thedailyexpress--2020-11-12--Boris Johnson handed HUGE blow as Director of Communications resigns

Brexiteer Lee Cain has confirmed he will leave his position inside Downing Street at the end of the year .
The shock decision comes less than 24 hours after reports emerged Mr Cain , a key figure in the Vote Leave campaign , was due to be appointed as the Prime Minister 's chief of staff .
Mr Cain is also a close ally of the Prime Minister ’ s chief adviser Dominic Cummings , who helped to mastermind the Brexit vote in the 2016 EU referendum .
The shake-up comes amid growing unhappiness among backbench Tory MPs at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the coronavirus crisis .
BBC Political Editor Laura Kuenssberg said the departure has also raised questions over the future of Mr Cummings inside Number 10 .
In a post on Twitter , she wrote : “ A lot of unhappy people in Number 10 tonight - chance that some of Cain ’ s allies will quit - possible that Dominic Cummings will also go .
“ Don ’ t underestimate how close he and Cain have been - let ’ s see what plays out.
” ITV Political Editor Robert Peston claimed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Prime Minister and insisted Mr Cummings could go too .
He added : “ Big question tonight is whether Dominic Cummings will resign in solidarity with Lee Cain - who was forced out by @ BorisJohnson .
“ Downing St insiders think that may transpire .
It would be a defining moment in the history of this government.
” In a statement , Mr Cain confirmed will leave his position as Director of Communications at Number 10 following “ careful consideration ” .
He was appointed to the role after Mr Johnson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Mr Cain said it was a “ privilege ” to work for the Prime Minister and confirmed he was offered a promotion to serve Mr Johnson as chief of staff .
He said : “ After careful consideration I have this evening resigned as No 10 director of communications and will leave the post at the end of the year .
READ MORE : Brexit LIVE : Huge US trade deal warning after Biden phone call '' It has been a privilege to work as an adviser for Mr Johnson for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a team that helped him win the Tory leadership contest , secure the largest Conservative majority for three decades - and it was an honour to be asked to serve as the Prime Minister 's chief of staff .
`` I would like to thank all the team at No 10 - including the many unsung and incredibly talented civil servants - for their hard work and support during the last 18 months .
`` And most of all I would like to thank the Prime Minister for his loyalty and leadership .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Johnson as a special adviser when he was made foreign secretary by Theresa May .
The Prime Minister has paid tribute to Mr Cain 's `` extraordinary service '' to the Government over the past four years .
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Lee Cain: PM’s director of communications resigns
Brexiteer Lee Cain has confirmed he will leave his position inside Downing Street at the end of the year. The shock decision comes less than 24 hours after reports emerged Mr Cain, a key figure in the Vote Leave campaign, was due to be appointed as the Prime Minister's chief of staff.
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Mr Cain is also a close ally of the Prime Minister’s chief adviser Dominic Cummings, who helped to mastermind the Brexit vote in the 2016 EU referendum. The shake-up comes amid growing unhappiness among backbench Tory MPs at the performance of Number 10 and its handling of the coronavirus crisis. BBC Political Editor Laura Kuenssberg said the departure has also raised questions over the future of Mr Cummings inside Number 10. In a post on Twitter, she wrote: “A lot of unhappy people in Number 10 tonight - chance that some of Cain’s allies will quit - possible that Dominic Cummings will also go.
Lee Cain has resigned from his position in Government
Lee Cain worked alongside Dominic Cummings on the Vote Leave campaign
“Don’t underestimate how close he and Cain have been - let’s see what plays out.” ITV Political Editor Robert Peston claimed Mr Cain was shown the door by the Prime Minister and insisted Mr Cummings could go too. He added: “Big question tonight is whether Dominic Cummings will resign in solidarity with Lee Cain - who was forced out by @BorisJohnson. “Downing St insiders think that may transpire. It would be a defining moment in the history of this government.”
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Dominic Cummings' future in Government has been questioned
In a statement, Mr Cain confirmed will leave his position as Director of Communications at Number 10 following “careful consideration”. He was appointed to the role after Mr Johnson won the Tory leadership contest in 2019. Mr Cain said it was a “privilege” to work for the Prime Minister and confirmed he was offered a promotion to serve Mr Johnson as chief of staff. He said: “After careful consideration I have this evening resigned as No 10 director of communications and will leave the post at the end of the year. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: Huge US trade deal warning after Biden phone call
Laura Kuenssberg has said the departure has divided Number 10
"It has been a privilege to work as an adviser for Mr Johnson for the last three years - being part of a team that helped him win the Tory leadership contest, secure the largest Conservative majority for three decades - and it was an honour to be asked to serve as the Prime Minister's chief of staff. "I would like to thank all the team at No 10 - including the many unsung and incredibly talented civil servants - for their hard work and support during the last 18 months. "And most of all I would like to thank the Prime Minister for his loyalty and leadership." Mr Cain had also worked for Mr Johnson as a special adviser when he was made foreign secretary by Theresa May. The Prime Minister has paid tribute to Mr Cain's "extraordinary service" to the Government over the past four years. DON'T MISS Ireland pleads with Brussels to 'compromise' in Brexit talks [INSIGHT]
Prince Harry's joke about being with 100 women exposed [ANALYSIS]
BBC Weather: Carol Kirkwood warns 'gusty' 54mph winds to thrash UK [FORECAST]
Boris Johnson has paid tribute to Mr Cain's 'extraordinary service'


thedailyexpress--2020-11-12--Oh dear, Keir! Labour humiliated as party plunges in poll to trail Boris Johnson

The Labour leader has been working hard to make inroads into the huge lead the Prime Minister and the Tories built up following the general election last December .
That appeared to have paid off when Labour recently overtook their rivals in some leading polls as the Government was forced to fight against criticism over its efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19 .
But the latest survey from Savanta ComRes shows that despite the Tories being faced with multiple crises , support for Sir Keir 's Labour Party has quickly fallen away .
The poll , conducted from November @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were a General Election tomorrow to elect MPs to Westminster , which of the following parties do you think you would vote for or would you vote for another party ? ''
** GET THE EXPRESS DELIVERED FREE FOR SIX WEEKS ** Support for Labour plunged four points from the week before to 36 percent , while the Tories regained the lead from the rivals after remaining on 40 percent .
The Liberal Democrats gained one point to increase their share to eight percent .
Nicola Sturgeon 's SNP remained unchanged on five @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their share by a point to also reach five percent .
The Prime Minister and his Conservative Party have risked the fury of the British population , by placing the country back into a four-week national lockdown in a desperate bid to curb the rapid spread of coronavirus infections .
But at the end of last month , Labour was plunged into crisis after former leader Jeremy Corbyn was suspended , after he said the extent of anti-Semitism in the party had been `` dramatically overstated for political reasons '' , in response @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in response to the findings of an 18-month investigation from the Equality and Human Rights Commission ( EHRC ) , which found the party was responsible for unlawful acts of harassment and discrimination .
Labour was found to be responsible for three breaches of the Equality Act ( 2010 ) relating to : political interference in complaints , failure to provide adequate training to those handling anti-Semitism cases and harassment .
But Mr Corbyn hit back at the report , adding the scale of the anti-Semitism problem in Labour was `` dramatically overstated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ announced the party had `` suspended Jeremy Corbyn pending investigation '' following his failure to retract the comments .
Elsewhere , Savanta ’ s Coronavirus Data Tracker shows Mr Johnson 's net approval rating for his handling of the coronavirus crisis has increased five percent from last week , at -16 percent .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock 's net approval rating has increased by the same margin but remains in negative figures on -17 percent .
DO N'T MISS Keir may have a sharper tailor but it 's the same old socialist cloth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Brexit ’ Nigel Farage opens up after Joe Biden win [ COMMENT ] Boris Johnson and Nicola Sturgeon tensions soar over indy [ ANALYSIS ] Sir Keir 's net approval rating has increased two percent since last week to stand at 0 percent , while Chancellor rishi sunk is up three points to 12 percent .
Savanta ComRes said in its report : `` Rishi Sunak will be encouraged to see that his extension of furlough appears to have been well received , with a 6pt drop since 25th October of those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t doing enough to support employees – 38 percent last week vs 44 percent for week ending 25th October .
`` Levels of worry and negative impact on mental health have both risen over the past few weeks .
`` Nearly half ( 47 percent ) of respondents say they are either very worried or the most worried they have ever been about COVID-19 , a steady rise since a low of 38 percent for the week ending 30th August .

