel Barnier pictured in London


thedailyexpress--2020-12-15--Boris Johnson speaks with ERG MPs in Brexit update – told to 'ignore EU propaganda'

It came amid briefings a Brexit deal has been reached between the UK and EU .
However , the Government is set to pour cold water over the idea the UK has `` sold out '' to Brussels in negotiations and say talks are ongoing .
Conservative backbenchers were expected to be told this evening not to believe the `` propaganda '' and `` fake news '' coming from Brussels .
A deal could still be announced later this week .
With signs a deal may be taking shape , the Leader of the House of Commons , Jacob Rees-Mogg @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be asked to remain in Westminster next week to vote on a potential deal .
Parliament is currently due to break up for the Christmas period on Thursday .
READ MORE ON OUR BREXIT LIVE BLOG Speaking to Express.co.uk this evening , one Brexiteer MP said : `` ERG representatives are going to No10 this evening and what they 're telling me is that what they 've been told by Downing Street is do n't believe the propaganda the EU are putting out . ''
They added : `` The EU appear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ putting out what they want to be true rather than what 's actually true . ''
The Brexiteer MPs will insist they would not back a deal which is not in the UK 's interests and would be willing to vote against the Government if necessary .
The EU transition period ends on December 31 , at which point Britain will trade with Brussels on World Trade Organisation Terms unless a trade pact is agreed .
A Tory MP also told this website tonight Conservative backbenchers would reiterate to No10 they would not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ through the Commons at breakneck speed due to the short time remaining until the end of the transition period .
They said : `` We need the best legal minds to study it and we need to debate it .
READ MORE : EU no deal Brexit vote : MEPs back plans to lock UK in bloc 's red tape '' We know that the devil is in the detail .
`` This is n't a quick fix if a deal came forward .
This is potentially forever so it 's no good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the last hurdle and signing up to something without reading it . ''
The issues of fishing , state aid and fair competition have plagued the Brexit negotiations for months .
However , on Sunday Boris Johnson and the European Commission , President Ursula von der Leyen agreed to continue talks in the hope of reaching a deal .
DO N'T MISS : UK signs £5bn trade deal with Mexico in 'stepping stone ' to trade pact [ UPDATE ] Boris Johnson urged to STOP negotiating with Barnier [ REACTION ] French @ @ @ @ @ @ @ naval officer exposed [ UNVEILED ] Optimism of a breakthrough rose yesterday when EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier briefed EU27 ambassadors a `` narrow path '' to a trade pact was in sight .
However , Downing Street has been keen to play down any talk of a breakthrough in negotiations .
A source close to the UK negotiators said this evening : `` The position is the same , talks remain very difficult . ''
The source added : `` But we 're not close on this stuff yet .
There 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ through , on other areas too , so there 's genuinely no reason to be excited about things today . ''

