thedailyexpress--2020-09-21--Nicola Sturgeon chaos: SNP’s two-week ‘Stay at Home’ lockdown plans LEAKED

In documents , thought to be from the Scottish Government , Ms Sturgeon could put forward a two-week lockdown in order to control a second wave of the virus .
A screenshot revealed today shows plans for the Scottish Government to institute a “ circuit break ” in order to coincide with the half-term break for schools .
According to the document , this break could either be in a fixed period or over rolling two-week timeframe .
Once enforced , schools will shut throughout the period .
The Scottish Government will also push a message to stay at home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home when necessary .
Travel restriction would also be enforced , while there will also be limits on care home and hospital visits .
Commenting on the picture , Ms Sturgeon said today : `` I ’ ve heard about the screen grab .
`` I ’ m not going to comment on leaked documents , whether they are genuine or not .
`` What I would say is that any responsible Government right now would be looking at a whole range of different options.
” Although the devolved nations have all followed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be similar to the guidance being drawn up in Westminster .
Ms Sturgeon will also hold a meeting with the Prime Minister in order to discuss the next steps of the coronavirus response .
JUST IN : Sturgeon crisis : George Galloway launches campaign to oust SNP leader As daily COVID-19 cases soar , Mr Johnson warned a second wave was now imminent .
In light of a second wave of the virus hitting the country , Mr Johnson is thought to be contemplating a similar plan to the Scottish government .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a series of lockdowns over the next six months .
According to The Sun Online , a Government source stated the UK could face a series of small lockdowns until next year .
DO N'T MISS £70million spent on emergency NHS hospital in Scotland [ Latest ] Sturgeon attacked for ‘ false claims ’ as Tory minster pens letter [ Update ] Brexit LIVE : Australia stands by 'trusted partner ' UK in Brexit spat [ Live blog ] They added : “ We can see what ’ s happening .
`` By @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t do anything then obviously that ’ s going to put us in a situation that looks more like we were earlier in the year.
” This comes as the UK ’ s chief medical officer , Professor Chris Whitty , and scientific adviser , Sir Patrick Vallance held a briefing today .
Overall , the two experts stated the UK must act now in order to stop case numbers getting out of control .
In a graph shown during the briefing , the pair stated the UK could see up to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next month .
Sir Patrick added : “ At the moment we think the epidemic is doubling roughly every seven days .
`` If , and that 's quite a big if , but if that continues unabated , and this grows , doubling every seven days if that continued you would end up with something like 50,000 cases in the middle of October per day .
`` Fifty-thousand cases per day would be expected to lead a month later , so the middle of November says , to 200-plus deaths per day @

Nicola Sturgeon hits out at ‘frustrating’ delay to COBRA meeting
In documents, thought to be from the Scottish Government, Ms Sturgeon could put forward a two-week lockdown in order to control a second wave of the virus. A screenshot revealed today shows plans for the Scottish Government to institute a “circuit break” in order to coincide with the half-term break for schools. According to the document, this break could either be in a fixed period or over rolling two-week timeframe.
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Once enforced, schools will shut throughout the period. The Scottish Government will also push a message to stay at home where possible and to only leave your home when necessary. Travel restriction would also be enforced, while there will also be limits on care home and hospital visits. Commenting on the picture, Ms Sturgeon said today: "I’ve heard about the screen grab.
Nicola Sturgeon: SNP plans leaked
Nicola Sturgeon: The First Minister
"I’m not going to comment on leaked documents, whether they are genuine or not. "What I would say is that any responsible Government right now would be looking at a whole range of different options.” Although the devolved nations have all followed separate strategies, this advice is thought to be similar to the guidance being drawn up in Westminster. Ms Sturgeon will also hold a meeting with the Prime Minister in order to discuss the next steps of the coronavirus response. JUST IN: Sturgeon crisis: George Galloway launches campaign to oust SNP leader
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Nicola Sturgeon: The document in question
As daily COVID-19 cases soar, Mr Johnson warned a second wave was now imminent. In light of a second wave of the virus hitting the country, Mr Johnson is thought to be contemplating a similar plan to the Scottish government. Under his plan, England would face a series of lockdowns over the next six months. According to The Sun Online, a Government source stated the UK could face a series of small lockdowns until next year. DON'T MISS
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Sturgeon attacked for ‘false claims’ as Tory minster pens letter [Update]
Brexit LIVE: Australia stands by 'trusted partner' UK in Brexit spat [Live blog]
Nicola Sturgeon: A second lockdown is possible
Nicola Sturgeon: Mr Johnson will address to the Commons
They added: “We can see what’s happening. "By mid to late October if we don’t do anything then obviously that’s going to put us in a situation that looks more like we were earlier in the year.” This comes as the UK’s chief medical officer, Professor Chris Whitty, and scientific adviser, Sir Patrick Vallance held a briefing today. Overall, the two experts stated the UK must act now in order to stop case numbers getting out of control.
Nicola Sturgeon: Cases as of September 20
In a graph shown during the briefing, the pair stated the UK could see up to 50,000 new cases of the virus by next month. Sir Patrick added: “At the moment we think the epidemic is doubling roughly every seven days. "If, and that's quite a big if, but if that continues unabated, and this grows, doubling every seven days if that continued you would end up with something like 50,000 cases in the middle of October per day. "Fifty-thousand cases per day would be expected to lead a month later, so the middle of November says, to 200-plus deaths per day.
SNP: The leak emerged today


thedailyexpress--2020-09-21--EU caves: UK secures huge victory over London finances - Brussels give in after threat

The UK is a world leader in the financial markets with City-based firms acting as the middlemen for buyers and sellers across the globe .
European Union banks face being cut off from vital “ clearing houses ” at the end of the year if Brexit trade talks collapse .
Those EU banks “ clear ” around £670 trillion a year – with the vast majority of business going through London .
With eurocrats becoming increasingly worried about the prospect of a no-deal Brexit , they have signed off on plans to give European firms an 18-month licence to continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dombrovskis said : Clearing houses , or CCPs , play a systemic role in our financial system .
“ We are adopting this decision to protect our financial stability , which is one of our key priorities .
“ This time-limited decision has a very practical rationale , because it gives EU market participants the time they need to reduce their excessive exposures to UK-based CCPs , and EU CCPs the time to build up their clearing capability .
“ Exposures will be more balanced as a result .
It is a matter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ despite years of posturing from Brussels and failed attempts to lure British business to EU financial hubs such as Paris and Frankfurt .
City sources had previously claimed the bloc would delay granting the decision because of the furious row over the Government ’ s threat to rip up last year ’ s Withdrawal Agreement .
A memo circulated to European capitals last week told them more than 90 percent of euro trades are “ cleared ” through London .
In the note , eurocrats also warned cutting off access to the City @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU states in managing the financial fallout from the coronavirus pandemic .
MUST READ : David Jason 's Brexit confession exposed : 'It 's a nice little earner '

Brexit: Voters 'still support Boris in getting a deal' says expert
The UK is a world leader in the financial markets with City-based firms acting as the middlemen for buyers and sellers across the globe. European Union banks face being cut off from vital “clearing houses” at the end of the year if Brexit trade talks collapse. Those EU banks “clear” around £670 trillion a year – with the vast majority of business going through London.
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With eurocrats becoming increasingly worried about the prospect of a no-deal Brexit, they have signed off on plans to give European firms an 18-month licence to continue using London. European Commission vice-president Valdis Dombrovskis said: Clearing houses, or CCPs, play a systemic role in our financial system. “We are adopting this decision to protect our financial stability, which is one of our key priorities.
The EU has handed out an 18-month licence for European banks to continue using the City of London
European Commission vice-president Valdis Dombrovskis
“This time-limited decision has a very practical rationale, because it gives EU market participants the time they need to reduce their excessive exposures to UK-based CCPs, and EU CCPs the time to build up their clearing capability. “Exposures will be more balanced as a result. It is a matter of financial stability.” The move comes despite years of posturing from Brussels and failed attempts to lure British business to EU financial hubs such as Paris and Frankfurt.
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European banks still have a huge reliance on the City of London
City sources had previously claimed the bloc would delay granting the decision because of the furious row over the Government’s threat to rip up last year’s Withdrawal Agreement. A memo circulated to European capitals last week told them more than 90 percent of euro trades are “cleared” through London. In the note, eurocrats also warned cutting off access to the City would “create major challenges” for EU states in managing the financial fallout from the coronavirus pandemic. MUST READ: David Jason's Brexit confession exposed: 'It's a nice little earner'
Lord Frost and Michel Barnier are due to hold negotiations in Brussels next week
Brexit: No10 feels there has been 'movement' from EU says expert


thedailyexpress--2020-09-21--Boris Johnson lockdown update: When is Boris Johnson next giving speech on lockdown?

