thedailyexpress--2020-08-25--Brexit POLL: As no deal looms, has Boris Johnson negotiated better than Theresa May? VOTE

Express.co.uk readers can vote in our poll on who has negotiated better out of Mr Johnson and Mrs May .
And let us know more about what you think in the comments section .
Mrs May became prime minister in 2016 after David Cameron stood down in the wake of the Brexit referendum which saw the country vote to leave the EU by 52 percent to 48 percent .
Her chief Brexit negotiator Olly Robbins led talks for the UK side with EU counterpart Michel Barnier .
But Mrs May ’ s Brexit deal was rejected by MPs three times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 230 votes in a historic defeat .
In March 2019 , Mrs May ’ s agreement was rejected once again by 149 votes .
And later that month the Withdrawal Agreement was voted down for a third time .
Mr Johnson took over from Mrs May in July 2019 and he went on to strike his Brexit deal with the EU three months later in October .
But much of Mr Johnson ’ s deal was the same as Mrs May ’ s , with some changes on the Irish border .
READ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to force Boris Johnson to ditch fishing rights The UK finally unshackled itself from the EU this year on January 31 after Brexit was originally meant to happen on March 29 2019 .
Britain is in a transition period with Brussels until the end of the year while the two sides attempt to negotiate a post-Brexit trade deal .
However little progress has been made despite the seventh round taking place last week .
DO N'T MISS EU SPLINTERS : Shock poll reveals EU nations support for leaving bloc [ POLL ] Boris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – Brexit will be on UK 's terms [ INSIGHT ] Do these tiresome anti-Brexiteers ever get fed up says STEPHEN POLLARD [ COMMENT ] Mr Barnier warned that reaching a deal is currently looking “ unlikely ” .
The Prime Minister ’ s chief negotiator David Frost said an agreement is still possible .
But he criticised the EU for frustrating talks by trying to force the UK to sign up to the bloc 's state aid and fisheries rules before allowing negotiations to move on .
In a statement , Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still insisting not only that we must accept continuity with EU state aid and fisheries policy , but also that this must be agreed before any further substantive work can be done in any other area of the negotiation , including on legal texts .
`` This makes it unnecessarily difficult to make progress .
“ There are other significant areas which remain to be resolved and , even where there is a broad understanding between negotiators , there is a lot of detail to work through .
“ Time is short for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a think tank has insisted Mr Johnson is just as much to blame for the impasse .

Brexit: Michel Barnier ‘concerned’ after negotiations with UK
THIS POLL HAS NOW CLOSED CLICK HERE FOR RESULTS Express.co.uk readers can vote in our poll on who has negotiated better out of Mr Johnson and Mrs May. And let us know more about what you think in the comments section.
Mrs May became prime minister in 2016 after David Cameron stood down in the wake of the Brexit referendum which saw the country vote to leave the EU by 52 percent to 48 percent. Her chief Brexit negotiator Olly Robbins led talks for the UK side with EU counterpart Michel Barnier. But Mrs May’s Brexit deal was rejected by MPs three times. In January 2019 it lost by 230 votes in a historic defeat.
Do you think Boris Johnson has done a better job than Theresa May in negotiations with the EU?
Mrs May’s Brexit deal was rejected by MPs three times
In March 2019, Mrs May’s agreement was rejected once again by 149 votes. And later that month the Withdrawal Agreement was voted down for a third time. Mr Johnson took over from Mrs May in July 2019 and he went on to strike his Brexit deal with the EU three months later in October. But much of Mr Johnson’s deal was the same as Mrs May’s, with some changes on the Irish border. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: EU plot to force Boris Johnson to ditch fishing rights
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Little progress has been made in post-Brexit trade talks led by David Frost on the UK side and his EU counterpart Michel Barnier
Mr Barnier warned that reaching a deal is currently looking “unlikely”. The Prime Minister’s chief negotiator David Frost said an agreement is still possible. But he criticised the EU for frustrating talks by trying to force the UK to sign up to the bloc's state aid and fisheries rules before allowing negotiations to move on. In a statement, Mr Frost said: "The EU is still insisting not only that we must accept continuity with EU state aid and fisheries policy, but also that this must be agreed before any further substantive work can be done in any other area of the negotiation, including on legal texts.
Britain is in a transition period with Brussels until the end of the year while the two sides attempt to negotiate a post-Brexit trade deal
"This makes it unnecessarily difficult to make progress. “There are other significant areas which remain to be resolved and, even where there is a broad understanding between negotiators, there is a lot of detail to work through. “Time is short for both sides." It comes as a think tank has insisted Mr Johnson is just as much to blame for the impasse.
Five key moments that led to Brexit
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thedailyexpress--2020-08-25--Get ready for no deal Brexit! Barnier to pull out of face to face Frost meeting this week

The European Union ’ s chief negotiator could instead opt for a phone call with British counterpart David Frost .
Brussels sources said it was a “ big if ” whether the Frenchman would make the journey to Westminster because of last week ’ s acrimonious round of negotiations .
The pair had previously agreed to two informal sessions ahead of the next official talks on September 7 .
One source said : “ We aren ’ t expecting anything high-profile but there will be contact between the two sides.
” Talks between the UK and EU broke up on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ securing a deal .
Mr Barnier said the process had gone “ backwards ” and claimed Prime Minister Boris Johnson had reneged on his pledge to put a “ tiger in the tank ” and accelerate talks .
On Friday , he said : “ It felt as if we were going backwards rather than forwards .
“ Today , at this stage , an agreement between the UK and EU seems unlikely .
“ I simply do not understand why we are wasting valuable time . ''
Mr Barnier added : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move on swiftly forward this week will have been disappointed .
“ Unfortunately , I too have been frankly disappointed as well , I must say .
“ Prime minister Boris Johnson told us in June that he wished to speed up .
This week , once again , as in the July round , the British negotiators have not shown any real willingness to move forward.
” MUST READ : Do these tiresome anti-Brexiteers ever get fed up says STEPHEN POLLARD Mr Frost suggested it was Brussels that had made no deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Prime Minister ’ s Brexit envoy said Mr Barnier ’ s refusal drop demands for “ continuity ” on fishing rights and state aid rules on subsidies and tax breaks .
“ The EU is still insisting not only that we must accept continuity with EU state-aid and fisheries policy , but also that this must be agreed before any further substantive work can be done in any other area of the negotiation , including on legal texts , ” Mr Frost said .
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Brexit: Michel Barnier ‘concerned’ after negotiations with UK
The European Union’s chief negotiator could instead opt for a phone call with British counterpart David Frost. Brussels sources said it was a “big if” whether the Frenchman would make the journey to Westminster because of last week’s acrimonious round of negotiations. The pair had previously agreed to two informal sessions ahead of the next official talks on September 7.
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One source said: “We aren’t expecting anything high-profile but there will be contact between the two sides.” A European Commission spokesman said: “The EU is engaging constructively and in good faith. "We are working hard with the UK to overcome the significant divergences that remain between us. “There will be contact between negotiators over the next fortnight. The next round of negotiations will take place on the week of September 7. Talks between the UK and EU broke up on Friday without any significant progress made towards securing a deal. Mr Barnier said the process had gone “backwards” and claimed Prime Minister Boris Johnson had reneged on his pledge to put a “tiger in the tank” and accelerate talks.
Michel Barnier could cancel travel plans to London
Michel Barnier is the EU's chief Brexit negotiator
On Friday, he said: “It felt as if we were going backwards rather than forwards. “Today, at this stage, an agreement between the UK and EU seems unlikely. “I simply do not understand why we are wasting valuable time."
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David Frost and Michel Barnier during last week's round of trade talks
Mr Barnier added: “Those who were hoping for negotiations to move on swiftly forward this week will have been disappointed. “Unfortunately, I too have been frankly disappointed as well, I must say. “Prime minister Boris Johnson told us in June that he wished to speed up. This week, once again, as in the July round, the British negotiators have not shown any real willingness to move forward.” MUST READ: Do these tiresome anti-Brexiteers ever get fed up says STEPHEN POLLARD
Michel Barnier and David Frost still have plans to hold talks this week
Mr Frost suggested it was Brussels that had made no deal more likely with its hardline negotiating tactics. The Prime Minister’s Brexit envoy said Mr Barnier’s refusal drop demands for “continuity” on fishing rights and state aid rules on subsidies and tax breaks. “The EU is still insisting not only that we must accept continuity with EU state-aid and fisheries policy, but also that this must be agreed before any further substantive work can be done in any other area of the negotiation, including on legal texts,” Mr Frost said. DON'T MISS
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thedailyexpress--2020-08-25--UK will NOT dance to EU's tune! Frost refuses to show Brexit plans 'it's OUR timetable'

Brussels officials have urged David Frost to reveal proposals for the UK ’ s state aid regime after the country transitions from European Union rules at the end of the year .
Mr Barnier , the EU ’ s chief Brexit negotiator , has been forced to abandon plans to keep Britain tied to the bloc 's system for governing tax breaks and state subsidies for private firms .
But instead the Frenchman has refused to discuss any potential compromises until Mr Frost hands over the UK ’ s post-Brexit plans .
British negotiators , however , have resisted dancing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told Mr Barnier he will not dictate any timetables .
Downing Street is understood to be considering the publication of its subsidies policy in the autumn .
A source said : “ It will be on our timetable , not on one that ’ s dictated to by the negotiations with Brussels.
” Mr Frost doesn ’ t believe it is necessary for his EU counterpart to accept Britain ’ s future state aid system .
Instead , Boris Johnson ’ s Brexit envoy wants to find an agreement around a dispute settlement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Meanwhile the EU is more focused on reaching a “ broad agreement ” for how subsidies could work in the future .
The bloc has resisted allowing progress in the negotiations until the row over state aid is resolved .
Last week Mr Barnier refused to discuss a draft free-trade agreement put forward by British officials .
And now he is said to be pessimistic at the chances of both sides reaching a deal by the end of the year .
After a briefing by Mr Barnier , a Brussels insider said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ encouraging , there are no indications things are moving forward in even the most crucial areas .
MUST READ : Brexit LIVE : EU plot to force Boris Johnson to ditch fishing rights

