thedailyexpress--2020-01-22--Brexit LIVE: EU ‘terrified’ of Singapore-on Thames – Brexiteer reveals his plan to thrive

Mr Lowe slammed the bloc after a report suggested Eurocrats were plotting to take a tough line in post-Brexit negotiations with Britain and offer Boris Johnson a trade deal which falls short of the bloc ’ s agreement with Canada .
In a series of angry tweets , Mr Lowe accused the bloc of acting in a “ bitter , twisted ” way when dealing wit British negotiators .
He said : “ The EU 's mission in the Brexit negotiations is to clip the UK 's wings to ensure no-one else follows .
“ If they wo n't give @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's exactly what we should do .
“ Undercut their protectionist racket and we 'll thrive !
” The catchy phrase - “ Singapore-on-Thames ” - refers to the notion that Britain could become a low-tax , lightly regulated economy after it leaves the EU on January 31 .
The idea was first mooted a few years ago by the then-chancellor Philip Hammond .
His comments come as it ererged the European Commission has told member states that it would not be unwise to allow some UK industry bodies to certify that goods @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The medicine and car manufacturing industries are set to be hit hardest under the arrangements .
Brussels will rule out a so-called Mutual Recognition Agreement ( MRA ) which would enable the smooth movement of some goods if the UK aims for only a basic trade deal .
The plan was confirmed by two senior EU sources who spoke to The Daily Telegraph .
One source said : “ We will not blindly delegate the recognition of EU standards .
“ Companies have had plenty of notice about how to get certified in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the aim of the tougher stance was to prevent Britain from having the upper hand in trade .
There are fears in Brussels that if the UK retains easy access to the single market while at the same time having the benefit of striking trade deals around the world it will come out on top .
SEE BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES : Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell has hit out at Sajid Javid for claiming that the “ no alignment ” rule with the EU will not harm manufacturers in the UK .
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right wing ideology ” to override common sense .
This week Mr Javid said he foresees the economy going from “ strength to strength ” after Brexit after he caused confusion in an earlier interview .
Last weekend he said British firms would have to “ adjust ” to the new realities and “ some will benefit , some won ’ t ” .
Mr McDonnell said : “ The Chancellor is reneging on the commitment that Johnson gave to manufacturers during the election campaign that they would be protected .
“ Jobs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s right wing ideology overriding common sense.
” 11.50am update : The closer UK rules are to EU , the better - von der Leyen Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos , European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen restated her position that the UK 's access to the single market would be weakened if it diverged from Brussels ' rules .
But Chancellor Sajid Javid , who was also at the Swiss ski resort , said there was `` no point '' in leaving the EU unless the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brussels rulebook .
Ms von der Leyen said the `` next negotiations will start in February with our British friends '' and promised that officials would `` work day and night '' to reach a deal .
A trade deal needs to be in place when the transition period expires at the end of the year as the UK Government has ruled out extending the process .
Ms von der Leyen said : `` The closer the UK is to the European Union , the better the access to the single market .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ choice not to do so , to be more distant to the European Union , well then there will be more distance to the single market where the level playing field is concerned and where free movement of goods , capital and services is concerned .
French finance minister Bruno Le Maire has said his country wants to keep its “ strong , bilateral ” relationship with the UK after Brexit .
US Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin has said the US will slap auto tariffs on the EU in response to any “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reported .
Rupert Lowe has tweeted : `` The EU 's mission in the Brexit negotiations is to clip the UK 's wings to ensure no-one else follows .
They 're terrified of a 'Singapore-on Thames ' .
If they wo n't give us a fair deal , then that 's exactly what we should do .
Undercut their protectionist racket and we 'll thrive ! ''
Brexit Party chairman and MEP Richard Tice has said it is “ essential ” for Chancellor Sajid Javid to stick to his guns and refuse to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU .
Mr Javid has urged UK companies to “ adjust ” to the new realities , saying , “ there will not be alignment ” .
Mr Tice said : “ Essential Javid sticks to his word .
We maximise the great Brexit opportunities by diverging from daft EU regulations .
“ EU is petrified , as negotiating leverage is now with UK.
” Brexit Party MEP Rupert Lowe has lashed out at the EU in response to the report about the bloc 's intention to deny the UK a Canada-style trade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Telegraph is reporting that the EU is planning to give the UK worse trade deal terms than Canada or Japan .
`` We 've funded their waste and luxury for decades and this is their response .
A belated WTO exit awaits ! ''
MPs will today consider amendments to the Prime Minister 's Brexit deal after the Government was defeated five times by defiant peers .
The House of Lords backed two more amendments to the European Union ( Withdrawal Agreement ) Bill - or WAB - in a mauling for ministers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Monday on the rights of EU workers legally residing in the UK to have physical proof of their right to remain and the power of courts to depart from European Court of Justice rulings .
In the latest reverses , the Government was heavily defeated as peers backed a move to ensure the rights of unaccompanied child refugees to be reunited with their families in the UK post-Brexit .
Labour MP David Lammy has responded to Malcolm Turnbull ’ s comments on Brexit , by claiming the reality of the UK ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be made clear .
Mr Lammy tweeted : “ The delusions of Brexit will soon be exposed.
” Former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has said a post-Brexit trade deal between the UK and Down Under is not a substitute for Britain ’ s ties with Brussels .
In an interview with BBC Newsnight he said the UK had found itself in a “ challenging ” position after it had chosen to leave the world ’ s largest free trade zone .
Mr Turnbull told presenter Emily Maitlis , he said : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know very well , half of your trade more or less goes to the European Union .
“ Britain ’ s trade with Australia is a very small percentage , as indeed it is for Canada and other countries in the Commonwealth .
“ So , you know , the reality is that we in Australia wish Britain the very best .
We are great friends .
“ When I was PM , when the Brexit vote was carried I immediately said to David Cameron and then to his successor Theresa May ‘ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with you , we ’ d look forward to it but it ’ s not a substitute for the European Union ’ .
“ The problem that Britain faces today is simply this : in an age of rising protectionism , the Untied Kingdom has chosen to walk out of the biggest free trade area in the world and its economic prospects , its trade prospects now depend on cutting new and better deals with a whole range of countries , not least of which of course is the EU itself .
So @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you .
”

