thedailyexpress--2020-12-02--Brexit revenge as Boris strips back Supreme Court power after Remainer sabotage attempts

Last September Boris Johnson announced he was dissolving Parliament for five weeks in the build-up to the then-Brexit deadline of October 31 .
Prominent Remainers including campaigner Gina Miller challenged the decision in the Supreme Court .
In what was described by Jacob Rees-Mogg as a `` constitutional coup '' , the court ruled in favour of the Remainers ' appeal and said it was unlawful to stop MPs carrying out their duties in the House of Commons .
At the time a No10 source accused the Supreme Court of `` extending its reach to political matters '' and of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Now , the Prime Minister is set to get his revenge by passing legislation to curtail the court 's role in ruling on his power to dissolve Parliament .
The Government has today published its draft Bill to abolish the Fixed-Term Parliaments Act , which states that a general election must be held at five-year intervals .
READ MORE ON OUR BREXIT LIVE BLOG Under the Fixed Terms Parliament Act the support of at least two-thirds of MPs would be needed to trigger an early election .
The law - introduced by David @ @ @ @ @ @ @ havoc last year when the Commons was in a state of paralysis just two years into its five-year term .
Despite the stalemate in Parliamentary business , votes on calling an early general election failed twice to gain enough support to trigger a vote at the ballot box .
It was only on the third time of asking that MPs supported going to the polls .
The new Fixed Term Parliaments Act 2011 ( Repeal ) Bill seeks to once again return the power to dissolve Parliament for an election to the Prime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
READ MORE : SNP MP stunned over Scotland post-Brexit trade future in Commons row The new legislation would mean Mr Johnson could call an election at any point over the maximum five-year parliamentary term , at a time when he believes he is most likely to win .
However , one of the clauses of the Bill also seeks to prevent the Supreme Court from ruling on the legality of any such dissolution .
The Bill would make ruling on the Prime Minister 's decision to dissolve Parliament `` not justiciable '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he 's wildly misjudged Boris on Brexit [ WARNING ] Brexit Britain takes back control of borders as new visa scheme opens [ UPDATE ] Brexit New Year will see UK stand on its own feet , says MICHAEL GOVE [ COMMENT ] The power to open , dissolve and prorogue Parliament officially lies with the Queen but is transferred to the Prime Minister through royal prerogative .
Last year the Supreme Court ruled that while the Queen 's prorogation of Parliament itself was not illegal , Mr Johnson 's advice to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Court said in its ruling : `` The decision to advise Her Majesty to prorogue Parliament was unlawful because it had the effect of frustrating or preventing the ability of Parliament to carry out its constitutional functions without reasonable justification . ''
Referencing Ms Miller 's court appeal last year directly , the Government says it is hoping the Bill will `` clarify '' that Supreme Court can have no role in determining the `` limits or extent '' of the Prime Minister 's ability to dissolve Parliament , including on the advice @ @ @ @ @

Queen's Speech: 'Fixed-term Parliaments Act will be repealed'
Last September Boris Johnson announced he was dissolving Parliament for five weeks in the build-up to the then-Brexit deadline of October 31. Prominent Remainers including campaigner Gina Miller challenged the decision in the Supreme Court.
In what was described by Jacob Rees-Mogg as a "constitutional coup", the court ruled in favour of the Remainers' appeal and said it was unlawful to stop MPs carrying out their duties in the House of Commons. At the time a No10 source accused the Supreme Court of "extending its reach to political matters" and of making a "serious mistake". Now, the Prime Minister is set to get his revenge by passing legislation to curtail the court's role in ruling on his power to dissolve Parliament. The Government has today published its draft Bill to abolish the Fixed-Term Parliaments Act, which states that a general election must be held at five-year intervals. READ MORE ON OUR BREXIT LIVE BLOG
Boris Johnson is getting his revenge in the Fixed Terms Parliament Act (Repeal) Bill
Under the Fixed Terms Parliament Act the support of at least two-thirds of MPs would be needed to trigger an early election. The law - introduced by David Cameron and the coalition Government - caused havoc last year when the Commons was in a state of paralysis just two years into its five-year term. Despite the stalemate in Parliamentary business, votes on calling an early general election failed twice to gain enough support to trigger a vote at the ballot box. It was only on the third time of asking that MPs supported going to the polls. The new Fixed Term Parliaments Act 2011 (Repeal) Bill seeks to once again return the power to dissolve Parliament for an election to the Prime Minister and not require MPs' consent. READ MORE: SNP MP stunned over Scotland post-Brexit trade future in Commons row
David Cameron and Nick Clegg introduced the Fixed Term Parliaments Act in in 2011
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Boris Johnson is getting his revenge on Remainers such as Gina Miller
The power to open, dissolve and prorogue Parliament officially lies with the Queen but is transferred to the Prime Minister through royal prerogative. Last year the Supreme Court ruled that while the Queen's prorogation of Parliament itself was not illegal, Mr Johnson's advice to the monarch broke the law. The Supreme Court said in its ruling: "The decision to advise Her Majesty to prorogue Parliament was unlawful because it had the effect of frustrating or preventing the ability of Parliament to carry out its constitutional functions without reasonable justification." Referencing Ms Miller's court appeal last year directly, the Government says it is hoping the Bill will "clarify" that Supreme Court can have no role in determining the "limits or extent" of the Prime Minister's ability to dissolve Parliament, including on the advice given to the monarch.
The Supreme Court's Lady Hale read out the ruling that prorogation was unlawful
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thedailyexpress--2020-12-02--Boris caves: UK gives in on Brexit red line, Barnier tells MEPs - 'British have accepted'

Michel Barnier claimed the Prime Minister has accepted that future police and judicial co-operation must be underpinned by the European Convention of Human Rights .
The Brussels diplomat said this has paved the way to finalising terms on a deal that will make it easier for Britain to extradite terrorists and share criminal data with the bloc .
An agreement has been on the verge of completion for longer than a month since Lord Frost first signalled the UK would soften its stance .
Mr Barnier told MEPS last Friday : “ We are almost in agreement on judicial and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accepted the prerequisites that we put down on the European Convention on Human Rights , ” he added , according to the Daily Mail .
“ We can now finalise those points.
” Lord Frost , the Prime Minister 's lead negotiator with Brussels , has previously told the House of Lords the challenge was how to include a commitment to the ECHR in the legal text .
Britain has previously rejected EU demands to implement a commitment to retain membership of the ECHR into domestic law as the price for the internal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ international agreement drawn up by the Council of Europe and enforced by the Strasbourg-based European Court of Human Rights .
A spokesman for the UK Government said : `` The UK remains committed to the ECHR – we have been clear on that time and time again , including in Parliament .
`` We agree that co-operation with the EU should be based on our shared values of respect for fundamental rights and for the rule of law .
`` The UK 's approach to these issues in the context of law enforcement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreements in this area . ''
MUST READ : Brexit LIVE : German MEP breaks cover to admit EU no deal panic Conservative politicians have often opposed the UK ’ s participation in the ECHR .
Mr Johnson ’ s former top aide , Dominic Cummings , has also previously criticised the Strasbourg-based human rights court .
It is understood UK and EU negotiators are exploring a “ guillotine ” clause that allows either side to suspend or terminate the security agreement if there are serious concerns over human rights or rule of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson ‘ takes back control ’ as EU trade talks go to the wire [ EXCLUSIVE ] France accuses UK of not negotiating seriously in Brexit threat [ INSIGHT ] Brexit : Europe 's car industry warns of 'double whammy crisis ' [ ANALYSIS ]

Brexit: Boris Johnson is 'very close to selling out' says Farage
Michel Barnier claimed the Prime Minister has accepted that future police and judicial co-operation must be underpinned by the European Convention of Human Rights. The Brussels diplomat said this has paved the way to finalising terms on a deal that will make it easier for Britain to extradite terrorists and share criminal data with the bloc. An agreement has been on the verge of completion for longer than a month since Lord Frost first signalled the UK would soften its stance.
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Mr Barnier told MEPS last Friday: “We are almost in agreement on judicial and police co-operation.” “The British have accepted the prerequisites that we put down on the European Convention on Human Rights,” he added, according to the Daily Mail. “We can now finalise those points.”
Michel Barnier claims Boris Johnson has accepted European human rights rules in Brexit trade talks
Michel Barnier is the EU's chief Brexit negotiator
Lord Frost, the Prime Minister's lead negotiator with Brussels, has previously told the House of Lords the challenge was how to include a commitment to the ECHR in the legal text. Britain has previously rejected EU demands to implement a commitment to retain membership of the ECHR into domestic law as the price for the internal security pact. The ECHR is an international agreement drawn up by the Council of Europe and enforced by the Strasbourg-based European Court of Human Rights.
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Lord Frost and his negotiating team during a recent round of talks in Brussels
A spokesman for the UK Government said: "The UK remains committed to the ECHR – we have been clear on that time and time again, including in Parliament. "We agree that co-operation with the EU should be based on our shared values of respect for fundamental rights and for the rule of law. "The UK's approach to these issues in the context of law enforcement is based on precedent for EU third-country agreements in this area." MUST READ: Brexit LIVE: German MEP breaks cover to admit EU no deal panic
What needs to be done to get a Brexit trade and security deal over the line
Michael Gove: Businesses 'should prepare with or without deal'


thedailyexpress--2020-12-02--Need UK's help! SNP admits global trade mission plans RELY on UK embassies