Keir Starmer grilled by caller over support for lockdown
The Labour leader has been working hard to make inroads into the huge lead the Prime Minister and the Tories built up following the general election last December. That appeared to have paid off when Labour recently overtook their rivals in some leading polls as the Government was forced to fight against criticism over its efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19. But the latest survey from Savanta ComRes shows that despite the Tories being faced with multiple crises, support for Sir Keir's Labour Party has quickly fallen away.
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The poll, conducted from November 6-8, asked: "If there were a General Election tomorrow to elect MPs to Westminster, which of the following parties do you think you would vote for or would you vote for another party?" ** GET THE EXPRESS DELIVERED FREE FOR SIX WEEKS ** Support for Labour plunged four points from the week before to 36 percent, while the Tories regained the lead from the rivals after remaining on 40 percent. The Liberal Democrats gained one point to increase their share to eight percent. Nicola Sturgeon's SNP remained unchanged on five percent, while the Green Party increased their share by a point to also reach five percent.
Keir Starmer has seen his Labour Party fall behind the Tories in a leading poll
The Labour Party has recently been plunged into crisis
The Prime Minister and his Conservative Party have risked the fury of the British population, by placing the country back into a four-week national lockdown in a desperate bid to curb the rapid spread of coronavirus infections. But at the end of last month, Labour was plunged into crisis after former leader Jeremy Corbyn was suspended, after he said the extent of anti-Semitism in the party had been "dramatically overstated for political reasons", in response to a report. His comments came in response to the findings of an 18-month investigation from the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), which found the party was responsible for unlawful acts of harassment and discrimination. Labour was found to be responsible for three breaches of the Equality Act (2010) relating to: political interference in complaints, failure to provide adequate training to those handling anti-Semitism cases and harassment. READ MORE: PMQs LIVE - Boris Johnson SHAMES Starmer over desperate vaccine dig
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The Tories have opened up a four-point lead over Labour
But Mr Corbyn hit back at the report, adding the scale of the anti-Semitism problem in Labour was "dramatically overstated" for political reasons. Labour then announced the party had "suspended Jeremy Corbyn pending investigation" following his failure to retract the comments. Elsewhere, Savanta’s Coronavirus Data Tracker shows Mr Johnson's net approval rating for his handling of the coronavirus crisis has increased five percent from last week, at -16 percent. Health Secretary Matt Hancock's net approval rating has increased by the same margin but remains in negative figures on -17 percent. DON'T MISS
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Boris Johnson's net approval rating for his handling of the coronavirus crisi has increased
Rishi Sunak has remained popular with voters
Sir Keir's net approval rating has increased two percent since last week to stand at 0 percent, while Chancellor rishi sunk is up three points to 12 percent. Savanta ComRes said in its report: "Rishi Sunak will be encouraged to see that his extension of furlough appears to have been well received, with a 6pt drop since 25th October of those who say that the Government aren’t doing enough to support employees – 38 percent last week vs 44 percent for week ending 25th October. "Levels of worry and negative impact on mental health have both risen over the past few weeks. "Nearly half (47 percent) of respondents say they are either very worried or the most worried they have ever been about COVID-19, a steady rise since a low of 38 percent for the week ending 30th August.
The government has been trying to curb the rapid spread of coronavirus infections across the UK


thedailyexpress--2020-11-12--'Put the House of Lords in the bin!' Campaign launched to scrap unelected peers

Just days after the Lords threw a spanner in the works by blocking the Internal Market Bill , calls are growing for the chamber to be scrapped .
Currently , there are around 800 unelected members of the House of Lords - far more than the 650 MPs democratically elected into the House of Commons .
Inverclyde MP Ronnie Cowan has called for the upper chamber to be abolished , claiming it is undemocratic .
In his blog , the SNP MP said : `` The unelected second chamber should be put in the recycle bin .
“ A bicameral @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place but there are better ways than appointing Lords and Ladies .
“ Citizens assemblies have been used in different forms since ancient Greece .
“ There is a place for them in the 21st century .
“ And handing out royal baubles that honour subjects for a life time ’ s work does not come close to paying them a better wage or funding the charity or organisation they have dedicated their working life to.
” He also took a swipe at the royal honours system , which recognises outstanding achievement and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Showering rich celebrities and sportsmen with honours is repulsive .
“ The honours system underpins the aristocracy and the class system , it supports the concept of a hierarchical society .
It breeds conceit and privilege .
It promotes self , rather than society.
” Mr Cowan said the Lords should be part of a reform of British politics to create a “ system fit for the 21st century '' which was “ forward-thinking and inclusive ” .
READ MORE : SNP MP shamed after demanding Queen be stripped of throne He added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ service , industry , finance , civic society and politicians can explore and develop new solutions .
“ Solutions that can be scrutinised , critiqued and improved . ''
Douglas Ross , leader of the Scottish Conservatives , is also calling for a reform of the House of Lords , claiming the second chamber needed a radical rethink away from its “ current London-centric membership ” .
Mr Ross , MP for Moray , stressed more non-English peers needed to be appointed from the devolved nations .
He added : “ The thing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that over 40 per cent of the current members of the House of Lords live in London and the South East .
DO N'T MISS : Sturgeon blow as SNP warned Scots independence is n't priority [ REVEAL ] SNP told to 'ABANDON divisive independence plans ' and focus on COVID [ LATEST ] Spy chief says Nuclear Trident removal could scupper Scottish indy [ INSIGHT ] “ Regional and national representation is something that is , at the moment , just determined not on where someone is from , but where that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or two individuals , where they stay at the time .
“ I think it would be better to have more recognised representation from Scotland and other parts of the UK , not just Wales , Northern Ireland and Scotland but also in some areas in the north of England where you ’ ve got mayoralties and they don ’ t have as much representation as hereditary peers do at the moment , and members of the Church of England.
” He said : “ I ’ m also in favour of reducing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s bigger than our democratically elected House of Commons , and you could go through a number of people here and probably suggest they should or shouldn ’ t be there.
” He concluded to The Herald : “ If you look at anything on social media with the House of Lords , it is normally when [ Lords ] can ’ t work their Zoom , or they ’ ve fallen asleep , or they start swearing because they think the camera has gone off .
That ’ s all people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the House of Lords was a “ highly effective and busy Chamber , performing a vital role of improving legislation and holding the Government to account .
”

Nigel Farage criticises the ‘bloated House of Lords’
Just days after the Lords threw a spanner in the works by blocking the Internal Market Bill, calls are growing for the chamber to be scrapped. Currently, there are around 800 unelected members of the House of Lords - far more than the 650 MPs democratically elected into the House of Commons.
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Inverclyde MP Ronnie Cowan has called for the upper chamber to be abolished, claiming it is undemocratic. In his blog, the SNP MP said: "The unelected second chamber should be put in the recycle bin. “A bicameral system that scrutinises and guides has its place but there are better ways than appointing Lords and Ladies. “Citizens assemblies have been used in different forms since ancient Greece. “There is a place for them in the 21st century.
Two MPs complained about the Lords
Peers are Unelected
“And handing out royal baubles that honour subjects for a life time’s work does not come close to paying them a better wage or funding the charity or organisation they have dedicated their working life to.” He also took a swipe at the royal honours system, which recognises outstanding achievement and hard work. He added: “Showering rich celebrities and sportsmen with honours is repulsive. “The honours system underpins the aristocracy and the class system, it supports the concept of a hierarchical society. It breeds conceit and privilege. It promotes self, rather than society.” Mr Cowan said the Lords should be part of a reform of British politics to create a “system fit for the 21st century" which was “forward-thinking and inclusive”. READ MORE: SNP MP shamed after demanding Queen be stripped of throne
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Ronnie Cowan (pictured left)
The MP group in Westminster is led by Ian Blackford


thedailyexpress--2020-11-11--Tory MP caught on-camera swearing at colleague after hilarious jibe in Commons

The Tory MP made the swearing gesture after Mr Mercer joked he had the misfortune of knowing his colleague for too long .
Speaking at a Commons debate to mark Remembrance Day , the Minister of Defence said : `` What I would say is that unfortunately him ( Bob Stewart ) and I have been friends for far too long .
And you know ... he thinks that ... '' As he noticed the Colonel gesturing behind him , Mr Mercer joked : `` Oh , he 's finally woken up ! ''
It came after Colonel Stewart told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ injured in a bomb blast as she died .
The Tory MP recalled the harrowing story of how the young girl , who had lost her legs and one arm in the attack , asked if she was going to die - and he told her she would .
Mr Stewart also said he watched six men under his command die during the same incident in Northern Ireland in 1982 .
READ MORE : 'Never forgotten ! '
Tributes as 101-year-old war hero laid to rest '' I remember all the men that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ particular today may I mention those killed at Ballykelly on 6 December 1982 where 17 people were killed .
Six of them were civilians and 11 were soldiers , '' he said .
`` Six of the soldiers were from my own company , the company of the Cheshire 's : Stephen Bagshaw , Clinton Collins , Philip McDonough , David Stitt , Stephen Smith and Shaw Williamson .
They all died when I was present .
`` I was the incident commander and as I went into the wrecked building that was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ almost the first person I saw was a girl lying on the ground .
I was horrified .
Both her legs had gone and an arm .
I knelt down horrified again and spoke to her . ''
Mr Stewart continued to describe how he spoke to the girl before she died .
`` 'Are you alright darling ? '
She said , ' I think so ' .
I said , 'Are you hurting ? '
She said , 'no ' .
I said to her , 'How are you feeling ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't know , what 's happened ? '
I said , 'There has been a bomb ' .
'Oh ' , she said , ' am I hurt ? '
I said , 'You 're hurt ' .
She said , 'Am I hurt very badly ? '
I said , 'You 're hurt very badly ' .
`` She said , 'Am I going to die ? '
But , forgive me , I said , 'yes ' .
`` There was blood everywhere .
And she said , 'Am I going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said , ' I think you are ' .
And she said , 'Will you hold me ? '
`` I held her and she died within two minutes .
I wept .
She died in a state of grace , '' he said .
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Conservative MP Bob Stewart jokingly swears at Johnny Mercer
The Tory MP made the swearing gesture after Mr Mercer joked he had the misfortune of knowing his colleague for too long. Speaking at a Commons debate to mark Remembrance Day, the Minister of Defence said: "What I would say is that unfortunately him (Bob Stewart) and I have been friends for far too long. And you know...he thinks that..."
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As he noticed the Colonel gesturing behind him, Mr Mercer joked: "Oh, he's finally woken up!" It came after Colonel Stewart told MPs of how he cradled a girl injured in a bomb blast as she died. The Tory MP recalled the harrowing story of how the young girl, who had lost her legs and one arm in the attack, asked if she was going to die - and he told her she would. Mr Stewart also said he watched six men under his command die during the same incident in Northern Ireland in 1982. READ MORE: 'Never forgotten!' Tributes as 101-year-old war hero laid to rest
Remembrance Day: Bob Stewart makes swearing gesture in the Commons
Remembrance Day: Johnny Mercer mocked Bob Stewart during the Commons debate
"I remember all the men that were killed under my command and in particular today may I mention those killed at Ballykelly on 6 December 1982 where 17 people were killed. Six of them were civilians and 11 were soldiers," he said. "Six of the soldiers were from my own company, the company of the Cheshire's: Stephen Bagshaw, Clinton Collins, Philip McDonough, David Stitt, Stephen Smith and Shaw Williamson. They all died when I was present. "I was the incident commander and as I went into the wrecked building that was the Droppin Well (Pub), almost the first person I saw was a girl lying on the ground. I was horrified. Both her legs had gone and an arm. I knelt down horrified again and spoke to her." Mr Stewart continued to describe how he spoke to the girl before she died.
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This Morning pauses for Remembrance Day silence
"'Are you alright darling?' She said, 'I think so'. I said, 'Are you hurting?' She said, 'no'. I said to her, 'How are you feeling?' She said, 'I don't know, what's happened?' I said, 'There has been a bomb'. 'Oh', she said,' am I hurt?' I said, 'You're hurt'. She said, 'Am I hurt very badly?' I said, 'You're hurt very badly'. "She said, 'Am I going to die?' But, forgive me, I said, 'yes'. "There was blood everywhere. And she said, 'Am I going to die now?' And I said, 'I think you are'. And she said, 'Will you hold me?' "I held her and she died within two minutes. I wept. She died in a state of grace," he said. DON'T MISS:
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Remembrance Day: MPs laugh as Bob Stewart makes swearing sign