Brexit: Boris Johnson's strategy praised by former Tory adviser
Brussels officials have urged David Frost to reveal proposals for the UK’s state aid regime after the country transitions from European Union rules at the end of the year. Mr Barnier, the EU’s chief Brexit negotiator, has been forced to abandon plans to keep Britain tied to the bloc's system for governing tax breaks and state subsidies for private firms. But instead the Frenchman has refused to discuss any potential compromises until Mr Frost hands over the UK’s post-Brexit plans.
Trending
British negotiators, however, have resisted dancing to the EU’s tune and told Mr Barnier he will not dictate any timetables. Downing Street is understood to be considering the publication of its subsidies policy in the autumn. A source said: “It will be on our timetable, not on one that’s dictated to by the negotiations with Brussels.” Mr Frost doesn’t believe it is necessary for his EU counterpart to accept Britain’s future state aid system.
Boris Johnson won't publish post-Brexit plans just for EU trade deal
Prime Minister Boris Johnson
Instead, Boris Johnson’s Brexit envoy wants to find an agreement around a dispute settlement mechanism to mediate any future policy deviations. Meanwhile the EU is more focused on reaching a “broad agreement” for how subsidies could work in the future. The bloc has resisted allowing progress in the negotiations until the row over state aid is resolved.
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Michel Barnier is the EU's chief Brexit negotiator
Last week Mr Barnier refused to discuss a draft free-trade agreement put forward by British officials. And now he is said to be pessimistic at the chances of both sides reaching a deal by the end of the year. After a briefing by Mr Barnier, a Brussels insider said: “It wasn’t very encouraging, there are no indications things are moving forward in even the most crucial areas. MUST READ: Brexit LIVE: EU plot to force Boris Johnson to ditch fishing rights
Brexit negotiations between David Frost and Michel Barnier could be downgraded this week
Brexit: Leaked documents puts pressure on the EU says expert


thedailyexpress--2020-08-25--Brexit chaos: Barnier issues blistering demand for EU states to be ‘cold-blooded’ with UK

Former Brexit Secretary David Davis has said that the last three weeks of discussions “ will matter more than the first three years ” .
Mr Barnier is reportedly ready for a bust-up next month and is concerned there could be a break-down in trade negotiations .
According to the Sun newspaper , Mr Barnier also believes Downing Street could enter into a serious “ blame game ” over who is to blame for the slow development in trade deal discussions .
Last Friday , the EU and Britain last Friday blamed each other for the lack of progress after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Mr Barnier issued his warning at the end of the seventh round of trade talks .
This round included key issues such as fishing rights and competition rules .
Brexiteer Ben Habib said Michel Barnier is acting over-confident in the Brexit trade talks .
Former Brexit Party MEP Ben Habib recently said the UK needed to prove to the EU that it intends to leave the bloc without a trade deal .
Speaking to Michael Heaver on Westminster , Mr Habib claimed Michel Barnier was acting as if the EU had put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ READ MORE : Queen heartbreak : Royal forced to struggle with 'extreme sorrow' Mr Habib said : `` Michel Barnier is having a laugh at our expense .
`` I think he feels that he has got the UK on the same sort of backfoot that he had Theresa May on .
`` We have got to disabuse him on that .
`` Until we can convince the EU that we are serious about leaving without a deal they will keep messing us about .
DO N'T MISS : Queen 's cousin Lady @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] World War 3 : UK-China-US tensions a 'first ' in history sparks fears [ INSIGHT ] Coronavirus symptoms update : Warning symptom of COVID-19 [ UPDATES ] '' The best way to convince them is to just walk away . ''
He added : “ I suspect that Boris Johnson does n't believe in a no deal Brexit , for all of his championing and bravado .
`` You might recall that last year or so they said we would be out by the 31st of October with or without a deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think they believe in no deal .
`` Michael Gove who is in charge of no deal planning is on the record saying he does n't believe in no deal and that he believes it would be bad for the United Kingdom .

Michel Barnier: UK seeing ‘clear consequences of Brexit vote’
Former Brexit Secretary David Davis has said that the last three weeks of discussions “will matter more than the first three years”. Mr Barnier is reportedly ready for a bust-up next month and is concerned there could be a break-down in trade negotiations.
Trending
According to the Sun newspaper, Mr Barnier also believes Downing Street could enter into a serious “blame game” over who is to blame for the slow development in trade deal discussions.
Last Friday, the EU and Britain last Friday blamed each other for the lack of progress after the latest round of post-Brexit trade discussions.
The EU said a deal looked unlikely.
Mr Barnier issued his warning at the end of the seventh round of trade talks.
Brexit warning: Michel Barnier urges EU states to be ‘cold-blooded’ with UK
This round included key issues such as fishing rights and competition rules.
Brexiteer Ben Habib said Michel Barnier is acting over-confident in the Brexit trade talks.
Former Brexit Party MEP Ben Habib recently said the UK needed to prove to the EU that it intends to leave the bloc without a trade deal.
Speaking to Michael Heaver on Westminster, Mr Habib claimed Michel Barnier was acting as if the EU had put the UK on the back foot. READ MORE: Queen heartbreak: Royal forced to struggle with 'extreme sorrow'
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Mr Habib said: "Michel Barnier is having a laugh at our expense.
"I think he feels that he has got the UK on the same sort of backfoot that he had Theresa May on.
"We have got to disabuse him on that.
"Until we can convince the EU that we are serious about leaving without a deal they will keep messing us about. DON'T MISS:
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Brexit timeline
"The best way to convince them is to just walk away."
He added: “I suspect that Boris Johnson doesn't believe in a no deal Brexit, for all of his championing and bravado.
"You might recall that last year or so they said we would be out by the 31st of October with or without a deal.
"But actually I don't think they believe in no deal.
"Michael Gove who is in charge of no deal planning is on the record saying he doesn't believe in no deal and that he believes it would be bad for the United Kingdom.
Michel Barnier has urged European Union states to be 'cold-blooded' with the UK


thedailyexpress--2020-08-25--SNP plot to create Scottish army by CHARGING UK for Trident exposed

The group has said allowing the UK to retain nuclear submarines in Scotland after independence could bring in enough revenue to fund a new Scottish Defence Force ( SDF ) , a suggestion quickly dismissed by Westminster .
The Scottish National Party Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament published a new paper which claimed “ negotiating cards ” could be played by both sides .
The campaign group , which helps influence SNP policy , aims to achieve a nuclear-weapon-free independent Scotland and is a forum for party members who oppose nuclear weapons .
In the paper , which has just been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Faslane naval base which is home to the UK trident project could turn into a British “ colonial possession ” in an independent Scotland .
It suggests that Westminster pay a rental fee to an independent Scottish government for the two bases , RNAD Coulport and HMNB Clyde , to allow a new Scottish Defence Force to be funded .
Bill Ramsay , committee convenor wrote in the paper : “ Contingency planning is a key element , indeed the bread and butter work , of all professional staff officers .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in planning for contingencies of all types whether likely contingencies or even sometimes the very unlikely , though less credible contingencies are overtaken invariably for training purposes .
“ At the heart of such a contingency plan will be an attempt to rent these two facilities from the Scottish Government .
“ Had the first independence referendum been a success such an offer would probably have emerged .
“ In 'Scotland ’ s Future ' the estimated cost of a future Scottish Defence Force was around £2.5 billion . ''
READ MORE : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care home chaos The SNP has a long-standing policy to remove nuclear weapons in an independent Scotland but the campaign said alternatives to this position exist .
The paper said a previous £2.5billion cost of a Scottish Navy , Army and Air Force was too high suggesting the cost could be less than half that .
Mr Ramsay added in the paper : “ Under these circumstances , the annual rental offer likely to be put forward by the remaining UK ( to rent the naval base and the naval armaments depot at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the annual budget of the SDF .
“ Nuclear multilateralists will argue that ‘ we ’ have the UK ‘ over a barrel ’ .
DO N'T MISS : Ex-SNP deputy leader admits 'grave concerns ' about hate crime bill [ REVEAL ] New alliance emerging to challenge Boris Johnson 's power [ INSIGHT ] Gove launches secret plot to work with Labour in bid to eradicate indy [ LATEST ] “ That we should take the money for a short time , for a longer time and , for others , for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weapons.
” The Committee suggests that the “ SNP needs to develop a policy , this side of the 2021 election so that when the SNP seek a mandate for an independence referendum that SNP policy makes it clear the SNP will not negotiate a lease on Faslane and Coulport.
” Mr Ramsay continued in the paper that Scotland : could “ confidently assume therefore that the UK would turn to a more familiar and indeed tried and tested strategy to retain the bases using diplomacy.
” “ The UK aim would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ merely become new additions to the many overseas military bases that the United Kingdom currently have , ” it added .
The Committee is set to submit a motion which is expected to be debated at the Scottish National Party this October .
It will ask for the removal of the Trident missile system and Vanguard-class subs within three years of a “ yes ” vote .
The motion said : “ Conference reaffirms its policy , the Roadmap for Trident Removal , as accepted in 2018 .
`` The conference , therefore @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three calendar years after the declaration of the result of a successful Scottish independence referendum for the removal of the Trident missile system and their launch platform , the Vanguard-class submarines , as a first step .
”