Scottish Development International ( SDI ) offices have been set up in countries around the world in a bid to boost Scotland ’ s worldwide presence .
This is alongside the huge amount of work done to promote Scotland as part of the UK by Foreign Office diplomats and civil servants .
Scotland ’ s trade minister Ivan McKee said SDI bases have been opened in 38 countries in North America , the Far East , India , Australia , Africa , the Middle East and Europe , but added : “ Of these , 32 share premises or are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The SDI has a presence in cities including Calgary , Toronto , Mexico City , Boston , Chicago , Houston , San Jose , Melbourne , Beijing , Guangzhou and Hong Kong .
It comes after Dean Lockhart , Scottish Conservatives Constitution spokesperson asked a parliamentary question which said : “ How many Scottish Development International ( SDI ) offices there are , broken down by location , and how many share premises with or are sited at ( a ) British embassies or consulates and ( b ) the offices of UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Mr Lockhart said : “ It is clear that without the strength and resources of the UK Government , the SNP Government would struggle to establish any form of international trade presence .
“ With the UK Government providing premises and other support for four out of five SNP trade offices , SNP ministers should wholeheartedly welcome this support.
” The SNP has also demanded Holyrood should have “ unfettered and unconditional access ” to the UK Government ’ s diplomatic and consular networks to be able to promote their own agendas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit and climate change .
As a part of a submission to the UK Government ’ s Integrated Review of Security , Defence , Development and Foreign Policy , Scottish officials led by Ms Sturgeon proposed Scotland should be granted a right to use embassies and other official UK facilities abroad .
It also emerged this month Ms Sturgeon ’ s administration was looking at opening Scottish `` consulates '' in every EU state .
READ MORE : Sturgeon and SNP promise to hold their OWN Brexit talks with Barnier But SNP MP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ office inside the British Embassy in Washington DC and seek to open its own office so Scotland is “ promoting a different line from the UK.
” He said the process of increasing standalone Scottish representation abroad should be “ ramped up ” .
He added : “ Scottish Government representation abroad needs to be ramped up and the proposals are welcome .
“ They are necessary anyway irrespective of the UK position on a second referendum .
DO N'T MISS : Sturgeon blow : Sir John Curtice warns SNP independence far from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Scotland republic vote and demands Queen funding [ REVEAL ] Nicola Sturgeon branded 'reckless and irresponsible ' [ LATEST ] “ They ’ re needed to represent the state in all its interests and that will include actions post any refusal.
” A Scottish Government spokesman said that SDI and Government staff worked hard to promote the nation ’ s interests abroad .
They added : “ It is entirely right that the FCDO supports all this important overseas work .
“ We keep all our overseas office locations under review to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , outward-facing Scotland .
”

Nicola Sturgeon tells EU 'we will return as an independent state'
Scottish Development International (SDI) offices have opened in countries around the world in a bid to boost Scotland’s worldwide presence. This strategy is being undertaken alongside work done to promote Scotland as part of the UK by Foreign Office diplomats and civil servants.
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Scotland’s trade minister Ivan McKee said SDI bases have been opened in 38 countries in North America, the Far East, India, Australia, Africa, the Middle East and Europe, but added: “Of these, 32 share premises or are sited at British embassies or consulates.”
The SDI has a presence in cities including Calgary, Toronto, Mexico City, Boston, Chicago, Houston, San Jose, Melbourne, Beijing, Guangzhou and Hong Kong.
It comes after Dean Lockhart, Scottish Conservatives Constitution spokesperson asked a parliamentary question which said: “How many Scottish Development International (SDI) offices there are, broken down by location, and how many share premises with or are sited at (a) British embassies or consulates and (b) the offices of UK Government agencies?”
Following the response, Mr Lockhart said: “It is clear that without the strength and resources of the UK Government, the SNP Government would struggle to establish any form of international trade presence.
Mr MacAskill has called for Scottish standalone presentation to be ''ramped up''
British Embassy in Washington
“With the UK Government providing premises and other support for four out of five SNP trade offices, SNP ministers should wholeheartedly welcome this support.”
The SNP has also demanded Holyrood should have “unfettered and unconditional access” to the UK Government’s diplomatic and consular networks to be able to promote their own agendas on key issues such as trade, Brexit and climate change.
As a part of a submission to the UK Government’s Integrated Review of Security, Defence, Development and Foreign Policy, Scottish officials led by Ms Sturgeon proposed Scotland should be granted a right to use embassies and other official UK facilities abroad.
It also emerged this month Ms Sturgeon’s administration was looking at opening Scottish "consulates" in every EU state. READ MORE: Sturgeon and SNP promise to hold their OWN Brexit talks with Barnier
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The SNP has said that a second referendum could be held after May's election next year
Michael Russell


thedailyexpress--2020-12-01--Barnier orders EU 27 to urgent early-morning Brexit briefing TODAY as talks on brink

The EU ’ s chief Brexit negotiator has been in London this week for crucial talks ahead of the end of the transition period on December 31 .
But fishing rights and state aid remain sticking points within negotiations .
And now , two diplomatic sources revealed Mr Barnier will hold an urgent meeting on Wednesday morning to discuss the latest in trade talks .
With fears growing over a no deal outcome Micheal Gove said an agreement was close .
But he warned the EU would have to live up to its responsibilities .
When asked if a no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ admit , he told ITV today : `` It 's certainly the case that there is a chance that we may not get a negotiated outcome .
`` That 's why it 's important business prepares for all eventualities , but I very much want a deal and I believe that we can secure one.
” Mr Gove repeated an earlier prediction of a 66 percent probability of a deal with the EU .
This comes after a French official said Britain needs to clarify its positions and “ really negotiate ” and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ substandard deal ” .
The UK formally left the European Union in January this year and negotiations have been ongoing , with neither side budging on fishing rights or state aid .
READ MORE : Barnier faces EU mutiny amid fears he could cave to get Brexit deal Under the controversial Commons Fisheries Policy ( CFP ) , all member states are given access to EU waters via quotas .
As the UK has a large coastal area , critics have often argued the system is unfair .
Earlier today , French @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rights in UK waters is an “ essential condition ” .
He said : “ The preservation of our fishermen in British waters is an essential condition .
DO N'T MISS Ireland fishing panic : No deal disaster looms for Dublin [ REVEAL ] Sturgeon left mad as EU figures dismiss dream of joining bloc [ INSIGHT ] 'How DARE the EU dictate our waters !
Furious Jeremy Vine caller erupts [ COMMENT ] “ France will not allow an agreement that does not respect our interests.
” Last week , Mr Barnier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ percent of fish caught in UK waters by European boats back to Britain under a deal .
The EU 's offer would be worth just an estimated £105million ( €117million ) .
But the ultimatum by Mr Barnier was attacked by Micheal Gove who claimed it was unacceptable for Britain .
Mr Gove told Sky News there are three things which remain as sticking points in negations .
He said : `` The EU still wants to take the lion ’ s share of the fish in our waters which is just not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The second thing is that the EU still wants us to be tied to their way of doing things .

Brexit: Michel Barnier leaves hotel in London for talks
The EU’s chief Brexit negotiator has been in London this week for crucial talks ahead of the end of the transition period on December 31. But fishing rights and state aid remain sticking points within negotiations.
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And now, two diplomatic sources revealed Mr Barnier will hold an urgent meeting on Wednesday morning to discuss the latest in trade talks. With fears growing over a no deal outcome Micheal Gove said an agreement was close. But he warned the EU would have to live up to its responsibilities. When asked if a no deal scenario was closer than anyone will admit, he told ITV today: "It's certainly the case that there is a chance that we may not get a negotiated outcome.
EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier
UK Brexit negotiator David Frost
"That's why it's important business prepares for all eventualities, but I very much want a deal and I believe that we can secure one.” Mr Gove repeated an earlier prediction of a 66 percent probability of a deal with the EU. This comes after a French official said Britain needs to clarify its positions and “really negotiate” and warned the EU would not accept a “substandard deal”. The UK formally left the European Union in January this year and negotiations have been ongoing, with neither side budging on fishing rights or state aid. READ MORE: Barnier faces EU mutiny amid fears he could cave to get Brexit deal
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Prime Minister Boris Johnson
Where would a no deal Brexit hit the most?
“France will not allow an agreement that does not respect our interests.” Last week, Mr Barnier offered to give between 15 and 18 percent of fish caught in UK waters by European boats back to Britain under a deal. The EU's offer would be worth just an estimated £105million (€117million). But the ultimatum by Mr Barnier was attacked by Micheal Gove who claimed it was unacceptable for Britain.
EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier
Mr Gove told Sky News there are three things which remain as sticking points in negations. He said: "The EU still wants to take the lion’s share of the fish in our waters which is just not fair given we are leaving the EU. "The second thing is that the EU still wants us to be tied to their way of doing things.
Fishing remains one of the key issues in talks


thedailyexpress--2020-12-01--Keir Starmer CRISIS: Labour leader’s satisfaction rating PLUNGES - halves in four months

The Labour leader replaced Mr Corbyn in April , four months after the party suffered one of its heaviest defeats at the ballot box in modern history .
Sir Keir has worked hard to rebuild Labour ’ s tarnished reputation and broken relationship with Jewish voters .
But many in his party believe his approach to handling problems has been too heavy-handed .
Research conducted by Ipsos MORI for The Times showed there were high hopes for Sir Keir as his leadership kicked off to a strong start compared to other party leaders in recent years .
An opinion poll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ showed he enjoyed a +30 satisfaction rating .
This was higher than the approval ratings given to his predecessors Tony Blair , Neil Kinnock and Mr Corbyn months into their tenures .
But satisfaction with Sir Keir has dropped significantly since the first opinions were taken into account in the summer .
Research carried out in November showed his ratings have halved in just four months , putting him at +15 .
Sir Keir came under fire from the left of Labour after kicking Rebecca Long-Bailey out of the shadow cabinet .
READ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ party set to abstain from Commons vote He sacked her from her role of shadow education secretary after he said she shared an article containing an anti-Semitic conspiracy theory .
Following the decision , Sir Keir was accused of overreacting by many on the left of Labour .
Tensions between Corbynistas in the party and the group ’ s new leader reached a high when Mr Corbyn was suspended from Labour over his response to a damning report by the Equalities and Human Rights Commission into anti-Semitism in the opposition party .
DO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'party politics ' pointless vote plan [ ANALYSIS ] Brexit in name only fears as PM 'likely to cave in to EU demands ' [ INSIGHT ] 'What 's point of Labour ? '
Keir Starmer accused of 'moral cowardice ' [ VIDEO ] Mr Corbyn said that while anti-Semitism was “ absolutely abhorrent ” he believed the scale of the problem within Labour “ was also dramatically overstated for political reasons by our opponents inside and outside the party , as well as by much of the media . ''
Weeks after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he had his membership reinstated .
However , Sir Keir announced that his predecessor would not sit on the Labour benches , but instead as an independent MP .
This week Sir Keir has been on the receiving end of more criticism over his response to a vote on Boris Johnson 's new coronavirus tier plan .
Downing Street accused the opposition leader of “ playing politics ” in the middle of the pandemic after it emerged Labour would abstain from a crunch vote on Tuesday night .
Sir Keir ripped apart the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saying it was “ full of holes ” .

