thedailyexpress--2020-07-11--Scotland TERRIFIED: Fears of Brexit economic chaos as EU talks reach deadlock

The Scottish Government ’ s latest economic report reveals a no deal Brexit would have “ significant impact on economic activity ” in Scotland .
The fears are now being raised less than six months before the end of the Brexit transition period when the UK will no longer have to follow EU rules .
The Scottish Government has repeatedly called for the transition period to be extended with First Minister Nicola Sturgeon writing to Boris Johnson warning that `` fundamental issues '' still remained between the UK and EU negotiators .
Scottish Government sources told Express.co.uk that the economy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jeopardy ” stressing it was a “ delicate time ” especially after a “ deadlock in recent negotiations ” .
They added there was “ severe concern ” especially at the six month mark adding the coronavirus pandemic had already “ left businesses in a vulnerable state ” stressing that no deal and no extension to the transition period would make things “ significantly worse ” .
The monthly economic report added : “ As we also move towards formally exiting the EU transition period ( 31 December 2020 ) uncertainty regarding future @ @ @ @ @ @ @ potential to impact already weakened business sectors and have a significant impact on economic activity , particularly if there is no deal.
” READ MORE : SNP shamed : Thousands of British Troops to be compensated by Boris Dr Liz Cameron , chief executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce , told Express.co.uk that many businesses still lack clarity as to what the future holds .
Dr Cameron stressed that Scottish businesses required “ detailed answers ” on a wide number of issues if “ they are able to plan properly for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ period comes to an end ” .
She concluded : “ Our Scottish Chamber Network continues to call upon the UK Government to prioritise flow across the border , not adding costs or bureaucracy to businesses who are already dealing with major trading challenges due to the coronavirus crisis .
“ Whatever deal is done , Scottish businesses must be able to compete effectively .
DO N'T MISS : SNP stats blunder : Scotland slammed for 'unacceptable ' data [ REVEAL ] Last laugh ?
Fears Sturgeon 's new hate crime law will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU rejected : Scottish taxpayers to no longer foot cost of free uni [ INSIGHT ] “ The Scottish Chamber of Commerce is actively involved in talks involving trade with new markets.
” The report also revealed Scotland ’ s GDP fell by 2.5 percent in the first quarter of 2020 which was “ mainly driven by a 5.0 percent fall in output in March as the spread of coronavirus and introduction of lockdowns slowed economic activity.
” It continued : “ COVID-19 has resulted in an economic crisis in Scotland , through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also the secondary impacts on health and society from a weaker economy .
“ The impact of COVID-19 is not constant , and will be changing over time , depending on the prevalence of the virus and the severity of the restrictions required to protect against it.
” Scotland has already felt the impact of the pandemic after figures showed GDP fell 18.9 percent in April , the first full month of lockdown , and around 23 percent over March and April combined .
However , figures for the month of May are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government next week .
Scottish Finance Secretary Kate Forbes has already spurred into action and asked the Treasury to give Holyrood extra tax powers or £500m in further funding .
She warned there was a £500million hole between the extra cost of the COVID-19 pandemic and the funding given to Scotland from Westminster .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak gave £800m to Scotland through his Summer Mini-Budget however but the MSP dismissed this stressing it didn ’ t meet Scotland ’ s needs specifically .
Ms Sturgeon wrote in her letter to Boris Johnson : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for changing its position in the light of the wholly unforeseeable Covid-19 crisis , particularly as the EU has made it clear it is open to an extension request .
`` We therefore call on you to take the final opportunity the next few weeks provide to ask for an extension to the transition period in order to provide a breathing space to complete the negotiations , to implement the outcome , and the opportunity for our businesses to find their feet after the enormous disruption of recent months .
`` At the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no-one could have imagined the enormous economic dislocation which the Covid 19 pandemic has caused - in Wales , Scotland , the whole of the UK , in the EU and across the world . ''
The letter claimed that , at best , there would only be a `` bare bones '' trade deal in place by December , or a move to a no-deal exit from the EU .

Nicola Sturgeon: Brexit is making Scottish population angry
The Scottish Government’s latest economic report reveals a no deal Brexit would have “significant impact on economic activity” in Scotland. The fears are now being raised less than six months before the end of the Brexit transition period when the UK will no longer have to follow EU rules.
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Fears have been raised about the future of the Scottish economy.
Current EU trade talks are deadlocked.
The Scottish Government has repeatedly called for the transition period to be extended with First Minister Nicola Sturgeon writing to Boris Johnson warning that "fundamental issues" still remained between the UK and EU negotiators. Scottish Government sources told Express.co.uk that the economy north of the border was in “jeopardy” stressing it was a “delicate time” especially after a “deadlock in recent negotiations”. They added there was “severe concern” especially at the six month mark adding the coronavirus pandemic had already “left businesses in a vulnerable state” stressing that no deal and no extension to the transition period would make things “significantly worse”. The monthly economic report added: “As we also move towards formally exiting the EU transition period (31 December 2020) uncertainty regarding future trade arrangements with key markets has the potential to impact already weakened business sectors and have a significant impact on economic activity, particularly if there is no deal.” READ MORE: SNP shamed: Thousands of British Troops to be compensated by Boris
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The transition period ends on December 31st.
Dr Liz Cameron, chief executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, told Express.co.uk that many businesses still lack clarity as to what the future holds. Dr Cameron stressed that Scottish businesses required “detailed answers” on a wide number of issues if “they are able to plan properly for the changes that will come when the transition period comes to an end”. She concluded: “Our Scottish Chamber Network continues to call upon the UK Government to prioritise flow across the border, not adding costs or bureaucracy to businesses who are already dealing with major trading challenges due to the coronavirus crisis. “Whatever deal is done, Scottish businesses must be able to compete effectively. DON'T MISS:
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EU rejected: Scottish taxpayers to no longer foot cost of free uni [INSIGHT]
Nicola Sturgeon has protested against the UK leaving the EU.
“The Scottish Chamber of Commerce is actively involved in talks involving trade with new markets.” The report also revealed Scotland’s GDP fell by 2.5 percent in the first quarter of 2020 which was “mainly driven by a 5.0 percent fall in output in March as the spread of coronavirus and introduction of lockdowns slowed economic activity.” It continued: “COVID-19 has resulted in an economic crisis in Scotland, through the direct impact on the economy but also the secondary impacts on health and society from a weaker economy. “The impact of COVID-19 is not constant, and will be changing over time, depending on the prevalence of the virus and the severity of the restrictions required to protect against it.”
Kate Forbes has asked the UK government for more help.
Scotland has already felt the impact of the pandemic after figures showed GDP fell 18.9 percent in April, the first full month of lockdown, and around 23 percent over March and April combined. However, figures for the month of May are due to be published by the Scottish Government next week. Scottish Finance Secretary Kate Forbes has already spurred into action and asked the Treasury to give Holyrood extra tax powers or £500m in further funding. She warned there was a £500million hole between the extra cost of the COVID-19 pandemic and the funding given to Scotland from Westminster.
The Scottish economy is facing an uncertain future.


thedailyexpress--2020-07-11--Boris Johnson crashes Brexit dinner to warn Michel Barnier deal must be done this summer

Mr Johnson personally interupted a meeting between UK negotiator David Frost and his EU counterpart Mr Barnier earlier this week .
The PM met with Mr Barnier before a crunch dinner on Tuesday , reminding the EU talks chief he expected a deal this summer .
The event was aimed at allowing Mr Barnier and Mr Frost to meet in a more informal setting .
JUST IN : Brexit LIVE - Michel Barnier mocks Brexiteer with spiky letter A UK Government spokesman said : `` The PM briefly dropped in ahead of dinner and reiterated his desire for the intensified @ @ @ @ @ @ @ summer . ''
The specialised session on Wednesday covered goods , services , fisheries , governance , LPF and law enforcement .
Separately , the UK today said it was committed to working hard to agree underlying principles for a post-Brexit deal with the European Union in talks this month .
A UK Government spokesman said : `` The UK remains committed to working hard to find an early understanding on the principles underlying an agreement out of the intensified talks process during July , as agreed at the High Level Meeting on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'Unelected commissioners ! '
Mark Francois hits back at Barnier after brutal letter Speaking last month after the June 15 meeting , Mr Johnson told reporters : `` It is very clear what we need to achieve .
`` I don ’ t think we ’ re that far apart , but what we need is a bit of oomph in the negotiations , and I was pleased that Ursula von der Leyen and other EU officials all agree .
`` There is no reason why we shouldn ’ t get this done @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Boris Johnson renews 'no Brexit fudge ' pledge to Brexiteers [ REPORT ] Pound to euro exchange rate : GBP remains steady [ FORECAST ] Peter Bone shuts down 'weak ' leaked letter on Brexit border concerns [ VIDEO ] The comments are likely to be a response to a directive issued by the European Commission yesterday urging companies to be ready for a no-deal outcome .
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen commented : `` The British people decided in a democratic election to leave the European Union and its benefits .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ hard we now work towards a close partnership agreement , our relationship will inevitably change .
`` My top priority is to ensure that EU citizens and businesses are as well prepared as possible for 1 January 2021 ” .
In a letter to Mark Francois , chairman of the European Research Group ( ERG ) today , Mr Barnier said progress on thrashing out an an agreement had so far been `` disappointing '' .
He added : `` We will continue to work with determination to conclude the negotiations with success @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can be done despite the short time available , which is the choice of your government . ''