Brexit: Johnson ‘absolutely confident’ of EU free trade deal
Mr Lowe slammed the bloc after a report suggested Eurocrats were plotting to take a tough line in post-Brexit negotiations with Britain and offer Boris Johnson a trade deal which falls short of the bloc’s agreement with Canada. In a series of angry tweets, Mr Lowe accused the bloc of acting in a “bitter, twisted” way when dealing with British negotiators. He said: “The EU's mission in the Brexit negotiations is to clip the UK's wings to ensure no-one else follows.
“They're terrified of a 'Singapore-on Thames'. “If they won't give us a fair deal, then that's exactly what we should do. “Undercut their protectionist racket and we'll thrive!” The catchy phrase - “Singapore-on-Thames” - refers to the notion that Britain could become a low-tax, lightly regulated economy after it leaves the EU on January 31. The idea was first mooted a few years ago by the then-chancellor Philip Hammond.
Boris Johnson is set to be offered a worse trade deal than Canada in post-Brexit talks
Chancellor Sajid Javid pictured at the World Economic Forum in Davos
His comments come as it emerged the European Commission has told member states that it would not be unwise to allow some UK industry bodies to certify that goods are in line with EU standards. Medical and car manufacturing industries are set to be hit hardest under the arrangements. Brussels will rule out a so-called Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) which would enable the smooth movement of some goods if the UK aims for only a basic trade deal. The plan was confirmed by two senior EU sources who spoke to The Daily Telegraph. One source said: “We will not blindly delegate the recognition of EU standards. “Companies have had plenty of notice about how to get certified in the EU.” And another source said the aim of the tougher stance was to prevent Britain from having the upper hand in trade. SEE BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES:
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Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell has slammed Sajid Javid for his comment on 'no alignment' with the EU
7.35pm update: Emily Thornberry denied 'sneering' at Brexit voters Labour leadership candidate Emily Thornberry has denied she was "sneering" at voters when she laughed at a collegue's claim that anyone who does not hate Brexit has "something wrong" with them. The frontbencher said that she was instead reacting with shock at her shadow cabinet colleague Dawn Butler's remarks. After Andrew Neil played a video clip in which she sits next to Ms Butler and laughs at her remark that "if anyone doesn't hate Brexit, even if you voted for it, there's something wrong with you", she said she laughed because she was "quite shocked" at her collegaue's "most extraordinary" remarks. She added: "I was not sneering". 7.17pm update: Brexit deal with the EU won't happen, warns Emily Thornberry During an interview with BBC's Andrew Neil, the Labour leadership hopeful said "no right thinking person" thinks it is possible to negotiate a deal with the EU before the end of the year. She said: "If we sail off at the end of the year with no deal with the European Union...we are going to be in a lot of trouble." 6.31pm update: Brexit victory: Lords finally approve Brexit Bill The Lords have decided to end the legislative tussle, as they back Boris Johnson's Brexit Bill. The Bill will now be put forward for Royal Assent. 5.21pm update: Boris confident EU will offer Britain preferential terms Boris Johnson has said he doesn't think the EU will offer Britain worse terms than Canada and Japan in a post-Brexit trade deal. He said: "We are in perfect alignment with our EU friends and partners. "We are going to set high standards in the UK and around the World." 5.11pm update: Boris confirms Britain will regain control of fishing borders post-Brexit Boris Johnson has confirmed that Britain will "take back control" of its fishing waters after Brexit. He told Ben Steel: "We will take back control of our fishing borders and become an independent coastal state." He promised "spectacular maritime wealth" as he says "we will make sure we don't trade away Britain's fishing rights". 4.36pm update: UK will lose market access if it ditches Brussels regulations, von der Leyen warns European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has warned the UK that its access to the single market will be weakened if it does not continue to sign up to EU rules after Brexit. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, the European Commission’s president warned of “more distance” between the UK and EU if such a state of affairs came about. She also insisted that trade talks would begin in February, following speculation that there could be a further delay until March. 3.38pm update MPs reject five amendments to the Brexit Bill MPs have rejected a series of amendments to Boris Johnson's Brexit Bill, as proposed by the House of Lords. 3.24pm update: MPs reject bid to reassure devolved governments MPs disagreed with Lords amendment five, which had backed calls to give reassurance to Scotland and Wales on devolution powers, by 349 votes to 246. 3.15pm update: MPs vote against protecting rights of child refugees MPs have voted down a House of Lords amendment to the Brexit Bill, which would have guarenteed family reunion rights for unaccompanied child refugees after EU withdrawal. In a debate in the House of Commons this afternoon, opposition MPs accused the government of showing a "lack of compassion" in failing to commit to supporting the children. The amendment was rejected by 342 votes to 254.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Michel Barnier leave No 10
3.10pm update: MPs vote down a third amendment to do with EU case law MPs voted to disagree with Lords amendment three, which sought to allow cases to be referred to the Supreme Court to decide whether to depart from EU case law, by 350 votes to 247. 2.58pm update: Lords amendment on EU case law rejected by MPs MPs have voted to disagree with Lords amendment two, which was linked to the power of British courts to depart from European Court of Justice judgments, by 348 votes to 246. 2.53pm update: MPs reject amendment on EU citizens' right to documentation MPs have voted to reject an amendment, which was linked to the right of EU citizens lawfully residing in the UK after Brexit to have physical proof of their status. It was voted down by 338 votes to 252. 1.54pm update: SNP’s Westminster leader slams Johnson over rejected Brexit bill Ian Blackford, the SNP’s leader in Westminster, attacked Boris Johnson over his Brexit deal which was rejected by Holyrood, Stormont and the Welsh Assembly. He claimed devolution was being “attacked” by a Conservative Government who do not repeat voters outside of England. Mr Blackford said: "Last night the Lords voted to reinstate the Sewel Convention that the devolved governments must give consent to legislation that affects them. "Devolution is under attack from this Tory Government, powers are being grabbed back to Westminster, there is no respect for the people of Scotland, for Wales and Northern Ireland, their governments, or their decisions. "Yesterday the Welsh Assembly became the third devolved Parliament to refuse consent for the Tory Brexit Bill. "Why is the UK Government ignoring the principle of consent for our national government?" Mr Johnson replied: "(He) knows full well that it is no part or implication of the Sewel Convention to break up the oldest and most successful political union in the world."
Boris Johnson hosts Ursula von der Leyen for talks at Number 10
1.50pm update: No need for Brexit bill amendment, says Barclay Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay has said the government wasn’t to overturn the defeats on the Prime Minister’s Brexit deal after the three devolved parliaments rejected it. Speaking for the government, he said Mr Johnson and his team are committed to maintaining protection for unaccompanied child migrants who wish to travel to the UK to join family members. He said the amendment put forward by Labour peer Lord Dubs which was passed in the upper house was not needed. 1.47pm update: Barclay criticises Lords’ Brexit deal amendment Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay has said the Government cannot accept the Lords' first amendment on citizens' rights as it would make the EU Settlement Scheme "null and void". Mr Barclay said: "This amendment would mean the successful EU Settlement Scheme in its current form would need to be abandoned. This is because there would be no need to register if people could later rely on a declaration that they were already in the UK. "This would make null and void the 2.8 million applications and the 2.5 million grants of status which have already been completed." Mr Barclay said that the amendment would also mean the Government would be unable to issue "more secure" digital documentation without physical documentation, adding: "This would increase the risk of fraud and raises the issue of cost to the Government and citizens. "We need to be able to differentiate between EU citizens who arrived pre-exit and have rights set out in this Bill, and EU citizens who arrive as we leave who will be treated the same as the rest of the world under the forthcoming Immigration Bill. "So despite the good intentions, a declaratory status does not allow for that differentiation, and I therefore urge members to reject this amendment." 1.02pm update: ‘Britain is back!’ - Javid’s resounding message at Davos Chancellor Sajid Javid is today taking part in interviews at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. He said the main message he is pushing at the summit, which is attended by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and President Donald Trump, is that the Brexit uncertainty has finally ended. Mr Javid said: “At the #WEF my message is clear - Britain is back - and uncertainty over. “We will level up our country and lead the way on climate change and beyond.” 12.08pm update: McDonnell slams Javid over ‘no alignment’ stance Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell has hit out at Sajid Javid for claiming that the “no alignment” rule with the EU will not harm manufacturers in the UK. Mr McDonnell accused the Chancellor of allowing “right wing ideology” to override common sense. This week Mr Javid said he foresees the economy going from “strength to strength” after Brexit after he caused confusion in an earlier interview. Last weekend he said British firms would have to “adjust” to the new realities and “some will benefit, some won’t”. Mr McDonnell said: “The Chancellor is reneging on the commitment that Johnson gave to manufacturers during the election campaign that they would be protected. “Jobs are being put at risk by Javid’s right wing ideology overriding common sense.”
Ursula von der Leyen takes part in a press conference with Donald Trump in Davos
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pictured in Davos
11.50am update: The closer UK rules are to EU, the better - von der Leyen Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen restated her position that the UK's access to the single market would be weakened if it diverged from Brussels' rules. But Chancellor Sajid Javid, who was also at the Swiss ski resort, said there was "no point" in leaving the EU unless the UK was going to move away from the Brussels rulebook. Ms von der Leyen said the "next negotiations will start in February with our British friends" and promised that officials would "work day and night" to reach a deal. A trade deal needs to be in place when the transition period expires at the end of the year as the UK Government has ruled out extending the process. Ms von der Leyen said: "The closer the UK is to the European Union, the better the access to the single market. "If it is the UK's choice not to do so, to be more distant to the European Union, well then there will be more distance to the single market where the level playing field is concerned and where free movement of goods, capital and services is concerned. 10.47am update: France keen to retain ‘strong, bilateral’ links with UK French finance minister Bruno Le Maire has said his country wants to keep its “strong, bilateral” relationship with the UK after Brexit. 10.26am update: Trump threatens EU with auto tariffs US Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin has said the US will slap auto tariffs on the EU in response to any “arbitrary” digital tax, AFP has reported. 10.23am update: Undercut EU's protectionist racket, urges Lowe Rupert Lowe has tweeted: "The EU's mission in the Brexit negotiations is to clip the UK's wings to ensure no-one else follows. They're terrified of a 'Singapore-on Thames'. If they won't give us a fair deal, then that's exactly what we should do. Undercut their protectionist racket and we'll thrive!" 10.08am update: EU petrified as UK holds negotiating leverage, claims Tice Brexit Party chairman and MEP Richard Tice has said it is “essential” for Chancellor Sajid Javid to stick to his guns and refuse to align British regulations with those of the EU. Mr Javid has urged UK companies to “adjust” to the new realities, saying, “there will not be alignment”. Mr Tice said: “Essential Javid sticks to his word. We maximise the great Brexit opportunities by diverging from daft EU regulations. “EU is petrified, as negotiating leverage is now with UK.”
France's finance minister, Bruno le Maire, said the UK and France should retain their strong links after Brexit
Former Australian PM Malcolm Turnbull has said trade with the UK does not substitute EU ties
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-01-23--Nicola Sturgeon crisis as Scotland PLUMMETS down world rankings since devolution

A new report has shown how Scotland fell five places between 2006 and 2018 in the list of 32 countries which are members of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development ( OECD ) .
The ranking relates to tests on a string of measures including income , life expectancy and education .
The nation , which now sits in the bottom half of the list , has “ underperformed ” in many fields since Scots voted for devolution in a 1997 referendum .
The Index of Social and Economic Wellbeing ( ISEW ) report lays out how Scotland scored @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 0.5 since 2006 .
It ranks number 21 in a list topped by Switzerland ( 3.38 ) , Norway ( 2.01 ) and Japan ( 3.00 ) .
Greece finished last in the ranking , as it was given a score of 0.66 , below Hungary ( 0.88 ) and Slovakia ( 0.92 ) .
The average life expectancy , which stands at 79 years , was noted as Scotland ’ s weakest area of performance .
Economist John McLaren of the Scottish Trends website produced the report .
He pointed to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reason for the decline in the policy .
He wrote : “ There is a lack of being held to account over policy decisions , in other words too little scrutiny and proper evaluation of the actions of the Scottish government .
“ This is down to a variety of shortcomings , including a weak committee system in the parliament , a lack of academic involvement , a dearth of think tanks , poorly funded political parties and a declining and underfunded media presence.
” READ MORE : SNP MP brutally shut down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also argued that badly-funded opposition parties in the Scottish parliament in Edinburgh had meant a lack of competition for Ms Sturgeon ’ s Scottish National Party ( SNP ) .
Mr McLaren explained : “ Outside of the SNP , Scotland ’ s political parties are either small operations or in effect branch operations of UK parties and in both cases poorly funded .
“ This has inhibited the development of alternative policy ideas and led to a lack of political competition , as their operations are relatively ineffectual in challenging the well-funded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , SNP-led government.
” DO N'T MISS Nicola Sturgeon : Gordon Brown argues there is 'no case ' for indy ref [ INSIGHT ] SNP 's independence bid could trigger Greece-style economic collapse [ ANALYSIS ] Polling guru John Curtice shocks Nicola Sturgeon with independence [ SHOCK ] MSP and former leader of the Scottish Conservatives Ruth Davidson responded to the report by slamming the Government for a recent debate on the flying of an EU flag outside Holyrood .
She tweeted : “ Underperformance in health , education , life expectancy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Yet last week ’ s big , synthetic fight from the Scottish government was not on how to improve these failings , but on which squares of cloth flap out the front of Holyrood.
” Managers of the Scottish parliament have said the EU flag will be removed from outside Holyrood when the UK leaves the bloc on January 31 .
Conservative MP for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine , Andrew Bowie , blamed the SNP for the poor performance .
He said : “ Scotland can and must do better than this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ve fallen behind in almost every key area .
“ We must end this downward spiral .
Let ’ s stop the constitutional grievance and actually get on making Scotland a better place to live , work and invest.
” Meanwhile , Ms Sturgeon clashed with Boris Johnson last week after he slapped down her formal request for another indyref .