Trident: Carole Malone slams Sturgeon's nuclear plans
The group has said allowing the UK to retain nuclear submarines in Scotland after independence could bring in enough revenue to fund a new Scottish Defence Force (SDF), a suggestion quickly dismissed by Westminster. The Scottish National Party Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament published a new paper which claimed “negotiating cards” could be played by both sides.
Trending
The campaign group, which helps influence SNP policy, aims to achieve a nuclear-weapon-free independent Scotland and is a forum for party members who oppose nuclear weapons. In the paper, which has just been released by the group, they say the Faslane naval base which is home to the UK trident project could turn into a British “colonial possession” in an independent Scotland. It suggests that Westminster pay a rental fee to an independent Scottish government for the two bases, RNAD Coulport and HMNB Clyde, to allow a new Scottish Defence Force to be funded. Bill Ramsay, committee convenor wrote in the paper: “Contingency planning is a key element, indeed the bread and butter work, of all professional staff officers.
Scotland could have it's own defence force, a paper has suggested
The campaign group submitted a policy paper
“In peacetime military staff are involved continually in planning for contingencies of all types whether likely contingencies or even sometimes the very unlikely, though less credible contingencies are overtaken invariably for training purposes. “At the heart of such a contingency plan will be an attempt to rent these two facilities from the Scottish Government. “Had the first independence referendum been a success such an offer would probably have emerged. “In 'Scotland’s Future' the estimated cost of a future Scottish Defence Force was around £2.5 billion." READ MORE: Health Secretary to STAND DOWN after Scottish care home chaos
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Trident could stay in Scotland under the plans
The SNP has a long-standing policy to remove nuclear weapons in an independent Scotland but the campaign said alternatives to this position exist. The paper said a previous £2.5billion cost of a Scottish Navy, Army and Air Force was too high suggesting the cost could be less than half that. Mr Ramsay added in the paper: “Under these circumstances, the annual rental offer likely to be put forward by the remaining UK (to rent the naval base and the naval armaments depot at Coulport) will be close to matching the annual budget of the SDF. “Nuclear multilateralists will argue that ‘we’ have the UK ‘over a barrel’. DON'T MISS:
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Trident is mainly based at HMNB Clyde
“That we should take the money for a short time, for a longer time and, for others, for as long as the UK has nuclear weapons.” The Committee suggests that the “SNP needs to develop a policy, this side of the 2021 election so that when the SNP seek a mandate for an independence referendum that SNP policy makes it clear the SNP will not negotiate a lease on Faslane and Coulport.” Mr Ramsay continued in the paper that Scotland: could “confidently assume therefore that the UK would turn to a more familiar and indeed tried and tested strategy to retain the bases using diplomacy.” “The UK aim would be to ensure HMNB Clyde and RNAD Coulport merely become new additions to the many overseas military bases that the United Kingdom currently have,” it added.
View of Coulport, Argyll and Bute
The Committee is set to submit a motion which is expected to be debated at the Scottish National Party this October. It will ask for the removal of the Trident missile system and Vanguard-class subs within three years of a “yes” vote. The motion said: “Conference reaffirms its policy, the Roadmap for Trident Removal, as accepted in 2018. "The conference, therefore, sets SNP policy a timescale of three calendar years after the declaration of the result of a successful Scottish independence referendum for the removal of the Trident missile system and their launch platform, the Vanguard-class submarines, as a first step.”
Could a Scottish Defence Force be formed


thedailyexpress--2020-08-25--Lib Dem leadership candidates: Who are Ed Davey and Layla Moran? Meet the candidates

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Lib Dem leadership candidates debated on the BBC yesterday , as they outlined what the position meant to them at the twilight of the campaign .
Sir Ed Davey and Layla Moran spoke about the coronavirus pandemic , the path their party and criticised the Government on the recent A-level fiasco .
The contest draws to a close in just two days and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of an established politician or relatively fresh-faced minister .
Those living under the coalition Government in the 2010s will have seen Mansfield-born Sir Ed Davey appear regularly alongside Nick Clegg .
He is a career politician who entered the House of Commons in 1997 as MP for Surbiton .
Then 31 , he subsequently worked to oppose the total smoking ban in the UK , and introduced legislation to end the prohibition of `` promotion of homosexuality '' .
READ MORE : Liberal Democrats MOCKED as Alok Sharma tells Remainers to 'move on @ @

Lib Dems: Ed Davey and Layla Moran grilled on 'rejoining' EU
Lib Dem leadership candidates debated on the BBC yesterday, as they outlined what the position meant to them at the twilight of the campaign. Sir Ed Davey and Layla Moran spoke about the coronavirus pandemic, the path their party and criticised the Government on the recent A-level fiasco. The contest draws to a close in just two days and will see the party in the hands of an established politician or relatively fresh-faced minister.
Trending
Who is Sir Ed Davey? Those living under the coalition Government in the 2010s will have seen Mansfield-born Sir Ed Davey appear regularly alongside Nick Clegg. He is a career politician who entered the House of Commons in 1997 as MP for Surbiton. Then 31, he subsequently worked to oppose the total smoking ban in the UK, and introduced legislation to end the prohibition of "promotion of homosexuality". READ MORE: Liberal Democrats MOCKED as Alok Sharma tells Remainers to 'move on!'
Lib Dem leadership candidates: Who are Ed Davey and Layla Moran? Meet the candidates
Lib Dem leadership candidates: Candidates are vying to replace Jo Swinson
READ MORE Brexit news: Brexiteer shuts down Lib Dem leader over tweet Paddy Ashdown gave him a position as Lib Dem spokesman for Treasury affairs on his election and chaired several of the party's committees. Following the 2010 election which put the Liberal Democrats in Government alongside the Tories, he became Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. He graduated to Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change in 2012, and in this role pushed for more green energy use in the UK. In the 2015 general election, he lost his seat to Conservative candidate James Berry, but regained it again in 2017, and has co-led the party with Baroness Sal Brinton since Jo Swinson stepped down in 2019.
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Lib Dem leadership candidates: Sir Ed Davey started his political career in 1997
Lib Dem leadership candidates: Layla Moran is a relatively fresh-faced MP
READ MORE Meghan Markle and Prince Harry told to 'cut the c**p' by former MP She has played on her relatively little political experience during the election cycle and said voter trust is dwindling. Speaking to Politics Home, she said: “I represent that fresh start. "I wasn't a part of when that decline started, which was during Coalition. “I am now looking forward to how we can reconnect with voters, I think we've had a really clear message from voters over the last 10 years about them not thinking that we're on their side, them not thinking that we're competent, they don't trust us."


thedailyexpress--2020-08-25--Brexit LIVE: EU plot to force Boris Johnson to choose fishing rights OR freedom from rules

