thedailyexpress--2020-07-22--EU unity unravels: Von der Leyen sells Michel down the river in stunning attack

The European Commission President lashed out at the Council chief ’ s “ vague ” proposals that led to almost 100 hours of bitter infighting between EU governments .
Talks over a €750 billion recovery fund for pandemic-stricken regions and the bloc ’ s next seven-year budget almost collapsed amid demands for a mechanism that could cut off cash flows to EU rule-breakers , such as Hungary or Poland .
The recovery fund would see the Commission borrow €750 billion on the international markets .
Eurocrats would then distribute £390 billion as grants and £360 billion as low-cost loans .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ der Leyen said : “ If you look at the original summit draft , then you can see it was vague and brought together different text blocks that don ’ t necessarily have a connection .
“ Now there is clarity in the document .
First of all the commitment to the rule of law , second the very clear mandate that the European budget , meaning the financial interests of the Union , have to be protected.
” Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban claimed a “ huge victory ” by stopping an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an authoritarian leader to limit cash handouts .
Mrs von der Leyen has claimed the budget agreement contains the necessary rule of law mechanisms .
The pact leaves the European Commission to propose measures to stop funding going to countries deemed to be breaking the rules .
The sanctions would then require the approval of a weighted majority of national governments , which needs 55 percent of member states representing 65 percent of the EU ’ s population .
Polish prime minister Mateusz Morawiecki hinted the new system could be easily be thwarted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such as the Visegrad Four of Hungary , Poland , Slovakia and the Czech Republic .
He said : “ Without the agreement of Hungary , without the agreement of Poland , without the agreement of the Visegrad group , nothing will happen.
” Germany ’ s Angela Merkel helped to broker the rule of law agreement after Mr Orban threatened to veto the entire package .
The veteran leader , who holds the EU ’ s rotating presidency , said she would support Hungary to end the Article 7 procedures , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it .
Franziska Brantner , the European affairs spokeswoman for the German Green Party , branded Mrs Merkel ’ s move as “ alarming ” .
She said : “ When she talks about ‘ ending ’ Article 7 during the German presidency , the risk is that Orban just does the bare minimum to make it go away.
” The European Parliament has also voiced concerns over the rule of law mechanisms included to police good behaviour .
DO N'T MISS How EU founders spoke of 'multispeed ' future after Brexit [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in bloc , Tice says [ INSIGHT ] Leavers laud UK ’ s exit as EU strides towards ‘ country called Europe ' [ REPORT ]

Von der Leyen says 'stakes couldn't be higher' at EU summit
The European Commission President lashed out at the Council chief’s “vague” proposals that led to almost 100 hours of bitter infighting between EU governments. Talks over a €750 billion recovery fund for pandemic-stricken regions and the bloc’s next seven-year budget almost collapsed amid demands for a mechanism that could cut off cash flows to EU rule-breakers, such as Hungary or Poland. The recovery fund would see the Commission borrow €750 billion on the international markets.
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Eurocrats would then distribute £390 billion as grants and £360 billion as low-cost loans. On the initial plans, Mrs von der Leyen said: “If you look at the original summit draft, then you can see it was vague and brought together different text blocks that don’t necessarily have a connection. “Now there is clarity in the document. First of all the commitment to the rule of law, second the very clear mandate that the European budget, meaning the financial interests of the Union, have to be protected.” Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban claimed a “huge victory” by stopping an effort by those who see him as an authoritarian leader to limit cash handouts.
Ursula von der Leyen has criticised Charles Michel's 'vague' pre-summit plans
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen
Mrs von der Leyen has claimed the budget agreement contains the necessary rule of law mechanisms. The pact leaves the European Commission to propose measures to stop funding going to countries deemed to be breaking the rules. The sanctions would then require the approval of a weighted majority of national governments, which needs 55 percent of member states representing 65 percent of the EU’s population. Polish prime minister Mateusz Morawiecki hinted the new system could be easily be thwarted by a small group of allies, such as the Visegrad Four of Hungary, Poland, Slovakia and the Czech Republic.
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European Council President Charles Michel
He said: “Without the agreement of Hungary, without the agreement of Poland, without the agreement of the Visegrad group, nothing will happen.” Germany’s Angela Merkel helped to broker the rule of law agreement after Mr Orban threatened to veto the entire package. The veteran leader, who holds the EU’s rotating presidency, said she would support Hungary to end the Article 7 procedures, the bloc’s disciplinary measures, against it. MUST READ: ITV GMB guest exposes key sign EU ‘utterly useless’
Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban
EU recovery fund will 'increase scepticism' claims Swedish MEP


thedailyexpress--2020-07-22--Speaker Lindsay Hoyle scolds Boris Johnson in BRUTAL Commons outburst: 'Go to Specsavers!'

Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle shut down Boris Johnson during a tense exchange at PMQs to remind him of Commons policy .
Sir Lindsay already interrupted the Prime Minister last week as he failed to address the chair when responding to question from Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer .
The Speaker intervened to warn Mr Johnson : `` Can I just gently say to the Prime Minister as I said last time ?
`` He may have to go to Specsavers - the chair is this way , not that way .
`` If he can address me , it would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prime Minister had already been reprimanded during last week 's PMQs after continuing to address the Chamber instead of the Speaker as he responded to Sir Keir .
Mr Johnson repeated the misstep as he raged against the Labour leader over claims the Government had ignored reports of Russian intereference during the Brexit referendum .
JUST IN : Boris erupts at Keir Starmer as Labour 's 'Islington Remainers ' blame Russia for Brexit The Prime Minister said : `` There ’ s no doubt what this really is all about , Mr Speaker @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Islingtonian Remainers who have seized on this report to try and give the impression Russian interference was somehow responsible for Brexit .
`` This is what it is all about .
But people in this country didn ’ t vote to leave the EU because of pressure from Russia or Russian interference .
`` They voted because they wanted to take back control of our money , of our trade policy , of our laws .
And the simple fact is that after campaigning for Remain , after wanting to overturn the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day out , he simply can not bring himself to accept that . ''
READ MORE : Boris shames Starmer over Russia - 'Sat on hands as Corbyn parroted Kremlin ! '
Sir Keir claimed the Government has `` sat '' on the Intelligence and Security Committe 's report for well over ten months .
The Labour leader said : `` I want to ask the Prime Minister about the extremely serious report by the Intelligence and Security Committee .
`` It concludes that Russia poses an immediate and urgent threat to our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ range of activities that includes espionage , interfering in democratic processes and serious crime .
`` The Prime Minister received that report 10 months ago .
Given that the threat is described as immediate and urgent why on earth did the Prime Minister sit on that report for so long ? ''
POLL : After Russia report , should Boris hold Brexit vote probe ?
[ POLL ] Brexit LIVE : Huge bonus celebrated - UK saved from £100billion bailout [ LIVE BLOG ] Tory MP blames MI5 and Gordon Brown over Russia @ @ @ @ @ @

PMQs: Lindsay Hoyle tells Boris Johnson to ‘go to Specsavers’
Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle shut down Boris Johnson during a tense exchange at PMQs to remind him of Commons policy. Sir Lindsay already interrupted the Prime Minister last week as he failed to address the chair when responding to question from Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer. The Speaker intervened to warn Mr Johnson: "Can I just gently say to the Prime Minister as I said last time?
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"He may have to go to Specsavers - the chair is this way, not that way. "If he can address me, it would be a lot better." The Prime Minister had already been reprimanded during last week's PMQs after continuing to address the Chamber instead of the Speaker as he responded to Sir Keir. Mr Johnson repeated the misstep as he raged against the Labour leader over claims the Government had ignored reports of Russian intereference during the Brexit referendum. JUST IN: Boris erupts at Keir Starmer as Labour's 'Islington Remainers' blame Russia for Brexit
Sir Lindsay once again told Boris Johnson to address the chair when speaking
Boris Johnson had already been reprimanded by Sir Lindsay last week
The Prime Minister said: "There’s no doubt what this really is all about, Mr Speaker. "This is about pressure from the Islingtonian Remainers who have seized on this report to try and give the impression Russian interference was somehow responsible for Brexit. "This is what it is all about. But people in this country didn’t vote to leave the EU because of pressure from Russia or Russian interference. "They voted because they wanted to take back control of our money, of our trade policy, of our laws. And the simple fact is that after campaigning for Remain, after wanting to overturn the people’s referendum day in, day out, he simply cannot bring himself to accept that." READ MORE: Boris shames Starmer over Russia - 'Sat on hands as Corbyn parroted Kremlin!'
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PMQs: Johnson slams ‘Islington Remainers’ over Russia Report
Boris Johnson said Labour wants to use the Russia report to question Brexit again
Sir Keir claimed the Government has "sat" on the Intelligence and Security Committe's report for well over ten months. The Labour leader said: "I want to ask the Prime Minister about the extremely serious report by the Intelligence and Security Committee. "It concludes that Russia poses an immediate and urgent threat to our national security and is engaged in a range of activities that includes espionage, interfering in democratic processes and serious crime. "The Prime Minister received that report 10 months ago. Given that the threat is described as immediate and urgent why on earth did the Prime Minister sit on that report for so long?" DON'T MISS: POLL: After Russia report, should Boris hold Brexit vote probe? [POLL]
Brexit LIVE: Huge bonus celebrated - UK saved from £100billion bailout [LIVE BLOG]
Tory MP blames MI5 and Gordon Brown over Russia interference in UK [INTERVIEW]
Sir Keir accused Boris Johnson of "sitting" on the report for 10 months


thedailyexpress--2020-07-22--Coronavirus POLL: Should MPs cancel their 12-week recess to focus on fighting pandemic?