Sturgeon has 'no case' for a second referendum says Brown
A new report has shown how Scotland fell five places between 2006 and 2018 in the list of 32 countries which are members of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The ranking relates to tests on a string of measures including income, life expectancy and education. The nation, which now sits in the bottom half of the list, has “underperformed” in many fields since Scots voted for devolution in a 1997 referendum.
The Index of Social and Economic Wellbeing (ISEW) report lays out how Scotland scored 2.08 in 2018, a drop of 0.5 since 2006. It ranks number 21 in a list topped by Switzerland (3.38), Norway (2.01) and Japan (3.00). Greece finished last in the ranking, as it was given a score of 0.66, below Hungary (0.88) and Slovakia (0.92). The average life expectancy, which stands at 79 years, was noted as Scotland’s weakest area of performance.
A new report has shown the wellbeing of Scots is now on par with Slovenia
Nicola Sturgeon has repeatedly called for another Scottish independence referendum
Economist John McLaren of the Scottish Trends website produced the report. He pointed to a lack of accountability in Holyrood as the reason for the decline in the policy. He wrote: “There is a lack of being held to account over policy decisions, in other words too little scrutiny and proper evaluation of the actions of the Scottish government. “This is down to a variety of shortcomings, including a weak committee system in the parliament, a lack of academic involvement, a dearth of think tanks, poorly funded political parties and a declining and underfunded media presence.” READ MORE: SNP MP brutally shut down by Andrea Leadsom against Brexit pessimism
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Economist John McLaren said poorly-funded opposition parties were to blame for a lack of competition in Holyrood
He also argued that badly-funded opposition parties in the Scottish parliament in Edinburgh had meant a lack of competition for Ms Sturgeon’s Scottish National Party (SNP). Mr McLaren explained: “Outside of the SNP, Scotland’s political parties are either small operations or in effect branch operations of UK parties and in both cases poorly funded. “This has inhibited the development of alternative policy ideas and led to a lack of political competition, as their operations are relatively ineffectual in challenging the well-funded and civil service-supported (in technical terms), SNP-led government.” DON'T MISS
Nicola Sturgeon: Gordon Brown argues there is 'no case' for indy ref [INSIGHT]
SNP's independence bid could trigger Greece-style economic collapse [ANALYSIS]
Polling guru John Curtice shocks Nicola Sturgeon with independence [SHOCK]
Nicola Sturgeon speaks at an event on Monday to announce further funding for the 'Stay in Scotland' campaign
SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon has been blamed for the fall in Scots' wellbeing
MSP and former leader of the Scottish Conservatives Ruth Davidson responded to the report by slamming the Government for a recent debate on the flying of an EU flag outside Holyrood. She tweeted: “Underperformance in health, education, life expectancy and a clutch of other areas. “Yet last week’s big, synthetic fight from the Scottish government was not on how to improve these failings, but on which squares of cloth flap out the front of Holyrood.” Managers of the Scottish parliament have said the EU flag will be removed from outside Holyrood when the UK leaves the bloc on January 31.
Nicola Sturgeon's formal request for another indyref was slapped down by Boris Johnson
Conservative MP for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine, Andrew Bowie, blamed the SNP for the poor performance. He said: “Scotland can and must do better than this. Under the SNP, we’ve fallen behind in almost every key area. “We must end this downward spiral. Let’s stop the constitutional grievance and actually get on making Scotland a better place to live, work and invest.” Meanwhile, Ms Sturgeon clashed with Boris Johnson last week after he slapped down her formal request for another indyref.
Former Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson slammed the SNP after the report was published
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-01-23--Brexit finish line: What happens next as Boris Johnson’s Brexit deal clears major hurdle?

On Wednesday , Parliament overwhelmingly passed the Government ’ s Brexit Bill , paving the way for the UK to @ @ @ @ @ 31 .
The bill is now just one step away from becoming law .
So @ @ @ @ @ the Brexit Bill is awaiting royal assent , which is when the Queen formally agrees @ @ @ @ @ an Act of Parliament .
There is no set time period for this to be @ @ @ @ @ usually considered a formality once a bill has been approved by Parliament .
The EU @ @ @ @ @ then expected to sign the agreement in the coming days , while MEPs will vote @ @ @ @ @ READ MORE : Brexit LIVE : Sorry Boris , this is on OUR terms !
@ @ @

Brexit: Johnson ‘absolutely confident’ of EU free trade deal
On Wednesday, Parliament overwhelmingly passed the Government’s Brexit Bill, paving the way for the UK to leave the EU on January 31. The bill is now just one step away from becoming law.
So what next? Now, the Brexit Bill is awaiting royal assent, which is when the Queen formally agrees to make the bill into an Act of Parliament. There is no set time period for this to be completed, but it is usually considered a formality once a bill has been approved by Parliament. The EU’s top officials are then expected to sign the agreement in the coming days, while MEPs will vote on it next week. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: Sorry Boris, this is on OUR terms! EU warns UK
Brexit news: Boris Johnson said the UK has now “crossed the Brexit finish line”
Brexit news: Johnson in Parliament on Wednesday
READ MORE EU chief says Brexit trade deal WON’T be completed this year The European Parliament will then meet on January 29 to debate the agreement, but the ratification of the deal is now expected to prove a formality. The UK will then officially leave the EU at 11pm GMT on Friday, January 31. From February 1, the UK will enter into an 11-month transition period in which current rules and regulation will remain in place, but no UK representatives will hold seats in EU institutions. This transition period will end on January 1, 2021, by which stage both the UK and EU hope to have completed negotiations on the future economic and security relationship between the two.
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Brexit news: Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn addresses the House on Wednesday
READ MORE Robert Peston taunts Arlene Foster over 'bad' Northern Ireland deal However, there is still a lot of work to be done, and time is short. The first priority will be to negotiate an ambitious free trade deal with the EU. The UK wants as much access as possible for its goods and services to the EU, but the Government has made clear that the UK must leave the customs union and single market and end the overall jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice. The EU could take weeks to agree a formal negotiating mandate - all the remaining 27 member states and the European Parliament have to be in agreement - meaning formal talks might only begin in March.
Brexit news: Protests continue outside the Houses of Parliament in London
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-01-23--Brexit bill: When is Brexit happening? Has the Brexit bill passed through House of Lords?

Yesterday Britain ’ s exit from the EU appeared more certain than ever following significant developments in Parliament .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the nation would “ move forwards as one United Kingdom ” , proudly declaring Britain had crossed the “ Brexit finish line ” .
David Davis exposes why EU will give the UK the best Brexit trade deal On Wednesday evening , the prime minister said : “ At times it felt like we would never cross the Brexit finish line , but we ’ ve done it .
“ Now we can put the rancour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behind us and focus on delivering a bright , exciting future - with better hospitals and schools , safer streets and opportunity spread to every corner of our country.
” Since Britain voted to leave the EU in 2016 , there have been multiple attempts by the Government to negotiate a withdrawal deal with Brussels .
But now , with the exception of a few small hurdles left to jump , Mr Johnson ’ s Brexit deal looks as though it will smoothly transition into law by the deadline of January 31 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' over support for Keir Starmer

Brexit: House of Lords back Withdrawal Agreement Bill
Yesterday Britain’s exit from the EU appeared more certain than ever following significant developments in Parliament. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the nation would “move forwards as one United Kingdom”, proudly declaring Britain had crossed the “Brexit finish line”.
On Wednesday evening, the prime minister said: “At times it felt like we would never cross the Brexit finish line, but we’ve done it. “Now we can put the rancour and division of the past three years behind us and focus on delivering a bright, exciting future - with better hospitals and schools, safer streets and opportunity spread to every corner of our country.” Since Britain voted to leave the EU in 2016, there have been multiple attempts by the Government to negotiate a withdrawal deal with Brussels. But now, with the exception of a few small hurdles left to jump, Mr Johnson’s Brexit deal looks as though it will smoothly transition into law by the deadline of January 31. READ MORE: Labour voters branded 'crazy' over support for Keir Starmer
Brexit bill: When is Brexit happening? Has the Brexit bill passed through House of Lords?
Brexit bill: The House of Lords debating the EU Withdrawal Agreement
READ MORE Brexit LIVE: Sorry Boris, this is on OUR terms! EU warns UK Has the Brexit bill passed through the House of Lords? Mr Johnson’s Brexit legislation was passed by a strong majority of MPs just before Christmas 2019. The bill then passed to the House of Lords, where it faced many stages of debates and amendments. The legislation passed back and forth between the two Houses, with MPs in the Commons deciding to reverse five changes the House of Lords had tried to implement.
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Brexit bill: Boris Johnson said Britain had crossed the 'Brexit finish line' on Wednesday
Brexit bill: The House of Lords proposed a number of amendments to the Withdrawal Agreement
The Lords had tried to ensure EU workers would have physical proof of their right to remain in the UK post-Brexit. The House had also tried to pass an amendment which would ensure the rights of unaccompanied child refugees, and their rights to be reunited with their parents. However all amendments were reversed by strong majorities in the Commons. Despite this, the House of Lords decided to settle on the deal, leaving only two stages for the bill to officially become law. DON'T MISS: Furious EU issues ultimatum to Boris Johnson and UK amid row [INSIGHT]
EU set to rubber-stamp deal as Queen signs it into UK law [ANALYSIS]
The House of Lords is anti-democratic and has no place in democracy [COMMENT]
READ MORE Jacob Rees-Mogg's brutal university nickname exposed When is Brexit happening? There are still some hurdles left to jump before Britain can leave the EU on January 31. Now the Withdrawal Agreement Bill has passed through all parliamentary stages, all that is left is for the bill to be written into law. In order for this to happen, the Queen needs to formally grant the bill Royal Assent.
Brexit bill: All that is left is for the Queen to grant the legislation Royal Assent
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thedailyexpress--2020-01-23--John Bercow's peerage hopes plunged into crisis after new bullying claims