Mr Rahman claimed the prospect of a `` no deal '' , with the risk of delays at the border and food shortages would be a huge concern for Mr Johnson 's Government , increasing pressure on him to compromise .
After the latest round of talks between Mr Barnier and UK negotiator David Frost ended in stalemate on Friday , demands for Britain to walk away are growing louder .
Speaking yesterday , Robert Oulds , director-general of the Bruges Group , told Express.co.uk : `` With what the EU is demanding , the price is just too high @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being reasonable and we need to walk away and reject their demands , and Boris Johnson needs to do that .
`` Britain is now an independent country and we do not have to do what they demand of us any longer . ''
With last week 's talks ending in deadlock , Express.co.uk 's Brussels corrspondent Joe Barnes has learned Michel Barnier may not even bother to travel to London next week to talk to opposite number David Frost , but may instead opt for a phone call .
The EU has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shock poll revealed growing support for leaving the Brussels bloc among its ‘ Big Four ’ .
The Union is under pressure after results revealed member states would consider exiting the bloc if Brexit proved to be a success .
Nearly half of Italians quizzed said they would consider leaving the EU if the UK and its economy were in a “ good state ” in five years after its exit .
Forty-five percent of Italian citizens said they agreed or strongly agreed with ‘ Italexit ’ when they were asked “ I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country leaving the EU if the UK and its economy are in a good state in five years , agree or disagree ?
” Meanwhile , the Redfield and Wilton Strategies poll , commissioned by Euronews , found 38 percent of French people would consider unshackling itself from the bloc in the event of a successful Brexit .
While Spain saw 37 percent of its citizens in favour of leaving .
Germany , the EU ’ s largest economy , was the least likely to support leaving the bloc , with just 30 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The head of the European Commission expects a full report from Phil Hogan on his attendance at a controversial golf dinner in Ireland , according to a spokeswoman .
Commission president Ursula von der Leyen also wants the EU Trade Commissioner to publish the timeline of his movements in Ireland over recent weeks .
Pressure has been building on Mr Hogan to step down from his EU role after he attended last week 's function with more than 80 people present .
Large social gatherings are discouraged in the country during the pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ politician with significant standing in Brussels who would be deeply involved in any deal with Britain after Brexit .
Sterling rose on Tuesday as the dollar slipped and investors shrugged off an unexpected drop in Britain 's monthly retail sales data and no-deal Brexit concerns .
The dollar fell after investors returned to riskier currencies as a successful phone call between top trade officials in the United States and China boosted positive sentiment .
Sterling was last up 0.4 percent at $ 1.3122 versus the greenback .
It was little changed at 90.195 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , an analyst at Nordea Markets said : `` It 's much more about general risk sentiment and I think that 's why sterling is doing well this morning .
`` We also have a weaker dollar that has to some extent helped sterling . ''
The British Ports Association has launched a new initiative looking at the viability of autonomous shipping - or crewless ships - for UK ports , including a call for evidence from interested parties .
BPA is creating a new Autonomous Shipping in Ports Network and yesterday opened @ @ @ @ @ @ @ maritime community on what ports should consider to prepare for receiving autonomous ships in the future .
The prospect of seeing autonomous ships in UK ports is definitely on the horizon but there will be much to do to prepare ourselves .
This includes the consideration for port and marine operations , regulatory frameworks , infrastructure and receptions facilities , land to vessel communications and vessel safety .
Richard Ballantyne , the Chief Executive of the British Ports Association , said : `` Although we are at the early stages , a lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ maritime community .
Many UK ports are now starting to ask what they should be considering as they develop their ports and recruit the next generation .
`` This will be an ongoing initiative for the BPA but initially we are inviting evidence from a cross section of maritime sector organisations .
This will be in relation to issues that they see specific in to ports and harbours moving forward into autonomous maritime operations .
`` It will also help us to support and participate in various government initiatives in the UK such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Maritime Skills Commission and other innovation , sustainability and infrastructure projects . ''
Brexit talks are on a knife-edge after it was revealed Michel Barnier may not even bother to travel to London next week to talk to opposite number David Frost .
Joe Barnes , Express.co.uk 's Brussels correspondent , tweeted : `` Informal Brexit talks between David Frost and Michel Barnier scheduled for this week could be downgraded to a phone call with the EU negotiator unsure whether to travel to London after serious doubt was cast over the possibility @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Andrew Neil sends clueless SNP supporters into frenzy – 'What will your currency be ? '
Andrew Neil has rubbished claims by Scottish independence supporters that their country could thrive with its own currency outside of the United Kingdom , telling them to `` do some research '' .
With the end of the transition period looming , The veteran TV presenter became embroiled in a debate which lasted days on Twitter on the issue of Scottish independence and Scotland rejoining the European Union .
Mr Neil was still debating with online @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He responded to an initial tweet put out by an independence campaigner on August 22 who claimed Boris Johnson 's Government were `` utterly bricking it over losing Scotland via Indyref2 '' .
9.40am update Brits abroad `` fearful '' of no deal , says analyst British ex-pats are becoming anxious at the prospect of a no-deal outcome at the end of the year , an analyst has said .
James Green , divisional manager of Europe with deVere Group , which claims to be the world 's largest independent financial advisory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ With just months to go until the end of the transition period , the risk of a no-deal Brexit is real and it ’ s rising .
`` Currently , there seems little hope of a deal getting done as both sides are showing no indications of altering their positions .
This saga is making Britons living across Europe increasingly financially fearful – and rightly so – as they could be disproportionately affected by the UK crashing out of the EU . ''
The EU 's negotiating team is yet to confirm their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - and even if it does happen , Michel Barnier may not go , it has been claimed .
A Brussels insider said the visit was far from certain to happen .
8.52am update : Danger of a ‘ Swiss Brexit ’ as critical referendum sparks panic in Brussels Switzerland could be about to follow in the footsteps of Britain and have their own “ Brexit moment ” as the Central European country holds a critical referendum on its relationship with the EU .
The Swiss will head to the polls on September @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country should abandon a deal between Switzerland , which has always resisted the temptation to join the EU , and the Brussels bloc guaranteeing free movement between the two .
The referendum to abolish free movement of EU citizens across Switzerland has been billed as Bern ’ s “ Brexit moment ” .
Such a decision would be a bitter blow to Brussels in the aftermath of the UK ’ s decision to leave the trade bloc .
8.38am update : EU is stalling progress with unrealistic demands - UK official The UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is being `` unrealistic '' in its demands with respect to a trade deal - with an official claiming it was the bloc which was stalling progress .
After suggestions from EU officials that the UK was likely to sacrifice fishing rights in a trade-off to ensure freedom from its rules and regulations , Brussels-based journalist Nick Gutteridge tweeted : `` British official hits back on this : 'The UK has consistently pushed for detailed textual discussions on the core elements of a trade agreement .
`` If the EU continues to stall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fish and subsidies , we will quickly run out of time . ''
8.15am update : Pound soars as investors relax over Brexit talks edging towards no deal The pound rose this morning amid sterling investors appearing to relax over the UK 's Brexit trade talks with the EU edging towards no deal .
The pound suffered badly against the dollar when coronavirus hit the global markets in March .
British Sterling 's highest total this year is now just above $ 1.31 .
This will be the time of the December 31 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ market and customs union .
8.05am update : Barnier rejects new UK plan to keep busy shipping routes open after Brexit European Union negotiators have rejected a British offer to prevent freight backlogs at busy ports after Brexit , according to Brussels sources .
UK officials tabled a new paper with plans to keep `` roll on , roll off '' ports on both sides of English Channel flowing as part of any future free-trade agreement with the bloc .
But Michel Barnier is said to have `` snubbed '' the proposal because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to an unwanted system .
A Brussels insider said : `` The plan was snubbed because it would have tied the EU into a system when flexibility will be needed over time . ''
7.57am update : Europe 's fishermen preparing for 'naval battle ' in no deal scenario With Brexit trade talks still deadlocked , a fisherman has claimed European nations could become embroiled in `` naval battles '' over fishing waters .
Stephane Pinto , fisherman and vice-president of the fisheries committee , said : `` If tomorrow there is no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , all the flotillas of Europe , the Belgians , the Dutch , and the French will all be in the same fishing zone .
`` And in terms of cohabitation that would be difficult .
I think there would be a naval battle . ''
This statement made by Mr Pinto in an interview with AFP echoed warnings made in a remarkable report .
7.50am update : Barnier issues blistering demand for EU states to be 'cold-blooded ' with UK Mr Barnier , the European Union 's chief negotiator , has also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cold-blooded '' with the UK as the Brexit trade deal deadline approaches .
Former Brexit Secretary David Davis has said that the last three weeks of discussions `` will matter more than the first three years '' .
Mr Barnier is reportedly ready for a bust-up next month and is concerned there could be a break-down in trade negotiations .
The Frenchman also believes Downing Street could enter into a serious `` blame game '' over who is to blame for the slow development in trade deal discussions .
7.45am update : EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fishing rights OR freedom from rules Boris Johnson may be forced to sacrifice the UK 's fishing rights in order to secure a Brexit deal which ensures the nation is not subject to EU rules and regulations after the end of the year , Michel Barnier 's negotiating team has told diplomats in Brussels .
Mr Barnier 's colleagues , speaking at an informal meet and greet attended by UK journalists that the UK 's `` clear strategy '' was to `` trade off '' fishing access in return for guaranteed freedom from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Such a move would infuriate Brexiteers , given control over British waters and withdrawal from the Common Fishing Policy has been central to Brexit .
Speaking yesterday , Eurasia Group analyst Mujtaba Rahman said a trade-off with respect to state aid and fishing rights was `` possible and remains likely , but will take time '' .

