thedailyexpress--2020-12-08--Nicola Sturgeon urged to include third ‘home-rule’ option in independence vote

Scottish Labour has suggested that if another independence vote ever occurred it should include a “ home-rule '' option which could see Scotland remain part of the UK but have more political power .
The concept is similar to Greenland , which was granted `` home rule '' from Denmark in 1979 and was seen as a stepping stone to achieving full independence .
Greenland is responsible for the majority of policy areas including policing , the judicial system , aviation , border controls as well as financial regulation and supervision .
However , Denmark still retains control of monetary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The concept was put forward by party leader Richard Leonard who said it was “ very likely ” the party would support the inclusion of a third option on a ballot paper which would give voters the chance to back more powers for Holyrood .
Mr Leonard claimed : `` I think there is a wider point which has come out in the last few months which is about the imbalance of power which still exists.
” He argued the UK was “ still extremely centralised ” claiming political power was focused “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Westminster and Whitehall.
” Sir Keir Starmer is set to set out views on Scottish independence on Friday .
The latest poll undertaken by Ipsos Mori puts Scottish Labour third in the Holyrood race with 14 percent of constituency votes and 16 percent of regional list votes .
This means the party is set to lose four seats next spring on current projections .
READ MORE : Sturgeon blow : Sir John Curtice warns SNP independence far from sure At the same time , Gordon Brown claimed Scots would not vote for Scottish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Scots would vote to remain part the UK in another referendum but warned it would be a `` hard battle '' to keep the union together .
Mr Brown said : `` I think if there was a referendum , we 'd win and Scotland would stay in the United Kingdom .
`` But it 's got to be a hard battle because people are frustrated , they 're fed up , not just in Scotland , but in the regions of England and Wales . ''
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Labour are ‘lost’ in Scotland says Tony Miklinski
Scottish Labour has hinted that if another independence vote ever occurred it should include a “home-rule" option which could see Scotland remain part of the UK but have more political power. The concept is similar to Greenland, which was granted "home rule" from Denmark in 1979 and was seen as a stepping stone to achieving full independence.
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Greenland is responsible for the majority of policy areas including policing, the judicial system, aviation, border controls as well as financial regulation and supervision. However, Denmark still retains control of monetary policy and foreign affairs including defence. According to The Times, the concept was put forward by party leader Richard Leonard who hinted the party could support the inclusion of a third option on a ballot paper which would give voters the chance to back more powers for Holyrood. Mr Leonard claimed: "I think there is a wider point which has come out in the last few months which is about the imbalance of power which still exists.”
Mr Leonard wants to introduce a third option to any future referendum
Ms Sturgeon has pledged that a second referendum could take place next year
He argued the UK was “still extremely centralised” claiming political power was focused “around the city of London and around Westminster and Whitehall.” Sir Keir Starmer is set to set out views on Scottish independence on Friday. The latest poll undertaken by Ipsos Mori puts Scottish Labour third in the Holyrood race with 14 percent of constituency votes and 16 percent of regional list votes. This means the party is set to lose four seats next spring on current projections. READ MORE: Sturgeon blow: Sir John Curtice warns SNP independence far from sure
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British Labour Party leader Keir Starmer is expected to outline a new devolution offer this week
At the same time, Gordon Brown claimed Scots would not vote for Scottish independence. The former prime minister predicted that Scots would vote to remain part the UK in another referendum but warned it would be a "hard battle" to keep the union together. Mr Brown said: "I think if there was a referendum, we'd win and Scotland would stay in the United Kingdom. "But it's got to be a hard battle because people are frustrated, they're fed up, not just in Scotland, but in the regions of England and Wales." DON'T MISS:
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The majority of Scottish people now believe that Scotland should be independent


thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--Boris keeps up pressure on EU as MPs vote to restore key clauses in Internal Market Bill

In the House of Commons , MPs voted in favour of reinstating clauses to the Bill after rejecting series of amendments by the House of Lords .
The legislation – which contains sections to give ministers the power to break international law – aims to protect trade between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK if there is no formal trade deal with the EU .
MPs voted on a series of amendments tabled by peers – the most significant being Clause 47 relating to customs arrangements and state aid in Northern Ireland .
It was passed by 357 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ votes in parliament .
A formal vote was not required to reinsert clauses 42 , 43 , 44 , 45 and 46 - after they were previously removed by peers .
In another vote MPs rejected an amendment - by a majority of 94 - to make changes to the so-called common frameworks .
The Internal Market Bill will now return to the House of Lords for a second time .
The EU argues the Bill undermines parts of the Northern Ireland protocol signed in the Brexit withdrawal agreement in January .
Under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give the UK Government the power to unilaterally determine which goods are at risk of entering the EU single market and therefore require export declarations .
Before the vote , the Government offered an olive branch to the EU and said it would be prepared to remove the clauses relating to Northern Ireland and state aid .
Earlier , Business minister Paul Scully explained the Government wants to retain these clauses in their current form in the Bill until discussions with the EU `` have successfully concluded '' .
Speaking to MPs , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were originally introduced , the UK and EU have worked constructively together through the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee discussions , which continue to progress and final decisions are expected in the coming days .
`` I can confirm today that if the solutions being considered in those discussions are agreed , the UK Government would be prepared to remove clause 44 from this Bill , concerning export declarations .
`` The UK Government would also be prepared to deactivate clauses 45 and 47 , concerning state aid such that they could be used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's rights and obligation under international law . ''
READ MORE : Brexit LIVE : Remainers delight at Macron 's demands for extension He added : `` But whilst we are hopeful of success , it is only prudent that until such a time as these discussions have successfully concluded , we retain these clauses in their current form as a fall-back option . ''
The crucial vote came just hours after Boris Johnson and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen agreed to meet in Brussels to try and salvage a post-Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the EU chief over the telephone for 90 minutes this afternoon just 48 hours after they held talks for an hour on Saturday .
Both sides acknowledged outstanding remained over fisheries , governance and the so-called level playing field on trade .
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Brexit: Johnson and von der Leyen release trade talks statement
In the House of Commons, MPs voted in favour of reinstating clauses to the Bill after rejecting series of amendments by the House of Lords. The legislation – which contains sections to give ministers the power to break international law – aims to protect trade between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK if there is no formal trade deal with the EU.
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MPs voted on a series of amendments tabled by peers – the most significant being Clause 47 relating to customs arrangements and state aid in Northern Ireland. It was passed by 357 to 268 - a majority of 89 votes in parliament. A formal vote was not required to reinsert clauses 42, 43, 44, 45 and 46 - after they were previously removed by peers. In another vote MPs rejected an amendment - by a majority of 94 - to make changes to the so-called common frameworks.
Brexit news: MPs have voted in favour of the Internal Market Bill
The deputy speaker announced a majority of 89 for the key clause in the Bill
The Internal Market Bill will now return to the House of Lords for a second time. The EU argues the Bill undermines parts of the Northern Ireland protocol signed in the Brexit withdrawal agreement in January. Under the terms of the Bill it would give the UK Government the power to unilaterally determine which goods are at risk of entering the EU single market and therefore require export declarations. Before the vote, the Government offered an olive branch to the EU and said it would be prepared to remove the clauses relating to Northern Ireland and state aid.
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Boris Johnson held further talks with Ursula von der Leyen this afternoon
Earlier, Business minister Paul Scully explained the Government wants to retain these clauses in their current form in the Bill until discussions with the EU "have successfully concluded". Speaking to MPs, he said: "Since these clauses were originally introduced, the UK and EU have worked constructively together through the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee discussions, which continue to progress and final decisions are expected in the coming days. "I can confirm today that if the solutions being considered in those discussions are agreed, the UK Government would be prepared to remove clause 44 from this Bill, concerning export declarations. "The UK Government would also be prepared to deactivate clauses 45 and 47, concerning state aid such that they could be used only when consisted with the United Kingdom's rights and obligation under international law." READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: Remainers delight at Macron's demands for extension
Brexit negotiators David Frost and Michel Barnier resumed talks in Brusels on Monday
He added: "But whilst we are hopeful of success, it is only prudent that until such a time as these discussions have successfully concluded, we retain these clauses in their current form as a fall-back option." The crucial vote came just hours after Boris Johnson and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen agreed to meet in Brussels to try and salvage a post-Brexit trade deal. The Prime Minister spoke with the EU chief over the telephone for 90 minutes this afternoon just 48 hours after they held talks for an hour on Saturday. Both sides acknowledged outstanding remained over fisheries, governance and the so-called level playing field on trade. DON'T MISS Penny Mordaunt laughs at SNP chief in brutal Commons clash on Brexit [VIDEO]
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A timeline of Brexit talks between the UK and EU


thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--No deal Brexit likely: EU starts ‘contingency planning’ instead of ‘necessary compromises'