Keir Starmer to let Tories 'fight it out' in tier vote says expert
The Labour leader replaced Mr Corbyn in April, four months after the party suffered one of its heaviest defeats at the ballot box in modern history. Sir Keir has worked hard to rebuild Labour’s tarnished reputation and broken relationship with Jewish voters.
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But many in his party believe his approach to handling problems has been too heavy-handed. Research conducted by Ipsos MORI for The Times showed there were high hopes for Sir Keir as his leadership kicked off to a strong start compared to other party leaders in recent years. An opinion poll taken just three months into his leadership showed he enjoyed a +30 satisfaction rating. This was higher than the approval ratings given to his predecessors Tony Blair, Neil Kinnock and Mr Corbyn months into their tenures.
Keir Starmer's ratings have plummeted
Sir Keir took over the leadership in April
But satisfaction with Sir Keir has dropped significantly since the first opinions were taken into account in the summer. Research carried out in November showed his ratings have halved in just four months, putting him at +15. Sir Keir came under fire from the left of Labour after kicking Rebecca Long-Bailey out of the shadow cabinet.
READ MORE: Labour branded 'cowardly' as party set to abstain from Commons vote
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Jeremy Corbyn will sit as an independent MP
Jeremy Corbyn was suspended from Labour
Mr Corbyn said that while anti-Semitism was “absolutely abhorrent” he believed the scale of the problem within Labour “was also dramatically overstated for political reasons by our opponents inside and outside the party, as well as by much of the media." Weeks after he was swiftly suspended from the party he had his membership reinstated. However, Sir Keir announced that his predecessor would not sit on the Labour benches, but instead as an independent MP.
Rishi Sunak hits back at Corbyn over comments on civil service
This week Sir Keir has been on the receiving end of more criticism over his response to a vote on Boris Johnson's new coronavirus tier plan. Downing Street accused the opposition leader of “playing politics” in the middle of the pandemic after it emerged Labour would abstain from a crunch vote on Tuesday night. Sir Keir ripped apart the Prime Minister’s tier system, saying it was “full of holes”.
Sir Keir's opinion ratings have fallen since the summer


thedailyexpress--2020-12-01--Boris suffers BIGGEST rebellion since election as new Covid tier system passes in Commons

Boris Johnson 's three-tier system will come into place after midnight despite the Prime Minister suffering his biggest backbench rebellion since last December 's general election .
In nearly six hours of debate over the controversial measures , senior Tories lined up one after the other to express their anger and frustration at the Government 's handling of the coronavirus crisis .
Just 291 MPs out of the 650 voted in support of the measures .
However , the tiers will still come into force after Keir Starmer urged Labour to abstain on the vote , saving the Prime Minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MPs voted against the tiered system and 16 abstained - a number large enough to wipe out the Conservatives ' majority , meaning the Government would have been defeated if Labour and the other opposition parties voted against the plan .
Scores of Tories attacked the Prime Minister 's tiered system , warning it would have devastating consequences for businesses .
The new tiers are tougher than the system implemented prior to the national lockdown , with pubs and restaurants in Tier 2 can only serve alcohol with a `` substantial meal '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ close completely except for takeaways .
READ MORE : Labour branded 'cowardly ' as party to abstain from Commons vote A total of 99 percent of England will be placed under the two strictest tiers from tomorrow .
Sir Graham Brady , chairman of the influential backbench 1922 Committee of Tories and an MP in Tier 3 Greater Manchester , said : `` If Government is to take away fundamental liberties of the people whom we represent , they must demonstrate beyond question that they 're acting in a way that is both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I believe the Government has failed to make that compelling case . ''
Ex-Cabinet minister Andrea Leadsom said : `` I ca n't and wo n't inflict deliberate harm on my constituency unless I can see for myself that to do nothing would be worse . ''
Meanwhile , Wycombe MP Steve Baker said : `` Here we stand at a profoundly dangerous moment , heading into infringements on our liberties around vaccination and testing which we would never normally tolerate and so therefore I find with huge reluctance , I 'm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to send a message to the Government . ''
The Prime Minister was desperate to reduce the size of his rebellion and has made a number of concessions to rebels in recent days in the hope to persuade them to back his plan .
READ MORE : Families can visit care home residents indoors from TOMORROW He announced the coronavirus restrictions would have a sunset clause added to them , meaning they would cease to exist after February 2 , 2021 , unless MPs explicitly endorsed extending the measures .
He also announced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tier rules would receive £1,000 from the Government to help see them through .
Mr Johnson held a zoom call with backbenchers at 6pm this evening ahead of the Commons vote in a last-minute bid to convince them to change their minds .
So desperate was he to reduce the size of the revolt he was still pleading in person in Parliament with MPs sceptical of his plan just seconds before they cast their vote .
Making his case for the new coronavirus tiers in the House of Commons this afternoon , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remains under pressure , with hospitals in three regions – the South West , the North East and Yorkshire - all treating more Covid patients now than at the peak of the first wave .
`` We can ’ t simply allow the current restrictions to expire for the reason he gives with no replacement whatever .
DO N'T MISS : How did your MP vote in lockdown tiers ?
[ INSIGHT ] 'People have had enough ! '
Leadsom erupts at Boris 's lockdown tiers [ VIDEO ] When does current lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
[ EXPLAINED ] '' With the spread of the epidemic varying across the country , there remains a compelling case for regional tiers in England and indeed a compelling necessity for regional tiers . ''
He added the new restrictions did not amount to `` another lockdown '' and people in England would be `` free to leave their homes for any reason '' .
The Prime Minister has promised MPs that which tier each area of England is in will be reviewed on a fortnightly basis and said there was a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3 being moved into Tier 2 before Christmas .
Summarising the debate for the Government just before MPs voted on the tiered system , Health Secretary made an emotional plea as he explained the tiers were needed to keep suppressing the virus and save lives .
Mr Hancock 's voice cracked with emotion as he told the House how he had lost a close family member to the virus .

Tier System: England to enter tiers as Commons vote for plan
Boris Johnson's three-tier system will come into place after midnight despite the Prime Minister suffering his biggest backbench rebellion since last December's general election. In nearly six hours of debate over the controversial measures, senior Tories lined up one after the other to express their anger and frustration at the Government's handling of the coronavirus crisis.
Just 291 MPs out of the 650 voted in support of the measures. However, the tiers will still come into force after Keir Starmer urged Labour to abstain on the vote, saving the Prime Minister from a humiliating defeat. Fifty-five Conservative MPs voted against the tiered system and 16 abstained - a number large enough to wipe out the Conservatives' majority, meaning the Government would have been defeated if Labour and the other opposition parties voted against the plan. Scores of Tories attacked the Prime Minister's tiered system, warning it would have devastating consequences for businesses. The new tiers are tougher than the system implemented prior to the national lockdown, with pubs and restaurants in Tier 2 can only serve alcohol with a "substantial meal", while in Tier 3 eateries must close completely except for takeaways. READ MORE: Labour branded 'cowardly' as party to abstain from Commons vote
Coronavirus tiers will come into place after midnight tonight
Boris Johnson has placed regions in England under three tiers
A total of 99 percent of England will be placed under the two strictest tiers from tomorrow. Sir Graham Brady, chairman of the influential backbench 1922 Committee of Tories and an MP in Tier 3 Greater Manchester, said: "If Government is to take away fundamental liberties of the people whom we represent, they must demonstrate beyond question that they're acting in a way that is both proportionate and absolutely necessary. "Today, I believe the Government has failed to make that compelling case." Ex-Cabinet minister Andrea Leadsom said: "I can't and won't inflict deliberate harm on my constituency unless I can see for myself that to do nothing would be worse." Meanwhile, Wycombe MP Steve Baker said: "Here we stand at a profoundly dangerous moment, heading into infringements on our liberties around vaccination and testing which we would never normally tolerate and so therefore I find with huge reluctance, I'm going to have to vote no tonight to send a message to the Government." The Prime Minister was desperate to reduce the size of his rebellion and has made a number of concessions to rebels in recent days in the hope to persuade them to back his plan. READ MORE: Families can visit care home residents indoors from TOMORROW
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Senior Tory backbencher Graham Brady said the Prime Minister failed to make a 'compelling case' for the tiers
Andrea Leadsom said said she would not inflict harm on her constituents by backing the system
Steve Baker said it was with ;huge reluctancy' that he voted against the measures
He announced the coronavirus restrictions would have a sunset clause added to them, meaning they would cease to exist after February 2, 2021, unless MPs explicitly endorsed extending the measures. He also announced pubs forced to shut because of the tier rules would receive £1,000 from the Government to help see them through. Mr Johnson held a zoom call with backbenchers at 6pm this evening ahead of the Commons vote in a last-minute bid to convince them to change their minds. So desperate was he to reduce the size of the revolt he was still pleading in person in Parliament with MPs sceptical of his plan just seconds before they cast their vote. Making his case for the new coronavirus tiers in the House of Commons this afternoon, the Prime Minister said: "Our NHS remains under pressure, with hospitals in three regions – the South West, the North East and Yorkshire - all treating more Covid patients now than at the peak of the first wave. "We can’t simply allow the current restrictions to expire for the reason he gives with no replacement whatever. DON'T MISS:
How did your MP vote in lockdown tiers? [INSIGHT]
'People have had enough!' Leadsom erupts at Boris's lockdown tiers [VIDEO]
When does current lockdown end? When do tier restrictions start? [EXPLAINED]
A total of 99 percent of England will be under the tougher coronavirus tiers
Boris Johnson pleaded with MPs to give their backing to his coronavirus plan
"With the spread of the epidemic varying across the country, there remains a compelling case for regional tiers in England and indeed a compelling necessity for regional tiers." He added the new restrictions did not amount to "another lockdown" and people in England would be "free to leave their homes for any reason". The Prime Minister has promised MPs that which tier each area of England is in will be reviewed on a fortnightly basis and said there was a realistic chance of some places in Tier 3 being moved into Tier 2 before Christmas. Summarising the debate for the Government just before MPs voted on the tiered system, Health Secretary made an emotional plea as he explained the tiers were needed to keep suppressing the virus and save lives. Mr Hancock's voice cracked with emotion as he told the House how he had lost a close family member to the virus.
Matt Hancock delivers emotional speech at tier system debate
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-12-01--How did your MP vote in lockdown tiers?