Under plans introduced at the start of this year MPs are given 63 days of parliamentary recess time over the year , including seven working weeks in the summer .
MPs took a two week break from the Commons in February , which was not taken last year , and both the summer and Easter breaks are a week longer than 2019 .
This means in total , MPs are in recess for 63 days this year - equivalent of more than 12 weeks worth of holiday .
This is more than double the UK statutory minimum requirement of 5.6 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MPs cancel their time off to focus on fighting the COVID-19 crisis , which is spreading panic across the globe and has killed more than 45,000 in the UK ?
It comes after a furious row erupted between Good Morning Britain host Ranvir Singh and Labour MP Nick Thomas-Symonds ahead of parliament ’ s summer recess .
Ms Sing quizzed Mr Thomas-Symonds over whether he thought it was a good idea for MPs to go on holiday during an ongoing pandemic .
Ms Singh said : “ You do get about 12 weeks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t you ?
That ’ s an extraordinary amount.
” Under plans introduced at the start of this year MPs are given 63 days of parliamentary recess time over the year , including seven working weeks in the summer “ And incidentally I make absolutely no complaint about that , very proud to represent my constituency and be doing that work.
” Mr Thomas-Symonds said he would be “ working all through the summer ” and would be going away for three days in the UK with his three young children so he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” .
Viewers took to Twitter to express their anger at the amount of recess MPs take .
One tweeted : “ Oh get a grip 6 weeks off when NHS workers had annual leave cancelled because of the pandemic and teachers have had to work throughout .
The government are vile .
Another said : “ A lot of NHS staff had their annual leave cancelled during this pandemic and teachers have had to work throughout and MPs want 6 weeks off .
“ It ’ s disgusting , we ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We ’ re certainly not all in this together.
” One added : “ No way should they be on a break for 6 weeks while the country is in a meltdown !
!
Let try them have 2 weeks off like normal people do !
!

Nick Thomas-Symonds grilled over ‘extraordinary’ holiday length
Under plans introduced at the start of this year MPs are given 63 days of parliamentary recess time over the year, including seven working weeks in the summer. MPs took a two week break from the Commons in February, which was not taken last year, and both the summer and Easter breaks are a week longer than 2019. THIS POLL HAS NOW CLOSED...RESULTS CAN BE FOUND HERE
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This means in total, MPs are in recess for 63 days this year - equivalent of more than 12 weeks worth of holiday. This is more than double the UK statutory minimum requirement of 5.6 weeks. Express.co.uk is asking you should MPs cancel their time off to focus on fighting the COVID-19 crisis, which is spreading panic across the globe and has killed more than 45,000 in the UK?
MPs are in recess for 12 weeks
It comes after a furious row erupted between Good Morning Britain host Ranvir Singh and Labour MP Nick Thomas-Symonds ahead of parliament’s summer recess. Ms Sing quizzed Mr Thomas-Symonds over whether he thought it was a good idea for MPs to go on holiday during an ongoing pandemic. Ms Singh said: “You do get about 12 weeks of holiday as MPs, don’t you? That’s an extraordinary amount.” READ MORE: GMB host blasts Labour MP for taking '12 week holiday'
Jacob Rees-Mogg announced the new recess plan earlier this year
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Under plans introduced at the start of this year MPs are given 63 days of parliamentary recess time over the year, including seven working weeks in the summer
MPs are in recess for 63 days this year - equivalent of more than 12 weeks worth of holiday
“And incidentally I make absolutely no complaint about that, very proud to represent my constituency and be doing that work.” Mr Thomas-Symonds said he would be “working all through the summer” and would be going away for three days in the UK with his three young children so he can be “contactable for urgent things”. Viewers took to Twitter to express their anger at the amount of recess MPs take.
UK total coronavirus cases
One tweeted: “Oh get a grip 6 weeks off when NHS workers had annual leave cancelled because of the pandemic and teachers have had to work throughout. The government are vile. Another said: “A lot of NHS staff had their annual leave cancelled during this pandemic and teachers have had to work throughout and MPs want 6 weeks off. “It’s disgusting, we’re still in the middle of a pandemic. We’re certainly not all in this together.” One added: “No way should they be on a break for 6 weeks while the country is in a meltdown !! Let try them have 2 weeks off like normal people do !!


thedailyexpress--2020-07-22--Boris erupts at Keir Starmer as Labour's 'Islington Remainers' blame Russia for Brexit