According to Ireland 's Foreign Minister , the EU has now stepped up no deal preparations over fears an agreement will not be reached before the end of this month .
Although talks will continue this week , he claimed the `` mood '' in Brussels had now moved towards planning for a no deal rather than finding a compromise to reach a trade agreement .
He said : `` I think there is a great deal of frustration on the EU side , not just within the EU negotiating team , but also across member states .
`` Many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are just getting increasingly frustrated and increasingly resigned to the fact that there may be no deal .
`` In Brussels , the mood is starting to shift to contingency planning for a no deal as opposed to the compromises that are necessary to get a deal done '' .
Today , the Irish official had also warned Wednesday was the final deadline for a deal to be agreed .
He also called for further intervention at the national level in order to break the deadlock .
He said earlier today : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Council meeting and I think if there is no deal by Thursday , then leaders within the EU will certainly start to think about contingency planning for a no trade deal Brexit . ''
Today , Boris Johnson and EU Commission President , Ursula von der Leyen , held a call to discuss the current state of play .
It was the second call the two have held in the last week and lasted for 90 minutes with both concluding the areas of divergence still remain .
Mr Johnson will now travel to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the current impasse between the two sides .
JUST IN : Brexit LIVE : Remainers delight at Macron 's demands for extension EU leaders had hoped a deal could be reached in time for the EU summit on December 10 before it is then passed to the European Parliament for ratification .
UK officials have also expressed the conclusion talks will fail and the two sides will not agree a deal before the end of the transition period .
One UK source said : `` Talks are in the same position now as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have made no tangible progress .
It 's clear this must now continue politically .
Brexit deal NOT complete : Boris agrees to travel to Brussels to cli ... [ Latest ] Brexiteer says level playing field ‘ real guts ’ of Brexit talks [ Insight ] EU ‘ behaved unreasonably from beginning ’ says David Davis [ Comment ] '' Whilst we do not consider this process to be closed , things are looking very tricky and there 's every chance we are not going to get there . ''
It is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during a meeting with MEPs today .
The EU needs any deal to be ratified by both the European Parliament and due to its nature , national governments .
Due to the short timetable , Brussels may ask national government to ratify the deal at a later date in order for it to be implemented as soon as possible .

Brexit: UK 'entitled to terminate' WAB says Bill Clash
According to Ireland's Foreign Minister, the EU has now stepped up no deal preparations over fears an agreement will not be reached before the end of this month. Although talks will continue this week, he claimed the "mood" in Brussels had now moved towards planning for a no deal rather than finding a compromise to reach a trade agreement. He said: "I think there is a great deal of frustration on the EU side, not just within the EU negotiating team, but also across member states.
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"Many of the ministers I spoke to today are just getting increasingly frustrated and increasingly resigned to the fact that there may be no deal. "In Brussels, the mood is starting to shift to contingency planning for a no deal as opposed to the compromises that are necessary to get a deal done". Today, the Irish official had also warned Wednesday was the final deadline for a deal to be agreed. He also called for further intervention at the national level in order to break the deadlock.
EU fearing no deal Brexit
Brexit news: Boris Johnson held a second call today
He said earlier today: "Beyond Wednesday we're into a European Council meeting and I think if there is no deal by Thursday, then leaders within the EU will certainly start to think about contingency planning for a no trade deal Brexit." Today, Boris Johnson and EU Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, held a call to discuss the current state of play. It was the second call the two have held in the last week and lasted for 90 minutes with both concluding the areas of divergence still remain. Mr Johnson will now travel to Brussels in order to attempt to break the current impasse between the two sides. JUST IN: Brexit LIVE: Remainers delight at Macron's demands for extension
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Brexit news: He will travel to Brussels this week
EU leaders had hoped a deal could be reached in time for the EU summit on December 10 before it is then passed to the European Parliament for ratification. UK officials have also expressed the conclusion talks will fail and the two sides will not agree a deal before the end of the transition period. One UK source said: "Talks are in the same position now as they were on Friday. "We have made no tangible progress. It's clear this must now continue politically. DON'T MISS Brexit deal NOT complete: Boris agrees to travel to Brussels to cli... [Latest]
Brexiteer says level playing field ‘real guts’ of Brexit talks [Insight]
EU ‘behaved unreasonably from beginning’ says David Davis [Comment]
Brexit news: Ursula von der Leyen also spoke to the Prime Minister on Saturday
Brexit news: Michel Barnier returned to Brussels on Saturday
"Whilst we do not consider this process to be closed, things are looking very tricky and there's every chance we are not going to get there." It is thought Mr Barnier revealed the Wednesday deadline during a meeting with MEPs today. The EU needs any deal to be ratified by both the European Parliament and due to its nature, national governments. Due to the short timetable, Brussels may ask national government to ratify the deal at a later date in order for it to be implemented as soon as possible.
Brexit endgame
The areas of divergence being the level playing field, the dispute mechanism and fisheries have all remained throughout crunch talks. It is thought the EU's chief negotiator was pressured not to back down to the UK's demands over fisheries last week.
Brexit news: Lord Frost


thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--Nigel Farage hits back at BBC host as she suggests UK 'compromise' with EU on Brexit deal

The UK will either `` cave in or walk '' from Brexit negotiations , Nigel Farage has said .
Speaking to BBC News , the Brexit Party leader warned the UK Government was on the verge of achieving `` Brexit in name only '' .
However , he clashed with correspondent Reeta Chakrabarti , who hinted `` compromise '' may be necessary in talks between Britain and the EU .
She said : `` The way in which you speak is as if you think it is a choice between either caving in or just leaving without a deal .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of negotiations , is n't it ?
It 's about trying to find a compromise between the two sides . ''
Mr Farage shot back : `` Well it 's tough to compromise when you 've signed up to a new EU treaty that commits you , in a whole host of areas , to something that can only be described as Brexit in name only .
`` So you sum up my position perfectly : either we cave in or we walk .
I think that 's exactly where we are right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Japan deal is 'kind UK needs ' as they 'value quality ' says NFU

Brexit: Nigel Farage clashes with BBC presenter on 'compromise'
The UK will either "cave in or walk" from Brexit negotiations, Nigel Farage has said. Speaking to BBC News, the Brexit Party leader warned the UK Government was on the verge of achieving "Brexit in name only". However, he clashed with correspondent Reeta Chakrabarti, who hinted "compromise" may be necessary in talks between Britain and the EU.
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She said: "The way in which you speak is as if you think it is a choice between either caving in or just leaving without a deal. "I mean this is the point of negotiations, isn't it? It's about trying to find a compromise between the two sides." Mr Farage shot back: "Well it's tough to compromise when you've signed up to a new EU treaty that commits you, in a whole host of areas, to something that can only be described as Brexit in name only. "So you sum up my position perfectly: either we cave in or we walk. I think that's exactly where we are right now." READ MORE: Brexit Japan deal is 'kind UK needs' as they 'value quality' says NFU
Nigel Farage hits back at BBC host as she suggests UK 'compromise' with EU on Brexit deal
'I'm not pretending the PM is in an easy position.'
The former MEP also had some stark words for Boris Johnson. He told BBC News: "If he is seen to sell out on fisheries, and to keep us part of the level playing field in any way, then the votes he was lent last December will disappear very quickly. "I'm not pretending the Prime Minister is in an easy position. "But if this was to come to the point where he couldn't get a reasonable agreement, and he said he tried, I think he'd get a big backing of the British public for that position."
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Brexit trade deal talks have entered a critical moment.
Brexit: Nigel Farage warns the EU will 'give us nothing'
Brexit trade deal talks have entered a critical moment. The Prime Minister and the European Commission President spoke on the phone on Monday evening. The pair assessed whether a post-Brexit trade deal could still be salvaged between the UK and EU. Mr Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen look set to meet in person this week in a bid to break the stalemate in post-Brexit trade deal talks. In a joint statement following their talks, they said: "As agreed on Saturday, we took stock today of the ongoing negotiations. "We agreed that the conditions for finalising an agreement are not there, due to the remaining significant differences on three critical issues: level playing field, governance and fisheries. "We asked our chief negotiators and their teams to prepare an overview of the remaining differences to be discussed in a physical meeting in Brussels in the coming days." DON'T MISS
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BREXIT ENDGAME


thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--Brexit deal NOT complete: Boris agrees to urgent meeting in Brussels as deadline closes in

The Prime Minister and Ursula von der Leyen agreed to meet in person after talks between EU 's negotiator Michel Barnier and the UK 's Lord David Frost failed to break the deadlock .
Negotiations in Brussels between Mr Barnier and Mr Frost have been taking place since yesterday morning .
Negotiations between the pair in London were paused last Friday after the two negotiators agreed they would be unable to reach an agreement without the intervention of Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen .
The Prime Minister and European Commission President spoke on the phone on Saturday and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another phone call tonight to `` take stock '' of progress .
A joint statement released after this evening 's phone call warned there were `` remaining significant differences '' .
Mr Johnson will now travel to Brussels later this week in the hope of agreeing a trade deal .
READ MORE ON OUR BREXIT LIVE BLOG Mr Frost and Mr Barnier have been asked to prepare an overview of the remaining sticking points ahead of the in-person negotiations .
The statement said : `` As agreed on Saturday , we took stock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We agreed that the conditions for finalising an agreement are not there due to the remaining significant differences on three critical issues : level playing field , governance and fisheries .
`` We asked our Chief Negotiators and their teams to prepare an overview of the remaining differences to be discussed in a physical meeting in Brussels in the coming days . ''
The Prime Minister and Ms von der Leyen are expected to hold face to face talks on Wednesday ahead of a summit of EU leaders on Thursday and Friday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreed prior to the summit so it can then be signed off by the EU27 when they meet .
READ MORE : Boris set to remove controversial Brexit bill clauses - if deal agreed However , a senior Government source remained pessimistic about the chances of a deal being achieved .
They said : `` Talks are in the same position now as they were on Friday .
`` We have made no tangible progress .
It ’ s clear this must now continue politically .
`` Whilst we do not consider this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looking very tricky and there ’ s every chance we are not going to get there.
” DO N'T MISS : SNP warns against no deal Brexit ... but vows it will VOTE DOWN EU pact [ UPDATE ] 'We 're taking back control ' Mordaunt tells Barnier UK will walk away [ VIDEO ] Macron is poison in the well Remainers ' idol trying to cripple UK [ COMMENT ] The three remaining issues in negotiations have plagued talks for months with little compromise being offered by either side .
Mr Johnson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recognise the UK as a sovereign state with control over its own laws and waters .
However , the EU wants to ensure Britain keeps similar rules and standards to Brussels to stop it gaining an unfair advantage , as well as continued access to UK waters for fishermen .
The Prime Minister has continued to threaten to leave the transition period without a trade deal if he can not secure a deal that respects his red lines .
His spokesman reiterated today : `` As the Prime Minister has said , if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Australia terms . ''
Australia and the EU do not have a trade agreement and operate under World Trade Organisation terms .