thedailyexpress--2020-11-11--Ireland pleads with EU to 'compromise' in Brexit talks to avoid devastating no deal

Foreign minister Simon Coveney warned there will be “ real problems ” if an agreement isn ’ t found before the end of the year .
In speech to a think-tank in Dublin , he urged Michel Barnier to “ show some compromise to accommodate many British asks ” in the final phase of Brexit talks .
His intervention came after it emerged EU chiefs had set Downing Street a deadline of next Thursday for a future relationship pact to be wrapped up .
Mr Coveney said : “ I think we may well be likely to go into next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not there yet .
“ What I would say is the UK Government understand only too well what 's needed for an agreement here .
“ I do n't believe the EU ask is unreasonable and the EU also needs to show some compromise to accommodate many British asks.
” “ That 's why I believe we will get a deal because of the cost of not getting a deal particularly for Britain and Ireland.
” Mr Coveney , however , suggested the UK would still have to accept fair competition rules and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get the deal over the line .
British officials are concerned that the EU is still unwilling to accept Brexit means Downing Street will be free to set its own rules for Britain .
One insider said : `` We can ’ t agree to arrangements requiring us to operate laws equivalent to the EU ’ s and make us pay a penalty if we moved away from them .
`` We need policy space to decide what is in the UK ’ s interest in the future .
That is the very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Brussels has reportedly issued a seven-day ultimatum to No10 to have any Brexit deal ready for a crunch meeting of EU leaders .
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Brexit: Ben Habib claims European businesses want a deal
Foreign minister Simon Coveney warned there will be “real problems” if an agreement isn’t found before the end of the year. In speech to a think-tank in Dublin, he urged Michel Barnier to “show some compromise to accommodate many British asks” in the final phase of Brexit talks. His intervention came after it emerged EU chiefs had set Downing Street a deadline of next Thursday for a future relationship pact to be wrapped up.
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Mr Coveney said: “I think we may well be likely to go into next week on these negotiations. We're not there yet. “What I would say is the UK Government understand only too well what's needed for an agreement here. “I don't believe the EU ask is unreasonable and the EU also needs to show some compromise to accommodate many British asks.” He added: “No deal costs are pretty sobering.
Ireland's Simon Coveney has urged the EU to compromise in Brexit talks with the UK
Michel Barnier and Simon Coveney meet in Brussels
“That's why I believe we will get a deal because of the cost of not getting a deal particularly for Britain and Ireland.” Mr Coveney, however, suggested the UK would still have to accept fair competition rules and a compromise of future fishing rights to get the deal over the line. British officials are concerned that the EU is still unwilling to accept Brexit means Downing Street will be free to set its own rules for Britain.
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Lord Frost and Michel Barnier are holding Brexit talks in London
One insider said: "We can’t agree to arrangements requiring us to operate laws equivalent to the EU’s and make us pay a penalty if we moved away from them. "We need policy space to decide what is in the UK’s interest in the future. That is the very essence of what Brexit is about." Brussels has reportedly issued a seven-day ultimatum to No10 to have any Brexit deal ready for a crunch meeting of EU leaders. MUST READ: Brexit deal worth £10billion to be done with Canada in just weeks
Michel Barnier is the EU's chief Brexit negotiator
Brexit: The cost of not securing a deal 'is too high' says Coveney


thedailyexpress--2020-11-11--Commons erupts in laughter as SNP compares Indyref2 rejection to Trump's election denial

The SNP MP for Perth and North Perthshire claimed refusing to give Scotland a second referendum on independence from the rest of the United Kingdom was comparable to Donald Trump 's rejection of the US election results .
He said : `` He 's doing such a fantastic job in strengthening the Union that support for independence is at a historic high and there 's been a sustained majority all year .
`` Saying no to a majority in Scotland is only going to drive support for independence even higher . ''
He added : `` The Scottish people are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more , so what 's the difference between denying a majority in the Trump White House and denying a majority in the Scotland Office ? ''
Scotland Secretary Alister Jack replied : `` He had quite a tenuous link there .
To be quite simple , my belief is that we stick to the referendum and respect it from 2014 .
`` It was very clear the SNP said at the time it was once-in-a-generation .
`` I do n't believe we should go into a process of 'neverendums ' which are divisive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scotland .
`` We should respect democracy and that 's what I 'm doing , democracy that was handed out by the Scottish people in 2014 . ''
SNP MP Dr Philippa Whitford compared Scotland to a wife trapped in a marriage during the Commons exchange on the Union and the issue of a second independence referendum .
Dr Whitford said : `` He ( Mr Jack ) seems to think the way to strengthen the Union is by forcing a hard Brexit on Scotland against our will , taking an axe to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and denying any democratic choice on Scotland 's future until adults like me are dead .
`` On that basis , does he think the best recipe for a happy marriage is to lock up the wife , take away her chequebook and just keep refusing a divorce ? ''
Mr Jack replied : `` A generation , by any calculation , is 25 years and frankly , you just have to accept that and focus on what matters , which is recovering from this pandemic and us all pulling together . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jack over his indication that the UK Government intends to refuse another independence referendum `` for a generation '' .
She said : `` ( Alister Jack ) has recently said that the job retention scheme will last into next year , but he 's also said that there will be no referendums on Scotland 's future for a generation .
`` Now , of course , the Edinburgh Agreement , signed by a Tory prime minister ( David Cameron ) , provided the legal framework for the 2014 referendum .
So I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) quote where it says in that agreement that there can not be another referendum ? ''
DO N'T MISS : SNP brutally slapped down for 'irrelevant ' Scottish independence probe [ VIDEO ] Ian Blackford mocked after claiming Joe Biden now President of CANADA [ INSIGHT ] Sturgeon shamed : First Minister attacked over new Covid lockdown rules [ ANALYSIS ] Mr Jack responded : `` While we 're all fighting this pandemic and trying to secure and support people 's jobs , it beggars belief that the SNP carry on talking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I find it really quite disappointing , but the answer to her question , it was mentioned many times in the White Paper that the SNP Government produced in advance of that referendum , once in a generation was mentioned on a number of pages . ''
Mr Jack also said any potential COVID-19 vaccine will be distributed fairly across all parts of the UK according to population share .
Responding to a question from Conservative MP Douglas Ross ( Moray ) , Mr Jack said : `` Well , we 've @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any successful vaccine .
`` These vaccines have been procured for and paid by the UK Government on behalf of everyone in the United Kingdom , and these doses will be distributed fairly and they 'll be distributed across all parts of the United Kingdom according to population share . ''

