thedailyexpress--2020-03-04--Brexit LIVE: Ryanair boss O’Leary calls UK negotiators f***ing useless in foul Brexit rant

Boris Johnson 's chief negotiator David Frost and his 100-strong team opened formal talks with Michael Barnier ’ s EU counterparts in Brussels on Tuesday ahead of what could be nine-months of bruising negotiations as they attempt to find common ground in a number of areas .
Deep divides are already widening , particularly over the demands from the European Union for the UK to abide by certain standards and access for its fishermen in UK waters .
Mr Johnson has threatened to walk away from the negotiating table as early as June if he thinks a full deal can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the transition period on December 31 , leading to fears on a no deal Brexit .
But Ryanair boss Mr O ’ Leary has launched an extraordinary attack on the British negotiating team , warning a catastrophic collapse in talks could see Mr Johnson ousted as Prime Minister .
He told Politico : “ The Brits have no negotiating f***ing power .
This will finish in only two ways .
“ The British walk away , in which case they ’ ll be abandoned and there will be no food in the supermarket @ @ @ @ @ @ @ riots in the streets and Boris Johnson will be out of power .
Or they will roll over .
They will sell whatever deal they can f***ing do.
” Talks over a post-Brexit free trade agreement will continue until Thursday , with the latest round of talks set to take place in London later this month .
11.53am update : Britain vows not to undercut EU financial rules The UK is not planning to rip up the rulebook governing its huge financial services sector after the post-Brexit transition period ends , financial services @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU must assess whether UK-based banks , insurers and asset managers comply with rules that are `` equivalent '' or as robust as those in the bloc for granting access .
Mr Glen told the House of Lord 's sub-committee on financial affairs : “ There is no secret plan to deviate .
`` The core message that we have is we want to observe the highest standards.
” 10.50am update : German companies ‘ poised to relocate to UK ’ after Brexit on ONE condition EU chiefs could be issued a huge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( FTA ) is secured - as German businesses might find relocating en masse to post-Brexit Britain incredibly profitable , former Ukip MP Douglas Carswell told Express.co.uk .
This week , Britain and the EU kicked off the first round of talks on their future relationship .
While the two sides are set for a big showdown – as they have starkly different views on what constitutes fair competition between their economies – a trade deal with the US appears to be a lot more straightforward .
On Monday , International Trade Secretary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ negotiating aims and announced talks will start in the next few days .
The 180-page document pledges to protect the NHS , maintain food standards , lower import taxes , or tariffs , on many UK exports – and increase trade in services .
It estimates that a deal with the US could boost transatlantic trade by some £15.3billion , and add £3.4billion to the UK economy .
Moreover , according to former Ukip MP Douglas Carswell , the FTA could also deal a huge blow to the EU – as German businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ profitable .
9.30am update : Pound weakens against the US dollar and euro again Sterling has again weakened against the US dollar and euro as it slips back towards recent four-and-a-month lows .
The British currency was down 0.2 percent in early morning trading against the dollar at $ 1.2792 , and also fell by a third of a percent against the euro to 87.40 pence .
8.31am update : US trade deal will do more harm than good to UK economy - study More than half of the world ’ s supply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the US will do more harm than good to the UK economy , according to a new survey .
A study by the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply ( CIPS ) found found more than two-thirds ( 70 percent ) of supply chain professionals with international suppliers are worried UK standards could be sacrificed in any agreement with the US .
Just over half ( 54 percent ) believe a transatlantic accord could do “ more harm than good ” .
The Government published its negotiating mandate for trade talks with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK economy would grow by 0.16 percent ( £3.4billion ) following a post-Brexit trade deal with the US .
CIPS chief economist John Glen said : “ By the end of 2020 we may well have new trade deals with the EU and the US , but the question from the UK supply chain profession is loud and clear — at what cost ?
“ It is highly likely that negotiators from the US and elsewhere will call on the UK to water down consumer protections and quality standards to open the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interviewed 1,176 supply chain managers for the study between February 3 and 8 .