Lord Lisvane , who was Clerk of the House , has handed a dossier of allegations to the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards .
It comes as the ex-Commons speaker , who sparked controversy over his Brexit interventions , is reportedly being lined up for a peerage by outgoing Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn after being snubbed by Boris Johnson .
The document , reported by The Times , claimed Mr Bercow bullied and humiliated staff , including using inappropriate language .
It is the latest in a series of accusations by members of staff of bullying against the former speaker , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who stepped down last October , dismissed the claims and branded the timing “ curious ” .
He said : “ During the five years that we worked together , Lord Lisvane had ample opportunity to raise any accusations of bullying with me .
“ At no stage did he do so , even though he became Clerk of the House - the most senior official .
“ The timing of this intervention is curious.
” It comes as Mr Corbyn is said to have nominated the former speaker , who was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ peerage .
READ MORE : 'Disgusted !
’ Britons furious at Corbyn ’ s plot to get Bercow in Lords Labour has not denied reports Mr Bercow was included in the list of nominees drawn up by Mr Corbyn .
But the move could be blocked by the Prime Minister .
His official spokesman said : “ It is a long-standing convention that leaders of the opposition can nominate individuals representing their party for peerages.
” DO N'T MISS BBC 's Marr slams Corbyn 's 'cheeky ' peerage decision as Brexiteer snub [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Boris Johnson [ INSIGHT ] Angry voters savage Bercow for 'ABUSED power ' and warn against peerage [ VIDEO ] When asked for his view on Mr Bercow being nominated for a peerage by Labour , Tory Party Chairman James Cleverly said : “ I ’ m going to fall back on convention here and by convention we don ’ t discuss the peerages and nominations before the event .
“ The simple fact of the matter is the nominations process , there ’ s always a lot of speculation , there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it actually comes out we won ’ t know exactly who has been put forward and your viewers are very well informed and they can speculate all on their own .

John Bercow peerage 'not a good idea' says former Black Rod
Lord Lisvane, who was Clerk of the House, has handed a dossier of allegations to the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards. It comes as the ex-Commons speaker, who sparked controversy over his Brexit interventions, is reportedly being lined up for a peerage by outgoing Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn after being snubbed by Boris Johnson.
The document, reported by The Times, claimed Mr Bercow bullied and humiliated staff, including using inappropriate language. It is the latest in a series of accusations by members of staff of bullying against the former speaker, which he has denied. Mr Bercow, who stepped down last October, dismissed the claims and branded the timing “curious”. He said: “During the five years that we worked together, Lord Lisvane had ample opportunity to raise any accusations of bullying with me.
John Bercow has been accused of bullying in a dossier filed by his most senior former official
Lord Lisvane, who was Clerk of the House, has handed a dossier of allegations to the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards
“At no stage did he do so, even though he became Clerk of the House - the most senior official. “The timing of this intervention is curious.” It comes as Mr Corbyn is said to have nominated the former speaker, who was previously a Tory MP, for a peerage. READ MORE: 'Disgusted!’ Britons furious at Corbyn’s plot to get Bercow in Lords
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Jeremy Corbyn is reportedly lining up the former speaker for a peerage after he was snubbed by Boris Johnson
Mr Bercow sparked controversy over his Brexit interventions
When asked for his view on Mr Bercow being nominated for a peerage by Labour, Tory Party Chairman James Cleverly said: “I’m going to fall back on convention here and by convention we don’t discuss the peerages and nominations before the event. “He’s a very experienced politician. “The simple fact of the matter is the nominations process, there’s always a lot of speculation, there’s always good fun, until it actually comes out we won’t know exactly who has been put forward and your viewers are very well informed and they can speculate all on their own.
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thedailyexpress--2020-01-23--Brexit trade deal row explodes: Furious US threatens UK unless Boris scraps tax plans

Washington immediately hit back by warning that it will impose tariffs on UK car manufacturers unless the plan is ditched .
In an escalation of tensions US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said Donald Trump will personally heap pressure on Boris Johnson to drop the proposed levy .
But Chancellor Sajid Javid insisted it will go ahead as planned in April .
France has already agreed to delay their plans to introduce a similar tax after Washington threatened to introduce a levy against the French cheese and champagne sectors .
Mr Javid said the digital services tax will be a temporary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place on how to deal with big online companies .
“ I think everyone agrees the pace of change in the last ten or twenty years has been unprecedented and there has been , therefore , a sort of disconnect between where the customers are based for these businesses and where the profits are generated , ” he said during a discussion at the World Economic Forum in Davos , Switzerland .
The proposals will see digital firms hit with a two percent levy on revenues made from UK consumers , but the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to “ fall away ” once an international agreement had been brokered .
“ We plan to go ahead with our digital services tax in April .
It is important , as we said at the time when we first legislated for it , that it is a proportionate tax , ” he added .
“ It is a tax that is deliberately designed as a temporary tax so it will fall away when there is an international solution.
” But his comments provoked criticism from US Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saying the proposals were “ discriminatory ” against American companies .
“ I think we have been pretty clear that we think the digital tax is discriminatory in nature , ” he said .
“ There is an OECD process that we are participating in .
“ International tax issues are very complicated , they take a long time to look at , and if people want to just arbitrarily put taxes on our digital industries we will consider putting arbitrary taxes on their car companies.
” Several governments are considering levies to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ firms pay tax where they are used , rather than just where there headquarters are based .
Google has come under fire previously for shifting profits to Bermuda to reduce its foreign tax bill .
The Prime Minister ’ s official spokesman said yesterday ( Wed ) : “ We are fully engaged in international discussions to address the challenges digitalisation poses for tax .
“ Our strong preference is for an appropriate global solution .
It is taking too long to address this issue at an international level and so we will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in April in the absence of a global solution.
” He added : “ It is worth saying that the Digital Services Tax is a targeted , proportionate and temporary tax .
It will ensure large digital businesses pay their fare share towards supporting our public services.
” The risk of a tit-for-tat trade war with the US could prove a major stumbling block for Boris Johnson ’ s ambitions to quickly negotiate a trade deal with the country after the UK exits the EU later this month .
But Mr Mnuchin said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worked out as he vowed to have “ private conversations ” with his UK counterpart .
The prospect of a trade war with the US is likely to spark major concerns in the UK 's manufacturing sector .
Mr Trump has previously not hesitated in taking action against countries he believes are treating the US unfairly on trade .
A dispute with China now appears to be cooling but Mr Trump is still displeased with US relations with the EU .
Britain and the US are set to start thrashing out a blockbuster @ @ @ @ @ @ @ source said a planned US visit by the Prime Minister to hold trade talks with President Trump at the White House previously expected next month was now likely to go ahead in March .

Brexit: Sajid Javid discusses UK’s digital services tax plan
Washington immediately hit back by warning that it will impose tariffs on UK car manufacturers unless the plan is ditched. In an escalation of tensions US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said Donald Trump will personally heap pressure on Boris Johnson to drop the proposed levy. But Chancellor Sajid Javid insisted it will go ahead as planned in April.
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France has already agreed to delay their plans to introduce a similar tax after Washington threatened to introduce a levy against the French cheese and champagne sectors. Mr Javid said the digital services tax will be a temporary measure until an international agreement is in place on how to deal with big online companies. “I think everyone agrees the pace of change in the last ten or twenty years has been unprecedented and there has been, therefore, a sort of disconnect between where the customers are based for these businesses and where the profits are generated,” he said during a discussion at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. The proposals will see digital firms hit with a two percent levy on revenues made from UK consumers, but the Chancellor said the plans had been designed to “fall away” once an international agreement had been brokered. “We plan to go ahead with our digital services tax in April. It is important, as we said at the time when we first legislated for it, that it is a proportionate tax,” he added. “It is a tax that is deliberately designed as a temporary tax so it will fall away when there is an international solution.”
Furious US threatens UK unless Boris scraps tax plans
Chancellor Sajid Javid
But his comments provoked criticism from US Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin, who joined Mr Javid on the panel, saying the proposals were “discriminatory” against American companies. “I think we have been pretty clear that we think the digital tax is discriminatory in nature,” he said. “There is an OECD process that we are participating in. “International tax issues are very complicated, they take a long time to look at, and if people want to just arbitrarily put taxes on our digital industries we will consider putting arbitrary taxes on their car companies.” Several governments are considering levies to ensure the world’s largest digital firms pay tax where they are used, rather than just where there headquarters are based. Google has come under fire previously for shifting profits to Bermuda to reduce its foreign tax bill. The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said yesterday (Wed): “We are fully engaged in international discussions to address the challenges digitalisation poses for tax. “Our strong preference is for an appropriate global solution. It is taking too long to address this issue at an international level and so we will continue to address our Digital Services Tax in April in the absence of a global solution.”
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Britain and the US are set to start thrashing out a trade-deal from next month


thedailyexpress--2020-01-23--Boris Johnson secures Brexit! EU set to rubber-stamp deal as Queen signs it into UK law