Brexit: Johnson and von der Leyen release trade talks statement
The Prime Minister and Ursula von der Leyen agreed to meet in person after talks between EU's negotiator Michel Barnier and the UK's Lord David Frost failed to break the deadlock. Negotiations in Brussels between Mr Barnier and Mr Frost have been taking place since yesterday morning.
Negotiations between the pair in London were paused last Friday after the two negotiators agreed they would be unable to reach an agreement without the intervention of Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen. The Prime Minister and European Commission President spoke on the phone on Saturday and agreed to restart trade talks before holding another phone call tonight to "take stock" of progress. A joint statement released after this evening's phone call warned there were "remaining significant differences". Mr Johnson will now travel to Brussels later this week in the hope of agreeing a trade deal. READ MORE ON OUR BREXIT LIVE BLOG
Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen spoke on the phone this evening
Mr Frost and Mr Barnier have been asked to prepare an overview of the remaining sticking points ahead of the in-person negotiations. The statement said: "As agreed on Saturday, we took stock today of the ongoing negotiations. "We agreed that the conditions for finalising an agreement are not there due to the remaining significant differences on three critical issues: level playing field, governance and fisheries. "We asked our Chief Negotiators and their teams to prepare an overview of the remaining differences to be discussed in a physical meeting in Brussels in the coming days." The Prime Minister and Ms von der Leyen are expected to hold face to face talks on Wednesday ahead of a summit of EU leaders on Thursday and Friday. Both sides want to have a deal agreed prior to the summit so it can then be signed off by the EU27 when they meet. READ MORE: Boris set to remove controversial Brexit bill clauses - if deal agreed
Boris Johnson is set to travel to Brussels this week to complete a deal
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David Frost has been in Brussels since yesterday morning trying to break the deadlock
Michel Barnier has warned Wednesday is the last possible day to agree a deal
The three remaining issues in negotiations have plagued talks for months with little compromise being offered by either side. Mr Johnson has consistently said any trade deal must recognise the UK as a sovereign state with control over its own laws and waters. However, the EU wants to ensure Britain keeps similar rules and standards to Brussels to stop it gaining an unfair advantage, as well as continued access to UK waters for fishermen. The Prime Minister has continued to threaten to leave the transition period without a trade deal if he cannot secure a deal that respects his red lines. His spokesman reiterated today: "As the Prime Minister has said, if we have to we will leave on Australia terms." Australia and the EU do not have a trade agreement and operate under World Trade Organisation terms.
Brexit end game: The steps needed for a trade deal to be secured
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thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--Boris and von der Leyen’s Brexit phone call HALTED after 90 minutes as PM demanded break

It is unclear why the Prime Minister has paused his talks after speaking for more than an hour with the Brussels boss .
EU sources said Mr Johnson was behind the request and said he would phone back the Commission President when he is ready to do so .
One insider said : `` They needed the break and they will call us . ''
Downing Street are still to comment on the dramatic pause in the call , which is understood to be used to finally decide whether a Brexit trade deal is possible or not .
The pair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hour before deciding Mr Johnson would travel to Brussels for in-person talks with his EU counterpart .
A joint statement said : `` As agreed on Saturday , we took stock today of the ongoing negotiations .
We agreed that the conditions for finalising an agreement are not there due to the remaining significant differences on three critical issues : level playing field , governance and fisheries .
`` We asked our chief negotiators and their teams to prepare an overview of the remaining differences to be discussed in a physical meeting in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A senior Government source said : “ Talks are in the same position now as they were on Friday .
`` We have made no tangible progress .
It ’ s clear this must now continue politically .
`` Whilst we do not consider this process to be closed , things are looking very tricky and there ’ s every chance we are not going to get there.
” The call is said to be a `` make-or-break '' moment in the wrangling over a post-Brexit free-trade agreement .
Michel Barnier , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talks will not continue beyond Wednesday if they are yet to clinch a deal .
`` We are not far from the very endgame but we can not go further than Wednesday , ” the Brussels diplomat told a meeting of MEPs , according to a source familiar with the discussions .
“ I cant guarantee we will reach an agreement tonight , we might still have to negotiate tomorrow.
” In a series of private meetings , Mr Barnier said negotiators were still struggling to break the deadlock on the three key @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so-called level playing field and governance .
Irish foreign minister Simon Coveney described the Brussels dealmakers ’ assessment of the talks as “ gloomy ” and “ downbeat ” .

Penny Mordaunt laughs at SNP’s Wishart during Brexit clash
It is unclear why the Prime Minister has paused his talks after speaking for more than an hour with the Brussels boss. EU sources said Mr Johnson was behind the request and said he would phone back the Commission President when he is ready to do so. One insider said: "They needed the break and they will call us."
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Downing Street are still to comment on the dramatic pause in the call, which is understood to be used to finally decide whether a Brexit trade deal is possible or not. The pair halted the call for just over an hour before deciding Mr Johnson would travel to Brussels for in-person talks with his EU counterpart. A joint statement said: "As agreed on Saturday, we took stock today of the ongoing negotiations. We agreed that the conditions for finalising an agreement are not there due to the remaining significant differences on three critical issues: level playing field, governance and fisheries.
Boris Johnson has paused his call with Ursula von der Leyen
"We asked our chief negotiators and their teams to prepare an overview of the remaining differences to be discussed in a physical meeting in Brussels in the coming days." A senior Government source said: “Talks are in the same position now as they were on Friday. "We have made no tangible progress. It’s clear this must now continue politically.
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Prime Minister Boris Johnson
"Whilst we do not consider this process to be closed, things are looking very tricky and there’s every chance we are not going to get there.” The call is said to be a "make-or-break" moment in the wrangling over a post-Brexit free-trade agreement. Michel Barnier, the bloc's Brexit chief, has warned talks will not continue beyond Wednesday if they are yet to clinch a deal.
Ursula von der Leyen will host Boris Johnson in Brussels this week
"We are not far from the very endgame but we cannot go further than Wednesday,” the Brussels diplomat told a meeting of MEPs, according to a source familiar with the discussions. “I cant guarantee we will reach an agreement tonight, we might still have to negotiate tomorrow.” In a series of private meetings, Mr Barnier said negotiators were still struggling to break the deadlock on the three key remaining issues – fishing opportunities, the so-called level playing field and governance. Irish foreign minister Simon Coveney described the Brussels dealmakers’ assessment of the talks as “gloomy” and “downbeat”.
Brexit: Johnson and von der Leyen release trade talks statement


thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--SNP warns of no deal Brexit chaos…but then vows to VOTE DOWN any EU deal secured by Boris

The Scottish Government 's Cabinet Secretary for the Constitution , Mike Russell , confirmed his party would reject any trade deal as `` Scotland did not vote for Brexit '' .
However , with negotiations between the UK and the EU on the brink , he admitted a failure for a deal to come into place could be a nightmare scenario .
UK negotiator Lord David Frost is in Brussels today as he holds last-minute negotiations with the EU 's Michel Barnier is a frantic bid to strike a trade deal .
Both sides have just days left to agree @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time to be ratified before the end of the transition period on December 31 .
Calling for certainty and a deal to be agreed , Mr Russell warned a failure to strike a trade pact risked throwing Scotland into chaos .
He said : `` I am certainly no fan of Brexit at all , but it is better to have some sort of arrangement than no sort of arrangement because with no sort of arrangement it is impossible to say what will happen next .
READ MORE ON OUR BREXIT LIVE BLOG @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' However , despite his desire to see a deal struck , Mr Russell said it was `` inconceivable '' the SNP could back an agreement brokered by Boris Johnson 's negotiating team .
He said on BBC Radio Scotland this morning : `` We wo n't support a deal because we do n't believe that Brexit is the right thing to happen .
`` I think that is entirely consistent from the very , very beginning .
`` Scotland did not vote for Brexit .
it would be extraordinary if we were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that we have and all the things we have enjoyed for almost 50 years .
`` That would be inconceivable . ''
READ MORE : Sturgeon shamed for using covid as excuse for independence demand The SNP 's decision means the Prime Minister could see any trade deal rejected in the House of Commons if Labour abstains on the vote and Mr Johnson suffers a large backbench rebellion .
The Labour Party are understood to currently be split on whether to back a deal in a Commons vote .
Sir Keir Starmer is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being the party of Remain and is said to be pushing for his MPs to back any deal .
But members of his Cabinet are less convinced and want the party to abstain .
DO N'T MISS : Penny Mordaunt laughs at SNP chief in brutal Commons clash on Brexit [ WATCH ] Macron is poison in the well Remainers ' idol trying to cripple UK [ COMMENT ] Sturgeon told SNP support will 'melt away when confronted with facts ' [ FORECAST ] Mr Johnson has already been warned from his backbenchers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agrees to a sell-out Brexit deal .
A source close to the European Research Group ( ERG ) , a group of eurosceptic Tory MPs , confirmed their members would not shy away from voting down a deal .
The source told The Telegraph : `` For Brexiteers , the overwhelmingly important issue is UK sovereignty .
“ If that is not preserved in the final agreement , I have no doubt we will vote against the treaty in whatever vote is called .
”