Brexit: Barnier claims EU position has ‘not changed since 2017’
Mr Barnier's colleagues, speaking at an informal meet and greet attended by UK journalists that the UK's "clear strategy" was to "trade off" fishing access in return for guaranteed freedom from EU rules at the last possible minute. Such a move would infuriate Brexiteers, given control over British waters and withdrawal from the Common Fishing Policy has been central to Brexit. Speaking yesterday, Eurasia Group analyst Mujtaba Rahman said a trade-off with respect to state aid and fishing rights was "possible and remains likely, but will take time". THIS LIVE BLOG IS NOW CLOSED
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Mr Rahman claimed the prospect of a "no deal", with the risk of delays at the border and food shortages would be a huge concern for Mr Johnson's Government, increasing pressure on him to compromise. After the latest round of talks between Mr Barnier and UK negotiator David Frost ended in stalemate on Friday, demands for Britain to walk away are growing louder. Speaking yesterday, Robert Oulds, director-general of the Bruges Group, told Express.co.uk: "With what the EU is demanding, the price is just too high. "The European Union is not being reasonable and we need to walk away and reject their demands, and Boris Johnson needs to do that. "Britain is now an independent country and we do not have to do what they demand of us any longer." With last week's talks ending in deadlock, Express.co.uk's Brussels corrspondent Joe Barnes has learned Michel Barnier may not even bother to travel to London next week to talk to opposite number David Frost, but may instead opt for a phone call. SCROLL DOWN FOR REGULAR UPDATES:
Michel Barnier's team are pushing Boris Johnson to sacrifice fishing rights, reporters have learned
4:45am update: EU releases second Action Programme funds for Cypriot aid The European Commission has adopted a second Annual Action Programme for aid to the Turkish Cypriot community worth a staggering €31.6 million. It comes after the Commission released €5 million in funds earlier this year. Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms, Elisa Ferreira, said: “Projects under the Aid Programme aim to improve infrastructure, support economic development, foster reconciliation, and bring Turkish Cypriots closer to the EU. “I am confident that they will contribute to efforts for a reunification of Cyprus, which is one of the main goals of our assistance.” 3:30am update: MEPs split on Belarus’ opposition leader’s remarks Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya appeared at Tuesday’s European Parliament committee to urge the EU to support Belarus’ “democratic revelation”, and added: “Belarus has woken up. We are not the opposition anymore. We are the majority now.” But MEPs were divided on her calls to assist protestors in Belarus, with some questioning whether Ms Tsikhanouskaya’s versions of events. Manu Pineda, a Spanish MEP for the United Left party, asked: “Are you prepared to ensure sanctions against your people because they didn't vote for you? "As president, are you looking for a bloodbath, as took place in Ukraine?” President of the EU Council, Charles Michel said: "Belarusians have taken to the streets with mass protests and strikes. “From ordinary families to students and factory workers. They deserve the democratic right to choose their leaders & shape their future." 2am update: Brexit BOOST: Boris Johnson hires former Australian PM as UK's 'epic' new trade envoy FORMER Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott has been hired by the Government to be one of Britain's most senior trade envoys, according to a shock report. According to The Sun, Mr Abbott will be appointed joint president of Britain’s Board of Trade, which is currently undergoing a relaunch. This means he will be tasked with negotiating with leaders around the world in a bid to secure new trade deals for the UK. He is reported to be one of a number of global “friends” of Britain who will assist the Government in this capacity.
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Brexit Live: Boris Johnson during his visit to Appledore Shipyard in Devon
11:05pm update: Germany warns Turkey they are ‘playing with fire’ over Mediterranean oil drilling Germany’s foreign minister has said tensions in the eastern Mediterranean between Greece and Turkey need to de-escalate, saying the dispute “could lead to a disaster”. Heiko Maas made the warning after a meeting with Greek foreign minister Nikos Dendias, where he discussed the oil dispute. He added: “The current situation in the eastern Mediterranean is ... playing with fire, and any spark -- however small -- could lead to a disaster.” Mr Maas also said Germany and the whole of the EU stood by Greece "in firm solidarity”, and called for immediate “signals of de-escalation and a readiness for dialogue” from Turkey. Greece and Turkey have put their militaries on high alert and have sent warships to shadow each other in the area. Dylan Donnelly takes over from Bill McLoughlin 10.52pm update: UK unveils 11 new expert groups Boris Johnson has unveiled 11 new expert advisory groups to help the UK secure ambitious free trade agreements with countries across the world, once ties with the European Union are fully cut at the end of the Brexit transition period. A set of new advisory groups have been established in order to help advise the Government on how to get the best deals, when the UK is fully free from the shakles of the EU. The groups will range from experts in investment, life sciences and financial services. International Trade Secretary, Liz Truss said: "This is about bringing business closer to the negotiating table and using their expertise to help secure the best possible deals that deliver jobs and growth across Britain. "Talks with Japan, the US, Australia and New Zealand are entering their crucial latter stages, so it is only right that we step up engagement with vital industries to utilise their technical and strategic expertise. "I want business in Britain to feel engaged and informed about the work we're doing to build an independent trade policy and how it impacts them." 9.47pm update: Michel Barnier "desperate" for Brexit breakthrough Michel Barnier is "desperate" for a breakthrough in talks a leading Eurosceptic has said. Former Brexit Secretary David Davis has said Brussels will be looking to take Britain down to the wire in trade talks and warned the final three weeks of negotiations will be more important than the last three years. Mr Davis said: “Barnier is desperate to resolve his so-called redline issues before we get to the critical endgame. “I have always said that the last three weeks will matter more than the first three years".
Brexit Live: Michel Barnier warned of a no deal
8.50pm update: Boris Johnson's secret weapon exposed Although the a UK-US deal will not be agreed until next year, the UK's ambassador to the US, Dame Karen Pierce could be vital to any hopes of a free trade agreement. Ahead of Joe Biden's potential victory in November, Dam Pierce is now attempting to strengthen ties with the Demcorats. She was previously the Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom to the United Nations. A report for The Times added: "Her previous posting in Washington was between 1992 and 1995, the last time a President lost his bid for re-election. "Sir John Major had to transition from working with a Republican President, George Bush Sr, to his Democratic successor, Bill Clinton. "That experience may offer a cautionary tale. The incoming Clinton administration believed that the Major government had tried to help his rival in the 1992 election by searching Home Office records in an attempt to substantiate rumours that Mr Clinton applied for British citizenship while studying at Oxford to avoid the Vietnam draft. "The Prime Minister wrote a letter of apology to President-elect Clinton, saying that the Home Office had made the search after a request from The Washington Post, not him. "When he flew to Washington on a working visit in December 1992, Mr Clinton declined to meet him."
Brexit live: Boris Johnson was optimistic over a new deal
7.17pm update: Boris urged to to make changes to Brexit talks Director of the UK in a Changing Europe, Professor Anand Menon, has claimed significant changes should've been made to the withdrawal agreement before it was agreed by the Prime Minister. Professor Menon said: "Bear in mind that in the Northern Ireland protocol there is a stipulation about the EU state aid rules. "These are precisely the rules the Government is utterly rejecting during the Brexit negotiations, those rules will continue to apply to Northern Ireland. "If you end up with UK wide tax measures to help businesses, which help businesses in Great Britain and Northern Ireland, they will come under the purview of EU state aid rules because they apply for Northern Ireland." 6.25pm update: Spain's no deal fear as country prepares for "dramatic consequences" Brexit will have serious consequences for Spanish fishermen if the UK walks away from negotiations. The issues of fisheries has not yet been resolved during Brexit talks and Spain's Agriculture, Fisheries and Food minister Luis Planas, claimed there will be dramatic consequences for the country. He said: “We have 80 Spanish vessels in UK fisheries plus another 21 with British and Spanish partners. "There are another 100 vessels flying German, French, Irish and Netherlands flags, with Spanish associates, plus the 25 from Vigo in the Falkland Islands and another 19 operating with the Falklands ensign."
Brexit: Tomohiko Taniguchi ‘positive’ for UK-Japan trade deal
6.01pm update: Ex-Brexit Party MEP urges Boris to defend fishing waters The issue of the UK's fishing waters has still not been resolved during Brexit negotiations with the EU. However, commenting on the prospect of the British fisheries, former Brexit Party MEP for the South East, Alexandra Phillips has claimed not reclaiming the waters would be a "betrayal". Writing for The Daily Telegraph, she said: "We are sleep-walking into underselling our nation’s potential on an alarming scale. We cannot let our fishing industry slip through the net. "To do so would miss the entire point of becoming a proud, self-determining nation once again."
Brexit news: Japan-UK trade deal hit by delays
4.45pm update: Japan-UK trade to miss deadline The UK-Japan trade deal is set to miss next Monday's trade deadline. The Prime Minister's official spokesman yesterday had claimed a deal would be closed by next Monday but according to City AM, trade officials are now less confident of a deal being struck by then. The issue over British agricultural products is believed to be the reason for the hold up in talks. 3.10pm update: Gordon Brown pushes for UK to secure place in Horizon Europe The former Prime Minister, issued a call for support the continuation of UK/EU research collaborations. Without a deal on association, UK science will lose full access to the EU's funding scheme between 2021 to 2027. Speaking at the Edinburgh International Book Festival alongside European Commission vice-president Frans Timmermans, Mr Brown insisted it was crucial for the UK to continue the future relationship. Bill McLoughlin takes over from Ciaran McGrath.
EU-UK negotiations
3pm update: Barnier's 'trolling' reveals last-minute attempt to force UK to back down Michel Barnier is now trolling the UK by tweeting the same Brexit-related message in a different language every day, a Tory MP has said. However, Daniel Kawczynski believes the tweets - which he thinks are aimed at prompting member states to engage with the UK on a bilateral basis to push his arguments - are actually a sign of the EU negotiator's increasing desperation. Mr Barnier first tweeted the message, in English, on August 4. He said: "The #Brexit transition ends 31.12.2020. In five months, GB leaves EU Single Market and Customs Union. 2.32pm update: Brexit POLL - as no deal looms, has Boris Johnson negotiated better than Theresa May? VOTE Boris Johnson is holding firm in post-Brexit trade talks with the EU - but with negotiations deadlocked, do you think he has done a better job than Theresa May? Express.co.uk readers can vote in our poll on who has negotiated better out of Mr Johnson and Mrs May. And let us know more about what you think in the comments section.
1.34pm update: Shock poll reveals EU nations support for leaving bloc if Brexit a success The EU has been dealt a major blow after a shock poll revealed growing support for leaving the Brussels bloc among its ‘Big Four’. The Union is under pressure after results revealed member states would consider exiting the bloc if Brexit proved to be a success. Nearly half of Italians quizzed said they would consider leaving the EU if the UK and its economy were in a “good state” in five years after its exit. Forty-five percent of Italian citizens said they agreed or strongly agreed with ‘Italexit’ when they were asked “I will be more likely to support my country leaving the EU if the UK and its economy are in a good state in five years, agree or disagree?” Meanwhile, the Redfield and Wilton Strategies poll, commissioned by Euronews, found 38 percent of French people would consider unshackling itself from the bloc in the event of a successful Brexit. While Spain saw 37 percent of its citizens in favour of leaving. Germany, the EU’s largest economy, was the least likely to support leaving the bloc, with just 30 percent of respondents supporting a departure. 1.14pm update: EU trade chief Hogan under pressure over "golfgate" The head of the European Commission expects a full report from Phil Hogan on his attendance at a controversial golf dinner in Ireland, according to a spokeswoman. Commission president Ursula von der Leyen also wants the EU Trade Commissioner to publish the timeline of his movements in Ireland over recent weeks. Pressure has been building on Mr Hogan to step down from his EU role after he attended last week's function with more than 80 people present. Large social gatherings are discouraged in the country during the pandemic. Mr Hogan is a senior Irish politician with significant standing in Brussels who would be deeply involved in any deal with Britain after Brexit.
12.25pm Pound nudges upwards Sterling rose on Tuesday as the dollar slipped and investors shrugged off an unexpected drop in Britain's monthly retail sales data and no-deal Brexit concerns. The dollar fell after investors returned to riskier currencies as a successful phone call between top trade officials in the United States and China boosted positive sentiment. Sterling was last up 0.4 percent at $1.3122 versus the greenback . It was little changed at 90.195 pence versus the euro . Morten Lund, an analyst at Nordea Markets said: "It's much more about general risk sentiment and I think that's why sterling is doing well this morning. "We also have a weaker dollar that has to some extent helped sterling."
EU trade commissioner Phil Hogan
11.25am update: Ports consider crewless ships plan as Brexit looms The British Ports Association has launched a new initiative looking at the viability of autonomous shipping - or crewless ships - for UK ports, including a call for evidence from interested parties. BPA is creating a new Autonomous Shipping in Ports Network and yesterday opened a call for evidence from the wider maritime community on what ports should consider to prepare for receiving autonomous ships in the future. The prospect of seeing autonomous ships in UK ports is definitely on the horizon but there will be much to do to prepare ourselves. This includes the consideration for port and marine operations, regulatory frameworks, infrastructure and receptions facilities, land to vessel communications and vessel safety. Richard Ballantyne, the Chief Executive of the British Ports Association, said: "Although we are at the early stages, a lot of work is taking place across the maritime community. Many UK ports are now starting to ask what they should be considering as they develop their ports and recruit the next generation. "This will be an ongoing initiative for the BPA but initially we are inviting evidence from a cross section of maritime sector organisations. This will be in relation to issues that they see specific in to ports and harbours moving forward into autonomous maritime operations. "It will also help us to support and participate in various government initiatives in the UK such as Maritime 2050, the work of the Maritime Skills Commission and other innovation, sustainability and infrastructure projects." 10.30am update: Brexit talks on a knife-edge Brexit talks are on a knife-edge after it was revealed Michel Barnier may not even bother to travel to London next week to talk to opposite number David Frost. Joe Barnes, Express.co.uk's Brussels correspondent, tweeted: "Informal Brexit talks between David Frost and Michel Barnier scheduled for this week could be downgraded to a phone call with the EU negotiator unsure whether to travel to London after serious doubt was cast over the possibility of an agreement."
Joe Barnes' tweet
10.05am update: Andrew Neil sends clueless SNP supporters into frenzy – 'What will your currency be?' Andrew Neil has rubbished claims by Scottish independence supporters that their country could thrive with its own currency outside of the United Kingdom, telling them to "do some research". With the end of the transition period looming, The veteran TV presenter became embroiled in a debate which lasted days on Twitter on the issue of Scottish independence and Scotland rejoining the European Union. Mr Neil was still debating with online users two days after the debate started. He responded to an initial tweet put out by an independence campaigner on August 22 who claimed Boris Johnson's Government were "utterly bricking it over losing Scotland via Indyref2". 9.40am update Brits abroad "fearful" of no deal, says analyst
British ex-pats are becoming anxious at the prospect of a no-deal outcome at the end of the year, an analyst has said. James Green, divisional manager of Europe with deVere Group, which claims to be the world's largest independent financial advisory and fintech organisation, warned: "With just months to go until the end of the transition period, the risk of a no-deal Brexit is real and it’s rising. "Currently, there seems little hope of a deal getting done as both sides are showing no indications of altering their positions. This saga is making Britons living across Europe increasingly financially fearful – and rightly so – as they could be disproportionately affected by the UK crashing out of the EU." 8.58am update: Barnier's London trip hanging in the balance The EU's negotiating team is yet to confirm their trip to London for more Brexit talks - and even if it does happen, Michel Barnier may not go, it has been claimed. A Brussels insider said the visit was far from certain to happen. 8.52am update: Danger of a ‘Swiss Brexit’ as critical referendum sparks panic in Brussels Switzerland could be about to follow in the footsteps of Britain and have their own “Brexit moment” as the Central European country holds a critical referendum on its relationship with the EU. The Swiss will head to the polls on September 27 to decide whether or not the country should abandon a deal between Switzerland, which has always resisted the temptation to join the EU, and the Brussels bloc guaranteeing free movement between the two. The referendum to abolish free movement of EU citizens across Switzerland has been billed as Bern’s “Brexit moment”. Such a decision would be a bitter blow to Brussels in the aftermath of the UK’s decision to leave the trade bloc. 8.38am update: EU is stalling progress with unrealistic demands - UK official The UK has hit back over EU claims it is being "unrealistic" in its demands with respect to a trade deal - with an official claiming it was the bloc which was stalling progress. After suggestions from EU officials that the UK was likely to sacrifice fishing rights in a trade-off to ensure freedom from its rules and regulations, Brussels-based journalist Nick Gutteridge tweeted: "British official hits back on this: 'The UK has consistently pushed for detailed textual discussions on the core elements of a trade agreement. "If the EU continues to stall progress because of its unrealistic asks on fish and subsidies, we will quickly run out of time."
Nick Gutteridge's tweet
8.32am update: EU insider lifts lid on how Barnier's negotiating camp now racked with defeatist pessimism Brussels insiders have lifted the lid on the increasingly bleak mood among its Brexit negotiators with one EU source admitting: "Outsiders don't realise how pessimistic we've become." The growing sense of despondency within Michel Barnier's team is fuelled by fears of a bitter no deal Brexit with EU negotiators braced for a vicious "blame game" over who is responsible for the stalemate. Last week's tense talks which ended in stalemate did nothing to lift flagging spirits in Brussels. An EU insider said: "Outsiders don’t realise how pessimistic we've become."
Michel Barnier's negotiating team is becoming increasingly pessimistic, the insider said
8.15am update: Pound soars as investors relax over Brexit talks edging towards no deal The pound rose this morning amid sterling investors appearing to relax over the UK's Brexit trade talks with the EU edging towards no deal. The pound suffered badly against the dollar when coronavirus hit the global markets in March. British Sterling's highest total this year is now just above $1.31. This will be the time of the December 31 exit from the EU’s single market and customs union. 8.05am update: Barnier rejects new UK plan to keep busy shipping routes open after Brexit European Union negotiators have rejected a British offer to prevent freight backlogs at busy ports after Brexit, according to Brussels sources. UK officials tabled a new paper with plans to keep "roll on, roll off" ports on both sides of English Channel flowing as part of any future free-trade agreement with the bloc. But Michel Barnier is said to have "snubbed" the proposal because it could keep the EU indefinitely tied to an unwanted system. A Brussels insider said: "The plan was snubbed because it would have tied the EU into a system when flexibility will be needed over time." 7.57am update: Europe's fishermen preparing for 'naval battle' in no deal scenario With Brexit trade talks still deadlocked, a fisherman has claimed European nations could become embroiled in "naval battles" over fishing waters. Stephane Pinto, fisherman and vice-president of the fisheries committee, said: "If tomorrow there is no deal Brexit, meaning a hard Brexit, all the flotillas of Europe, the Belgians, the Dutch, and the French will all be in the same fishing zone. "And in terms of cohabitation that would be difficult. I think there would be a naval battle." This statement made by Mr Pinto in an interview with AFP echoed warnings made in a remarkable report.
A fisherman in Scotland