Brexit: Britons react to latest extension to trade deal talks
It came amid briefings a Brexit deal has been reached between the UK and EU. However, the Government is set to pour cold water over the idea the UK has "sold out" to Brussels in negotiations and say talks are ongoing.
Conservative backbenchers were expected to be told this evening not to believe the "propaganda" and "fake news" coming from Brussels. A deal could still be announced later this week. With signs a deal may be taking shape, the Leader of the House of Commons, Jacob Rees-Mogg is expected to set out whether MPs will be asked to remain in Westminster next week to vote on a potential deal. Parliament is currently due to break up for the Christmas period on Thursday. READ MORE ON OUR BREXIT LIVE BLOG
Boris will hold crunch talks with MPs
No10 have told Brexiteer MPs to 'ignore the EU's propaganda'
Speaking to Express.co.uk this evening, one Brexiteer MP said: "ERG representatives are going to No10 this evening and what they're telling me is that what they've been told by Downing Street is don't believe the propaganda the EU are putting out." They added: "The EU appear to be getting desperate. They're putting out what they want to be true rather than what's actually true." The Brexiteer MPs will insist they would not back a deal which is not in the UK's interests and would be willing to vote against the Government if necessary. The EU transition period ends on December 31, at which point Britain will trade with Brussels on World Trade Organisation Terms unless a trade pact is agreed. A Tory MP also told this website tonight Conservative backbenchers would reiterate to No10 they would not be forced into voting a trade deal through the Commons at breakneck speed due to the short time remaining until the end of the transition period. They said: "We need the best legal minds to study it and we need to debate it. READ MORE: EU no deal Brexit vote: MEPs back plans to lock UK in bloc's red tape
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Hopes of a deal rose when Michel Barnier briefed EU ambassadors a 'narrow path' to a pact was possible
No10 has said UK negotiator David Frost is still hard at work in talks
"We know that the devil is in the detail. "This isn't a quick fix if a deal came forward. This is potentially forever so it's no good after four and a half years falling at the last hurdle and signing up to something without reading it." The issues of fishing, state aid and fair competition have plagued the Brexit negotiations for months. However, on Sunday Boris Johnson and the European Commission, President Ursula von der Leyen agreed to continue talks in the hope of reaching a deal. DON'T MISS:
UK signs £5bn trade deal with Mexico in 'stepping stone' to trade pact [UPDATE]
Boris Johnson urged to STOP negotiating with Barnier [REACTION]
French fisherman’s threat to HANG British naval officer exposed [UNVEILED]
Boris Johnson phoned Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday and agreed to continue Brexit talks
Optimism of a breakthrough rose yesterday when EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier briefed EU27 ambassadors a "narrow path" to a trade pact was in sight. However, Downing Street has been keen to play down any talk of a breakthrough in negotiations. A source close to the UK negotiators said this evening: "The position is the same, talks remain very difficult." The source added: "But we're not close on this stuff yet. There's a lot of outstanding details to go through, on other areas too, so there's genuinely no reason to be excited about things today."
Brexit end game: The steps needed for a trade deal to be secured
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thedailyexpress--2020-12-15--EU no deal Brexit vote: MEPs back plans to lock UK into bloc's red tape in 2021

MEPs voted overwhelmingly to support the plans drawn up by eurocrats after a recent call between Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen and Boris Johnson .
Last week the European Commission set out contingency measures under which British airlines may be banned from flying to European destinations if the UK refuses to follow the bloc ’ s demands for a “ level playing field ” .
The EU would insist Britain continue to follow Brussels ’ competition rules as the price for allowing planes to fly or British lorries to continue operating across the bloc for six months .
Eurocrats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government to allow EU fishing boats into UK waters until December 31 , 2021 .
In a series of votes , the European Parliament largely backed all of the measures that would be rolled out in the event of a no-deal Brexit .
The MEPs voted 695 to three , with two abstentions to for the transport links to be maintained if trade talks fail .
And they voted 686 to three , with six abstentions , to extend an offer for Britain to reopen its fishing waters .
British officials have already @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keep reciprocal offer to keep fishing grounds open in the event of no deal .
In a series of private briefings , EU Brexit chief Michel Barnier told colleagues that failure to strike an agreement could result in fresh “ sector-by-sector ” talks that could drag on until 2026 .
The Frenchman , who is set to retire at the end of the year , said his replacement will take a “ different approach ” to future wrangling over a future relationship pact with Britain .
He said any talks after no deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Canada , which took five-and-a-half years to produce a trade pact .
According to a source familiar with the discussions , Mr Barnier told MEPs : “ If these negotiations can not be completed by December 31 , we will continue beyond that .
“ And , of course , we will continue with the UK .
Our door will always remain open , but the context will be different.
” He said future talks between the UK and EU would take the shape of a “ more normal negotiation with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK signs £5bn trade deal with Mexico in 'stepping stone ' to trade pact British officials have warned there is no guarantee they will return for fresh talks with the bloc in 2021 , with the Prime Minister insisting the UK can still “ prosper mightily ” without an agreement .
Treasury minister Stephen Barclay said the EU needs to move if a deal is to be reached .
He said : “ The discussions are ongoing .
The fundamentals remain the same .
It is in both sides ’ interest to have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prime Minister has committed to .
DO N'T MISS Hidden law means UK remains subservient to EU control [ COMMENT ] Irish fishermen ‘ fear influx of French vessels if UK waters protected ’ [ REVEALED ] Dominic Raab rages at UK 's 'myopic ' obsession with Europe [ VIDEO ]

