thedailyexpress--2020-11-21--Rishi injects tens of billions of pounds into jobs in big spending spree to revive economy

The Chancellor will use a financial statement next week to pledge his commitment to “ levelling up ” the country with a massive cash injection .
A northern headquarters for the Treasury will open next year as part of the government ’ s plans to move 22,000 civil service roles out of London and the south east by 2030 .
Rishi Sunak warned on Friday night the UK ’ s finances will need to be put on a “ sustainable path ” after public sector debt passed the £2 trillion mark for the first time in history .
But he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government ’ s plans to boost the economy outside the south east off course .
Mr Sunak said : “ We are absolutely committed to levelling-up opportunities so those living in all corners of the UK get their fair share of our future prosperity .
“ All nations and regions of the UK have benefited from our unprecedented £200 billion Covid support package .
`` And after a difficult year for this country , this Spending Review will help us build back better by investing over £600 billion across the UK during the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be earmarked for local roads next year , including filling potholes , congestion pinch-points and other upgrades .
Pilots for the UK Shared Prosperity Fund , which will channel funding in left-behind places such as coastal communities and former industrial heartlands , will receive £220 million .
The Government will also publish its National Infrastructure Strategy , which will include targeted investments in transport , digital infrastructure , housing , energy and going green .
Coronavirus has left a gaping hole in public finances after the Treasury turned on the spending taps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jobs .
JUST IN : Universal Credit UK : DWP confirm claimants will get a Christmas bonus No 10 insisted there will not be a return to austerity of the past and departmental spending will increase above inflation .
But public sector pay freezes are being considered for millions of workers as the Government tries to rebuild the country ’ s finances .
The Chancellor is looking at capping rises at or below inflation but frontline NHS doctors and nurses are expected to be exempt in recognition of their work during the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that public sector pay awards would need to take account into the wider economic context and said there would have to be restraint .
But he faced a backlash from union leaders on Friday who threatened industrial action if a cap is imposed .
DO N'T MISS No deal Brexit : Will the price of food go up after Brexit ?
[ INSIGHT ] Britons furious as EU accused of plot to force UK to 'capitulate ' [ REACTION ] Brexit deal closer but EU stubbornness on fish risks derailing talks [ UPDATE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Public and Commercial Services union , said : “ If Rishi Sunak fails to pay public sector workers properly , there will be widespread anger and industrial action can not be ruled out.
” Rehana Azam , national officer of the GMB union said : “ We will not stand by and allow public sectors workers to pay for this crisis with new austerity and a morale-sapping wage freeze .
“ This is a kick in the teeth for those who have been fighting the pandemic.
” TUC general secretary Frances O @ @ @ @ @ @ @ freeze would be a bitter pill for care workers , refuse collectors , emergency workers and all the key workers in the public sector who have helped keep the country going through this pandemic.
” But the Centre for Policy Studies said private sector workers had suffered far more from the economic impact of the disease .
It said that a three-year pay freeze across the public sector could save up to £23 billion , helping to plug the hole in the public finances opened up by the pandemic , or £15.3 billion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sunak is also looking at reducing aid spending from 0.7 per cent to 0.5 per cent for a year in the spending review .
Government borrowing reached a record £22.3 billion last month , the highest October level since records began in 1993 .
The Office for National Statistics said borrowing for the first seven months of the financial year is now estimated at £214.9 billion - the highest in any April to October period on record .
The UK ’ s debt is now more than 100 per cent of national income @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1960s .
Mr Sunak said : “ We ’ ve provided over £200 billion of support to protect the economy , lives and livelihoods from the significant and far-reaching impacts of coronavirus .
“ This is the responsible thing to do , but it ’ s also clear that over time it ’ s right we ensure the public finances are put on a sustainable path.
” Economists at the Resolution Foundation think tank predict a GDP hit lasting into the middle of the decade worth £1,000 for every adult in Britain .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Responsibility will upgrade the economic outlook for 2020 on Wednesday but the forecast will show it is shrinking by the highest level in 300 years .
Torsten Bell , Resolution Foundation chief executive , said : “ Far from being a V-shaped crisis , the economic scars from Covid will be with us at least until the middle of the decade , with the economy set to be permanently smaller by £1,000 per adult .
”

Rishi Sunak outlines how government uses money from taxes
The Chancellor will use a financial statement next week to pledge his commitment to “levelling up” the country with a massive cash injection. A northern headquarters for the Treasury will open next year as part of the government’s plans to move 22,000 civil service roles out of London and the south east by 2030. Rishi Sunak warned on Friday night the UK’s finances will need to be put on a “sustainable path” after public sector debt passed the £2 trillion mark for the first time in history.
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But he insisted the pandemic will not throw the Government’s plans to boost the economy outside the south east off course. Mr Sunak said: “We are absolutely committed to levelling-up opportunities so those living in all corners of the UK get their fair share of our future prosperity. “All nations and regions of the UK have benefited from our unprecedented £200 billion Covid support package. "And after a difficult year for this country, this Spending Review will help us build back better by investing over £600 billion across the UK during the next five years.”
Rishi Sunak to inject tens of billions of pounds into jobs in huge spending spree to revive economy
The Chancellor will use a financial statement next week to announce the massive cash injection
Around £1.6 billion will be earmarked for local roads next year, including filling potholes, congestion pinch-points and other upgrades. Pilots for the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which will channel funding in left-behind places such as coastal communities and former industrial heartlands, will receive £220 million. The Government will also publish its National Infrastructure Strategy, which will include targeted investments in transport, digital infrastructure, housing, energy and going green. Coronavirus has left a gaping hole in public finances after the Treasury turned on the spending taps to prop up the economy and protect jobs. JUST IN: Universal Credit UK: DWP confirm claimants will get a Christmas bonus
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Around £1.6 billion will be earmarked for local roads including filling potholes
Mr Sunak vowed the pandemic will not throw the Government’s plans to boost the economy
No 10 insisted there will not be a return to austerity of the past and departmental spending will increase above inflation. But public sector pay freezes are being considered for millions of workers as the Government tries to rebuild the country’s finances. The Chancellor is looking at capping rises at or below inflation but frontline NHS doctors and nurses are expected to be exempt in recognition of their work during the coronavirus pandemic. Mr Sunak said in July that public sector pay awards would need to take account into the wider economic context and said there would have to be restraint. But he faced a backlash from union leaders on Friday who threatened industrial action if a cap is imposed. DON'T MISS
No deal Brexit: Will the price of food go up after Brexit? [INSIGHT]
Britons furious as EU accused of plot to force UK to 'capitulate' [REACTION]
Brexit deal closer but EU stubbornness on fish risks derailing talks [UPDATE]
Investments in transport, digital infrastructure, housing, energy and going green are also planned
Mark Serwotka, general secretary of the Public and Commercial Services union, said: “If Rishi Sunak fails to pay public sector workers properly, there will be widespread anger and industrial action cannot be ruled out.” Rehana Azam, national officer of the GMB union said: “We will not stand by and allow public sectors workers to pay for this crisis with new austerity and a morale-sapping wage freeze. “This is a kick in the teeth for those who have been fighting the pandemic.” TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady said: “A pay freeze would be a bitter pill for care workers, refuse collectors, emergency workers and all the key workers in the public sector who have helped keep the country going through this pandemic.” But the Centre for Policy Studies said private sector workers had suffered far more from the economic impact of the disease. It said that a three-year pay freeze across the public sector could save up to £23 billion, helping to plug the hole in the public finances opened up by the pandemic, or £15.3 billion if the NHS is excluded.
Rishi Sunak introduced his furlough scheme at the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic
Mr Sunak is also looking at reducing aid spending from 0.7 per cent to 0.5 per cent for a year in the spending review. Government borrowing reached a record £22.3 billion last month, the highest October level since records began in 1993. The Office for National Statistics said borrowing for the first seven months of the financial year is now estimated at £214.9 billion - the highest in any April to October period on record. The UK’s debt is now more than 100 per cent of national income for the first time since the early 1960s. Mr Sunak said: “We’ve provided over £200 billion of support to protect the economy, lives and livelihoods from the significant and far-reaching impacts of coronavirus.
Coastal communities and former industrial heartlands will receive £220 million


thedailyexpress--2020-11-21--Priti Patel POLL: Should Boris have sacked his Home Secretary after bullying report? VOTE

Ms Patel was accused of demeaning her staff by shouting and swearing at them , which resulted in Mr Johnson launching an inquiry in March .
The Prime Minister 's independent standards adviser , Sir Alex Mr Allan found that Ms Patel had become `` justifiably in many instances '' frustrated by her department 's lack of support , and this had `` manifested itself in forceful expression , including some occasions of shouting and swearing '' .
He said : `` Her approach on occasions has amounted to behaviour that can be described as bullying in terms of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that extent her behaviour has been in breach of the Ministerial Code , even if unintentionally . ''
He concluded Ms Patel had not met the standards set under the UK 's Ministerial Code which states ministers should treat officials with respect .
Ministers usually step down if they are found to be in breach of the code .
However , a Government statement said Mr Johnson believed the code had not been breached .
It added that concerns had not been raised at the time and that Ms Patel was unaware of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ statement said : `` The Prime Minister has full confidence in the home secretary and considers this matter now closed . ''
Ms Patel apologised and said it had never been her intention to upset anyone .
He said : `` I recognise that it is for the prime minister to make a judgment on whether actions by a minister amount to a breach of the Ministerial Code .
`` But I feel that it is right that I should now resign from my position . ''
Downing Street added Mr Johnson has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Secretary and `` considers this matter now closed '' .
It comes after Mr Johnson wrote in the foreword to the Ministerial Code 's latest version that `` there must be no bullying and no harassment '' .