SNP's Pete Wishart grilled over 'tenuous link' by Alister Jack
The SNP MP for Perth and North Perthshire claimed refusing to give Scotland a second referendum on independence from the rest of the United Kingdom was comparable to Donald Trump's rejection of the US election results. He said: "He's doing such a fantastic job in strengthening the Union that support for independence is at a historic high and there's been a sustained majority all year.
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"Saying no to a majority in Scotland is only going to drive support for independence even higher." He added: "The Scottish people are not finding this democracy denial funny any more, so what's the difference between denying a majority in the Trump White House and denying a majority in the Scotland Office?" Scotland Secretary Alister Jack replied: "He had quite a tenuous link there. To be quite simple, my belief is that we stick to the referendum and respect it from 2014. "It was very clear the SNP said at the time it was once-in-a-generation. READ MORE: SNP savaged for incessant referendum independence demands
SNP MP Pete Wishart compares refusal to hold Indyref2 to Donald Trump's White House
Scotland Secretary Alister Jack said SNP should respect the 2014 referendum result
"I don't believe we should go into a process of 'neverendums' which are divisive, unsettling, bad for jobs in Scotland. "We should respect democracy and that's what I'm doing, democracy that was handed out by the Scottish people in 2014." SNP MP Dr Philippa Whitford compared Scotland to a wife trapped in a marriage during the Commons exchange on the Union and the issue of a second independence referendum. Dr Whitford said: "He (Mr Jack) seems to think the way to strengthen the Union is by forcing a hard Brexit on Scotland against our will, taking an axe to devolution with the Internal Market Bill, and denying any democratic choice on Scotland's future until adults like me are dead. "On that basis, does he think the best recipe for a happy marriage is to lock up the wife, take away her chequebook and just keep refusing a divorce?"
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IndyRef2: Alister Jack tells SNP MP to ‘respect democracy’
Mr Jack replied: "A generation, by any calculation, is 25 years and frankly, you just have to accept that and focus on what matters, which is recovering from this pandemic and us all pulling together." SNP Scotland spokeswoman Mhairi Black pressed Mr Jack over his indication that the UK Government intends to refuse another independence referendum "for a generation". She said: "(Alister Jack) has recently said that the job retention scheme will last into next year, but he's also said that there will be no referendums on Scotland's future for a generation. "Now, of course, the Edinburgh Agreement, signed by a Tory prime minister (David Cameron), provided the legal framework for the 2014 referendum. So I'm wondering, can (Mr Jack) quote where it says in that agreement that there cannot be another referendum?" DON'T MISS:
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SNP news: MPs in the Commons laughed at the comparisons made by SNP MPs


thedailyexpress--2020-11-11--SNP told to have 'respect' after comparing Scots Brexit to locking up wife to deny divorce

Scotland Secretary Alister Jack called on the SNP to respect the result of the 2014 referendum after an SNP MP has compared Scotland to a wife trapped in a marriage during a Commons exchange on the Union and the issue of a second independence referendum .
Mr Jack explained Scotland would have to wait at least 25 years for another vote on independence .
Despite this , Nicola Sturgeon announced earlier this year she plans to publish draft legislation in 2021 for a second referendum .
The SNP 's Dr Philippa Whitford said : `` I hope the Secretary of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be another one for 40 years .
`` He seems to think the way to strengthen the Union is by forcing a hard Brexit on Scotland against our will , taking an axe to devolution with the Internal Market Bill and denying any democratic choice on Scotland 's future until adults like me are dead .
`` On that basis , does he think the best recipe for a happy marriage is to lock up the wife , take away her chequebook and just keep refusing a divorce ? ''
Speaking in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` I think it 's quite straightforward .
READ MORE : Sturgeon shamed : First Minister attacked over new Covid lockdown rules '' I think people should respect democracy as I 've said in a previous question .
`` We 're respecting democracy saying we 're acknowledging once in a generation .
`` We do n't think that Scotland should thrown into the uncertainty of neverendums and it certainly is very straightforward .
`` A generation by any calculation is 25 years and frankly , you just have to accept that and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from this pandemic and us all pulling together . ''
Fellow SNP MP Pete Wishart compared the Scotland Office to the Trump White House over the question of a new referendum .
He said : `` He 's doing such a fantastic job in strengthening the Union that support for independence is at a historic high and there 's been a sustained majority all year .
Saying no to a majority in Scotland is only going to drive support for independence even higher .
`` The Scottish people are not finding this democracy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's the difference between denying a majority at the Trump White House and denying a majority in the Scotland Office ? ''
SNP Scotland spokeswoman Mhairi Black pressed Mr Jack over his indication that the UK Government intends to refuse another independence referendum `` for a generation '' .
Hancock shames SNP 'division ' after she demands No10 copy Sturgeon [ INSIGHT ] BBC 's Kuenssberg warns of Cabinet 'panic ' on Scotland independence [ VIDEO ] SNP told to 'ABANDON divisive independence plans ' and focus on COVID [ ANALYSIS ] She @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said that the job retention scheme will last into next year , but he 's also said that there will be no referendums on Scotland 's future for a generation .
`` Now , of course the Edinburgh Agreement , signed by a Tory prime minister David Cameron , provided the legal framework for the 2014 referendum .
So I 'm wondering , can Mr Jack quote where it says in that agreement that there can not be another referendum ? ''
Mr Jack responded : `` While we 're all fighting this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people 's jobs , it beggars belief that the SNP carry on talking about independence referendums and about separation .
`` I find it really quite disappointing , but the answer to her question , it was mentioned many times in the White Paper that the SNP Government produced in advance of that referendum , once in a generation was mentioned on a number of pages . ''

IndyRef2: Alister Jack tells SNP MP to ‘respect democracy’
Scotland Secretary Alister Jack called on the SNP to respect the result of the 2014 referendum after an SNP MP has compared Scotland to a wife trapped in a marriage during a Commons exchange on the Union and the issue of a second independence referendum. Mr Jack explained Scotland would have to wait at least 25 years for another vote on independence. Despite this, Nicola Sturgeon announced earlier this year she plans to publish draft legislation in 2021 for a second referendum.
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The SNP's Dr Philippa Whitford said: "I hope the Secretary of State isn't suggesting there won't be another one for 40 years. "He seems to think the way to strengthen the Union is by forcing a hard Brexit on Scotland against our will, taking an axe to devolution with the Internal Market Bill and denying any democratic choice on Scotland's future until adults like me are dead. "On that basis, does he think the best recipe for a happy marriage is to lock up the wife, take away her chequebook and just keep refusing a divorce?" Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Jack said: "I think it's quite straightforward. READ MORE: Sturgeon shamed: First Minister attacked over new Covid lockdown rules
SNP MP has compared Scotland to a wife trapped in a marriage
Scotland Secretary Alister Jack called on the SNP to respect the result of the 2014 referendum
"I think people should respect democracy as I've said in a previous question. "We're respecting democracy saying we're acknowledging once in a generation. "We don't think that Scotland should thrown into the uncertainty of neverendums and it certainly is very straightforward. "A generation by any calculation is 25 years and frankly, you just have to accept that and focus on what matters which is recovering from this pandemic and us all pulling together."
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Nicola Sturgeon announced earlier this year she plans to publish draft legislation in 2021
Coronavirus vaccine news ‘gives UK hope’ says Nicola Sturgeon
Fellow SNP MP Pete Wishart compared the Scotland Office to the Trump White House over the question of a new referendum. He said: "He's doing such a fantastic job in strengthening the Union that support for independence is at a historic high and there's been a sustained majority all year. Saying no to a majority in Scotland is only going to drive support for independence even higher. "The Scottish people are not finding this democracy denial funny any more, so what's the difference between denying a majority at the Trump White House and denying a majority in the Scotland Office?" SNP Scotland spokeswoman Mhairi Black pressed Mr Jack over his indication that the UK Government intends to refuse another independence referendum "for a generation". DON'T MISS Hancock shames SNP 'division' after she demands No10 copy Sturgeon [INSIGHT]
BBC's Kuenssberg warns of Cabinet 'panic' on Scotland independence [VIDEO]
SNP told to 'ABANDON divisive independence plans' and focus on COVID [ANALYSIS]
Scotland independence


thedailyexpress--2020-11-11--It's now or NEVER: UK blasts EU ignoring 'essence' of Brexit as seven day blitz launched

British officials are concerned the wrangling over the future relationship pact will go to the wire because the European Union still refuses to accept “ the very essence of what Brexit is about ” .
The talks are now expected to be extended into next week ahead of a crunch summit of European leaders .
EU insiders have claimed the video conference , scheduled for next week , is the final deadline to conclude any Brexit deal .
But it was revealed Michel Barnier was still unwilling to drop demands that could keep Britain tied to the bloc after Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ break the deadlock , Ireland called for Brussels to “ show some compromise to accommodate many British asks ” .
UK sources close to the talks accused their EU counterparts of failing to understand the UK should be free to make its own rules and regulations after the post-Brexit transition period expires in December .
One Government insider said the EU was trying to punish Downing Street for wanting to free the country from the bloc ’ s demand for a regulatory “ level-playing field ” .
The source said : `` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on what is appropriate on level playing field issues .
“ We have been clear that we can look at common principles for our different subsidy systems and perhaps even at the ability to act if a major subsidy genuinely distorts trade .
“ What we can ’ t agree to are arrangements which would require us to operate systems of laws equivalent to the EU ’ s and make us pay a penalty if we moved away from them .
“ We need policy space to decide what is in the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ That is the very essence of what Brexit is about.
” Senior European figures are now concerned failure to break the logjam could see the time run out for a Brexit deal to be completed .
The Prime Minister 's official spokesman said : `` The talks are ongoing in London this week as part of the intensive talks process .
The negotiating teams are working hard and for our part we continue to seek solutions that respect UK sovereignty . ''
He added : `` Time is in short supply and for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hard to bridge the gaps which remain between our two positions . ''
Next Thursday ’ s leadership summit , arranged to discuss the latest developments in the coronavirus pandemic , is now seen as a crucial moment in the EU-UK talks .
MUST READ : Brexit deal worth £10billion to be done with Canada in just weeks One EU diplomat said : “ If there isn ’ t good news by then , you really have to say that time is up – it just isn ’ t possible .
“ The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is there.
” Irish foreign minister Simon Coveney today admitted any progress would be “ unlikely this week ” with Lord Frost and Mr Barnier expected to hold talks in London until the weekend .
DO N'T MISS Brexit row erupts as raging haulage boss 'unfairly ' slams Michael Gove [ INSIGHT ] Brexit deadline MISSED : EU talks extended again - but end in sight [ REPORT ] 'Let them get on with it ' Ex-PM David Cameron rages at Remainers [ REVEALED ]