thedailyexpress--2020-08-25--Labour at war as Corbyn and McDonnell didn’t speak for MONTHS after row

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Their feud was triggered by Mr McDonnell ’ s dismay that Mr Corbyn refused to back down with hardline disciplinary matters against Jewish MP Dame Margaret Hodge who had questioned the party leader about antisemitism in the Commons .
In one shadow cabinet meeting Mr McDonnell was said to be “ gripped by an almost biblical temper ” at the decision to proceed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jeremy Corbyn could be booted out of Labour by Keir Starmer NEXT MONTH Incendiary extracts from the book , Left Out : The Inside Story of Labour Under Corbyn , reveal that Mr Corbyn ’ s office was on the “ warpath ” over the matter .
“ The decision would trigger the most profound breach between Corbyn and John McDonnell , that they would ever experience , ” it is claimed .
“ Some in the leader ’ s office argue that it was never repaired .
At its heart , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discipline a septuagenarian Jewish MP who had vented about racism , albeit aggressively , as it would any other member ?
Or would it compromise by having the issue dealt with off the books .

John McDonnell: Anti-Semitism is a ‘stain’ on Corbyn
Their feud was triggered by Mr McDonnell’s dismay that Mr Corbyn refused to back down with hardline disciplinary matters against Jewish MP Dame Margaret Hodge who had questioned the party leader about antisemitism in the Commons. In one shadow cabinet meeting Mr McDonnell was said to be “gripped by an almost biblical temper” at the decision to proceed with action against the veteran MP.
Incendiary extracts from the book, Left Out: The Inside Story of Labour Under Corbyn, reveal that Mr Corbyn’s office was on the “warpath” over the matter. “The decision would trigger the most profound breach between Corbyn and John McDonnell, that they would ever experience,” it is claimed. “Some in the leader’s office argue that it was never repaired. At its heart, the dispute was political. “Would Labour discipline a septuagenarian Jewish MP who had vented about racism, albeit aggressively, as it would any other member? Or would it compromise by having the issue dealt with off the books.
Jeremy Corbyn and John McDonnell were at war
Jeremy Corbyn and John McDonnell in happier times
Mr Corbyn backed the former option. Those who saw the political danger in following the letter of the rulebook rather than conceding in the interests of what they called “the Project” were exasperated. “McDonnell was among them. With [General Secretary of the Labour Party Jennie] Formby on holiday in Turkey, he turned to [Jeremy Corbyn’s Chief of Staff Karie] Murphy and urged her to cancel the disciplinary action. Murphy refused.” The embarrassing details were revealed yesterday in extracts published in The Times. It revealed that the-then Shadow Chancellor lobbied Mr Corbyn “obsessively” over the decision to discipline Dame Margaret. “To them, it appeared to be a classic McDonnell manoeuvre: a short-term tactical compromise for the sake of the Project,” the authors claim.
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Mr Corbyn with Karie Murphy
“But McDonnell’s reaction was motivated by a deep anger as much as it was a cool political pragmatism or a desire for control.” The feud also threw the two hardline socialists’ friendship into doubt. “A question that preoccupied aides was whether McDonnell and Corbyn were comrades or personal friends first,” the books states. One senior aide is quoted as saying: “They never spoke for months. Never spoke the whole summer.” Another Labour staffer said: “It was absolutely true that they weren’t talking.


thedailyexpress--2020-08-25--EU insider lifts lid on how Barnier's negotiating camp now racked with defeatist pessimism