How did your MP vote in lockdown tiers?

MPs across the country today had their say on the new coronavirus tiers which will come into effect at 12.01am on Wednesday , December 2 .
More than 55 million people will be in the toughest two tiers if plans are approved by MPs .
But how did your MP vote in the coronavirus lockdown tiers ?
England will begin the new tier system on December 2 .
The new tiers were put to a vote in the House of Commons on Tuesday .
The vote passed with 291 votes in support of the tiers against 78 votes against , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The new tier system will see 23 million people enter Tier 3 , 32m in Tier 2 and 700,000 in Tier 1 .
READ MORE : Can I meet a friend in a cafe in Tier 2 ?
• 'People have had enough ! '
Leadsom erupts at Boris 's lockdown tiers How did your MP vote in lockdown tiers on Tuesday ?
The Government has a majority in the Commons , meaning there are 85 more Tory MPs than all the other parties together .
Speaking to the House of Commons ahead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hancock shared a personal story of loss about his step-grandfather who died on November 19 in Liverpool after catching Covid-19 .
Mr Hancock said : `` In my family , as in so many others , we 've lost a loving husband , a father , a grandfather to this awful disease . ''
You can find the details of how your MP voted on a range of recent votes here .
You can also find a list of every MP who voted for , against and abstained from voting today here .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ defeat the tier system was a near-certain impossibility , especially given those MPs intending to abstain .
The figures from the vote show a sizeable revolt from Tory MPs .
In total there are 364 elected Conservative MPs compared to 200 Labour Party MPs .
Around 56 Tory MPs voted against the Government , making it the biggest Conservative rebellion of this Government .
This surpassed the previous biggest which was 44 Tories voting against the 10pm pubs curfew motion .
There were 16 Labour MPs who defied the whip and voted against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ does current lockdown end ?
When do tier restrictions start ?
[ INSIGHT ] Boris Johnson pleads for Tory backing on Covid tiers bill [ EXPLAINER ] What time is lockdown tier vote tonight ?
[ VIDEO ] The motion was always likely to pass as the Labour Party and the SNP announced their intention to abstain from the vote .
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said he recognised restrictions needed to continue , but he was `` far from convinced '' the new system will work , and economic help for firms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But Sir Keir said the Labour Party would abstain as it is “ not in the national interest ” for the party to join Tory rebels to vote against the new tier system .
The SNP said it would abstain as the measures would only affect England .
However , it was not certain all MPs from these parties would comply with this mandate Closing the debate on Tuesday , the Health Secretary added : `` Voting against these restrictions tonight is , in fact , a vote to allow the entire system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ member of this House wants to control the virus and no-one wants to see the NHS overwhelmed .
`` So support the motion to protect the NHS , support the motion to back the nurses that we all clapped in the spring , support the motion to back the doctors working on our wards every night , support the motion to back the teachers who are working so hard to keep our schools open , and back the care workers looking after the most vulnerable .
`` And support this motion to back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ national lockdown , because that would be the only alternative .
`` By voting for this motion you are supporting all these people and the public who want to see us act together . ''
On Tuesday , Prime Minister Boris Johnson said : “ I beg to move that these Regulations now be approved .
“ And I want to begin by telling the House that I was hugely encouraged by a visit I paid only yesterday to a vaccine plant in North Wales , where I saw for myself the vials @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK Government that could turn the tide of our struggle against Covid , not just in this country but around the world .
“ It is the protection of those vaccines that could get our economies moving again and allow us to reclaim our lives.
” He added : “ So we can ’ t simply allow the current restrictions to expire for the reason he gives with no replacement whatever .
“ With the spread of the epidemic varying across the country , there remains a compelling case for regional tiers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compelling necessity for regional tiers .
“ But I hope the House is clear what I am not asking for today .
“ This is not another lockdown , nor is this the renewal of the existing measures in England .
”

Tier system: Charles Walker urges Johnson to listen to elderly
MPs across the country had their say on the new coronavirus tiers in Parliament last night, ahead of the rules coming into effect at 12.01am on Wednesday, December 2. More than 55 million people will be in the toughest two tiers if plans are approved by MPs. But how did your MP vote in the coronavirus lockdown tiers?
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England will begin the new tier system on December 2. The new tiers were put to a vote in the House of Commons on Tuesday. The vote passed with 291 votes in support of the tiers against 78 votes against, representing a majority of 213 votes. The new tier system will see 23 million people enter Tier 3, 32m in Tier 2 and 700,000 in Tier 1. READ MORE: Can I meet a friend in a cafe in Tier 2?
How did your MP vote in lockdown tiers: How did your MP vote in lockdown tiers?
How did your MP vote in lockdown tiers: England's three-tier system shown on a map
READ MORE 'People have had enough!' Leadsom erupts at Boris's lockdown tiers How did your MP vote in lockdown tiers on Tuesday? The Government has a majority in the Commons, meaning there are 85 more Tory MPs than all the other parties together. Speaking to the House of Commons ahead of the vote, Health Secretary Matt Hancock shared a personal story of loss about his step-grandfather who died on November 19 in Liverpool after catching Covid-19. Mr Hancock said: "In my family, as in so many others, we've lost a loving husband, a father, a grandfather to this awful disease." You can find the details of how your MP voted on a range of recent votes here. You can also find a list of every MP who voted for, against and abstained from voting here.
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How did your MP vote in lockdown tiers: Matt Hancock speaking from the House of Commons on Tuesday
A rebellion at the scale needed to defeat the tier system was a near-certain impossibility, especially given those MPs intending to abstain. The figures from the vote show a sizeable revolt from Tory MPs. In total there are 364 elected Conservative MPs compared to 200 Labour Party MPs. Around 56 Tory MPs voted against the Government, making it the biggest Conservative rebellion of this Government. This surpassed the previous biggest which was 44 Tories voting against the 10pm pubs curfew motion. There were 16 Labour MPs who defied the whip and voted against the Government. DON'T MISS
When does current lockdown end? When do tier restrictions start? [INSIGHT]
Boris Johnson pleads for Tory backing on Covid tiers bill [EXPLAINER]
What time is lockdown tier vote tonight? [VIDEO]
How did your MP vote in lockdown tiers: The Labour Party and SNP used the whip to tell MPs to abstain from the vote
READ MORE Can pubs open on Christmas Day? The motion was always likely to pass as the Labour Party and the SNP announced their intention to abstain from the vote. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said he recognised restrictions needed to continue, but he was "far from convinced" the new system will work, and economic help for firms was "nowhere near sufficient". But Sir Keir said the Labour Party would abstain as it is “not in the national interest” for the party to join Tory rebels to vote against the new tier system. The SNP said it would abstain as the measures would only affect England. However, it was not certain all MPs from these parties would comply with this mandate
How did your MP vote in lockdown tiers: The vote revealed 291 MPs voted in support of the new tiers
Closing the debate on Tuesday, the Health Secretary added: "Voting against these restrictions tonight is, in fact, a vote to allow the entire system to lapse tomorrow and I know every member of this House wants to control the virus and no-one wants to see the NHS overwhelmed. "So support the motion to protect the NHS, support the motion to back the nurses that we all clapped in the spring, support the motion to back the doctors working on our wards every night, support the motion to back the teachers who are working so hard to keep our schools open, and back the care workers looking after the most vulnerable. "And support this motion to back the businesses that don't want another national lockdown, because that would be the only alternative. "By voting for this motion you are supporting all these people and the public who want to see us act together."


thedailyexpress--2020-12-02--Boris Johnson’s Brexit SELL OUT! Barnier gloats to EU – UK wants 60% of fish in own waters

The PM is now asking for a return of up to 60 percent of EU catches in UK waters , down from 80 percent , Mr Barnier is believed to have told ambassadors in a meeting this morning.This would mark a major climb-down on an issue both sides have stubbornly refused to budge on .
A senior EU diplomat told the Guardian : “ Barnier said the coming hours were going to be decisive to which the response was : ‘ what ’ s the rush ?
’ ” “ Ambassadors for every country bordering the UK – 11 all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ level playing field and suggested that he was at the edge of his negotiating mandate . ''
Mr Barnier is said to be under pressure to pin down a deal over fishing from France and its president Emmanuel Macron .
Another insider said : “ We are quickly approaching a make or break moment in the Brexit talks .
Intensive negotiations are continuing in in London .
As of this morning it is still unclear whether negotiators can bridge the gaps on issues like level playing , governance and fisheries .
“ As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit negotiations , some member states are becoming a bit jittery .
`` So this was mostly an exercise to calm nerves in Paris and elsewhere and to reassure member states that team Barnier will continue to defend core EU interests including on fisheries.
” READ MORE : Brexit LIVE : EU member states order Barnier to 'slow talks down' Talks remain snagged on fishing rights in British waters , ensuring fair competition guarantees and ways to solve future disputes .
The prospect of securing a longer-term deal with the Brussels bloc on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ getting a compromise .
But both sides are yet to find common ground on fishing quotas as the clock ticks down .
A senior EU diplomat said : `` A deal still hangs in the balance . ''
The news comes after Michael Gove , Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster hit out at the EU 's demands over fishing .
He told Sky News : `` The EU still wants to take the lion 's share of the fishing in our waters - which is just not fair given that we are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still want us to be tied to their way of doing things .