Brexit: SNP 'won't support a deal' says Michael Russell
The Scottish Government's Cabinet Secretary for the Constitution, Mike Russell, confirmed his party would reject any trade deal as "Scotland did not vote for Brexit". However, with negotiations between the UK and the EU on the brink, he admitted a failure for a deal to come into place could be a nightmare scenario.
UK negotiator Lord David Frost is in Brussels today as he holds last-minute negotiations with the EU's Michel Barnier is a frantic bid to strike a trade deal. Both sides have just days left to agree a deal if it is to have time to be ratified before the end of the transition period on December 31. Calling for certainty and a deal to be agreed, Mr Russell warned a failure to strike a trade pact risked throwing Scotland into chaos. He said: "I am certainly no fan of Brexit at all, but it is better to have some sort of arrangement than no sort of arrangement because with no sort of arrangement it is impossible to say what will happen next. READ MORE ON OUR BREXIT LIVE BLOG
The SNP has vowed to reject any Brexit trade deal
"This has never happened before." However, despite his desire to see a deal struck, Mr Russell said it was "inconceivable" the SNP could back an agreement brokered by Boris Johnson's negotiating team. He said on BBC Radio Scotland this morning: "We won't support a deal because we don't believe that Brexit is the right thing to happen. "I think that is entirely consistent from the very, very beginning. "Scotland did not vote for Brexit. it would be extraordinary if we were voting to give away all the rights that we have and all the things we have enjoyed for almost 50 years. "That would be inconceivable." READ MORE: Sturgeon shamed for using covid as excuse for independence demand
The SNP's Mike Russel said it was 'inconceivable' his party would back the deal
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The SNP's decision means the Prime Minister could see any trade deal rejected in the House of Commons if Labour abstains on the vote and Mr Johnson suffers a large backbench rebellion. The Labour Party are understood to currently be split on whether to back a deal in a Commons vote. Sir Keir Starmer is eager to avoid being accused of still being the party of Remain and is said to be pushing for his MPs to back any deal. But members of his Cabinet are less convinced and want the party to abstain. DON'T MISS:
Penny Mordaunt laughs at SNP chief in brutal Commons clash on Brexit [WATCH]
Macron is poison in the well Remainers' idol trying to cripple UK [COMMENT]
Sturgeon told SNP support will 'melt away when confronted with facts' [FORECAST]
Boris Johnson suffered a huge backbench rebellion last week on his tiers system
Mr Johnson has already been warned from his backbenchers that he will face revolt if he agrees to a sell-out Brexit deal. A source close to the European Research Group (ERG), a group of eurosceptic Tory MPs, confirmed their members would not shy away from voting down a deal. The source told The Telegraph: "For Brexiteers, the overwhelmingly important issue is UK sovereignty. “If that is not preserved in the final agreement, I have no doubt we will vote against the treaty in whatever vote is called.”
Brexit end game: The steps needed for a trade deal to be secured
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thedailyexpress--2020-12-08--Brexit breakthrough: UK and EU strike deal on NI - Internal Market bill clauses scrapped

After months of wrangling , the two sides announced an “ agreement in principle ” as part of the Brexit Joint Committee talks .
The body is chaired by Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove and European Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic .
In a joint statement , they said : “ Following intensive and constructive work over the past weeks by the EU and the UK , the two co-chairs can now announce their agreement in principle on all issues , in particular with regard to the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland.
” The agreement has secured significant climbdowns from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blockade food supplies and cut shipments of sausages and burgers to Northern Ireland .
It also covers export declarations for products shipped from Northern Ireland to the mainland .
As part of the deal , the Government has promised to drop the controversial clauses in its Internal Market Bill .
The statement says : `` In view of these mutually agreed solutions , the UK will withdraw clauses 44 , 45 and 47 of the UK Internal Market Bill , and not introduce any similar provisions in the Taxation Bill . ''
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to rip up sections of last year 's Brexit divorce deal to protect Northern Ireland 's place within the United Kingdom .
Under the agreement , both sides have drawn up a criteria for deeming what products are “ at risk ” of entering the EU ’ s single market , therefore requiring trade tariffs .
UK and EU officials will now go away to formalise the plans , which are expected to be unveiled before the end of the year .
Mr Gove said : “ Delighted to announce agreement in principle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Agreement Joint Committee .
`` Thank you to Maros Sefcovic and his team for their constructive and pragmatic approach.
” Mr Sefcovic added : “ Pleased to announce that thanks to hard work , Michael Gove and I have reached an agreement in principle on all issues regarding the Withdrawal Agreement implementation .
“ This will ensure it is fully operational as of January 1 , including the Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland.
” Mr Gove had travelled to Brussels for political , in-person talks with his EU counterpart .
Aodhán Connolly , Director @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : '' The announcement by Vice President Sefvovic and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster , Michael Gove , that agreement has been reached in principle on the issues regarding the Withdrawal Agreement and the Northern Ireland Protocol are very welcome and is hugely positive .
`` However , business in Northern Ireland will need the technical detail of these solutions as soon as possible .
Even more than the detail , we will need to see that they work and enable the retail industry to continue to provide the people of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they desperately need .
“ We still need the conclusion of a free trade agreement to remove customs frictions and with three weeks left to go we still will need an implementation period to allow us to comply with the new requirements .
While this is a positive step there is still much to do in little time . ''

Brexit: Kuenssberg says people ‘missing Juncker’
After months of wrangling, the two sides announced an “agreement in principle” as part of the Brexit Joint Committee talks. The body is chaired by Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove and European Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic. In a joint statement, they said: “Following intensive and constructive work over the past weeks by the EU and the UK, the two co-chairs can now announce their agreement in principle on all issues, in particular with regard to the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland.”
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The agreement has secured significant climbdowns from the EU side on previous threats to blockade food supplies and cut shipments of sausages and burgers to Northern Ireland. It also covers export declarations for products shipped from Northern Ireland to the mainland. As part of the deal, the Government has promised to drop the controversial clauses in its Internal Market Bill. The statement says: "In view of these mutually agreed solutions, the UK will withdraw clauses 44, 45 and 47 of the UK Internal Market Bill, and not introduce any similar provisions in the Taxation Bill."
Michael Gove and Maros Sefcovic clinch Brexit deal for Northern Ireland
The legislation was designed to hand ministers powers to rip up sections of last year's Brexit divorce deal to protect Northern Ireland's place within the United Kingdom. Under the agreement, both sides have drawn up a criteria for deeming what products are “at risk” of entering the EU’s single market, therefore requiring trade tariffs. UK and EU officials will now go away to formalise the plans, which are expected to be unveiled before the end of the year.
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Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove
Mr Gove had travelled to Brussels for political, in-person talks with his EU counterpart. Aodhán Connolly, Director of the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium, said:"The announcement by Vice President Sefvovic and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Michael Gove, that agreement has been reached in principle on the issues regarding the Withdrawal Agreement and the Northern Ireland Protocol are very welcome and is hugely positive. "However, business in Northern Ireland will need the technical detail of these solutions as soon as possible. Even more than the detail, we will need to see that they work and enable the retail industry to continue to provide the people of Northern Ireland the choice and affordability that they desperately need. “We still need the conclusion of a free trade agreement to remove customs frictions and with three weeks left to go we still will need an implementation period to allow us to comply with the new requirements. While this is a positive step there is still much to do in little time." DON'T MISS
Brexit Britain secures £20billion agreement with Norway and Iceland [REVEALED]
Sturgeon blasted for doing 'nothing to support' Scottish fishermen [INSIGHT]
Crafty ‘Brexit waivers’ could prove dodgy deals for new car buyers [ANALYSIS]
Maros Sefcovic is an EU Commission vice-president
Mr Gove said: “Delighted to announce agreement in principle on all issues in the UK-EU Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee. "Thank you to Maros Sefcovic and his team for their constructive and pragmatic approach.” Mr Sefcovic added: “Pleased to announce that thanks to hard work, Michael Gove and I have reached an agreement in principle on all issues regarding the Withdrawal Agreement implementation. “This will ensure it is fully operational as of January 1, including the Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland.” After the announcement of an “agreement in principle” for the implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol, European Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic said he hoped the deal would inject “positive momentum” into the trade talks. He told a news conference: “I hope this will create positive momentum for the discussions on the free trade agreement. “We’re still very far apart and we’re not hiding this from anyone. We’ve removed one big obstacle from the way and I hope we will see the positive results also coming from this very complex negotiations.” But the top eurocrat, who co-chairs the Brexit Joint Committee with Mr Gove, refused to admit whether the EU would be allowed a permanent office in Northern Ireland. MUST READ: Barnier warns chances of Brexit deal 'very slim' as EU splits erupt
Brexit: Simon McCoy pokes fun at EU briefing problems


thedailyexpress--2020-12-08--Matt Hancock 'confident' Britons will resume holidays in 2021 'have already booked mine'