Brexit: UK prepared to 'walk away' from bad deal says Liz Truss
Environment Secretary George Eustice said the UK has a “strong hand” in negotiations, and claimed Germany and other EU countries who don’t have a strong interest in British waters would prevent France from derailing trade talks over the issue. He also confirmed the Government has increased its fleet of patrol vessels to monitor UK waters after reports French fishermen could block cross-channel ports with huge trawlers if they saw their access to British fishing grounds restricted. Mr Eustice told a House of Lords committee: "There will be some reduction in access, not least in the six-12 mile zone. But it's too early to say what access we would grant.
"There really isn't a precedent of linking a trade deal in the round with sacrificing or forfeiting your right as an independent coastal state." He also claimed manufacturing interests in Germany and Italy would stop the issue over fishing becoming an issue later down the line in a trade deal. The Environment Secretary said: "The member states that are are quite dependent on access to our waters are France - the Normandy fleet has quite a lot of access - Ireland, to a lesser extent the Netherlands and Belgium. "After that, there are many, many other member states who don't have access to our waters or our stocks. It would be quite a big ask for countries like Italy and Germany, who don't really benefit from access to UK waters, to say we are actually going to jeopardise a trade deal on all those important industrial goods that they do seek access to the UK market for.
Brexit latest: The UK has issued a furious warning to France over EU fishing rights
Prince William, seen drinking at an event in Ireland, called for a strong post-Brexit relationship with the country and the UK
"I'm not sure it's sustainable for the EU to hold to the position that some member states have been articulating." The UK is looking to secure an arrangement with the EU similar to Norway’s, with talks taking place place every year based on the scientific evidence on fish stocks. But the Environment Secretary warned that if a deal has not been agreed by Julye, the UK would then rely on its automatic status as an independent coastal state from the beginning of next year to determine access arrangements. Mr Eustice added: "If it were the case that a partnership agreement couldn't be concluded by July then it would be, under international law, the case in any event that we would become an independent coastal state and we would automatically take back control of our exclusive economic zone and that there would be an obligation on both us and the European Union to work towards a sensible annual negotiation at the end of this year." FOLLOW EXPRESS.CO.UK BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES:
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Prince William and Kate visit a farm in Ireland on the first royal tour of the country post-Brexit
Thursday March 5, 8am update: Blog closed This live blog is now closed. Please click here for today's Express.co.uk Brexit Live. 10.04pm update: No deal Brexit planning helped government prepare for coronavirus, says Leadsom Former business secretary Andrea Leadsom said preparations for a no-deal Brexit had aided the Government's response to the coronavirus outbreak. Mrs Leadsom told Sky News: "Ironically, I think a lot of the work we did last year preparing for the supposed no-deal Brexit on 31 October has stood the Government in incredibly good stead - looking at packages of support and how you might be able to help companies keep going should something dramatic happen. "I'm quite sure that some of that will be being dusted off with a view to looking at how that could be adapted." Asked if the Government should extend sick pay to gig economy workers who might need to self-quarantine, Mrs Leadsom said: "I'm sure the Government will be looking closely at what further support can be given and whether it is in the form of statutory sick pay which normally isn't available to non-standard employee arrangements. "I'm sure, as I say, there will be measures put in place to try and lend support." 8,55pm update: Prince William urges strong links between UK and Ireland post-Brexit The Duke of Cambridge has called on the UK and Ireland to work to maintain the bonds of friendship post-Brexit - and vowed the royal family will play its part. William said relationships between people were "more essential" than legal treaties and he was optimistic a "shared vision for a peaceful and prosperous future" would ensure the "precious bond" between the Irish and the British was not broken. The duke's comments came in a keynote speech in Dublin and were echoed earlier in the day by agriculture minister Michael Creed, who said Ireland's mission was to have "a very close relationship with the UK". The father-of-three and the Duchess of Cambridge are in Ireland for the first royal tour of the country after Britain left the EU on January 31. 7.51pm update: Brexit as good as England winning World Cup - Leadsom Andrea Leadsom has said the Brexit vote in June 2016 was as good as England winning the Rugby World Cup in 2003. She also praised Theresa May for her “hard work” during her stint in Downing Street She said: "The result of the EU referendum in June 2016 is right up there with England winning the World Cup for rugby 16 years ago. “It's right up there with the look on John Bercow's face when I told him to apologise for calling me a stupid woman, and it is a bit behind the happiness of my wedding day." Ms Leadsom added: "My own part in Brexit was always about doing what I thought was best for the UK, and whatever has been said about it, my decision to withdraw from the final two was to give the country the urgent certainty that it needed. "I was sorry to see the resignation of my right honourable friend for Maidenhead (Theresa May). “The leadership of our country and our party once again being challenged by the decision on the EU. "No-one could have worked harder than her, and I feel sure history will judge her kindly."
Andrea Leadsom likened the 2016 Brexit referendum result to England winning the World Cup
6.37pm update: Andrea Leadsom says Boris Johnson best person to seize Brexit opportunities Former business secretary Andrea Leadsom said that she genuinely believed Boris Johnson was "the right person to seize the opportunities that await us outside the EU" and that it was "an honour" to serve as business secretary in his first cabinet. She also wished new Business Secretary Alok Sharma "huge success" as COP president when the UK plays host later in the year. The South Northamptonshire MP announced she would now focus on the issue of early years from the backbenches. "When the Prime Minister asked me to step aside, he also gave me his word that he will enable me to take forward the early years work and I am delighted that the wheels are in motion," she said. "And I want to heartily congratulate him and Carrie for their decision to do their own bit of early years research." 5.39pm update: UK’s ‘lunatic fringe’ Brexit plans condemned by constitution secretary Holyrood's Constitution Secretary has urged rival parties to put aside their differences and join the Scottish Government in opposing the UK's "lunatic" Brexit plans. Mike Russell made the plea as he told MSPs the latest round of negotiations with the EU had begun without agreement from the devolved administrations over their involvement. He said this was "contrary to the devolution settlement" - noting devolved areas such as agriculture, fishing and the environment were among those being discussed in this latest stage of Brexit talks. On Monday, Boris Johnson's chief Europe negotiator David Frost sat down with his counterpart from the EU, Michel Barnier, as talks began to strike a post-Brexit trade deal. But Mr Russell said: "We reject the published mandate as it is. "We will make clear that the UK Government, if it attempts to speak on matters that are devolved, does not speak for us." In a statement to MSPs at Holyrood, he said: "The Scottish Government does not believe that Boris Johnson has any mandate, in any part of the UK, for a form of Brexit which was regarded as being on the lunatic fringe of politics, even during the June 2016 referendum. "That form of Brexit, which the UK now regards as optimum, is a Canada-minus deal, the most basic of free trade agreements. "Undoubtedly this will mean new barriers and borders, trade inhibiting rules of origin, customs difficulties and heavy regulatory requirements." This approach, Mr Russell argued, will severely impact "many of Scotland's most important sectors", such as seafood and farming. With the UK now in "an even more difficult phase of the Brexit process", he called on ministers in London to "move back from their aggressive rhetoric and ideological obsession with delivering a very hard Brexit".
Brexit latest: Michael O'Leary warned Boris Johnson could be oreced out as Prime Minister if trade talks collapse
Brexit: Eustice says UK’s fishing waters is a ‘powerful card’
4.18pm update: Brexit must not define Ireland or EU, says Varadkar Leo Varadkar has told a conference at Trinity College Dublin that while Brexit would define the UK for the next few decades the same must not be allowed to happen to Ireland or the EU. Ireland’s premier was speaking at an event to mark the 250th anniversary of the university's debating society, College Historical Society. The conference, entitled Europe and the Future, was hosted by the debating society and Institute of International and European Affairs (IIEA). Mr Varadkar told the audience: "We believe in the principles of the European Union, because we in Ireland know first-hand the value of European unity, sweeping away so many of the differences between north and south. “We must not let Brexit define us or define Europe. Yes, it is defining the UK, and probably will for the next few decades. "But we are in control of our destiny, and we must decide how we want to shape it. "I believe there are lessons that Europe can draw from recent events. "First, the learning from Brexit should be that working together, as we did in the past, we can solve the most intractable of problems." 3.17pm update: 'Pity' UK didn't see EU for what it truly was - Varadkar Irish premier Leo Varadkar has said that Brexit must not define Ireland or the European Union. Mr Varadkar told a "Europe and the Future" event at Trinity College Dublin that Brexit will define the UK for the next few decades. He also described the EU as a "steal when you look at" what Ireland puts in and what it gets out of the bloc. He added: "It's really cheap if you think about what we get back from European Union, for the amount that we contribute and it's a pity, I think in some ways, that it was never seen by the UK, not least in the last 30 years." Laura O'Callaghan takes over from Paul Withers. 1.22pm update: EU could push for ‘device’ to extend trade talks - warning Brexit's transition period could be extended if no trade deal is secured by July's deadline, a former EU official said. Ex-European Commission secretary-general David O’Sullivan claimed the UK be tied into a longer transition period extension if Brussels pressure succeeds. Mr O’Sullivan claimed an agreement could “buy” both sides “more time to continue the discussions”. He added the “device” would help resolve issues where there may be clashes and avoid a potential “cliff-edge” no deal. He told the Irish Times he did not think it was possible to agree a comprehensive agreement in the nine-month window. He said an agreement on extending the transition period could be made but it “would not be called an extension”.
1pm update: Fishing rights will not be linked to any EU trade deal - Environment Secretary George Eustice has said EU vessels will see their access to UK fishing grounds reduced, insisting there is no prospect of using the industry as a "bargaining chip" in trade talk. The Environment Secretary said the UK had a "strong hand" and confirmed that the Government had increased its fleet of patrol vessels to monitor UK waters. This comes after reports French fishermen could block cross-Channel ports with huge trawlers if they saw their access to British fishing grounds restricted. Mr Eustice said: "There really isn't a precedent of linking a trade deal in the round with sacrificing or forfeiting your right as an independent coastal state." 11.53am update: Britain vows not to undercut EU financial rules The UK is not planning to rip up the rulebook governing its huge financial services sector after the post-Brexit transition period ends, financial services minister John Glen has said. The EU must assess whether UK-based banks, insurers and asset managers comply with rules that are "equivalent" or as robust as those in the bloc for granting access. Mr Glen told the House of Lord's sub-committee on financial affairs: “There is no secret plan to deviate. "The core message that we have is we want to observe the highest standards.”
Brexit latest: Ursula von der Leyen wants to extend the transition period
10.50am update: German companies ‘poised to relocate to UK’ after Brexit on ONE condition EU chiefs could be issued a huge blow if a US-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is secured - as German businesses might find relocating en masse to post-Brexit Britain incredibly profitable, former Ukip MP Douglas Carswell told Express.co.uk. This week, Britain and the EU kicked off the first round of talks on their future relationship. While the two sides are set for a big showdown – as they have starkly different views on what constitutes fair competition between their economies – a trade deal with the US appears to be a lot more straightforward. On Monday, International Trade Secretary Liz Truss launched the country's five negotiating aims and announced talks will start in the next few days. The 180-page document pledges to protect the NHS, maintain food standards, lower import taxes, or tariffs, on many UK exports – and increase trade in services. It estimates that a deal with the US could boost transatlantic trade by some £15.3billion, and add £3.4billion to the UK economy. Moreover, according to former Ukip MP Douglas Carswell, the FTA could also deal a huge blow to the EU – as German businesses might find relocating to post-Brexit Britain incredibly profitable. 9.30am update: Pound weakens against the US dollar and euro again Sterling has again weakened against the US dollar and euro as it slips back towards recent four-and-a-month lows. The British currency was down 0.2 percent in early morning trading against the dollar at $1.2792, and also fell by a third of a percent against the euro to 87.40 pence.
Brexit latest: The UK and EU have the option of extending the transition period in June
8.31am update: US trade deal will do more harm than good to UK economy - study More than half of the world’s supply chain managers fear at post-Brexit trade deal with the US will do more harm than good to the UK economy, according to a new survey. A study by the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) found found more than two-thirds (70 percent) of supply chain professionals with international suppliers are worried UK standards could be sacrificed in any agreement with the US. Just over half (54 percent) believe a transatlantic accord could do “more harm than good”. The Government published its negotiating mandate for trade talks with the US on Monday, which estimated the UK economy would grow by 0.16 percent (£3.4billion) following a post-Brexit trade deal with the US. CIPS chief economist John Glen said: “By the end of 2020 we may well have new trade deals with the EU and the US, but the question from the UK supply chain profession is loud and clear — at what cost? “It is highly likely that negotiators from the US and elsewhere will call on the UK to water down consumer protections and quality standards to open the door to foreign competitors.” CIPS researchers interviewed 1,176 supply chain managers for the study between February 3 and 8.
Brexit latest: David Frost and Michel Barnier have opened formal talks on a UK-EU trade deal
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thedailyexpress--2020-03-05--Long-Bailey already hinting at fresh leader election... despite WEEKS left in current race

Rebecca Long-Bailey hinted she would want to hold another Labour leadership election before Britons go to the polls in 2024 .
BBC ’ s Andrew Neil asked : “ You would want to move to a system of mandatory re-selection for Labour MPs , they would need to reapply for their jobs before another election , other people could stand against them if they wanted to .
If that ’ s good enough for MPs , why not Labour leaders too ?
If you win this election would you submit yourself again to the membership before a general election ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Neil show , Ms Long-Bailey said : “ I don ’ t think that ’ s a bad idea .
“ I think it would be quite disruptive potentially to do that in the month ’ s before a general election but I certainly like your way of thinking .
“ When we have the general election after that if we don ’ t win the general election we will have another Labour leadership election .
“ Hopefully we don ’ t and hopefully I ’ ll be Prime Minister but I will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ within my constituency whether I ’ m a leader of not.
” During the show , Ms Long-Bailey was torn apart by the BBC host as she defended Labour ’ s general election manifesto .
Mr Neil compared the Salford and Eccles MP to Jeremy Corbyn and accused her of being a ‘ continuity Corbyn ’ candidate .
She said : “ I ’ m certainly not a continuation of Jeremy Corbyn or indeed any other member of the Shadow Cabinet.
” But the BBC host added : “ You wouldn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s election manifesto , you would just package it differently .
“ What you ’ re telling BBC viewers tonight is you would take the same old Corbyn chocolate bar and just give it a different wrapper.
” Ms Long-Bailey defended the accusation as she said : “ It ’ s not the same old chocolate Corbyn bar .
“ This is what the Labour Party fundamentally believes .
Why are we here ?
What is the Labour Party for ?
It ’ s for bettering people ’ s lives.
” The Shadow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a member at a recent event in Liverpool who claimed `` members of the Israeli lobby '' including Jewish Labour MP Dame Margaret Hodge had the greatest responsibility for preventing Mr Corbyn from becoming prime minister .
Labour humiliation : Jeremy Corbyn booed by crowd at award show [ INSIGHT ] Starmer furious as Andrew Neil accuses him of trying to sabotage Brexit [ VIDEO ] Labour meltdown : Moaning MPs turn on each other in bitter dispute [ INSIGHT ] She said : “ In my response I thought at the time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ why this particular gentleman was wrong but with retrospect I should 've called that out directly because it was anti-Semitic .
“ I should have challenged that specific element of that gentleman 's contribution directly and I wish I had done that because it was an anti-Semitic statement to make.
” The final leadership contender , Lisa Nandy , subjected herself to Mr Neil 's scrutiny in January .
Members and supporters began receiving ballots on February 24 .
Voting closes two days before the new leader is announced on April 4 .