The growing sense of despondency within Michel Barnier 's team is fuelled by fears of a bitter no deal Brexit with EU negotiators braced for a vicious `` blame game '' over who is responsible for the stalemate .
Last week 's tense talks which ended in stalemate did nothing to lift flagging spirits in Brussels .
An EU insider said : `` Outsiders don ’ t realise how pessimistic we ’ ve become .
`` We expect the mood to switch rapidly to contingency planning , in expectation the UK will throw itself into the blame game rather than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that if we do end up with no deal it ’ ll be because the EU underestimated the UK ’ s determination is misplaced .
`` If it happens it ’ ll be because there was no overlap of interests allowing a landing zone . ''
Post-Brexit trade talks between the UK and EU are `` frozen '' with both sides refusing to back down on the key issues of fisheries and state aid .
Mr Barnier warned agreeing a deal before the deadline currently `` seems unlikely '' , as he suggested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
His UK counterpart David Frost also warned `` there has been little progress '' after the conclusion of the seventh round of talks last Friday .
Both sides accept time is running out to broker a deal before the transition period comes to a close at the end of the year , which would see UK firms facing high tariffs for trade .
Mr Frost said he believes an agreement can still be struck , but he accused the EU of ruling out `` any further substantive work '' unless the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and fisheries policy .
A senior negotiating official for the UK insisted `` it 's not us that 's slowing it down '' , and ruled out accepting Mr Barnier 's position : `` Obviously we 're not going to do that .
So it 's frozen . ''
After a breakfast meeting between the top negotiators at the close of the talks in Brussels , Mr Barnier was equally as pessimistic about progress .
He said : `` Too often it felt as if we were going backwards more than forwards .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ what I said in London in July remains true .
`` At this stage , an agreement between the UK and the European Union seems unlikely .
`` I simply do not understand why we are wasting valuable time . ''
He said `` we have made no progress whatsoever '' on the key issues of fishing policy , and said they `` still struggle to agree on the necessary guarantees to protect citizens ' fundamental rights '' in law enforcement .
DO N'T MISS EU rejects new UK plan to keep busy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] 'We 're leaving , we 're sovereign ! '
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Brexit: Leaked documents puts pressure on the EU says expert
The growing sense of despondency within Michel Barnier's team is fuelled by fears of a bitter no deal Brexit with EU negotiators braced for a vicious "blame game" over who is responsible for the stalemate. Last week's tense talks which ended in stalemate did nothing to lift flagging spirits in Brussels.
Outsiders don’t realise how pessimistic we’ve become EU insider
An EU insider said: "Outsiders don’t realise how pessimistic we’ve become. "We expect the mood to switch rapidly to contingency planning, in expectation the UK will throw itself into the blame game rather than the end game. "The idea that if we do end up with no deal it’ll be because the EU underestimated the UK’s determination is misplaced. "If it happens it’ll be because there was no overlap of interests allowing a landing zone."
Michel Barnier
Post-Brexit trade talks between the UK and EU are "frozen" with both sides refusing to back down on the key issues of fisheries and state aid. Mr Barnier warned agreeing a deal before the deadline currently "seems unlikely", as he suggested Britain is "wasting valuable time". His UK counterpart David Frost also warned "there has been little progress" after the conclusion of the seventh round of talks last Friday. Both sides accept time is running out to broker a deal before the transition period comes to a close at the end of the year, which would see UK firms facing high tariffs for trade. READ MORE:Brexit LIVE: Brussels faces MAJOR trade blow ahead of crunch talks
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Brexit negotiators Michel Barnier and David Frost
Mr Frost said he believes an agreement can still be struck, but he accused the EU of ruling out "any further substantive work" unless the UK accepts the bloc's state aid rules and fisheries policy. A senior negotiating official for the UK insisted "it's not us that's slowing it down", and ruled out accepting Mr Barnier's position: "Obviously we're not going to do that. So it's frozen." After a breakfast meeting between the top negotiators at the close of the talks in Brussels, Mr Barnier was equally as pessimistic about progress.
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He said: "Too often it felt as if we were going backwards more than forwards. "Given the short time left, what I said in London in July remains true. "At this stage, an agreement between the UK and the European Union seems unlikely. "I simply do not understand why we are wasting valuable time." He said "we have made no progress whatsoever" on the key issues of fishing policy, and said they "still struggle to agree on the necessary guarantees to protect citizens' fundamental rights" in law enforcement. DON'T MISS
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Brexit timeline


thedailyexpress--2020-08-25--Tories mock SNP by creating law named after disgraced MSP who failed to attend Holyrood

Details emerged of hundreds of messages he had sent via Instagram and Facebook to a 16-year-old boy .
Mr MacKay has not been present at Holyrood since the incident and although he was suspended by the SNP , he remains an MSP on a salary of £64,470 per year which was increased in April 2020 .
The Renfrewshire MSP has apologised for the incident .
The 42-year-old would also be entitled to approximately £50,000 as a resettlement grant , having served in the Parliament for 10 years .
Graham Simpson MSP , the Scottish Government ’ s Transport spokesperson wants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the form of a private members ' bill .
The idea was considered but rejected by the Scottish Parliament in 2018 following the resignation of SNP childcare minister Mark McDonald for inappropriate behaviour towards three women .
Speaking today , Mr Simpson said : `` Most councils have rules on this and if Derek Mackay was a councillor and had n't done his job for six months then he would have been drummed out .
`` But there are no rules covering MSPs ' attendance , which means they can do nothing and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Health Secretary to STAND DOWN after Scottish care home chaos '' In theory , you could act like Derek Mackay is currently doing for five years .
That is just wrong . ''
Repeating his calls for Mr MacKay to resign , he added : `` If you are elected to the Scottish Parliament you should be a worker , not a shirker .
`` Nothing else should be allowed .
If Mr Mackay had any honour left he would stand down now and allow the people of Renfrewshire North and West to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Following Mr Mackay 's resignation , the Scottish Liberal Democrats called for the Scottish Parliament to introduce recall powers similar to Westminster to sanction MSPs guilty of `` unacceptable conduct '' .
DO N'T MISS : Ex-SNP deputy leader admits 'grave concerns ' about hate crime bill [ REVEAL ] SNP veteran issues stark warning to Nicola Sturgeon [ INSIGHT ] Furious Westminster MPs turn on own party with internal rift [ LATEST ] A spokeswoman backed the Tories position today calling the Bill proposal “ interesting ” , and added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ favoured a system of recall which has been debated and discussed .
We still hope we can persuade other parties to support it .
“ The six-month rule is an interesting idea which is worthy of further consideration . ''
Elaine Smith , Scottish Labour Business Manager agreed and said : “ Scottish Labour agrees with the principles behind this proposal and supports any action taken to hold MSPs , such as Derek Mackay , that continually fail to fulfil their duties as representatives to account .
“ However , we must have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who are absent from the chamber for six months for health , family or other legitimate reasons are not penalised for their absence.
” But the Scottish Greens claimed that the Bill would deal with a “ small number of cases ” warning that the case should not become a game of “ political football ” .
A spokesperson for the party added : “ It ’ s essential that Parliament ’ s procedures are fit for purpose , and that action can be taken where an MSP is found guilty of gross @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any other job .
“ This must be an independent process , and not become a political football .

Richard Leonard says people are ‘angry’ over care home failings
The Scottish Conservatives today put forward the proposals called "Mackay's Law" which have been backed by Labour and the Liberal Democrats. It comes after MSP Derek MacKay resigned as Scotland’s Finance Secretary the night before the Scottish Budget in February.
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Details emerged of hundreds of messages he had sent via Instagram and Facebook to a 16-year-old boy. Mr MacKay has not been present at Holyrood since the incident and although he was suspended by the SNP, he remains an MSP on a salary of £64,470 per year which was increased in April 2020. The Renfrewshire MSP has apologised for the incident. The 42-year-old would also be entitled to approximately £50,000 as a resettlement grant, having served in the Parliament for 10 years.
The law will be named after Derek MacKay
Derek MacKay served as a former Finance Secretary in Nicola Sturgeon's government
Graham Simpson MSP, the Scottish Government’s Transport spokesperson wants to bring in the new rules in the form of a private members' bill. The idea was considered but rejected by the Scottish Parliament in 2018 following the resignation of SNP childcare minister Mark McDonald for inappropriate behaviour towards three women. Speaking today, Mr Simpson said: "Most councils have rules on this and if Derek Mackay was a councillor and hadn't done his job for six months then he would have been drummed out. "But there are no rules covering MSPs' attendance, which means they can do nothing and pocket the cash. READ MORE: Health Secretary to STAND DOWN after Scottish care home chaos
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Holyrood is now in session
"In theory, you could act like Derek Mackay is currently doing for five years. That is just wrong." Repeating his calls for Mr MacKay to resign, he added: "If you are elected to the Scottish Parliament you should be a worker, not a shirker. "Nothing else should be allowed. If Mr Mackay had any honour left he would stand down now and allow the people of Renfrewshire North and West to elect someone who will properly represent them." Following Mr Mackay's resignation, the Scottish Liberal Democrats called for the Scottish Parliament to introduce recall powers similar to Westminster to sanction MSPs guilty of "unacceptable conduct". DON'T MISS:
Ex-SNP deputy leader admits 'grave concerns' about hate crime bill [REVEAL]
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The proposed Bill would apply to all MSPs
A spokeswoman backed the Tories position today calling the Bill proposal “interesting”, and added: “For some time we have favoured a system of recall which has been debated and discussed. We still hope we can persuade other parties to support it. “The six-month rule is an interesting idea which is worthy of further consideration." Elaine Smith, Scottish Labour Business Manager agreed and said: “Scottish Labour agrees with the principles behind this proposal and supports any action taken to hold MSPs, such as Derek Mackay, that continually fail to fulfil their duties as representatives to account. “However, we must have provisions put in place to ensure MSPs who are absent from the chamber for six months for health, family or other legitimate reasons are not penalised for their absence.”
Most of Scotland's political parties have backed the motion
But the Scottish Greens claimed that the Bill would deal with a “small number of cases” warning that the case should not become a game of “political football”. A spokesperson for the party added: “It’s essential that Parliament’s procedures are fit for purpose, and that action can be taken where an MSP is found guilty of gross misconduct which would see them dismissed from any other job. “This must be an independent process, and not become a political football. “This isn't simply about attendance though.
Derek Mackay: 'Rich' Scotland can afford to be independent


thedailyexpress--2020-08-28--Andrew Neil spells out to Nicola Sturgeon why Scottish independence bid is doomed