Boris Johnson announced he is `` feeling the weight of responsibility acutely '' amid the coronavirus pandemic , but he was absent from today 's briefing .
Government advisers Sir Patrick and Professor Whitty outlined that the UK could see up to 50,000 cases by mid-October if the rate of new coronavirus cases continues to rise at current rates .
But when will the Prime Minister next speech to the nation about the ongoing coronavirus crisis ?
Britain could see up to 50,000 new coronavirus cases each day if the current infection rate does not slow according to Sir Patrick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He added this could also equate to 200 new deaths each day .
Sir Patrick told the nation new COVID-19 cases are doubling roughly every seven days .
He said : `` The challenge therefore is to make sure the doubling time does not stay at seven days . ''
READ MORE : Fines for covid : What lockdown breaches can you be fined for ?
• Where is Boris Johnson ?
Scientists deliver covid briefing without PM England 's chief medical adviser Professor Whitty outlined the potential scenarios as cases in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warned that infection rates are `` heading in the wrong direction '' - and the country is at a `` critical point '' in the pandemic .
Professor Whitty said : `` The seasons are against us .
`` We are now going into the seasons ... that benefit respiratory viruses . ''
He said it is likely coronavirus will continue to rise through the autumn and winter .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock is due to deliver a speech about the coronavirus crisis on Monday at 3pm from the House of Commons .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` tipping point '' where `` more restrictive measures '' which could be brought in to slow the spread of the virus .
Mr Hancock said `` people have got more relaxed over the summer '' , but `` now is the moment when everybody needs to get back '' to adhering to the rules .
He added that he was concerned about people breaching self-isolation rules , prompting the Government to make it illegal and impose penalties of fines up to £10,000 .
DO N'T MISS UK winter lockdown : Is Christmas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ INSIGHT ] Phillip Schofield rips into Matt Hancock over Operation Moonshot [ EXPLAINER ] Battle of Britain heroes would no longer recognise this nation says [ ANALYSIS ] When is Boris Johnson next speaking to the nation about coronavirus ?
Mr Johnson announced the UK is `` now seeing a second wave '' last week .
He said : `` It 's been inevitable we 'd see it in this country '' .
The PM reiterated that he did not `` want to go into bigger lockdown measures '' but a tightening of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comments came as reports surfaced about a second `` mini lockdown '' , known as a `` circuit breaker '' could be introduced .
Mr Johnson is expected to address the nation about plans for a `` winter lockdown '' this week according to reports .
The PM is due to deliver an oral statement about coronavirus from Downing Street on Tuesday .
It is believed that the PM will issue tougher lockdown restrictions for Britons through the rest of 2020 as cases continue to rise .
Experts believe the new rules could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a reduction in operating hours of pubs , restaurants and other venues .
In addition , penalities will likely be made stricter for those who flout them .
National lockdowm measures would be a huge change for the PM who wanted to target surges with localised lockdown restrictions .
However , across the UK there are now more than 13.5 million people under some type of restriction .
Government sources today revealed England is in the `` last-chance saloon '' as ministers debate whether pubs will be able to open fully or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decisions have yet to be made and therefore it is unlikely Mr Johnson will address the nation until later this week once the cabinet has agreed its plan .

Boris Johnson is putting UK integrity 'at risk' says Theresa May
Boris Johnson announced he is "feeling the weight of responsibility acutely" amid the coronavirus pandemic, but he was absent from today's briefing. Government advisers Sir Patrick and Professor Whitty outlined that the UK could see up to 50,000 cases by mid-October if the rate of new coronavirus cases continues to rise at current rates. But when will the Prime Minister next speech to the nation about the ongoing coronavirus crisis?
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Britain could see up to 50,000 new coronavirus cases each day if the current infection rate does not slow according to Sir Patrick speaking from the coronavirus briefing on Monday. He added this could also equate to 200 new deaths each day. Sir Patrick told the nation new COVID-19 cases are doubling roughly every seven days. He said: "The challenge therefore is to make sure the doubling time does not stay at seven days." READ MORE: Fines for covid: What lockdown breaches can you be fined for?
Boris Johnson lockdown update: When will the PM next speak to the nation?
Boris Johnson lockdown update: The briefing delivered by Sir Patrick and Professor Whitty on Monday
READ MORE LOCKDOWN ALERT: 10pm curfew in 48 HOURS - PM to warn WORSE to follow England's chief medical adviser Professor Whitty outlined the potential scenarios as cases in the UK continue to rise. He warned that infection rates are "heading in the wrong direction" - and the country is at a "critical point" in the pandemic. Professor Whitty said: "The seasons are against us. "We are now going into the seasons... that benefit respiratory viruses." He said it is likely coronavirus will continue to rise through the autumn and winter.
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Boris Johnson lockdown update: The PM is expected to speak about a 'winter lockdown' this week
Health Secretary Matt Hancock is due to deliver a speech about the coronavirus crisis on Monday at 3pm from the House of Commons. He said the UK is facing a "tipping point" where "more restrictive measures" which could be brought in to slow the spread of the virus. Mr Hancock said "people have got more relaxed over the summer", but "now is the moment when everybody needs to get back" to adhering to the rules. He added that he was concerned about people breaching self-isolation rules, prompting the Government to make it illegal and impose penalties of fines up to £10,000. DON'T MISS
UK winter lockdown: Is Christmas the best time for lockdown? [INSIGHT]
Phillip Schofield rips into Matt Hancock over Operation Moonshot [EXPLAINER]
Battle of Britain heroes would no longer recognise this nation says [ANALYSIS]
Grant Shapps grilled by host on Boris Johnson's absence
READ MORE Northern Ireland united in outrage at Boris Johnson's Brexit plan When is Boris Johnson next speaking to the nation about coronavirus? Mr Johnson announced the UK is "now seeing a second wave" last week. He said: "It's been inevitable we'd see it in this country". The PM reiterated that he did not "want to go into bigger lockdown measures" but a tightening of social distancing might be required. His comments came as reports surfaced about a second "mini lockdown", known as a "circuit breaker" could be introduced.
Boris Johnson lockdown update: The UK is now seeing a 'second wave' according to the PM
Mr Johnson is expected to address the nation about plans for a "winter lockdown" this week according to reports. The PM will deliver an oral statement about coronavirus from Downing Street on Tuesday. He is expected to discuss the new curfew which comes into effect on Thursday evening requiring all pubs, bars and restaurants to close at 10pm each day. His speech will be delivered following a COBRA meeting earlier on Tuesday. Experts believe the new rules could involve a ban of separate households mixing, a reduction in operating hours of pubs, restaurants and other venues. In addition, penalities will likely be made stricter for those who flout them.


thedailyexpress--2020-09-21--Brexit LIVE: Leavers react with fury to Theresa May's intervention - 'Never on UK's side!'