Brexit: Expert discusses possible ‘transition’ for fishermen
The Prime Minister is now asking for a return of up to 60 percent of EU catches in UK waters, down from 80 percent, Mr Barnier is believed to have told ambassadors in a meeting this morning. This would mark a major climb-down on an issue both sides have stubbornly refused to budge on.
Trending
A senior EU diplomat told the Guardian: “Barnier said the coming hours were going to be decisive to which the response was: ‘what’s the rush?’” “Ambassadors for every country bordering the UK – 11 all in all – raised concerns on the level playing field and suggested that he was at the edge of his negotiating mandate." Mr Barnier is said to be under pressure to pin down a deal over fishing from France and its president Emmanuel Macron.
Boris Johnson has made a huge fishing U-turn, EU sources have claimed
Brexit talks remain deadlocked over fishing
Another insider said: “We are quickly approaching a make or break moment in the Brexit talks. Intensive negotiations are continuing in London. As of this morning, it is still unclear whether negotiators can bridge the gaps on issues like level playing, governance and fisheries. “As we are entering the endgame of the Brexit negotiations, some member states are becoming a bit jittery. "So this was mostly an exercise to calm nerves in Paris and elsewhere and to reassure member states that team Barnier will continue to defend core EU interests including on fisheries.” READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: EU member states order Barnier to 'slow talks down'
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The PM is now asking for a return of up to 60 percent of EU catches in UK waters, down from 80 percent
Talks remain snagged on fishing rights in British waters, ensuring fair competition guarantees and ways to solve future disputes
Both sides are yet to find common ground on fishing quotas as the clock ticks down
The prospect of securing a longer-term deal with the Brussels bloc on sharing the fish catch is important for getting a compromise. But both sides are yet to find common ground on fishing quotas as the clock ticks down. A senior EU diplomat said: "A deal still hangs in the balance."
EU countries most reliant on UK fishing waters
A senior EU diplomat said: "A deal still hangs in the balance." The news comes after Michael Gove, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster hit out at the EU's demands over fishing. He told Sky News: "The EU still wants to take the lion's share of the fishing in our waters - which is just not fair given that we are leaving the EU. "The EU still want us to be tied to their way of doing things.


thedailyexpress--2020-12-02--Blackford told to 'get UK moving again' as Boris rages at SNP chief's 'shameful' attack

The Prime Minister and the SNP 's leader in Westminster clashed over the UK Government 's support measures for the Christmas period .
Mr Johnson told Parliament during Prime Minister 's Questions that Government has not abandoned anyone during the pandemic .
Mr Blackford said : `` I have to say , I do this with regret , that simply is n't good enough .
`` These people need help and I 'm asking the Prime Minister to think very carefully about this .
This has been an abject failure by this UK Government and the Prime Minister has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has U-turned on almost everything else , so why ca n't the Prime Minister and the Chancellor change their minds on their support for these three million people ? ''
He added : `` Will the Prime Minister commit today to a meeting and working with ExcludedUK on a meaningful package of support or is the Prime Minister simply going to abandon these people three weeks before Christmas ? ''
READ MORE : 'It 's the LAW ! '
Hancock hits back at Kay Burley over new Covid rules Mr Johnson replied : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ addition to the support I have already mentioned we have announced nearly £400 million to support vulnerable children and their families through the winter .
`` We have increased universal credit as I just mentioned , we have increased local housing allowance , provided billions more to local authorities to help those who are hard to reach .
`` I may say that the best way to help the self-employed , the economy and this whole country is to get us moving again with the package of measures that the house voted for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ retail to start up again , to allow businesses to start up again . ''
He continued : `` The gentleman for the SNP said it was shameful , we on this side of the house do not think retail is shameful .
`` We want businesses to open up again and that is the nature of the package that was voted for last night .
`` It is a great shame that the right honourable gentlemen opposite me could not bring himself to support it . ''
DO N'T MISS : 'Not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £1k help for pubs 'it 's an insult ' [ REACTION ] Britain ’ s economy will take 'at least TWO years ' to reach pre-Covid19 [ DATA ] Covid vaccine to be distributed by weekend as urgent plan underway [ INSIGHT ] Mr Johnson also outlined the UK Government 's massive investment in mental health support during the Covid crisis .
The Prime Minister said : `` I obviously sympathise very much with those who have taken their lives and their families , and this has been a very tough time for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in mental health support across the country as he knows which flows through in Barnett consequentials obviously to Scotland .
`` We 've put in a huge package of support and he knows this , but I must repeat this for self-employed people across the country , and I know there are hard-to-reach people , but they are also supported with the increases in Universal Credit and the many other means of support that are currently on offer . ''

The Prime Minister and the SNP's leader in Westminster clashed over the UK Government's support measures for the Christmas period. Mr Johnson told Parliament during Prime Minister's Questions that Government has not abandoned anyone during the pandemic.
Trending
Mr Blackford said: "I have to say, I do this with regret, that simply isn't good enough. "These people need help and I'm asking the Prime Minister to think very carefully about this. This has been an abject failure by this UK Government and the Prime Minister has been missing in action. "The Government has U-turned on almost everything else, so why can't the Prime Minister and the Chancellor change their minds on their support for these three million people?" He added: "Will the Prime Minister commit today to a meeting and working with ExcludedUK on a meaningful package of support or is the Prime Minister simply going to abandon these people three weeks before Christmas?" READ MORE: 'It's the LAW!' Hancock hits back at Kay Burley over new Covid rules
Ian Blackford is the leader of the SNP in Westminster
The UK Government's coronavirus three tier system
Mr Johnson replied: "We have abandoned nobody, in addition to the support I have already mentioned we have announced nearly £400 million to support vulnerable children and their families through the winter. "We have increased universal credit as I just mentioned, we have increased local housing allowance, provided billions more to local authorities to help those who are hard to reach. "I may say that the best way to help the self-employed, the economy and this whole country is to get us moving again with the package of measures that the house voted for last night." "To allow retail to start up again, to allow businesses to start up again."
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Boris Johnson has been Prime Minister since July 2019


thedailyexpress--2020-12-02--PMQs LIVE: Boris brutally mocks 'Captain Indecision' Starmer - 'Can't take you seriously!'