Priti Patel: Alex Allan resigns after PM backs Home Secretary
Ms Patel was accused of demeaning her staff by shouting and swearing at them, which resulted in Mr Johnson launching an inquiry in March. The Prime Minister's independent standards adviser, Sir Alex Mr Allan found that Ms Patel had become "justifiably in many instances" frustrated by her department's lack of support, and this had "manifested itself in forceful expression, including some occasions of shouting and swearing".
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He said: "Her approach on occasions has amounted to behaviour that can be described as bullying in terms of the impact felt by individuals.
"To that extent her behaviour has been in breach of the Ministerial Code, even if unintentionally."
He concluded Ms Patel had not met the standards set under the UK's Ministerial Code which states ministers should treat officials with respect.
Ministers usually step down if they are found to be in breach of the code.
Priti Patel was backed by Boris Johnson following the bullying report
However, a Government statement said Mr Johnson believed the code had not been breached. It added that concerns had not been raised at the time and that Ms Patel was unaware of the impact of her actions. The statement said: "The Prime Minister has full confidence in the home secretary and considers this matter now closed." Ms Patel apologised and said it had never been her intention to upset anyone. READ MORE: Priti Patel bullying row explodes as Boris's adviser RESIGNS
Priti Patel apologised following the results of the report
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After Mr Johnson cleared Ms Patel, Mr Allan resigned
He said: "I recognise that it is for the prime minister to make a judgment on whether actions by a minister amount to a breach of the Ministerial Code.
"But I feel that it is right that I should now resign from my position."
Downing Street added Mr Johnson has "full confidence" in the Home Secretary and "considers this matter now closed".
It comes after Mr Johnson wrote in the foreword to the Ministerial Code's latest version that "there must be no bullying and no harassment".
Downing Street added Mr Johnson has "full confidence" in the Home Secretary
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thedailyexpress--2020-11-21--Brexit punishment: EU BLOCKS 'mini deals' in January as UK refuses to cave on fishing

Brussels sources said a number of influential EU states have called on the European Commission to significantly ramp up the preparations for a no-deal Brexit at the end of the year .
But in a private meeting after the latest round of talks , senior diplomats insisted any measures must be unilateral and not help Britain avert potential disruptions in the New Year .
A source said : “ We need to revive our contingency planning from last year .
This needs to go through the European Parliament and Council - time is getting tight .
“ It is not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” A second source added : “ A large number of member states called on the Commission to publish the contingency proposals as soon as possible .
“ We are now in the late stage of the negotiations and there is possibility of accidents in the last six weeks . ''
The bloc last year prepared for the divorce talks to break down without an agreement because of disagreements over the controversial Northern Ireland backstop .
Senior eurocrats produced a series of new regulations to ensure disruption to air and road travel , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fisheries was limited .
They now plan to bring many of these back with the threat of an “ accidental ” no deal still on the cards , according to an EU source .
Brexit talks are set to be extended into December after another round of wrangling ended without a breakthrough .
On Thursday chief negotiators Michel Barnier and Lord Frost had to call a halt on face-to-face discussions after a member of the EU team contracted coronavirus .
Britain ’ s refusal to cave in to EU demands on fishing rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hope of progress being made .
EU sources said both sides were closing in on an agreement on most issues despite the deadlock .
In a private meeting , the bloc ’ s 27 ambassadors were told progress was now “ too slow ” and the UK and EU teams now risk running out of time to conclude a deal .
The blockages on the main sticking points were described as “ philosophical ” , according to one insider .
MUST READ : EU fury as David Frost refuses to budge on fishing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Lord Frost are not yet ready to call in political leaders to broker a final compromise .
An EU official hinted that Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen would have to make a “ political decision ” on whether to hold another round of talks .
European capitals agreed to ramp up their own preparations for a no-deal Brexit in the coming days .
“ The negotiations are now running very late .
We ’ re not there yet to enter into the final phase and the talks will run into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ DO N'T MISS France 's 'desire to use Brexit to weaken City of London ' exposed [ INSIGHT ] Pound euro exchange rate endures ‘ rangebound ’ day [ FORECAST ] Oh dear , Brussels !
No deal Brexit 'huge problem ' as EU 'so dependent ' [ REVEALED ]

Brexit: Katya Adler gives update on trade deal negotiations
Brussels sources said a number of influential EU states have called on the European Commission to significantly ramp up the preparations for a no-deal Brexit at the end of the year. But in a private meeting after the latest round of talks, senior diplomats insisted any measures must be unilateral and not help Britain avert potential disruptions in the New Year. A source said: “We need to revive our contingency planning from last year. This needs to go through the European Parliament and Council - time is getting tight.
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“It is not time for side negotiations on mini deals.” A second source added: “A large number of member states called on the Commission to publish the contingency proposals as soon as possible. “We are now in the late stage of the negotiations and there is possibility of accidents in the last six weeks." The bloc last year prepared for the divorce talks to break down without an agreement because of disagreements over the controversial Northern Ireland backstop.
EU leaders have blocked brokering mini deals with the UK to avoid no-deal Brexit disruptions
EU leaders have called for no-deal Brexit preparations to be ramped up
Senior eurocrats produced a series of new regulations to ensure disruption to air and road travel, vital food and medicine supplies, and fisheries was limited. They now plan to bring many of these back with the threat of an “accidental” no deal still on the cards, according to an EU source. Brexit talks are set to be extended into December after another round of wrangling ended without a breakthrough. On Thursday chief negotiators Michel Barnier and Lord Frost had to call a halt on face-to-face discussions after a member of the EU team contracted coronavirus.
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Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte
Britain’s refusal to cave in to EU demands on fishing rights and state aid rules had blocked any hope of progress being made. EU sources said both sides were closing in on an agreement on most issues despite the deadlock. In a private meeting, the bloc’s 27 ambassadors were told progress was now “too slow” and the UK and EU teams now risk running out of time to conclude a deal. The blockages on the main sticking points were described as “philosophical”, according to one insider. MUST READ: EU fury as David Frost refuses to budge on fishing red lines
Brexit dates: Trade talks deadlines revealed
The source said Mr Barnier and Lord Frost are not yet ready to call in political leaders to broker a final compromise. An EU official hinted that Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen would have to make a “political decision” on whether to hold another round of talks. European capitals agreed to ramp up their own preparations for a no-deal Brexit in the coming days. “The negotiations are now running very late. We’re not there yet to enter into the final phase and the talks will run into December,” One source said. DON'T MISS
France's 'desire to use Brexit to weaken City of London' exposed [INSIGHT]
Pound euro exchange rate endures ‘rangebound’ day [FORECAST]
Oh dear, Brussels! No deal Brexit 'huge problem' as EU 'so dependent' [REVEALED]
Brexit: Liz Truss slams Labour's 'anti-US' approach to trade deal


thedailyexpress--2020-11-20--Covid vaccine has ALREADY been looked at by UK regulator – decision on Pfizer jab in days

The coronavirus vaccine developed by Pfizer and BioNTech was found to have a 95 percent success rate in trial participants .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the UK Government has already asked the medicine regulator in the country to assess the suitability of the vaccine for a potential authorisation before December .
Mr Hancock said : `` Pfizer/BioNTech announced this morning that it has submitted for emergency use authorisation from the FDA based on phase-3 data that shows the vaccine is 95 percent effective with no serious safety concerns .
`` Here in the UK , the first step of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to ask the independent regulator , the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency ( MHRA ) to assess its suitability .
`` The MHRA , which acts for the entire UK , is one of the most respected regulators and I can confirm the Government has asked the MHRA to assess the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine for its suitability for authorisation . ''
Mr Hancock continued : `` This is another important step forward in tackling this pandemic .
`` If a vaccine is approved , it will , of course , be available across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the point of delivery , according to need not ability to pay .
JUST IN : Coronavirus vaccine plan LEAKED : NHS paper shows jab roll-out date for EACH age range '' We 've procured vaccines on behalf of all parts of our country and I 'm working with the devolved administrations to ensure it 's devolved fairly to all across the UK .
We will prioritise groups who are at greatest risk . ''
Discussing timings , Mr Hancock insisted the roll-out will depend on whether an authorisation is granted in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ speed of production .
The Health Secretary however insisted the NHS and other public health officials are ready to be deployed to begin vaccination as soon as a jab is available .
He said : `` I know everyone wants to know about the timing and the speed of the roll-out .
READ MORE : Coronavirus R rate drops again in latest proof England 's lockdown is working '' That will depend on the speed at which the vaccines can be manufactured .
`` We know that the manufacturing process for all vaccines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked the NHS to deploy at the speed of which the vaccine can be produced .
`` What I can say about timing is that , if – and it still is an if - the regulator approves a vaccine , we will be ready to start the vaccination next month , with the bulk of the roll-out in the new year . ''
DO N'T MISS Coronavirus update UK : Virus unlikely to be caught again [ INSIGHT ] More than 40 vaccination sites will give Covid jab to millions [ ANALYSIS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mass Covid scheme 'in weeks ' [ VIDEO ] The Health Secretary said the NHS has already been organising to proceed with vaccination as soon as the jab obtains authorisation from the MHRA .
He also reconfirmed the first round of vaccination will be focused on medical staff and carers .
Mr Hancock added : `` The roll-out of the vaccine will be a massive logistical challenge but I know the NHS can do it , not least because they deliver the flu vaccine programme each year .
`` And the NHS is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the country that can manage the logistical challenge of storing the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine at -70C .
`` In addition , it is establishing vaccination hubs in hospitals for NHS staff .
These two routes are likely to comprise the bulk of the campaign this side of the new year , then there will be a community roll-out involving GPs and pharmacists . ''