Mrs May told the Commons : `` I can not emphasise how concerned I am that a Conservative Government is willing to go back on its word , to break an international agreement signed in good faith and to break international law . ''
She accused Mr Johnson ’ s Government of acting `` recklessly and irresponsibly '' without thinking of the long-term consequences by its willingness to breach international law .
Brexiteers were quick to slap down her comments , with some accusing her of working with the EU against Britain .
One person tweeted : “ You seriously @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the EU to turn the UK into a vassal state ?
” Another said Mrs May ’ s warning proved she was “ still fighting hard for the EU ” .
Mr Johnson has refused to bow to the EU ’ s calls to withdraw the legislation which seeks to override parts of the Northern Ireland Protocol in the Withdrawal Agreement .
One Brexit supporter said they were not surprised at Mrs May ’ s intervention , adding : “ May thinks it perfectly fine that the EU would be legally able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between the rest of the UK & NI ” .
Leading Brexit campaigner Darren Grimes said Mrs May ’ s warning to lawmakers made him grateful she was no longer in No 10 .
He said : “ With each passing day I am so completely and utterly delighted that Theresa May is out of office .
`` In trying to appear tough '' , explains why she was so completely and utterly supine in her approach to negotiations with , and threats from , the EU and defending our national interest.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pledge support for Bill Two former cabinet ministers told the Commons they will support the Government 's amendment which gives MPs a vote on any future changes to the Withdrawal Agreement .
Damian Green said he was `` shocked '' when Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis said the United Kingdom Internal Market Bill breaks international law in a `` very specific and limited way '' but Mr Green welcomed the Government 's amendment which creates a so-called parliamentary lock .
He added : `` If the Government ca n't make the case that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legally , it will not convince the House and it seems to me this is how lawmaking should happen in this parliamentary democracy . ''
Former attorney general Jeremy Wright said it `` might be the right thing for this country to do '' to break international law as a `` lesser evil '' to protect the `` social or economic fabric '' of the UK .
He added : `` Those of us with those reservations who have understandable concerns about the effect on the rule of law of what the Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ answer one question which is : are there any conceivable circumstances in which international law could properly be broken by this country ?
`` And I can not come to the conclusion that there are no conceivable circumstances in which that might be the right course of action if there were to be a fundamental threat to the social or economic fabric of this country and that breaking the international law was the lesser evil , than I can accept that it might be the right thing for this country to do .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ said `` it is the patriotic duty '' of MPs to vote against the Bill .
She told the Commons : `` Every MP who votes for these clauses tonight will be voting against the rule of law .
We 're being sucked in as accomplices to the Government 's reckless bid to undermine the rule of law . ''
Dame Margaret added : `` It 's Britain 's long-term future which is at stake tonight .
There is nothing decent , nothing honourable , nothing patriotic about playing roulette with the rule @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our reputation , our integrity , our authority and our influence on the world stage . ''
8.44pm update : IDS to vote for controversial Bill 'with a clean heart ' Conservative former leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith said he would be voting in favour of the legislation `` with a clean heart '' .
He said : `` Let 's not be too pompous about this idea that somehow international law is like some God-given gospel that says , 'absolutely nobody can ever trespass away from this ' , because many of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Tory MP added : `` I am going to vote for this tonight .
I vote for it with a clean heart , I vote for it because so much of what we do from state aids through to transfer of goods and agri-products will be affected , labelling , all these areas unnecessarily .
`` If the EU seriously wants to help and to get this done , then they need to return to the table , do the joint-committee as they said and accept what we 're saying .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the prisoner of an EU that wants to have all power over the UK . ''
Conservative former Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley said : `` I do want to support the Prime Minister .
I do want to see the United Kingdom , the whole United Kingdom , leave the European Union , respecting that referendum result .
`` But I also am desperately uncomfortable about being put in a situation where I 'm being asked to vote to break international law and I just believe , that my instinct tells me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me to vote for tonight is not the right thing to do . ''
8.01pm update : Ministers do not have a 'carte blance ' to break international law , says Tory MP MPs must have a vote if the Government chooses to breach the terms of the Withdrawal Agreement , a senior Tory MP has said .
The Government has accepted the calls of Sir Bob Neill , the Tory chairman of the Commons Justice Committee , to offer a `` parliamentary lock '' in the event of a potential deviation from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would have to make a `` persuasive '' case to MPs that the EU was acting in `` breach of their obligation of good faith '' in order for them to vote for such a move .
During the third day of committee stage debate on the Bill , he told the Commons : `` That 's why I 'm prepared to adopt the formulation of the Lord Chancellor that such a thing might be acceptable in extremis .
`` This is not a carte blanche for the Government - and in fairness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taken it as such and I think they know that it weighs heavily to do such a thing .
`` So that 's why if the Government moves amendment 66 tomorrow when we get to that stage , I will be prepared to withdraw my amendment but it is to give the Government the chance to make its case as to why such an exceptional step should be necessary . ''
7.04pm update : SNP 's Oswald says Internal Market Bill is 'very damaging ' to UK SNP Westminster deputy leader Kirsten Oswald @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confused and very damaging '' .
She told the Commons : `` This Internal Market Bill is a grubby power grab which we can not and will not support , and this section as it stands will hang like a badge of dishonour around this Prime Minister 's term of office , however long or short that might be . ''
Ms Oswald added : `` At its heart , this Bill is ill-conceived , confused and very damaging , frightening like the UK Government , and neither of them deserve our support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who chairs the European Scrutiny Committee , said : `` It 's understandable that some are bothered about this to a degree . ''
Responding to laughter from the opposition benches , he added : `` I said to a degree .
It 's all a matter within the framework of international law , it is entirely a question of whether or not the degree to which it is done is commensurate with what is being proposed . ''
6.41pm update : Internal Market Bill 'puts integrity of UK at risk ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ May warned the Government `` is putting the integrity of the UK at risk '' .
She said : `` I believe that the Government 's willingness unilaterally to abandon an international agreement or parts of an international agreement it has signed , its willingness to renege on an agreement it has signed will lead to some questioning , as has already been made clear in an intervention , some questioning the willingness of the Government to fully uphold the measures in the Belfast Good Friday Agreement .
`` That in turn will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to trust the UK Government and that could have a consequence on the willingness of people in the Northern Ireland to remain part of the UK .
`` So , far from acting to reinforce the integrity of the UK , in pursuit of trying to appear to be tough to the EU , I think the Government is putting the integrity of the UK at risk . ''
Northern Ireland minister Robin Walker said the Government `` is committed to implementing the Withdrawal Agreement and the Northern Ireland Protocol '' .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responsible Government we can not accept any amendments which would undermine the provisions in this Bill rendering them no kind of safety net at all .
`` The Government has been very clear in the Command Paper that we will ensure there are no tariffs on any goods remaining within the UK customs territory - further measures on this will be set out in the finance bill . ''
Labour 's shadow Cabinet Office minister Paul Blomfield said the Government 's compromise of a parliamentary vote does not stop any breach of international @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so-called compromise may calm some members opposite but it does n't resolve the issue , the breach of international law that has led to the resignation of the head of the Government 's legal service Jonathan Jones . ''
Theresa May said she can not support the Prime Minister 's Internal Market Bill .
Former prime minister Theresa May has asked why the Government signed the Withdrawal Agreement if the consequences of it were so bad .
She told the Commons : `` ( Robin Walker 's ) been setting out through his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 45 because of the bad consequences that could come from the interpretation of the Withdrawal Agreement .
`` If the potential consequences of the Withdrawal Agreement were so bad , why did the Government sign it ? ''
Mr Walker responded : `` As ( Mrs May ) knows well , the Withdrawal Agreement was negotiated by the UK and the EU , and agreed with a view that certain elements would be resolved by the Joint Committee .
`` I think there was a reasonable expectation on both sides that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on those issues and we have heard unfortunately some harmful interpretations suggested over the last few months .
`` The point of these Government clauses is to ensure that we can rule those out and put in place the appropriate legal default . ''
EU governments agreed on Monday on the qualities they want from the next leader of the World Trade Organisation , but no longer back the same candidates after Hungary said committed Brexiteer Liam Fox would be one of its picks .
The bloc were united on their choices in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ field was cut from eight to five .
But Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said on Sunday evening his country would back Fox , a former Conservative trade minister who strongly supported Britain 's exit from the European Union , as well as Kenya 's Amina Mohamed in round two .
4.02pm update : 'We are in volatile times in terms of Brexit ' Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland , Michelle O'Neill , has answered Assembly questions on a meeting of the ministers from the Stormont Executive and Irish Government at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ O'Toole asked would she use the North South Ministerial Council to raise the issue of Northern Ireland being included in future EU trade deals once the transition period ends at the end of 2020 .
Ms O'Neill said she would be happy to raise the issue .
She expressed hope that the impasse over the protocol could be ironed out through the joint EU UK committee set up to look at how it will operate .
She said : `` We are clearly in politically volatile times in terms of Brexit and what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is that there is an outcome through the joint committee . ''
Asked by Alliance 's Stewart Dickson if her and Mrs Foster jointly shared the concerns raised by businesses , she said : `` I do n't think it 's any secret to the member that myself and the First Minister have a different outlook in terms of Brexit but we have a commonality in terms of protecting our people and what we want to see is a minimisation of any disruption , '' she said .
`` So I hope that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the course of the next number of weeks and certainly , I 'll use my best endeavours to play my part in all of that . ''
3.09pm update : People in Northern Ireland being used as 'pawn ' in Brexit debate People in Northern Ireland are being used as a pawn in the ongoing stand off between the UK and EU over a Brexit trade deal , Michelle O'Neill has warned .
Stormont 's deputy First Minister said citizens and businesses needed an end to the uncertainty around what will face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vice president told the Assembly in Belfast that she and DUP First Minister Arlene Foster were committed to working together to achieve the best outcome for the region , despite their political differences over Brexit .
Ms O'Neill 's comment come amid the recent controversy over the UK Government 's bid to use domestic legislation to override elements of the Withdrawal Treaty , namely the Northern Ireland protocol on post-Brexit trading arrangements .
The deputy First Minister told MLAs : `` It 's in all our interests to minimise disruption to trade .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ north-south and east-west .
We are in the middle of certainly , as a people , being used as a pawn in the middle of the Brexit debate right now .
And that 's not a good place for us to be .
`` Our people need certainty , our businesses need certainty and we will work to make sure that that happens . ''
2.44pm update : `` UK should be free '' - Liam Fox issues warning to Brussels Former Trade Secretary Liam Fox warned the EU over dictating the future @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transition period ends .
Speaking to Express.co.uk , Mr Fox called for a post-Brexit agreement to be reached that will allow the UK the freedom to seek trade deals with other countries outside the bloc , rather than be `` limited '' to just EU nations .
He said : `` After the transition period , the UK will be free to proceed with free trade agreements with whom we like .
`` One of the elements in the UK-EU discussion is to not have the EU dictate to the UK what its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which might in some circumstances limit the UK .
`` I think the best way forward is for the UK and the EU to reach an agreement that allows the UK to be free to reach trade agreements in the same way the EU is able to do . ''
Brussels has granted permission to European banks to trade trillions of pounds through the City of London until 2022 amid fears of an acrimonious split with Britain .
European Commission vice-president Valdis Dombrovskis said : `` Clearing houses , or CCPs , play @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ We are adopting this decision to protect our financial stability , which is one of our key priorities .
“ This time-limited decision has a very practical rationale , because it gives EU market participants the time they need to reduce their excessive exposures to UK-based CCPs , and EU CCPs the time to build up their clearing capability .
“ Exposures will be more balanced as a result .
It is a matter of financial stability.
” 10.51am update : UK within its rights to override withdrawal agreement - Bill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MP for Stone , Sir William Cash , has claimed the UK is within its rights to break the withdrawal agreement .
He also referenced examples whereby member states , namely Germany , have violated international agreements in the past .
He added : `` The Withdrawal Agreement was written on the basis of recognising our sovereignty – which has not happened .
`` This UK Internal Market Bill is a necessary insurance policy preventing us from subjection to EU jurisdiction , and ensures the necessary competitiveness upon which the jobs and businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with our own state aid rules . ''
The pound to euro exchange rate has `` slid '' in a second straight daily loss due to growing concerns over a post-Brexit trade deal .
The pound is currently trading at 1.0912 against the euro , according to Bloomberg at the time of writing .
This is slightly below Friday ’ s rate of 1.0934 .
Speaking today , Australia 's High Commissioner for the UK , George Brandis has insisted the trust remains unbroken between the two despite the controversy surrounding talks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trade UK : `` We Australians regard the UK as a trusted partner .
`` Both countries are engaged in good-faith negotiations . ''
The second round of negotiations between the UK and Australia commences today .
NIGEL Farage has revealed he is in complete agreement with EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier on one aspect of Britain 's relationship with the European Union - while making his outright hostility towards the bloc abundantly clear .
The Brexit Party leader was reacting after quotes attributed to Mr Barnier were tweeted by the European Democrats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ belongs .
Mr Farage said in response : `` Barnier says 'Farage simply wanted to destroy us ' and he ’ s absolutely right .
`` I believe in independent , democratic nations in Europe being friends and trading with each other - not the new Soviet Union in Brussels . ''
International Trade Secretary Liz Truss announced the beginning of the latest round of trade talks with Australia today .
She said : `` The second round of UK-Australia trade talks starts today .
`` We 're intensifying talks and pushing UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , telecoms , financial services and food & drink .
`` We want a gold standard agreement that delivers for the whole of Britain . ''
The Prime Minister 's proposed legislation returns to Parliament today for its latest Committee stage reading .
The controversial legislation is intended to maintain trade between the four nations and is scheduled to have its final report on September 29 .
Controversy sparked earlier this month , after it was discovered the legislation violates elements of the withdrawal agreement .
Particularly the provisions surrounding state aid in @ @ @ @ @ @