The Labour leader accused the Prime Minister 's Government of `` sitting on '' the Russia report for too long before allowing the Committee to publish its findings .
But Boris Johnson furiously dismantled his argument by accusing Sir Keir of attempting to discredit the result of the Brexit referendum with Russian interference .
He said : `` Let there be no doubt what this is really all about , Mr Speaker .
`` This is about pressure from the Islingtonian Remainers who have ceased on this report to try to give the impression that Russian interference was somehow responsible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this is about .
`` The people of this country did n't vote to Leave the EU because of pressure from Russia or Russian interference .
`` They voted because they wanted to take back control of our money , of our trade policy , of our laws .
`` And the simple fact is that after campaigning for Remain , after wanting to overturn the people 's referendum , day in and day out , all while he was sitting on the Labour frontbench , he simply ca n't bring himself to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Boris Johnson to boost British security with US-style spy list Sir Keir asked the Prime Minister why he `` sat on '' the ISC 's report into Russian interference in UK politics for 10 months .
During PMQs , he asked Mr Johnson : `` I want to ask the Prime Minister about the extremely serious report by the Intelligence and Security Committee .
`` It concludes that Russia poses an immediate and urgent threat to our national security and is engaged in a range of activities that includes espionage , interfering in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Prime Minister received that report 10 months ago .
Given that the threat is described as immediate and urgent why on earth did the Prime Minister sit on that report for so long ? ''
Responding to Sir Keir , Mr Johnson told the Commons when he was Foreign Secretary he took `` the strongest possible action '' against Russia .
He added : `` The right honourable gentleman opposite sat on his hands and said nothing while the Labour Party parroted the line of the Kremlin when people in this country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Putin . ''
Sir Keir replied : `` I stood up and condemned what happened in Salisbury and ...
I supported then-Prime Minister on record , so I 'd ask the Prime Minister to check the record . ''
Parliament 's Intelligence and Security Committee said in a report published on Tuesday that Russia had interfered in the 2014 Scottish independence referendum but it had not seen hard evidence of Russian meddling in the Brexit vote .
While MPs noted allegations of meddling in Brexit , and some studies pointed to Russian attempts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the British Government and intelligence agencies had not sought out evidence of Russian interference .
`` There needs to be some evidence that there 's an issue there - which there is n't , '' Transport Secretary Grant Shapps told Sky when asked if there should be a further investigation of possible Russian meddling in the European Union referendum .
DO N'T MISS : POLL : After Russia report , should Boris hold Brexit vote probe ?
[ POLL ] Brexit LIVE : Huge bonus celebrated - UK saved from £100billion bailout [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Gordon Brown over Russia interference in UK [ INTERVIEW ]

PMQs: Johnson slams ‘Islington Remainers’ over Russia Report
The Labour leader accused the Prime Minister's Government of "sitting on" the Russia report for too long before allowing the Committee to publish its findings. But Boris Johnson furiously dismantled his argument by accusing Sir Keir of attempting to discredit the result of the Brexit referendum with Russian interference. He said: "Let there be no doubt what this is really all about, Mr Speaker.
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"This is about pressure from the Islingtonian Remainers who have ceased on this report to try to give the impression that Russian interference was somehow responsible for Brexit. "That's what this is about. "The people of this country didn't vote to Leave the EU because of pressure from Russia or Russian interference. "They voted because they wanted to take back control of our money, of our trade policy, of our laws. "And the simple fact is that after campaigning for Remain, after wanting to overturn the people's referendum, day in and day out, all while he was sitting on the Labour frontbench, he simply can't bring himself to accept that." READ MORE: Boris Johnson to boost British security with US-style spy list
Boris Johnson accused Keir Starmer using Russia report to reverse Brexit
PMQs: Keir Starmer said Boris Johnson 'sat on' Russia report for 10 months
Sir Keir asked the Prime Minister why he "sat on" the ISC's report into Russian interference in UK politics for 10 months. During PMQs, he asked Mr Johnson: "I want to ask the Prime Minister about the extremely serious report by the Intelligence and Security Committee. "It concludes that Russia poses an immediate and urgent threat to our national security and is engaged in a range of activities that includes espionage, interfering in democratic processes and serious crime. "The Prime Minister received that report 10 months ago. Given that the threat is described as immediate and urgent why on earth did the Prime Minister sit on that report for so long?" Responding to Sir Keir, Mr Johnson told the Commons when he was Foreign Secretary he took "the strongest possible action" against Russia. He added: "The right honourable gentleman opposite sat on his hands and said nothing while the Labour Party parroted the line of the Kremlin when people in this country were poisoned at the orders of Vladimir Putin."
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PMQs: Johnson says Starmer 'sat on hands' after Salisbury attack
Sir Keir replied: "I stood up and condemned what happened in Salisbury and... I supported then-Prime Minister on record, so I'd ask the Prime Minister to check the record." Parliament's Intelligence and Security Committee said in a report published on Tuesday that Russia had interfered in the 2014 Scottish independence referendum but it had not seen hard evidence of Russian meddling in the Brexit vote. While MPs noted allegations of meddling in Brexit, and some studies pointed to Russian attempts to influence the campaign, they said the British Government and intelligence agencies had not sought out evidence of Russian interference. "There needs to be some evidence that there's an issue there - which there isn't," Transport Secretary Grant Shapps told Sky when asked if there should be a further investigation of possible Russian meddling in the European Union referendum. DON'T MISS:
POLL: After Russia report, should Boris hold Brexit vote probe? [POLL]
Brexit LIVE: Huge bonus celebrated - UK saved from £100billion bailout [LIVE BLOG]
Tory MP blames MI5 and Gordon Brown over Russia interference in UK [INTERVIEW]