Brexit: Michel Barnier arrives for private dinner with David Frost
The PM briefly dropped in ahead of dinner and reiterated his desire for the intensified process to reach an outline agreement this summer UK Government spokesman
Mr Johnson personally interupted a meeting between UK negotiator David Frost and his EU counterpart Mr Barnier earlier this week. The PM met with Mr Barnier before a crunch dinner on Tuesday, reminding the EU talks chief he expected a deal this summer. The event was aimed at allowing Mr Barnier and Mr Frost to meet in a more informal setting. JUST IN: Brexit LIVE - Michel Barnier mocks Brexiteer with spiky letter
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A UK Government spokesman said: "The PM briefly dropped in ahead of dinner and reiterated his desire for the intensified process to reach an outline agreement this summer." The specialised session on Wednesday covered goods, services, fisheries, governance, LPF and law enforcement. Separately, the UK today said it was committed to working hard to agree underlying principles for a post-Brexit deal with the European Union in talks this month. A UK Government spokesman said: "The UK remains committed to working hard to find an early understanding on the principles underlying an agreement out of the intensified talks process during July, as agreed at the High Level Meeting on 15 June." READ MORE: 'Unelected commissioners!' Mark Francois hits back at Barnier after brutal letter
Michel Barnier with David Frost at Number 10
Speaking last month after the June 15 meeting, Mr Johnson told reporters: "It is very clear what we need to achieve. "I don’t think we’re that far apart, but what we need is a bit of oomph in the negotiations, and I was pleased that Ursula von der Leyen and other EU officials all agree. "There is no reason why we shouldn’t get this done in July." DON'T MISS
Boris Johnson renews 'no Brexit fudge' pledge to Brexiteers [REPORT]
Pound to euro exchange rate: GBP remains steady [FORECAST]
Peter Bone shuts down 'weak' leaked letter on Brexit border concerns [VIDEO]
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Boris Johnson has warned Michel Barnier a Brexit trade deal must be agreed this summer
UK negotiator David Frost was also at the dinner
The comments are likely to be a response to a directive issued by the European Commission yesterday urging companies to be ready for a no-deal outcome. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen commented: "The British people decided in a democratic election to leave the European Union and its benefits. "This means that no matter how hard we now work towards a close partnership agreement, our relationship will inevitably change.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission
Boris Johnson ‘doesn’t bow down’ to EU says Iain Dale
"My top priority is to ensure that EU citizens and businesses are as well prepared as possible for 1 January 2021”. In a letter to Mark Francois, chairman of the European Research Group (ERG) today, Mr Barnier said progress on thrashing out an an agreement had so far been "disappointing". He added: "We will continue to work with determination to conclude the negotiations with success as we continue to believe that this can be done despite the short time available, which is the choice of your government."
Michel Barnier has warned of "significant differences" between the two sides
Yesterday Mr Barnier tweeted: "This week’s discussions confirm that significant divergences remain between EU & GB. "We will continue working with patience, respect & determination." Mr Barnier had travelled to London for the talks, a point highlighted by Mr Frost, who tweeted on Wednesday: "Delighted to meet my fellow Chief Negotiator @MichelBarnier at No10 last night and to kick off today's talks in London."
The Bruges Group's tweet


thedailyexpress--2020-07-11--Brexit LIVE: Boris Johnson sets Michel Barnier 21 day deadline to agree to principle deal