Labour leadership: Long-Bailey on the ‘next leadership election’
Rebecca Long-Bailey hinted she would want to hold another Labour leadership election before Britons go to the polls in 2024. BBC’s Andrew Neil asked: “You would want to move to a system of mandatory re-selection for Labour MPs, they would need to reapply for their jobs before another election, other people could stand against them if they wanted to. If that’s good enough for MPs, why not Labour leaders too? If you win this election would you submit yourself again to the membership before a general election?”
Speaking on BBC’s Andrew Neil show, Ms Long-Bailey said: “I don’t think that’s a bad idea. “I think it would be quite disruptive potentially to do that in the month’s before a general election but I certainly like your way of thinking. “When we have the general election after that if we don’t win the general election we will have another Labour leadership election. “Hopefully we don’t and hopefully I’ll be Prime Minister but I will be going through my own selection process within my constituency whether I’m a leader of not.” READ MORE: Andrew Neil SAVAGES Long-Bailey as ‘same Corbyn chocolate bar’
Rebecca Long-Bailey hinted at wanting another Labour leadership election
Rebecca Long-Bailey endorsed plans to hold another internal election before the general election
During the show, Ms Long-Bailey was torn apart by the BBC host as she defended Labour’s general election manifesto. Mr Neil compared the Salford and Eccles MP to Jeremy Corbyn and accused her of being a ‘continuity Corbyn’ candidate. She said: “I’m certainly not a continuation of Jeremy Corbyn or indeed any other member of the Shadow Cabinet.” But the BBC host added: “You wouldn’t drop a single policy from Labour’s election manifesto, you would just package it differently.
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Rebecca Long-Bailey also defended claims she's comparable to Jeremy Corbyn
Andrew Neil and Long-Bailey clash over ‘continuity Corbyn’
“What you’re telling BBC viewers tonight is you would take the same old Corbyn chocolate bar and just give it a different wrapper.” Ms Long-Bailey defended the accusation as she said: “It’s not the same old chocolate Corbyn bar. “This is what the Labour Party fundamentally believes. Why are we here? What is the Labour Party for? It’s for bettering people’s lives.” The Shadow Business Secretary admitted regretting not directly challenging a member at a recent event in Liverpool who claimed "members of the Israeli lobby" including Jewish Labour MP Dame Margaret Hodge had the greatest responsibility for preventing Mr Corbyn from becoming prime minister. DON'T MISS Labour humiliation: Jeremy Corbyn booed by crowd at award show [INSIGHT]
Starmer furious as Andrew Neil accuses him of trying to sabotage Brexit [VIDEO]
Labour meltdown: Moaning MPs turn on each other in bitter dispute [INSIGHT]
Labour chart
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thedailyexpress--2020-03-05--Petrol fury: Tories warn of 'disaster' over budget plot to hit drivers with MORE tax

Rishi Sunak is poised to warn that prices at the pump will go up in the future , possibly from next year , at the Budget .
But MPs warned any increase would undermine the party ’ s credibility after Prime Minister Boris Johnson insisted he had “ absolutely no intention ” of putting up the levy during the election .
Ms Sunak is looking at announcing the end to a decade of fuel duty freezes as part of reforms to boost the UK ’ s environmental credentials .
New greener fuel to be installed in UK fuel pumps next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This is a totemic tax and we can ’ t balance environmentalism on the backs of working people .
“ We should incentivise people to go to green cars but not hit families and working people hard .
“ It would be an absolute disaster if we went back on what we said at the election .
We said we were going to be the party that would cut the cost of living for working people and that ’ s what the Conservative party should be about.
” Conservative MP Jack Lopresti said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with any increase even if it did not come into force until next year because the “ damage would just be postponed ” .
“ The points we are making about how it would hit already the highest taxed motorists in Europe , the strivers , that would still be the same next year , ” he added .

Rishi Sunak is poised to warn that prices at the pump will go up in the future, possibly from next year, at the Budget. But MPs warned any increase would undermine the party’s credibility after Prime Minister Boris Johnson insisted he had “absolutely no intention” of putting up the levy during the election. Ms Sunak is looking at announcing the end to a decade of fuel duty freezes as part of reforms to boost the UK’s environmental credentials.
New greener fuel to be installed in UK fuel pumps next year
Tory Robert Halfon said: “This is a totemic tax and we can’t balance environmentalism on the backs of working people.
“We should incentivise people to go to green cars but not hit families and working people hard.
“It would be an absolute disaster if we went back on what we said at the election. We said we were going to be the party that would cut the cost of living for working people and that’s what the Conservative party should be about.”
Conservative MP Jack Lopresti said he would be “very disappointed” with any increase even if it did not come into force until next year because the “damage would just be postponed”.
“The points we are making about how it would hit already the highest taxed motorists in Europe, the strivers, that would still be the same next year,” he added.


thedailyexpress--2020-03-04--Brexit threat: EU sends chilling warning to UK - ‘We like you, but we are not stupid!’

Katarina Barley , Vice President of the European Parliament , has hit out at Boris Johnson ’ s claims on Britain ’ s future post-Brexit .
The EU chief particularly fears Boris Johnson could turn the UK into a tax haven for companies - something the Prime minister has denied .
She told German news site T-Online : “ Why should we give you unlimited access to our single market if you try to outdo us with such competitive advantages at the same time ?
“ We like you , but we ’ re not stupid.
” Ms Barley continued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK wants to purse its desire to gain competitive advantages over the EU , Brussels will not grant Britain access to the single market .
She said : “ According to Johnson , Great Britain will try to gain competitive advantages with particularly attractive conditions .
“ Everyone here in Brussels has a clear stance on this , from the Council to Parliament to the Commission : if London wants to go this way , it will not have privileged access to the single market.
” The EU chief said companies are “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ within the EU , due to the benefits of the single market , than be based in the British Isles .
Ms Barley pointed out the three main issues facing the EU and the UK in the current trade negations : the retail sector , fishing and the rights of EU citizens .
She said : “ The biggest issue is the retail sector , because the British side has so far pretended that access to the single market can still be achieved while the European Union standards are not met .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit DELAY : EU could push for ‘ device ’ to extend trade talks “ There will also be a big discussion about fishing rights .
This is a side issue , but very important for the EU-UK relationship .
“ For us as the EU , it is also important how the rights of EU citizens in Great Britain are protected after Brexit.
” The EU chief said it was important agreement was reached over these three areas but expressed scepticism that a deal can be achieved within the time limit .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s not just these three areas .
DO N'T MISS : Brexit LIVE : UK issues furious warning to Macron over EU trade demand [ BLOG ] EU panic : German companies ‘ poised to relocate to UK ’ after Brexit [ INSIGHT ] UK fishermen rage as Brussels forces them to fling catch back into sea [ COMMENT ] “ In addition , there is , for example , the aspect of security , for example when exchanging data on terror suspects , but also when executing arrest warrants .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t even have a year !
We are now starting negotiations .
“ Ratification is still pending at the end of the year .
So we have about eight months .
“ This is so little that it can only really work if you they in the end : we leave certain areas as they are in accordance with European law.
” On Monday trade talks between the EU and the UK officially kicked off , as David Frost - Britain ’ s chief negotiator - headed to Brussels .

Brexit: Eustice says UK’s fishing waters is a ‘powerful card’
Katarina Barley, Vice President of the European Parliament, has hit out at Boris Johnson’s claims on Britain’s future post-Brexit. The EU chief particularly fears Boris Johnson could turn the UK into a tax haven for companies - something the Prime minister has denied.
She told German news site T-Online: “Why should we give you unlimited access to our single market if you try to outdo us with such competitive advantages at the same time? “We like you, but we’re not stupid.” Ms Barley continued her tough approach and warned if the UK wants to purse its desire to gain competitive advantages over the EU, Brussels will not grant Britain access to the single market. She said: “According to Johnson, Great Britain will try to gain competitive advantages with particularly attractive conditions.
The EU has sent a chilling warning to Boris Johnson
Katarina Barley hit out at Boris Johnson's claims on Britain's future post-Brexit
“Everyone here in Brussels has a clear stance on this, from the Council to Parliament to the Commission: if London wants to go this way, it will not have privileged access to the single market.” The EU chief said companies are “more likely” to choose a country within the EU, due to the benefits of the single market, than be based in the British Isles. Ms Barley pointed out the three main issues facing the EU and the UK in the current trade negations: the retail sector, fishing and the rights of EU citizens. She said: “The biggest issue is the retail sector, because the British side has so far pretended that access to the single market can still be achieved while the European Union standards are not met. This will not work. JUST IN: Brexit DELAY: EU could push for ‘device’ to extend trade talks
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Brexit trade talks commenced on Monday
Boris Johnson has said the UK could turn into a tax haven post-Brexit
Katarina Barley pointed out three main issues facing the EU
“In addition, there is, for example, the aspect of security, for example when exchanging data on terror suspects, but also when executing arrest warrants. “The second is: we don’t even have a year! We are now starting negotiations. “Ratification is still pending at the end of the year. So we have about eight months. “This is so little that it can only really work if you they in the end: we leave certain areas as they are in accordance with European law.” On Monday trade talks between the EU and the UK officially kicked off, as David Frost - Britain’s chief negotiator - headed to Brussels.
Brexit news: Transition talks began on Monday
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thedailyexpress--2020-03-04--Keir Starmer dodges Andrew Neil's question on 'secret, shadowy money' deals FOUR times

Sir Keir Starmer faced questions over which financier gave his Labour leadership campaign £100,000 as BBC ’ s Andrew Neil asked who his top five biggest donors are .
Mr Neil said : “ It ’ s causing you a problem .
Len McCluskey said that you ’ re having secret financiers sitting in the shadows .
You could solve that tonight by saying everyone who had bankrolled your campaign will be made public.
” 'Have you been listening to the red wall ?
! '
Neil astounded by Starmer Starmer furious as Andrew Neil accuses him of trying to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Andrew Neil show , Mr Starmer said : “ I ’ ve got a compliance team in place who are checking every donation is in accords with the rules .
“ Once they ’ ve done that they pass them to the parliamentary authorities to publish it .
“ Two lots have gone up , another has gone to the parliamentary authorities today .
We ’ re following the rules so that everything can be published .
“ This line of attack on me that I ’ m following the rules which the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” READ MORE : Labour meltdown : Moaning MPs turn on each other in bitter dispute