Brexit: Voters 'still support Boris in getting a deal' says expert
The former prime minister used a rousing speech in the House of Commons this afternoon to rip apart Boris Johnson’s proposed legal framework. The Conservative MP said the Brexit Bill would cause "untold damage" to the UK and threaten the future of the Union.
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Mrs May told the Commons: "I cannot emphasise how concerned I am that a Conservative Government is willing to go back on its word, to break an international agreement signed in good faith and to break international law." She accused Mr Johnson’s Government of acting "recklessly and irresponsibly" without thinking of the long-term consequences by its willingness to breach international law. Brexiteers were quick to slap down her comments, with some accusing her of working with the EU against Britain. One person tweeted: “You seriously think Margaret Thatcher would have colluded with the EU to turn the UK into a vassal state?” Another said Mrs May’s warning proved she was “still fighting hard for the EU”.
Brexit Live: Theresa May said she cannot vote for the PM's Internal Market Bill
Theresa May has said she cannot support the PM's Internal Market Bill
Mr Johnson has refused to bow to the EU’s calls to withdraw the legislation which seeks to override parts of the Northern Ireland Protocol in the Withdrawal Agreement. One Brexit supporter said they were not surprised at Mrs May’s intervention, adding: “May thinks it perfectly fine that the EU would be legally able to blockade trade or enforce tariffs on trade between the rest of the UK & NI”. Leading Brexit campaigner Darren Grimes said Mrs May’s warning to lawmakers made him grateful she was no longer in No 10. He said: “With each passing day I am so completely and utterly delighted that Theresa May is out of office. "In trying to appear tough", explains why she was so completely and utterly supine in her approach to negotiations with, and threats from, the EU and defending our national interest.” FOLLOW BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES:
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IDS will vote for the PM's Brexit Bill 'with a clean heart'
10.40pm update: Two former cabinet ministers pledge support for Bill Two former cabinet ministers told the Commons they will support the Government's amendment which gives MPs a vote on any future changes to the Withdrawal Agreement. Damian Green said he was "shocked" when Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis said the United Kingdom Internal Market Bill breaks international law in a "very specific and limited way" but Mr Green welcomed the Government's amendment which creates a so-called parliamentary lock. He added: "If the Government can't make the case that it is behaving properly, proportionately and legally, it will not convince the House and it seems to me this is how lawmaking should happen in this parliamentary democracy." Former attorney general Jeremy Wright said it "might be the right thing for this country to do" to break international law as a "lesser evil" to protect the "social or economic fabric" of the UK. He added: "Those of us with those reservations who have understandable concerns about the effect on the rule of law of what the Government is proposing, I think need to answer one question which is: are there any conceivable circumstances in which international law could properly be broken by this country? "And I cannot come to the conclusion that there are no conceivable circumstances in which that might be the right course of action if there were to be a fundamental threat to the social or economic fabric of this country and that breaking the international law was the lesser evil, than I can accept that it might be the right thing for this country to do." 9.54pm update: MPs have 'patriotic duty' to oppose Internal Market Bill Former Labour minister Dame Margaret Hodge said "it is the patriotic duty" of MPs to vote against the Bill. She told the Commons: "Every MP who votes for these clauses tonight will be voting against the rule of law. We're being sucked in as accomplices to the Government's reckless bid to undermine the rule of law." Dame Margaret added: "It's Britain's long-term future which is at stake tonight. There is nothing decent, nothing honourable, nothing patriotic about playing roulette with the rule of law. Breaking it will destroy our reputation, our integrity, our authority and our influence on the world stage." 8.44pm update: IDS to vote for controversial Bill 'with a clean heart' Conservative former leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith said he would be voting in favour of the legislation "with a clean heart". He said: "Let's not be too pompous about this idea that somehow international law is like some God-given gospel that says, 'absolutely nobody can ever trespass away from this', because many of these things are fudged anyway." The Tory MP added: "I am going to vote for this tonight. I vote for it with a clean heart, I vote for it because so much of what we do from state aids through to transfer of goods and agri-products will be affected, labelling, all these areas unnecessarily. "If the EU seriously wants to help and to get this done, then they need to return to the table, do the joint-committee as they said and accept what we're saying. We will not allow our constitution to become the prisoner of an EU that wants to have all power over the UK." Conservative former Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley said: "I do want to support the Prime Minister. I do want to see the United Kingdom, the whole United Kingdom, leave the European Union, respecting that referendum result. "But I also am desperately uncomfortable about being put in a situation where I'm being asked to vote to break international law and I just believe, that my instinct tells me, that what the Government is asking me to vote for tonight is not the right thing to do." 8.01pm update: Ministers do not have a 'carte blance' to break international law, says Tory MP MPs must have a vote if the Government chooses to breach the terms of the Withdrawal Agreement, a senior Tory MP has said. The Government has accepted the calls of Sir Bob Neill, the Tory chairman of the Commons Justice Committee, to offer a "parliamentary lock" in the event of a potential deviation from international law. Sir Bob said ministers would have to make a "persuasive" case to MPs that the EU was acting in "breach of their obligation of good faith" in order for them to vote for such a move. During the third day of committee stage debate on the Bill, he told the Commons: "That's why I'm prepared to adopt the formulation of the Lord Chancellor that such a thing might be acceptable in extremis. "This is not a carte blanche for the Government - and in fairness I don't think ministers have ever taken it as such and I think they know that it weighs heavily to do such a thing. "So that's why if the Government moves amendment 66 tomorrow when we get to that stage, I will be prepared to withdraw my amendment but it is to give the Government the chance to make its case as to why such an exceptional step should be necessary."
7.04pm update: SNP's Oswald says Internal Market Bill is 'very damaging' to UK SNP Westminster deputy leader Kirsten Oswald described the Bill as "ill-conceived, confused and very damaging". She told the Commons: "This Internal Market Bill is a grubby power grab which we cannot and will not support, and this section as it stands will hang like a badge of dishonour around this Prime Minister's term of office, however long or short that might be." Ms Oswald added: "At its heart, this Bill is ill-conceived, confused and very damaging, frightening like the UK Government, and neither of them deserve our support." Conservative MP Sir Bill Cash, who chairs the European Scrutiny Committee, said: "It's understandable that some are bothered about this to a degree." Responding to laughter from the opposition benches, he added: "I said to a degree. It's all a matter within the framework of international law, it is entirely a question of whether or not the degree to which it is done is commensurate with what is being proposed." 6.41pm update: Internal Market Bill 'puts integrity of UK at risk' - May Former Conservative prime minister Theresa May warned the Government "is putting the integrity of the UK at risk". She said: "I believe that the Government's willingness unilaterally to abandon an international agreement or parts of an international agreement it has signed, its willingness to renege on an agreement it has signed will lead to some questioning, as has already been made clear in an intervention, some questioning the willingness of the Government to fully uphold the measures in the Belfast Good Friday Agreement. "That in turn will lead to some communities having less willingness to trust the UK Government and that could have a consequence on the willingness of people in the Northern Ireland to remain part of the UK. "So, far from acting to reinforce the integrity of the UK, in pursuit of trying to appear to be tough to the EU, I think the Government is putting the integrity of the UK at risk." 6.34pm update: PM's compromise 'doesn't resolve issue' at heart of Bill Northern Ireland minister Robin Walker said the Government "is committed to implementing the Withdrawal Agreement and the Northern Ireland Protocol". He added: "However, as a responsible Government we cannot accept any amendments which would undermine the provisions in this Bill rendering them no kind of safety net at all. "The Government has been very clear in the Command Paper that we will ensure there are no tariffs on any goods remaining within the UK customs territory - further measures on this will be set out in the finance bill." Labour's shadow Cabinet Office minister Paul Blomfield said the Government's compromise of a parliamentary vote does not stop any breach of international law. He added: "This so-called compromise may calm some members opposite but it doesn't resolve the issue, the breach of international law that has led to the resignation of the head of the Government's legal service Jonathan Jones." 5.55pm update: May refuses to support Brexit Bill Theresa May said she cannot support the Prime Minister's Internal Market Bill. 5.38pm update: Theresa May questions why Boris Johnson signed Brexit deal Former prime minister Theresa May has asked why the Government signed the Withdrawal Agreement if the consequences of it were so bad. She told the Commons: "(Robin Walker's) been setting out through his speech that the Government wants clauses 41 to 45 because of the bad consequences that could come from the interpretation of the Withdrawal Agreement. "If the potential consequences of the Withdrawal Agreement were so bad, why did the Government sign it?" Mr Walker responded: "As (Mrs May) knows well, the Withdrawal Agreement was negotiated by the UK and the EU, and agreed with a view that certain elements would be resolved by the Joint Committee. "I think there was a reasonable expectation on both sides that the Joint Committee would have made more progress on those issues and we have heard unfortunately some harmful interpretations suggested over the last few months. "The point of these Government clauses is to ensure that we can rule those out and put in place the appropriate legal default."
Hungary has backed Brexiteer Liam Fox to lead the World Trade Organisation
4.46pm update: EU unity on WTO chief frays as Hungary backs Brexiteer Fox EU governments agreed on Monday on the qualities they want from the next leader of the World Trade Organisation, but no longer back the same candidates after Hungary said committed Brexiteer Liam Fox would be one of its picks. The bloc were united on their choices in the first round of selection as the field was cut from eight to five. But Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said on Sunday evening his country would back Fox, a former Conservative trade minister who strongly supported Britain's exit from the European Union, as well as Kenya's Amina Mohamed in round two. A number of EU countries, notably France, oppose Fox's candidacy, EU diplomats say. 4.02pm update: 'We are in volatile times in terms of Brexit' Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland, Michelle O'Neill, has answered Assembly questions on a meeting of the ministers from the Stormont Executive and Irish Government at the end of July. SDLP member Matthew O'Toole asked would she use the North South Ministerial Council to raise the issue of Northern Ireland being included in future EU trade deals once the transition period ends at the end of 2020. Ms O'Neill said she would be happy to raise the issue. She expressed hope that the impasse over the protocol could be ironed out through the joint EU UK committee set up to look at how it will operate. She said: "We are clearly in politically volatile times in terms of Brexit and what that means, but what we hope is that there is an outcome through the joint committee." Asked by Alliance's Stewart Dickson if her and Mrs Foster jointly shared the concerns raised by businesses, she said: "I don't think it's any secret to the member that myself and the First Minister have a different outlook in terms of Brexit but we have a commonality in terms of protecting our people and what we want to see is a minimisation of any disruption," she said. "So I hope that there's a political outcome achieved here over the course of the next number of weeks and certainly, I'll use my best endeavours to play my part in all of that." 3.09pm update: People in Northern Ireland being used as 'pawn' in Brexit debate People in Northern Ireland are being used as a pawn in the ongoing stand off between the UK and EU over a Brexit trade deal, Michelle O'Neill has warned. Stormont's deputy First Minister said citizens and businesses needed an end to the uncertainty around what will face them next year. The Sinn Fein vice president told the Assembly in Belfast that she and DUP First Minister Arlene Foster were committed to working together to achieve the best outcome for the region, despite their political differences over Brexit. Ms O'Neill's comment come amid the recent controversy over the UK Government's bid to use domestic legislation to override elements of the Withdrawal Treaty, namely the Northern Ireland protocol on post-Brexit trading arrangements. The deputy First Minister told MLAs: "It's in all our interests to minimise disruption to trade. "We want to see frictionless trade north-south and east-west. We are in the middle of certainly, as a people, being used as a pawn in the middle of the Brexit debate right now. And that's not a good place for us to be. "Our people need certainty, our businesses need certainty and we will work to make sure that that happens."
Sinn Fein's Michelle O'Neill said the people of Northern Ireland were being used as a Brexit 'pawn'
2.44pm update: "UK should be free" - Liam Fox issues warning to Brussels Former Trade Secretary Liam Fox warned the EU over dictating the future trading arrangements with the UK once the transition period ends. Speaking to Express.co.uk, Mr Fox called for a post-Brexit agreement to be reached that will allow the UK the freedom to seek trade deals with other countries outside the bloc, rather than be "limited" to just EU nations. He said: "After the transition period, the UK will be free to proceed with free trade agreements with whom we like. "One of the elements in the UK-EU discussion is to not have the EU dictate to the UK what its future regulatory structure would look like and which might in some circumstances limit the UK. "I think the best way forward is for the UK and the EU to reach an agreement that allows the UK to be free to reach trade agreements in the same way the EU is able to do." 1.39pm update: EU caves as UK secures huge victory over London finances Brussels has granted permission to European banks to trade trillions of pounds through the City of London until 2022 amid fears of an acrimonious split with Britain. European Commission vice-president Valdis Dombrovskis said: "Clearing houses, or CCPs, play a systemic role in our financial system. “We are adopting this decision to protect our financial stability, which is one of our key priorities. “This time-limited decision has a very practical rationale, because it gives EU market participants the time they need to reduce their excessive exposures to UK-based CCPs, and EU CCPs the time to build up their clearing capability. “Exposures will be more balanced as a result. It is a matter of financial stability.”
Brexit news: Formal negotiations will resume next week
1.14pm update: Bill Cash expertly points out EU hypocrisy The Tory MP for Stone insisted the EU has never recognised the UK’s newfound sovereignty during Brexit talks. Sir Bill also stated the UK Internal Market Bill was an essential piece of legislation to stop Britain being locked into EU jurisdiction. Writing for Conservative Home, he said: “This UK Internal Market Bill is a necessary insurance policy preventing us from subjection to EU jurisdiction, and ensures the necessary competitiveness upon which the jobs and businesses of every voter in every constituency depends, with our own state aid rules. “The undemocratic European Commission threatens to take legal action against the UK for what is not even an established breach of international law. "They dare to tell our democratic sovereign Parliament to abandon essential proposals in this Bill. “What a nerve.”
Brexit live: Bill Cash savages EU
12.46pm update: Galileo blow as £5bn UK rival set to be scrapped Hopes of a British satellite navigation project to rival the EU's Galileo system at a cost of up to £5billion are on the verge of crashing down to Earth with the UK Space Agency poised to terminate the project. Tory MP Tobias Ellwood, chairman of the defence select committee, agreed, stressing the UK is currently without a back-up to the United States's Global Positioning System (GPS), on which it is completely reliant. Mr Ellwood, MP for Bournemouth West, told Express.co.uk the push for a UK system had essentially been a "vanity project". He said: "We need to remove the politics from security. "Common sense must prevail. If we don't have the back-up of Galileo we are going to have problems."
Brexit live: Michel Barnier
11.25am update: Michel Barnier's negotiating tactic torn apart Michel Barnier's negotiating tactics in the Brexit talks with the UK have been torn apart by Frexit campaigner Charles-Henri Gallois. As tensions are set to rise in the coming days, French politician and Frexit campaigner Charles-Henri Gallois cast scorn on Mr Barnier's negotiating tactics during an exclusive interview with Express.co.uk. He added: "French people are not really interested in what is going on with Brexit. "He is a politician for the European Union, that's all they need to know. "He is applying the goal of the EU. "He wants to make the British suffer so that other countries won't leave the bloc. "He is doing exactly what the EU wants, so he is perfect for that role."
Brexit: The EU branded a 'dictatorship' by expert
10.51am update: UK within its rights to override withdrawal agreement - Bill Cash Writing for Conservative Home, Tory MP for Stone, Sir William Cash, has claimed the UK is within its rights to break the withdrawal agreement. He also referenced examples whereby member states, namely Germany, have violated international agreements in the past. He added: "The Withdrawal Agreement was written on the basis of recognising our sovereignty – which has not happened. "This UK Internal Market Bill is a necessary insurance policy preventing us from subjection to EU jurisdiction, and ensures the necessary competitiveness upon which the jobs and businesses of every voter in every constituency depends, with our own state aid rules." 10.18am update: Sterling slides amid Brexit "jitters" The pound to euro exchange rate has "slid" in a second straight daily loss due to growing concerns over a post-Brexit trade deal. The pound is currently trading at 1.0912 against the euro, according to Bloomberg at the time of writing. This is slightly below Friday’s rate of 1.0934.
Brexit Live: Australia stands by UK
9.13am update: Australia stands by UK Speaking today, Australia's High Commissioner for the UK, George Brandis has insisted the trust remains unbroken between the two despite the controversy surrounding talks with the EU. He told Morning Trade UK: "We Australians regard the UK as a trusted partner. "Both countries are engaged in good-faith negotiations." The second round of negotiations between the UK and Australia commences today. 9am update: Nigel Farages agrees with Michel Barnier in cheeky tweet NIGEL Farage has revealed he is in complete agreement with EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier on one aspect of Britain's relationship with the European Union - while making his outright hostility towards the bloc abundantly clear. The Brexit Party leader was reacting after quotes attributed to Mr Barnier were tweeted by the European Democrats, the political group to which he belongs. Mr Farage said in response: "Barnier says 'Farage simply wanted to destroy us' and he’s absolutely right. "I believe in independent, democratic nations in Europe being friends and trading with each other - not the new Soviet Union in Brussels."
Brexit talks