Matt Hancock once again insisted the coronavirus vaccine being rolled out now across the UK will allow the country to return to normality soon .
In an urgent question to Parliament on Tuesday , the Health Secretary expressed his `` confidence '' in the jab and said he is hoping care homes will soon start receiving doses .
Mr Hancock renewed his optimism as colleague Jeremy Hunt asked : `` It is very , very cold outside and the question on many people 's minds is are they now able to book a summer holiday ?
`` So what is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there anywhere in particular that he would recommend if the answer was yes ? ''
Mr Hancock replied : `` I do have high confidence that the summer of 2021 will be a bright one without the sort of restrictions that made the summer of 2020 more restrictive .
`` I 've booked my holiday .
I 'm going to Cornwall . ''
SNP public health spokesman Martyn Day said : `` Recent studies have shown as few as 54 percent of the UK population are certain to have the vaccination .
There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
JUST IN : Defiant Boris Johnson sends EU order to 'change ' red lines – UK will NOT back down Responding , Mr Hancock said : `` Countering disinformation is incredibly important .
That is best done with positive information and explaining objectively why the vaccine is safe and how it 's safe .
`` I think the thing that we can all do in this House is positively talk about the benefits of the vaccine for keeping you safe and keeping your community safe . ''
The Health Secretary also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rolled out across the United Kingdom , the sooner Britons will be allowed to resume their normal lives .
He continued : `` Whilst the vaccine rolls out the best way to get anybody 's area down through the tiers is to continue to follow the restrictions that are , unfortunately , still absolutely necessary to keep people safe .
READ MORE : Brexit breakthrough : UK and EU strike deal on NI - Internal Market bill clauses scrapped '' However , having said that , because we have a vaccine , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vaccine , the sooner we can get to the point where we can get rid of the system altogether . ''
The first round of vaccinations took place on Tuesday morning , with 90-year-old Margaret Keenan becoming the first person in the UK to receive the jab .
Mrs Keenan , known to family and friends as Maggie , received the jab at 6.31am from nurse May Parsons at her local hospital in Coventry .
Speaking after being vaccinated , the retired jeweller said : `` I feel so privileged to be the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's the best early birthday present I could wish for because it means I can finally look forward to spending time with my family and friends in the New Year after being on my own for most of the year .
FOUR MILLION doses of life-saving COVID-19 vaccine to arrive in GB [ ANALYSIS ] Queen and Prince Philip will not reveal when they have COVID-19 jab [ INSIGHT ] 'Why risk it ? '
ITV GMB guest slams Britons defying coronavirus tiers [ VIDEO ]

Vaccine: Matt Hancock reveals he has booked 2021 holiday
Matt Hancock once again insisted the coronavirus vaccine being rolled out now across the UK will allow the country to return to normality soon. In an urgent question to Parliament on Tuesday, the Health Secretary expressed his "confidence" in the jab and said he is hoping care homes will soon start receiving doses. Mr Hancock renewed his optimism as colleague Jeremy Hunt asked: "It is very, very cold outside and the question on many people's minds is are they now able to book a summer holiday?
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"So what is his answer to that question and is there anywhere in particular that he would recommend if the answer was yes?" Mr Hancock replied: "I do have high confidence that the summer of 2021 will be a bright one without the sort of restrictions that made the summer of 2020 more restrictive. "I've booked my holiday. I'm going to Cornwall." SNP public health spokesman Martyn Day said: "Recent studies have shown as few as 54 percent of the UK population are certain to have the vaccination. There is a clear need to counter misinformation." JUST IN: Defiant Boris Johnson sends EU order to 'change' red lines – UK will NOT back down
Matt Hancock said he is
Matt Hancock said he booked a holiday to Cornwall for the summer of 2021
Responding, Mr Hancock said: "Countering disinformation is incredibly important. That is best done with positive information and explaining objectively why the vaccine is safe and how it's safe. "I think the thing that we can all do in this House is positively talk about the benefits of the vaccine for keeping you safe and keeping your community safe." The Health Secretary also said the sooner the vaccine scheme is rolled out across the United Kingdom, the sooner Britons will be allowed to resume their normal lives. He continued: "Whilst the vaccine rolls out the best way to get anybody's area down through the tiers is to continue to follow the restrictions that are, unfortunately, still absolutely necessary to keep people safe. READ MORE: Brexit breakthrough: UK and EU strike deal on NI - Internal Market bill clauses scrapped
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Matt Hancock appears emotional over coronavirus vaccine rollout
Coronavirus news: The infection rate has continued to remain high in many areas
"However, having said that, because we have a vaccine, the faster that we can roll out the vaccine, the sooner we can get to the point where we can get rid of the system altogether." The first round of vaccinations took place on Tuesday morning, with 90-year-old Margaret Keenan becoming the first person in the UK to receive the jab. Mrs Keenan, known to family and friends as Maggie, received the jab at 6.31am from nurse May Parsons at her local hospital in Coventry. Speaking after being vaccinated, the retired jeweller said: "I feel so privileged to be the first person vaccinated against COVID-19, it's the best early birthday present I could wish for because it means I can finally look forward to spending time with my family and friends in the New Year after being on my own for most of the year. DON'T MISS: FOUR MILLION doses of life-saving COVID-19 vaccine to arrive in GB [ANALYSIS]
Queen and Prince Philip will not reveal when they have COVID-19 jab [INSIGHT]
'Why risk it?' ITV GMB guest slams Britons defying coronavirus tiers [VIDEO]
The coronavirus vaccine began to be rolled out on Tuesday


thedailyexpress--2020-12-08--Defiant Boris Johnson sends EU order to 'change' red lines – UK will NOT back down

The Prime Minister has said he is only willing to agree a deal with the EU if it recognises the UK is a sovereign state with control of its own laws and waters .
Negotiations remain gridlocked with neither the UK nor Brussels willing to back down on their demands to make a deal happen .
Today , the Prime Minister 's spokesman indicated the EU would need to be the side that budged if a deal was to be done as the UK would not compromise on its demands .
Asked if there could be a deal without a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Prime Minister 's spokesman said this afternoon : `` We 've been clear on our negotiating position around the need for any agreement to respect our sovereignty .
That remains the case .
`` The purpose of the in-person meeting will be to see if there is a political way through .
`` It remains the Prime Minister 's ambition to reach a free trade agreement . ''
READ MORE ON OUR BREXIT LIVE BLOG Mr Johnson told a meeting of his Cabinet this morning that he remained determined to try @ @ @ @ @ @ @ currently plaguing the trade talks .
However , he made clear any deal had to respect the UK 's red lines and Britain would thrive even if it left the EU transition period on December 31 without a deal .
The Prime Minister and Ms von der Leyen last night agreed to meet face-to-face in a final attempt to secure a trade deal before time runs out at the end of the year .
The pair held a phone call to `` take stock '' after negotiators Michel Barnier and David Frost spent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ overcome the differences .
However , with little progress made it was decided Mr Johnson would fly to Brussels himself in an attempt to clinch a deal .
A joint statement from Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen issued last night said : `` As agreed on Saturday , we took stock today of the ongoing negotiations .
READ MORE : John Redwood rages at Lamberts on demand Britain must back down '' We agreed that the conditions for finalising an agreement are not there due to the remaining significant differences on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , governance and fisheries .
`` We asked our Chief Negotiators and their teams to prepare an overview of the remaining differences to be discussed in a physical meeting in Brussels in the coming days . ''
Mr Frost will travel back from Brussels this afternoon before meeting with the Prime Minister this evening to discuss the remaining differences .
Exact details of when Mr Johnson will travel to the Belgium capital to meet with the European Commission President remain unclear .
DON 'S MISS : Bad Brexit will leave UK a fly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ capitulate [ COMMNET ] Theresa May ’ s advisor outlines THREE changes UK must make to prosper [ INSIGHT ] French fishermen TURN on Emmanuel Macron after Brexit ultimatum [ UPDATE ] A No10 source has urged caution on expecting a breakthrough in negotiations when Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen meet .
They said : `` Talks are in the same position now as they were on Friday .
`` We have made no tangible progress .
`` It ’ s clear this must now continue politically .
`` Whilst we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closed , things are looking very tricky and there ’ s every chance we are not going to get there .
”