Keir Starmer avoids Andrew Neil’s question on campaign funding
Sir Keir Starmer faced questions over which financier gave his Labour leadership campaign £100,000 as BBC’s Andrew Neil asked who his top five biggest donors are. Mr Neil said: “It’s causing you a problem. Len McCluskey said that you’re having secret financiers sitting in the shadows. You could solve that tonight by saying everyone who had bankrolled your campaign will be made public.”
Speaking on BBC’s Andrew Neil show, Mr Starmer said: “I’ve got a compliance team in place who are checking every donation is in accords with the rules. “Once they’ve done that they pass them to the parliamentary authorities to publish it. “Two lots have gone up, another has gone to the parliamentary authorities today. We’re following the rules so that everything can be published. “This line of attack on me that I’m following the rules which the Labour Party said these are the rules.” READ MORE: Labour meltdown: Moaning MPs turn on each other in bitter dispute
Keir Starmer over the financing on his Labour leadership campaign
Andrew Neil asked who his top five biggest donors are
Mr Neil continued to ask: “Who has given you £100,000?” The interview comes after Mr Corbyn’s successor is expected to lead Labour to one of its worst local election results just weeks after taking over the party, according to an internal report. Councils in traditional heartlands are expected to fall in an echo of its dire general election campaign. Plymouth, Amber Valley in Derbyshire, Harlow and West Lancashire are all marked up to be certain losses and councils in so-called red wall areas like Sheffield could also go.
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Keir Starmer faced questions over which financier gave his Labour leadership campaign £100,000
Andrew Neil and Long-Bailey clash over ‘continuity Corbyn’
Elections are being held in 118 English local authorities on May 7 with eight mayoral polls and votes for 36 police and crime commissioners. Frontrunner Sir Keir Starmer is widely expected to be installed as Labour’s new leader on April 4. But with just a month to turnaround the party’s dismal standing with voters he appears doomed to lead the party to a staggering defeat, with 315 seats wiped out in the worst case scenario. The internal party document warns the party to brace for “substantial losses that may constitute one of our worst local election performances” in recent history. DON'T MISS Johnson in brutal SLAP DOWN of Jeremy Corbyn during PMQs [VIDEO]
Jeremy Corbyn shamed as Boris Johnson says Labour plan threaten public [INSIGHT]
Piers Morgan slams Sadiq Khan for coronavirus advice [VIDEO]
Labour chart
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thedailyexpress--2020-03-04--Long-Bailey crumbles in brutal car crash interview as Neil tears apart 'same prospectus'

Rebecca Long-Bailey faced a grilling from Andrew Neil as he likened her to Jeremy Corbyn for not wanting to change the Labour Party 's manifesto .
Speaking on BBC ’ s Andrew Neil show , Ms Long-Bailey said : “ I ’ m certainly not a continuation of Jeremy Corbyn or indeed any other member of the Shadow Cabinet.
” Mr Neil added : “ You wouldn ’ t drop a single policy from Labour ’ s election manifesto , you would just package it differently.
” The BBC host said : “ What you ’ re telling BBC viewers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ old Corbyn chocolate bar and just give it a different wrapper.
” Ms Long-Bailey defended the accusation as she said : “ It ’ s not the same old chocolate Corbyn bar .
“ This is what the Labour Party fundamentally believes .
Why are we here ?
What is the Labour Party for ?
READ MORE : Jeremy Corbyn shamed as Boris Johnson says Labour plan threaten public Mr Neil continued : “ It ’ s for winning elections and you want to proceed with the same prospectus that lost you the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Shadow Business Secretary defended the policies and claimed they were “ hugely popular ” .
She added : “ We lost so much trust in our Brexit platform and on other issues within the party that many of the popular policies just didn ’ t cut through.
” The interview comes after Mr Corbyn ’ s successor is expected to lead Labour to one of its worst local election results just weeks after taking over the party , according to an internal report .
Councils in traditional heartlands are expected to fall in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ campaign .
Plymouth , Amber Valley in Derbyshire , Harlow and West Lancashire are all marked up to be certain losses and councils in so-called red wall areas like Sheffield could also go .
Elections are being held in 118 English local authorities on May 7 with eight mayoral polls and votes for 36 police and crime commissioners .
Frontrunner Sir Keir Starmer is widely expected to be installed as Labour ’ s new leader on April 4 .
Keir Starmer dodges Andrew Neil 's question on 'secret , shadowy money ' [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s horror coronavirus remark sparks fury [ INSIGHT ] Rebecca Long-Bailey fails to rule out giving Corbyn top Cabinet job [ INSIGHT ]

Andrew Neil and Long-Bailey clash over ‘continuity Corbyn’
Rebecca Long-Bailey faced a grilling from Andrew Neil as he likened her to Jeremy Corbyn for not wanting to change the Labour Party's manifesto. Speaking on BBC’s Andrew Neil show, Ms Long-Bailey said: “I’m certainly not a continuation of Jeremy Corbyn or indeed any other member of the Shadow Cabinet.” Mr Neil added: “You wouldn’t drop a single policy from Labour’s election manifesto, you would just package it differently.”
The BBC host said: “What you’re telling BBC viewers tonight is you would take the same old Corbyn chocolate bar and just give it a different wrapper.” Ms Long-Bailey defended the accusation as she said: “It’s not the same old chocolate Corbyn bar. “This is what the Labour Party fundamentally believes. Why are we here? What is the Labour Party for? “It’s for bettering people’s lives.” READ MORE: Jeremy Corbyn shamed as Boris Johnson says Labour plan threaten public
Rebecca Long-Bailey faced savage questioning
Ms Long-Bailey defended Mr Corbyn's election policies
Mr Neil continued: “It’s for winning elections and you want to proceed with the same prospectus that lost you the worst defeat in 85 years.” The Shadow Business Secretary defended the policies and claimed they were “hugely popular”. She added: “We lost so much trust in our Brexit platform and on other issues within the party that many of the popular policies just didn’t cut through.” The interview comes after Mr Corbyn’s successor is expected to lead Labour to one of its worst local election results just weeks after taking over the party, according to an internal report.
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Andrew Neil said she was dressing up Labour's policies
Keir Starmer avoids Andrew Neil’s question on campaign funding
Councils in traditional heartlands are expected to fall in an echo of its dire general election campaign. Plymouth, Amber Valley in Derbyshire, Harlow and West Lancashire are all marked up to be certain losses and councils in so-called red wall areas like Sheffield could also go. Elections are being held in 118 English local authorities on May 7 with eight mayoral polls and votes for 36 police and crime commissioners. Frontrunner Sir Keir Starmer is widely expected to be installed as Labour’s new leader on April 4. DON'T MISS Keir Starmer dodges Andrew Neil's question on 'secret, shadowy money' [VIDEO]
Labour humiliation: MP’s horror coronavirus remark sparks fury [INSIGHT]
Rebecca Long-Bailey fails to rule out giving Corbyn top Cabinet job [INSIGHT]
Labour chart
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thedailyexpress--2020-03-04--'Utter nonsense!' Starmer erupts as Andrew Neil skewers him over bid to sabotage Brexit

Sir Keir Starmer was grilled by BBC ’ s Andrew Neil as the host accused him of trying to sabotage Brexit after he campaigned for Remain after Jeremy Corbyn tried to unify the party .
Mr Neil asked : “ If you have nothing bad to say about Jeremy Corbyn ’ s leadership , why did you take part in trying to topple him as leader in 2016 ?
” Speaking on BBC ’ s Andrew Neil show , Mr Starmer said : “ In the immediate aftermath for the referendum , we needed a change and I set out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ won a leadership contest .
“ I accepted the members wanted him as leader and I then served him for the next three and a half years.
” Mr Neil interjected : “ You said it was simply untenable to suggest that we can offer an effective opposition without a change of leader.
” Mr Starmer noted he served in the Shadow Cabinet under the Brexit brief .
READ MORE : PMQs : Commons groans at Jeremy Corbyn after Boris Johnson joke Mr Neil added : “ You talk about being the unity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cabinet , you continued to undermine Mr Corbyn .
When he was trying to hold the party together on Brexit , a really difficult thing , you went your own way .
“ You said you ’ re going to campaign for Remain .
You undermined his plan to try and get unity.
” “ Firstly , I made the speech on triggering Article 50 in the chamber where I said we accept the result and we want a deal , that was a very difficult speech .
“ It was said with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” The BBC host added : “ But by January 2019 you told Andrew Marr , ‘ I will campaign for in and I will vote for in ’ that was not Mr Corbyn ’ s collective policy.
” The Labour leadership frontrunner said : “ That was when we wanted to have a second referendum ” .
But Mr Neil noted it was said a month before Labour campaigned for a second referendum and said he “ broke ranks ” .
Mr Starmer also faced questions over the financing of his campaign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s causing you a problem .
Len McCluskey said that you ’ re having secret financiers sitting in the shadows .
You could solve that tonight by saying everyone who had bankrolled your campaign will be made public.
” Mr Starmer said : “ I ’ ve got a compliance team in place who are checking every donation is in accords with the rules .
“ Once they ’ ve done that they pass them to the parliamentary authorities to publish it .
“ Two lots have gone up , another has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We ’ re following the rules so that everything can be published .
“ This line of attack on me that I ’ m following the rules which the Labour Party said these are the rules .
”

Brexit: Andrew Neil says Starmer ‘tried to undermine Corbyn’
Sir Keir Starmer was grilled by BBC’s Andrew Neil as the host accused him of trying to sabotage Brexit after he campaigned for Remain after Jeremy Corbyn tried to unify the party. Mr Neil asked: “If you have nothing bad to say about Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership, why did you take part in trying to topple him as leader in 2016?”
Speaking on BBC’s Andrew Neil show, Mr Starmer said: “In the immediate aftermath for the referendum, we needed a change and I set out my reasons for it and Jeremy Corbyn won a leadership contest. “I accepted the members wanted him as leader and I then served him for the next three and a half years.” Mr Neil interjected: “You said it was simply untenable to suggest that we can offer an effective opposition without a change of leader.” Mr Starmer noted he served in the Shadow Cabinet under the Brexit brief. READ MORE: PMQs: Commons groans at Jeremy Corbyn after Boris Johnson joke
Sir Keir Starmer faced questioning from BBC’s Andrew Neil
Keir Starmer was grilled by BBC’s Andrew Neil as the host accused him of trying to sabotage Brexit
Mr Neil added: “You talk about being the unity candidate but when you rejoined the Shadow Cabinet, you continued to undermine Mr Corbyn. When he was trying to hold the party together on Brexit, a really difficult thing, you went your own way. “You said you’re going to campaign for Remain. You undermined his plan to try and get unity.” Mr Starmer replied: “Andrew that is utter nonsense. “Firstly, I made the speech on triggering Article 50 in the chamber where I said we accept the result and we want a deal, that was a very difficult speech.
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Keir Starmer was accused of 'undermining Corbyn'
Labour leadership: Ferrari asks Butler ‘why is it taking so long?’
“It was said with the full support of the Shadow Cabinet.” The BBC host added: “But by January 2019 you told Andrew Marr, ‘I will campaign for in and I will vote for in’ that was not Mr Corbyn’s collective policy.” The Labour leadership frontrunner said: “That was when we wanted to have a second referendum”. But Mr Neil noted it was said a month before Labour campaigned for a second referendum and said he “broke ranks”. Mr Starmer also faced questions over the financing of his campaign.
Brexit timeline


thedailyexpress--2020-03-04--Boris Johnson in brutal SLAP DOWN of Jeremy Corbyn as he exposes bullying rife in Labour