Brexit: Withdrawal Agreement is 'less than optimal' says Swayne
British officials are concerned the wrangling over the future relationship pact will go to the wire because the European Union still refuses to accept “the very essence of what Brexit is about”. The talks are now expected to be extended into next week ahead of a crunch summit of European leaders. EU insiders have claimed the video conference, scheduled for next week, is the final deadline to conclude any Brexit deal.
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But it was revealed Michel Barnier was still unwilling to drop demands that could keep Britain tied to the bloc after Brexit. And with both sides unable to break the deadlock, Ireland called for Brussels to “show some compromise to accommodate many British asks”. UK sources close to the talks accused their EU counterparts of failing to understand the UK should be free to make its own rules and regulations after the post-Brexit transition period expires in December. One Government insider said the EU was trying to punish Downing Street for wanting to free the country from the bloc’s demand for a regulatory “level-playing field”.
David Frost's negotiating time are growing tiresome of the EU's refusal to accept Brexit
David Frost is Boris Johnson's lead negotiator with Brussels
The source said: "We have a different view from the EU on what is appropriate on level playing field issues. “We have been clear that we can look at common principles for our different subsidy systems and perhaps even at the ability to act if a major subsidy genuinely distorts trade. “What we can’t agree to are arrangements which would require us to operate systems of laws equivalent to the EU’s and make us pay a penalty if we moved away from them.
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Lord Frost and Michel Barnier are currently locked in trade talks in London
“We need policy space to decide what is in the UK’s interest in the future. That is the very essence of what Brexit is about.” Senior European figures are now concerned failure to break the logjam could see the time run out for a Brexit deal to be completed. The Prime Minister's official spokesman said: "The talks are ongoing in London this week as part of the intensive talks process. The negotiating teams are working hard and for our part we continue to seek solutions that respect UK sovereignty." He added: "Time is in short supply and for our part we continue to work very hard to bridge the gaps which remain between our two positions." Next Thursday’s leadership summit, arranged to discuss the latest developments in the coronavirus pandemic, is now seen as a crucial moment in the EU-UK talks. MUST READ: Brexit deal worth £10billion to be done with Canada in just weeks
Michel Barnier wants to hold more Brexit talks in Brussels next week
Brexit: Removing clause is 'stab in back for Ireland' says Hoey


thedailyexpress--2020-11-12--Greedy MEPs moan about losing £300 daily expenses after being told to work from home

Euro politicians have been ordered to work from home as the second wave of coronavirus sweeps across the Continent .
The Parliament ’ s buildings in Brussels and Strasbourg have been shut to all but the most senior representatives and eurocrats .
This has also provoked fury from greedy MEPs who have been told they ’ re no longer allowed to claim their £300-a-day allowance to stop them travelling simply to claim their expenses .
MEPs already pocket more than £100,000 in salary and expenses every year .
German MEP Gunnar Beck wrote to President David Sassoli to express his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ insisted MEPs had been forced to “ high away at home like frightened rabbits and to approve EU legislation and hundreds of billions of public expenditure from their children ’ s bedrooms or in their pyjamas ” .
He added : “ Is it reasonable or ethical to expect healthcare and other essential workers to continue carrying out apparently hazardous jobs while consigning other citizens to near-certain unemployment and hence an uncertain and dismal future , when MEPs and parliamentary officials , on generally higher wages , are told to retreat into salaried @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another German MEP , Markus Ferber , bemoaned that his fellow Euro politicians had been forced to take public transport after the Parliament ’ s limousine service was suspended .
In a rant at the Parliament ’ s decision-makers , Mr Ferber fumed : “ We have to take public transport .
Is that the protection you think we are worthy of ?
“ Every day you get your per diems , we don ’ t get them , because you have decided that without any kind of legal basis you have referred @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the centre of a Parliament-wide rant about the cuts to MEPs ’ expenses .
He wrote to thousands of politicians and assistants claiming the Parliament had lost its “ legitimacy ” and accused the authorities of damaging democracy .
The daily allowances handed to MEPs costs European taxpayers more than £1 million a week .
The politicians are also given a lump sum General Expenditure allowance of £4,147 every month to cover the cost of their offices on top of their £6,321 salaries .
MUST READ : MEPs say they ca n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Alex Phillips , a former British MEP , claimed many of her European colleagues would simply turn up to work to abuse the expense schemes .
She said : “ MEPs already get salaries often higher than politicians back home , despite having about a hundredth of the workload .
“ The per diems are there to cover the cost of travel and accommodation to the parliaments in Brussels and Strasbourg on days when MEPs need to be there - which is , in fact , almost never , as Parliament sits once @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a few days .
DO N'T MISS EU splurge £900k on Covid tests while most Europeans pay for their own [ EXCLUSIVE ] Eurocrats splash out on business class flights to stock EU museum [ REVEALED ] EU gravy train exposed : How MEPs spend £60m a year on their commutes [ INSIGHT ]

Coronavirus: David Sassoli on EU Parliament cancellations
Euro politicians have been ordered to work from home as the second wave of coronavirus sweeps across the Continent. The Parliament’s buildings in Brussels and Strasbourg have been shut to all but the most senior representatives and eurocrats. This has also provoked fury from greedy MEPs who have been told they’re no longer allowed to claim their £300-a-day allowance to stop them travelling simply to claim their expenses.
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MEPs already pocket more than £100,000 in salary and expenses every year. German MEP Gunnar Beck wrote to President David Sassoli to express his displeasure over the shutdown. Mr Beck insisted MEPs had been forced to “high away at home like frightened rabbits and to approve EU legislation and hundreds of billions of public expenditure from their children’s bedrooms or in their pyjamas”. He added: “Is it reasonable or ethical to expect healthcare and other essential workers to continue carrying out apparently hazardous jobs while consigning other citizens to near-certain unemployment and hence an uncertain and dismal future, when MEPs and parliamentary officials, on generally higher wages, are told to retreat into salaried hibernation?”
EU Parliament cancels £300-a-day expenses for MEPs during coronavirus shutdown
German MEP Markus Ferber complained about lack of expenses and limo services
The intervention came as another German MEP, Markus Ferber, bemoaned that his fellow Euro politicians had been forced to take public transport after the Parliament’s limousine service was suspended. In a rant at the Parliament’s decision-makers, Mr Ferber fumed: “We have to take public transport. Is that the protection you think we are worthy of? “Every day you get your per diems, we don’t get them, because you have decided that without any kind of legal basis you have referred to.” Mr Ferber was last week at the centre of a Parliament-wide rant about the cuts to MEPs’ expenses.
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German MEP Gunnar Beck wrote to the Parliament president about the shut down
He wrote to thousands of politicians and assistants claiming the Parliament had lost its “legitimacy” and accused the authorities of damaging democracy. The daily allowances handed to MEPs costs European taxpayers more than £1 million a week. The politicians are also given a lump sum General Expenditure allowance of £4,147 every month to cover the cost of their offices on top of their £6,321 salaries. MUST READ: MEPs say they can't afford lifestyles after daily expenses are cut
The European Parliament is under lockdown due to coronavirus
Alex Phillips, a former British MEP, claimed many of her European colleagues would simply turn up to work to abuse the expense schemes. She said: “MEPs already get salaries often higher than politicians back home, despite having about a hundredth of the workload. “The per diems are there to cover the cost of travel and accommodation to the parliaments in Brussels and Strasbourg on days when MEPs need to be there - which is, in fact, almost never, as Parliament sits once a month in Strasbourg and Committees but a few days. DON'T MISS
EU splurge £900k on Covid tests while most Europeans pay for their own [EXCLUSIVE]
Eurocrats splash out on business class flights to stock EU museum [REVEALED]
EU gravy train exposed: How MEPs spend £60m a year on their commutes [INSIGHT]
Charles-Henri Gallois says EU is ‘totally useless institution’


thedailyexpress--2020-11-12--Brexit campaign team LOSING CONTROL of No10 with Cummings now considering resignation