After years of Westminster wrangling , the Prime Minister ’ s EU Withdrawal Agreement Bill is expected to be enshrined in law by gaining the Royal Assent on Thursday .
MPs on Wednesday rejected five last-ditch amendments to the legislation made by the House of Lords .
And peers shied away from a constitutional clash by accepting the verdict of the Commons and dropping the amendments .
Their climbdown meant the Prime Minister ’ s deal with Brussels was formally ratified and the UK ’ s departure from the EU a week today is set to become law .
Hailing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over Brexit , the Prime Minister said : “ Parliament has passed the Withdrawal Agreement Bill , meaning we will leave the EU on 31 January and move forward as one United Kingdom .
“ At times it felt like we would never cross the Brexit finish line , but we ’ ve done it .
“ Now we can put the rancour and division of the past three years behind us and focus on delivering a bright , exciting future – with better hospitals and schools , safer streets and opportunity spread @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Johnson is expected to finalise the ratification process with EU chiefs before personally signing the historic Withdrawal Agreement .
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel are expected to sign the deal in Brussels on Friday while the Prime Minister will add his signature in the coming days .
The European Parliament is set to rubber stamp the deal next Wednesday .
Once the legal process has been completed , Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab and EU chiefs will sign an “ instrument of ratification ” that will be deposited @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into international law in time for the country ’ s departure from the bloc at 11pm on 31 January .
A Number 10 source said : “ The British people have waited more than three years to get Brexit done .
“ Passing the Withdrawal Agreement allows us to do this in an orderly way on January 31 and the whole UK to move forward to a partnership with the EU based on an ambitious free trade agreement with no alignment.
” Peace was declared in the long parliamentary war over Brexit at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of motions accepting the Commons decision earlier on Wednesday to reject their amendments to the EU Withdrawal Bill .
Silence greeted a call for those who were “ not content ” with the motions to make their opposition heard .
The decision spared Parliament a bout of “ ping pong ” with the legislation being scuttled back and forth between the two chambers in a stand-off over the amendments .
Speaking in the upper chamber , Brexit minister Lord Callanan said : `` We are at the end of what seems like a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of this Bill represent something which many of us thought might never happen - Parliament passing the legislation necessary to implement a Brexit deal and to finally deliver on the 2016 referendum . ''
Brexit deal and to finally deliver on the 2016 referendum . ''
He added : `` I know many on the benches opposite are disappointed that the Commons has chosen to disagree with all of the amendments that peers passed this week .
`` I would , however , like to reassure peers that their expertise , their contributions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after Brexit .
`` Following our exit , this House will see more legislation on a range of topics connected to the departure from the European Union .
In some cases , it will be the first time in decades that the UK has legislated on some of these matters . ''
Earlier , MPs had rejected five changes made by the Lords to the legislation including a clause proposed by the Labour peer Lord Dubs providing extra guarantees for the protection of child refugees .
Peers had also defeated the Government on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the UK to have physical proof of their right to remain and the power of courts to depart from European Court of Justice rulings .
They also backed a proposal underlining a commitment that the UK Parliament `` will not normally '' legislate for devolved matters without the consent of the devolved legislature affected .
All five amendments were comfortably reversed by MPs , with majorities ranging from 86 to 103 on Wednesday .
During the Commons debate on the amendments on Wednesday , Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay said the Government could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' rights as it would make the EU Settlement Scheme `` null and void '' .
Mr Barclay said : `` This amendment would mean the successful EU Settlement Scheme in its current form would need to be abandoned .
This is because there would be no need to register if people could later rely on a declaration that they were already in the UK .
`` This would make null and void the 2.8 million applications and the 2.5 million grants of status which have already been completed . ''
Mr Barclay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government would be unable to issue `` more secure '' digital documentation without physical documentation , adding : `` This would increase the risk of fraud and raises the issue of cost to the Government and citizens . ''
On child refugees , Mr Barclay defended the Government 's record before claiming : `` Primary legislation can not deliver the best outcomes for these children as it can not guarantee that we reach an agreement and that is why this is ultimately a matter which must be negotiated with the EU and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possible outcome in those negotiations . ''
Labour MP Yvette Cooper said : `` That is what makes us all suspicious , that he wants to remove it because there 's some reason why he thinks it will restrict what he wants to do and therefore that he 's going to , in the end , betray the commitments that have been made to the most vulnerable children of all . ''
Shadow Brexit minister Thangam Debbonaire also said : `` The Government 's predecessor government has got form on this , promising @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scheme , as originally committed to , and taking fewer than 500 in the end . ''

Brexit: Boris Johnson’s deal is a ‘vast improvement’ says MP
After years of Westminster wrangling, the Prime Minister’s EU Withdrawal Agreement Bill is expected to be enshrined in law by gaining the Royal Assent on Thursday. MPs on Wednesday rejected five last-ditch amendments to the legislation made by the House of Lords. And peers shied away from a constitutional clash by accepting the verdict of the Commons and dropping the amendments.
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Their climbdown meant the Prime Minister’s deal with Brussels was formally ratified and the UK’s departure from the EU a week today is set to become law. Hailing the end of the long Westminster war over Brexit, the Prime Minister said: “Parliament has passed the Withdrawal Agreement Bill, meaning we will leave the EU on 31 January and move forward as one United Kingdom. “At times it felt like we would never cross the Brexit finish line, but we’ve done it. “Now we can put the rancour and division of the past three years behind us and focus on delivering a bright, exciting future – with better hospitals and schools, safer streets and opportunity spread to every corner of our country.” Mr Johnson is expected to finalise the ratification process with EU chiefs before personally signing the historic Withdrawal Agreement. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel are expected to sign the deal in Brussels on Friday while the Prime Minister will add his signature in the coming days. The European Parliament is set to rubber stamp the deal next Wednesday.
Tonight peers accepted the verdict of the Commons
EU set to rubber-stamp deal as Queen signs it into UK law
Once the legal process has been completed, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab and EU chiefs will sign an “instrument of ratification” that will be deposited in Brussels to turn the Brexit deal into international law in time for the country’s departure from the bloc at 11pm on 31 January. A Number 10 source said: “The British people have waited more than three years to get Brexit done. “Passing the Withdrawal Agreement allows us to do this in an orderly way on January 31 and the whole UK to move forward to a partnership with the EU based on an ambitious free trade agreement with no alignment.” Peace was declared in the long parliamentary war over Brexit at 6.20pm when the Lords backed a series of motions accepting the Commons decision earlier on Wednesday to reject their amendments to the EU Withdrawal Bill. Silence greeted a call for those who were “not content” with the motions to make their opposition heard. The decision spared Parliament a bout of “ping pong” with the legislation being scuttled back and forth between the two chambers in a stand-off over the amendments. Speaking in the upper chamber, Brexit minister Lord Callanan said: "We are at the end of what seems like a very long road. The final stages of this Bill represent something which many of us thought might never happen - Parliament passing the legislation necessary to implement a Brexit deal and to finally deliver on the 2016 referendum."
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Lord Callanan
Brexit deal and to finally deliver on the 2016 referendum." He added: "I know many on the benches opposite are disappointed that the Commons has chosen to disagree with all of the amendments that peers passed this week. "I would, however, like to reassure peers that their expertise, their contributions will continue to play a valuable role after Brexit. "Following our exit, this House will see more legislation on a range of topics connected to the departure from the European Union. In some cases, it will be the first time in decades that the UK has legislated on some of these matters." Earlier, MPs had rejected five changes made by the Lords to the legislation including a clause proposed by the Labour peer Lord Dubs providing extra guarantees for the protection of child refugees. Peers had also defeated the Government on the rights of EU workers legally residing in the UK to have physical proof of their right to remain and the power of courts to depart from European Court of Justice rulings. They also backed a proposal underlining a commitment that the UK Parliament "will not normally" legislate for devolved matters without the consent of the devolved legislature affected. All five amendments were comfortably reversed by MPs, with majorities ranging from 86 to 103 on Wednesday.
Lord Alf Dubs


thedailyexpress--2020-01-23--Boris plans to give tax cuts to millions as he vows to help those at 'breaking point'