Brexit: EU ‘acting like mafia’ over fishing says columnist
MEPs voted overwhelmingly to support the plans drawn up by eurocrats after a recent call between Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen and Boris Johnson. Last week the European Commission set out contingency measures under which British airlines may be banned from flying to European destinations if the UK refuses to follow the bloc’s demands for a “level playing field”. The EU would insist Britain continue to follow Brussels’ competition rules as the price for allowing planes to fly or British lorries to continue operating across the bloc for six months.
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Eurocrats also drew up plans calling for the Government to allow EU fishing boats into UK waters until December 31, 2021. In a series of votes, the European Parliament largely backed all of the measures that would be rolled out in the event of a no-deal Brexit. The MEPs voted 695 to three, with two abstentions to for the transport links to be maintained if trade talks fail. And they voted 686 to three, with six abstentions, to extend an offer for Britain to reopen its fishing waters.
MEPs back Ursula von der Leyen's no-deal Brexit plans for EU
British officials have already rejected the EU’s offer to keep reciprocal offer to keep fishing grounds open in the event of no deal. In a series of private briefings, EU Brexit chief Michel Barnier told colleagues that failure to strike an agreement could result in fresh “sector-by-sector” talks that could drag on until 2026. The Frenchman, who is set to retire at the end of the year, said his replacement will take a “different approach” to future wrangling over a future relationship pact with Britain. He said any talks after no deal would mirror the EU’s negotiations with Canada, which took five-and-a-half years to produce a trade pact.
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EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen
According to a source familiar with the discussions, Mr Barnier told MEPs: “If these negotiations cannot be completed by December 31, we will continue beyond that. “And, of course, we will continue with the UK. Our door will always remain open, but the context will be different.” He said future talks between the UK and EU would take the shape of a “more normal negotiation with a third country”. MUST READ: UK signs £5bn trade deal with Mexico in 'stepping stone' to trade pact
What needs to be done to have a Brexit trade deal in place by January 1
British officials have warned there is no guarantee they will return for fresh talks with the bloc in 2021, with the Prime Minister insisting the UK can still “prosper mightily” without an agreement. Treasury minister Stephen Barclay said the EU needs to move if a deal is to be reached. He said: “The discussions are ongoing. The fundamentals remain the same. It is in both sides’ interest to have a deal. That is what the Prime Minister has committed to. DON'T MISS
Hidden law means UK remains subservient to EU control [COMMENT]
Irish fishermen ‘fear influx of French vessels if UK waters protected’ [REVEALED]
Dominic Raab rages at UK's 'myopic' obsession with Europe [VIDEO]
Brexit: Boris Johnson ‘battling for Britain’ says Barclay


thedailyexpress--2020-12-15--Italian Prime Minister Conte 'cannot accept' Brexit deal without level playing field

Giuseppe Conte said the leaders of the bloc ’ s 27 member states remain united in their stance to secure a strong deal with Britain .
But he said Brussels would not sign any agreement which does not include common rules and standards designed to prevent business on either side undercutting firms .
Mr Conte said : `` The negotiations with the UK concern us much .
“ We can not accept a deal not based on certain rules or without level playing field conditions '' .
The so-called `` level playing field '' is aimed at ensuring neither side @ @ @ @ @ @ @ environmental standards , workers ' rights or state subsidies .
The bloc wants the UK to sign up to a set of rules designed to ensure fair competition between businesses on both sides of the Channel .
This area , together with the legal mechanisms to govern any deal and fishing rights have been the most contentious issues in talks .
Mr Conte 's comments come after Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen agreed to restart negotiations following their phone call on Sunday .
Both leaders agreed to `` go the extra @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out from the expiration of the Brexit transition period .
READ MORE : Nicola Sturgeon SETBACK as support for SNP and independence falls Ireland ’ s Taoiseach Micheal Martin said on Tuesday that he was hopeful of a deal being reached .
He said he hoped Lord Frost and Mr Barnier could find a way to agree on the “ very difficult and challenging ” issues blighting the discussions – including the level playing field .
Mr Martin said it is a `` good sign '' talks are continuing in Brussels .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parliament ) it is important that the UK and EU negotiating teams concentrate on getting a trade deal .
DO N'T MISS France urged to 'stop controls of migrants ' after UK threat [ REACTION ] Irish fishermen ‘ fear influx of French vessels if UK waters protected ’ [ WARNING ] Dominic Raab rages at UK 's 'myopic ' obsession with Europe [ VIDEO ] He said : `` It gives me greater hope than I had last week that potentially a resolution can be found to the very difficult and challenging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fisheries and a dispute mechanism to deal with that .
`` My focus and view of that at the moment is that it 's important that both get it right and that they concentrate on getting a deal .
`` Then subsequent to that , if they can get a deal over the line it 's a matter for member states to work out how we deal with that procedure . ''
He added : `` The news last week of a conclusion to the negotiation to the protocol and the withdrawal agreement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deserve credit on the constructive way that they engaged and indications were good .
`` It 's important in terms of the experience in a post-Brexit Ireland , that the agreement is signed off . ''
Hours later reports suggested there was a `` big buzz '' among MPs in Mr Johnson 's party about a possible deal with the EU .
Hardline Tory Eurosceptics are `` being reassured they will be happy '' , it was claimed .
BBC Newsnight 's political editor Nicholas Watt tweeted : `` Big buzz in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK is heading towards a Brexit deal with the EU .