Separately , it was revealed Mr Johnson had dropped in unannounced to a dinner party at which Mr Barnier and UK negotiator David Frost were both guests to underline the urgency of the situation , with the PM keen to get something wrapped up by the end of the month .
Mr Francois , chairman of the European Research Group ( ERG ) , and MP for Rayleigh and Wickford had previously sought to lay down the law in a `` Missive from a Free Country '' sent to Mr Barnier on June 26 , in which he demanded Brussels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the EU is currently making '' .
Specifically , he stressed there was no way the European Court of Justice could have any role in `` the UK 's national life '' after the end of the year .
Mr Barnier has now replied in a letter taking issue with a number of Mr Francois ' points .
He pointed out the political declaration ratified by Parliament does allocate a role to the ECJ as part of arrangements for Northern Ireland - the so-called Northern Ireland protocol .
The political declaration , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by your Prime Minister and voted for by the House of Commons , including yourself , as part of the Withdrawal Agreement ratification '' .
Mr Barnier also took the time to acknowledge the existence of the ERG , a likely response to a passage in Mr Francois 's letter in which he said : `` It is possible that you may have heard of us '' .
He said : `` I have over the past years met British politicians representing the entire spectrum of views on Brexit , including the European @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' He also took a subtle swipe at Mr Francois 's reference to living in a free country while lamenting the UK 's decision to quit the bloc , writing : `` In this same spirit , we approach the ongoing negotiations with your great - and indeed free - country , which will remain a close friend , neighbour and ally of the European Union . ''
In a message to Mr Barnier today , Mr Francois said : “ The Political Declaration is indicative and not legally binding – as you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ m delighted that further talks are now agreed .
As you often remind us , ‘ the clock is ticking ’ .
” 01.31am update : Michel Barnier says he ca n't see the `` value '' of Britain leaving the EU Michel Barnier , the EU 's chief Brexit negotiator , said he could n't see the `` added value '' of Brexit in a letter to Mark Francois , chair of the eurosceptic European Research Group .
Responding to a letter from Mr Francois the EU leader wrote : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to me the added value of leaving the most integrated economic and free trade area in the world , I have always respected the UK 's decision to withdraw from the EU '' .
However he added Britain , which he termed a `` great , and indeed free , country '' will `` remain a close neighbour , friend and ally of the European Union '' .
The UK is currently trying to negotiate an agreement with the EU to ensure free trade remains when Britain exits the Brexit transition period at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK could see food price rises if if leave the Brexit transition period at the end of the year according to the British Retail Consortium .
In a statement the industry body claimed a no-deal exit would hit `` ordinary household goods that every consumer has to buy and replenish '' .
It added : `` It doesn ’ t matter whether it ’ s Great Britain , or it ’ s Northern Ireland , the people who will suffer most because of these cost rises will be those people who are most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ already ruled out applying to extend the Brexit transition period .
9pm update : New secret Brexit customs centre to be built The government has purchased 22 acres of land for a new customs clearance centre for thousands of lorries that come from Dover , the Guardian reports .
It is understood that it will be the first customs centre erected in the UK dealing with goods coming from the EU for 27 years .
The local council and residents in Ashford have only just been informed of the plan however , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The letter , from MP Rachel Maclean , parliamentary undersecretary of state for transport , said : “ We are writing to inform you that the Department of Transport has purchased the site known as ‘ MOJO ’ ( Church Road , Sevington Ashford ) .
`` Preliminary works are scheduled to take place on the western parcel from Monday 13 July 2020 , this will include : securing the site with fencing , grass and weed vegetation cutting , extensive survey work , the constructing of a temporary site office , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the site from the A2070 link road . ''
7:30pm update : Get Ready for Brexit Campaign set to be launched A new multi-million-pound Get Ready for Brexit campaign will be launched by the UK government on Monday .
The campaign will be aimed at informing businesses of the complex customs regime they will face as the UK is deadlocked in securing a Brexit deal .
Details of the campaign will be revealed by Michael Gove on Sunday .
6pm update : Sterling not strong against the Euro Sterling traded higher versus the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ euro on Friday , with investors mostly staying on the sidelines .
Very little has been achieved in negotiations between Britain and the European Union on a trade deal following Britain 's departure from the bloc .
This leaves sterling traders unsure of how to approach the pound with the currency driven mostly by external factors .
Stephen Gallo , a currency analyst at BMO Capital Markets , thinks the pound will weaken given that countries that are net exporters have an advantage over Britain .
He added : `` The UK 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2020 .
`` What 2020 will do is create a starting point for UK/EU-27 trade adjustments going forward '' adding that `` regulatory alignment , dispute arbitration and trade friction are likely to crop up as issues over the medium-term .
`` We would be inclined to fade sterling strength versus the euro on a move back to 0.8650 . ''
Britain will suffer the sharpest peak-to-trough economic slump of any major economy this year , rating agency Moody 's warned today .
Moody 's said the UK government 's latest £30 billion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would aid a gradual economic recovery but add further pressure to the UK 's fiscal position .
They added : `` The UK 's public debt ratio will likely rise by 24 percentage points of GDP or more relative to 2019 levels .
`` We forecast a contraction of 10.1 percent in the UK 's GDP for this year , but expect a gradual subsequent recovery on the back of the easing in lockdown measures , with growth rebounding to 7.1 percent next year '' .
The agency said high-frequency indicators suggested that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after reaching a trough in April when GDP is estimated to have contracted by just over 20 percent .
They added : `` Our forecast estimates a sharper peak-to-trough contraction for the UK than for any other G-20 economy , taking account of our view that lingering uncertainty around Brexit will hold back the recovery in the second half of the year . ''
Moody 's rates Britain Aa2 with a negative outlook following a series of cuts since the country voted to leave the European Union in mid-2016 .
4pm update : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Brexit transition period The EU has given a harsh warning of the barriers that will go up between the EU and the UK when the transition period expires in December .
In a Commission document , Brits are being told that they will be `` subject to thorough checks '' at borders when entering EU countries with the exception of Ireland , as they will be `` treated as third-country nationals '' .
Tory MP Robert Halfon has welcomed Education Secretary Gavin Williamson 's decision to tear up a commitment to send @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in favour of a `` German-style '' further education system .
Mr Williamson yesterday said a rebalance towards further education was vital for the UK 's economic recovery following COVID-19 , saying for decades the country has `` failed '' to give it the investment it deserves .
He added : `` As we emerge from COVID , further education will be the key that unlocks this country ’ s potential and that helps make post-Brexit Britain the triumph we all want , and the triumph our young people all deserve . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit fudge ' promise to Brexiteers as Barnier issues slap down Boris Johnson issued a renewed pledge to concerned Brexiteers to reassure them there will be `` no fudge '' during Brexit trade negotiations , political commentator Patrick Maguire claimed .
Boris Johnson was forced to issue a reassurance to European Research Group ( ERG ) members concerned about another Brexit `` fudge '' from the British Government .
Times Radio reporter Patrick Maguire suggested the Prime Minister had to renew his pledge of straightforward talks after former ERG chair Steve Baker warned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ union past the transition period .
Mr Maguire said : `` Boris Johnson even took to the European Research Group Whatsapp group on the day of Rishi Sunak ’ s mini-budget when Steve Baker , Mark Francois ’ slightly more sinister predecessor , warned he thought we were going to stay in the customs union .
1.38pm update : 'Hope for the best , prepare for the worst ' Belgian Prime Minister Sophie Wilmese has welcomed the announcement of a 5 billion euro rescue package for countries like hers , which are likely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ irresepective of whether a trade deal is agreed .
Commenting on the proposal , which will be debated by the 27 national EU leaders in Brussels next week , she said : `` Hope for the best , prepare for the worst : a sound principle in politics .
`` Proposal for a new Brexit adjustment reserve to counter consequences in member states worst affected is a very good signal to start the negotiations . ''
Ireland is also likely to be one of the countries in need of financial assistance .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government governement dropped its support for coronavirus vaccine programmes in the UK as “ not true and misleading ” .
The UK will today reject an invitation to participate in the EU vaccine programme as a result of concerns about delays getting doses into the country .
Anonymous Westminster sources have claimed the EU initially asked the Government to drop its support for UK vaccine programmes including those underway at Oxford University and Imperial College .
EU spokesman Eric Mamert insisted the claim was “ not true and misleading ” .
He said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ means that would result in the quick finding and production of a successful vaccine '' .
Mr Mamert rejected suggestions the EU would put the UK at the back of the queue when it came to handing out the vaccines , stressing doses would be `` distributed according to population '' .
12.54pm update : Brexit no deal collapse would be 'DISASTER ' for Merkel A Brexit no deal would be an “ economic disaster ” for German companies , it has been warned .
The managing director of the Federation of German @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the EU without an agreement would be “ the worst result for all sides ” .
Joachim Lang said Brexit would trigger chaos and warned London would face “ a hard break ” in the event of a no deal .
He said : “ Without clear guidelines for the movement of goods , Brexit will become an economic disaster for companies `` A British exit from the EU without an agreement would be the worst result for all sides .
`` If London does n't move on key issues , British @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hard break . ''
12.35pm update : EU launches emergency €5billion Brexit fund to prop up states worst-hit by UK leaving The European Union has announced proposals for a multi-billion euro emergency Brexit fund to help pay for any damages caused by Britain 's departure from the bloc .
European Council President Charles Michel said the €5 billion reserve would be used to “ counter unforeseen circumstances ” of Brexit .
Announcing his plans for the EU ’ s next budget , the eurocrat said : “ Brexit is challenging for all of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we propose a Brexit reserve of five billion .
`` We will create another reserve in order to counter the unforeseen consequences in the most-affected member states and sectors.
” 12.06pm update : Boris Johnson crashes Brexit dinner to warn Michel Barnier deal must be done this summer BREXIT talks are back on track after Boris Johnson surprised Michel Barnier with an unexpected appearance during the latest round of discussions .
Mr Johnson personally interupted a meeting between UK negotiator David Frost and his EU counterpart Mr Barnier earlier this week .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crunch dinner on Tuesday , reminding the EU talks chief he expected a deal this summer .
The event was aimed at allowing Mr Barnier and Mr Frost to meet in a more informal setting .
A UK Government spokesman said : `` The PM briefly dropped in ahead of dinner and reiterated his desire for the intensified process to reach an outline agreement this summer . ''
Mark Francois has hit back at Michel Barnier 's claim Britain 's departure from the European Union is pointless .
In response to a letter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ insisted freeing the country from the clutches of “ unelected commissioners ” would be a suitable reward for the millions of voters who backed Brexit .
The Conservative MP for Rayleigh and Wickford added : `` No one has ever demonstrated to me the added value of remaining in the EU and being governed by a bunch of unelected commissioners .
“ It seems 17.4 million UK citizens felt similarly .
As you rightly acknowledged , we are now a free country – and indeed very happy to be so.
” The UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trade deal by the end of the year after a warning by Brussels yesterday that the two sides remained far apart on key issues .
A UK Government spokesman said the UK was committed to finding an early understanding on the principles underlying an agreement out of the intensified talks process during july , as agreed at the high level meeting on June 15 .
Guy Verhofstadt , the European Parliament 's Brexit representative and a frequent critic of the UK 's decision to leave the bloc , has turned on Angela Merkel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supposed reluctance to take a tougher stance against China .
The EU chief suggested “ selling cars ” to China was “ more important ” to Germany than taking a “ firm stance ” on Beijing .
Mr Verhofstadt warned the EU will “ never ” be able to put in a more “ robust ” policy against the Asian superpower .
He tweeted : “ As long as selling cars to China is more important to Europe , especially to Germany than taking a firm stance on the Chinese crackdown on human @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Xinjang , we will never be able to put in place a more robust EU-China policy.
” The European Commission has published advice aimed at helping public bodies , businesses and citizens prepare for the the end of the transition period .
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said : `` The British people decided in a democratic election to leave the European Union and its benefits .
`` This means that no matter how hard we now work towards a close partnership agreement , our relationship will inevitably change .
`` My @ @ @ @ @ @ @ citizens and businesses are as well prepared as possible for 1 January 2021 . ''
European Council President Charles Michel is due to propose a smaller 2021-27 EU budget than previously envisaged , officials said on Friday , in a bid to make the bloc 's mass economic stimulus more palatable to thrifty northern member states with the UK 's departure looming .
With the EU economy headed for its worst recession , the bloc is haggling over how to finance recovery from the coronavirus pandemic with the frugal , wealthy north facing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ harder by COVID-19 .
Under discussion is the bloc 's next budget , so far envisaged at 1.1 trillion euros , and an attached 750-billion-euro recovery fund .
The 'frugals ' want a smaller budget and economic reforms as a condition for accessing the extra funds .
The 27 national EU leaders are due to meet in Brussels next week for their first face-to-face talks since coronavirus drove Europe into lockdown in March to bargain over the proposal .
The pound to euro exchange rate remained set in its `` rangebound '' territory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ round of the UK-EU negotiations .
Is now the best time to get euros ?
Despite a series of highs and lows in recent days , the pound is rounding off the week in a steady position against the euro .
Though the early conclusion of `` informal '' Brexit trade talks threatened to shake any strength the GBP has retained , it is likely sterling will remain in the same position as it moves into the weekend .
The pound is currently trading at a rate of 1.1166 against the euro according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
9.15am update : Furious Peter Bone shuts down BBC over 'leaked letter ' on post-Brexit border fears Tory MP Peter Bone lashed out at a reportedly leaked letter from Cabinet minister Liz Truss , which claimed that there could be massive issues with the UK 's plan for border control after leaving the EU .
The EU Commission has unveiled its plan for the end of the Brexit transition period , prompting concerns about the UK-EU border arrangements .
Despite being set to leave the EU at the end of the year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ border controls on goods will not come into effect until next July .
Conservative MP Mr Bone rubbished concerns that the delay could lead to risks of smuggling when he was confronted by a leaked letter from Liz Truss on BBC Newsnight .
Supermarket chains have pledged never to stock chlorinated chicken or hormone-treated beef , regardless of any trade deal the UK may strike with the USA .
An M & S spokesman told the Business Insider website : `` Our commitment to our customers and family of 10,000 British farmers has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Our promise is that we only ever source our quality fresh food from Select Farmers we know and trust .
That means our customers can be confident that we will never sell chlorinated chicken or hormone-treated beef . ''
A Sainsbury 's spokesman said : `` We are committed to upholding high standards for our customers and will never sell these products . ''
Meanwhile a spokesman for the Co-op said : `` The Co-op has a clear policy to only source 100 % British meat . ''
Turkey is `` very close @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreement with the UK covering manufactured goods , agriculture and services , the country 's Foreign Minister has revealed .
Mevlut Cavusoglu has been in London this week meeting Boris Johnson and Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab .
He said in principle there have been no differences over a potential deal , but that some technical issues need to be ironed out .
Turkey 's Foreign Minister told the Financial Times : “ It ’ s going very well and we are very close to finalising it .
“ We agreed already with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will increase our bilateral trade ; in volume we set a $ 20billion bilateral trade target .
`` If you look at the volume of our bilateral trade , 95 percent of it is industrial products , and we agreed on that , and five percent is agriculture and services . ''
8.35am update : `` Timetable is YOUR Government 's choice , '' says Barnier In the course of his letter to ERG chief Mark Francois , EU negotiator Michel Barnier also regretted the lack of progress in ongoing talks aimed at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - while taking a swipe at Boris Johnson 's refusal to countenance an extension to the transition period .
He wrote : `` A restricted round of negotiations took place between 29 June and 2 July and subsequent rounds are foreseen in July , August and September .
`` However , let me underline that what matters more than the format of the talks is progres on substance and for that moment , results have been disappointing .
`` We will continue to work with determination to conclude the negotiations with success as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be done despite the short time available , which is the choice of your government . ''
8.21am update : France receives nearly THREE times more funding than UK The European Union continues to dish out billions more to France than the UK for farming , despite it being one of the wealthiest and prosperous nations in the bloc , new figures reveal .
Analysis from pro-Brexit group Facts4EU has shown the major gulf within the bloc 's funding for nations on funding , with France receiving around two-and-a-half-times as much money from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ France , which is the bloc 's second richest economy , has been protective over the Common Agricultural Policy ( CAP ) , which Facts4EU argues is because it continues to be the biggest beneficiary of the subsidies handed out for farming .
Across the past 10 years , the bloc has given around 40 percent of its budget to CAP projects , and according to European Commission data released last month , in 2019 this worked out at around €54.5billion ( £48.8billion ) .
8.13am update : Barnier 's reply to Francois @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Michel Barnier has hit back at Mark Francois - by pointing out the eurosceptic Tory MEP voted for the political declaration which the eurosceptic Tory MP objected to in his letter to the EU 's chief negotiator last month .
Mr Francois , chairman of the European Research Group ( ERG ) , sought to lay down the law in a `` Missive from a Free Country '' sent to Mr Barnier on June 26 , in which he demanded Brussels `` change some of the unreasonable demands that the EU is currently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there was no way the European Court of Justice could have any role in `` the UK 's national life '' after the end of the year .
Mr Barnier has now replied in a letter taking issue with a number of Mr Francois ' points .
He pointed out the political declaration ratified by Parliament does allocate a role to the ECJ as part of arrangements for Northern Ireland - the so-called Northern Ireland protocol .
The political declaration , he added , had been `` agreed by your Prime Minister and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including yourself , as part of the Withdrawal Agreement ratification '' .
Michel Barnier and David Frost - top negotiators for the EU and UK - have been having intense trade talks over the last month , and reportedly dined on fish together at No.10 this week .
The talks have become deadlocked over a so-called ‘ level-playing field ’ , the governance of any agreement and access to the UK fisheries .
While any potential issues with Ireland appear to have been put on the backburner after Prime Minister Boris Johnson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Irish Sea , Irish fishermen are keen for an essential problem to be resolved before the UK leaves the EU in December .
Grainne Ni Aodha wrote in the Irish Journal earlier this month that fishermen are nervous that , without a trade deal , Ireland ’ s fisheries could suffer too .
8.05 update : Sturgeon threatens to reject Boris Johnson 's new law in EU clash Westminster and Holyrood are on track for the biggest constitutional showdown since the EU referendum as Nicola Sturgeon 's government have threatened to block a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sturgeon and her Scottish National Party are prepared to stand in the way of a law which would give the UK Government the power to set food and environmental standards following the nation ’ s exit from the bloc .
Michael Russell , SNP cabinet secretary for constitutional affairs , told the Financial Times the SNP would take Westminster to court if it was given the power to force Scotland to accept new standards on food , environmental and animal welfare .
Mr Russell said : “ We do not accept that this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ devolution .