thedailyexpress--2020-07-22--SNP's 'bizarre' independence farce exposed as Boris mocks 'handing power to unelected EU'

SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford claimed the British Government has been helping fuel support for the independence campaign with its conduct through the coronavirus pandemic .
Mr Blackford suggested the proposed UK Internal Market Bill Boris Johnson devised would limit Scotland 's trade and cut the nation off from the bigger EU market .
But the Prime Minister was quick to point out the bill would grant more powers to Edinburgh than the Scottish Government would have under the European Union .
Mr Johnson said : `` I really hesitate to accuse the Right Honourable Gentleman of failing to listen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very clear that the UK Internal Market Bill is massively devolutionary .
`` The 70 powers passed from Brussels down to Scotland…it ’ s purpose is very sensible , which is to protect jobs throughout the entire UK .
`` On a political level , it seems bizarre to me that the Scottish Nationalist Party actually want to reverse that process , hand those powers back to unelected , unaccountable bureaucrats in Brussels .
`` Is that really the policy ?
I don ’ t think it ’ s sensible . ''
JUST @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forced UK to pay into bailout 'thank God we left ! '
Once the UK has left the single market and the customs union in December , the country will no longer be bound to EU regulations and Westminster is set to repatriate powers on several areas .
The devolved nations are also expected to regain full control of key sectors which however could create some internal divergence within the UK .
Mr Blackford suggested the Government is now “ panicking ” at the prospect of further division with Scotland fuelling support for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ The Tory Party held a political Cabinet with the Prime Minister in a panic about the majority and increasing support of Scottish independence .
READ MORE : Speaker Lindsay Hoyle scolds Boris Johnson in BRUTAL Commons outburst : 'Go to Specsavers ! '
`` Apparently , their great strategy amounts to more UK Cabinet members coming to Scotland .
`` Can I tell the Prime Minister the more Scotland sees of this UK Government , the more convinced they are for the need of Scottish independence .
`` A far better @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will of the Scottish people . ''
SNP MP ’ s Stewart Hosie , Margaret Ferrier and Joanna Cherry earlier this week backed a motion calling for Scotland to receive additional powers to help shape post-Brexit trade agreements .
POLL : After Russia report , should Boris hold Brexit vote probe ?
[ POLL ] Brexit LIVE : Huge bonus celebrated - UK saved from £100billion bailout [ LIVE BLOG ] Tory MP blames MI5 and Gordon Brown over Russia interference in UK [ INTERVIEW ]

PMQs: Johnson slams Blackford for ‘bizarre’ independence plans
SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford claimed the British Government has been helping fuel support for the independence campaign with its conduct through the coronavirus pandemic. Mr Blackford suggested the proposed UK Internal Market Bill Boris Johnson devised would limit Scotland's trade and cut the nation off from the bigger EU market. But the Prime Minister was quick to point out the bill would grant more powers to Edinburgh than the Scottish Government would have under the European Union.
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Mr Johnson said: "I really hesitate to accuse the Right Honourable Gentleman of failing to listen to my last answer but it is very clear that the UK Internal Market Bill is massively devolutionary. "The 70 powers passed from Brussels down to Scotland…it’s purpose is very sensible, which is to protect jobs throughout the entire UK. "On a political level, it seems bizarre to me that the Scottish Nationalist Party actually want to reverse that process, hand those powers back to unelected, unaccountable bureaucrats in Brussels. "Is that really the policy? I don’t think it’s sensible." JUST IN: Enormous total EU could've forced UK to pay into bailout 'thank God we left!'
SNP's Ian Blackford saw Boris Johnson dismiss his claims about Scottish independence
Ian Blackford accused Boris Johnson of being "in a panic" over Scotland
Once the UK has left the single market and the customs union in December, the country will no longer be bound to EU regulations and Westminster is set to repatriate powers on several areas. The devolved nations are also expected to regain full control of key sectors which however could create some internal divergence within the UK. Mr Blackford suggested the Government is now “panicking” at the prospect of further division with Scotland fuelling support for independence. The SNP Westminster leader said: “The Tory Party held a political Cabinet with the Prime Minister in a panic about the majority and increasing support of Scottish independence. READ MORE: Speaker Lindsay Hoyle scolds Boris Johnson in BRUTAL Commons outburst: 'Go to Specsavers!'
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Scotland: Independence bid 'eclipsed' by pandemic says Leonard
Ian Blackford has long been an avid supporter of Scottish independence plans


thedailyexpress--2020-07-22--PMQs LIVE: Boris shames Starmer over Russia - 'Sat on hands as Corbyn parroted Kremlin!'