Brexit: Johnson and von der Leyen release trade talks statement
The Prime Minister has said he is only willing to agree a deal with the EU if it recognises the UK is a sovereign state with control of its own laws and waters. Negotiations remain gridlocked with neither the UK nor Brussels willing to back down on their demands to make a deal happen.
Today, the Prime Minister's spokesman indicated the EU would need to be the side that budged if a deal was to be done as the UK would not compromise on its demands. Asked if there could be a deal without a change of the EU's red lines, the Prime Minister's spokesman said this afternoon: "We've been clear on our negotiating position around the need for any agreement to respect our sovereignty. That remains the case. "The purpose of the in-person meeting will be to see if there is a political way through. "It remains the Prime Minister's ambition to reach a free trade agreement." READ MORE ON OUR BREXIT LIVE BLOG
Boris Johnson has vowed not to back down on his red lines
Mr Johnson told a meeting of his Cabinet this morning that he remained determined to try and find a way through the impasse currently plaguing the trade talks. However, he made clear any deal had to respect the UK's red lines and Britain would thrive even if it left the EU transition period on December 31 without a deal. The Prime Minister and Ms von der Leyen last night agreed to meet face-to-face in a final attempt to secure a trade deal before time runs out at the end of the year. The pair held a phone call to "take stock" after negotiators Michel Barnier and David Frost spent Sunday and Monday in Brussels trying to overcome the differences. However, with little progress made it was decided Mr Johnson would fly to Brussels himself in an attempt to clinch a deal. A joint statement from Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen issued last night said: "As agreed on Saturday, we took stock today of the ongoing negotiations. READ MORE: John Redwood rages at Lamberts on demand Britain must back down
Boris Johnson held a phone call with Ursula von der Leyen last night
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The Prime Minister and European Commission President agreed to meet in person to try and break the deadlock
"We agreed that the conditions for finalising an agreement are not there due to the remaining significant differences on three critical issues: level playing field, governance and fisheries. "We asked our Chief Negotiators and their teams to prepare an overview of the remaining differences to be discussed in a physical meeting in Brussels in the coming days." Mr Frost will travel back from Brussels this afternoon before meeting with the Prime Minister this evening to discuss the remaining differences. Exact details of when Mr Johnson will travel to the Belgium capital to meet with the European Commission President remain unclear. DON'S MISS:
Bad Brexit will leave UK a fly in EU web, we MUST not capitulate [COMMNET]
Theresa May’s advisor outlines THREE changes UK must make to prosper [INSIGHT]
French fishermen TURN on Emmanuel Macron after Brexit ultimatum [UPDATE]
David Frost is travelling back to London today to brief the Prime Minister
A No10 source has urged caution on expecting a breakthrough in negotiations when Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen meet. They said: "Talks are in the same position now as they were on Friday. "We have made no tangible progress. "It’s clear this must now continue politically. "Whilst we do not consider this process to be closed, things are looking very tricky and there’s every chance we are not going to get there.”
Brexit end game: The steps needed for a trade deal to be secured
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thedailyexpress--2020-12-08--'Sleepwalking into no deal' BBC's Laura Kuenssberg claims EU underestimated Boris Johnson

Speaking on the BBC 's Brexitcast podcast , Laura Kuenssberg argued the EU `` never understood '' how serious the UK would be in the Brexit negotiations about refusing to budge on their key red lines .
The BBC political editor argued EU leaders are `` sleepwalking '' into a no deal outcome as both sides refuse to make compromises .
As negotiators have reached the last leg of the trade talks , Ms Kuennsberg said : `` For all the rhetoric around , the Government wants to absolutely get a deal , that 's the reason they 've been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ months to try to get there .
`` So I think this is more than just a 'oh look , I tried so hard and fought so hard ' and obviously if there is a deal then the Prime Minister being there in person will show that he 's able to personally claim victory in terms of the optics around this .
`` But I really think since the end of last week there has been a real change in the tone and I just wonder if any breakthrough is really possible now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from someone on the EU side , she added : `` 'It 's just not going to happen until we change the equation , as long as this side wo n't dare to and the UK wo n't either .
`` 'It feels like we 're sleepwalking into no deal ' .
`` And I was really struck this morning talking about a former Remainer cabinet minister who thinks they were really getting somewhere , there was really quite a lot of optimism around at the middle of the week last week about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Netherlands , the Danes , Spain , all pushed back really hard at the end of last week .
READ MORE : 'Let go ! '
UK trade adviser tears apart EU 's refusal to accept Brexit

EU ‘never understood how serious UK was’ says Kuenssberg
Speaking on the BBC's Brexitcast podcast, Laura Kuenssberg argued the EU "never understood" how serious the UK would be in the Brexit negotiations about refusing to budge on their key red lines. The BBC political editor argued EU leaders are "sleepwalking" into a no deal outcome as both sides refuse to make compromises. As negotiators have reached the last leg of the trade talks, Ms Kuennsberg said: "For all the rhetoric around, the Government wants to absolutely get a deal, that's the reason they've been working so hard in the last few months to try to get there.
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"So I think this is more than just a 'oh look, I tried so hard and fought so hard' and obviously if there is a deal then the Prime Minister being there in person will show that he's able to personally claim victory in terms of the optics around this. "But I really think since the end of last week there has been a real change in the tone and I just wonder if any breakthrough is really possible now." Reading a text she received from someone on the EU side, she added: "'It's just not going to happen until we change the equation, as long as this side won't dare to and the UK won't either. "'It feels like we're sleepwalking into no deal'. "And I was really struck this morning talking about a former Remainer cabinet minister who thinks they were really getting somewhere, there was really quite a lot of optimism around at the middle of the week last week about this, they feel that France, the Netherlands, the Danes, Spain, all pushed back really hard at the end of last week. READ MORE: 'Let go!' UK trade adviser tears apart EU's refusal to accept Brexit
BBC: Laura Kuenssberg says EU underestimated UK's seriousness about not backing down in Brexit talks
Brexit latest news: Michel Barnier says Brexit is a school of patience as he meets with Lord Frost
"And that's changed things. And now they're like 'you know what? We can't go on like this'. "And they feel the EU has never understood maybe how serious the UK was about not backing down." Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned that talks with the European Union on a trade deal were proving "very tricky" ahead of a crunch meeting with Brussels' top official. The Prime Minister said he was still hopeful about reaching a deal but it was proving "very, very difficult" to make progress. Later this week Mr Johnson will head to Brussels for face-to-face talks with European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen in an attempt to salvage a deal, with time running out before the current trading arrangements expire at the end of the month. Mr Johnson said he hoped the "power of sweet reason" would triumph but Brussels had to accept there were limits to what terms the UK would be prepared to accept.
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Boris Johnson says Brexit deal 'looking difficult'
Talks have faltered on the issues of fishing rights, the "level playing field" measures aimed at preventing the UK undercutting the EU on standards and state subsidies, and the way that any deal would be governed. In a message to Brussels, the Prime Minister said: "Our friends have just got to understand the UK has left the EU in order to be able to exercise democratic control over the way we do things. "There is also the issue of fisheries where we are a long way apart still. "But hope springs eternal, I will do my best to sort it out if we can." DON'T MISS:
Brexit latest: How Von Der Leyen BANNED Boris from speaking to Macron [INSIGHT]
'France ALWAYS wants to lead Europe’ says Hague as he blasts Macron [VIDEO]
EU civil war: Michel Barnier 'not happy' with Ursula von der Leyen [ANALYSIS]
Brexit latest: Boris Johnson said talks were proving 'very tricky'


thedailyexpress--2020-12-08--Brexit row erupts as John Redwood shuts down Philippe Lamberts over 'unfair' EU demands

Brexiteer Tory MP Sir John Redwood snapped at Belgian MEP Philippe Lamberts as he insisted that `` Britain can not have its cake and it eat too '' in the Brexit negotiations .
Mr Lamberts argued that a trade deal with the EU that allowed market access had to ensure that the UK could not undercut other nations .
He added that he did still want a trade deal between the UK and EU and that the UK should concede to ensure a prosperous future for both parties .
Sir John argued that as a sovereign state , the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the rules of the European Union .
He noted that while a good trading relationship is ideal , the UK would not bow down to the European Union to get a deal , especially if it impacted the freedom to govern its country how it sees fit .
He said : `` Nothing has changed has it , the UK is trying to stick to the central proposition of the political agreement that was signed a couple years ago that we were very happy with a free trade agreement .
`` So it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they want that free trade agreement because we are happy to proceed with it .
`` If they persist with wanting to take our fish , control our laws and adjudicate any disputes the answer must be no , that is a bad deal .
Sir John was also asked whether he would be satisfied with the UK came back at the end of the talks with no deal .
He said : `` There does n't have to be an agreement if the EU does n't want one .
`` They have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Brexit news : Sir John was also asked whether he would be satisfied with the UK came back at the end of the talks with no deal .
`` They do n't like Brexit but the British people do , we voted for it because we want to be free . ''
Mr Lamberts argued that despite the disagreements , both the UK and EU need to come together to agree a deal .
He said : `` One must understand that we want to protect ourselves against unfair competition but the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are symmetrical .
`` Likewise , if the United Kingdom feels undercut by unfair competition from the European Union it would enjoy exactly the same rights as the EU would have to curtail market access if it believes it is unfairly treated by the European Union .