In a live online question-and-answer session , the Prime Minister acknowledged that taxes needed to be reduced to help lower-income households “ at breaking point ” .
He insisted the Treasury should cut levies on the low paid whenever possible .
“ Where you have the ability to cut taxes , I want to do it to help working people on lower incomes , ” he said .
Mr Johnson ’ s dropped the hint during a “ People ’ s PMQs ” session broadcast from Downing Street on Facebook .
It comes ahead of Sajid Javid ’ s spring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MPs expect the Chancellor to take advantage of low borrowing costs to loosen the Treasury ’ s purse strings .
Responding to a question from one view calling for “ lower tax for working people instead of taxing them to breaking point ” , the Prime Minister said : “ He ’ s right .
One of the things we are already doing that has already been announced is we ’ re cutting National Insurance contributions for everybody .
“ That will disproportionately benefit people on lower incomes and that ’ s the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he wanted to reduce taxes for lower-income workers , he said : “ What we ’ re also doing is lifting the Living Wage by the biggest ever amount .
That will mean that people earning the Living Wage will see another £930 immediately , almost £1,000 a year more.
” He added : “ I believe strongly in helping people on low incomes , making sure they are properly paid .
We want to move to a high-wage , high-skill economy uniting and levelling up across the whole of the UK .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ this Government - it ’ s a big social mission .
There is massive talent across the whole of the UK , it ’ s not all being given the chances it needs.
” Mr Johnson also indicated that the Government could take advantage of escaping EU tax rules after Brexit to scrap the current 5 % VAT charged on sanitary products .
“ I don ’ t want to anticipate the fiscal measures of the next Budget .
The Chancellor will be making all sorts of calculations and it will be a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can say is I really do appreciate the importance of keeping the price of sanitary products low , ” he said .
“ One thing we can do as we leave the EU is cut VAT on sanitary products without worrying what Brussels says .
That is one of many opportunities that flow from Brexit.
” Mr Johnson also hailed his Government ’ s cash boost for the health service .
“ We ’ re giving record sums to the NHS , the biggest ever cash boost to the NHS , £34billion and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continue to invest at record levels in the NHS , ” he said .
“ I accept there are problems in the NHS ; yes , I accept that waiting times in A & E are unacceptable .
We will deal with them and we are absolutely determined to fund the NHS properly .
“ The NHS is one of the greatest assets of this country , if not the single greatest asset .
We mean to protect it and fund it properly.
” Mr Johnson told the webchat he was “ full @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a trade deal with the EU .
“ I think it is massively in the interests of both sides of the channel to have a wonderful zero-tariff , zero-quota , all-singing , all-dancing FTA [ Free Trade Agreement ] .
“ I ’ m absolutely confident we can do that .
We ’ re in the very happy position that we leave the EU in a state of absolute grace and uniformity , we ’ re in perfect alignment with our EU friends and partners , ” he said .
“ We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ high standards in the UK and around the world .
I believe that will be a good basis for us to do a fantastic free trade deal and for us to come out and get on with our priorities.
” He added : “ We will take back control of our fishing waters , we will ensure that we become an independent coastal state once again having full jurisdiction over our 200-mile limit of our spectacular maritime wealth and we will make sure we don ’ t trade away Britain ’ s fishing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the accession negotiations in the early 1970s.
” But he was stumped by one questioner who asked him what brand of shampoo he uses .
“ I honestly don ’ t know what shampoo I use , it ’ s the same stuff I use for all cleaning purposes , that ’ s all I know .
It ’ s blue and it comes in a tube , ” the Prime Minister said .
Referring to the packaging , he added : “ It is plastic , we ’ ve got to reduce @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We have other plans to do that .
”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson
In a live online question-and-answer session, the Prime Minister acknowledged that taxes needed to be reduced to help lower-income households “at breaking point”. He insisted the Treasury should cut levies on the low paid whenever possible. “Where you have the ability to cut taxes, I want to do it to help working people on lower incomes,” he said.
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Mr Johnson’s dropped the hint during a “People’s PMQs” session broadcast from Downing Street on Facebook. It comes ahead of Sajid Javid’s spring Budget scheduled for March 11. Tory MPs expect the Chancellor to take advantage of low borrowing costs to loosen the Treasury’s purse strings. Responding to a question from one view calling for “lower tax for working people instead of taxing them to breaking point”, the Prime Minister said: “He’s right. One of the things we are already doing that has already been announced is we’re cutting National Insurance contributions for everybody. “That will disproportionately benefit people on lower incomes and that’s the way we should do it.” Insisting he wanted to reduce taxes for lower-income workers, he said: “What we’re also doing is lifting the Living Wage by the biggest ever amount. That will mean that people earning the Living Wage will see another £930 immediately, almost £1,000 a year more.” He added: “I believe strongly in helping people on low incomes, making sure they are properly paid. We want to move to a high-wage, high-skill economy uniting and levelling up across the whole of the UK.
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Sajid Javid
“That’s the objective of this Government - it’s a big social mission. There is massive talent across the whole of the UK, it’s not all being given the chances it needs.” Mr Johnson also indicated that the Government could take advantage of escaping EU tax rules after Brexit to scrap the current 5% VAT charged on sanitary products. “I don’t want to anticipate the fiscal measures of the next Budget. The Chancellor will be making all sorts of calculations and it will be a very exciting Budget. “What I can say is I really do appreciate the importance of keeping the price of sanitary products low,” he said. “One thing we can do as we leave the EU is cut VAT on sanitary products without worrying what Brussels says. That is one of many opportunities that flow from Brexit.” Mr Johnson also hailed his Government’s cash boost for the health service. “We’re giving record sums to the NHS, the biggest ever cash boost to the NHS, £34billion and we’re legislating to ensure we continue to invest at record levels in the NHS,” he said. “I accept there are problems in the NHS; yes, I accept that waiting times in A&E are unacceptable. We will deal with them and we are absolutely determined to fund the NHS properly. “The NHS is one of the greatest assets of this country, if not the single greatest asset. We mean to protect it and fund it properly.”
The Prime Minister labelled the NHS as one of the greatest assets of the UK
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thedailyexpress--2020-01-23--Brexit: Did Wales vote for Brexit? Did Scotland and Northern Ireland?

The Welsh Assembly joined both the Scottish Parliament and Northern Ireland Assembly in rejecting the Withdrawal Agreement Bill this week @ @ @ @ @ Assembly ’ s rejection means all three of the UK ’ s devolved bodies have @ @ @ @ @ legislation .
EU set to rubber-stamp deal as Queen signs it into UK law Welsh @ @ @ @ @ Assembly Members earlier this week : “ Brexit is going to happen .
That is @ @ @ @ @ : “ A mandate for Brexit is not a mandate for bad legislation.
” In @ @ @ @ @ Fein and the DUP have opposed the terms of Boris Johnson ’ s Withdrawal Agreement @ @ @ @ @ Scotland ’ s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has been vocal about her party ’ s @ @ @ @ @ READ MORE : Boris Johnson can rule out Indyref2 FOREVER with bold Brexit move

The Welsh Assembly joined both the Scottish Parliament and Northern Ireland Assembly in rejecting the Withdrawal Agreement Bill this week. Significantly, the Welsh Assembly’s rejection means all three of the UK’s devolved bodies have now voted against the Brexit legislation.
Furious EU issues horror ultimatum to Boris Johnson and UK amid row
EU set to rubber-stamp deal as Queen signs it into UK law
Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford told Assembly Members earlier this week: “Brexit is going to happen. That is a fact.”
He added: “A mandate for Brexit is not a mandate for bad legislation.”
In Northern Ireland, both Sinn Fein and the DUP have opposed the terms of Boris Johnson’s Withdrawal Agreement for different reasons.
And Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has been vocal about her party’s disapproval of the agreement.
READ MORE: Boris Johnson can rule out Indyref2 FOREVER with bold Brexit move


thedailyexpress--2020-01-22--Brexit under way: House of Lords BACKS DOWN after stand-off with Boris Johnson over Bill

The House of Lords has opted to end its legislative tussle with the Commons , as peers vote in favour @ @ @ @ @ Brexit Bill .
The unelected peers bowed to the will of the Commons after MPs @ @ @ @ @ divorce deal .
The Bill now goes forward for Royal Assent .
The Queen is @ @ @ @ @ Bill tomorrow .
Speaking in the upper chamber , Brexit minister Lord Callanan said : @ @ @ @ @ end of what seems like a very long road .
The final stages of this @ @ @ @ @ of us thought might never happen - Parliament passing the legislation necessary to implement a @ @ @ @ @ deliver on the 2016 referendum . ''
He added : `` I know many on @ @ @ @ @ that the Commons has chosen to disagree with all of the amendments that peers passed @ @ @ @ @ would , however , like to reassure peers that their expertise , their contributions will @ @ @ @ @ role after Brexit .

Brexit: House of Lords back Withdrawal Agreement Bill
The House of Lords has opted to end its legislative tussle with the Commons, as peers vote in favour of passing Boris Johnson's Brexit Bill. The unelected peers bowed to the will of the Commons after MPs overturned five amendments to the divorce deal. The Bill now goes forward for Royal Assent.
The House of Lords has passed the Brexit Bill
The Queen is expected to formally approve the Bill tomorrow. Speaking in the upper chamber, Brexit minister Lord Callanan said: "We are at the end of what seems like a very long road. The final stages of this Bill represent something which many of us thought might never happen - Parliament passing the legislation necessary to implement a Brexit deal and to finally deliver on the 2016 referendum." He added: "I know many on the benches opposite are disappointed that the Commons has chosen to disagree with all of the amendments that peers passed this week. "I would, however, like to reassure peers that their expertise, their contributions will continue to play a valuable role after Brexit.
The House of Lords has backed the Brexit Bill
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"Following our exit, this House will see more legislation on a range of topics connected to the departure from the European Union. In some cases, it will be the first time in decades that the UK has legislated on some of these matters." The Prime Minister is expected to finalise the ratification process with EU chiefs before personally signing the historic Withdrawal Agreement. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel are expected to sign the deal in Brussels latwe this week while Mr Johnson will add his signature in the coming days. Brexit Party MEP Rupert Lowe has said today marks a "momentous day", after the Lords backed the Bill.
Passage of a Bill


thedailyexpress--2020-01-22--Boris Johnson RIPS UP Lords' amendments as he commands MPs to hit back at Brexit saboteurs

MPs have voted down a series of House of Lords amendments to Boris Johnson 's Brexit legislation , in a clear warning to Brexit saboteurs in the upper chamber .
Peers put forward five changes to the Withdrawal Agreement , but MPs were urged to turn them down by the Prime Minister .
The Bill was sent back to the Lords for consideration , triggering the so-called `` ping-pong '' period between the two chambers , but peers decided to back the Bill - pushing it one step closer to becoming law .
Peers opted to end their legislative tussle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MPs threw out the upper chambers proposed amendmets to the Bill .
The five amendments voted down by the MPs include : guarenteeing family reunion rights for unaccompanied child refugees after EU withdrawal , allowing cases to be referred to the Supreme Court to decide whether to depart from EU case law and giving reassurance to Scotland and Wales on devolution powers .
The other two amendments shot down include a clause linked to the right of EU citizens lawfully residing in the UK after Brexit to have physical proof of their status @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of British courts to depart from European Court of Justice judgements .
All amendments were comfortably overturned by MPs , with majorities ranging from 86 to 103 .
The Prime Minister was able to command his MPs to vote down the amendments after securing a large majority in last month 's general election .
With Brexit day looming on January 31 , the Bill , which was passed with large majorities by MPs earlier this month , remains on course thanks to the Prime Minister 's 80-strong majority .
Now Lords have backed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the final parliamentary stage .
Brexit will officially bcome law when it receives Royal Assent from the Queen , which is expected to happen tomorrow .
Speaking in the upper chamber , Brexit minister Lord Callanan said : `` We are at the end of what seems like a very long road .
The final stages of this Bill represent something which many of us thought might never happen - Parliament passing the legislation necessary to implement a Brexit deal and to finally deliver on the 2016 referendum . ''
He added : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opposite are disappointed that the Commons has chosen to disagree with all of the amendments that peers passed this week .
`` I would , however , like to reassure peers that their expertise , their contributions will continue to play a valuable role after Brexit .
`` Following our exit , this House will see more legislation on a range of topics connected to the departure from the European Union .
In some cases , it will be the first time in decades that the UK has legislated on some of these @ @ @