Brexit: Pound holds steady against euro amid trade talks
Meanwhile Mr Barnier has hit back at Mark Francois - by pointing out the eurosceptic Tory MEP voted for the political declaration which the eurosceptic Tory MP objected to in his letter to the EU's chief negotiator last month. A Government spokesman said today the UK was committed to working hard to agree underlying principles for a post-Brexit deal with the European Union in talks this month. The spokesman added: "The UK remains committed to working hard to find an early understanding on the principles underlying an agreement out of the intensified talks process during July, as agreed at the High Level Meeting on 15 June."
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Separately, it was revealed Mr Johnson had dropped in unannounced to a dinner party at which Mr Barnier and UK negotiator David Frost were both guests to underline the urgency of the situation, with the PM keen to get something wrapped up by the end of the month. Mr Francois, chairman of the European Research Group (ERG), and MP for Rayleigh and Wickford had previously sought to lay down the law in a "Missive from a Free Country" sent to Mr Barnier on June 26, in which he demanded Brussels "change some of the unreasonable demands that the EU is currently making". Specifically, he stressed there was no way the European Court of Justice could have any role in "the UK's national life" after the end of the year. Mr Barnier has now replied in a letter taking issue with a number of Mr Francois' points. He pointed out the political declaration ratified by Parliament does allocate a role to the ECJ as part of arrangements for Northern Ireland - the so-called Northern Ireland protocol. The political declaration, he added, had been "agreed by your Prime Minister and voted for by the House of Commons, including yourself, as part of the Withdrawal Agreement ratification".
Boris Johnson and Michel Barnier
Mr Barnier also took the time to acknowledge the existence of the ERG, a likely response to a passage in Mr Francois's letter in which he said: "It is possible that you may have heard of us". He said: "I have over the past years met British politicians representing the entire spectrum of views on Brexit, including the European Research Group, which you chair." He also took a subtle swipe at Mr Francois's reference to living in a free country while lamenting the UK's decision to quit the bloc, writing: "In this same spirit, we approach the ongoing negotiations with your great - and indeed free - country, which will remain a close friend, neighbour and ally of the European Union." In a message to Mr Barnier today, Mr Francois said: “The Political Declaration is indicative and not legally binding – as you well know. “Nevertheless, I’m delighted that further talks are now agreed. As you often remind us, ‘the clock is ticking’.” SCROLL DOWN FOR REGULAR UPDATES
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Saturday, July 11
05:30am update: European bond firm bets on hard Brexit BlueBay Asset Management, a European bond firm, has concluded Britain is probably on course for either a no deal or very limited deal Brexit as UK-EU negotiations remain gridlocked. A couple of weeks ago the firm placed a large negative bet on the pound suggesting the UK currency is likely to significantly lose value. Speaking to the Financial Times Kaspar Hense, a BlueBay fund investment manager, said: "We will see a hard Brexit for sure. "Market haven’t yet priced in the significant impact on the City of London and the risks to the UK economy. The only way out will be a weaker pound and the central bank, to some extent, devaluing the currency." 03:15am update: Irish minister says 'worry and concern' is back over Brexit Barry Cowen, Ireland's minister for agriculture, warned last night that "worry and concern" are "back on the table" as negotiations between the UK and EU have failed thus far to produce a trade deal. Mr Cowen was speaking on a live panel discussion, hosted by Teagasc in association with AgriLand, which focused on the Irish beef sector. On Brexit he commented: "The whole fear, worry and concern of Brexit is back on the table. There is a slow pace to the development of a trade deal between the EU and the UK and that’s worrying. "We are pressing upon them the key demands that we have have such as a trade deal being successful. We can’t afford a situation of a quota and tariff systems; that could be to the detriment to the agricultural sector,” he highlighted." 01.31am update: Michel Barnier says he can't see the "value" of Britain leaving the EU Michel Barnier, the EU's chief Brexit negotiator, said he couldn't see the "added value" of Brexit in a letter to Mark Francois, chair of the eurosceptic European Research Group. Responding to a letter from Mr Francois the EU leader wrote: "While nobody has been able to demonstrate to me the added value of leaving the most integrated economic and free trade area in the world, I have always respected the UK's decision to withdraw from the EU". However he added Britain, which he termed a "great, and indeed free, country" will "remain a close neighbour, friend and ally of the European Union". The UK is currently trying to negotiate an agreement with the EU to ensure free trade remains when Britain exits the Brexit transition period at the end of this year. 00.01am update: Warning no deal Brexit could increase food prices The UK could see food price rises if if leave the Brexit transition period at the end of the year according to the British Retail Consortium. In a statement the industry body claimed a no-deal exit would hit "ordinary household goods that every consumer has to buy and replenish". It added: "It doesn’t matter whether it’s Great Britain, or it’s Northern Ireland, the people who will suffer most because of these cost rises will be those people who are most economically vulnerable". The Government has already ruled out applying to extend the Brexit transition period. James Bickerton takes over live reporting from Richard Percival
Friday, July 10
9pm update: New secret Brexit customs centre to be built The government has purchased 22 acres of land for a new customs clearance centre for thousands of lorries that come from Dover, the Guardian reports. It is understood that it will be the first customs centre erected in the UK dealing with goods coming from the EU for 27 years. The local council and residents in Ashford have only just been informed of the plan however, according to the publication, through letters. The letter, from MP Rachel Maclean, parliamentary undersecretary of state for transport, said: “We are writing to inform you that the Department of Transport has purchased the site known as ‘MOJO’ (Church Road, Sevington Ashford). "Preliminary works are scheduled to take place on the western parcel from Monday 13 July 2020, this will include: securing the site with fencing, grass and weed vegetation cutting, extensive survey work, the constructing of a temporary site office, and the constructing of a temporary access to the site from the A2070 link road." 7:30pm update: Get Ready for Brexit Campaign set to be launched A new multi-million-pound Get Ready for Brexit campaign will be launched by the UK government on Monday. The campaign will be aimed at informing businesses of the complex customs regime they will face as the UK is deadlocked in securing a Brexit deal. Details of the campaign will be revealed by Michael Gove on Sunday.
The UK government will launch a Get Ready for Brexit Campaign on Monday.
6pm update: Sterling not strong against the Euro Sterling traded higher versus the U.S. dollar but was unmoved against the euro on Friday, with investors mostly staying on the sidelines. Very little has been achieved in negotiations between Britain and the European Union on a trade deal following Britain's departure from the bloc. This leaves sterling traders unsure of how to approach the pound with the currency driven mostly by external factors. Stephen Gallo, a currency analyst at BMO Capital Markets, thinks the pound will weaken given that countries that are net exporters have an advantage over Britain. He added: "The UK's trade policies will be in flux beyond 2020. "What 2020 will do is create a starting point for UK/EU-27 trade adjustments going forward" adding that "regulatory alignment, dispute arbitration and trade friction are likely to crop up as issues over the medium-term. "We would be inclined to fade sterling strength versus the euro on a move back to 0.8650." 5pm update: Brexit will hold back UK economic recovery, warns Moody's Britain will suffer the sharpest peak-to-trough economic slump of any major economy this year, rating agency Moody's warned today. Moody's said the UK government's latest £30 billion stimulus package, announced this week, would aid a gradual economic recovery but add further pressure to the UK's fiscal position. They added: "The UK's public debt ratio will likely rise by 24 percentage points of GDP or more relative to 2019 levels. "We forecast a contraction of 10.1 percent in the UK's GDP for this year, but expect a gradual subsequent recovery on the back of the easing in lockdown measures, with growth rebounding to 7.1 percent next year". The agency said high-frequency indicators suggested that economic activity has gradually begun to recover after reaching a trough in April when GDP is estimated to have contracted by just over 20 percent. They added: "Our forecast estimates a sharper peak-to-trough contraction for the UK than for any other G-20 economy, taking account of our view that lingering uncertainty around Brexit will hold back the recovery in the second half of the year." Moody's rates Britain Aa2 with a negative outlook following a series of cuts since the country voted to leave the European Union in mid-2016. 4pm update: EU threat to strict border controls after the Brexit transition period The EU has given a harsh warning of the barriers that will go up between the EU and the UK when the transition period expires in December. In a Commission document, Brits are being told that they will be "subject to thorough checks" at borders when entering EU countries with the exception of Ireland, as they will be "treated as third-country nationals".
A new tight border will be implemented after the transition period.
2.56pm Tory MP hails Williamson's post-Brexit vision for education Tory MP Robert Halfon has welcomed Education Secretary Gavin Williamson's decision to tear up a commitment to send 50 percent of young people to university in favour of a "German-style" further education system. Harlow MP Mr Halfon hailed Mr Williamson's "bold commitment". Mr Williamson yesterday said a rebalance towards further education was vital for the UK's economic recovery following COVID-19, saying for decades the country has "failed" to give it the investment it deserves. He added: "As we emerge from COVID, further education will be the key that unlocks this country’s potential and that helps make post-Brexit Britain the triumph we all want, and the triumph our young people all deserve." 2.12pm update: Boris Johnson renews 'no Brexit fudge' promise to Brexiteers as Barnier issues slap down Boris Johnson issued a renewed pledge to concerned Brexiteers to reassure them there will be "no fudge" during Brexit trade negotiations, political commentator Patrick Maguire claimed. Boris Johnson was forced to issue a reassurance to European Research Group (ERG) members concerned about another Brexit "fudge" from the British Government. Times Radio reporter Patrick Maguire suggested the Prime Minister had to renew his pledge of straightforward talks after former ERG chair Steve Baker warned the UK would remain in the customs union past the transition period. Mr Maguire said: "Boris Johnson even took to the European Research Group Whatsapp group on the day of Rishi Sunak’s mini-budget when Steve Baker, Mark Francois’ slightly more sinister predecessor, warned he thought we were going to stay in the customs union. 1.38pm update: 'Hope for the best, prepare for the worst' Belgian Prime Minister Sophie Wilmese has welcomed the announcement of a 5 billion euro rescue package for countries like hers, which are likely to be hardest hit by Brexit, irresepective of whether a trade deal is agreed. Commenting on the proposal, which will be debated by the 27 national EU leaders in Brussels next week, she said: "Hope for the best, prepare for the worst: a sound principle in politics. "Proposal for a new Brexit adjustment reserve to counter consequences in member states worst affected is a very good signal to start the negotiations." Ireland is also likely to be one of the countries in need of financial assistance. 1.15pm update: EU denies demanding UK dropped support for COVID-19 vaccine programmes The EU has described claims it demanded the Government governement dropped its support for coronavirus vaccine programmes in the UK as “not true and misleading”. The UK will today reject an invitation to participate in the EU vaccine programme as a result of concerns about delays getting doses into the country. Anonymous Westminster sources have claimed the EU initially asked the Government to drop its support for UK vaccine programmes including those underway at Oxford University and Imperial College. EU spokesman Eric Mamert insisted the claim was “not true and misleading”. He said the EU will "always promote all means that would result in the quick finding and production of a successful vaccine". Mr Mamert rejected suggestions the EU would put the UK at the back of the queue when it came to handing out the vaccines, stressing doses would be "distributed according to population". 12.54pm update: Brexit no deal collapse would be 'DISASTER' for Merkel A Brexit no deal would be an “economic disaster” for German companies, it has been warned. The managing director of the Federation of German Industries (BDI) warned Britain unshackling from the EU without an agreement would be “the worst result for all sides”. Joachim Lang said Brexit would trigger chaos and warned London would face “a hard break” in the event of a no deal. He said: “Without clear guidelines for the movement of goods, Brexit will become an economic disaster for companies "A British exit from the EU without an agreement would be the worst result for all sides. "If London doesn't move on key issues, British companies will also have to face a hard break."
Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel
Brexit: Francois slams ‘ludicrous’ Barnier for extension demands
12.35pm update: EU launches emergency €5billion Brexit fund to prop up states worst-hit by UK leaving The European Union has announced proposals for a multi-billion euro emergency Brexit fund to help pay for any damages caused by Britain's departure from the bloc. European Council President Charles Michel said the €5 billion reserve would be used to “counter unforeseen circumstances” of Brexit. Announcing his plans for the EU’s next budget, the eurocrat said: “Brexit is challenging for all of us. And that’s why we propose a Brexit reserve of five billion. "We will create another reserve in order to counter the unforeseen consequences in the most-affected member states and sectors.” 12.06pm update: Boris Johnson crashes Brexit dinner to warn Michel Barnier deal must be done this summer BREXIT talks are back on track after Boris Johnson surprised Michel Barnier with an unexpected appearance during the latest round of discussions. Mr Johnson personally interupted a meeting between UK negotiator David Frost and his EU counterpart Mr Barnier earlier this week. The PM met with Mr Barnier before a crunch dinner on Tuesday, reminding the EU talks chief he expected a deal this summer. The event was aimed at allowing Mr Barnier and Mr Frost to meet in a more informal setting. A UK Government spokesman said: "The PM briefly dropped in ahead of dinner and reiterated his desire for the intensified process to reach an outline agreement this summer." 11.57pm update 'Unelected commissioners!' Mark Francois hits back at Barnier after brutal letter Mark Francois has hit back at Michel Barnier's claim Britain's departure from the European Union is pointless. In response to a letter from the Brussels bureaucrat, Mr Francois insisted freeing the country from the clutches of “unelected commissioners” would be a suitable reward for the millions of voters who backed Brexit. The Conservative MP for Rayleigh and Wickford added: "No one has ever demonstrated to me the added value of remaining in the EU and being governed by a bunch of unelected commissioners. “It seems 17.4 million UK citizens felt similarly. As you rightly acknowledged, we are now a free country – and indeed very happy to be so.”
Michel Barnier and David Frost at Number 10
10.52am update: UK "committed to a deal", says spokesman The UK Government has emphasised its commitment to a trade deal by the end of the year after a warning by Brussels yesterday that the two sides remained far apart on key issues. A UK Government spokesman said the UK was committed to finding an early understanding on the principles underlying an agreement out of the intensified talks process during july, as agreed at the high level meeting on June 15. 10.39am update: Guy Verhofstadt turns on Angela Merkel with scathing Germany attack Guy Verhofstadt, the European Parliament's Brexit representative and a frequent critic of the UK's decision to leave the bloc, has turned on Angela Merkel in a scathing tweet over Germany's supposed reluctance to take a tougher stance against China. The EU chief suggested “selling cars” to China was “more important” to Germany than taking a “firm stance” on Beijing. Mr Verhofstadt warned the EU will “never” be able to put in a more “robust” policy against the Asian superpower. He tweeted: “As long as selling cars to China is more important to Europe, especially to Germany than taking a firm stance on the Chinese crackdown on human rights in Hong Kong, Tibet and Xinjang, we will never be able to put in place a more robust EU-China policy.” 10.20am update: EU issues new Brexit advice The European Commission has published advice aimed at helping public bodies, businesses and citizens prepare for the the end of the transition period. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said: "The British people decided in a democratic election to leave the European Union and its benefits. "This means that no matter how hard we now work towards a close partnership agreement, our relationship will inevitably change. "My top priority is to ensure that EU citizens and businesses are as well prepared as possible for 1 January 2021."
Ursula von der Leyen at the European Parliament
9.48am update: Michel set to propose scaled-back EU budget European Council President Charles Michel is due to propose a smaller 2021-27 EU budget than previously envisaged, officials said on Friday, in a bid to make the bloc's mass economic stimulus more palatable to thrifty northern member states with the UK's departure looming. With the EU economy headed for its worst recession, the bloc is haggling over how to finance recovery from the coronavirus pandemic with the frugal, wealthy north facing off against the high-debt southern countries hit harder by COVID-19. Under discussion is the bloc's next budget, so far envisaged at 1.1 trillion euros, and an attached 750-billion-euro recovery fund. The 'frugals' want a smaller budget and economic reforms as a condition for accessing the extra funds. The 27 national EU leaders are due to meet in Brussels next week for their first face-to-face talks since coronavirus drove Europe into lockdown in March to bargain over the proposal. 9.30am update: GBP holds steady despite threat of final Brexit trade talks The pound to euro exchange rate remained set in its "rangebound" territory despite the potential threat from the final round of the UK-EU negotiations. Is now the best time to get euros? Despite a series of highs and lows in recent days, the pound is rounding off the week in a steady position against the euro. Though the early conclusion of "informal" Brexit trade talks threatened to shake any strength the GBP has retained, it is likely sterling will remain in the same position as it moves into the weekend. The pound is currently trading at a rate of 1.1166 against the euro according to Bloomberg at the time of writing. 9.15am update: Furious Peter Bone shuts down BBC over 'leaked letter' on post-Brexit border fears Tory MP Peter Bone lashed out at a reportedly leaked letter from Cabinet minister Liz Truss, which claimed that there could be massive issues with the UK's plan for border control after leaving the EU. The EU Commission has unveiled its plan for the end of the Brexit transition period, prompting concerns about the UK-EU border arrangements. Despite being set to leave the EU at the end of the year, the UK has announced that full border controls on goods will not come into effect until next July. Conservative MP Mr Bone rubbished concerns that the delay could lead to risks of smuggling when he was confronted by a leaked letter from Liz Truss on BBC Newsnight. 8.53am update: Supermarkets vow never to stock chlorinated chicken Supermarket chains have pledged never to stock chlorinated chicken or hormone-treated beef, regardless of any trade deal the UK may strike with the USA. An M&S spokesman told the Business Insider website: "Our commitment to our customers and family of 10,000 British farmers has not and will not change. "Our promise is that we only ever source our quality fresh food from Select Farmers we know and trust. That means our customers can be confident that we will never sell chlorinated chicken or hormone-treated beef." A Sainsbury's spokesman said: "We are committed to upholding high standards for our customers and will never sell these products." Meanwhile a spokesman for the Co-op said: "The Co-op has a clear policy to only source 100% British meat."
Newsnight: Peter Bone labels report on smuggling 'wrong'
8.37am update: Brexit free trade deal ‘very close’ – UK finalising comprehensive agreement with Turkey Turkey is "very close" to signing a post-Brexit free trade agreement with the UK covering manufactured goods, agriculture and services, the country's Foreign Minister has revealed. Mevlut Cavusoglu has been in London this week meeting Boris Johnson and Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab. He said in principle there have been no differences over a potential deal, but that some technical issues need to be ironed out. Turkey's Foreign Minister told the Financial Times: “It’s going very well and we are very close to finalising it. “We agreed already with the UK that in the post-Brexit era we will increase our bilateral trade; in volume we set a $20billion bilateral trade target. "If you look at the volume of our bilateral trade, 95 percent of it is industrial products, and we agreed on that, and five percent is agriculture and services." 8.35am update: "Timetable is YOUR Government's choice," says Barnier In the course of his letter to ERG chief Mark Francois, EU negotiator Michel Barnier also regretted the lack of progress in ongoing talks aimed at striking a trade deal with the UK - while taking a swipe at Boris Johnson's refusal to countenance an extension to the transition period. He wrote: "A restricted round of negotiations took place between 29 June and 2 July and subsequent rounds are foreseen in July, August and September. "However, let me underline that what matters more than the format of the talks is progres on substance and for that moment, results have been disappointing. "We will continue to work with determination to conclude the negotiations with success as we continue to believe that this can be done despite the short time available, which is the choice of your government."
Brexit timetable
8.21am update: France receives nearly THREE times more funding than UK The European Union continues to dish out billions more to France than the UK for farming, despite it being one of the wealthiest and prosperous nations in the bloc, new figures reveal. Analysis from pro-Brexit group Facts4EU has shown the major gulf within the bloc's funding for nations on funding, with France receiving around two-and-a-half-times as much money from Brussels than the UK for farming. France, which is the bloc's second richest economy, has been protective over the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), which Facts4EU argues is because it continues to be the biggest beneficiary of the subsidies handed out for farming. Across the past 10 years, the bloc has given around 40 percent of its budget to CAP projects, and according to European Commission data released last month, in 2019 this worked out at around €54.5billion (£48.8billion). 8.13am update: Barnier's reply to Francois: 'You voted for it Mark' Michel Barnier has hit back at Mark Francois - by pointing out the eurosceptic Tory MEP voted for the political declaration which the eurosceptic Tory MP objected to in his letter to the EU's chief negotiator last month. Mr Francois, chairman of the European Research Group (ERG), sought to lay down the law in a "Missive from a Free Country" sent to Mr Barnier on June 26, in which he demanded Brussels "change some of the unreasonable demands that the EU is currently making". Specifically, he stressed there was no way the European Court of Justice could have any role in "the UK's national life" after the end of the year. Mr Barnier has now replied in a letter taking issue with a number of Mr Francois' points. He pointed out the political declaration ratified by Parliament does allocate a role to the ECJ as part of arrangements for Northern Ireland - the so-called Northern Ireland protocol. The political declaration, he added, had been "agreed by your Prime Minister and voted for by the House of Commons, including yourself, as part of the Withdrawal Agreement ratification".
Michel Barnier pointed out that Mr Francois had voted for the PD (underlined by Express.co.uk)