Matt Hancock announces MHRA are ’looking into Pfizer vaccine’
The coronavirus vaccine developed by Pfizer and BioNTech was found to have a 95 percent success rate in trial participants. Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the UK Government has already asked the medicine regulator in the country to assess the suitability of the vaccine for a potential authorisation before December. Mr Hancock said: "Pfizer/BioNTech announced this morning that it has submitted for emergency use authorisation from the FDA based on phase-3 data that shows the vaccine is 95 percent effective with no serious safety concerns.
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"Here in the UK, the first step of authorising the vaccine is for the Government to ask the independent regulator, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) to assess its suitability. "The MHRA, which acts for the entire UK, is one of the most respected regulators and I can confirm the Government has asked the MHRA to assess the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine for its suitability for authorisation." Mr Hancock continued: "This is another important step forward in tackling this pandemic. "If a vaccine is approved, it will, of course, be available across the UK from our NHS, free at the point of delivery, according to need not ability to pay. JUST IN: Coronavirus vaccine plan LEAKED: NHS paper shows jab roll-out date for EACH age range
Matt Hancock said the coronavirus has
Matt Hancock said if the Covid vaccine is authorised roll-out could start next month
"We've procured vaccines on behalf of all parts of our country and I'm working with the devolved administrations to ensure it's devolved fairly to all across the UK. We will prioritise groups who are at greatest risk." Discussing timings, Mr Hancock insisted the roll-out will depend on whether an authorisation is granted in the next few weeks and on the speed of production. The Health Secretary however insisted the NHS and other public health officials are ready to be deployed to begin vaccination as soon as a jab is available. He said: "I know everyone wants to know about the timing and the speed of the roll-out. READ MORE: Coronavirus R rate drops again in latest proof England's lockdown is working
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Coronavirus infections have ‘levelled off’ says ONS data
The coronavirus vaccine will undergo an emergency authorisation process
"That will depend on the speed at which the vaccines can be manufactured. "We know that the manufacturing process for all vaccines is difficult and uncertain so I've asked the NHS to deploy at the speed of which the vaccine can be produced. "What I can say about timing is that, if – and it still is an if - the regulator approves a vaccine, we will be ready to start the vaccination next month, with the bulk of the roll-out in the new year." DON'T MISS
Coronavirus update UK: Virus unlikely to be caught again [INSIGHT]
More than 40 vaccination sites will give Covid jab to millions [ANALYSIS]
UK vaccination programme THIS YEAR - Mass Covid scheme 'in weeks' [VIDEO]
Coronavirus infection rate is believed to have fallen down to 1.1


thedailyexpress--2020-11-20--'UTTER TOSH!' Britons furious as EU accused of plot to force UK to 'capitulate' on Brexit

As crucial negotiations continue ahead of the end of the transition period , both Britain and the EU are still trying to secure a deal .
With neither side able to reach an agreement , fears have erupted over the lack of time to prepare their countries for a no deal outcome .
But yesterday , European leaders in France , Belgium and the Netherlands demanded the European Commission publish its no deal plans .
Express.co.uk has been inundated with comments from furious Brits who have believe the `` arrogant '' block is posturing to force the UK to `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outrage at the EU 's plan comes after Brussels yesterday said the block was drawing up `` contingency measures '' in case there was no breakthrough in negotiations .
A senior EU diplomat said : “ We must now come up with contingency measures .
January 1 , 2021 is getting close ; we need a safety net .
“ Of course , this sends out a political signal .
But it is high time to prepare people and businesses in case we can not fix an agreement in time .
“ I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contingency measures out into the open.
” Reacting , on Express.co.uk reader simply said : “ Well , a no deal will certainly serve the UK better than the EU so go ahead , I say.
” A second added : “ The UK and the EU are not trying to secure a trade deal after months of wrangling .
READ MORE : Guy Verhofstadt furious at Hungary 's threat to veto EU budget “ The EU are trying to get the UK to capitulate so that they remain under their control .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ best for the UK , only the best for the EU .
“ Not Europe , not the member states , just the EU project.
” Someone else pointed out : “ The EU probably don ’ t have a plan for no deal as they arrogantly assumed the UK would capitulate to their every demand as we have for years.
” DO N'T MISS EU punishment plot : Brussels to humiliate UK over extension [ REVEAL ] Brexit fury : Norway warned EU not to give UK 'better deal ' [ COMMENT @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' as Boris refuses to cave [ INSIGHT ] While a fourth reader said : “ The EU members had time enough to prep for a no deal so if we leave with no deal it ’ s fine by the UK .
“ The WA can then be repudiated and we can go on our merry way without being shackled to the EU .
“ If the EU put a border into NI then they will be effectively going against the GFA and they then will have to deploy their own EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that then.
” Another reader said it was “ absolute and utter tosh ” .
They wrote : “ What absolute and utter TOSH - since Article 50 was notified and the `` supposed '' transitional period began running down the default position was NO DEAL ( to deal on WTO terms ) .
“ Both the EU & UK have had this ‘ transitional period ’ to prepare their businesses for trading on WTO terms al-be-it with severe disruption to the status quo and if there was to be a deal then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sides BUT the point being THEY HAVE HAD MORE THAN SUFFICIENT TIME TO PREPARE their contingency ( plan A & plan B ) plans.
” Someone else said a no deal Brexit was “ always ” going to be the best outcome for the UK but claimed the Government does not “ have the guts to just do it ” .
They said : “ A no deal is and always going to be the best outcome for the UK !

Brexit: Macron 'cannot be seen to concede too early' says expert
As crucial negotiations continue ahead of the end of the transition period, both Britain and the EU are still trying to secure a deal. With neither side able to reach an agreement, fears have erupted over the lack of time to prepare their countries for a no deal outcome.
Trending
But yesterday, European leaders in France, Belgium and the Netherlands demanded the European Commission publish its no deal plans. Express.co.uk has been inundated with comments from furious Brits who have believe the "arrogant" block is posturing to force the UK to "capitulate" in trade talks. Their outrage at the EU's plan comes after Brussels yesterday said the block was drawing up "contingency measures" in case there was no breakthrough in negotiations. A senior EU diplomat said: “We must now come up with contingency measures. January 1, 2021 is getting close; we need a safety net.
Britons furious as EU accused of Brexit plot
Boris Johnson to end transition period in December
“Of course, this sends out a political signal. But it is high time to prepare people and businesses in case we cannot fix an agreement in time. “I know member states will ask to get contingency measures out into the open.” Reacting, on Express.co.uk reader simply said: “Well, a no deal will certainly serve the UK better than the EU so go ahead, I say.” A second added: “The UK and the EU are not trying to secure a trade deal after months of wrangling. READ MORE: Guy Verhofstadt furious at Hungary's threat to veto EU budget
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Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte
European fishing dependence on UK waters
While a fourth reader said: “The EU members had time enough to prep for a no deal so if we leave with no deal it’s fine by the UK. “The WA can then be repudiated and we can go on our merry way without being shackled to the EU. “If the EU put a border into NI then they will be effectively going against the GFA and they then will have to deploy their own EU troops to police it… good luck with that then.” Another reader said it was “absolute and utter tosh”.
Fishing remains one of the key issues in talks
They wrote: “What absolute and utter TOSH - since Article 50 was notified and the "supposed" transitional period began running down the default position was NO DEAL( to deal on WTO terms). “Both the EU & UK have had this ‘transitional period’ to prepare their businesses for trading on WTO terms al-be-it with severe disruption to the status quo and if there was to be a deal then this would be a bonus to both sides BUT the point being THEY HAVE HAD MORE THAN SUFFICIENT TIME TO PREPARE their contingency (plan A & plan B) plans.” Someone else said a no deal Brexit was “always” going to be the best outcome for the UK but claimed the Government does not “have the guts to just do it”. They said: “A no deal is and always going to be the best outcome for the UK!
Boris urged to get Brexit done
“Unfortunately our government has never had the guts to just do it, we could have saved Billions, be on our way to a better future, but no we have been played like a violin for over 4 long and very tortious years. “Would someone just pull the plug on this farce called negotiations!” France, Belgium and the Netherlands are believed to be the most concerned about post-Brexit fishing rights, as they have large fishing industries reliant on access to British waters.
EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier


thedailyexpress--2020-11-20--EU panic: Boris Johnson 'turns tables' on German car companies with huge threat