Addressing the House of Commons during Prime Minister 's Questions , the outgoing Labour leader claimed the Home Secretary should @ @ @ @ @ independent body following allegations she bullied her staff .
But as he blasted the Prime @ @ @ @ @ Boris Johnson promptly hit back with a backfiring attack on shadow chancellor John McDonnell .
@ @ @ @ @ “ The Home Secretary is doing an outstanding job , I have every confidence in @ @ @ @ @ are allegations , of course , it should be right that they ’ re properly @ @ @ @ @ and that is what is happening .
“ By I take no lessons about bullying @ @ @ @ @ party where female MPs where bullied so badly in the matter of anti-Semitism that they @ @ @ @ @ party .
“ And where the shadow chancellor has still not apologised for his call @ @ @ @ @ party to be lynched.
” READ MORE : Boris Johnson warned 'EU set to get @ @ @ @ @ talks

PMQs: Corbyn shut down by Johnson over bullying investigation
Addressing the House of Commons during Prime Minister's Questions, the outgoing Labour leader claimed the Home Secretary should be properly investigated by an independent body following allegations she bullied her staff. But as he blasted the Prime Minister over the issue, Boris Johnson promptly hit back with a backfiring attack on shadow chancellor John McDonnell.
The Prime Minister said: “The Home Secretary is doing an outstanding job, I have every confidence in her. “If there are allegations, of course, it should be right that they’re properly investigated by the Cabinet Office and that is what is happening. “By I take no lessons about bullying from a leader of a party where female MPs where bullied so badly in the matter of anti-Semitism that they’ve actually left the party. “And where the shadow chancellor has still not apologised for his call for a member of our party to be lynched.” READ MORE: Boris Johnson warned 'EU set to get more' out of trade talks
PMQs: Boris Johnson attacks Jeremy Corbyn as Labour leader calls for investigation into Priti Patel
PMQs: Jeremy Corbyn calls for an independent investigation into Priti Patel's conduct
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has asked the Cabinet Office to "establish the facts" following allegations that Home Secretary Priti Patel has breached the ministerial code. Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove confirmed the action being taken following an urgent question from Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn on Monday. He addressed the Commons after Sir Philip Rutnam quit as permanent secretary of the Home Office after rows with Ms Patel, with allegations of bullying levelled against the Home Secretary. Mr Gove told MPs: "Allegations have been made that the Home Secretary has breached the ministerial code. The Home Secretary absolutely rejects these allegations.
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Priti Patel bullying: Diane Abbott calls for Patel to ‘step down’
"The Prime Minister has expressed his full confidence in her, and having worked closely with the Home Secretary over a number of years, I have the highest regard for her, she is a superb minister doing a great job. "This Government always takes any complaints relating to the ministerial code seriously, and in line with the process set out in the ministerial code the Prime Minister has asked the Cabinet Office to establish the facts. "As is usual, the independent adviser on ministerial interests, Sir Alex Allan, is available to provide advice to the Prime Minister." DON'T MISS: Diane Abbott confronted on bullying as she calls on Patel to step down [INTERVIEW]
Priti Patel bullying allegations deepen as official inquiry launched [INSIGHT]
Patel on brink: Home Secretary warned she ‘can't win against machine' [VIDEO]
PMQs: Priti Patel denies allegations of bullying conduct against her
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thedailyexpress--2020-03-05--Fishing WAR: UK warns it will send in NAVY to stop EU boats entering British waters

Environment Secretary George Eustice made the promise to a House of Lords committee in the latest war of words between the UK and European Union over fishing access .
The hugely emotive issue is already threatening to derail post-Brexit trade talks .
Mr Eustice warned the Royal Navy now has three additional vessels and the Home Office will provide a further four , while the Government can also call in help from the private sector .
He insisted the UK is taking “ sufficient ” measures to protect British waters , telling the Lords committee an additional 50 fishery protection @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be “ aerial surveillance ” .
The Environment Secretary was asked about enforcement of the fisheries policy , and said : “ We have significantly increased our enforcement capability.
” “ The Royal Navy introduced three new offshore vessels but a decision was taken not to decommission the old ones so that there was additional capacity there .
“ We ’ ve also taken on some extra capacity from the private sector to give us extra vessels , we ’ ve launched a new joint maritime control centre together with both Border Force @ @ @ @ @ @ @ better coordinated use of the various assets that we have .
“ The Home Office have four cutter vessels that are suitable for some fisheries patrol work and we have trained some of their staff to become warranted fisheries officers and taken out an aerial surveillance contract as well .
“ We have trained a significant number - 50 new fisheries protection officers - to support us in this work and we ’ ve also taken out an aerial surveillance contract as well so we have increased it substantially .
“ We think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ insisted there is no chance of the UK using the fishing industry as a “ bargaining chip ” in post-Brexit trade talks .
The Environment Secretary said : “ There will be some reduction in access , not least in the six-12 mile zone , but it ’ s too early to say what access we would grant .
READ MORE : Brexit LIVE : Ignore EU bluffing !
Trade deal possible SOON “ There really isn ’ t a precedent of linking a trade deal in the round with sacrificing or forfeiting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” He also claimed manufacturing interests in Germany and Italy would stop the issue over fishing becoming an issue later down the line in a trade deal .
Mr Eustice added : “ The member states that are are quite dependent on access to our waters are France - the Normandy fleet has quite a lot of access - Ireland , to a lesser extent the Netherlands and Belgium .
“ After that , there are many , many other member states who don ’ t have access to our waters or our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'put Britain ’ s trading relationship with USA at risk ' [ COMMENT ] EU dethroned : Why Macron ’ s plot to sideline London will fail [ INTERVIEW ] Brexit : US trade talks could collapse due to ONE overlooked issue [ OPINION ] “ It would be quite a big ask for countries like Italy and Germany , who don ’ t really benefit from access to UK waters , to say we are actually going to jeopardise a trade deal on all those important industrial goods that they do seek @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I ’ m not sure it ’ s sustainable for the EU to hold to the position that some member states have been articulating.
” France has warned it will block cross-Channel ports if a trade deal is not agreed with the EU , and is prepared for a “ very nasty battle ” if fishing is excluded from any agreement .
British government ministers have been warned cross-Channel trade with the rest of Europe could be paralysed unless they agree to a post-Brexit free trade agreement with the bloc that is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told ministers there is a “ very realistic chance ” major ports , including Calais , could be blockaded by European Union fishing boats , according to The Times , in what is being described as a “ nightmare scenario ” .
Nearly a fifth ( 17 percent ) of the UK ’ s trade in goods , worth more than £100billion each year , passes between Dover and Calais .
But despite the entrance to the French port being a few hundred metres wide , it would only take a couple of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cause chaos between the neighbouring countries .
Protests and blockades of ports , particularly Calais , would begin almost immediately if European boats are excluded from British waters .

Brexit: Eustice says UK’s fishing waters is a ‘powerful card’
Environment Secretary George Eustice made the promise to a House of Lords committee in the latest war of words between the UK and European Union over fishing access. The hugely emotive issue is already threatening to derail post-Brexit trade talks. Mr Eustice warned the Royal Navy now has three additional vessels and the Home Office will provide a further four, while the Government can also call in help from the private sector. He insisted the UK is taking “sufficient” measures to protect British waters, telling the Lords committee an additional 50 fishery protection officers have been recruited and there will be “aerial surveillance”.
The Environment Secretary was asked about enforcement of the fisheries policy, and said: “We have significantly increased our enforcement capability.” “The Royal Navy introduced three new offshore vessels but a decision was taken not to decommission the old ones so that there was additional capacity there. “We’ve also taken on some extra capacity from the private sector to give us extra vessels, we’ve launched a new joint maritime control centre together with both Border Force and Coastguard so that we can make better coordinated use of the various assets that we have. “The Home Office have four cutter vessels that are suitable for some fisheries patrol work and we have trained some of their staff to become warranted fisheries officers and taken out an aerial surveillance contract as well.
Brexit news: The UK has sent a huge warning over EU fishing vessels entering British waters
Brexit news: Boris Johnson has vowed to protect UK fishermen in any UK-EU trade deal
“We have trained a significant number - 50 new fisheries protection officers - to support us in this work and we’ve also taken out an aerial surveillance contract as well so we have increased it substantially. “We think that is sufficient.” Mr Eustice also insisted there is no chance of the UK using the fishing industry as a “bargaining chip” in post-Brexit trade talks. The Environment Secretary said: “There will be some reduction in access, not least in the six-12 mile zone, but it’s too early to say what access we would grant. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: Ignore EU bluffing! Trade deal possible SOON
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Brexit news: George Eustice issued a warning to the EU over fishing access in British waters
“There really isn’t a precedent of linking a trade deal in the round with sacrificing or forfeiting your right as an independent coastal state.” He also claimed manufacturing interests in Germany and Italy would stop the issue over fishing becoming an issue later down the line in a trade deal. Mr Eustice added: “The member states that are are quite dependent on access to our waters are France - the Normandy fleet has quite a lot of access - Ireland, to a lesser extent the Netherlands and Belgium. “After that, there are many, many other member states who don’t have access to our waters or our stocks. DON'T MISS
EU demands 'put Britain’s trading relationship with USA at risk' [COMMENT]
EU dethroned: Why Macron’s plot to sideline London will fail [INTERVIEW]
Brexit: US trade talks could collapse due to ONE overlooked issue [OPINION]
Brexit news: Emmanuel Macron is furious at the UK over fishing access
Brexit news: UK fishermen fear the industry may be sacrificed as part of a UK-EU trade deal
“It would be quite a big ask for countries like Italy and Germany, who don’t really benefit from access to UK waters, to say we are actually going to jeopardise a trade deal on all those important industrial goods that they do seek access to the UK market for. “I’m not sure it’s sustainable for the EU to hold to the position that some member states have been articulating.” France has warned it will block cross-Channel ports if a trade deal is not agreed with the EU, and is prepared for a “very nasty battle” if fishing is excluded from any agreement. British government ministers have been warned cross-Channel trade with the rest of Europe could be paralysed unless they agree to a post-Brexit free trade agreement with the bloc that is acceptable to French fishermen.
Brexit news: EU countries most reliant on UK fishing waters
Whitehall officials told ministers there is a “very realistic chance” major ports, including Calais, could be blockaded by European Union fishing boats, according to The Times, in what is being described as a “nightmare scenario”. Nearly a fifth (17 percent) of the UK’s trade in goods, worth more than £100billion each year, passes between Dover and Calais. But despite the entrance to the French port being a few hundred metres wide, it would only take a couple of large fishing trawlers to block access and cause chaos between the neighbouring countries. Protests and blockades of ports, particularly Calais, would begin almost immediately if European boats are excluded from British waters.
Brexit news: Emmanuel Macron has pledged to 'fight' for French fishermen
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thedailyexpress--2020-03-05--Foreign aid madness: Boris moves to curb overspending with huge Whitehall shake-up