Brexit: European Council can apply deal alone says expert
Giuseppe Conte said the leaders of the bloc’s 27 member states remain united in their stance to secure a strong deal with Britain. But he said Brussels would not sign any agreement which does not include common rules and standards designed to prevent business on either side undercutting firms.
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Mr Conte said: "The negotiations with the UK concern us much. “But EU member states are united, strong, and supportive. “We cannot accept a deal not based on certain rules or without level playing field conditions". The so-called "level playing field" is aimed at ensuring neither side can unfairly compete with the other on environmental standards, workers' rights or state subsidies.
BREAKING: Italian Prime Minister Conte 'cannot accept' Brexit deal without Level Playing Field
Italy's Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte issued a Brexit warning on Tuesday
The bloc wants the UK to sign up to a set of rules designed to ensure fair competition between businesses on both sides of the Channel. This area, together with the legal mechanisms to govern any deal and fishing rights have been the most contentious issues in talks. Mr Conte's comments come after Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen agreed to restart negotiations following their phone call on Sunday. Both leaders agreed to "go the extra mile" in talks just two weeks out from the expiration of the Brexit transition period. READ MORE:Nicola Sturgeon SETBACK as support for SNP and independence falls
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Mr Conte said he would not agree to a trade deal without a level playing field
Ireland’s Taoiseach Micheal Martin said on Tuesday that he was hopeful of a deal being reached. He said he hoped Lord Frost and Mr Barnier could find a way to agree on the “very difficult and challenging” issues blighting the discussions – including the level playing field. Mr Martin said it is a "good sign" talks are continuing in Brussels. He told the Dail (Ireland’s parliament) it is important that the UK and EU negotiating teams concentrate on getting a trade deal. DON'T MISS
France urged to 'stop controls of migrants' after UK threat [REACTION]
Irish fishermen ‘fear influx of French vessels if UK waters protected’ [WARNING]
Dominic Raab rages at UK's 'myopic' obsession with Europe [VIDEO]
Boris Johnson leaves Downing Street
The EU's chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, is holding talks with Lord Frost in Brussels this week
He said: "It gives me greater hope than I had last week that potentially a resolution can be found to the very difficult and challenging issues of a level playing field, fisheries and a dispute mechanism to deal with that. "My focus and view of that at the moment is that it's important that both get it right and that they concentrate on getting a deal. "Then subsequent to that, if they can get a deal over the line it's a matter for member states to work out how we deal with that procedure." He added: "The news last week of a conclusion to the negotiation to the protocol and the withdrawal agreement was very good news. Both sides deserve credit on the constructive way that they engaged and indications were good.
Brexit timeline
"It's important in terms of the experience in a post-Brexit Ireland, that the agreement is signed off." Hours later reports suggested there was a "big buzz" among MPs in Mr Johnson's party about a possible deal with the EU. Hardline Tory Eurosceptics are "being reassured they will be happy", it was claimed. BBC Newsnight's political editor Nicholas Watt tweeted: "Big buzz in the last hour among Tory MPs that the UK is heading towards a Brexit deal with the EU.
The UK's chief Brexit negotiator, Lord Frost


thedailyexpress--2020-12-15--Germany furious as EU to be nearly month behind UK's Covid vaccine rollout