thedailyexpress--2020-09-21--Sturgeon crisis: George Galloway launches campaign to oust SNP leader - 'enough is enough'

The campaign appears to have been started by former veteran MP George Galloway , who is a huge vocal critic of the SNP and her establishment in Scotland , in particular their continued push for independence from the rest of the UK .
But now Mr Galloway appears to have stepped up his campaign against the First Minister and her ruling party by launching a campaign to call for a vote of no confidence in them .
Launching the campaign on change.org , he wrote : `` As # ResignSturgeon trends across social media , it has become clear that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incapable of working for the best interests of the Scottish people and Scotland .
`` In the interest of all Scots , it ’ s time for Nicola Sturgeon to do the right thing - resign , and allow a cross-party government of unity take over to see Scotland through this dark time - created after 13 years of SNP misrule .
`` If you agree , then please sign this petition which we will deliver to Holyrood .
Scotland deserves better than this haphazard , reckless and foolish SNP administration , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Neverendum and Scottish separatism .
`` We , the people of Scotland say enough is enough .
We call upon Nicola Sturgeon to resign . ''
The petition from Mr Galloway , which had received nearly 20,000 signatures at the time of writing , has received a wave of support from those opposed to Ms Sturgeon and her SNP Government .
One person wrote : `` The First Minister said to judge her on education .
I have .
she has to go . ''
Another commented : `` This woman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` She wo n't sack the incompetents in her Cabinet and has let the old people down drastically .
Time to go .
`` I 'm sick to the back teeth of hearing about independence .
`` This woman has split Scotland down the middle and does n't care . ''
Last week , Ms Sturgeon 's Scottish independence dream was torn apart by Mr Galloway , who rubbished the findings of a Panelbase survey .
The survey found 55 percent of Scots would vote in favour of independence , but the veteran @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is now down to 53 percent .
He claimed the figure did not include `` do n't know '' answers which he said voted against independence in 2014 .
DO N'T MISS Is it value for money ?
BBC Scotland handed BAD NEWS over new figures [ DATA ] Sturgeon 's TV briefings will FINALLY be probed by politicians [ ANALYSIS ] Nicola Sturgeon DEMANDS crunch COVID meeting with Boris in 48-hours [ COMMENT ] Speaking on a live Facebook broadcast for Alliance for Unity , Mr Galloway said : `` Numbers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two previous polls were not actually polls , they were Panelbase surveys and you can only participate in a Panelbase survey if you 've already signed up to it .
`` But in the latest polls the SNP lead was not 55 percent but 53 percent but only if you exclude the 'do n't know ' .