The dramatic change of tack would represent a bid by Mr Johnson to curb spending - in 2018 , Dfid contributed £10.9billion towards Official Development Assistance , according to documents published in September 2019 .
However , critics has suggested they would also serve to politicise Britain ’ s humanitarian assistance programme .
Currently , country directors , who are responsible for allocating UK aid to regional projects , report directly to Dfid .
However , in the memo , sent to senior staff , Downing Street said in future they would need to go through the British ambassador in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Foreign Office to keep a tighter grip of the purse strings .
In 2018 , Britain ’ s total ODA totalled £14.6billion , with £3billion coming from other Government departments , and £700million coming from other sources within the UK .
Pakistan was the top recipient , with £331million , followed by Ethiopia , with £301 million .
Even India , which is already drawing up plans for a third attempt to land a probe on the moon , received £95million .
In terms of the continents , Africa received £2.86billion in UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
During a meeting to confirm details of last month ’ s reshuffle , all of Dfid ’ s junior ministers were warned they would in future split their time with the Foreign Office - with a “ full merger ” on the cards if the new arrangements did not work , The Times reported .
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VOTE HERE If accurate , such an approach would seem to fit in with a push by Dominic Cummings , Boris Johnson ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the machinery of Government .
Chancellor Sajid Javid quit last month after being told he would have to work with a team of advisers appointed by Number 10 , a condition he suggested “ no self-respecting minister ” could accept .
Speaking last month , Mark Littlewood , director-general of the Institute for Economic Affairs , described Mr Cummings as a “ professional feather-rustler ” , adding : “ Dominic is not at all in the mould of the stereotypical bureaucratic – he is a force for creative destruction .
“ And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is far from guaranteed to do , given the extent of the resistance he is likely to encounter – it will be the most colossal shake-up of the way Whitehall operates , the no-can do attitude etc , we ’ ve ever seen.
” Hinting at the shape of things to come , he added : “ I think probably he will do things one step at a time .
“ If he is then able to show better performance as a result then it strengthens his hand for the next phase .
@

UK foreign aid amount going to India is 'insane' says SAS veteran
The dramatic change of tack would represent a bid by Mr Johnson to curb spending - in 2018, Dfid contributed £10.9billion towards Official Development Assistance, according to documents published in September 2019. However, critics has suggested they would also serve to politicise Britain’s humanitarian assistance programme. Currently, country directors, who are responsible for allocating UK aid to regional projects, report directly to Dfid.
However, in the memo, sent to senior staff, Downing Street said in future they would need to go through the British ambassador in each country, which would enable the Foreign Office to keep a tighter grip of the purse strings. In 2018, Britain’s total ODA totalled £14.6billion, with £3billion coming from other Government departments, and £700million coming from other sources within the UK. Pakistan was the top recipient, with £331million, followed by Ethiopia, with £301 million.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson
India's Vikram Lander prior to its failed bid to land on the Mo
Even India, which is already drawing up plans for a third attempt to land a probe on the moon, received £95million. In terms of the continents, Africa received £2.86billion in UK aid, while Asian countries got £2.24billion. During a meeting to confirm details of last month’s reshuffle, all of Dfid’s junior ministers were warned they would in future split their time with the Foreign Office - with a “full merger” on the cards if the new arrangements did not work, The Times reported. JUST IN: Coronavirus POLL - Are you delaying booking your holiday? VOTE HERE
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Dominic Cummings, Boris Johnson's special adviser
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab
Anne-Marie Trevelyan, Secretary of State of International Development
If accurate, such an approach would seem to fit in with a push by Dominic Cummings, Boris Johnson’s special adviser, for a radical reform of the machinery of Government. Chancellor Sajid Javid quit last month after being told he would have to work with a team of advisers appointed by Number 10, a condition he suggested “no self-respecting minister” could accept. Speaking last month, Mark Littlewood, director-general of the Institute for Economic Affairs, described Mr Cummings as a “professional feather-rustler”, adding: “Dominic is not at all in the mould of the stereotypical bureaucratic – he is a force for creative destruction.
A breakdown of the ODA budget
“And if his approach prevails – which it is far from guaranteed to do, given the extent of the resistance he is likely to encounter – it will be the most colossal shake-up of the way Whitehall operates, the no-can do attitude etc, we’ve ever seen.” Hinting at the shape of things to come, he added: “I think probably he will do things one step at a time. “If he is then able to show better performance as a result then it strengthens his hand for the next phase.”
Sajid Javid quit as Chancellor last month
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He is clear he wants all aspects of the Government’s international operations to be integrated fully to promote Global Britain Government spokesman


thedailyexpress--2020-03-05--Unfair EU demands putting Britain’s trading relationship with USA at risk, warn Lords

Brussels is insisting on regulatory “ equivalence ” to allow London to keep its access to EU markets .
But the House of Lords warned the US might be unwilling to sign an early accord on exporting financial services if the UK maintains such close alignment with the EU rules .
Peers told financial services minister John Glen that under an equivalence regime , Brussels would only grants market access to a non-EU country if their financial services regulations were similar .
They said this could potentially rule out financial services deals with counties such as the USA , Japan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who worked for several UK institutions in Japan , said agreeing equivalence with EU regulation could deter international partners seeking more flexibilty from post-Brexit Britain .
He told the Lords EU Financial Affairs sub-committee : “ If we enshrine in law a special position concerning ourdivergence or convergence from and to EU regulation , this will inevitably make it more difficult to establish close regulatory agreement with the US , with Japan , with Singapore and other leading financial centres.
” Mr Glen said Britain had no plans to rip up the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ once the post-Brexit transition period ends .
The EU is the largest export market for Britain ’ s financial firms but access will be cut off if no new trading terms have been agreed by January .
READ MORE : Brexit threat : EU sends chilling warning to UK - ‘ We are not stupid ! '
Before granting some access , the EU must assess whether UK-based banks , insurers and asset managers comply with rules that are “ equivalent ” or as robust as those within the bloc .
But Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There is no secret plan to deviate .
“ The core message that we have is we want to observe the highest standards.
” He said Britain wanted Brussels to conclude “ positive ” assessments by June , arguing it has put EU financial rules into UK law .
He said : ” We are equivalent to anyone ’ s eyes.
” Lord Turnbull , the former cabinet secretary , questioned if a deal with one jurisdiction would compromise another .
He said : “ If we sign up to the US , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ departed from a deal with us ?
” DO N'T MISS : Brexit LIVE : Ignore EU bluffing !
Trade deal possible SOON [ LIVE ] Brexit : US trade talks could collapse due to ONE overlooked issue [ ANALYSIS ] Brussels enforced thousands of EXTRA laws before Brexit was complete [ SPOTLIGHT ]

Brexit: Expert reveals the 'card' Johnson has in trade talks
Brussels is insisting on regulatory “equivalence” to allow London to keep its access to EU markets. But the House of Lords warned the US might be unwilling to sign an early accord on exporting financial services if the UK maintains such close alignment with the EU rules.
There is no secret plan to deviate John Glen
Peers told financial services minister John Glen that under an equivalence regime, Brussels would only grants market access to a non-EU country if their financial services regulations were similar. They said this could potentially rule out financial services deals with counties such as the USA, Japan and Singapore. Former banker Lord Trenchard, who worked for several UK institutions in Japan, said agreeing equivalence with EU regulation could deter international partners seeking more flexibilty from post-Brexit Britain.
Financial services is one of the UK's most lucrative industries
He told the Lords EU Financial Affairs sub-committee: “If we enshrine in law a special position concerning ourdivergence or convergence from and to EU regulation, this will inevitably make it more difficult to establish close regulatory agreement with the US, with Japan, with Singapore and other leading financial centres.” Mr Glen said Britain had no plans to rip up the rulebook governing the hugely lucrative banking sector once the post-Brexit transition period ends. The EU is the largest export market for Britain’s financial firms but access will be cut off if no new trading terms have been agreed by January. READ MORE: Brexit threat: EU sends chilling warning to UK - ‘We are not stupid!'
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Brussels demands 'equivalance' on financial services regulations
city of london
Before granting some access, the EU must assess whether UK-based banks, insurers and asset managers comply with rules that are “equivalent” or as robust as those within the bloc. But Mr Glen told the Lords sub-committee: “There is no secret plan to deviate. “The core message that we have is we want to observe the highest standards.”
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The post-Brexit transition period ends on December 31


thedailyexpress--2020-03-05--Rebecca Long-Bailey sparks Twitter outrage with car crash BBC interview - 'Just waffling'