He said : `` The right honourable gentleman opposite ( Sir Keir Starmer ) sat on his hands and said nothing while the Labour Party parroted the line of the Kremlin when people in this country were poisoned at the orders of Vladimir Putin . ''
Sir Keir replied : `` I stood up and condemned what happened in Salisbury and ...
I supported then-prime minister ( Theresa May ) on record , so I 'd ask the Prime Minister to check the record . ''
It comes after the Labour leader asked the Prime Minister why he `` sat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's report into Russian interference in UK politics for 10 months .
During PMQs , he asked Mr Johnson : `` I want to ask the Prime Minister about the extremely serious report by the Intelligence and Security Committee .
`` It concludes that Russia poses an immediate and urgent threat to our national security and is engaged in a range of activities that includes espionage , interfering in democratic processes and serious crime .
`` The Prime Minister received that report 10 months ago .
Given that the threat is described as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Prime Minister sit on that report for so long ? ''
READ MORE : Boris erupts at Starmer over 'Remainers ' blaming Russia for Brexit Caroline Nokes raised the issue of coronavirus disproportionately impacting the BAME community , men and those who are overweight .
She asked the PM what was being done to reduce `` fat shaming '' and to instead focus on increasing the country 's health .
Mr Johnson said he was aware Britain is `` considerably fatter than most other European nations , other than Malta I believe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bringing forward a strategy '' .
12.18pm update : Boris vows children will return to school in September The PM gave his wholehearted supported after being asked whether he was in favour of seeing schoolchildren `` back where they become , in the classroom , in September '' .
He replied : `` I absolutely agree and it would be wonderful to hear the Labour party stand up and say the same thing to their friends in the unions . ''
DO N'T MISS Speaker Lindsay Hoyle scold Boris Johnson in BRUTAL Commons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tantrum as he 's left furious Brexiteers to be honoured [ INSIGHT ] Coronavirus map LIVE : Chaos on the horizon as UK given dire warning [ BLOG ] SNP 's Westminster leader Ian Blackford , alluding to a new bill removing power from Scotland , asked : `` Will the PM call a halt to his government 's full-frontal attack on devolution ? ''
A baffled Mr Johnson replied : `` Mr Speaker , I really do n't know what the Rt Hon Gentleman is talking about .
The only bill I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Market Bill ... this gives huge powers straight from Brussels to Scotland , it 's principle purpose is to protect jobs , protect growth .
Anybody sensible , Mr Speaker , would support it . ''
Mr Blackford retorted : `` Anybody sensible would realise from that answer that the PM just does n't get Scotland . ''
Keir Starmer hit back at Mr Johnson over accusations of U-turns , especially on the subject of Russia after Mr Corbyn appeared on Russia Today .
`` Mr Speaker , pre-prepared gags on flip-flops ... @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two versions of every article ever published .
`` Unless the PM has n't noticed , this party is under new management and no frontbencher of this party has appeared on Russia Today since I 've been leading this party . ''
`` Mr Speaker , pre-prepared gags on flip-flops ... this is the former columnist who wrote two versions of every article ever published .
`` Unless the PM has n't noticed , this party is under new management and no frontbencher of this party has appeared on Russia Today since I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Starmer said : `` I see the PM is already on his prepared lines .
`` This is a serious question of national security .
He sat on this report for 10 months .
`` Mr Speaker , one of the starkest conclusions is that the UK is clearly a target .
`` The report refers to this as a hot potato .
This is not about powers , it is about responsibility .
`` How is the PM going to meet this threat ? ''
Mr Johnson said there is `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taking more steps to meet the challenges posed by Russian interference .
He accused those criticising the result of being unable to accept the result of the 2016 Brexit referendum .
Keir said the Russia report was `` clear '' the Tory Government underestimated the threat from Russia .
But the PM said Mr Starmer `` at on his hands and said nothing '' after the Salisbury attack , when Jeremy Corbyn `` parroted the Kremlin '' .
Keir Starmer said national security will always be a top priority for Labour under his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he is going to do about the growing threat to the UK from Russia and said the findings in the Russia report were `` extremely serious '' .
He asked the Prime Minister why he `` sat on '' the Intelligence and Security Committee 's report into Russian interference in UK politics for 10 months .
Mr Starmer said : `` I want to ask the Prime Minister about the extremely serious report by the Intelligence and Security Committee .
`` It concludes that Russia poses an immediate and urgent threat to our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ range of activities that includes espionage , interfering in democratic processes and serious crime .
`` The Prime Minister received that report 10 months ago .
Given that the threat is described as immediate and urgent why on earth did the Prime Minister sit on that report for so long ? ''
Mr Johnson said he has been taking the strongest possible action against Russia .
Responding to Sir Keir , Mr Johnson told the Commons when he was foreign secretary he took `` the strongest possible action '' against Russia .
During @ @ @ @ @ @ @ honourable gentleman opposite ( Sir Keir Starmer ) sat on his hands and said nothing while the Labour Party parroted the line of the Kremlin when people in this country were poisoned at the orders of Vladimir Putin . ''
Sir Keir replied : `` I stood up and condemned what happened in Salisbury and ...
I supported then-prime minister ( Theresa May ) on record , so I 'd ask the Prime Minister to check the record . ''