IndyRef2: George Galloway claims that the latest polls 'are wrong'
The campaign appears to have been started by former veteran MP George Galloway, who is a huge vocal critic of the SNP and her establishment in Scotland, in particular their continued push for independence from the rest of the UK. But now Mr Galloway appears to have stepped up his campaign against the First Minister and her ruling party by launching a campaign to call for a vote of no confidence in them. Launching the campaign on change.org, he wrote: "As #ResignSturgeon trends across social media, it has become clear that Nicola Sturgeon and her government are utterly incapable of working for the best interests of the Scottish people and Scotland.
Trending
"In the interest of all Scots, it’s time for Nicola Sturgeon to do the right thing - resign, and allow a cross-party government of unity take over to see Scotland through this dark time - created after 13 years of SNP misrule. "If you agree, then please sign this petition which we will deliver to Holyrood. Scotland deserves better than this haphazard, reckless and foolish SNP administration, which has literally failed lives in their pursuit of the Neverendum and Scottish separatism. "We, the people of Scotland say enough is enough. We call upon Nicola Sturgeon to resign." The petition from Mr Galloway, which had received nearly 20,000 signatures at the time of writing, has received a wave of support from those opposed to Ms Sturgeon and her SNP Government.
A campaign has been launched for a vote of no confidence in Nicola Sturgeon
Scotland's First Minister is coming under increasing pressure
One person wrote: "The First Minister said to judge her on education. I have. she has to go." Another commented: "This woman has let Scotland down big time. "She won't sack the incompetents in her Cabinet and has let the old people down drastically. Time to go. "I'm sick to the back teeth of hearing about independence. READ MORE: Coronavirus map LIVE: Boris plans sombre address amid lockdown fears
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Nicola Sturgeon is continuing her campaign for Scottish independence
"This woman has split Scotland down the middle and doesn't care." Last week, Ms Sturgeon's Scottish independence dream was torn apart by Mr Galloway, who rubbished the findings of a Panelbase survey. The survey found 55 percent of Scots would vote in favour of independence, but the veteran politician pointed out a YouGov survey found it is now down to 53 percent. He claimed the figure did not include "don't know" answers which he said voted against independence in 2014. DON'T MISS
Is it value for money? BBC Scotland handed BAD NEWS over new figures [DATA]
Sturgeon's TV briefings will FINALLY be probed by politicians [ANALYSIS]
Nicola Sturgeon DEMANDS crunch COVID meeting with Boris in 48-hours [COMMENT]
George Galloway has been hugely critical of Nicola Sturgeon and the SNP
George Galloway is calling on Nicola Sturgeon to resign
Speaking on a live Facebook broadcast for Alliance for Unity, Mr Galloway said: "Numbers are on our side. "The two previous polls were not actually polls, they were Panelbase surveys and you can only participate in a Panelbase survey if you've already signed up to it. "But in the latest polls the SNP lead was not 55 percent but 53 percent but only if you exclude the 'don't know'.


thedailyexpress--2020-09-21--Boris warned to avoid second lockdown as it would 'ruin economy and diminish immunity'

After he chairs the meeting on Tuesday , the Prime Minister is expected to give a sombre address to the nation in which he will announce new measures designed to curb the number of COVID-19 infections .
As Britons brace for a possible second shutdown , Express.co.uk conducted a poll asking readers if there should be a repeat of the rules rolled on in March .
Asked if Mr Johnson should impose another lockdown , six in 10 respondents ( 4,805 ) said no while nearly four in 10 ( 3,041 ) said yes .
Just two percent ( 259 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said they were not sure .
Many people called for restrictions to be enforced in a stronger way , with rule-breakers punished .
They argued that if everyone abided by the “ rule of six ” and wore a mask in shops and on public transport there would be no need for another complete shutdown .
Some people warned the economic consequences of a shutdown would be devastating while others questioned if a third or fourth lockdown would happen if ministers felt it was the only way to reduce transmission of COVID-19 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ will there be ” until Britons can return to normal life .
He added : “ Will this be a continuing cycle until immunity builds up or a vaccine becomes available ?
“ And each time our ability to afford it as a country becomes more difficult and takes away from being able to treat people with other dangerous diseases or health problems.
” Another opponent said : “ We ca n't stay in lockdown forever and we do n't know when or if a vaccine will be available .
“ Enforce the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lockdown.
” And a third reader said : “ Then what ?
A third , a fourth , fifth , sixth ?
We ca n't keep on locking down .
“ Accept it for what it is - a non-deadly virus , unless you suffer from other issues .
DO N'T MISS Coronavirus antibody : How many people have antibodies ?
[ EXPLAINED ] Sadiq Khan snubbed : Mayor 'dismayed ' at not being invited to Cobra [ INSIGHT ] Coronavirus pub curfew : Boris demands pubs slam doors shut at 10pm [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't expect others to do it for you , it will never happen.
” One worried reader said they feared a second lockdown would wreak havoc on the country ’ s financial health and damage the immunity of much of the population .
They said : “ Lockdowns are ruining the economy , destroying our built-in human capacity to fight off viruses and have diminished our natural immunity !
“ These lockdowns are going to cause more cases , more infections from lots of other viruses , more suicides , more domestic and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths - in the long run.
” Another person said the coronavirus crisis had transitioned from a public health crisis to a political one , as ministers slap strict rules on people at short notice .
They wrote : “ It has gone beyond a health crisis , it 's now a political one .
“ Boris is turning into a dictator , and has to be reined in before he destroys the entire economy of the UK.
” Ahead of the Cobra meeting tomorrow , Mr Johnson on Monday discussed the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford , Northern Ireland 's First Minister Arlene Foster , and Northern Ireland 's Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill .

Boris Johnson warns UK of the 'disaster' of a second lockdown
After he chairs the meeting on Tuesday, the Prime Minister is expected to give a sombre address to the nation in which he will announce new measures designed to curb the number of COVID-19 infections. As Britons brace for a possible second shutdown, Express.co.uk conducted a poll asking readers if there should be a repeat of the rules rolled on in March.
Trending
Asked if Mr Johnson should impose another lockdown, six in 10 respondents (4,805) said no while nearly four in 10 (3,041) said yes. Just two percent (259) of the 8,105 readers who voted said they were not sure. Many people called for restrictions to be enforced in a stronger way, with rule-breakers punished. They argued that if everyone abided by the “rule of six” and wore a mask in shops and on public transport there would be no need for another complete shutdown.
Coronavirus second wave: The PM has been urged to not impose a second lockdown
Government advisers Chris Whitty and Sir Patrick Vallance pictured on Monday
Some people warned the economic consequences of a shutdown would be devastating while others questioned if a third or fourth lockdown would happen if ministers felt it was the only way to reduce transmission of COVID-19. One reader questioned “how many lockdowns will there be” until Britons can return to normal life. He added: “Will this be a continuing cycle until immunity builds up or a vaccine becomes available? “And each time our ability to afford it as a country becomes more difficult and takes away from being able to treat people with other dangerous diseases or health problems.” READ MORE: Coronavirus map LIVE: Boris plans sombre address amid lockdown fears
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The Prime Minister will chair a Cobra meeting on Tuesday
Some readers called for coronavirus restrictions to be enforced in a stronger way
“Protect yourself and don't expect others to do it for you, it will never happen.” One worried reader said they feared a second lockdown would wreak havoc on the country’s financial health and damage the immunity of much of the population. They said: “Lockdowns are ruining the economy, destroying our built-in human capacity to fight off viruses and have diminished our natural immunity! “These lockdowns are going to cause more cases, more infections from lots of other viruses, more suicides, more domestic and child abuse, more depression and more deaths - in the long run.”
UK coronavirus map
Another person said the coronavirus crisis had transitioned from a public health crisis to a political one, as ministers slap strict rules on people at short notice. They wrote: “It has gone beyond a health crisis, it's now a political one. “Boris is turning into a dictator, and has to be reined in before he destroys the entire economy of the UK.” Ahead of the Cobra meeting tomorrow, Mr Johnson on Monday discussed the coronavirus response with Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford, Northern Ireland's First Minister Arlene Foster, and Northern Ireland's Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill.
A waitress clears tables in a packed London street last weekend


thedailyexpress--2020-09-21--Nicola Sturgeon embarrassed: Independence hopes dashed as EU cant make promise to Scotland

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The Bruges Group 's Dr Niall McCrae argued there was a key flaw in Nicola Sturgeon 's plan for independence .
During an interview with Express.co.uk , Dr McCrae said the SNP leader would not be able to win independence and then easily rejoin the EU .
He claimed the EU would not be able to promise it would be a simple shift @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the objections of Spain .
Dr Niall McCrae said : `` The EU has given all sorts of positive messages about Scotland rejoining .
`` But in reality that is not going to happen .
`` That is because the last thing the EU wants is to be seen to be encouraging successionist movements .
`` Spain would be up in arms if Scotland is simply allowed straight into the EU if it was to gain independence .
DO N'T MISS : Sturgeon humiliated : SNP further than they think on independence