Rebecca Long-Bailey was blasted over her `` dreadful '' performance on BBC Radio 4 's Today programme to discuss her plans for a greener Labour Party manifesto .
The Labour leadership contest candidate was accused of `` waffling '' and failing to provide a `` straight answer '' to questions posed during what some social media users branded a `` car crash '' interview .
One Twitter user wrote : `` @ RLong_Bailey you are waffling .
`` Your answers should be with the view of convincing @ UKLabour members to vote for you .
Instead , you ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an answer . ''
Another user echoed the sentiment , writing : `` @ BBCr4today does @ RLong_Bailey ever answer a direct question ? ''
Some users took particular issue with the struggle the shadow Business Secretary appeared to have in explaining how she would have intervened to stop the collapse of airline Flybe .
One user said : `` Unable to answer @ BBCr4today how to rescue @ flybe .
JUST IN : Sturgeon CAVES : SNP boss humiliated as she backs Boris saying he got it RIGHT on key plan '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plane and her car crash interview on green policy with @ afneil last night exposed @ RLong_Bailey as a demagogue of Arthur Scargill type who can organise a strike with a megaphone but can ’ t collect fares on a bus . ''
Ms Long-Bailey had previously faced a grilling over her plans when she appeared on The Andrew Neil Show on Wednesday evening .
Another social media user wrote : `` Just listening to Rebecca Long-Bailey on Radio 4 .
Arrogance beyond belief and she never takes a breath .
Dreadful .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ You ’ re actually listening ?
I zoned out about halfway through .
Think she ’ s finished now . ''
Ms Long-Bailey during the programme was asked to outline her suggestion on how to help FlyBe remain in business despite claims the coronavirus epidemic heavily contributed to the company 's collapse .
The Labour MP for Salford and Eccles said : `` If I was Business Secretary or Prime Minister at the time , firstly , I would look at providing support for those businesses affected directly by the coronavirus .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ financial difficulty already but it was coronavirus that pushed it over the edge .
`` The CEO of BA said other airlines are likely to follow with a mixture of being affected by Brexit , the rise in oil price and also coronavirus . ''
FlyBe flights : What to do if your flight is cancelled [ INSIGHT ] Furious Ryanair CEO hits out Boris Johnson 's decision to save Flybe [ INSIGHT ] End taxes on airline businesses under Brexit , writes TIM NEWARK [ COMMENT ]

Flybe: Rebecca Long-Bailey grilled on plans to tackle crisis
Rebecca Long-Bailey was blasted over her "dreadful" performance on BBC Radio 4's Today programme to discuss her plans for a greener Labour Party manifesto. The Labour leadership contest candidate was accused of "waffling" and failing to provide a "straight answer" to questions posed during what some social media users branded a "car crash" interview. One Twitter user wrote: "@RLong_Bailey you are waffling.
"Your answers should be with the view of convincing @UKLabour members to vote for you. Instead, you’re answering a question by not really giving an answer." Another user echoed the sentiment, writing: "@BBCr4today does @RLong_Bailey ever answer a direct question?" Some users took particular issue with the struggle the shadow Business Secretary appeared to have in explaining how she would have intervened to stop the collapse of airline Flybe. One user said: "Unable to answer @BBCr4today how to rescue @flybe. JUST IN: Sturgeon CAVES: SNP boss humiliated as she backs Boris saying he got it RIGHT on key plan
Rebecca Long-Bailey faced backlash for her BBC R4 Today interview
Rebecca Long-Bailey was mocked for her "car crash" interview
"Is she doesn’t have a plane and her car crash interview on green policy with @afneil last night exposed @RLong_Bailey as a demagogue of Arthur Scargill type who can organise a strike with a megaphone but can’t collect fares on a bus." Ms Long-Bailey had previously faced a grilling over her plans when she appeared on The Andrew Neil Show on Wednesday evening. Another social media user wrote: "Just listening to Rebecca Long-Bailey on Radio 4. Arrogance beyond belief and she never takes a breath. Dreadful." And one simply said: "You’re actually listening? I zoned out about halfway through. Think she’s finished now." READ MORE: Keir Starmer dodges Andrew Neil's question on 'secret, shadowy money'
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Coronavirus: Flybe 'won't be last' casualty says Martin Lewis
Long-Bailey attracted criticism over her proposed plans to rescue FlyBe
Ms Long-Bailey during the programme was asked to outline her suggestion on how to help FlyBe remain in business despite claims the coronavirus epidemic heavily contributed to the company's collapse. The Labour MP for Salford and Eccles said: "If I was Business Secretary or Prime Minister at the time, firstly, I would look at providing support for those businesses affected directly by the coronavirus. "Now, allegedly, FlyBe was in financial difficulty already but it was coronavirus that pushed it over the edge. "The CEO of BA said other airlines are likely to follow with a mixture of being affected by Brexit, the rise in oil price and also coronavirus." DON'T MISS FlyBe flights: What to do if your flight is cancelled [INSIGHT]
Furious Ryanair CEO hits out Boris Johnson's decision to save Flybe [INSIGHT]
End taxes on airline businesses under Brexit, writes TIM NEWARK [COMMENT]
Long-Bailey was told her performance and answers will not attract Labour voters to back her
Rebecca Long-Bailey is one of the three remaining Labour leadership candidates in the contest
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thedailyexpress--2020-03-05--Brexit LIVE: Ignore EU bluffing! Trade deal possible SOON - trade sources speak out

Experts believe striking a deal before Boris Johnson ’ s December 31 deadline is far more likely than people think amid claims Brussels when it suggests there is not enough time to reach accord .
A former UK trade official told politico.eu : “ On the trade side , the points of convergence are remarkably similar.
” He said both sides agree that avoiding tariffs and quotas on trade in goods is desirable but it remains to be seen if the EU will compromise on its regulatory alignment demands or if the UK will bu dge on its objection to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lowe , senior research fellow at the Centre for European Reform , said Britain accepts leaving the single market and customs union will give it more autonomy but also put up more barriers to trade .
But he said there is no longer the “ have your cake and eat it ” attitude of Theresa May ’ s government which means both sides should be more willing to budge one certain issues .
Mr Lowe told politico.eu : “ Beyond the headline issues the two parties aren ’ t so far apart.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Institute for Government think tank , said : “ A landing zone will only really become visible later on .
“ Now it ’ s all about standing up for your interests and constituencies or at least being seen to be .
“ A basic UK-EU deal in goods which covers some aspects of services is possible , but it will require both sides to compromise.
” This is despite EU warnings a no deal Brexit could be on the cards unless Britain backed down over red lines .
11.29am update : Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus epidemic Boris Johnson ’ s official spokesman said the Government would not be asking for an extension to the Brexit transition period as a result of the coronavirus outbreak .
The spokesman told a Westminster briefing : `` That work has been continuing throughout and I expect it to carry on as planned - no change . ''
Labour has accused the Government of pursuing an `` America first '' approach in its trade talks with the United States .
Shadow international trade minister Bill Esterson said Government documents lack detail about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ US on UK manufacturing , adding this is an issue the ceramics industry has warned about .
But International Trade Secretary Liz Truss described Labour 's questioning as `` ludicrous '' and claimed `` virtually every sector of the UK economy '' will benefit from the desired deal with the US .
The UK Government has published its negotiating objectives for the upcoming talks with the US , which include ensuring the NHS is not for sale via the desired free trade agreement .
Government estimates also suggest the post-Brexit deal would have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by 0.16 percent , with the £3.4 billion yearly increase predicted under the best-case scenario where the UK eliminates import tariffs with the US .
Britain could struggle to strike a financial service deal with the US if its sticks to the European Union rulebook after Brexit , peers have warned .
Brussels is insisting on regulatory “ equivalence ” to allow London to keep its access to EU markets .
But the House of Lords warned the US might be unwilling to sign an early accord on exporting financial services if the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU rules .
Peers told financial services minister John Glen that under an equivalence regime , Brussels would only grants market access to a non-EU country if their financial services regulations were similar .
And they warend this could potentially rule out financial services deals with counties such as the USA , Japan and Singapore .
Home Secretary Priti Patel said new immigration legislation would give Britain full control over who comes into the country .
Writing in the Daily Telegraph she said : This week we are paving the way for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ immigration system in a generation .
“ The Immigration Bill ends free movement with the EU , strengthens border security , and lays the foundation for our new UK points-based immigration system .
“ This new legislation gives the UK full control over who comes to this country for the first time in decades .
“ We are shaping how our immigration system works for the whole of the UK , building a high-skill , high-wage economy , where no region or nation is left behind.
” The Immigration Bill ending post-Brexit free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ today .
The Bill , hailed by ministers as “ landmark legislation ” , is intended to pave the way for the foundation of a points-based immigration system .
Minister for Future Borders and Immigration , Kevin Foster , said : “ Today we ’ ve taken the momentous first step to end free movement and take back control of our borders , delivering on the people ’ s priorities .
“ Our firmer and fairer points-based immigration system will attract the brightest and best from around the globe , prioritising those who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they have to offer , not on the passport they hold.
” Mr Foster said that if the Bill was passed it would give the UK control over who enters the country .
The minister said the Bill will see a points-based immigration system brought in from January 1 2021 .