Brexit: John Redwood insists ‘we don’t need an agreement’
Brexiteer Tory MP Sir John Redwood snapped at Belgian MEP Philippe Lamberts as he insisted that "Britain cannot have its cake and it eat too" in the Brexit negotiations. Mr Lamberts argued that a trade deal with the EU that allowed market access had to ensure that the UK could not undercut other nations. He added that he did still want a trade deal between the UK and EU and that the UK should concede to ensure a prosperous future for both parties.
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Sir John argued that as a sovereign state, the UK should not be forced to abide by the rules of the European Union. He noted that while a good trading relationship is ideal, the UK would not bow down to the European Union to get a deal, especially if it impacted the freedom to govern its country how it sees fit. He said: "Nothing has changed has it, the UK is trying to stick to the central proposition of the political agreement that was signed a couple years ago that we were very happy with a free trade agreement. "So it is now up to the EU if they want that free trade agreement because we are happy to proceed with it. DON'T MISS: Macron 'underplaying' UK's importance and predicts Brexit compliance
John Redwood rages at Lamberts on demand UK must back down 'Britain doesn't need a deal!'
Brexit news: John Redwood lashed out at Philippe Lamberts as the pair rowed over who should concede in the Brexit trade deal talks.
"If they persist with wanting to take our fish, control our laws and adjudicate any disputes the answer must be no, that is a bad deal. Sir John was also asked whether he would be satisfied with the UK came back at the end of the talks with no deal. He said: "There doesn't have to be an agreement if the EU doesn't want one. "They have been behaving very badly throughout this process.
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Brexit news: Sir John was also asked whether he would be satisfied with the UK came back at the end of the talks with no deal.
Brexit: EU 'worried' about long term impact of deal says Adler
"They don't like Brexit but the British people do, we voted for it because we want to be free." Mr Lamberts argued that despite the disagreements, both the UK and EU need to come together to agree a deal. He said: "One must understand that we want to protect ourselves against unfair competition but the mechanisms that we put on the table are symmetrical. "Likewise, if the United Kingdom feels undercut by unfair competition from the European Union it would enjoy exactly the same rights as the EU would have to curtail market access if it believes it is unfairly treated by the European Union.
Brexit news: Prime Minister, Boris Johnson ahead of his trip to Brussels admitted that he was still hopeful a Brexit trade deal could be agreed.


thedailyexpress--2020-12-08--'We will NEVER sacrifice!' Barnier fires angry tweet to UK's Frost after EU27 meeting

The Brussels diplomat said the pair met to pave the way for Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen take control of the negotiations .
Speaking after their first meeting of the day , Mr Barnier said : “ I just met David Frost this morning to prepare the next steps , and , obviously , the meeting between Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen .
At that stage , more than ever , Brexit is a school of patience… even a university of patience.
” After the meeting , Mr Barnier tweeted : “ Briefed all Member States @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unity .
We will never sacrifice our future for the present .
Access to our market comes with conditions .
“ Working closely with David Frost and team to prepare an upcoming meeting between von der Leyen and Boris Johnson.
” Insiders claim the chief negotiators are trying to hammer out an agenda of little more than “ two or three ” outstanding issues for the political leaders to thrash out a compromise .
The European Commission said negotiations would likely continue after the high-level meeting , which is still yet to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ That 's not where the negotiations happen .
The meeting will be to try and lift substantial impasses so then the negotiators can continue their work .
“ We 're willing to continue the discussions for as long as necessary.
” In the event of a no-deal Brexit , the bloc could push for fresh negotiations in the new year .
The spokesman added : “ If that deal is not in place on the January 1 then we have a no deal situation .
“ That does not exclude that negotiations can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ does not exclude that we can continue on the basis of the mandate that 's given to us . ''
Ahead of his trip to Brussels , Mr Johnson said he was “ optimistic ” a deal can be struck , but insisted the EU would have to show “ sweet reason ” to get it over the line .
The Prime Minister said : “ You 've got to be optimistic , you 've got to believe there 's the power of sweet reason to get this thing over the line .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ you it 's looking very , very difficult at the moment.
” Mr Johnson will brief Cabinet ministers before he heads to the Continent for the in-person showdown .
MUST READ : France refuses to back down on fishing as Boris sent warning The French government ’ s threat of a veto still hangs over the talks with Paris refusing to drop its hardline demands for future fishing rights .
Clement Beaune , France ’ s Europe minister , who is a close ally of President Macron , said his boss was ready @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fishermen are granted generous access to UK fishing grounds .
Mr Beaune said : “ It is complicated and we do not want to act under pressure because there are two things that are very concrete for the French , for the Europeans , for our companies : the first is fishing , which is extremely important to French regions such as Haute France , Normandy , Brittany .
`` We don ’ t accept that the British block access to their waters .
It 's not possible .
We make efforts and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to fishermen , but we will not sacrifice our fisheries and our fishermen .
And the British know that . ''
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Boris Johnson says Brexit deal 'looking difficult'
The Brussels diplomat said the pair met to pave the way for Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen take control of the negotiations. Speaking after their first meeting of the day, Mr Barnier said: “I just met David Frost this morning to prepare the next steps, and, obviously, the meeting between Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen. At that stage, more than ever, Brexit is a school of patience… even a university of patience.”
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After the meeting, Mr Barnier tweeted: “Briefed all Member States at the #GAC today. Full unity. We will never sacrifice our future for the present. Access to our market comes with conditions. “Working closely with David Frost and team to prepare an upcoming meeting between von der Leyen and Boris Johnson.” Insiders claim the chief negotiators are trying to hammer out an agenda of little more than “two or three” outstanding issues for the political leaders to thrash out a compromise. The European Commission said negotiations would likely continue after the high-level meeting, which is still yet to be scheduled. A spokesman said: “That's not where the negotiations happen. The meeting will be to try and lift substantial impasses so then the negotiators can continue their work.
Michel Barnier outside the EU Commission's Berlaymont headquarters
Michel Barnier is the EU's chief Brexit negotiator
“We're willing to continue the discussions for as long as necessary.” In the event of a no-deal Brexit, the bloc could push for fresh negotiations in the new year. The spokesman added: “If that deal is not in place on the January 1 then we have a no deal situation. “That does not exclude that negotiations can continue from our side, and it does not exclude that we can continue on the basis of the mandate that's given to us."
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Lord Frost has been in Brussels to attempt to break the deadlock
Ahead of his trip to Brussels, Mr Johnson said he was “optimistic” a deal can be struck, but insisted the EU would have to show “sweet reason” to get it over the line. The Prime Minister said: “You've got to be optimistic, you've got to believe there's the power of sweet reason to get this thing over the line. “But I've got to tell you it's looking very, very difficult at the moment.” Mr Johnson will brief Cabinet ministers before he heads to the Continent for the in-person showdown. MUST READ: France refuses to back down on fishing as Boris sent warning
Brexit: What needs to happen before the trade and security deal can be clinched?
The French government’s threat of a veto still hangs over the talks with Paris refusing to drop its hardline demands for future fishing rights. Clement Beaune, France’s Europe minister, who is a close ally of President Macron, said his boss was ready to block the trade deal unless its fishermen are granted generous access to UK fishing grounds. Mr Beaune said: “It is complicated and we do not want to act under pressure because there are two things that are very concrete for the French, for the Europeans, for our companies: the first is fishing, which is extremely important to French regions such as Haute France, Normandy, Brittany. "We don’t accept that the British block access to their waters. It's not possible. We make efforts and compromises, and we have said so to fishermen, but we will not sacrifice our fisheries and our fishermen. And the British know that." DON'T MISS
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Brexit: EU 'worried' about long term impact of deal says Adler


thedailyexpress--2020-12-08--'EU wiped out our fishing!’ Furious Britons demand Brexit revenge for ‘criminal’ damage

The battle over fishing rights continues to block progress in the trade negotiations between the UK and EU and with just over three weeks left until the Brexit transition period deadline ends , time is running out to make a breakthrough on the issue .
Express.co.uk readers have now launched a furious attack against the EU over its demands around fishing rights and the damage they claim the bloc has inflicted on the UK ’ s industry .
One person said : `` The EU wiped out our fishing industry , aided and abetted by UK politicians .
`` Whole @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and these towns were abandoned by the politicians .
`` Grimsby was once the largest fishing port in the world but now hardly any fishing boats are based there .
`` The same goes for Hull and Lowescroft , and Whitby and Brixham . ''
A second furious person raged : `` Mismanagement and resource depletion is the side effect of rapacious greed .
`` We have come to expect nothing less than the egocentric juggernaut that is the EU .
`` Time is up !
Time to call you out ! ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ oldies , this is nothing short of criminal to see what has been done to the once prosperous fishing ports .
`` I lived in Whitby for a time and know just how bad the Whitby folk see it .
READ MORE : Brexit LIVE : EU setting 'trap ' for Boris after tricking May '' They fished for generations , only to have their work and way of life given away .
`` Whitby used to have over 70 offshore , 60-footer boats but now there is only one fill-time one left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ charter boats .
`` Practically the whole of the old town on East Side is retirement homes , holiday homes or holiday lets .
At this time of year , it is a ghost town . ''
On Sunday evening , Brussels ' chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier told EU27 ambassadors the disputes over the so-called level playing field , fisheries and governance are still outstanding .
DO N'T MISS Brexit latest : How Von Der Leyen BANNED Boris from speaking to Macron [ INSIGHT ] 'France ALWAYS wants to lead Europe ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ INTERVIEW ] Boris Johnson demands von der Leyen see 'sweet reason ' as he gears up [ COMMENT ] He reportedly rubbished reports over the weekend on a breakthrough in the battle over access to Britain 's coastal waters , while Downing Street also rejected the idea any progress had been made here .
A UK Government source had said : `` There ’ s been no breakthrough on fish .
Nothing new has been achieved on this . ''
France has threatened a no-deal Brexit unless the UK relaxes its position over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Macron could vote down any agreement at the EU summit later this week .
Boris Johnson will travel to Brussels later this week for face-to-face talks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in a last-ditch effort to break the deadlock in the trade talks stalemate .
But access to Britain 's waters continues to be a major stumbling block , with France among a number of EU coastal states facing huge cuts to fishing quotas after the end of the year unless Mr Johnson offers significant compromises .
France 's Europe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Mr Macron warned the French Government could veto any trade deal unless the country 's fishermen are granted generous access to UK fishing grounds .
He said : “ It is complicated and we do not want to act under pressure because there are two things that are very concrete for the French , for the Europeans , for our companies : the first is fishing , which is extremely important to French regions such as Haute France , Normandy , Brittany .
`` We don ’ t accept that the British @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's not possible .
We make efforts and compromises , and we have said so to fishermen , but we will not sacrifice our fisheries and our fishermen .
And the British know that . ''
He insisted France is prepared to veto a `` bad '' deal for its fishermen , adding : `` Yes , we are a bit fed up , but we 're not going to stop knocking on the door because we 're tired .
And it 's Michel Barnier who negotiates for us .