The announcement gave Mr Johnson some positive news to boast about in the Commons .
With a realistic end of the pandemic in the UK now in sight , the vaccine helps the Prime Minister shrug off last night 's backbench rebellion over his coronavirus plan .
Mr Johnson saw just 291 MPs vote in favour of his new coronavirus tiers system for England which came into force today , with 55 Tory MPs voting against the system and a further 16 abstaining .
Keir Starmer also left the Prime Minister furious after telling Labour MPs to abstain on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of having `` no credible plan '' and `` no view on the way ahead '' .
The Prime Minister has used PMQs to once again attack his opposite number for failing to support the measures .
He accused the Labour leader of `` dithering '' while the Government gets on with defeating the pandemic .
Using his favourite jibe , he said : `` Captain Hindsight has risen rapidly up the ranks and has become General Indecision . ''
FOLLOW BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES FROM EXPRESS.CO.UK Prime Minister 's Questions has ended @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suspended for three minutes to allow MPs to arrive and leave in a manner safe with Covid restrictions .
Today 's grilling saw Sir Keir Starmer focus on scrutinising the roll out of the new coronavirus vaccine , while the Prime Minister attacked the Labour leader for failing to support the Government in its mission to see an end to the pandemic in the UK .
12.32pm update : Boris urged to commit to 'levelling up ' the whole of the UK , not just focusing on the North of England .
North @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` levelling up '' agenda is sometimes `` only discussed through the prism of the North/South divide '' .
He says parts of his constituency also need investment and support .
The MP asks the Prime Minister to ensure that two sources of funding - the SHared Prosperity Fund and the Levelling Up Fund - are separate entities and will both help provide support to areas across the country .
Responding , Mr Johnson says the funds will be separate and confirms MPs will have a say to ensure those areas that need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's response on mental health provisions has angered the Green Party has well as the SNP .
Green Party MP Catherine Lucas has written on Twitter : `` 'We have abandoned nobody ' claims the PM .
`` Utterly untrue .
More than 3 million self-employed , including limited company directors , have had no support at all during Covid & ministers will not even meet with them .
`` When will this injustice end ?
# PMQs . ''
Mr Blackford is unsatisfied with Mr Johnson 's response on mental health provision @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is n't good enough .
These people need help .
`` This has been an abject failure and the Prime Minister has been missing in action .
`` The Prime Minister has U-turned on almost everything else so why ca n't he and the Chancellor change their minds on support for these people .
`` They have n't just been left behind , they 've been ignored for 9 months . ''
After taking a moment to welcome the news of a vaccine , the SNP 's Ian Blackford has once again returned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pandemic .
He says : `` There are millions who still have n't had a single penny of support from this UK Government .
`` Yesterday I met with Excluded UK , who represent many of these three million citizens .
`` For the last nine months , the excluded have been living without any help , without any hope .
It is now tragically costing lives .
`` Prime Minister they told me something shocking .
They are aware of eight people who have taken their lives in the last 10 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` These people need help .
Will the PM commit to looking again to ensure no one is left behind . ''
The Prime Minister responds saying he `` obviously sympathise very much with those who have taken their lives , and their families '' and that the Government has abandoned nobody during the crisis .
Keir Starmer has asked for the Prime Minister to outline how he plans to ensure job security for those impacted by coronavirus .
Mr Johnson has seized on the demand to attack his opposite number .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ promoting the public interest when it abstained on last night 's vote on the tiered system in England .
He said : `` Mr Speaker , we 're of course supporting every job that we can with a £200billion programme .
`` But I 'd take him a little more seriously , frankly , if he could be bothered to vote on a programme , a moderate programme to keep the virus down and open up the economy .
`` We 're getting on with our programme , as I say , of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tiering measures - in addition to which we are delivering 40 more hospitals and 20,000 more police officers . ''
Returning to his favourite taunt od the Labour leader , he added : `` Captain Hindsight has risen rapidly up the ranks and has become General Indecision .
`` He dithers , we get on with the job . ''
Despite the cordial nature of PMQs so far , Labour 's deputy leader is n't happy .
Angela Raynor said on Twitter : `` Johnson does n't seem to have a plan for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people will be given the vaccine next week , when , where and how ?
`` His track record on PPE , testing and track and trace is one of delays , failure and £bns being given to cronies and private companies .
# PMQs '' 12.10pm update : Boris warns public 'do n't get your hopes up ! '
Sir Keir Starmer points out that just 800,000 doses will be delivered next week , enough to vaccinate less than half a million .
The Labour leader asks how long it will take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff and over 80s will be vaccinated .
Mr Johnson responds : `` I think it is very important that people do not get their hopes up too soon on the speed with which we can roll out this vaccine .
It is beginning next week , we are expecting several million doses before the end of the year .
We will then be rolling it out as fast as we can .
`` But that is why I put so much emphasis on the continuing importance of the tiering system and mass @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these tough winter months .
`` We will need to keep that tough tiering and testing regime in place . ''
12.06pm update : Keir Starmer demands answers on who will get vaccine first The Labour leader has asked for more information on the roll out of the Covid jab .
The Prime Minister says : `` The priority list will be residents in a care home , for older adults and their carers , to stop transmission .
All those 80 years of age and older , frontline health care and social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 75 years of age and over , then all those of 70 years of age and over , all those clinically vulnerable , then a list that I believe represents common sense .
`` This is unquestionably good news and the end of the story , the end of our national struggle against coronavirus and that is why it 's very important that the package of moderately tough measures voted for last night are followed as we continue to beat the virus . ''
12.04pm update : Boris Johnson has said new vaccine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reassured Tory MP Chris Green that the new Covid vaccine will not be mandatory , although he recommends everyone get it when eligible .
He said : `` I strongly urge people to take up the vaccine but it is no part of our culture of ambition in this country to make it mandatory .
That 's not how we do things . ''
We 're underway !
The Prime Minister begins by welcoming the approval of a coronavirus vaccine , describing it as `` fantastic news '' .
He praises the scientist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the jab to make the scientific breakthrough possible .
12.02pm update : Boris Johnson in the Commons waiting to begin Boris Johnson is lingering behind the Speaker 's chair in the chamber as he waits for the previous Commons debate to finish before taking his seat on the front bench for the grilling from MPs to begin .
The previous debate appears to be running a couple of minutes behind time .
Last night senior Tory backbenchers were lining up to criticise the Prime Minister 's new coronavirus tiers system , which came @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nearly six hours yesterday MPs debated the measures , attacking the plan one after the other .
The Prime Minister was n't in the Commons for most of the speeches of his Tory party colleagues .
Today , they will get the chance to directly express their anger to him .
Today 's clash at the dispatch box between Boris Johnson and Sir Keir Starmer will be the first time PMQs attended by the Prime Minister in person in three weeks .
After coming into close contact with someone who tested positive for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ self-isolation .
In a historic first for the Commons , for the last two weeks the Prime Minister took part in PMQs remotely , answering questions virtually from inside No10 .

It was announced this morning the UK regulator, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), has approved the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine. Roll out of the jab across the country will start next week.
The announcement gave Mr Johnson some positive news to boast about in the Commons. With a realistic end of the pandemic in the UK now in sight, the vaccine helps the Prime Minister shrug off last night's backbench rebellion over his coronavirus plan. Mr Johnson saw just 291 MPs vote in favour of his new coronavirus tiers system for England which came into force today, with 55 Tory MPs voting against the system and a further 16 abstaining. Keir Starmer also left the Prime Minister furious after telling Labour MPs to abstain on the vote. Mr Johnson accused his counterpart of having "no credible plan" and "no view on the way ahead". The Prime Minister has used PMQs to once again attack his opposite number for failing to support the measures. He accused the Labour leader of "dithering" while the Government gets on with defeating the pandemic. Using his favourite jibe, he said: "Captain Hindsight has risen rapidly up the ranks and has become General Indecision." FOLLOW BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES FROM EXPRESS.CO.UK
Boris Johnson and Keir Starmer clash in PMQs at midday today
12.37pm update: That's all folks! Prime Minister's Questions has ended and the House of Commons is now suspended for three minutes to allow MPs to arrive and leave in a manner safe with Covid restrictions. Today's grilling saw Sir Keir Starmer focus on scrutinising the roll out of the new coronavirus vaccine, while the Prime Minister attacked the Labour leader for failing to support the Government in its mission to see an end to the pandemic in the UK. 12.32pm update: Boris urged to commit to 'levelling up' the whole of the UK, not just focusing on the North of England. North Cornwall MP Scott Mann has warned the "levelling up" agenda is sometimes "only discussed through the prism of the North/South divide". He says parts of his constituency also need investment and support. The MP asks the Prime Minister to ensure that two sources of funding - the SHared Prosperity Fund and the Levelling Up Fund - are separate entities and will both help provide support to areas across the country. Responding, Mr Johnson says the funds will be separate and confirms MPs will have a say to ensure those areas that need it most get support.
Trending
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12.26pm update: Green Party join SNP in anger at Boris Johnson Mr Johnson's response on mental health provisions has angered the Green Party has well as the SNP. Green Party MP Catherine Lucas has written on Twitter: "'We have abandoned nobody' claims the PM. "Utterly untrue. More than 3 million self-employed, including limited company directors, have had no support at all during Covid & ministers will not even meet with them. "When will this injustice end? #PMQs." 12.23pm update: Ian Blackford isn't happy at the Prime Minister's response Mr Blackford is unsatisfied with Mr Johnson's response on mental health provision. He repliess: "That simply isn't good enough. These people need help. "This has been an abject failure and the Prime Minister has been missing in action. "The Prime Minister has U-turned on almost everything else so why can't he and the Chancellor change their minds on support for these people. "They haven't just been left behind, they've been ignored for 9 months." 12.20pm update: SNP demands more money from Government After taking a moment to welcome the news of a vaccine, the SNP's Ian Blackford has once again returned to criticising the Government's handling of the pandemic. He says: "There are millions who still haven't had a single penny of support from this UK Government. "Yesterday I met with Excluded UK, who represent many of these three million citizens. "For the last nine months, the excluded have been living without any help, without any hope. It is now tragically costing lives. "Prime Minister they told me something shocking. They are aware of eight people who have taken their lives in the last 10 days. Eight people in 10 days. "These people need help. Will the PM commit to looking again to ensure no one is left behind." The Prime Minister responds saying he "obviously sympathise very much with those who have taken their lives, and their families" and that the Government has abandoned nobody during the crisis. READ THE FULL STORY HERE
The SNP's Ian Blackford is demanding more mental health support
12.16pm update: Boris Johnson seizes on chance to attack Keir Starmer has asked for the Prime Minister to outline how he plans to ensure job security for those impacted by coronavirus. Mr Johnson has seized on the demand to attack his opposite number. He says Labour failed to get onboard promoting the public interest when it abstained on last night's vote on the tiered system in England. He said: "Mr Speaker, we're of course supporting every job that we can with a £200billion programme. "But I'd take him a little more seriously, frankly, if he could be bothered to vote on a programme, a moderate programme to keep the virus down and open up the economy. "We're getting on with our programme, as I say, of rolling out the vaccine, of sensible tiering measures - in addition to which we are delivering 40 more hospitals and 20,000 more police officers." Returning to his favourite taunt od the Labour leader, he added: "Captain Hindsight has risen rapidly up the ranks and has become General Indecision. "He dithers, we get on with the job." READ THE FULL STORY HERE
Keir Starmer has once again been accused of being 'Captain Hindsight'
12.14pm update: Labour's deputy leader is unimpressed Despite the cordial nature of PMQs so far, Labour's deputy leader isn't happy. Angela Raynor said on Twitter: "Johnson doesn't seem to have a plan for rolling out the vaccine. How many people will be given the vaccine next week, when, where and how? "His track record on PPE, testing and track and trace is one of delays, failure and £bns being given to cronies and private companies. #PMQs" 12.10pm update: Boris warns public 'don't get your hopes up!' Sir Keir Starmer points out that just 800,000 doses will be delivered next week, enough to vaccinate less than half a million. The Labour leader asks how long it will take to ensure all care home residents, staff and over 80s will be vaccinated. Mr Johnson responds: "I think it is very important that people do not get their hopes up too soon on the speed with which we can roll out this vaccine. It is beginning next week, we are expecting several million doses before the end of the year. We will then be rolling it out as fast as we can. "But that is why I put so much emphasis on the continuing importance of the tiering system and mass community testing as we go forward through these tough winter months. "We will need to keep that tough tiering and testing regime in place."
Boris Johnson has warned the public not to get carried away
12.06pm update: Keir Starmer demands answers on who will get vaccine first The Labour leader has asked for more information on the roll out of the Covid jab. The Prime Minister says: "The priority list will be residents in a care home, for older adults and their carers, to stop transmission. All those 80 years of age and older, frontline health care and social care workers, then all those of 75 years of age and over, then all those of 70 years of age and over, all those clinically vulnerable, then a list that I believe represents common sense. "This is unquestionably good news and the end of the story, the end of our national struggle against coronavirus and that is why it's very important that the package of moderately tough measures voted for last night are followed as we continue to beat the virus."
Boris Johnson tells the House the vaccine will go to care home residents, staff and over 80s first


thedailyexpress--2020-12-02--Macron's plot for Brexit to never end! Restart talks in 2021 'without any time pressures'