Britain announced earlier this week it is banning the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans from 2030 - five years earlier than initially planned - as part of the Prime Minister 's plans for a `` green revolution '' to cut emissions to net zero by 2050 .
Mr Johnson said the plan would aim to free up £12billion pounds of Government money with as much as three times that amount coming from the private sector , while creating to supporting 250,000 highly skilled green jobs by 2030 .
Last year , Britain became the first G7 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ zero emission target by 2050 , which will require wholesale changes in the way people in the country travel and use energy .
But there are fears the move to ban the registration of internal combustion engines from 2030 will significantly hit the German car industry - a lucrative export avenue for the country with the European Union 's biggest economy .
Germany is home to some of the biggest and well-known car manufacturers in the world , including Audi , BMW , Mercedes-Benz , Porsche and Volkswagen .
However , with just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life outside the EU on January 1 , 2021 , German panic is starting to set in .
In an editorial for Welt , Alan Posener , a former edit of the German newspaper Welt , wrote : `` Great Britain is pushing ahead and banning the registration of internal combustion engines from 2030 .
“ Boris Johnson is putting German automakers under pressure - and exposing years of neglect by the federal government .
“ Boris Johnson proves that ecological radicalism is not a prerogative of left or green politics .
His @ @ @ @ @ @ @ radical than anything that has been decided on the continent so far .
`` And with the ban on the registration of new internal combustion engines from 2030 - i.e .
in ten years - the Conservative Government will hit the export-oriented German auto industry , which is struggling with innovations .
“ In the run-up to Brexit , Johnson argued that the Germans ' desire to export their cars to the UK would force the European Union to accept the UK terms for future relations , namely access to the common single @ @ @ @ @ @ @ market such as free movement of people .
`` That did n't happen .
As much as the German industry values the British market ; the integrity of the continental European market is more important to them . ''
Mr Posener warned Mr Johnson is now `` turning the tables '' as German car manufacturers would lose much of the British market to global rivals if they do n't introduce competitive electric cars soon .
He praised the job done by Germany Chancellor Angela Merkel in promoting the country 's car industry and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issued a huge warning to her federal government .
The journalist continued : `` Now Johnson is turning the tables : If German automakers do n't bring competitive electric cars onto the market soon , they 'll lose the British market to American and Chinese competitors .
From around 2025 every Brit considering buying a new car should be on the lookout for an electric vehicle .
DO N'T MISS Von der Leyen declares new 'movement ' in Brexit trade talks [ COMMENT ] Heath sold out UK fishermen back then Boris must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK-US special relationship hinges on 'final weeks of 2020 ' [ INSIGHT ] '' The depreciation of gasoline , diesel and even hybrid vehicles , which can still be sold until 2035 , will accelerate from year to year .
“ Angela Merkel 's Government spared the German auto industry and promoted it wherever it could : protected it from stricter European emissions regulations ; the scrapping bonus is not linked to energy efficiency ; the ban on new registrations of cars with internal combustion engines was postponed .
`` But it shows @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a disservice if they give in to their lobbyists and pamper innovation-tired managers .
`` The most important German markets - China and California , for example - have long since decided to end the combustion engine from 2030 .
“ Johnson wants the UK to be carbon neutral by 2050 .
Huge investments in quadrupling offshore wind power and CO2-free local public transport , but also in new , smaller and effective nuclear power plants and CO2 storage , serve this ambitious goal .
`` The populist 's plan shows that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the watchword for conservative forces are over .
Government activism is the order of the day .
And that 's just as well .
`` Hopefully Germany wo n't miss this train as well . ''
The UK and EU remain locked in talks over a post-Brexit trade deal but with just six weeks until the end of the transition period on December 31 , time is running out to get an agreement over the line .

Brexit: Katya Adler gives update on trade deal negotiations
Britain announced earlier this week it is banning the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans from 2030 - five years earlier than initially planned - as part of the Prime Minister's plans for a "green revolution" to cut emissions to net zero by 2050. Mr Johnson said the plan would aim to free up £12billion pounds of Government money with as much as three times that amount coming from the private sector, while creating to supporting 250,000 highly skilled green jobs by 2030. Last year, Britain became the first G7 country to set in law a net zero emission target by 2050, which will require wholesale changes in the way people in the country travel and use energy.
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But there are fears the move to ban the registration of internal combustion engines from 2030 will significantly hit the German car industry - a lucrative export avenue for the country with the European Union's biggest economy. Germany is home to some of the biggest and well-known car manufacturers in the world, including Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and Volkswagen. However, with just six weeks before the UK finally begins life outside the EU on January 1, 2021, German panic is starting to set in. In an editorial for Welt, Alan Posener, a former edit of the German newspaper Welt, wrote: "Great Britain is pushing ahead and banning the registration of internal combustion engines from 2030.
Boris Johnson is piling the pressure on German car manufacturers
Boris Johnson has been on the front foot in Brexit talks
“Boris Johnson is putting German automakers under pressure - and exposing years of neglect by the federal government. “Boris Johnson proves that ecological radicalism is not a prerogative of left or green politics. His “Green Industrial Revolution” is more radical than anything that has been decided on the continent so far. "And with the ban on the registration of new internal combustion engines from 2030 - i.e. in ten years - the Conservative Government will hit the export-oriented German auto industry, which is struggling with innovations. “In the run-up to Brexit, Johnson argued that the Germans' desire to export their cars to the UK would force the European Union to accept the UK terms for future relations, namely access to the common single market without accepting the terms of that market such as free movement of people. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: Barnier stunned with no-deal Brexit demand
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The UK is a valuable trading partner for German car manufacturers
"That didn't happen. As much as the German industry values the British market; the integrity of the continental European market is more important to them." Mr Posener warned Mr Johnson is now "turning the tables" as German car manufacturers would lose much of the British market to global rivals if they don't introduce competitive electric cars soon. He praised the job done by Germany Chancellor Angela Merkel in promoting the country's car industry and helping it as much as possible but issued a huge warning to her federal government. The journalist continued: "Now Johnson is turning the tables: If German automakers don't bring competitive electric cars onto the market soon, they'll lose the British market to American and Chinese competitors. From around 2025 every Brit considering buying a new car should be on the lookout for an electric vehicle. DON'T MISS
Von der Leyen declares new 'movement' in Brexit trade talks [COMMENT]
Heath sold out UK fishermen back then Boris must not betray them TODAY [OPINION]
UK-US special relationship hinges on 'final weeks of 2020' [INSIGHT]
German carmakers are fearing the consequences of Brexit
Angela Merkel has been sent a huge Brexit warning
"The depreciation of gasoline, diesel and even hybrid vehicles, which can still be sold until 2035, will accelerate from year to year. “Angela Merkel's Government spared the German auto industry and promoted it wherever it could: protected it from stricter European emissions regulations; the scrapping bonus is not linked to energy efficiency; the ban on new registrations of cars with internal combustion engines was postponed. "But it shows once again that governments are doing companies a disservice if they give in to their lobbyists and pamper innovation-tired managers. "The most important German markets - China and California, for example - have long since decided to end the combustion engine from 2030.
Germany would be hit significantly by a no deal Brexit
“Johnson wants the UK to be carbon neutral by 2050. Huge investments in quadrupling offshore wind power and CO2-free local public transport, but also in new, smaller and effective nuclear power plants and CO2 storage, serve this ambitious goal. "The populist's plan shows that the times when “small Government” was the watchword for conservative forces are over. Government activism is the order of the day. And that's just as well. "Hopefully Germany won't miss this train as well." The UK and EU remain locked in talks over a post-Brexit trade deal but with just six weeks until the end of the transition period on December 31, time is running out to get an agreement over the line.


thedailyexpress--2020-11-20--'This is absolutely shocking!' Emily Thornberry torn apart by James Cleverly in BBC QT row

The Shadow International Trade Secretary insisted that while Jeremy Corbyn has `` shortcomings '' , he would have been a `` kind and radical '' Prime Minister .
But Tory MP James Cleverly described her comments as `` absolutely shocking '' in a clash on BBC Question Time .
Ms Thornberry said : `` I 've known Jeremy for a long time , more than 15 years .
`` He 's a neighbouring constituency MP to me and I believe if he has been Prime Minister , he would have been radical , kind , profoundly principled .
`` He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that he allowed his own personal feelings get in the way , he felt he was personally under attack on the issue of anti-Semitism .
`` He was n't able to step back and take an objective view or it and make proper decisions .
`` That was a profound weakness and that 's something he knows . ''
READ MORE : BBCQT : Fiona Bruce SCOFFS at Tory MP in Boris devolution row BBC presenter Fiona Bruce asked : `` Do you think he ever will apologise for what the EHRC called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ms Thornberry continued : `` I do n't know , I do n't feel it 's right for me to speculate .
`` I certainly hope that he does and takes this opportunity to think through but we need to move on and find a solution . ''
Mr Cleverly interjected : `` That 's absolutely shocking .
How much evidence do you need ?
`` He spent decades associating with 9/11 truthers and Holocaust deniers , the idea that this way somehow too hard to see and that even with the evidence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ here saying you do not regret trying to install him as Prime Minister , that is genuinely shocking . ''
Ms Thornberry responded : `` Jeremy Corbyn has spent his life fighting racism in his country and that is what he has done . ''
BBCQT : Furious Brexiteers condemn David Lammy over Brexit [ INSIGHT ] BBC QT : Matt Hancock breaks silence on vaccine setbacks [ ANALYSIS ] BBC Question Time : Tory MP hits back at Fiona Bruce [ VIDEO ] Sir Keir Starmer 's decision to block Mr Corbyn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his readmission as a party member has reignited the civil war on the opposition benches .
Shadow Chancellor Anneliese Dodds said a `` politicised '' disciplinary process had resulted in Mr Corbyn 's readmittance to the party after his suspension - imposed in the wake of a damning report into the handling of anti-Semitism in Labour - was lifted on Tuesday .
Labour leader Sir Keir said on Wednesday morning that he would not restore the whip , meaning Mr Corbyn will continue to sit as an independent MP and will not be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Former Shadow Home Secretary Diane Abbott , an ally of Mr Corbyn , questioned whether Sir Keir would ever have been elected leader if members knew how he would act against his predecessor .
She said excluding Mr Corbyn was `` wrong '' and Sir Keir 's actions were `` no way to unite the party '' .