Brexit: Deas says ‘nothing has been agreed on fishing’
The battle over fishing rights continues to block progress in the trade negotiations between the UK and EU and with just over three weeks left until the Brexit transition period deadline ends, time is running out to make a breakthrough on the issue. Express.co.uk readers have now launched a furious attack against the EU over its demands around fishing rights and the damage they claim the bloc has inflicted on the UK’s industry. One person said: "The EU wiped out our fishing industry, aided and abetted by UK politicians.
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"Whole towns overnight had their industry wiped out and these towns were abandoned by the politicians. "Grimsby was once the largest fishing port in the world but now hardly any fishing boats are based there. "The same goes for Hull and Lowescroft, and Whitby and Brixham." A second furious person raged: "Mismanagement and resource depletion is the side effect of rapacious greed.
Brexit news: Furious Britons have launched a scathing attack against the EU
Brexit news: Michel Barnier has rejected claims there has been a breakthrough on fishing in trade talks
"We have come to expect nothing less than the egocentric juggernaut that is the EU. "Time is up! Time to call you out!" Another reader wrote: "For us oldies, this is nothing short of criminal to see what has been done to the once prosperous fishing ports. "I lived in Whitby for a time and know just how bad the Whitby folk see it. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: EU setting 'trap' for Boris after tricking May
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Brexit news: Boris Johonson has gone on the front foot in trade talks with the EU
"They fished for generations, only to have their work and way of life given away. "Whitby used to have over 70 offshore, 60-footer boats but now there is only one fill-time one left. The other four are part-time or charter boats. "Practically the whole of the old town on East Side is retirement homes, holiday homes or holiday lets. At this time of year, it is a ghost town." On Sunday evening, Brussels' chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier told EU27 ambassadors the disputes over the so-called level playing field, fisheries and governance are still outstanding. DON'T MISS
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Brexit news: France has threatened a no-deal unless the UK relaxes its position over fishing access
Brexit news: Clement Beaune warned the French Government could veto any trade deal unless the country's fishermen are granted generous access to UK fishing grounds
He reportedly rubbished reports over the weekend on a breakthrough in the battle over access to Britain's coastal waters, while Downing Street also rejected the idea any progress had been made here. A UK Government source had said: "There’s been no breakthrough on fish. Nothing new has been achieved on this." France has threatened a no-deal Brexit unless the UK relaxes its position over fishing access, fuelling fears President Emmanuel Macron could vote down any agreement at the EU summit later this week. Boris Johnson will travel to Brussels later this week for face-to-face talks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in a last-ditch effort to break the deadlock in the trade talks stalemate. But access to Britain's waters continues to be a major stumbling block, with France among a number of EU coastal states facing huge cuts to fishing quotas after the end of the year unless Mr Johnson offers significant compromises.
Brexit news: European fishing dependence on British waters
France's Europe minister Clement Beaune, a close ally of Mr Macron warned the French Government could veto any trade deal unless the country's fishermen are granted generous access to UK fishing grounds. He said: “It is complicated and we do not want to act under pressure because there are two things that are very concrete for the French, for the Europeans, for our companies: the first is fishing, which is extremely important to French regions such as Haute France, Normandy, Brittany. "We don’t accept that the British block access to their waters. It's not possible. We make efforts and compromises, and we have said so to fishermen, but we will not sacrifice our fisheries and our fishermen. And the British know that." He insisted France is prepared to veto a "bad" deal for its fishermen, adding: "Yes, we are a bit fed up, but we're not going to stop knocking on the door because we're tired. And it's Michel Barnier who negotiates for us.
Brexit news: Boris Johnson will meet Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels later this week


thedailyexpress--2020-12-08--BBC's Emily Maitlis slapped down by Dan Hannan as she demands UK cave in Brexit talks

Speaking to the former British MEP , the BBC Newsnight host claimed the UK should give up some of its regained power to the EU in order to come to a post-Brexit trading agreement .
She said : `` Is n't that the crux of it ?
That actually , the more we talk about sovereignty , the more it sounds like we ca n't give up any of our power that is needed to do any bilateral trade deal .
`` That 's what you have to do .
`` You have to invest in trust with another side @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trade adviser to the Government , dismantled the BBC host 's argument .
He said : “ That is emphatically not what we are doing , because after the rejection of the Salzburg terms when we were told ‘ Look if you want to leave it ’ s got to be on the simple Canada type deals ’ , we only looked at extant deals that the EU has already done .
READ MORE : Brexit : Boris heads to Brussel for final push to clinch deal “ With South Korea , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not ask for things that went beyond them , and so we ’ re not asking for anything unprecedented .
“ The EU isn ’ t claiming that we ’ re asking for something so unusual that it needs to have sovereignty , their argument bizarrely is that they need to have some oversight of our standards because we ’ re nearby.
” Mr Hannan said “ it must be better to have a deal with our immediate neighbours ” , but questioned the EU ’ s demands on access to British waters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I am just constantly bewildered by hearing that countries somehow trade with each other out of kindness , that having a zero tariffs regime is somehow a favour to somebody else rather than a favour to yourself and your own consumers .
“ We are negotiating zero-tariff trade deals with Australia and New Zealand at the moment .
`` No-one is suggesting that there needs to be an element of oversight over each other ’ s regulations in order to do that , and the reason we ’ re doing is not just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s because it ’ s good for both of us .
“ The EU is not prepared frankly to take that attitude in the way that it does with everyone else.
” Negotiations between Britain and the European Union over a post-Brexit trade deal are complex and France will oppose any pact that `` sacrifices '' its fishermen , French European Affairs Minister Clement Beaune said on Tuesday .
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Newsnight: Hannan says he’s ‘bewildered’ over Brexit suggestion
Speaking to the former British MEP, the BBC Newsnight host claimed the UK should give up some of its regained power to the EU in order to come to a post-Brexit trading agreement. She said: "Isn't that the crux of it? That actually, the more we talk about sovereignty, the more it sounds like we can't give up any of our power that is needed to do any bilateral trade deal.
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"That's what you have to do. "You have to invest in trust with another side." But Daniel Hannan, now trade adviser to the Government, dismantled the BBC host's argument. He said: “That is emphatically not what we are doing, because after the rejection of the Salzburg terms when we were told ‘Look if you want to leave it’s got to be on the simple Canada type deals’, we only looked at extant deals that the EU has already done. READ MORE: Brexit: Boris heads to Brussel for final push to clinch deal
BBC News: Emily Maitlis claimed the UK should trade some of its power to get a Brexit deal
Brexit news: Hannan said the EU is not prepared to treat the UK in the same way it treats others
“With South Korea, with Japan, with Canada. We did not ask for things that went beyond them, and so we’re not asking for anything unprecedented. “The EU isn’t claiming that we’re asking for something so unusual that it needs to have sovereignty, their argument bizarrely is that they need to have some oversight of our standards because we’re nearby.” Mr Hannan said “it must be better to have a deal with our immediate neighbours”, but questioned the EU’s demands on access to British waters and governance. He added: “I am just constantly bewildered by hearing that countries somehow trade with each other out of kindness, that having a zero tariffs regime is somehow a favour to somebody else rather than a favour to yourself and your own consumers.
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Brexit: Johnson and von der Leyen release trade talks statement
“We are negotiating zero-tariff trade deals with Australia and New Zealand at the moment. "No-one is suggesting that there needs to be an element of oversight over each other’s regulations in order to do that, and the reason we’re doing is not just that we like the Australians, it’s because it’s good for both of us. “The EU is not prepared frankly to take that attitude in the way that it does with everyone else.” Negotiations between Britain and the European Union over a post-Brexit trade deal are complex and France will oppose any pact that "sacrifices" its fishermen, French European Affairs Minister Clement Beaune said on Tuesday. DON'T MISS:
The EU is in a far weaker position than it pretends says LEO MCKINSTRY [COMMENT]
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Brexit latest: No deal spending breakdown