Brexit: Michel Barnier outlines ‘divergence’ points in negotiations
Experts believe striking a deal before Boris Johnson’s December 31 deadline is far more likely than people think amid claims Brussels when it suggests there is not enough time to reach an accord. A former UK trade official told politico.eu: “On the trade side, the points of convergence are remarkably similar.” He said both sides agree that avoiding tariffs and quotas on trade in goods is desirable but it remains to be seen if the EU will compromise on its regulatory alignment demands or if the UK will budge on its objection to such level playing field requirements.
Beyond the headline issues the two parties aren’t so far apart Sam Lowe
Sam Lowe, senior research fellow at the Centre for European Reform, said Britain accepts leaving the single market and customs union will give it more autonomy but also put up more barriers to trade. But he said there is no longer the “have your cake and eat it” attitude of Theresa May’s government which means both sides should be more willing to budge one certain issues. Mr Lowe told politico.eu: “Beyond the headline issues the two parties aren’t so far apart.”
Brexit Live
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Georgina Wright, senior researcher at the Institute for Government think tank, said: “A landing zone will only really become visible later on. “Now it’s all about standing up for your interests and constituencies or at least being seen to be. “A basic UK-EU deal in goods which covers some aspects of services is possible, but it will require both sides to compromise.” This is despite EU warnings a no deal Brexit could be on the cards unless Britain backed down over red lines. SCROLL DOWN FOR BREXIT LIVE UPDATES
Brexit LIVE: Brexit negotiations conclude following first week
9.03pm update: Fishing industry doesn't expect Brexit sell out The Northern Ireland fishing industry believes there will be a deal between the UK and EU. Both parties must come to an agreement on fishing by July. Speaking on the Northern Ireland Assembly's Agriculture Committee, Alan McCulla of the Anglo-North Irish Fish Producers Association said fishing was key to the success of Brexit. He said: "The sense I have from politicians in London - and it is only a sense - is that there's no way they can afford to sell the UK fishing industry out." 8.13pm update: David Frost releases statement following first round of talks The UK and EU completed the first round of talks on Thursday before the EU team travels to London on March 18. Following the talks, the UK's negotiator, David Frost released a statement labelling the initial phase as "constructive". "It was a constructive first round & we now understand each other well. "These will be tough talks but we will work hard to try to reach agreement."
Brexit LIVE: Michel Barnier spoke at a press conference today
7.47pm update: Rupert Lowe hits out Michel Barnier The former MEP for the West Midlands has insisted the consequences for the EU will be much worse than for the UK. Mr Lowe was responding to the EU negotiator's warning that there will be "lots of consequences" to the UK's exit. Mr Lowe said: "Barnier now speaking about 'lots of consequences' for the UK if we walk away from the talks. "Considering our enormous trade deficit with the EU I'd say the consequences will be worse for them. "Put the politics aside and let's get a deal that works for everyone." 6.08pm update: EU's "subtle shift" on fishing rights Following Michel Barnier press conference today, The Daily Telegraph's Brussels correspondent has a highlighted a potential shift in the EU's stance on fishing. Although Mr Barnier signalled there are several differences between the two, he suggested a there could be a compromise. Mr Crisp said: "Barnier hinted at compromise from the frankly unsustainable EU position on fishing, which is a pre-condition of the trade deal. "'We are ready to seek out a balanced solution.' "A subtle shift? A senior EU official later confirmed that the European Commission could ask EU member states to agree to a less strict deal if a compromise could be found." 5.37pm update: Michel Barnier comments on UK divergence from European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) Commenting on the UK-EU negotiations, Mr Barnier revealed at a Brussels news conference one of the areas of divergence between the two. He said: "The UK informs us they do not wish to commit formally to continuing to apply the ECHR, nor do they wish the ECJ to play its full role in interpreting European law." "If the UK position does not move it will have an immediate and concrete effect on the level of ambition of our cooperation." The UK has insisted it is committed to the ECHR but no extra legislation needed to be added to the agreement with Brussels.
Brexit timeline
5.15pm update: Andrew Neil savages SNP chief Andrew Neil has criticised SNP's First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon over her immigrations plans as she fights for free movement post-Brexit. Quizzing the party's immigration spokesman, Stuart McDonald, asked why Scotland should have a "Scottish visa". He said: “In 2018 your net immigration figure was 10,000; for the UK as a whole it was 240,000. "Why is it not a popular destination for immigrants?” Mr McDonald responded by claiming any region outside of London would struggle. 4.19pm update: David Frost is "extraordinary" Former Ukip MP, Douglas Carswell has praised the UK's negotiator following the conclusion of the first week of negotiations. He said: "I met David Frost as a new MP when I happened to go to Denmark on a Select Committee trip in 2010. "He was the ambassador in Copenhagen. "I met this extraordinary man – who was the first and one of the only British officials who was clearly eurosceptic. "He understood intellectually why Britain should be outside Europe." 4.01pm update: Peter Bone calls for Brexit bank holiday MP for Wellingborough, Peter Bone, has called for a new bank holiday today. Mr Bone put forward a new bill to celebrate Brexit, the Union and the Queen. 'United Kingdom Day' would be on the closest Friday to June 23 to mark the Brexit referendum. Additional reporting by Simon Osborne. 2.36pm update: Scottish Secretary says ‘optimism and hard work’ behind Brexit success Scottish Secretary Alister Jack has insisted optimism and hard work will make a success of Brexit. Speaking at an evidence session in Holyrood, Mr Jack said he does "not put any store in forecasting" from economic experts. Mr Jack said it will be hard work and "gumption" which will ensure the UK economy grows after the relationship with the European Union changes. Mr Jack told MSPs: "We will leave, and as the fifth strongest economy in the world, I'm absolutely confident we will prosper and we must look at it with optimism. "The one thing that forecasters are quite consistent at is getting things wrong. "I'll stand by this - I think we'll grow our economy very successfully outside the EU and we will do very good trade deals around the world."
Brexit: Expert reveals the 'card' Johnson has in trade talks
2.18pm update: British negotiators hail ‘constructive, good-natured’ talks Britain and the EU had a "constructive, good-natured" first round of talks on their new relationship after Brexit, accordoing to a UK source close to the negotiations. But the source said despite "a degree of common understanding" in some areas, gaps remained on fisheries, criminal justice co-operation and the so-called level playing field provisions to guarantee fair competition. 1.22pm update: EU's Hogan welcomes improvement in Brexit ‘mood music’ EU trade chief Phil Hogan said the start of negotiations between Brussels and Britain had improved the "mood music" between the two. Mr Hogan said he hoped “disturbing rhetoric” from London amounted to nothing more than "grandstanding" ahead of the serious talks. He said: ”I’m glad to say that the mood music as the week has gone on in Brussels between the UK and the European Union has improved.” 12.38pm update: Barnier warns of 'very difficult disagreements' in trade talks Michel Barnier has warned of "very serious divergences" today after closing the first round of post-Brexit trade talks with Britain. The chief Brussels negotiator insisted there are five areas of disagreement that currently prevent both sides from striking a free-trade deal. After holding talks with counterpart David Frost, the Frenchman said the bloc would now have to prepare for a “very, very different” relationship after the end of the transition period on December 31. Mr Barnier said: “Our differences come as no surprise, especially after one round of negotiations but some are very, very difficult. “I continue to believe we can reach a good agreement for both sides, the past few days have been constructive.” The two sides have failed to agree on fisheries, the so-called level-playing field and law enforcement and, finally, the overall structure of the deal.
Michel Barnier has warned of significant differences
11.29am update: Brexit ‘will not be delayed’ by coronavirus epidemic Boris Johnson’s official spokesman said the Government would not be asking for an extension to the Brexit transition period as a result of the coronavirus outbreak. The spokesman told a Westminster briefing: "That work has been continuing throughout and I expect it to carry on as planned - no change." 10.50am update: Truss rejects Labour claims of ‘America first’ trade talks Labour has accused the Government of pursuing an "America first" approach in its trade talks with the United States. Shadow international trade minister Bill Esterson said Government documents lack detail about the impact of cheap imports from the US on UK manufacturing, adding this is an issue the ceramics industry has warned about. But International Trade Secretary Liz Truss described Labour's questioning as "ludicrous" and claimed "virtually every sector of the UK economy" will benefit from the desired deal with the US. The UK Government has published its negotiating objectives for the upcoming talks with the US, which include ensuring the NHS is not for sale via the desired free trade agreement. Government estimates also suggest the post-Brexit deal would have the potential to grow the UK economy by 0.16 percent, with the £3.4 billion yearly increase predicted under the best-case scenario where the UK eliminates import tariffs with the US.
Liz Truss has dismissed Labour's claims
9.31am update: EU demands 'putting Britain's trading relationship with USA at risk' Britain could struggle to strike a financial service deal with the US if its sticks to the European Union rulebook after Brexit, peers have warned. Brussels is insisting on regulatory “equivalence” to allow London to keep its access to EU markets. But the House of Lords warned the US might be unwilling to sign an early accord on exporting financial services if the UK maintains such close alignment with the EU rules. Peers told financial services minister John Glen that under an equivalence regime, Brussels would only grants market access to a non-EU country if their financial services regulations were similar. And they warend this could potentially rule out financial services deals with counties such as the USA, Japan and Singapore.
8.33am update: Priti Patel - ‘We are taking back control of immigration’ Home Secretary Priti Patel said new immigration legislation would give Britain full control over who comes into the country. Writing in the Daily Telegraph she said: This week we are paving the way for the biggest change to the UK’s immigration system in a generation. “The Immigration Bill ends free movement with the EU, strengthens border security, and lays the foundation for our new UK points-based immigration system. “This new legislation gives the UK full control over who comes to this country for the first time in decades. “We are shaping how our immigration system works for the whole of the UK, building a high-skill, high-wage economy, where no region or nation is left behind.”
Priti Patel said the Immigration Bill would see Britain 'take back control'
8.03am update: Royal Navy on standby to protect British fishing grounds Royal Navy warships will be deployed to protect British waters from European fishing vessels after Brexit. Fishing minster George Eustice said the UK had taken "sufficient" steps to patrol its waters telling a Lords committee that 50 extra fishery protection officers have been recruited and there will be "aerial surveillance". Asked about enforcement of the fisheries policy, he explained: "We have significantly increased our enforcement capability." Ministers have been warned of a scenario where French fishermen blockade ports and paralyse cross-Channel trade at the end of the year.
The Royal Navy fishery protection vessel HMS Mersey leaves port in Portsmouth and heads out to sea


thedailyexpress--2020-03-05--Brexit threat: EU sends chilling warning to UK - ‘We like you, but we are not stupid!’


thedailyexpress--2020-03-05--Long-Bailey crumbles in brutal car crash interview as Neil tears apart 'same prospectus'