President Emmanuel Macron wants to up the ante in the trade talks with the European Union declaring itself prepared to end the year without a future relationship pact .
He believes wrangling over a free-trade agreement could then be restarted in 2021 without the time pressures of the transition period , according to EU sources .
His warning came as Michel Barnier revealed he was uncertain whether a deal would be concluded before Britain exits its post-Brexit transition from the bloc in December .
An EU diplomat said : “ Bit more flesh .
EU diplomat says : `` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moment in the Brexit talks .
Intensive negotiations are continuing in London .
As of this morning it is still unclear whether negotiators can bridge the gaps on issues like level playing field , governance and fisheries .
`` As we are entering the endgame of the Brexit negotiations , some member states are becoming a bit jittery .
So this was mostly an exercise to calm nerves in Paris and elsewhere and to reassure member states that team Barnier will continue to defend core EU interests including on fisheries . ''
Under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talks would resume next year after a “ small shock ” to trade between the EU and UK .
But the Frenchman says that would be incomparable to the much graver danger of making too many concessions to secure a last-minute deal .
The French government was said to be concerned that Mr Barnier is preparing to give too much ground in the battle over post-Brexit fishing rights as time runs out .
At a private meeting with EU envoys , the bloc 's chief negotiator was told accepting no deal was better @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clamped down on concessions .
Mr Barnier said the talks were moving forward but still largely held up by blockages in the wrangling over fishing , common standards and policing the final agreement .
An EU diplomat said : `` There is a worry that because of this pressure of time there is a temptation to rush `` We told him : do n't do that . ''
MUST READ : Brexit : EU ' misjudged talks ' as UK warned 'this may get messy' Mr Barnier has been since the weekend locked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Frost in London .
They were said to be getting down to the `` nitty gritty '' with a species-by-species discussion on shared fishing stocks .
And wrangling over governance stalled because of a row over an EU demand for a `` cross retaliation ” mechanism that would allow the bloc to slap trade sanctions on the UK across any part of the deal in the event of any future dispute .
DO N'T MISS You 're nothing without us !
EU faces humbling relegation to fishing [ INSIGHT ] Michel Barnier tells @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – UK stands firm [ REVEALED ] Pound euro exchange rate 'loses ground ' as Brexit talks intensify [ FORECAST ]

Brexit: Expert discusses possible ‘transition’ for fishermen
President Emmanuel Macron wants to up the ante in the trade talks with the European Union declaring itself prepared to end the year without a future relationship pact. He believes wrangling over a free-trade agreement could then be restarted in 2021 without the time pressures of the transition period, according to EU sources. His warning came as Michel Barnier revealed he was uncertain whether a deal would be concluded before Britain exits its post-Brexit transition from the bloc in December.
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An EU diplomat said: “Bit more flesh. EU diplomat says: "We are quickly approaching a make or break moment in the Brexit talks. Intensive negotiations are continuing in London. As of this morning it is still unclear whether negotiators can bridge the gaps on issues like level playing field, governance and fisheries. "As we are entering the endgame of the Brexit negotiations, some member states are becoming a bit jittery. So this was mostly an exercise to calm nerves in Paris and elsewhere and to reassure member states that team Barnier will continue to defend core EU interests including on fisheries." Under Mr Macron’s plan, Brexit talks would resume next year after a “small shock” to trade between the EU and UK.
Emmanuel Macron puts squeeze on Brexit negotiators with plan for no deal
French President Emmanuel Macron is a hardliner against Brexit
But the Frenchman says that would be incomparable to the much graver danger of making too many concessions to secure a last-minute deal. The French government was said to be concerned that Mr Barnier is preparing to give too much ground in the battle over post-Brexit fishing rights as time runs out. At a private meeting with EU envoys, the bloc's chief negotiator was told accepting no deal was better than a bad deal as nervous states clamped down on concessions.
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Michel Barnier is the EU's chief Brexit negotiator
Mr Barnier said the talks were moving forward but still largely held up by blockages in the wrangling over fishing, common standards and policing the final agreement. An EU diplomat said: "There is a worry that because of this pressure of time there is a temptation to rush "We told him: don't do that." MUST READ: Brexit: EU' misjudged talks' as UK warned 'this may get messy'
What needs to be done to get a Brexit trade and security deal over the line?
Mr Barnier has been since the weekend locked in around-the-clock talks with UK counterpart Lord Frost in London. They were said to be getting down to the "nitty gritty" with a species-by-species discussion on shared fishing stocks. And wrangling over governance stalled because of a row over an EU demand for a "cross retaliation” mechanism that would allow the bloc to slap trade sanctions on the UK across any part of the deal in the event of any future dispute. DON'T MISS
You're nothing without us! EU faces humbling relegation to fishing [INSIGHT]
Michel Barnier tells EU to prepare for no deal Brexit – UK stands firm [REVEALED]
Pound euro exchange rate 'loses ground' as Brexit talks intensify [FORECAST]
Brexit: UK should not 'cast the blame onto Scotland' says Russell


thedailyexpress--2020-12-02--Ed Miliband squirms as BBC host shames Labour Party over Covid tiers vote abstention

Ed Miliband insisted the Labour Party had wanted to show its support for restrictions but signal its criticism of the financial support made available to struggling businesses in Tier 2 and Tier 3 .
BBC Today presenter Mishal Husain however warned the decision to abstain from the vote could send the wrong signal to Britons seeking help from politicians to recover from the crisis .
The BBC host said : `` Let ’ s turn to last night ’ s vote in the House of Commons .
`` That was really about how tens of millions of people who live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lives in the foreseeable future .
`` On something as important as that , Labour was neither for nor against the new restrictions . ''
Mr Miliband said Labour 's position on the tier system remained `` clear '' as he urged the Government to outline its plans to support struggling businesses .
He said : `` I ’ ll tell you very clearly what our position was , that we support health measures and that ’ s why we didn ’ t vote against the regulations last night but we are deeply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right across the sectors in trouble .
JUST IN : Sturgeon red-faced as EU figures dismiss dream of 'economically weaker ' Scotland joining '' And there ’ s a secret document circulating around Whitehall naming the sectors that have a red rating , with traffic lights flashing red .
`` The Government isn ’ t coming clear about that .
But more to the point , they ’ ve got to provide the support commensurate with the scale of the crisis . ''
The response did not appear to appease Ms Husain , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to successfully display their disappointment in the measures while taking part in the vote .
She said : `` And for exactly that reason , there were Labour MPs who decided they were not going to obey the whip and decided that , because of their consciences , because of the Government approach being inadequate , they voted against . ''
Labour has faced many accusations of `` cowardice '' since leader Sir Keir Starmer announced on Monday party members would be ordered to abstain from the vote .
Radio caller Jill from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decision as she pointed out Britons pay MPs `` huge salaries '' to make a decision on behalf of their voters .
She told LBC radio : `` If they have the courage of their convictions and they do n't support it , they should back away from it and then maybe things can be changed .
`` But if they feel that they can not , I think it 's so cowardly to abstain . ''
Labour Party slapped down for 'party politics ' pointless vote plan [ ANALYSIS ] Brexit in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cave into EU demands ' [ INSIGHT ] 'What 's point of Labour ? '
Keir Starmer accused of 'moral cowardice ' [ VIDEO ]

Ed Miliband insisted the Labour Party had wanted to show its support for restrictions but signal its criticism of the financial support made available to struggling businesses in Tier 2 and Tier 3. BBC Today presenter Mishal Husain however warned the decision to abstain from the vote could send the wrong signal to Britons seeking help from politicians to recover from the crisis. The BBC host said: "Let’s turn to last night’s vote in the House of Commons.
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"That was really about how tens of millions of people who live in England are going to live their lives in the foreseeable future. "On something as important as that, Labour was neither for nor against the new restrictions." Mr Miliband said Labour's position on the tier system remained "clear" as he urged the Government to outline its plans to support struggling businesses. He said: "I’ll tell you very clearly what our position was, that we support health measures and that’s why we didn’t vote against the regulations last night but we are deeply worried about the lack of economic support right across the sectors in trouble. JUST IN: Sturgeon red-faced as EU figures dismiss dream of 'economically weaker' Scotland joining
Ed Miliband was forced to defend Labour's abstention from the Covid vote
Ed Miliband said Labour wanted to signal they oppose the lack of financial support
"And there’s a secret document circulating around Whitehall naming the sectors that have a red rating, with traffic lights flashing red. "The Government isn’t coming clear about that. But more to the point, they’ve got to provide the support commensurate with the scale of the crisis." The response did not appear to appease Ms Husain, who pointed out some Labour MPs managed to successfully display their disappointment in the measures while taking part in the vote. She said: "And for exactly that reason, there were Labour MPs who decided they were not going to obey the whip and decided that, because of their consciences, because of the Government approach being inadequate, they voted against." READ MORE: Brilliantly British: Boris Johnson urges Britain – buy British and boost national recovery
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Labour ‘cowardly’ for abstaining tier vote says radio caller
Coronavirus news: The new tier system will be in place from Wednesday
Labour has faced many accusations of "cowardice" since leader Sir Keir Starmer announced on Monday party members would be ordered to abstain from the vote. Radio caller Jill from Cornwall was left enraged by Labour's decision as she pointed out Britons pay MPs "huge salaries" to make a decision on behalf of their voters. She told LBC radio: "If they have the courage of their convictions and they don't support it, they should back away from it and then maybe things can be changed. "But if they feel that they cannot, I think it's so cowardly to abstain." DON'T MISS Labour Party slapped down for 'party politics' pointless vote plan [ANALYSIS]
Brexit in name only fears as PM 'likely to cave into EU demands' [INSIGHT]
'What's point of Labour?' Keir Starmer accused of 'moral cowardice' [VIDEO]
Coronavirus news: The new tier system was devised to keep the spread under control


thedailyexpress--2020-12-02--Watch out Sturgeon! SNP civil war erupts as Salmond could return with list of demands