Jeremy Corbyn: Cleverly slams Thornberry on Question Time
The Shadow International Trade Secretary insisted that while Jeremy Corbyn has "shortcomings", he would have been a "kind and radical" Prime Minister. But Tory MP James Cleverly described her comments as "absolutely shocking" in a clash on BBC Question Time. Ms Thornberry said: "I've known Jeremy for a long time, more than 15 years.
Trending
"He's a neighbouring constituency MP to me and I believe if he has been Prime Minister, he would have been radical, kind, profoundly principled. "He had shortcomings and one of them was that he allowed his own personal feelings get in the way, he felt he was personally under attack on the issue of anti-Semitism. "He wasn't able to step back and take an objective view or it and make proper decisions. "That was a profound weakness and that's something he knows." READ MORE: BBCQT: Fiona Bruce SCOFFS at Tory MP in Boris devolution row
Emily Thornberry was torn apart for defending Jeremy Corbyn
James Cleverly escribed her comments as "absolutely shocking"
BBC presenter Fiona Bruce asked: "Do you think he ever will apologise for what the EHRC called the 'failures of leadership'?" Ms Thornberry continued: "I don't know, I don't feel it's right for me to speculate. "I certainly hope that he does and takes this opportunity to think through but we need to move on and find a solution." Mr Cleverly interjected: "That's absolutely shocking. How much evidence do you need?
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Jeremy Corbyn was resinstated as a member of the Labour Party
Sturgeon is ‘pushing’ independence agenda says QT viewer
"He spent decades associating with 9/11 truthers and Holocaust deniers, the idea that this way somehow too hard to see and that even with the evidence presented by that report you're still here saying you do not regret trying to install him as Prime Minister, that is genuinely shocking." Ms Thornberry responded: "Jeremy Corbyn has spent his life fighting racism in his country and that is what he has done." Mr Cleverly claimed he "demonstrably hasn't". DON'T MISS BBCQT: Furious Brexiteers condemn David Lammy over Brexit [INSIGHT]
BBC QT: Matt Hancock breaks silence on vaccine setbacks [ANALYSIS]
BBC Question Time: Tory MP hits back at Fiona Bruce [VIDEO]
Labour manifesto 2019


thedailyexpress--2020-11-21--POLL: Should foreign aid spending be cut to help pay UK's huge coronavirus bill? VOTE HERE

But should the UK cut the foreign aid in a bid to save money to cover the huge bill caused by the coronavirus pandemic ?
Vote in Express.co.uk ’ s poll .
The proposed budget cut comes as Westminster plans to introduce a £15 billion fund to help the UK survive the coronavirus pandemic which has crippled the country ’ s economy .
But the controversial proposals have been slated down by former prime ministers Tony Blair and David Cameron as a “ strategic mistake ” .
The spending on aid is related to gross national income which , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a drop from 0.7 percent to 0.5 percent would account for more than £4 billion .
As the spending aid is related to the national income , a 0.2 percent drop based on 2019 gross national income would mean a cut of more than £4 billion .
Mr Blair said foreign aid - and the 0.7 target - had been a `` great British soft power achievement '' and that it had saved millions of lives in Africa by reducing deaths from malaria and HIV .
He added to the Telegraph : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the challenge of climate or Covid-19 can be met without Africa .
“ Nor can those of extremism and uncontrolled immigration .
To change it is a profound strategic mistake.
” READ MORE : Nana Akua slaps down Owen Jones in foreign aid row The controversial decision has also been condemned by 185 development and humanitarian organisations in a letter signed by likes of Unicef UK and Save the Children .
The letter said : “ Stepping back from our international commitments is not the solution and risks damaging the UK 's standing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world post-Brexit .
`` A U-turn on your manifesto commitment to maintain the 0.7 % target would signal we are a nation willing to balance its books on the backs of the world 's most marginalised people , many of whom are dealing with the impact of Covid-19 on top of existing hardship . ''
David Cameron , who was the first Prime Minister to oversee the country meet the expected 0.7 % goal in 2013 , also stressed abandoning the target would be “ a moral , strategic and political mistake @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aid budget could be SCRAPPED under Rishi Sunal plans [ REVEAL ] Tony Blair orders Boris to keep Britain 's £15bn foreign aid budget [ LATEST ] Overseas aid 'could be slashed by £4bn ' - public finances under strain [ INSIGHT ] He explained : `` Moral , because we should be keeping our promises to the world 's poorest.
” “ A strategic error , because we would be signalling retreat from one of the UK 's vital acts of global leadership .
`` And a political mistake because the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ important climate change negotiations .
“ I hope the PM will stick to his clear manifesto promise , maintain UK leadership and save lives . ''
The Prime Minister ’ s official spokesman stated the UK has no legal obligation to meet the target of 0.7 percent but stressed the legislation acknowledged this might not always be met .

GMB: Susanna Reid grills Ben Wallace over UK foreign aid
But should the UK cut the foreign aid in a bid to save money to cover the huge bill caused by the coronavirus pandemic? Vote in Express.co.uk’s poll.
Trending
The proposed budget cut comes as Westminster plans to introduce a £15 billion fund to help the UK survive the coronavirus pandemic which has crippled the country’s economy.
But the controversial proposals have been slated down by former prime ministers Tony Blair and David Cameron as a “strategic mistake”.
The spending on aid is related to gross national income which, in 2019, was £2.17 trillion, meaning a drop from 0.7 percent to 0.5 percent would account for more than £4 billion.
As the spending aid is related to the national income, a 0.2 percent drop based on 2019 gross national income would mean a cut of more than £4 billion.
Tony Blair slammed the foreign aid budget
Mr Blair said foreign aid - and the 0.7 target - had been a "great British soft power achievement" and that it had saved millions of lives in Africa by reducing deaths from malaria and HIV.
He added to the Telegraph: “It's enlightened self-interest.
“Neither the challenge of climate or Covid-19 can be met without Africa.
“Nor can those of extremism and uncontrolled immigration. To change it is a profound strategic mistake.” READ MORE: Nana Akua slaps down Owen Jones in foreign aid row
David Cameron has condemned the planned budget cut
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Should the Government cut the foreign aid to help the UK economy during the pandemic?
The controversial decision has also been condemned by 185 development and humanitarian organisations in a letter signed by likes of Unicef UK and Save the Children.
The letter said: “Stepping back from our international commitments is not the solution and risks damaging the UK's standing globally as we define our role in the world post-Brexit.
"A U-turn on your manifesto commitment to maintain the 0.7% target would signal we are a nation willing to balance its books on the backs of the world's most marginalised people, many of whom are dealing with the impact of Covid-19 on top of existing hardship."
David Cameron, who was the first Prime Minister to oversee the country meet the expected 0.7% goal in 2013, also stressed abandoning the target would be “a moral, strategic and political mistake”. DON'T MISS: International aid budget could be SCRAPPED under Rishi Sunal plans [REVEAL]
Tony Blair orders Boris to keep Britain's £15bn foreign aid budget [LATEST]
Overseas aid 'could be slashed by £4bn' - public finances under strain [INSIGHT]
Rishi Sunak is expected to announce the cuts next week


thedailyexpress--2020-11-21--'This is why we left!' Widdecombe attacks EU plot to ignore member states on Brexit deal

The former Tory minister and Brexit Party MEP launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Boris Johnson , accusing him of being too `` weak '' to capitalise of Brussels ' obvious desperation to tie up an agreement .
With 40 days remaining before the end of the transition period , both sides are working feverishly to get a deal over the line , with suggestions one could be unveiled by the end of the month .
However , it has been suggested the European Commission , led by President Ursula von der Leyen , is ready to rush through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the European Parliament or individual member states .
Miss Widdecombe told Express.co.uk : `` If they can really do that without all of the other countries being happy , that does say why we left the bloc .
`` The fact is nobody is surprised any longer .
`` The major reason we got out was so that we could n't be bossed around .
`` But nobody is surprised when the EU just decides to shortcut consultations . ''
She added : `` The other thing it shows it that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` And if Boris had any sense at all he would be using that .
`` Because it is always being portrayed that no deal is a problem for Britain but it is obviously a massive problem for the EU , and they are desperate to avoid it .
`` And were I Boris I would really be relying on that .
`` I would simply say the issues that remain are the issues that have been troublesome all along - fishing , state aid and the ECJ . ''
JUST IN @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on devolution 'false prosperity' Miss Widdecombe suggested huge problems remain which were unlikely to be resolved in the course of a few short days .
She said : `` When people say 95 percent of the deal is done , 95 percent of the deal was always going to be done .
`` The things that remain are the stumbling blocks and Boris now should say 'it is obvious you do n't want a deal and are rushing it through , but you will get no deal unless you come to our terms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end-all is that Boris is just weak . ''
DO N'T MISS Immigration reforms finally signed into law , declares Priti Patel [ REVEALED ] Priti Patel tells police chiefs they MUST defend freedom of speech [ INSIGHT ] 'Ludicrous !
Latest figures show absurd amount of money spent [ FIGURES ] Mr Johnson was desperate to get something signed off for the end of the year , said Miss Widdecombe .
`` The fact is he has n't made any proper preparation to do otherwise and nor actually has the EU .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ but they have not done in earnest because both sides are thinking they will come to some sort of deal . ''
Any trade deal was likely to be a `` threadbare arrangement '' which amounted to an extension of the transition period in everything but name , Miss Widdecombe predicted .
She warned : `` Boris is in the habit of simply extending deadlines and there are more ways than one of extending a deadline .
`` They can say we have got a provisional deal and the rest will be tied @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In other words , we have n't actually got a deal . ''
Mr Parsons told Sky News : `` One thing that jumps out is something called provisional application .
`` What that might mean is that if a deal is agreed at the last-minute , it 's put in place before it 's even ratified .