Scotland rejoining the EU is ‘not going to happen’ says expert
The Bruges Group's Dr Niall McCrae argued there was a key flaw in Nicola Sturgeon's plan for independence. During an interview with Express.co.uk, Dr McCrae said the SNP leader would not be able to win independence and then easily rejoin the EU. He claimed the EU would not be able to promise it would be a simple shift back to becoming a member state due to the objections of Spain.
Trending
Dr Niall McCrae said: "The EU has given all sorts of positive messages about Scotland rejoining. "But in reality that is not going to happen. "That is because the last thing the EU wants is to be seen to be encouraging successionist movements. "Spain would be up in arms if Scotland is simply allowed straight into the EU if it was to gain independence. DON'T MISS: Sturgeon humiliated: SNP further than they think on independence
Nicola Sturgeon embarrassed: Independence hopes dashed as EU cant afford Scotland promise
Nicola Sturgeon is set to be humiliated as a Brexiteer argues the EU would not be able to make a promise to the Scottish leader seeking independence.
"Spain have their Catalan region that would love to do something similar. Dr McCrae also noted why it was unlikely Scotland would gain a referendum anytime soon. He said: "In reality, a referendum is going to be many years away if it happens. "At the moment we have seen a surge for independence in Scotland, polls consistently show over 50 percent in favour of it.
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Nicola Sturgeon: Dr McCrae also noted why it was unlikely Scotland would gain a referendum anytime soon.
Nicola Sturgeon hits out at ‘frustrating’ delay to COBRA meeting
Nicola Sturgeon: The Brexiteer also outlined some benefits Scotland could expect as part of Britain after Brexit.


thedailyexpress--2020-09-21--EU panic: Commission in desperate plea as Brexit deadline looms - UK on brink of no deal

Speaking after a meeting of trade ministers in Berlin , Mr Dombrovskis said : “ There are many outstanding issues .
`` Progress on a number of key EU asks so far is not sufficient .
`` So we would need to intensify negotiations substantially if we are to reach a successful outcome .
“ The alternative of a no deal Brexit is not appealing , but we can not exclude it.
” Mr Dombrovskis 's comments came after European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said she was `` convinced '' a trade deal remains possible .
But she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Market Bill had `` distracted very strongly '' from the two sides being able to secure fresh trade terms before the looming deadline .
MPs were debating the proposed legislation in the Commons today .
The post-Brexit transition period , during which relations between the European Union and the UK have remained static , ends on December 31 and leaders from both sides of warn an agreement is needed by October if a deal is to be ratified in time for the start of 2021 .
With the cliff edge only a month @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at home and on the world stage for pursuing legislation that would defy the withdrawal agreement brokered with the EU last year , breaking international law in the process .
READ MORE : Brexit LIVE : Leavers react with fury to Theresa May 's intervention Mr Johnson agreed to table an amendment to the Internal Market Bill , giving MPs a vote before the Government can use the powers related to Northern Ireland which would breach the treaty .
But the compromise has not seen Brussels back down , with Eric Mamer , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ insisting its position had not changed and it still wanted the offending clauses to be withdrawn from the legislation .
Despite the wrangle over the Bill - which has been derided by every living former prime minister , scores of senior Tory backbenchers , US Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden and Brussels - Commission president Ms von der Leyen said she remained sure that consensus on a future partnership with the UK could be reached .
Ms von der Leyen said : `` Where the UK is concerned , we want an agreement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ violate the withdrawal agreement distracted very strongly from the ongoing negotiations .
This was an unpleasant surprise .
`` And therefore it is time now that our British friends restore the trust in the validity of a signature under treaty , and that we keep on going , focused to negotiate because time is running out . ''
Ms von der Leyen said she was `` still convinced '' a deal with London `` can be done '' .
DO N'T MISS Boris ordered to resist EU fishing demands or 'suffer consequences ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as Lib Dems drop EU membership pledge [ SPOTLIGHT ] Boris was right !
Trade expert Liam Fox puts EU in place over Brexit [ ANALYSIS ]

Brexit: Voters 'still support Boris in getting a deal' says expert
European Commission Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis, who is replacing Ireland’s Phil Hogan as EU trade chief, said it was impossible to rule out insufficient progress causing a no deal outcome.
The alternative of a no deal Brexit is not appealing, but we cannot exclude it Valdis Dombrovskis
Speaking after a meeting of trade ministers in Berlin, Mr Dombrovskis said: “There are many outstanding issues. "Progress on a number of key EU asks so far is not sufficient. "So we would need to intensify negotiations substantially if we are to reach a successful outcome. “The alternative of a no deal Brexit is not appealing, but we cannot exclude it.”
Valdis Dombrovskis has warned of insufficient progress in Brexit talks
Mr Dombrovskis's comments came after European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said she was "convinced" a trade deal remains possible. But she warned Downing Street's controversial UK Internal Market Bill had "distracted very strongly" from the two sides being able to secure fresh trade terms before the looming deadline. MPs were debating the proposed legislation in the Commons today. The post-Brexit transition period, during which relations between the European Union and the UK have remained static, ends on December 31 and leaders from both sides of warn an agreement is needed by October if a deal is to be ratified in time for the start of 2021. With the cliff edge only a month away, Boris Johnson has faced criticism at home and on the world stage for pursuing legislation that would defy the withdrawal agreement brokered with the EU last year, breaking international law in the process. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: Leavers react with fury to Theresa May's intervention
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Valdis Dombrovskis said a no deal Brexit could not be ruled out
Ursula von der Leyen said she was convinced a deal could be done
Mr Johnson agreed to table an amendment to the Internal Market Bill, giving MPs a vote before the Government can use the powers related to Northern Ireland which would breach the treaty. But the compromise has not seen Brussels back down, with Eric Mamer, chief spokesman for the European Commission, insisting its position had not changed and it still wanted the offending clauses to be withdrawn from the legislation. Despite the wrangle over the Bill - which has been derided by every living former prime minister, scores of senior Tory backbenchers, US Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden and Brussels - Commission president Ms von der Leyen said she remained sure that consensus on a future partnership with the UK could be reached.
Trending
Ms von der Leyen said: "Where the UK is concerned, we want an agreement, and I think the attempt to violate the withdrawal agreement distracted very strongly from the ongoing negotiations. This was an unpleasant surprise. "And therefore it is time now that our British friends restore the trust in the validity of a signature under treaty, and that we keep on going, focused to negotiate because time is running out." Ms von der Leyen said she was "still convinced" a deal with London "can be done". DON'T MISS
Boris ordered to resist EU fishing demands or 'suffer consequences'[FOCUS]
Remainers FINALLY get it as Lib Dems drop EU membership pledge[SPOTLIGHT]
Boris was right! Trade expert Liam Fox puts EU in place over Brexit[ANALYSIS]
Boris Johnson has introduced a Bill which overrides the Brexit withdrawal agreement


thedailyexpress--2020-09-22--Boris Johnson speech in full: UK reaches 'perilous turning point' as second wave hits

Prime Minister Boris Johnson spoke to the House of Commons this afternoon , cautioning of the `` perilous turning point '' the UK had reached .
He outlined the restrictions imposed to stop the deadly spike in coronavirus cases , but made clear this was `` not a return to the full lockdown of March . ''
The Prime Minister called on office workers to work from home where possible and said from Monday no more than 15 people will be able to attend wedding ceremonies and receptions , in a tightening of the “ rule of six ” .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ afraid to initiate stricter measures should the infection rates fail to fall .
Mr Johnson also said people working in retail , those travelling in taxis , and staff and customers in indoor hospitality except while seated at a table to eat or drink would have to wear face coverings .
The PM will address the nation tonight at 8pm , going into more detail about the restrictions .
Read More : Coronavirus hotspots MAPPED : Where will COVID spike next ?
• For Britain we need to fight this LOCKDOWN TYRANNY – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ speech today in full Mr Johnson said : `` We must act now to avoid still graver consequences later on .
He said the Government had found a `` delicate balance '' during the pandemic so far , and the `` common sense and fortitude '' of the British people helped to avoid `` an even worse catastrophe '' .
He continued : `` But we always knew that while we had driven the virus into retreat we always knew the prospect of a second wave was real '' adding the UK has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Mr Johnson said : `` Yesterday the Chief Medical Officer and Chief Scientific Adviser warned that the doubling rate could be between seven and 20 days , with the possibility of tens of thousand of infections per days . ''
`` Yesterday the UK 's covid alert level was raised from three to four , meaning that transmission is high or rising exponentially .
`` So this is the moment when we must act .
`` If we can curb the number of daily infections and reduce the reproduction rate to one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NHS and the most vulnerable and shelter the economy from the far sterner measures that would inevitably come .
`` We 're acting on the principle that a stitch in time saves nine .
`` I want to stress this is by no means a return to the full lockdown of March .
`` We will ensure that schools , colleges and universities stay open because nothing is more important than the health and wellbeing of our young people .
However we must take action to suppress the disease . ''
DO N'T @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What time is Scotland update ?
[ EXPLAINED ] Boris Johnson confirms UK 's elderly will NOT be forced to shield [ INSIGHT ] Coronavirus symptoms update : Prolonged common condition warning [ ANALYSIS ] • Face mask rules : Who has to wear face masks now - what are the rules ?
`` First , we are once again asking office workers to work from home where they can do so .
`` Second , from Thursday , all pubs , bars and restaurants must operate at table service only except for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ venues they must close from 10pm .
That means alas closing and not just calling for last orders , because simplicity is paramount .
`` I 'm sorry this will affect many businesses just getting back on their feet but we must act .
`` Third , we will extend the requirement to wear face coverings to include staff in retail , customers in taxis , and customers in indoor hospitality settings , except when seated at tables .
`` Fourth , in retail , leisure and tourism and other sectors our Covid-secure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` These measures will only work if people comply and there is nothing more frustrating for the law-abiding majority than the sight of a few brazenly defying the rules .
`` So these rules will be enforced by tighter penalties . ''
`` I want to speak to those who were shielding earlier in the pandemic and may be anxious .
`` Our guidance continues to be that you do not need to shield except in local lockdown areas and we will keep this under constant review . ''
Mr Johnson warned the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` greater firepower , with significantly greater restrictions '' , but insists he `` fervently '' wants to avoid this step .
`` We will only be able to avoid it if our new measures work , and our behaviour changes .
`` We will spare no effort in developing vaccines , treatments , new forms of mass testings .
But unless we palpably make progress , we should assume that the restrictions I have announced will stay in place for six months .
`` This virus is a fact of our lives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the country that our fight against it will continue . ''
The Prime Minister added `` the vast majority '' of the UK economy can continue moving forwards , and stated the Government is now better prepared for a second wave .
He said : `` It now falls to each of us - and every one of us - to remember the basics .
Wash our hands , cover our faces , observe social distancing and follow the rules .
`` Then we can fight back against this virus , shelter our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most vulnerable in care homes , safeguard our NHS and save many more lives . ''