thedailyexpress--2020-07-10--Brexit space deal 'huge statement of confidence' in power of Global Britain

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Richard Tice explained Boris Johnson has made a `` huge statement of confidence '' for post- Brexit Britain after buying a substantial share in satellite operator OneWeb .
The operator , which began as WorldVu in 2012 , has 74 satellites already in orbit , as it ramped up launches immediately before collapsing in late March .
The UK Government and Indian telecoms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would together put up money to buy OneWeb .
Speaking to Brexit Watch , Mr Tice said : `` I was just in the last few days when the Government confirmed that it has successfully bid to invest £400 million in a substantial stake in the satellite business called OneWeb .
`` That 's a huge statement of confidence in building a network of low orbit satellites which could be really good for improving broadband signals all over the country .
`` That was a real statement of intent and again , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` That is a post-Brexit opportunity and there are lots of them . ''
READ MORE : UK 's critical role in WTO overhaul after no deal exposed

Brexit: Tice says he's 'delighted' at UK's OneWeb space deal
Richard Tice explained Boris Johnson has made a "huge statement of confidence" for post-Brexit Britain after buying a substantial share in satellite operator OneWeb. The operator, which began as WorldVu in 2012, has 74 satellites already in orbit, as it ramped up launches immediately before collapsing in late March. The UK Government and Indian telecoms conglomerate Bharti Enterprises said last week they would together put up money to buy OneWeb.
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Speaking to Brexit Watch, Mr Tice said: "I was just in the last few days when the Government confirmed that it has successfully bid to invest £400 million in a substantial stake in the satellite business called OneWeb. "That's a huge statement of confidence in building a network of low orbit satellites which could be really good for improving broadband signals all over the country. "That was a real statement of intent and again, the Government does deserve credit for that. "That is a post-Brexit opportunity and there are lots of them." READ MORE: UK's critical role in WTO overhaul after no deal exposed
Boris Johnson has invested £400million into Brexit space advancements
Richard Tice called the move a 'statement of confidence'
The UK is looking at adding positioning technology to new satellites to complement and add resilience to the American GPS system, two sources with knowledge of the matter said, after the country exited the EU's Galileo network as a result of Brexit. That secondary payload could be built in Britain, the sources said. The idea of providing internet services for remote regions is also attractive to the government. The satellites, which have a lifespan of about five years and are assembled in a highly automated factory run with Airbus, cost in the region of £700,00 each, the sources said.
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OneWeb was bought half by the UK and half by India
Brexit: Hilary Benn warns UK ‘not ready’ to leave EU
The rocket launches have run to around £55 million apiece, the sources said, carrying 34 satellites into orbit each time. In a statement, Business Secretary Alok Sharma said: "This deal underlines the scale of Britain's ambitions on the global stage. "Our access to a global fleet of satellites has the potential to connect millions of people worldwide to broadband, many for the first time, and the deal presents the opportunity to further develop our strong advanced manufacturing base right here in the UK." DON'T MISS Germany crisis: Brexit no deal collapse would be 'DISASTER' for Merkel [INSIGHT]
Francois hits back at Michel Barnier's claim Brexit has no added value [VIDEO]
Boris Johnson crashes Brexit dinner to issue Barnier with deal warning [ANALYSIS]
EU citizens moving to the UK


thedailyexpress--2020-07-10--SNP shamed: Thousands of British Troops to be compensated by Boris for Sturgeon tax hikes

The Ministry of Defence ( MoD ) has agreed to permanently reimburse 7,000 armed forces personnel who have been subject to higher tax rates in Scotland after an initial two year pilot .
An annual payment will now be permanently provided to serving personnel earning £28,443 or more a year with an average annual payment of £850 .
Mitigation of between £12 and £2,200 will be paid , with payments grossed up to take account of income tax and national insurance .
This would be provided regardless of where the soldiers are deployed or where their families are based , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concerns were raised by the department that the Scottish Government tax rates , which are higher than in England , could create low morale .
At a cost of £6.8 million a year , the MoD stressed it would “ protect nearly two-thirds of all armed forces personnel liable for Scottish Income Tax and required to pay more in tax ” .
They added it would also help with recruitment and retention of personnel , many of whom are in specialist engineering roles .
Among the locations where troops are stationed in Scotland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Britain ’ s nuclear deterrent and hunter-killer submarines and RAF Lossiemouth , home to half of the UK ’ s Typhoon force and submarine hunting maritime patrol aircraft .
Currently , in the present tax year , people in Scotland pay a tax rate of 20 percent between £14,585 and £25,158 and 21 percent up to £43,430 .
A starter rate of 19 percent applies above £12,500 and below £14,585 .
READ MORE : EU rejected : Scottish taxpayers to no longer foot cost of free uni This is higher than the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ earnings between £12,501 and £50,000 .
Alister Jack MP , Scotland Secretary , said : “ The UK ’ s Armed Forces make a huge contribution to Scottish communities and our economy .
“ I welcome the UK Government decision to permanently protect them from the Scottish Government ’ s decision to make Scotland the highest taxed part of the UK .
“ The professionalism , dedication and bravery of our servicemen and women can be seen throughout Scotland , the whole of the UK and across the globe , not least through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effort to combat the coronavirus pandemic.
” DO N'T MISS : Last laugh ?
Fears Sturgeon 's new hate crime law will ‘ restrict ’ jokes [ OPINION ] Boris warned : Sturgeon deputy will 'hold him to account ’ [ REVEAL ] Sturgeon humiliated : Rees-Mogg says independent Scotland bankrupt [ INSIGHT ] Minister of State for Defence , Baroness Goldie , added : “ Our Armed Forces serve the whole of the UK , so it is only right that they are treated equally and fairly wherever they are based .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ troops that they won ’ t be penalised for simply doing their duty by having to pay higher taxes in a certain part of the UK and they will be properly compensated in their payslips each year.
” In response to the concerns , a Scottish Government spokesperson , said : “ As a result of the Scottish Government ’ s progressive tax system , 56 percent of all Scottish taxpayers – including many armed forces personnel – will pay less income tax than they would if they lived elsewhere in the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ committed to supporting the armed forces community .
Scotland continues to be an attractive place to live , work and do business , with armed forces families in Scotland able to access many services and benefits – for instance , free prescriptions – that are not available elsewhere in the UK.
” MoD figures reveal that they spent nearly £1.76-billion with Scottish businesses in 2018/19 and an average of £320 expenditure per person each year .