Brexit: Nigel Farage warns 'history will judge' Johnson
The former Tory minister and Brexit Party MEP launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Boris Johnson, accusing him of being too "weak" to capitalise of Brussels' obvious desperation to tie up an agreement. With 40 days remaining before the end of the transition period, both sides are working feverishly to get a deal over the line, with suggestions one could be unveiled by the end of the month.
Trending
However, it has been suggested the European Commission, led by President Ursula von der Leyen, is ready to rush through a last-minute agreement without it being ratified by the European Parliament or individual member states. Miss Widdecombe told Express.co.uk: "If they can really do that without all of the other countries being happy, that does say why we left the bloc. "The fact is nobody is surprised any longer. "The major reason we got out was so that we couldn't be bossed around. "But nobody is surprised when the EU just decides to shortcut consultations."
Ann Widdecombe said nobody was surprised by Ursula von der Leyen's European Commission
Boris Johnson is "weak", said Miss Widdecombe
The major reason we got out was so that we couldn't be bossed around Ann Widdecombe
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She added: "The other thing it shows it that the EU is obviously desperate for a deal. "And if Boris had any sense at all he would be using that. "Because it is always being portrayed that no deal is a problem for Britain but it is obviously a massive problem for the EU, and they are desperate to avoid it. "And were I Boris I would really be relying on that. "I would simply say the issues that remain are the issues that have been troublesome all along - fishing, state aid and the ECJ." JUST IN: Boris exposed 'conspiracy of silence' on devolution 'false prosperity'
Michel Barnier, the EU's chief negotiator
Miss Widdecombe suggested huge problems remain which were unlikely to be resolved in the course of a few short days. She said: "When people say 95 percent of the deal is done, 95 percent of the deal was always going to be done. "The things that remain are the stumbling blocks and Boris now should say 'it is obvious you don't want a deal and are rushing it through, but you will get no deal unless you come to our terms'. "The be-all and the end-all is that Boris is just weak." DON'T MISS
Immigration reforms finally signed into law, declares Priti Patel [REVEALED]
Priti Patel tells police chiefs they MUST defend freedom of speech [INSIGHT]
'Ludicrous! Latest figures show absurd amount of money spent [FIGURES]
Ursula von der Leyen and Michel Barnier speak in the European Parliament
Ann Widdecombe is a former Brexit Party MEP
Mr Johnson was desperate to get something signed off for the end of the year, said Miss Widdecombe. "The fact is he hasn't made any proper preparation to do otherwise and nor actually has the EU. "Both of them say they have but they have not done in earnest because both sides are thinking they will come to some sort of deal." Any trade deal was likely to be a "threadbare arrangement" which amounted to an extension of the transition period in everything but name, Miss Widdecombe predicted.
Trade deal timetable
She warned: "Boris is in the habit of simply extending deadlines and there are more ways than one of extending a deadline. "They can say we have got a provisional deal and the rest will be tied up later - which is semantics. In other words, we haven't actually got a deal." European Correspondent Adam Parsons told Sky News: "One thing that jumps out is something called provisional application. "What that might mean is that if a deal is agreed at the last-minute, it's put in place before it's even ratified.
Lord David Frost, Mr Barnier's UK counterpart


thedailyexpress--2020-11-21--Angela Merkel crisis: German leader urged to resign after humiliating lockdown rebellion

Angela Merkel was humiliated earlier this week after she was forced to postpone plans to tighten lockdown rules .
The German chancellor was forced into the surprise U-turn after admitting she did not have the backing of state leaders in the country to push through the new rules .
This followed a massive anti-lockdown protest in Berlin against the planned measures , which drew several thousand people .
Protesters at the rally carried banners reading : “ Merkel must go , democracy must stay !
” The protesters faced a brutal response from the police , who deployed a water @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gate .
The police also detained several people when the crowd refused to disperse , prompting protesters to retaliated by throwing bottles and setting off smoke bombs .
Barricades were set up to prevent protesters from storming the Bundestag , after a police issued a warning about possible “ attacks ” on the parliamentary building .
JUST IN : Paris riots : French police fire water cannons at protestors Angela Merkel said after the meeting with state leaders : “ I could have imagined imposing further contact restrictions today , but there was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ German government was forced to drop plans to make mask-wearing compulsory in schools , reduce class sizes and limit social contact to one household or friend .
The Chancellor had also wanted to ban any kind of party until Christmas Eve but was blocked following pressure from state leaders wary of the economic cost .
The critics of the new lockdown push claim the laws would give Mrs Merkel too much power and endanger citizens ’ civil rights without the approval of Parliament .
The far-right Alternative for Germany ( AfD ) has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Act of 1933 that paved the way for Adolf Hitler ’ s Nazi regime .
Germany imposed a month-long 'lockdown lite ' on 2nd November to curb the second wave that is sweeping much of Europe .
Under the current rules , people are being encouraged to stay home , restaurants and bars remain closed , and public meetings are limited to just two households of up to 10 people in total .
EU chaos : Defiant Brussels could force Hungary and Poland OUT of bloc [ ANALYSIS ] Rees-Mogg shuts down SNP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ VIDEO ] Kate Middleton gives fans rare glimpse into family home with William [ INSIGHT ]

Germany: Anti-lockdown protesters hold demonstration in Berlin
Angela Merkel was humiliated earlier this week after she was forced to postpone plans to tighten lockdown rules. The German chancellor was forced into the surprise U-turn after admitting she did not have the backing of state leaders in the country to push through the new rules. This followed a massive anti-lockdown protest in Berlin against the planned measures, which drew several thousand people.
Trending
Protesters at the rally carried banners reading: “Merkel must go, democracy must stay!” The protesters faced a brutal response from the police, who deployed a water cannon near Berlin’s landmark Brandenburg Gate. The police also detained several people when the crowd refused to disperse, prompting protesters to retaliated by throwing bottles and setting off smoke bombs. Barricades were set up to prevent protesters from storming the Bundestag, after a police issued a warning about possible “attacks” on the parliamentary building. JUST IN: Paris riots: French police fire water cannons at protestors
Angela Merkel was humiliated earlier this week after she was forced to postpone lockdown plans
A massive anti-lockdown protest in Berlin against the planned measures, drew several thousand people
Angela Merkel said after the meeting with state leaders: “I could have imagined imposing further contact restrictions today, but there was no majority for that." The German government was forced to drop plans to make mask-wearing compulsory in schools, reduce class sizes and limit social contact to one household or friend. The Chancellor had also wanted to ban any kind of party until Christmas Eve but was blocked following pressure from state leaders wary of the economic cost. The critics of the new lockdown push claim the laws would give Mrs Merkel too much power and endanger citizens’ civil rights without the approval of Parliament.
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The German government was forced to drop plans to make mask-wearing compulsory in schools
The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) has even compared the measures with the Enabling Act of 1933 that paved the way for Adolf Hitler’s Nazi regime. Germany imposed a month-long 'lockdown lite' on 2nd November to curb the second wave that is sweeping much of Europe. Under the current rules, people are being encouraged to stay home, restaurants and bars remain closed, and public meetings are limited to just two households of up to 10 people in total. DON'T MISS: EU chaos: Defiant Brussels could force Hungary and Poland OUT of bloc [ANALYSIS]
Rees-Mogg shuts down SNP's independence dream by exposing Sturgeon [VIDEO]
Kate Middleton gives fans rare glimpse into family home with William [INSIGHT]
The protesters faced a brutal crackdown, with police deploying a water cannon


thedailyexpress--2020-11-21--Boris Johnson tears apart SNP record in Scotland – lists THREE worst performing areas

The Prime Minister used a speech at the Scottish Tory Conference to slam the party ’ s record on independence and take a swipe at Nicola Sturgeon .
Mr Johnson said : `` The way the SNP have handled devolution in Scotland has been a disaster – from plummeting education standards , low business confidence and the lowest satisfaction in public services ever – their record is abysmal .
It comes as YouGov 's latest research puts support for Scotland leaving the UK at 51 percent with 49 percent wanting the country to remain in the union .
Mr Johnson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have policies to show how devolution can work for Scotland , rather than the SNP obsession with making devolution work against the rest of the UK .
`` However , just because I criticise devolved performance , does not mean I want to end or undermine devolution .
`` As a former Mayor of London , I know how effective devolved powers can be , for example in making transport greener and in tackling crime ; devolution should not be used by politicians as a wall to break an area of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should be used as a step , to pass power down to local communities and businesses to make their lives better . ''
Tensions between SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon and the Prime Minister soared after he told Conservative MPs on Monday that devolution had been `` Tony Blair 's biggest mistake '' .
But Douglas Ross , who leads the Conservatives in Scotland , insisted that `` devolution has not been a disaster '' in response to Mr Johnson 's remarks on Monday .
Mr Johnson stressed that in order for the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ separation must end - and for it to end , so must the division . ''
He said : `` So I would like to thank the Scottish Government for the way it has worked with the UK Government to try and tackle this virus over these past months and appeal to them to continue working with us , making use of the vaccine stocks , tests kits and new technology that come from being part of what is still one of the world ’ s leading scientific superpowers .
`` COVID-19 doesn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our political differences , we all need to work together at this time to protect the health and jobs of people in Scotland . ''
READ MORE : Scotland gets £2,000 MORE per person than England He stressed the debate of Scottish independence would `` return in full force when the threat of the virus has abated . ''
Mr Johnson continued : `` When we take up the cudgels of political battle again , let ’ s never forget what we have achieved through cooperation – through working across the whole of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deadly threat that respects no tier of government or boundaries .
`` My view is clear – nobody could be more proud than I am of our United Kingdom and the vital contribution Scotland makes to it .
`` Too often this conversation becomes about pounds and pence , but what I know , and many others believe also , is that our United Kingdom goes much further than that . ''
DO N'T MISS : Boris tears apart SNP record in Scotland – lists THREE worst areas [ REVEAL ] Sturgeon to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soar over indy [ LATEST ] SNP admits motorists 'unlikely ' to be stopped by police despite ban [ INSIGHT ] Mr Johnson said there was a bottom line with the SNP , adding : `` Whatever the differences the SNP and I have on our shared future , I ’ m clear that none of it should get in the way of giving you and your children the opportunities and the quality of life you deserve .
`` Not when we ’ ve all got a stake in this .
And especially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic to beat . ''
He also praised Scottish Conservative Leader Douglas Ross stressing : `` And in my friend Douglas Ross , you have a leader of our party in Scotland who is the very personification of Unionism – someone who believes deeply in the United Kingdom and in fighting for Scotland ’ s best interests within that Union . ''
Mr Johnson concluded that to boost Scotland ’ s economy and create more and better-paid jobs for Scottish workers , he stressed `` let ’ s unite and work together to @ @ @ @