PMQs: Johnson says Starmer 'sat on hands' after Salisbury attack
Boris Johnson told the Commons the Labour leader "said nothing" as his party "parroted the line of the Kremlin" during the Salisbury poisonings. The Prime Minister said when he was foreign secretary he took "the strongest possible action" against Russia.
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He said: "The right honourable gentleman opposite (Sir Keir Starmer) sat on his hands and said nothing while the Labour Party parroted the line of the Kremlin when people in this country were poisoned at the orders of Vladimir Putin." Sir Keir replied: "I stood up and condemned what happened in Salisbury and... I supported then-prime minister (Theresa May) on record, so I'd ask the Prime Minister to check the record." It comes after the Labour leader asked the Prime Minister why he "sat on" the Intelligence and Security Committee's report into Russian interference in UK politics for 10 months.
Boris Johnson and Keir Starmer are set for a showdown during today's PMQs
Boris Johnson hit out at Keir Starmer during a row over Russia
During PMQs, he asked Mr Johnson: "I want to ask the Prime Minister about the extremely serious report by the Intelligence and Security Committee. "It concludes that Russia poses an immediate and urgent threat to our national security and is engaged in a range of activities that includes espionage, interfering in democratic processes and serious crime. "The Prime Minister received that report 10 months ago. Given that the threat is described as immediate and urgent why on earth did the Prime Minister sit on that report for so long?" FOLLOW EXPRESS.CO.UK BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES READ MORE: Boris erupts at Starmer over 'Remainers' blaming Russia for Brexit
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Boris Johnson told Keir Stamer he has "more flip flops than Bournemouth beach".
12.22pm update: Boris quizzed over coronavirus Caroline Nokes raised the issue of coronavirus disproportionately impacting the BAME community, men and those who are overweight. She asked the PM what was being done to reduce "fat shaming" and to instead focus on increasing the country's health. Mr Johnson said he was aware Britain is "considerably fatter than most other European nations, other than Malta I believe" and promised the Government was "bringing forward a strategy". 12.18pm update: Boris vows children will return to school in September The PM gave his wholehearted supported after being asked whether he was in favour of seeing schoolchildren "back where they become, in the classroom, in September". He replied: "I absolutely agree and it would be wonderful to hear the Labour party stand up and say the same thing to their friends in the unions." DON'T MISS
Speaker Lindsay Hoyle scold Boris Johnson in BRUTAL Commons outburst [VIDEO]
SNP MP throws tantrum as he's left furious Brexiteers to be honoured [INSIGHT]
Coronavirus map LIVE: Chaos on the horizon as UK given dire warning [BLOG]
PMQs: Boris Johnson hits out at Keir Starmer over 'flip flops'
12.14pm update: Ian Blackford accuses Government of 'full-frontal attack on devolution' SNP's Westminster leader Ian Blackford, alluding to a new bill removing power from Scotland, asked: "Will the PM call a halt to his government's full-frontal attack on devolution?" A baffled Mr Johnson replied: "Mr Speaker, I really don't know what the Rt Hon Gentleman is talking about. The only bill I can think about is the UK Internal Market Bill ... this gives huge powers straight from Brussels to Scotland, it's principle purpose is to protect jobs, protect growth. Anybody sensible, Mr Speaker, would support it." Mr Blackford retorted: "Anybody sensible would realise from that answer that the PM just doesn't get Scotland." 12.10pm update: Labour leader hits back Keir Starmer hit back at Mr Johnson over accusations of U-turns, especially on the subject of Russia after Mr Corbyn appeared on Russia Today. "Mr Speaker, pre-prepared gags on flip-flops... this is the former columnist who wrote two versions of every article ever published.
"Unless the PM hasn't noticed, this party is under new management and no frontbencher of this party has appeared on Russia Today since I've been leading this party." "Mr Speaker, pre-prepared gags on flip-flops... this is the former columnist who wrote two versions of every article ever published."Unless the PM hasn't noticed, this party is under new management and no frontbencher of this party has appeared on Russia Today since I've been leading this party."
Ian Blackford accused the Government of 'full-frontal attack on devolution'
Keir Starmer was quizzed during a Russia row
12.06pm update: Labour leader presses on Russia row Mr Starmer said: "I see the PM is already on his prepared lines. "This is a serious question of national security. He sat on this report for 10 months. "Mr Speaker, one of the starkest conclusions is that the UK is clearly a target. "The report refers to this as a hot potato. This is not about powers, it is about responsibility. "How is the PM going to meet this threat?" Mr Johnson said there is "no other government in the world" taking more steps to meet the challenges posed by Russian interference. He accused those criticising the result of being unable to accept the result of the 2016 Brexit referendum. 12.03pm update: Boris lashes out in Russia Row Keir said the Russia report was "clear" the Tory Government underestimated the threat from Russia. But the PM said Mr Starmer "at on his hands and said nothing" after the Salisbury attack, when Jeremy Corbyn "parroted the Kremlin".
PMQs: Boris Johnson tells Labour to 'stand up' to school unions
12.02pm update: Keir Starmer says national security 'top priority' Keir Starmer said national security will always be a top priority for Labour under his leadership.
He asked Mr Johnson what he is going to do about the growing threat to the UK from Russia and said the findings in the Russia report were "extremely serious". He asked the Prime Minister why he "sat on" the Intelligence and Security Committee's report into Russian interference in UK politics for 10 months. Mr Starmer said: "I want to ask the Prime Minister about the extremely serious report by the Intelligence and Security Committee. "It concludes that Russia poses an immediate and urgent threat to our national security and is engaged in a range of activities that includes espionage, interfering in democratic processes and serious crime. "The Prime Minister received that report 10 months ago. Given that the threat is described as immediate and urgent why on earth did the Prime Minister sit on that report for so long?" Mr Johnson said he has been taking the strongest possible action against Russia. Responding to Sir Keir, Mr Johnson told the Commons when he was foreign secretary he took "the strongest possible action" against Russia. During PMQs he added: "The right honourable gentleman opposite (Sir Keir Starmer) sat on his hands and said nothing while the Labour Party parroted the line of the Kremlin when people in this country were poisoned at the orders of Vladimir Putin." Sir Keir replied: "I stood up and condemned what happened in Salisbury and... I supported then-prime minister (Theresa May) on record, so I'd ask the Prime Minister to check the record."