The veteran TV presenter tore apart SNP MSP James Dornan 's arguments that Scotland could go its own path and thrive in the future .
The row erupted after Mr Neil responded to a tweet from an independence supporter who claimed Boris Johnson 's Government was guilty of a `` catastrophic failure '' and had `` shown great mismanagement of Scotland 's economy '' .
Mr Neil said rather than mismanagement , Scotland 's financial woes were down to the fact that it `` spends £15bn more than it gathers in taxes - and Westminster makes up the difference '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the debate , saying : `` We are assigned spending for all sorts that we have no control over , do not want or do not benefit from . ''
Mr Neil told the MSP that Scots `` don ’ t contribute anything like enough in taxes to cover spending '' .
He added : `` Total Scottish tax take is £66bn .
Total state spending is £81bn .
Shortfall : £15bn .
`` A gap not filled from your money .
You should know this : they ’ re Scot Gov stats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ point out that Scotland 's spending per capita is above the UK average , and in doing so , delivering a hammer blow to Nicola Sturgeon 's independence dream .
READ MORE : Sturgeon 's independence plans ruined as 'Scotland benefits from UK' He explained : `` Your own Scot Gov stats also reveal that , though spending per capita in Scotland is over £1,600 above the UK average , taxes paid per capita in Scotland are over £300 less per capita than UK average .
`` So Scottish tax take less , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stats ... '' The fiery debate comes a day after data showed Scotland ’ s fiscal deficit has risen to nearly £2,000 per person .
DO N'T MISS Sturgeon 's 'power grab ' claims picked apart in brutal assessment [ INSIGHT ] Sturgeon 's bizarre new law 'could criminalise comedy jokes ' [ ANALYSIS Nicola Sturgeon refuses to answer coronavirus care home grilling [ VIDEO ] The gap between tax income and spending has widened to become more than three times larger than the UK as a whole .
The deficit shot up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ result of a row over Scotland 's independence during this week 's First Minister ’ s Questions between Nicola Sturgeon and the Scottish Labour leader , Richard Leonard .
Ms Sturgeon said : `` If we were independent we wouldn ’ t need to go cap in hand to the UK government pleading . ''
Scotland 's Finance Secretary Kate Forbes lashed out in an interview with ITV on Thursday over Scotland 's deficit .
She said : `` Across the world countries operate with deficits .
That 's not new , that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ITV presenter pointed out that many nations do not have a deficit as high as Scotland 's , Ms Forbes shot back : `` Well actually , on the contrary , we have just seen unprecedented borrowing from countries around the world , small and large countries , including the UK Government whose deficit is set to rise to £372 billion this year . ''

Nicola Sturgeon grilled on Scottish deficit by Richard Leonard
The veteran TV presenter tore apart SNP MSP James Dornan's arguments that Scotland could go its own path and thrive in the future. The row erupted after Mr Neil responded to a tweet from an independence supporter who claimed Boris Johnson's Government was guilty of a "catastrophic failure" and had "shown great mismanagement of Scotland's economy".
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Mr Neil said rather than mismanagement, Scotland's financial woes were down to the fact that it "spends £15bn more than it gathers in taxes - and Westminster makes up the difference". Mr Dornan stuck his head into the debate, saying: "We are assigned spending for all sorts that we have no control over, do not want or do not benefit from." Mr Neil told the MSP that Scots "don’t contribute anything like enough in taxes to cover spending".
Andrew Neil has torn apart the SNP's arguments for independence
The First Minister said if Scotland was independent it would not need to plead for money from the UK Government
He added: "Total Scottish tax take is £66bn. Total state spending is £81bn. Shortfall: £15bn. "A gap not filled from your money. You should know this: they’re Scot Gov stats." Mr Neil went on to point out that Scotland's spending per capita is above the UK average, and in doing so, delivering a hammer blow to Nicola Sturgeon's independence dream. READ MORE: Sturgeon's independence plans ruined as 'Scotland benefits from UK'
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Andrew Neil picked a fight with an SNP MSP over claims about Scotland's deficit
A Scottish independence march
Nicola Sturgeon is not giving up hope of a second IndyRef
The gap between tax income and spending has widened to become more than three times larger than the UK as a whole. The deficit shot up to £15bn in 2019-20 and was the result of a row over Scotland's independence during this week's First Minister’s Questions between Nicola Sturgeon and the Scottish Labour leader, Richard Leonard. Ms Sturgeon said: "If we were independent we wouldn’t need to go cap in hand to the UK government pleading."
Scotland wants ‘powers’ to manage deficit says Kate Forbes
Scotland's Finance Secretary Kate Forbes lashed out in an interview with ITV on Thursday over Scotland's deficit.
She said: "Across the world countries operate with deficits. That's not new, that's not radical."
When the ITV presenter pointed out that many nations do not have a deficit as high as Scotland's, Ms Forbes shot back: "Well actually, on the contrary, we have just seen unprecedented borrowing from countries around the world, small and large countries, including the UK Government whose deficit is set to rise to £372 billion this year."
A woman at a pro-independence rally


thedailyexpress--2020-08-28--Barnier blinks first: Panicking EU chief launches last-ditch bid to stop no deal Brexit

The disheartened Frenchman urged them to lobby the Prime Minister to drop his negotiating red lines in a final bid to break the months of bitter deadlock .
In a private briefing to European capitals , Mr Barnier explained his efforts to broker a free-trade agreement are on the verge of failure because he can not convince his opposite number David Frost to move closer to the bloc ’ s demands for a regulatory level-playing field and access to Britain ’ s fishing waters for EU vessels .
The Brussels bureaucrat told member state diplomats they should also be ready @ @ @ @ @ @ @ both sides can not overcome their differences in the coming weeks .
“ Barnier is ringing capitals to update us on the lack of progress , ” one EU official told Express.co.uk .
“ When leaders will be involved depends on how things develop across the next few weeks , but it ’ s difficult to be optimistic at the moment.
” Mr Barnier believes it will require a political push to inject life back into the stalled talks , unless there is progress when the next round of negotiations start on September @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ He thinks we ’ re coming to the end of the road and have gone as far as we can without serious political decisions made at the top level.
” Another EU official added : “ Pretty soon either some political things have to happen or we are simply heading towards no deal – by accident , or political will.
” EU officials have admitted chances of a no deal Brexit have dramatically increased because of the ongoing stalemate .
Member states , led by France , have previously rejected attempts by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for existing Brussels rules on fishing .
After last week ’ s seventh round of negotiations broke up , the Frenchman accused British negotiators of “ wasting valuable time ” .
The EU dealmaker was banking on the Prime Minister ’ s lead negotiator to offer a series of concessions on fishing and state subsidies to move the talks forward .
But Mr Frost blamed the deadlock on his counterpart ’ s refusal to begin drafting a joint legal text for the future relationship .
Brussels sources are now more pessimistic than ever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the end of Britain ’ s post-Brexit transition in December .
MUST READ : Renewed hope for UK-US trade deal after EU does agreement with Trump EU officials bemoaned a “ completely wasted summer ” , claiming the Prime Minister ’ s attempts to outflank the bloc ’ s negotiators have failed .
“ We have had a whole summer completely wasted , a cabinet that doesn ’ t understand how negotiations work , a prime minister who , I think doesn ’ t understand how the negotiations work – because he is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pull off negotiating at the eleventh hour , ” one insider fumed .
Attitudes towards the UK are said to be hardening in the final months of the trade talks , with influential leaders , such as France ’ s Emmanuel Macron , unwilling to offer serious concessions to Britain .
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Michel Barnier: UK seeing ‘clear consequences of Brexit vote’
The disheartened Frenchman urged them to lobby the Prime Minister to drop his negotiating red lines in a final bid to break the months of bitter deadlock. In a private briefing to European capitals, Mr Barnier explained his efforts to broker a free-trade agreement are on the verge of failure because he cannot convince his opposite number David Frost to move closer to the bloc’s demands for a regulatory level-playing field and access to Britain’s fishing waters for EU vessels. The Brussels bureaucrat told member state diplomats they should also be ready to re-evaluate his hardline negotiating guidelines if both sides cannot overcome their differences in the coming weeks.
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“Barnier is ringing capitals to update us on the lack of progress,” one EU official told Express.co.uk. “When leaders will be involved depends on how things develop across the next few weeks, but it’s difficult to be optimistic at the moment.” Mr Barnier believes it will require a political push to inject life back into the stalled talks, unless there is progress when the next round of negotiations start on September 7. An EU source said: “He thinks we’re coming to the end of the road and have gone as far as we can without serious political decisions made at the top level.”
Michel Barnier is begging to EU leaders to help save Brexit talks from collapse
Michel Barnier has briefed EU member states that Brexit talks could soon fail
Another EU official added: “Pretty soon either some political things have to happen or we are simply heading towards no deal – by accident, or political will.” EU officials have admitted chances of a no deal Brexit have dramatically increased because of the ongoing stalemate. Member states, led by France, have previously rejected attempts by Mr Barnier to water down his demands for existing Brussels rules on fishing. After last week’s seventh round of negotiations broke up, the Frenchman accused British negotiators of “wasting valuable time”.
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Prime Minister Boris Johnson has the EU on the run
The EU dealmaker was banking on the Prime Minister’s lead negotiator to offer a series of concessions on fishing and state subsidies to move the talks forward. But Mr Frost blamed the deadlock on his counterpart’s refusal to begin drafting a joint legal text for the future relationship. Brussels sources are now more pessimistic than ever a deal can be wrapped up before the end of Britain’s post-Brexit transition in December. MUST READ: Renewed hope for UK-US trade deal after EU does agreement with Trump
Negotiators David Frost and Michel Barnier during their Brussels meeting last week
EU officials bemoaned a “completely wasted summer”, claiming the Prime Minister’s attempts to outflank the bloc’s negotiators have failed. “We have had a whole summer completely wasted, a cabinet that doesn’t understand how negotiations work, a prime minister who, I think doesn’t understand how the negotiations work – because he is under the wrong impression that he can pull off negotiating at the eleventh hour,” one insider fumed. Attitudes towards the UK are said to be hardening in the final months of the trade talks, with influential leaders, such as France’s Emmanuel Macron, unwilling to offer serious concessions to Britain. DON'T MISS
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