Health Minister Jens Spahn initially said he had received assurances from the European Medicines Agency ( EMA ) that a jab would be approved by December 23 .
The announcement comes after he called for the process to be sped up because the EU was already lagging behind Britain and the United States in rolling out a vaccine .
On Sunday , he said : “ All the necessary data on BioNTech are available .
“ UK and US have already granted approval .
An assessment of the data and approval by the EMA should happen as fast as possible.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ has announced it will complete its approval process of the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid jab by December 21 .
The decision will now land eight days ahead of their previously planned date of December 29 .
Responding to the news , Mr Spahn said : “ Our goal is an approval before Christmas .
“ We want to still start vaccinating this year.
” The health minister had expressed concerns about the delay to the EU ’ s process with Germany having readied 440 vaccination centres and called up around 10,000 medical staff to begin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says it 's ready to give three to four million doses of the BioNTech jab in January and up to 11 million in the first four months of 2021 .
Mr Spahn believes as much as 60 percent of his country could be vaccinated by the end of next summer , which is within the World Health Organisation ’ s prediction , of 60 to 70 percent of the population , to all but end the pandemic .
The EMA , the EU ’ s drug watchdog , had previously poked criticism at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out a vaccine .
While EU states are free to complete their own regulatory checks , they agreed to adopt a unified approach .
But with vaccines in the arms of citizens in Britain and the US , some European capitals have pressed the EMA to accelerate the bloc ’ s efforts .
Italian health minister Roberto Speranza said : “ My hope is that the EMA , in compliance with all safety procedures , will be able to approve the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine earlier than expected and that vaccinations can also begin in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soon as possible.
” Many Germans have complained about being forced to wait for the vaccine , which was developed by a domestic firm .
Christine Aschenberg-Dugnus , an MP for the German Free Democrats , said : `` It can not be that a vaccine that has been developed in Germany is only approved and vaccinated here in January.
” The German Hospital Association also demanded that the EU shorten its lengthy approval process .
DO N'T MISS Christmas chaos : Starmer calls for meeting to scrap 5 day rules [ INSIGHT @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'disingenuous ' argument on London [ REVEALED ] Matt Hancock savaged for 'scaring Britons ' with 'nightmare ' mutation [ VIDEO ]

Dr Amir Khan discusses ‘new strain’ of Coronavirus
Health Minister Jens Spahn initially said he had received assurances from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) that a jab would be approved by December 23. The announcement comes after he called for the process to be sped up because the EU was already lagging behind Britain and the United States in rolling out a vaccine. On Sunday, he said: “All the necessary data on BioNTech are available.
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“UK and US have already granted approval. An assessment of the data and approval by the EMA should happen as fast as possible.” Since his rant, the EMA has announced it will complete its approval process of the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid jab by December 21. The decision will now land eight days ahead of their previously planned date of December 29. Responding to the news, Mr Spahn said: “Our goal is an approval before Christmas.
German health minister Jens Spahn has moaned about the EU's slow vaccine approval process
“We want to still start vaccinating this year.” The health minister had expressed concerns about the delay to the EU’s process with Germany having readied 440 vaccination centres and called up around 10,000 medical staff to begin rolling out the jab immediately. Germany says it's ready to give three to four million doses of the BioNTech jab in January and up to 11 million in the first four months of 2021. Mr Spahn believes as much as 60 percent of his country could be vaccinated by the end of next summer, which is within the World Health Organisation’s prediction, of 60 to 70 percent of the population, to all but end the pandemic.
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Jens Spahn wanted the EU process sped up with the UK and US already vaccinating people
The EMA, the EU’s drug watchdog, had previously poked criticism at Britain’s fast-tracked efforts for rolling out a vaccine. While EU states are free to complete their own regulatory checks, they agreed to adopt a unified approach. But with vaccines in the arms of citizens in Britain and the US, some European capitals have pressed the EMA to accelerate the bloc’s efforts. Italian health minister Roberto Speranza said: “My hope is that the EMA, in compliance with all safety procedures, will be able to approve the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine earlier than expected and that vaccinations can also begin in the countries of the European Union as soon as possible.” MUST READ: Medicine: Robot parasites could 'solve healthcare problem'
The European Medicines Agency is the EU's drug watchdog
Coronavirus 'nasal spray vaccine' discussed by expert