Cracks between First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and Mr Salmond ’ s camps were laid bare after the former First Minister published a “ joint action plan ” with SNP MSP Alex Neil over how the Nationalists should tackle the ongoing COVID-19 crisis .
Former First Minister Mr Salmond was accused of “ settling scores ” with his predecessor as he put pressure on Ms Sturgeon to tackle Scotland ’ s crippled economy and the unemployment crisis .
Mr Salmond ’ s return to politics comes after he was the subject of an inquiry by civil servants allegations of sexual misconduct @ @ @ @ @ @ @ judicial review deemed that probe to be unlawful and he was cleared of 13 charges of sexual assault , including attempted rape , at the High Court in Edinburgh in March .
In his newly published paper , Mr Salmond and Mr Neil said the “ way out of crisis is to first generate and then seize these opportunities ” .
But Scottish Tory shadow economy spokesman Maurice Golden said the paper was proof the civil war between “ the Salmond and Sturgeon camps has become visceral ” .
He told The Herald @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Salmond and Sturgeon camps has become visceral but is of little interest to the people of Scotland as they deal with the devastation wrought by COVID .
`` While the former First Minister is entitled to his opinion , it is inappropriate to use the pandemic to settles scores with his former friend and protege in Bute House . ''
The paper called for Holyrood to prioritise projects benefiting “ health , education , social housing , the environment , road and rail , broadband , water and sewage , anti-flooding measures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a National Housebuilding Company , would build 10,000 new homes , with opportunities to rent .
The paper also called for the Scottish Government to create a Scottish National Renewable Corporation , Research and Development fund , invest in “ shovel-ready ” building projects and offer businesses long-term loans at zero interest and create The pair said these actions would “ transform Scotland ’ s prospects for post-coronavirus economic recovery and avoid mass unemployment ” by creating “ many thousands of much needed jobs , ” according to the Herald .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ long past when it is acceptable to see major industrial benefits bypass Scotland .
Instead , Scotland ’ s resources should be used for the benefit of the Scottish people .
“ Innovation in politics and economics is often driven by necessity and creates change and opportunity .
“ The way out of the crisis is to first generate and then seize these opportunities .
This paper is our contribution to that Scottish effort.
” In response to the release of the paper , a Scottish Government spokesman said : “ We are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ powers to protect jobs and to help Scotland ’ s economy on its path to a strong and lasting recovery .
`` Our recent launch of the Scottish National Investment Bank will be a key part of that , helping to tackle some of the biggest challenges we face .
“ Every decision we take has the sole objective of trying to keep the country as safe as possible and to get it through what we hope is now the final stage of the pandemic , with as few lives lost and as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ indeed , as little harm to the overall economy – as possible .
“ In terms of housing , we have already delivered almost 96,000 affordable homes since 2007 , with more than 66,000 of these for social rent .
`` In the four years to 2018-19 , Scotland has delivered over 80 percent more affordable homes per head of population than in both England and Wales , 50 percent more homes per head than in Northern Ireland , and over eight times more social rented properties per head than in England .
@

Cracks between First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and Mr Salmond’s camps were laid bare after the former First Minister published a “joint action plan” with SNP MSP Alex Neil over how the Nationalists should tackle the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. Former First Minister Mr Salmond was accused of “settling scores” with his predecessor as he put pressure on Ms Sturgeon to tackle Scotland’s crippled economy and the unemployment crisis.
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Mr Salmond’s return to politics comes after he was the subject of an inquiry by civil servants allegations of sexual misconduct were made against him. But a judicial review deemed that probe to be unlawful and he was cleared of 13 charges of sexual assault, including attempted rape, at the High Court in Edinburgh in March. In his newly published paper, Mr Salmond and Mr Neil said the “way out of crisis is to first generate and then seize these opportunities”.
Alex Salmond set out a paper on how the Scottish Government should tackle the coronavirus
Cracks between First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and Alex Salmond’s camps have been laid bare
But Scottish Tory shadow economy spokesman Maurice Golden said the paper was proof the civil war between “the Salmond and Sturgeon camps has become visceral”. He told The Herald: "The SNP civil war between the Salmond and Sturgeon camps has become visceral but is of little interest to the people of Scotland as they deal with the devastation wrought by COVID. "While the former First Minister is entitled to his opinion, it is inappropriate to use the pandemic to settles scores with his former friend and protege in Bute House." READ MORE: Sturgeon accused of 'making mockery' of tiers as SNP refuse downgrade
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Alex Salmond was accused of “settling scores” with his predecessor
Nicola Sturgeon is in the middle of tackling the coronavirus pandemic
Alex Salmond put pressure on Ms Sturgeon to tackle Scotland’s crippled economy and the unemployment crisis
The pair said these actions would “transform Scotland’s prospects for post-coronavirus economic recovery and avoid mass unemployment” by creating “many thousands of much needed jobs,” according to the Herald. The paper said: “The time is long past when it is acceptable to see major industrial benefits bypass Scotland. Instead, Scotland’s resources should be used for the benefit of the Scottish people. “Innovation in politics and economics is often driven by necessity and creates change and opportunity.
Facts about Nicola Sturgeon
“The way out of the crisis is to first generate and then seize these opportunities. This paper is our contribution to that Scottish effort.” In response to the release of the paper, a Scottish Government spokesman said: “We are determined to do everything within our current powers to protect jobs and to help Scotland’s economy on its path to a strong and lasting recovery. "Our recent launch of the Scottish National Investment Bank will be a key part of that, helping to tackle some of the biggest challenges we face.


thedailyexpress--2020-12-02--SNP slapped down as outrageous no deal Brexit 'cliff-edge' claim backfires in Commons row

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Sign up fornow and never miss the top politics stories again SNP MP Kirsten Oswald warned that the UK was only 30 days away from a `` chaotic hard Brexit `` as she lashed out at the Government 's handling of the process in regards to Northern Ireland .
The Scottish Nationalist Party spokesperson repeated concerns from Northern Ireland businesses about the uncertainty surrounding a `` cliff-edge '' exit , and how this may affect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brandon Lewis dismissed her question , pointing to information that he had already received from said businesses .
She asked : `` Only 30 days from the cliff-edge , is n't it the case that Northern Ireland businesses have simply been an afterthought in his Government 's chaotic hard Brexit ? ''
Mr Lewis said : `` It is the advice from Northern Ireland businesses that we used to ensure that we have unfettered access .
`` I hope she and her colleagues will support us in ensuring that that is in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ access , which she now claims to support .
`` But also to ensure that we get good free flow of access to make sure that the whole of the UK internal market can work together . ''
READ MORE : 'You have WORSE record ! '
Sturgeon grilled on 'devastating ' mishandling

SNP MP Kirsten Oswald warned that the UK was only 30 days away from a "chaotic hard Brexit" as she lashed out at the Government's handling of the process in regards to Northern Ireland. The Scottish Nationalist Party spokesperson repeated concerns from Northern Ireland businesses about the uncertainty surrounding a "cliff-edge" exit, and how this may affect access across borders. Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis dismissed her question, pointing to information that he had already received from said businesses.
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Ms Oswald asked:"The Secretary of State will know of the anger among Northern Irish business people over the accusation by the ironically titled Minister for Efficiency and Transformation that they have their head stuck in the sand on Brexit. "Only 30 days from the hard Brexit cliff edge, does the Secretary of State appreciate that most people will have far more sympathy with Northern Irish businessman Stephen Kelly? "He suggested that it's the Government who has its head stuck somewhere else. "Isn't it the case that Northern Ireland businesses have simply been an afterthought in his Government's chaotic hard Brexit?" READ MORE: 'You have WORSE record!' Sturgeon grilled on 'devastating' mishandling
SNP slapped down over no deal Brexit 'cliff edge' claim
'It is the advice from Northern Ireland businesses that we used to ensure access.'
Mr Lewis said: "If the Honourable Lady was speaking to Northern Ireland businesses directly, like I do regularly, then she'd have more knowledge of this. "We have been in contact with them consistently though this process. "This includes Stephen Kelly, who I do know. "It is the information from businesses that fed into the command paper we issued earlier in the year."
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'He suggested that it's the Government who has its head stuck somewhere else.'
Steve Barclay shuts down question on Scottish NHS payment
He added: "As well as the guidance that we issued and the work we are doing to ensure that unfettered access to Northern Ireland and Great Britain. "I hope she and other colleagues will support us in making sure that that is in the UK Internal Market Bill to deliver the unfettered access, which she now claims in her question to support. "But also to ensure that we get good free flow of access to make sure that the whole of the UK internal market can work together, including Great Britain to Northern Ireland." DON'T MISS
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