Boris Johnson reveals 'tighter' penalties for COVID-19 rules
Prime Minister Boris Johnson spoke to the House of Commons this afternoon, cautioning of the "perilous turning point" the UK had reached. He outlined the restrictions imposed to stop the deadly spike in coronavirus cases, but made clear this was "not a return to the full lockdown of March."
Trending
The Prime Minister called on office workers to work from home where possible and said from Monday no more than 15 people will be able to attend wedding ceremonies and receptions, in a tightening of the “rule of six”. He cautioned the Government would not be afraid to initiate stricter measures should the infection rates fail to fall. Mr Johnson also said people working in retail, those travelling in taxis, and staff and customers in indoor hospitality except while seated at a table to eat or drink would have to wear face coverings. The PM will address the nation tonight at 8pm, going into more detail about the restrictions. Read More: Coronavirus hotspots MAPPED: Where will COVID spike next?
Boris Johnson speech today in full: Boris Johnson addressed the Commons today
READ MORE For Britain we need to fight this LOCKDOWN TYRANNY – NIGEL FARAGE Here is Boris Johnson's speech today in full Mr Johnson said: "We must act now to avoid still graver consequences later on. He said the Government had found a "delicate balance" during the pandemic so far, and the "common sense and fortitude" of the British people helped to avoid "an even worse catastrophe". He continued: "But we always knew that while we had driven the virus into retreat we always knew the prospect of a second wave was real" adding the UK has reached a "perilous tipping point". Mr Johnson said: "Yesterday the Chief Medical Officer and Chief Scientific Adviser warned that the doubling rate could be between seven and 20 days, with the possibility of tens of thousand of infections per days."
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Boris Johnson speech in full: The PM announced a clamp down on the rule of six
Boris Johnson speech in full: Coronavirus cases have been dangerously climbing over the past few weeks
"Yesterday the UK's covid alert level was raised from three to four, meaning that transmission is high or rising exponentially. "So this is the moment when we must act. "If we can curb the number of daily infections and reduce the reproduction rate to one we can save lives, protect the NHS and the most vulnerable and shelter the economy from the far sterner measures that would inevitably come. "We're acting on the principle that a stitch in time saves nine. "I want to stress this is by no means a return to the full lockdown of March. "We will ensure that schools, colleges and universities stay open because nothing is more important than the health and wellbeing of our young people. However we must take action to suppress the disease." DON'T MISS
Nicola Sturgeon daily briefing today: What time is Scotland update? [EXPLAINED]
Boris Johnson confirms UK's elderly will NOT be forced to shield [INSIGHT]
Coronavirus symptoms update: Prolonged common condition warning [ANALYSIS]
READ MORE Face mask rules: Who has to wear face masks now - what are the rules? "First, we are once again asking office workers to work from home where they can do so. "Second, from Thursday, all pubs, bars and restaurants must operate at table service only except for takeaways. "Together with all hospitality venues they must close from 10pm. That means alas closing and not just calling for last orders, because simplicity is paramount. "I'm sorry this will affect many businesses just getting back on their feet but we must act. "Third, we will extend the requirement to wear face coverings to include staff in retail, customers in taxis, and customers in indoor hospitality settings, except when seated at tables. "Fourth, in retail, leisure and tourism and other sectors our Covid-secure guidelines will become legal obligations."
Boris Johnson speech in full: MPs heard the Government's plan to tackle the spread of coronavirus
"These measures will only work if people comply and there is nothing more frustrating for the law-abiding majority than the sight of a few brazenly defying the rules. "So these rules will be enforced by tighter penalties." "I want to speak to those who were shielding earlier in the pandemic and may be anxious. "Our guidance continues to be that you do not need to shield except in local lockdown areas and we will keep this under constant review." Mr Johnson warned the Government will not be afraid to deploy "greater firepower, with significantly greater restrictions", but insists he "fervently" wants to avoid this step. "We will only be able to avoid it if our new measures work, and our behaviour changes.


thedailyexpress--2020-09-22--Boris Johnson offers coronavirus lifeline as UK's elderly will NOT be forced to shield

The Prime Minister stated that following advice from senior medical advisers the Government had decided that vulnerable people will not be asked to shield unless under a local lockdown .
Mr Johnson added that this latest coronavirus measure will be kept under constant review throughout the COVID-19 pandemic .
The Prime Minister said : `` I want to speak directly to those who were shielding earlier in the pandemic and who may be anxious at being at greater risk .
`` Following advice from our senior clinicians our guidance continues to be that you do not need to shield except @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will keep this under constant review . ''
Mr Johnson added : `` We are taking decisive and appropriate steps to balance saving lives with protecting jobs and livelihoods .
READ MORE : Sky 's Sophy Ridge lashes out at Keir Starmer over 'unrealistic ' demand '' I know all of this will have profound consequences for our constituents so the Government will give the House every opportunity to scrutinise our decisions in addition to regular statements and debates , honourable members will be able to question the Government 's scientific advisers more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ House of Commons in his speech : `` I fervently want to avoid taking this step , as do the devolved administrations but we will only be able to avoid it if our new measures work and our behaviour changes .
`` We will spare no effort in developing vaccines , treatments , new forms of mass-testing but unless we palpably make progress we should assume that the restrictions that I have announced will remain in place for perhaps six months .
`` For the time being , this virus is a fact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the House and the country that our fight against it will continue .
Yesterday during an urgent coronavirus briefing the Chief Medical Officer for England outlined several ways the COVID-19 virus will harm the population 's health as he issued a plea to Britons to follow the latest social distancing rules .
Chris Whitty said : `` There are four ways in which this virus is going to have a potentially significant effect on the population 's health if we let it go out of control .
`` Firstly , the easiest to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that get the virus and die of the virus .
`` The second would be if the NHS and emergency services were overwhelmed by a huge spike .
`` That is what the extraordinary efforts of the population stopped from happening in the first wave .
London anti-lockdown protest : Clashes with police turn violent [ INSIGHT ] Coronavirus map LIVE : Boris plans sombre address amid lockdown fears [ LIVE ] Macron widely seen to have 'bungled ' France 's coronavirus response [ ANALYSIS ] '' The third however is very important @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be understated which is if the NHS is having to spend a large proportion of its efforts in trying to treat COVID cases , it will lead to a reduction in treatment for other areas such as early diagnoses for disease and for prevention programmes .
`` So there is an indirect effect on deaths and on illness from this impact on the NHS if we allow the numbers to raise fast . ''
Prof Whitty continued : `` On the other side we know that some of the things we have had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the economy , social impacts , impacts on mental health and therefore all of society has to walk this very difficult balance .
`` If we do too little this virus will go out of control and we will get significant numbers of direct and indirect deaths .
`` But if we go too far the other way we can cause damage to the economy which can feed through to unemployment and poverty which have long term health effects . ''

Boris Johnson says people will no longer be forced to shield
The Prime Minister stated that following advice from senior medical advisers the Government had decided that vulnerable people will not be asked to shield unless under a local lockdown. Mr Johnson added that this latest coronavirus measure will be kept under constant review throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
Trending
The Prime Minister said: "I want to speak directly to those who were shielding earlier in the pandemic and who may be anxious at being at greater risk. "Following advice from our senior clinicians our guidance continues to be that you do not need to shield except in local lockdown areas. "We will keep this under constant review." Mr Johnson added: "We are taking decisive and appropriate steps to balance saving lives with protecting jobs and livelihoods. READ MORE: Sky's Sophy Ridge lashes out at Keir Starmer over 'unrealistic' demand
Boris Johnson has been Prime Minister since 2019
Boris Johnson stated that vulnerable people will only be asked to shield in a local lockdown
"I know all of this will have profound consequences for our constituents so the Government will give the House every opportunity to scrutinise our decisions in addition to regular statements and debates, honourable members will be able to question the Government's scientific advisers more regularly." He also told the House of Commons in his speech: "I fervently want to avoid taking this step, as do the devolved administrations but we will only be able to avoid it if our new measures work and our behaviour changes. "We will spare no effort in developing vaccines, treatments, new forms of mass-testing but unless we palpably make progress we should assume that the restrictions that I have announced will remain in place for perhaps six months. "For the time being, this virus is a fact of our lives and I must tell the House and the country that our fight against it will continue.
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Boris Johnson warns coronavirus rules may last six months
Yesterday during an urgent coronavirus briefing the Chief Medical Officer for England outlined several ways the COVID-19 virus will harm the population's health as he issued a plea to Britons to follow the latest social distancing rules. Chris Whitty said: "There are four ways in which this virus is going to have a potentially significant effect on the population's health if we let it go out of control. "Firstly, the easiest to identify is direct COVID deaths, people that get the virus and die of the virus. "The second would be if the NHS and emergency services were overwhelmed by a huge spike. "That is what the extraordinary efforts of the population stopped from happening in the first wave. DON'T MISS London anti-lockdown protest: Clashes with police turn violent [INSIGHT]
Coronavirus map LIVE: Boris plans sombre address amid lockdown fears [LIVE]
Macron widely seen to have 'bungled' France's coronavirus response [ANALYSIS]
Boris Johnson stated that the current measure could be in place for up to six months