There are concerns the reform agenda championed by members of the official Brexit campaign will be put on the back-burner , should Remainers and Establishment stalwarts take back control of Downing Street .
Last night , one of the Prime Minister ’ s most senior aides , Lee Cain , announced he will be stepping down as director of communications after a tussle for power inside No10 .
Mr Cain was the press officer for the Vote Leave campaign and has been a key ally of Boris Johnson .
Mr Cain worked with Mr Cummings and the Prime Minister in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK out of the European Union .
Mr Cummings - the Prime Minister ’ s most senior and high-profile adviser - is said to be furious Mr Cain had been forced out .
While he has decided against resigning immediately , an insider claimed Mr Cumming ’ s future is in doubt and he too could depart Downing Street .
Other close members of the Vote Leave team who work in No10 are also said to be considering their positions .
Mr Cain 's resignation comes at a crucial time where the Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of post-Brexit trade with the EU .
Negotiations with the EU are currently ongoing with both sides holding crucial talks to agree a deal before the end of the transition period .
READ MORE : Boris Johnson handed huge blow as director of communications resigns A number of MPs celebrated Mr Cain ’ s departure with some saying they would be “ over the moon ” if Mr Cummings also resigned .
One senior MP told the Guardian : “ Boris must take this chance to pivot back to being the liberal unifier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no-hopers and start a new team , but it does look like tonight that Carrie and those urging a more inclusive Boris are winning.
” But some fear the departure of the Vote Leave team would mean to Conservatives would no longer prioritise the levelling up agenda and civil service reform championed by the Prime Minister over the last 12 months .
Announcing his departure , Mr Cain said : “ It has been a privilege to work as an adviser for Mr Johnson for the last three years - being part of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tory leadership contest , secure the largest Conservative majority for three decades - and it was an honour to be asked to serve as the prime minister ’ s chief of staff .
DO N'T MISS Cummings ' brutal assessment of Brexit talks laid bare : 'Grotesque ! '
[ COMMENT ] Dominic Cummings branded 'Maoist right-winger ' by Dominic Grieve [ REVEAL ] Dominic Cummings ' brutal critique of Merkel 's influence [ INSIGHT ] “ I would like to thank all the team at No10 - including the many unsung and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hard work and support during the last 18 months .
“ And most of all I would like to thank the prime minister for his loyalty and leadership .
“ I have no doubt that under his premiership the country will deliver on the promises made in the 2019 election campaign and build back better from the coronavirus pandemic.
” The Prime Minister issued a statement on Mr Cain ’ s resignation and said : “ I want to thank Lee for his extraordinary service to the government over the last four years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ally and friend and I am very glad that he will remain director of communications until the new year and to help restructure the operation .
“ He will be much missed.
” Over the last year , a number of senior civil servants have announced they will be leaving their posts .
Jonathan Slater , the chief civil servant at the Department for Education , was sacked in August following the row over exam results across England .

Dominic Cummings refuses to answer questions on his job
There are concerns the reform agenda championed by members of the official Brexit campaign will be put on the back-burner, should Remainers and Establishment stalwarts take back control of Downing Street.
Trending
Last night, one of the Prime Minister’s most senior aides, Lee Cain, announced he will be stepping down as director of communications after a tussle for power inside No10. Mr Cain was the press officer for the Vote Leave campaign and has been a key ally of Boris Johnson. Mr Cain worked with Mr Cummings and the Prime Minister in the Vote Leave campaign to get the UK out of the European Union. Mr Cummings - the Prime Minister’s most senior and high-profile adviser - is said to be furious Mr Cain had been forced out.
Dominic Cummings considering resignation
Close ally of Cummings, Lee Cain resigned
While he has decided against resigning immediately, an insider claimed Mr Cumming’s future is in doubt and he too could depart Downing Street. Other close members of the Vote Leave team who work in No10 are also said to be considering their positions. Mr Cain's resignation comes at a crucial time where the Government is facing big decisions over the future of post-Brexit trade with the EU. Negotiations with the EU are currently ongoing with both sides holding crucial talks to agree a deal before the end of the transition period. READ MORE: Boris Johnson handed huge blow as director of communications resigns
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Lee Cain: PM’s director of communications resigns
Dominic Cummings and Lee Cain
A number of MPs celebrated Mr Cain’s departure with some saying they would be “over the moon” if Mr Cummings also resigned. One senior MP told the Guardian: “Boris must take this chance to pivot back to being the liberal unifier, sack a chunk of these cabinet no-hopers and start a new team, but it does look like tonight that Carrie and those urging a more inclusive Boris are winning.” But some fear the departure of the Vote Leave team would mean to Conservatives would no longer prioritise the levelling up agenda and civil service reform championed by the Prime Minister over the last 12 months. Announcing his departure, Mr Cain said: “It has been a privilege to work as an adviser for Mr Johnson for the last three years - being part of a team that helped him win the Tory leadership contest, secure the largest Conservative majority for three decades - and it was an honour to be asked to serve as the prime minister’s chief of staff. DON'T MISS
Cummings' brutal assessment of Brexit talks laid bare: 'Grotesque!' [COMMENT]
Dominic Cummings branded 'Maoist right-winger' by Dominic Grieve [REVEAL]
Dominic Cummings' brutal critique of Merkel's influence [INSIGHT]
Five key moments which led to Brexit
“I would like to thank all the team at No10 - including the many unsung and incredibly talented civil servants - for their hard work and support during the last 18 months. “And most of all I would like to thank the prime minister for his loyalty and leadership. “I have no doubt that under his premiership the country will deliver on the promises made in the 2019 election campaign and build back better from the coronavirus pandemic.” The Prime Minister issued a statement on Mr Cain’s resignation and said: “I want to thank Lee for his extraordinary service to the government over the last four years.
Boris Johnson with Lee Cain
“He has been a true ally and friend and I am very glad that he will remain director of communications until the new year and to help restructure the operation. “He will be much missed.” Over the last year, a number of senior civil servants have announced they will be leaving their posts. Jonathan Slater, the chief civil servant at the Department for Education, was sacked in August following the row over exam results across England.
Boris Johnson faces crisis as senior aide resigns


thedailyexpress--2020-11-12--Downing Street press conference TODAY: Alok Sharma to host announcement - Boris absent

Business Secretary Alok Sharma will lead a coronavirus briefing today from Downing Street as England nears the end of the first full week of lockdown 2.0 .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson addressed the nation on Monday but will not be present during this briefing .
The press conference comes the day after the resignation of one of Mr Johnson ’ s closest aides .
Lee Cain announced late on Wednesday that he was quitting as director of communications amid a bitter row in Downing Street .
He had been offered the post of chief of staff , but a backlash @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inner circle ultimately led to his departure from No 10 rather than a promotion .
His exit has sparked speculation he could be followed by Dominic Cummings , Mr Johnson 's top adviser who is seen as the most powerful figure in No 10 .
Read More : Coronavirus death toll reaches 595 fatalities in one day What time is the press conference today ?
Mr Sharma will host the press conference from Downing Street at 5pm today .
The conference will be shown live on major news channels like BBC and Sky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by NHS England medical director Professor Stephen Powis .
Mr Johnson 's absence comes after Downing Street has insisted the Prime Minister remains `` absolutely focused '' on the coronavirus pandemic despite the infighting inside Number 10 leading to the resignation of Mr Cain .
Mr Johnson 's official spokesman said : `` The Prime Minister is fully focused on tackling coronavirus .
`` I think you can see the progress that we 're making in terms of rolling out mass testing , in securing vaccines and also in terms of making improvements @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` So , I think what you can see is the Prime Minister is absolutely focused on beating this virus and taking the measures that are necessary to get that R rate down and bring the infection rate back under control . ''
When asked if the shake-up among senior staff was a distraction , the spokesman said : `` You 've seen from the Prime Minister this week that he 's absolutely focused on taking all the steps that are required to equip the country to beat coronavirus . ''
DO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of No10 [ INSIGHT ] With week to go and EU not backing down , should UK trigger no deal ?
[ POLL ] Capital Gains Tax : Rishi Sunak to consider tax raid due to COVID-19 [ ANALYSIS ] • Queen ‘ to be front of queue ’ for Covid vaccine say This Morning panel On Thursday the latest Test and Trace figures showed a total of 149,253 people tested positive for COVID-19 in England at least once in the week to November 4 .
This is the highest weekly number since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end of May and is an increase of eight percent in positive cases on the previous week .
England was plunged into a second lockdown on November 5 , with a month-long span of restrictions in place .
Lasting until at least December 2 , those in England have been asked to stay home where possible and avoid travel except for essential reasons .
Non-essential shops and businesses have been forced to close , and those who can work from home have been asked to do so .
Households can not mix , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ however , members from two different households can meet up socially distanced for exercise outdoors .
Restaurants and bars have been asked to close their doors but can offer takeaway and home delivery .
Announcing the lockdown Mr Johnson acknowledged the impact the restrictions would have on mental health and livelihoods across the country .
The vaccine has been tested on 43,500 people in six countries and no safety concerns have been raised .
The UK has secured 40 million doses of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine - the first agreement the firms signed with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thought people will need two doses , meaning not enough shots have been secured for the entire UK population .
However , it is likely other vaccines will announce results from their clinical trials shortly .