Brexit: MPs vote down House of Lords WAB amendment
MPs have voted down a series of House of Lords amendments to Boris Johnson's Brexit legislation, in a clear warning to Brexit saboteurs in the upper chamber. Peers put forward five changes to the Withdrawal Agreement, but MPs were urged to turn them down by the Prime Minister. The Bill was sent back to the Lords for consideration, triggering the so-called "ping-pong" period between the two chambers, but peers decided to back the Bill - pushing it one step closer to becoming law.
Tory MPs have voted down a series of House of Lords amendments to the Brexit Bill
Peers opted to end their legislative tussle with the Commons, just hours after MPs threw out the upper chambers proposed amendmets to the Bill. The five amendments voted down by the MPs include:guarenteeing family reunion rights for unaccompanied child refugees after EU withdrawal, allowing cases to be referred to the Supreme Court to decide whether to depart from EU case law and giving reassurance to Scotland and Wales on devolution powers. The other two amendments shot down include a clause linked to the right of EU citizens lawfully residing in the UK after Brexit to have physical proof of their status and an amendment linked to the power of British courts to depart from European Court of Justice judgements. All amendments were comfortably overturned by MPs, with majorities ranging from 86 to 103.
Passage of a Bill through Parliament
The Prime Minister was able to command his MPs to vote down the amendments after securing a large majority in last month's general election. With Brexit day looming on January 31, the Bill, which was passed with large majorities by MPs earlier this month, remains on course thanks to the Prime Minister's 80-strong majority. Now Lords have backed the Bill, it now passes to the final parliamentary stage. Brexit will officially bcome law when it receives Royal Assent from the Queen, which is expected to happen tomorrow.
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Stephen Barclay said the Government could not accept the amendment on citizens' rights
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thedailyexpress--2020-01-24--Brexit countdown is on! US green lights ‘priority’ trade talks as Brexit enshrined in law

Mr Mnuchin , below , said a December 31 deal meant an “ aggressive timeline ” for the talks , but added : “ It ’ s an absolute priority of President Trump and we expect to complete that within this year.
” Mr Ross said a trade deal should not be difficult because the US and UK economies had more in common with each other than with the EU .
He said : “ Both are very heavily services-oriented and within services , such as financial services there ’ s already a pretty high degree of integration and coordination.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK fears of higher drug prices as US pharmaceutical giants look to gain concessions from the NHS .
He said : “ What we think is that drugs should have similar prices wherever they are , but I don ’ t believe we are in any position to tell the UK what they should pay for drugs.
” The Prime Minister ’ s spokesman said yesterday : “ Both sides have been clear in public that they want to agree an ambitious free trade agreement as quickly as possible .
“ Once we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over a week ’ s time , we will be free to start having discussions with countries around the world , including the US.
” Bernd Lange , below , the chairman of the European Parliament ’ s Trade Committee , also expressed hope a UK-EU deal could be achieved this year – and said UK-EU relations might be even better after Brexit .
Striking a very different tone from European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen last month , he told Radio 4 ’ s Today programme yesterday : “ It is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in this year.
” But Stefaan De Rynck , a senior adviser to EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier , was less optimistic , saying : “ There should be no misunderstanding of the fact that the next phase will be more complicated to negotiate than the Withdrawal Agreement.
” Accusing the UK of setting a “ rather short ” timeframe , he said : “ The construction of the text for the Withdrawal Agreement wasn ’ t always easy — but compared to the construction of the text for the future relationship @ @ @ @ @ @ @ different kinds of exercises .
“ The limitation of time must lead to some dose of realism on what can be achieved.
” Mr De Rynck also insisted the EU was poised to make a “ generous ” offer to Britain .
“ We are looking at a possibility of a relationship in the trade side where we will have zero tariffs and zero quotas between the EU and UK , ” he said .
“ And that is a pretty generous offer from the EU – I would say to consider that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 450 million people at the doorstep of the UK .
“ We need to stress this is not something that any other third country has .
That access can only come about insofar as there are sufficient guarantees for open and fair competition between the EU and the UK in the future relationship agreement.
” The Prime Minister ’ s spokesman said : “ The EU made a formal commitment to getting this completed by the end of 2020 and we expect that to happen .
“ We now approach the next stage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and there is no reason why we ca n't get a comprehensive deal with the EU which works for both sides by the end of 2020.
” Mr Evans interrupted a Commons debate yesterday to announced that the EU Withdrawal Act 2020 had been given Royal Assent .
The Prime Minister and EU chiefs Frau von der Leyen and Charles Michel are expected to sign the Withdrawal Agreement today to officially confirm Britain ’ s departure from the bloc next Friday .
In a possible sign of looming celebrations , several cases of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Street yesterday .

Brexit: Nigel Evans announces WAB has been given Royal assent
Deputy Commons Speaker Nigel Evans interrupted a debate at 2.30pm to announce the historic moment which clears the path to leaving the European Union at 11pm next Friday, January 31. The predictions by US treasury secretary Steven Mnuchin and commerce secretary Wilbur Ross follow Downing Street indications that Mr Johnson wants the transatlantic talks to run alongside trade negotiations with Brussels.
Mr Mnuchin, below, said a December 31 deal meant an “aggressive timeline” for the talks, but added: “It’s an absolute priority of President Trump and we expect to complete that within this year.” Mr Ross said a trade deal should not be difficult because the US and UK economies had more in common with each other than with the EU. He said: “Both are very heavily services-oriented and within services, such as financial services there’s already a pretty high degree of integration and coordination.” Mr Ross also sought to dampen UK fears of higher drug prices as US pharmaceutical giants look to gain concessions from the NHS. He said: “What we think is that drugs should have similar prices wherever they are, but I don’t believe we are in any position to tell the UK what they should pay for drugs.”
Boris Johnson and Donald Trump will strike a great trade deal
Steve Mnuchin greets Sajid Javid in London
The Prime Minister’s spokesman said yesterday: “Both sides have been clear in public that they want to agree an ambitious free trade agreement as quickly as possible. “Once we’ve left the EU in just over a week’s time, we will be free to start having discussions with countries around the world, including the US.” Bernd Lange, below, the chairman of the European Parliament’s Trade Committee, also expressed hope a UK-EU deal could be achieved this year – and said UK-EU relations might be even better after Brexit. Striking a very different tone from European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen last month, he told Radio 4’s Today programme yesterday: “It is possible to have a trade deal done in this year.”
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Bernd Lange, the chairman of the European Parliament’s Trade Committee
But Stefaan De Rynck, a senior adviser to EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier, was less optimistic, saying: “There should be no misunderstanding of the fact that the next phase will be more complicated to negotiate than the Withdrawal Agreement.” Accusing the UK of setting a “rather short” timeframe, he said: “The construction of the text for the Withdrawal Agreement wasn’t always easy — but compared to the construction of the text for the future relationship agreement, we are talking about two different kinds of exercises. “The limitation of time must lead to some dose of realism on what can be achieved.” Mr De Rynck also insisted the EU was poised to make a “generous” offer to Britain.
EU negotiator Michel Barnier
“We are looking at a possibility of a relationship in the trade side where we will have zero tariffs and zero quotas between the EU and UK,” he said. “And that is a pretty generous offer from the EU – I would say to consider that. Because this is a market of 450 million people at the doorstep of the UK. “We need to stress this is not something that any other third country has. That access can only come about insofar as there are sufficient guarantees for open and fair competition between the EU and the UK in the future relationship agreement.” The Prime Minister’s spokesman said: “The EU made a formal commitment to getting this completed by the end of 2020 and we expect that to happen.
“We now approach the next stage of this process in a friendly spirit and there is no reason why we can't get a comprehensive deal with the EU which works for both sides by the end of 2020.” Mr Evans interrupted a Commons debate yesterday to announced that the EU Withdrawal Act 2020 had been given Royal Assent. The Prime Minister and EU chiefs Frau von der Leyen and Charles Michel are expected to sign the Withdrawal Agreement today to officially confirm Britain’s departure from the bloc next Friday. In a possible sign of looming celebrations, several cases of English sparkling wine were delivered to Downing Street yesterday.


thedailyexpress--2020-01-24--Brussels' Brexit TERROR: How huge trade surplus gives UK 'massive' upper hand in talks