Boris Johnson hits out at SNP’s handling of devolution
Mr Johnson said he had always fully supported Scottish devolution after he reportedly described it as a "disaster" in a conference call with Tory MPs branding it "Tony Blair's biggest mistake". On Saturday, in a speech at the Scottish Conservative Conference, however, the Prime Minister insisted his remarks had been reported "not entirely accurately".
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Mr Johnson stressed his "round, unvarnished view" was that "the way the SNP has handled devolution in Scotland has been a disaster". Addressing delegates, he claimed the coronavirus pandemic means the Scottish and UK governments need to work together to "rebuild from its ravages" and give people a "better, brighter future". Mr Johnson made clear that despite the increase in support for Scottish independence, he insisted "frankly" that this was not the time for "division or distraction about our national constitution". The most recent YouGov polling conducted earlier this month put the SNP on 56 percent for the constituency vote and 47 percent for the regional list. The Scottish Conservatives stood at 19 percent and 20 percent respectively, while Scottish Labour were on 15 percent and 13 percent.
Boris Johnson addressed the Scottish Conservatives Conference today
Boris Johnson addressed the Scottish Tory Conference today
Professor of Politics at Strathclyde University John Curtice, and Scottish polling guru, said the SNP had been handed a Christmas present from the comments about downplaying devolution. He said: “The UK government has been concerned about Scotland for quite a while. “The comments count in the ‘not helpful’ category. “Boris has gifted them [the SNP] the opportunity to portray the UK Government as them trying to curb the powers of the Scottish Parliament. “The SNP probably can’t believe their luck.” READ MORE: Scotland gets £2,000 MORE per person than England
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Nicola Sturgeon
Mr Johnson also said the SNP led administration had caused “plummeting education standards, low business confidence and the lowest satisfaction in public services ever” in Scotland. He continued: “The key is to have policies to show how devolution can work for Scotland, rather than the SNP obsession with making devolution work against the rest of the UK. “However, just because I criticise devolved performance, does not mean I want to end or undermine devolution.” Turning to the coronavirus pandemic, Mr Johnson thanked Nicola Sturgeon and her government for the way they had worked together with UK ministers and fellow politicians to tackle the virus, which he branded a "plague". But he stressed politicians regardless of their party needed to work together making use of “vaccine stocks, test kits and new technology that come from being part of what is one of the world's leading scientific superpowers". DON'T MISS:
Boris tears apart SNP record in Scotland – lists THREE worst areas [REVEAL]
Sturgeon to FACE off with Boris today as tensions soar over indy [LATEST]
SNP admits motorists 'unlikely' to be stopped by police despite ban [INSIGHT]
Support for Scottish independence sits at 55 percent
He continued: “COVID-19 doesn't care about constitutional arrangements and whatever our political differences. "We all need to work together at this time to protect the health and jobs of the people of Scotland." He stressed the “cut and thrust” of normal political debate would "return in full force when the threat of the virus has abated." Mr Johnson continued: "When we take up the cudgels of political battle again, let’s never forget what we have achieved through cooperation – through working across the whole of our United Kingdom to face down a deadly threat that respects no tier of government or boundaries. "My view is clear – nobody could be more proud than I am of our United Kingdom and the vital contribution Scotland makes to it.
Support for independence was highest at 58 percent


thedailyexpress--2020-11-21--EU chaos: Defiant Brussels could REMOVE Hungary and Poland from bloc in budget stand-off

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Hungary and Poland sparked EU outrage this week after they vetoed the €1.8 trillion 2021-2027 budget and recovery fund .
The two member-states vetoed the plan because access to the funds would be conditional upon respecting the rule of law .
There is growing fury among EU leaders in Brussels at the `` unacceptable '' veto , amid claims Hungary and Poland could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bloc .
German Chancellor Angela Merkel refused to say whether one of the options being considered would be to threaten the two countries with taking away their voting rights .
The German Chancellor responded : “ For me the word ‘ threaten ’ is not the right word in this context .
`` We are obliged to try to find a way out .
It ’ s a serious problem that we have to solve and we will work hard and earnestly on it . ''
However , Financial Times ' Paris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may go even further and force the two countries out of the bloc entirely .
JUST IN : Von der Leyen pleads with Hungary and Poland as EU splits on budget

Poland and Hungary are 'playing poker game’ with EU says expert
Hungary and Poland sparked EU outrage this week after they vetoed the €1.8 trillion 2021-2027 budget and recovery fund. The two member-states vetoed the plan because access to the funds would be conditional upon respecting the rule of law. There is growing fury among EU leaders in Brussels at the "unacceptable" veto, amid claims Hungary and Poland could be stripped of their voting rights in the bloc.
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German Chancellor Angela Merkel refused to say whether one of the options being considered would be to threaten the two countries with taking away their voting rights. The German Chancellor responded: “For me the word ‘threaten’ is not the right word in this context. "We are obliged to try to find a way out. It’s a serious problem that we have to solve and we will work hard and earnestly on it." However, Financial Times' Paris bureau chief Victor Mallet suggested that Brussels may go even further and force the two countries out of the bloc entirely. JUST IN: Von der Leyen pleads with Hungary and Poland as EU splits on budget
Hungary and Poland sparked EU outrage this week after the veto vote
Orban has said a dispute over the EU’s coronavirus recovery fund and budget can be solved.
He told France 24: "If Hungary and Poland go against the rule of law, they won't be welcome for much longer. Nobody wants them to leave, they want them to change their ways." The European Union has been in frequent clashes with both Poland and Hungary because of national policies the bloc has denounced as undermining the core values of the bloc. Mr Mallet suggested that there could be a climbdown from Hungary and Poland by the next EU summit on December 10th. He also suggested that the Poland and Hungary gameplan was to "block up the EU budget for a year, because they can wait that long, and that would put pressure on southern European countries, who can't wait that long".
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EU: Hungary and Poland 'must respect laws to stay' says expert
The European Union has been increasingly locking horns with both Poland and Hungary
The France 24 host questioned whether this was "an existential moment for the EU, not unlike Brexit". France 24's Philip Turle responded by saying: "The behaviour of Poland and Hungary is unacceptable to Brussels. "The EU does not want to lose those two countries but it's also not willing to put up with two countries laying down the law and demanding equal treatment as other countries, who are respecting EU law." DON'T MISS: Rees-Mogg shuts down SNP's independence dream by exposing Sturgeon [VIDEO]
Kate Middleton gives fans rare glimpse into family home with William [INSIGHT]
EU punishment plot: Brussels to humiliate UK over extension [ANALYSIS]
Hungary and Poland could be stripped of their voting rights in the bloc
Mallet suggested that there could be a climbdown from Hungary and Poland at the next EU summit


thedailyexpress--2020-11-21--Rishi Sunak's TAX GRAB: Chancellor needs to find £1,000 for every adult in the UK

Meanwhile , Mr Sunak is poised to target pensions tax relief for high earners in order to balance the books as the economic cost of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic mounts in a move which could save the Government £4billion annually - with Tory MP John Redwood warning him against any attempt to `` tax his way into prosperity '' .
An analysis by the Resolution Foundation has suggested the UK 's economy is likely to shrink dramatically as a result of the pandemic , with the impact likely to be felt for at least five years .
Chief executive Torsten @ @ @ @ @ @ @ set to deliver his Spending Review against a brutal economic outlook .
`` Far from being a V-shaped crisis , the economic scars from Covid will be with us at least until the middle of the decade , with the economy set to be permanently smaller by £1,000 per adult .
`` With public spending likely to reach 60 per cent of GDP , the state has grown this year to levels never seen outside of wars .
`` The immediate question the Chancellor will be answering is how much of that extra @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not least to pay for ongoing NHS costs and the vaccine roll-out . ''
Pensions tax relief means some of the money which would otherwise have gone to the Government as tax goes towards an individual 's pension instead .
People on higher incomes currently enjoy tax relief on their pension tax contributions of 40 percent , compared with basic rate tax payers , for whom the rate is 20 percent .
One source suggested Mr Sunak was `` very attracted '' to the idea of a flat rate of 25 percent , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The insider told The Times : `` It 's a matter of fairness for him . ''
A separate Government source suggested a shake-up of tax relief would likely necessitate a radical change of HMRC systems , and could take three years to put into practice .
JUST IN : Boris Johnson 's WhatsApps LEAKED - PM tells MPs to protect Priti Patel '' But the chancellor shouldn ’ t underestimate the complexity of delivering such a reform . ''
Mr Sunak will give a strong indication of his plans in his spending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is also expected to signal his intention for future tax rises .
Increases will then be announced in March - although they could be delayed if the economy subsequently plunges back into recession , according to Treasury sources .
However , he is somewhat boxed in by Prime Minister Boris Johnson 's opposition to rises in income tax , VAT or national insurance .
Mr Redwood tweeted : `` You can not tax your way into prosperity .
`` Let ’ s have a positive economic plan for recovery next week based on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more of what they earn to spend as they wish .
We need more confidence not punishment . ''
On Wednesday Mr Sunak is expected to announce an ambitious programme of infrastructure investment , including £1.6 billion to tackle potholes and traffic congestion .