Boris Johnson: Kuenssberg talks struggle for 'influence' over PM
Business Secretary Alok Sharma will lead a coronavirus briefing today from Downing Street as England nears the end of the first full week of lockdown 2.0. Prime Minister Boris Johnson addressed the nation on Monday but will not be present during this briefing.
Trending
The press conference comes the day after the resignation of one of Mr Johnson’s closest aides. Lee Cain announced late on Wednesday that he was quitting as director of communications amid a bitter row in Downing Street. He had been offered the post of chief of staff, but a backlash among Tories and the Prime Minister's inner circle ultimately led to his departure from No 10 rather than a promotion. His exit has sparked speculation he could be followed by Dominic Cummings, Mr Johnson's top adviser who is seen as the most powerful figure in No 10. Read More: Coronavirus death toll reaches 595 fatalities in one day
Downing Street press conference time: Alok Sharma to host as Boris Johnson absent
READ MORE SEISS ‘mistake’ critiqued for leaving millions excluded from support What time is the press conference today? Mr Sharma will host the press conference from Downing Street at 5pm today. The conference will be shown live on major news channels like BBC and Sky News. Mr Sharma will be accompanied by NHS England medical director Professor Stephen Powis. Mr Johnson's absence comes after Downing Street has insisted the Prime Minister remains "absolutely focused" on the coronavirus pandemic despite the infighting inside Number 10 leading to the resignation of Mr Cain.
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Downing Street press conference TODAY: Mr Johnson will not be present at this afternoon's conference
Downing Street press conference TODAY: Cases of coronavirus are continuing to rise across the UK
Mr Johnson's official spokesman said: "The Prime Minister is fully focused on tackling coronavirus. "I think you can see the progress that we're making in terms of rolling out mass testing, in securing vaccines and also in terms of making improvements to things such as test and trace. "So, I think what you can see is the Prime Minister is absolutely focused on beating this virus and taking the measures that are necessary to get that R rate down and bring the infection rate back under control." When asked if the shake-up among senior staff was a distraction, the spokesman said: "You've seen from the Prime Minister this week that he's absolutely focused on taking all the steps that are required to equip the country to beat coronavirus." DON'T MISS
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READ MORE Queen ‘to be front of queue’ for Covid vaccine say This Morning panel On Thursday the latest Test and Trace figures showed a total of 149,253 people tested positive for COVID-19 in England at least once in the week to November 4. This is the highest weekly number since Test and Trace was launched at the end of May and is an increase of eight percent in positive cases on the previous week. England was plunged into a second lockdown on November 5, with a month-long span of restrictions in place. Lasting until at least December 2, those in England have been asked to stay home where possible and avoid travel except for essential reasons.
Downing Street press conference TODAY: Alok Sharma will lead today's conference
Non-essential shops and businesses have been forced to close, and those who can work from home have been asked to do so. Households cannot mix, except for support or childcare reasons, however, members from two different households can meet up socially distanced for exercise outdoors. Restaurants and bars have been asked to close their doors but can offer takeaway and home delivery. Announcing the lockdown Mr Johnson acknowledged the impact the restrictions would have on mental health and livelihoods across the country.
Downing Street press conference TODAY: Lee Cain announced late on Wednesday that he was quitting as director of communications
He said: “No one wants to be imposing these kind of measures anywhere. “There is a constant struggle and balance which the government has to take between lives and livelihoods.” However, hope came this week when Pfizer Inc on Monday said its experimental vaccine was more than 90 percent effective in preventing COVID-19 based on initial data from a large study. Pfizer and German partner BioNTech SE are the first drugmakers to show successful data from a large-scale clinical trial of a coronavirus vaccine. The companies said they have so far found no serious safety concerns and expect to seek US emergency use authorization later this month.


thedailyexpress--2020-11-12--Michael Gove mocks SNP MP over 'goldfish-type movements of lips and teeth' in brutal swipe

Michael Gove took an opportunity to mock an SNP MP in the House of Commons , prompting laughter from the benches as he did so .
Neil Gray had asked the Cabinet minister how he can expect the devolved governments to prepare for Brexit when crucial details are blocked by UK ministers .
However , Mr Gray 's attempts at rebuttal during Mr Gove 's response were flouted by the muting of his video call .
Mr Gray said : `` We now know through leaked Cabinet papers that this Tory Government hid its Brexit plans from devolved governments .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to prepare when these crucial details are blocked from Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland ?
`` And does n't the minister agree this level of ignorance and contempt is what 's helping to deliver polling support for independence at record levels and a consistent majority over the last 12 polls in a row ? ''
READ MORE : 'YEARS trying to stop Brexit ' SNP 's 'dumb ' Trump attack dismantled Mr Gove responded : `` I have no secrets from the Honourable Gentleman and we take an open-book approach towards our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I can see the Honourable Gentleman making goldfish-type movements of his lips and teeth ... no , it 's breaking out into a smile .
`` And that smile , of course , welcomes the fact that later this afternoon the Government 's sub-committee that deals with preparations for leaving the European Union will have ministers from the devolved administrations including my friends from the Scottish Government taking part .
`` It 's one of the pleasures of this role that I have the opportunity every week to talk to excellent colleagues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ others who do such a good job in working across the United Kingdom in the interests of all . ''
The leaked documents Mr Gray was referring to were reportedly circulated to ministers in June , and contained detailed plans about subsidy controls which have now appeared in the controversial UK Internal Market Bill .
However the documents state clearly that several parts `` should not be shared publicly or with the devolved administrations at this stage ” .
This included paragraphs on revoking EU laws through statutory instruments , and on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ throughout the Internal Market Bill .
DO N'T MISS Jacob Rees-Mogg tears apart SNP over 'absolutely appalling ' record [ ANALYSIS ] Boris Johnson explodes at SNP 's repeated furlough demands [ VIDEO ] SNP 's Blackford slapped down by Boris after desperate furlough plea [ INSIGHT ]

Brexit: Michael Gove mocks SNP MP for 'goldfish' expressions
Michael Gove took an opportunity to mock an SNP MP in the House of Commons, prompting laughter from the benches as he did so. Neil Gray had asked the Cabinet minister how he can expect the devolved governments to prepare for Brexit when crucial details are blocked by UK ministers. However, Mr Gray's attempts at rebuttal during Mr Gove's response were flouted by the muting of his video call.
Trending
Mr Gray said: "We now know through leaked Cabinet papers that this Tory Government hid its Brexit plans from devolved governments. "This includes state aid plans, food supply availability etc. "How does he expect these governments to prepare when these crucial details are blocked from Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland? "And doesn't the minister agree this level of ignorance and contempt is what's helping to deliver polling support for independence at record levels and a consistent majority over the last 12 polls in a row?" READ MORE: 'YEARS trying to stop Brexit' SNP's 'dumb' Trump attack dismantled
Michael Gove mocks SNP MP making goldfish-type movements of his lips and teeth
'How does he expect these governments to prepare when these crucial details are blocked?'
Mr Gove responded: "I have no secrets from the Honourable Gentleman and we take an open-book approach towards our preparations for leaving the European Union. "I can see the Honourable Gentleman making goldfish-type movements of his lips and teeth... no, it's breaking out into a smile. "And that smile, of course, welcomes the fact that later this afternoon the Government's sub-committee that deals with preparations for leaving the European Union will have ministers from the devolved administrations including my friends from the Scottish Government taking part. "It's one of the pleasures of this role that I have the opportunity every week to talk to excellent colleagues like Mike Russell, Humza Yousaf and others who do such a good job in working across the United Kingdom in the interests of all."
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'I have no secrets from Mr Gray and we take an open-book approach towards our preparations.'
Brexit: Gove clashes with SNP MP on calls for independence
The leaked documents Mr Gray was referring to were reportedly circulated to ministers in June, and contained detailed plans about subsidy controls which have now appeared in the controversial UK Internal Market Bill. However the documents state clearly that several parts "should not be shared publicly or with the devolved administrations at this stage”. This included paragraphs on revoking EU laws through statutory instruments, and on the UK Government assuming control of state aid throughout the Internal Market Bill. DON'T MISS
Jacob Rees-Mogg tears apart SNP over 'absolutely appalling' record [ANALYSIS]
Boris Johnson explodes at SNP's repeated furlough demands [VIDEO]
SNP's Blackford slapped down by Boris after desperate furlough plea [INSIGHT]
Should Scotland become an independent country?


thedailyexpress--2020-11-12--Irish firms beg Dublin for bailout as they fear financial RUIN in face of no deal Brexit

Firms face losing vital access to Britain if no trade and security agreement is found in the next 50 days .
Industry leaders have called for a furlough-style wage support package to be introduced by the Irish government in order to protect jobs .
And a new report by the Ibec Group , which represents the food and drink industry , said financial support would be required regardless of the outcome of the negotiations between the EU and UK .
Chiefs have called for almost €700million in financial support to guard the sector from the “ economic disturbance ” of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ireland director , said : “ The Irish food and drink sector is by far the most exposed of any sector in any country in Europe to Brexit – deal or no deal .
“ Supports are urgently needed not just to save companies within the food and drink sector , but also the jobs , communities and downstream suppliers sustainability .
“ Irish food products account for seven of the ten most exposed country/ food and drink product matches in the EU , with significant additional costs for Irish food and drink @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , regulatory burdens , and rising transport costs.
” The report highlights the Irish market ’ s reliance on Britain as one of its main export partners .
In 2019 , over 37 of Irish food and drink exports , valued at around €4.5billion , were sent to the UK , according to the report .
It calls for an “ enterprise stabilisation ” scheme that would see the Irish government fund wages for companies worst-hit in the event of a no deal Brexit .
The report says : “ The food and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ faces major disruption to its markets from Brexit in the midst of a global pandemic .
“ A no deal Brexit would result also in significant tariff barriers plus additional non-tariff barriers .
Each of the main food and drink sectors would see substantial falls in output .
These falls would be long lasting and would persist over time , with many products having few alternative markets .
“ Market diversification involves considerable risk and expense .
New market penetration is a long game , requiring significant investment with no guarantee of success @ @ @ @ @ @ @ face barriers in establishing commercial relationships and supply chains .
`` In addition , they must build cash ow , innovate and invest to tailor the product to consumer tastes and deal with new regulatory regimes .
The further goods travel the tighter margins will be as transport costs increase .
Significant resources will be needed to help companies meet these challenges.
” It was estimated that funds of around five percent of the total value current annual Irish sales to the UK will be needed to support the sector .
MUST READ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
Bloc will 'hit UK in face ' over new moves That could see as much as €675million being pumped into the food and drink industry over the next three years .
Some of the cash could come from the EU ’ s proposed €5billion Brexit Adjustment Reserve , which was announced earlier this year by European Council President Charles Michel .
It was understood the bailout fund would mostly be used to prop up Ireland , as well as French , Dutch and Belgian fishing towns .
DO N'T MISS Pound euro @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ FORECAST ] Boris Johnson warned Brexit no deal to be 'ruinous ' for UK [ VIDEO ] No deal in SEVEN DAYS unless EU gives in to fishing ultimatum [ UPDATES ]