PMQs: Raab pays tribute to 'heroic' armed forces in pandemic
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has agreed to permanently reimburse 7,000 armed forces personnel who have been subject to higher tax rates in Scotland after an initial two year pilot. An annual payment will now be permanently provided to serving personnel earning £28,443 or more a year with an average annual payment of £850.
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Mitigation of between £12 and £2,200 will be paid, with payments grossed up to take account of income tax and national insurance. This would be provided regardless of where the soldiers are deployed or where their families are based, the MoD said. It comes after concerns were raised by the department that the Scottish Government tax rates, which are higher than in England, could create low morale. At a cost of £6.8 million a year, the MoD stressed it would “protect nearly two-thirds of all armed forces personnel liable for Scottish Income Tax and required to pay more in tax”.
7,000 armed forces personnel will be covered.
Westminster will reimburse thousands of soliders who have paid Scottish tax rates.
They added it would also help with recruitment and retention of personnel, many of whom are in specialist engineering roles. Among the locations where troops are stationed in Scotland include HM Naval Base Clyde, home to Britain’s nuclear deterrent and hunter-killer submarines and RAF Lossiemouth, home to half of the UK’s Typhoon force and submarine hunting maritime patrol aircraft. Currently, in the present tax year, people in Scotland pay a tax rate of 20 percent between £14,585 and £25,158 and 21 percent up to £43,430. A starter rate of 19 percent applies above £12,500 and below £14,585. READ MORE: EU rejected: Scottish taxpayers to no longer foot cost of free uni
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RAF Lossiemouth is a major UK armed forces base.
This is higher than the England rate which is 20 percent on earnings between £12,501 and £50,000. Alister Jack MP, Scotland Secretary, said: “The UK’s Armed Forces make a huge contribution to Scottish communities and our economy. “I welcome the UK Government decision to permanently protect them from the Scottish Government’s decision to make Scotland the highest taxed part of the UK. “The professionalism, dedication and bravery of our servicemen and women can be seen throughout Scotland, the whole of the UK and across the globe, not least through their tireless work to support the UK-wide effort to combat the coronavirus pandemic.” DON'T MISS:
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Alister Jack has slammed the Scottish Government.


thedailyexpress--2020-07-10--Boris Johnson hints at huge change to UK's face mask rules as Britons come out of lockdown

Boris Johnson has hinted that the Government may toughen the rules on face coverings in England .
During the People 's PMQs , the Prime Minister said there needs to be `` stricter '' guidance on face coverings in certain areas .
His comments come as Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon made it compulsory for Scots to wear face masks in shops and on public transport .
In England , the public must wear a face covering on public transport .
Speaking on Facebook Live , Mr Johnson said : `` As we get the numbers down in the way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out outbreaks in the way that we are , I do think we need to be stricter in insisting people wear face coverings in confined spaces where they are meeting people they do n't normally meet .
`` We are looking at ways of making sure that people really do have face coverings in shops , for instance , where there is a risk of transmission . ''
It comes as Downing Street has faced questions about why more Cabinet ministers are not wearing face coverings after new figures suggested the majority of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
READ MORE : Sturgeon exposed : Ex-SNP reveals how Boris will be forced into indyref Fresh data from the Office for National Statistics indicated that 52 percent of adults in Britain had worn a face covering when leaving their home in the final week of June , up from 43 percent on the week before .
Regardless of whether they had worn a face coverings previously , 58 percent of the 1,788 adults quizzed between July 2-5 said they were very or fairly likely to wear one in the next seven days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ questions for Number 10 about why so few of the Government 's leading figures had been spotted wearing a face covering .
There have been no public sightings of Mr Johnson wearing a face covering while Chancellor Rishi Sunak , following his summer economic statement , was pictured serving food to customers at a Wagamama restaurant in central London without a non-surgical mask .
Government recommendations as part of the `` one metre-plus '' guidance are that measures such as wearing a face covering should be taken if people indoors can not keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A spokesman for the Prime Minister , asked about the lack of ministerial face covering appearances , said : `` I do n't spend my time with individual ministers but all the ministers abide by the social distancing guidance which is in place . ''
Mr Sunak has also been pictured greeting people this week by bumping elbows to avoid shaking hands .
BBC TV licence : Boris could decriminalise non-payment of fee [ INSIGHT ] Lord Heseltine 's Brexit defiance laid bare : 'We will rejoin EU ! '
[ ANALYSIS ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after no deal exposed [ VIDEO ]

Boris Johnson says UK need to be ‘stricter’ on face masks
Boris Johnson has hinted that the Government may toughen the rules on face coverings in England. During the People's PMQs, the Prime Minister said there needs to be "stricter" guidance on face coverings in certain areas. His comments come as Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon made it compulsory for Scots to wear face masks in shops and on public transport.
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In England, the public must wear a face covering on public transport. Speaking on Facebook Live, Mr Johnson said: "As we get the numbers down in the way that we have and we really stamp out outbreaks in the way that we are, I do think we need to be stricter in insisting people wear face coverings in confined spaces where they are meeting people they don't normally meet. "We are looking at ways of making sure that people really do have face coverings in shops, for instance, where there is a risk of transmission." It comes as Downing Street has faced questions about why more Cabinet ministers are not wearing face coverings after new figures suggested the majority of Britons are covering up while in public. READ MORE: Sturgeon exposed: Ex-SNP reveals how Boris will be forced into indyref
Boris Johnson has hinted at changes to face coverings in public
It has been made compulsory to wear a mask at shops and on public transport in Scotland
Fresh data from the Office for National Statistics indicated that 52 percent of adults in Britain had worn a face covering when leaving their home in the final week of June, up from 43 percent on the week before. Regardless of whether they had worn a face coverings previously, 58 percent of the 1,788 adults quizzed between July 2-5 said they were very or fairly likely to wear one in the next seven days. The level of usage provoked further questions for Number 10 about why so few of the Government's leading figures had been spotted wearing a face covering. There have been no public sightings of Mr Johnson wearing a face covering while Chancellor Rishi Sunak, following his summer economic statement, was pictured serving food to customers at a Wagamama restaurant in central London without a non-surgical mask.
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Downing Street has faced questions about why more Cabinet ministers are not wearing masks
Face masks are worn by government ministers insists Dinenage
Government recommendations as part of the "one metre-plus" guidance are that measures such as wearing a face covering should be taken if people indoors cannot keep two metres away from each other. A spokesman for the Prime Minister, asked about the lack of ministerial face covering appearances, said: "I don't spend my time with individual ministers but all the ministers abide by the social distancing guidance which is in place." Mr Sunak has also been pictured greeting people this week by bumping elbows to avoid shaking hands. DON'T MISS BBC TV licence: Boris could decriminalise non-payment of fee [INSIGHT]
Lord Heseltine's Brexit defiance laid bare: 'We will rejoin EU!' [ANALYSIS]
UK's critical role in WTO overhaul after no deal exposed [VIDEO]
Coronavirus symptoms


thedailyexpress--2020-07-10--SNP stats blunder: Scotland slammed by watchdog for 'unacceptable' use of coronavirus data

Figures released by Holyrood last month in a government news release show that 4,431 antibody tests have been completed so far .
These checks are used in Scotland for surveillance measures to provide population-level information on COVID-19 .
Dr Gregor Smith , Scotland ’ s Interim Chief Medical Officer ( CMO ) stressed COVID-19 antibody tests should be used to “ improve the understanding of the virus and in the clinical management of patients.
” But Dr Smith , who wrote to all Scottish NHS boards , stressed there was “ currently insufficient clinical evidence ” showing the degree of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of any protection .
He added : “ The only clinically safe option is to assume no meaningful immunity from a positive result until evidence shows otherwise.
” But the UK Statistics Authority ( UKSA ) have criticised the SNP led administration saying the figure can not be verified .
In a letter to the Interim Contact Tracing Director at Public Health Scotland and Scottish Government Chief Statistician , Ed Humpherson , Director General for Regulation at the UK Statistics Authority , said : “ Within the news release , it reported that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , for surveillance purposes , have been completed ’ .
“ There is no reference to the data source of the figure quoted in the news release .
“ To date , there has been no publication of routine serology ( antibody ) testing in Scotland .
“ As such , this figure can not be verified .
This is unacceptable for a figure of such importance used in a government news release.
” READ MORE : SNP shamed : Thousands of British Troops to be compensated by Boris The letter continued : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in our public statement of 18 May , is that any data used publicly by the Government should be published in an accessible form , with appropriate explanations of context and sources .
“ Antibody testing data are of particular interest to the public and to ensure public confidence and equality of access , we urge you to publish the data quoted in the Scottish Government news release.
” Monica Lennon MSP , Scottish Labour 's Health Spokeswoman branded the figures `` an embarrassing rap on the knuckles '' for the government .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ needs honest and accurate facts and figures on COVID-19 .
DO N'T MISS : Last laugh ?
Fears Sturgeon 's new hate crime law will ‘ restrict ’ jokes [ REVEAL ] Boris warned : Sturgeon deputy will 'hold him to account ’ [ INSIGHT ] Sturgeon humiliated : Rees-Mogg says independent Scotland bankrupt [ SCOTLAND ] '' The Health Secretary should apologise and publish this data without delay.
” The Scottish Government has been approached for comment .
It comes after the head of the NHS test and trace programme , Dido @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enough data on immunity ” for the mass roll-out of antibody tests to the public .
Baroness Harding stressed there was still work to be done on whether having COVID-19 antibodies helped fight off the illness , stating a limitation of the antibody test was that it only told a person whether they had had the virus or not .