Rishi Sunak outlines how government uses money from taxes
The Chancellor is set to deliver his Spending Review against a brutal economic outlook Torsten Bell
Meanwhile, Mr Sunak is poised to target pensions tax relief for high earners in order to balance the books as the economic cost of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic mounts in a move which could save the Government £4billion annually - with Tory MP John Redwood warning him against any attempt to "tax his way into prosperity". An analysis by the Resolution Foundation has suggested the UK's economy is likely to shrink dramatically as a result of the pandemic, with the impact likely to be felt for at least five years. Chief executive Torsten Bell said: "The Chancellor is set to deliver his Spending Review against a brutal economic outlook.
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"Far from being a V-shaped crisis, the economic scars from Covid will be with us at least until the middle of the decade, with the economy set to be permanently smaller by £1,000 per adult. "With public spending likely to reach 60 per cent of GDP, the state has grown this year to levels never seen outside of wars. "The immediate question the Chancellor will be answering is how much of that extra spending will continue into next year, not least to pay for ongoing NHS costs and the vaccine roll-out." Pensions tax relief means some of the money which would otherwise have gone to the Government as tax goes towards an individual's pension instead.
Rishi Sunak has been warned against trying to "tax his way to prosperity"
Boris Johnson, who is currently self-isolating, speaks via videolink during PM's questions
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People on higher incomes currently enjoy tax relief on their pension tax contributions of 40 percent, compared with basic rate tax payers, for whom the rate is 20 percent. One source suggested Mr Sunak was "very attracted" to the idea of a flat rate of 25 percent, a significant reduction for top earners. The insider told The Times: "It's a matter of fairness for him." A separate Government source suggested a shake-up of tax relief would likely necessitate a radical change of HMRC systems, and could take three years to put into practice. JUST IN: Boris Johnson's WhatsApps LEAKED - PM tells MPs to protect Priti Patel
Tory MP John Redwood
Chancellor Rishi Sunak
John Redwood's tweet
"But the chancellor shouldn’t underestimate the complexity of delivering such a reform." Mr Sunak will give a strong indication of his plans in his spending review on Wednesday, in which he is also expected to signal his intention for future tax rises. Increases will then be announced in March - although they could be delayed if the economy subsequently plunges back into recession, according to Treasury sources. However, he is somewhat boxed in by Prime Minister Boris Johnson's opposition to rises in income tax, VAT or national insurance.
Coronavirus map live
Mr Redwood tweeted: "You cannot tax your way into prosperity. "Let’s have a positive economic plan for recovery next week based on backing enterprise. "Let people keep more of what they earn to spend as they wish. We need more confidence not punishment." On Wednesday Mr Sunak is expected to announce an ambitious programme of infrastructure investment, including £1.6 billion to tackle potholes and traffic congestion.
Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak leave Number 10 earlier this year


thedailyexpress--2020-11-21--Rees-Mogg shuts down SNP's independence dream by exposing Sturgeon's 'record of failures'

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Jacob Rees-Mogg shut down an SNP MP 's demand for independence by exposing Nicola Sturgeon 's `` tragic record of failures '' in power .
Mr Rees-Mogg listed off the SNP 's failures in power , including on education , policing , the NHS and the economy , in a scathing rebuke .
The remarks came in response to Tommy Sheppard , an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to clarify the Prime Minister 's position on devolution .
Mr Sheppard said : `` Does the leader agree with the Prime Minister that devolution north of the border has been a disaster and that it was Tony Blair 's biggest mistake ?
`` Does he understand the insult this is to the Scottish public ?
`` The Prime Minister may claim that he is referring to the SNP Government , but that government only exists because the people of Scotland have voted for it - not once , not twice , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scottish electorate will vote again .
Now that the Prime Minister 's contempt for devolution is clear , a great many will realise that the only way to protect the limited powers we have is to grasp the political power and capacity that comes with independence . ''
JUST IN : Boris exposed 'conspiracy of silence ' on devolution 'false prosperity '

Jacob Rees-Mogg says SNP has ‘tragic record of failure’
Jacob Rees-Mogg shut down an SNP MP's demand for independence by exposing Nicola Sturgeon's "tragic record of failures" in power. Mr Rees-Mogg listed off the SNP's failures in power, including on education, policing, the NHS and the economy, in a scathing rebuke. The remarks came in response to Tommy Sheppard, an SNP MP, who asked Mr Rees-Mogg to clarify the Prime Minister's position on devolution.
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Mr Sheppard said: "Does the leader agree with the Prime Minister that devolution north of the border has been a disaster and that it was Tony Blair's biggest mistake? "Does he understand the insult this is to the Scottish public? "The Prime Minister may claim that he is referring to the SNP Government, but that government only exists because the people of Scotland have voted for it - not once, not twice, but three times. "In May the Scottish electorate will vote again. Now that the Prime Minister's contempt for devolution is clear, a great many will realise that the only way to protect the limited powers we have is to grasp the political power and capacity that comes with independence." JUST IN: Boris exposed 'conspiracy of silence' on devolution 'false prosperity'
Jacob Rees-Mogg shut down an SNP MP's demand for independence by exposing Nicola Sturgeon
Rees-Mogg swiftly fired back by calling out SNP’s time in Government as 'a tragic record of failure'
Mr Rees-Mogg swiftly fired back by calling SNP’s time in Government as “a tragic record of failure”. He said that schools, the economy, policing, and the NHS had all suffered under Nicola Sturgeon. He said: "As regards to what the Prime Minister said about devolution, let's look at the record of the SNP, because it is a tragic record of failures. "Schools - once the pride of Scotland - has gone down under the SNP's reign. They have fallen to 15th in reading, from 6th in 2000.
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Nicola Sturgeon: ‘Believe me’ COVID restrictions are ‘essential’
Rees-Mogg said that schools, the economy, policing, and the NHS had all suffered under Nicola Sturgeon
Rees-Mogg listed off the SNP's failures in power, including on education, policing, the NHS and the economy, in a scathing rebuke


thedailyexpress--2020-11-21--Brexit deal to be agreed in nine days! UK legislation being fast tracked – Whitehall leak

Express.co.uk understands draft UK relationship legislation could be debated in the House of Commons within a week as talks on a post-Brexit trade deal have made better progress in recent days .
Ursula von der Leyen , President of the EU Commission said there were still `` quite some metres to the finish '' but that there had been `` more movement '' on important issues .
Weeks of talks hinted some movement on key issues including state aid rules , governance arrangements and fisheries with Mrs von der Leyen stressing she was encouraged by the latest round of meetings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were temporarily suspended on Thursday after a member of Michel Barnier 's EU negotiating team tested positive for COVID-19 .
Boris Johnson has expressed the desire to lay down an agreement “ as soon as possible ” with draft legal texts up to 95 percent complete on a trade deal .
Whitehall officials close to the negotiations told Express.co.uk the UK Government were keen to get a deal secured by November 30th , St Andrews Day .
One said : “ It ’ s all hands on deck now , we ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have draft legislation ready for debate very soon.
” They stressed the importance of securing a deal saying : “ It ’ s essential we secure one sooner rather than later as time is running out.
” Senator Ian Gorst , Jersey ’ s External Relations Minister hinted UK officials had made some progress on “ landing zones ” for fisheries after conservations he had .
Mr Gorst told the States of Jersey Brexit Committee : “ I have felt I suppose for the last number of days that the UK was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
READ MORE : Von der Leyen declares new 'movement ' in Brexit trade talks “ There might be what they would call a landing zone for fishing for the UK around a continuity arrangement for between 3 and 5 years .
“ Therefore that leaves the most controversial area really being the level playing field area .
“ But with parliamentarians that I have spoken to this week , so I am not just talking about Ministers being optimistic , but parliamentarians who sit on select committees across the Houses of Parliament @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than I have known them in a while.
” However , the EU remained more cautious with demands from some EU countries including France who made clear there might not be enough time to examine the document being drawn up .
DO N'T MISS : Britain 'wo n't give up sovereignty ' to secure Brexit deal [ LATEST ] Brexit deal closer but EU stubbornness on fish risks derailing talks [ INSIGHT ] EU chiefs block Brexit 'mini deals ' as Boris refuses to cave [ REVEAL ]

Brexit deal ‘could be rushed through’ says political insider
Express.co.uk understands draft UK relationship legislation could be debated in the House of Commons within a week as talks on a post-Brexit trade deal have made better progress in recent days. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the EU Commission said there were still "quite some metres to the finish" but that there had been "more movement" on important issues.
Trending
Weeks of talks hinted some movement on key issues including state aid rules, governance arrangements and fisheries with Mrs von der Leyen stressing she was encouraged by the latest round of meetings. It comes after talks face-to-face negotiations were temporarily suspended on Thursday after a member of Michel Barnier's EU negotiating team tested positive for COVID-19. Boris Johnson has expressed the desire to lay down an agreement “as soon as possible” with draft legal texts up to 95 percent complete on a trade deal. Whitehall officials close to the negotiations told Express.co.uk the UK Government were keen to get a deal secured by November 30th, St Andrews Day.
A Brexit deal could be reached by the end of the month
Timeline of 2020 talks
One said: “It’s all hands on deck now, we’re keen to secure a deal and hope to have draft legislation ready for debate very soon.” They stressed the importance of securing a deal saying: “It’s essential we secure one sooner rather than later as time is running out.” Senator Ian Gorst, Jersey’s External Relations Minister hinted UK officials had made some progress on “landing zones” for fisheries after conservations he had. Mr Gorst told the States of Jersey Brexit Committee: “I have felt I suppose for the last number of days that the UK was moving towards the possibility of a deal. READ MORE: Von der Leyen declares new 'movement' in Brexit trade talks
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Boris Johnson is hoping for a deal as soon as possible
Outline of the current talks