Brexit: No deal would cause 'disruption' says Micheál Martin
Firms face losing vital access to Britain if no trade and security agreement is found in the next 50 days. Industry leaders have called for a furlough-style wage support package to be introduced by the Irish government in order to protect jobs. And a new report by the Ibec Group, which represents the food and drink industry, said financial support would be required regardless of the outcome of the negotiations between the EU and UK.
Trending
Chiefs have called for almost €700million in financial support to guard the sector from the “economic disturbance” of Brexit. Paul Kelly, Food Drink Ireland director, said: “The Irish food and drink sector is by far the most exposed of any sector in any country in Europe to Brexit – deal or no deal. “Supports are urgently needed not just to save companies within the food and drink sector, but also the jobs, communities and downstream suppliers sustainability. “Irish food products account for seven of the ten most exposed country/ food and drink product matches in the EU, with significant additional costs for Irish food and drink companies potentially arising from additional customs procedures, regulatory burdens, and rising transport costs.”
Ireland faces demands from business for Brexit wage support scheme
Irish prime minister Micheal Martin
The report highlights the Irish market’s reliance on Britain as one of its main export partners. In 2019, over 37 of Irish food and drink exports, valued at around €4.5billion, were sent to the UK, according to the report. It calls for an “enterprise stabilisation” scheme that would see the Irish government fund wages for companies worst-hit in the event of a no deal Brexit. The report says: “The food and drink sector is deeply resilient but now faces major disruption to its markets from Brexit in the midst of a global pandemic.
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Lord Frost and Michel Barnier are currently holding Brexit trade talks
“A no deal Brexit would result also in significant tariff barriers plus additional non-tariff barriers. Each of the main food and drink sectors would see substantial falls in output. These falls would be long lasting and would persist over time, with many products having few alternative markets. “Market diversification involves considerable risk and expense. New market penetration is a long game, requiring significant investment with no guarantee of success. Even within the single market companies face barriers in establishing commercial relationships and supply chains. "In addition, they must build cash ow, innovate and invest to tailor the product to consumer tastes and deal with new regulatory regimes. The further goods travel the tighter margins will be as transport costs increase. Significant resources will be needed to help companies meet these challenges.” It was estimated that funds of around five percent of the total value current annual Irish sales to the UK will be needed to support the sector. MUST READ: EU won't leave us alone! Bloc will 'hit UK in face' over new moves
Ireland has already had to deal with a several coronavirus lockdowns
That could see as much as €675million being pumped into the food and drink industry over the next three years. Some of the cash could come from the EU’s proposed €5billion Brexit Adjustment Reserve, which was announced earlier this year by European Council President Charles Michel. It was understood the bailout fund would mostly be used to prop up Ireland, as well as French, Dutch and Belgian fishing towns. DON'T MISS
Pound euro exchange rate 'rangebound' after two-week high [FORECAST]
Boris Johnson warned Brexit no deal to be 'ruinous' for UK [VIDEO]
No deal in SEVEN DAYS unless EU gives in to fishing ultimatum [UPDATES]
Brexit: Gove defended against freight boss by Sheerman


thedailyexpress--2020-11-12--Gove demands EU 'show flexibility' in Brexit talks as he warns: 'We are sovereign equals!'

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Michael Gove has @ @ @ @ @ recognise that the UK is a `` sovereign equal '' in Brexit negotiations .
This @ @ @ @ @ Lewell-Buck asked what the UK was willing to `` concede or compromise on '' as @ @ @ @ @ efforts '' for a trade deal before the transition period deadline .
Talks between the @ @ @ @ @ London after falling apart in the last month over each party 's red lines .
@ @ @ @ @ These negotiations are not going well and time is running out .
`` The best @ @ @ @ @ for is a very basic trade deal with the EU .
`` The minister knows @ @ @ @ @ needs to be concessions and give and take on all sides .
`` So what @ @ @ @ @ is the UK willing to concede or compromise on ? ''

Brexit: Michael Gove says EU needs to ‘show flexibility’
Michael Gove has demanded that the European Union recognise that the UK is a "sovereign equal" in Brexit negotiations. This comes after Labour MP Emma Lewell-Buck asked what the UK was willing to "concede or compromise on" as part of the "redoubled efforts" for a trade deal before the transition period deadline. Talks between the two sides have resumed in London after falling apart in the last month over each party's red lines.
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Mr Lewell-Buck said: "These negotiations are not going well and time is running out. "The best the UK can now hope for is a very basic trade deal with the EU. "The minister knows that in all negotiations there needs to be concessions and give and take on all sides. "So what exactly, if anything, is the UK willing to concede or compromise on?" READ MORE: Brexit row erupts as raging haulage boss 'unfairly' slams Michael Gove
Gove demands EU 'show flexibility' in Brexit talks as Frost braced for last-ditch showdown
'But it is important also that the European Union shows flexibility too.'
Mr Gove replied: "Well, the UK has already shown a great degree of flexibility in these negotiations. "But it is important also that the European Union shows flexibility too. "In particular, there needs to be a full recognition that we are sovereign equals. "And any attempt to continue to tie the UK into EU processes or to extend EU jurisdiction by other means would be quite wrong."
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'The minister knows that in all negotiations there needs to be concessions and give and take.'
Brexit: Gove clashes with SNP MP on calls for independence
EU TRADE NEGOTIATIONS


thedailyexpress--2020-11-12--Sturgeon caught scrambling through papers as she is confronted with SNP health sec's words

Nicola Sturgeon was left floundering in the middle of FMQs as Ruth Davidson grilled her on Scotland 's coronavirus test and trace system .
The Scottish Conservative MSP had hit out at the SNP leader over contradictions between her account of what was considered a completed contact and her own Health Secretary 's account of it .
As Ms Davidson read out Jeane Freeman 's own words , the First Minister appeared to be shifting through the papers on her desk .
Ms Davidson said : `` We need clarification because what the First Minister has just said is not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chamber last night .
`` Let me read it back precisely : 'we do not just send SMS messages , we phone contacts of index cases up to three times until we find them ' .
`` Perhaps the Health Secretary could be invited back to correct the record .
`` I do wonder how after eight weeks of missing WHO targets by a mile , we move to simple text messages and suddenly we 're hitting the target again . ''
READ MORE : Jacob Rees-Mogg tears apart SNP over 'absolutely appalling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reason that this is so important is because this data directly impacts the decisions we make .
`` Jeane Freeman tried to say that it did n't last night .
`` She said , ' I can confirm that none of the earlier or revised information , which members are welcome to look at , would have made any difference to the decision that we have taken .
`` But on September 2 , the First Minister told the chamber that the data we now get from test and protect allows us to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that we take . ''
The MSP added : `` So one tells us it has no bearing on the decisions and the other tells us it directs the decisions .
`` Rather than the hostile defensiveness to fair and reasonable questions , I think it would be better to front up to the questions we are facing . ''
Ms Sturgeon insisted that test and protect is operating `` to a very high standard '' , going on to compare it to the test and trace system in England .
DO N'T @ @ @ @ @ @ @ repeated furlough demands [ VIDEO ] Sturgeon accused of 'distracting ' from 'scandals ' as MSP exposes SNP [ EXCLUSIVE ] SNP explodes at Boris Johnson in row over Brexit deal 'power grab ' [ INSIGHT ]

Ruth Davidson asks for record to be ‘corrected’ in FMQs clash
Nicola Sturgeon was left floundering in the middle of FMQs as Ruth Davidson grilled her on Scotland's coronavirus test and trace system. The Scottish Conservative MSP had hit out at the SNP leader over contradictions between her account of what was considered a completed contact and her own Health Secretary's account of it. As Ms Davidson read out Jeane Freeman's own words, the First Minister appeared to be shifting through the papers on her desk.
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Ms Davidson said: "We need clarification because what the First Minister has just said is not what the Health Secretary said in this chamber last night. "Let me read it back precisely: 'we do not just send SMS messages, we phone contacts of index cases up to three times until we find them'. "Perhaps the Health Secretary could be invited back to correct the record. "I do wonder how after eight weeks of missing WHO targets by a mile, we move to simple text messages and suddenly we're hitting the target again." READ MORE: Jacob Rees-Mogg tears apart SNP over 'absolutely appalling' record
Sturgeon caught off guard as Ruth Davidson reads out SNP health chief's own words in FMQs
'We need clarification because what the First Minister has just said is not what Health Sec said.'
She continued: "The reason that this is so important is because this data directly impacts the decisions we make. "Jeane Freeman tried to say that it didn't last night. "She said, 'I can confirm that none of the earlier or revised information, which members are welcome to look at, would have made any difference to the decision that we have taken. "But on September 2, the First Minister told the chamber that the data we now get from test and protect allows us to be much more targeted in the measures that we take."
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Ms Sturgeon appeared to be scrambling through her papers.
Nicola Sturgeon grilled over tier system in Scotland by reporter
The MSP added: "So one tells us it has no bearing on the decisions and the other tells us it directs the decisions. "Rather than the hostile defensiveness to fair and reasonable questions, I think it would be better to front up to the questions we are facing." Ms Sturgeon insisted that test and protect is operating "to a very high standard", going on to compare it to the test and trace system in England. DON'T MISS
Boris Johnson explodes at SNP's repeated furlough demands [VIDEO]
Sturgeon accused of 'distracting' from 'scandals' as MSP exposes SNP [EXCLUSIVE]
SNP explodes at Boris Johnson in row over Brexit deal 'power grab' [INSIGHT]
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