Matt Hancock addresses 'scientific flaw' in antibody tests
Figures released by Holyrood last month in a government news release show that 4,431 antibody tests have been completed so far. These checks are used in Scotland for surveillance measures to provide population-level information on COVID-19.
Trending
Dr Gregor Smith, Scotland’s Interim Chief Medical Officer (CMO) stressed COVID-19 antibody tests should be used to “improve the understanding of the virus and in the clinical management of patients.” But Dr Smith, who wrote to all Scottish NHS boards, stressed there was “currently insufficient clinical evidence” showing the degree of protection antibodies give, or the duration of any protection. He added: “The only clinically safe option is to assume no meaningful immunity from a positive result until evidence shows otherwise.” But the UK Statistics Authority (UKSA) have criticised the SNP led administration saying the figure cannot be verified.
The government stats watchdog has slated Holyrood.
4,431 antibody tests were reported by Scotland.
In a letter to the Interim Contact Tracing Director at Public Health Scotland and Scottish Government Chief Statistician, Ed Humpherson, Director General for Regulation at the UK Statistics Authority, said: “Within the news release, it reported that ‘so far, 4,431 antibody tests, for surveillance purposes, have been completed’. “There is no reference to the data source of the figure quoted in the news release. “To date, there has been no publication of routine serology (antibody) testing in Scotland. “As such, this figure cannot be verified. This is unacceptable for a figure of such importance used in a government news release.” READ MORE: SNP shamed: Thousands of British Troops to be compensated by Boris
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Scotland CMO Dr Gregor Smith said antibody testing in Scotland was about understanding.
The letter continued: “Our expectation, as set out in our public statement of 18 May, is that any data used publicly by the Government should be published in an accessible form, with appropriate explanations of context and sources. “Antibody testing data are of particular interest to the public and to ensure public confidence and equality of access, we urge you to publish the data quoted in the Scottish Government news release.” Monica Lennon MSP, Scottish Labour's Health Spokeswoman branded the figures "an embarrassing rap on the knuckles" for the government. She added: “The Scottish public needs honest and accurate facts and figures on COVID-19. DON'T MISS:
Last laugh? Fears Sturgeon's new hate crime law will ‘restrict’ jokes [REVEAL]
Boris warned: Sturgeon deputy will 'hold him to account’ [INSIGHT]
Sturgeon humiliated: Rees-Mogg says independent Scotland bankrupt [SCOTLAND]
The UKSA has taken a hit at the Scottish government.
"The Health Secretary should apologise and publish this data without delay.” The Scottish Government has been approached for comment. It comes after the head of the NHS test and trace programme, Dido Harding, said there was “not enough data on immunity” for the mass roll-out of antibody tests to the public. Baroness Harding stressed there was still work to be done on whether having COVID-19 antibodies helped fight off the illness, stating a limitation of the antibody test was that it only told a person whether they had had the virus or not.
People should self-isolate for 14 days if they show symptoms.


thedailyexpress--2020-07-10--No deal Brexit benefits: The five ways a no deal you be good for YOU - Explained

We will use your email address only for sending you newsletters .
Please see our Privacy Notice for details of @ @ @ @ @ Sign up fornow and never miss the top politics stories again .
In 2016 , @ @ @ @ @ voted for the UK to leave the European Union .
Brexit has dominated headlines since @ @ @ @ @ Brexit will take is still being decided through talks between negotiators .
But what would @ @ @ @ @ , and could it positively effect the UK ?
The EU has regulations that apply @ @ @ @ @ health and safety and working hours - while the UK is not beholden to all @ @ @ @ @ to most , If the UK leaves without a deal , the UK will not @ @ @ @ @ remaining standards .
No-deal supporters said this could save businesses a considerable amount of money @ @ @ @ @ administrative burdens and 'red tape ' .
It is likely this could be reformed to @ @ @ @ @ economy and industries .

In 2016, 52 percent of the population voted for the UK to leave the European Union. Brexit has dominated headlines since, and the final form Brexit will take is still being decided through talks between negotiators. But what would a no-deal Brexit actually mean, and could it positively effect the UK?
Business regulations
The EU has regulations that apply to businesses and cover things health and safety and working hours - while the UK is not beholden to all of these, it adheres to most,
If the UK leaves without a deal, the UK will not be obliged to maintain the remaining standards.
No-deal supporters said this could save businesses a considerable amount of money as there will be fewer administrative burdens and 'red tape'.
It is likely this could be reformed to cater specifically to the UK economy and industries.


thedailyexpress--2020-07-10--Boris Johnson urges Brits to go back to work in shock U-turn on policy

Boris Johnson said people should `` try to lead their lives more normally '' as restrictions are eased after months of lockdown .
And he hinted that stricter rules on wearing face coverings in public places may be introduced in a bid to reduce the spread of coronavirus .
In an online question and answer session with the public , Mr Johnson said : `` I want people to go back to work as carefully as possible .
It 's very important that people should be going back to work if they can now .
`` I think everybody has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if you can ' - I think we should now say , well , 'go back to work if you can ' .
Because I think it 's very important that people should try to lead their lives more normally .
`` I want to see more people feeling confident to use the shops , use the restaurants , and get back into work - but only if we all follow the guidance . ''
He later added that people should only return if their company is obeying the guidelines and it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said that as the number of coronavirus cases falls , the rules on wearing face coverings need to be `` stricter '' .
READ MORE : Boris Johnson hints at huge change to UK 's face mask rules '' I do think we need to be stricter in insisting people wear face coverings in confined spaces where they are meeting people they do n't normally meet , '' he said .
`` We are looking at ways of making sure that people really do have face coverings in shops , for instance , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Face coverings are currently compulsory on public transport and in hospitals in England , but are only advised in other enclosed public spaces where social distancing is not possible and where `` you will come into contact with people you do not normally meet '' .
It comes as Culture minister Caroline Dinenage said she wears a mask `` all the time '' as the Government came under pressure to answer why more senior figures had not been pictured wearing face coverings .
Questions were raised on social media this week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his summer economic statement , was pictured serving food to customers at a Wagamama restaurant in central London without a face covering .
Government recommendations as part of the `` one metre-plus '' guidance are that measures such as wearing a mask should be taken if people indoors can not keep two metres away from each other .
There have also been no public sightings of Mr Johnson wearing a mask .
Ms Dinenage , when asked if she had worn a covering since the coronavirus pandemic started , said she regularly wore @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that she had posted an image of herself wearing it on social media .
POLL : Should councils and police be given powers to shut beaches ?
VOTE [ POLL ] Coronavirus update : Follow this diet to lower risk of severe symptoms [ INSIGHT ] Nicola Sturgeon briefing called out as a 'power trip ' in backlash [ ANALYSIS ]

Boris Johnson outlines whether you should go back to work
Boris Johnson said people should "try to lead their lives more normally" as restrictions are eased after months of lockdown. And he hinted that stricter rules on wearing face coverings in public places may be introduced in a bid to reduce the spread of coronavirus. In an online question and answer session with the public, Mr Johnson said: "I want people to go back to work as carefully as possible. It's very important that people should be going back to work if they can now.
Trending
"I think everybody has sort of taken the 'stay at home if you can' - I think we should now say, well, 'go back to work if you can'. Because I think it's very important that people should try to lead their lives more normally. "I want to see more people feeling confident to use the shops, use the restaurants, and get back into work - but only if we all follow the guidance." He later added that people should only return if their company is obeying the guidelines and it is safe to do so. The PM said that as the number of coronavirus cases falls, the rules on wearing face coverings need to be "stricter". READ MORE: Boris Johnson hints at huge change to UK's face mask rules
Boris Johnson has urged Britons to go back to work if they can
Boris Johnson said people should 'try to lead their lives more normally'
"I do think we need to be stricter in insisting people wear face coverings in confined spaces where they are meeting people they don't normally meet," he said. "We are looking at ways of making sure that people really do have face coverings in shops, for instance, where there is a risk of transmission." Face coverings are currently compulsory on public transport and in hospitals in England, but are only advised in other enclosed public spaces where social distancing is not possible and where "you will come into contact with people you do not normally meet". It comes as Culture minister Caroline Dinenage said she wears a mask "all the time" as the Government came under pressure to answer why more senior figures had not been pictured wearing face coverings.
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Mr Johnson hinted he would take further measures to make people wear masks
Boris Johnson says UK need to be ‘stricter’ on face masks
Questions were raised on social media this week about why Chancellor Rishi Sunak, following his summer economic statement, was pictured serving food to customers at a Wagamama restaurant in central London without a face covering. Government recommendations as part of the "one metre-plus" guidance are that measures such as wearing a mask should be taken if people indoors cannot keep two metres away from each other. There have also been no public sightings of Mr Johnson wearing a mask. Ms Dinenage, when asked if she had worn a covering since the coronavirus pandemic started, said she regularly wore face masks made by her son and that she had posted an image of herself wearing it on social media. DON'T MISS POLL: Should councils and police be given powers to shut beaches? VOTE [POLL]
Coronavirus update: Follow this diet to lower risk of severe symptoms [INSIGHT]
Nicola Sturgeon briefing called out as a 'power trip' in backlash [ANALYSIS]
Coronavirus symptoms