Sir Christopher Meyer , who served as the Ambassador to the United States from 1997-2003 , highlighted the UK has the upper hand over the EU in trade discussions going forward .
Tweeting about the issue , he said : “ Missing from so much analysis by Brussels ‘ insiders ’ is awareness that the EU ’ s £94billion trade surplus with the UK gives us a massive lever .
“ Brussels ’ blood-curdling noises today are a sure sign of the jitters .
“ Why , in 2021 , the EU could be hit by tariffs from both the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has excited Brexiteers , who are keen to demonstrate Britain ’ s potential for trade success .
Politicians who support the Leave argument , such as Jacob Rees-Mogg , have frequently stated that Britain has a large trade deficit with the European Union .
This means that the EU exports more to Britain than Britain sells to the European Union .
It was this concept which gave rise to the “ they need us more than we need them ” argument , which frequently arose during the Brexit referendum in 2016 .
According @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK had an overall trade deficit of minus £66billion with the European Union in 2018 .
A surplus of £28billion on trade in services was outweighed by a deficit of minus £94billion in goods .
READ MORE : David Davis exposes why EU will give the UK the best Brexit trade deal Sir Christopher ’ s suggestion that the EU could face tariffs from the US and the UK in the future has already appeared to materialise .
There has been significant tension between France ’ s president Emmanuel Macron , and US @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tax which France were looking to impose upon American digital giants .
Mr Trump threatened harsh retaliatory taxes of up to 100 percent on French goods such as Roquefort cheese , handbags and champagne if Mr Macron went ahead with his plans .
The trade cold war left world leaders on tenterhooks , as the future of trade between the European Union and the US was left hanging in the balance .
DO N'T MISS : Brexit : Theresa May 's shock 'you 'll be crushed ' threat to EU [ REVEALED ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ using Queen 's Flight 677 times [ SHOCK ] Angela Merkel demands Brussels develop 'STRONGER ' voice after Brexit [ INSIGHT ] French finance minister Bruno Le Maire threatened to trigger an all-out trade war with the United States if Mr Trump did not withdraw .
In a letter written to US trade representative Robert Lighthizer , Mr Le Maire stated : “ If the US were to decide to impose trade sanctions against the EU over the French digital services tax , it would deeply and durably damage the transatlantic relationship at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ united.
” Regarding Brexit trade discussions , significant economic consequences could fall upon the EU if the bloc fails to strike a deal with the UK .
A no deal Brexit could see the European Union and Britain trading based on rules laid out by the World Trade Organisation .
As a result , a substantial portion of the £94billion trade surplus figure mentioned by Sir Meyer , could be put at risk .
The so-called transition period of Britain leaving the European Union is due to expire at the end of 2020 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reached by both sides , Mr Johnson is expected to walk away from trade negotiations in their entirety .
Alternatively , some circles have suggested that a transition period could be extended in order to avoid an all out trade battle .
In the meantime , Britain is set to sit down to the table with the United States to thrash out a post-Brexit trade deal .

Brexit: Osborne says EU no longer has 'maximum leverage'
Sir Christopher Meyer, who served as the Ambassador to the United States from 1997-2003, highlighted the UK has the upper hand over the EU in trade discussions going forward. Tweeting about the issue, he said: “Missing from so much analysis by Brussels ‘insiders’ is awareness that the EU’s £94billion trade surplus with the UK gives us a massive lever. “Brussels’ blood-curdling noises today are a sure sign of the jitters.
“Why, in 2021, the EU could be hit by tariffs from both the US and the UK.” The prospect has excited Brexiteers, who are keen to demonstrate Britain’s potential for trade success. Politicians who support the Leave argument, such as Jacob Rees-Mogg, have frequently stated that Britain has a large trade deficit with the European Union. This means that the EU exports more to Britain than Britain sells to the European Union.
Sir Christopher Meyer stated that Brussels have 'the jitters'
He spoke of the £94bn EU trade surplus as a 'massive lever'
It was this concept which gave rise to the “they need us more than we need them” argument, which frequently arose during the Brexit referendum in 2016. According to the House of Commons, the UK had an overall trade deficit of minus £66billion with the European Union in 2018. A surplus of £28billion on trade in services was outweighed by a deficit of minus £94billion in goods. READ MORE: David Davis exposes why EU will give the UK the best Brexit trade deal
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Sir Christopher was the Ambassador to the US from 1997 until 2003
Sir Christopher’s suggestion that the EU could face tariffs from the US and the UK in the future has already appeared to materialise. There has been significant tension between France’s president Emmanuel Macron, and US president Donald Trump over a proposed digital tax which France were looking to impose upon American digital giants. Mr Trump threatened harsh retaliatory taxes of up to 100 percent on French goods such as Roquefort cheese, handbags and champagne if Mr Macron went ahead with his plans. The trade cold war left world leaders on tenterhooks, as the future of trade between the European Union and the US was left hanging in the balance. DON'T MISS:
Brexit: Theresa May's shock 'you'll be crushed' threat to EU [REVEALED]
How Tony Blair ran up £1.2million bill using Queen's Flight 677 times [SHOCK]
Angela Merkel demands Brussels develop 'STRONGER' voice after Brexit [INSIGHT]
Sir Christopher served under the Blair government
Sir Christopher accused Brussels of making 'blood-curdling noises'
French finance minister Bruno Le Maire threatened to trigger an all-out trade war with the United States if Mr Trump did not withdraw. In a letter written to US trade representative Robert Lighthizer, Mr Le Maire stated: “If the US were to decide to impose trade sanctions against the EU over the French digital services tax, it would deeply and durably damage the transatlantic relationship at a time when we need to stand united.” Regarding Brexit trade discussions, significant economic consequences could fall upon the EU if the bloc fails to strike a deal with the UK. A no deal Brexit could see the European Union and Britain trading based on rules laid out by the World Trade Organisation. As a result, a substantial portion of the £94billion trade surplus figure mentioned by Sir Meyer, could be put at risk.
Existing world trade
The so-called transition period of Britain leaving the European Union is due to expire at the end of 2020. If a suitable compromise is not reached by both sides, Mr Johnson is expected to walk away from trade negotiations in their entirety. Alternatively, some circles have suggested that a transition period could be extended in order to avoid an all out trade battle. In the meantime, Britain is set to sit down to the table with the United States to thrash out a post-Brexit trade deal.
Tensions between Macron and Trump have led to speculation on huge tariffs for the EU
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-01-23--Whining Bercow hits out at Tories blocking his peerage – and is brutally mocked

Downing Street said allegations about Mr Bercow ’ s behaviour were `` very concerning '' and should be `` investigated thoroughly '' .
It comes after former Commons clerk Lord Lisvane became the latest to complain and handed a dossier of allegations to the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards .
But Mr Bercow denied the claims and accused the government of trying to stop him becoming a peer .
Mr Bercow said that since retiring it has `` become increasingly obvious that the Government has no intention of honouring the centuries-old convention that a departing speaker is promptly elevated to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ source pointed out that Mr Bercow , who stretched parliamentary rules during Brexit legislation , “ wasn ’ t always a fan of convention ” .
Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn is believed to have nominated him for a peerage after No 10 broke with tradition to deny him the honour when he quit last year .
Mrs Leadsom , who the former Speaker is accused of calling a “ stupid woman ” , said that no one in Parliament should be above the rules .
“ As Leader of the Commons , I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bring into place a complaints procedure that would mean nobody , whoever they are , from employees of the house right the way to the Speaker of the Commons , could be allowed to get away with bullying , or harassment , or sexual harassment of any sort whatsoever , ” she told LBC .
“ That complaints procedure is in place .
Anybody who is found guilty , whoever they are , should , in my view , not be able to skip from one House to the other.
” Lord Lisvane @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Bercow of having bullied and humiliated staff , including using inappropriate language .
Mr Bercow ’ s former private secretary Angus Sinclair previously told how he faced angry outbursts and was mimicked by Mr Bercow , who also smashed a phone on his desk .
Former Black Rod David Leakey , who was in charge of keeping order in the House of Lords , said at the time the ex-Speaker created a climate of `` fear and intimidation '' .
The Prime Minister 's official spokesman said parliamentary officials should deal with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” .
`` These are very concerning allegations and they need to be investigated thoroughly , ” he added .

John Bercow could be stripped of Lords seat warns Leadsom
Downing Street said allegations about Mr Bercow’s behaviour were "very concerning" and should be "investigated thoroughly". It comes after former Commons clerk Lord Lisvane became the latest to complain and handed a dossier of allegations to the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards.
But Mr Bercow denied the claims and accused the government of trying to stop him becoming a peer. Mr Bercow said that since retiring it has "become increasingly obvious that the Government has no intention of honouring the centuries-old convention that a departing speaker is promptly elevated to the House of Lords".
A government source pointed out that Mr Bercow, who stretched parliamentary rules during Brexit legislation, “wasn’t always a fan of convention”. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn is believed to have nominated him for a peerage after No 10 broke with tradition to deny him the honour when he quit last year.
John Bercow is worried the Government will block his peerage
Andrea Leadsom, who the former Speaker is accused of calling a 'stupid woman'
Mrs Leadsom, who the former Speaker is accused of calling a “stupid woman”, said that no one in Parliament should be above the rules. “As Leader of the Commons, I did a huge amount of work to bring into place a complaints procedure that would mean nobody, whoever they are, from employees of the house right the way to the Speaker of the Commons, could be allowed to get away with bullying, or harassment, or sexual harassment of any sort whatsoever,” she told LBC. “That complaints procedure is in place. Anybody who is found guilty, whoever they are, should, in my view, not be able to skip from one House to the other.”
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Lord Lisvane has accused his former boss of bullying
Lord Lisvane’s dossier is said to accuse Mr Bercow of having bullied and humiliated staff, including using inappropriate language. Mr Bercow’s former private secretary Angus Sinclair previously told how he faced angry outbursts and was mimicked by Mr Bercow, who also smashed a phone on his desk. Former Black Rod David Leakey, who was in charge of keeping order in the House of Lords, said at the time the ex-Speaker created a climate of "fear and intimidation". The Prime Minister's official spokesman said parliamentary officials should deal with the latest complaint “fully and promptly”. "These are very concerning allegations and they need to be investigated thoroughly,” he added.
John Bercow proved an unpopular Speaker for many