thedailyexpress--2020-07-22--POLL: After Russia report criticism, should Boris hold new investigation into Brexit vote?

The document , compiled by Parliament 's intelligence and security committee , was published yesterday , and claimed the Government failed to establish the extent of Russian effort to interfere in the UK political process four years ago .
The report further suggested intelligence services should investigate and make their findings public - but the Government has largely dismissed the claims , with Transport Secretary Grant Shapps suggesting there was simply no proof .
Speaking today , Mr Shapps told Sky : `` There needs to be some evidence that there 's an issue there - which there is n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the case that the intelligence services took their eye off the ball . ''
Mr Shapps ' remarks built on those of a Government spokesman yesterday , who said : `` We have seen no evidence of successful interference in the EU referendum . ''
An inquiry was not required because the UK 's spy agencies made `` regular assessments '' of the Russian threat , the spokesman said .
He added : `` Given this long-standing approach , a retrospective assessment of the EU referendum is not necessary . ''
Meanwhile a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minister was confident the referendum result to leave the EU was fair .
JUST IN : Europe has never needed Britain more says German ex-MEP He added : `` We have a long period recognising the enduring and significant threat posed by Russia .
We are not for a second complacent . ''
The report said it had been unable to determine whether Russia had sought to influence the referendum result .
DO N'T MISS South China Sea chaos : US plays deadly game of chicken with China [ ANALYSIS ] Armed Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ FOCUS ] South China Sea : Beijing warplanes in fearsome exercises amid US row [ SPOTLIGHT ] When asked for evidence on suspected Russian meddling in the vote , Britain 's main domestic intelligence agency MI5 produced just six lines of text , the committee said .
The report suggested Russia was a hostile power which posed a significant threat to Britain , and which was involved in a range of clandestine activities , from espionage and cyber to election meddling and laundering dirty money .
It added : `` It appears that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top Western intelligence targets . ''
On the question of Russian election meddling , Stewart Hosie , a Scottish National Party member of the committee , told reporters : `` The key point is they had not sought even to ask that question and that is at the heart of this report . ''
Russia has repeatedly denied meddling in the West , casting the United States and Britain as gripped by anti-Russian hysteria .
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said : `` Russia has never interfered in the electoral processes of any country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ States , not Britain , nor any other countries . ''

Russia Report: 'No evidence' of EU referendum issue says Shapps
The document, compiled by Parliament's intelligence and security committee, was published yesterday, and claimed the Government failed to establish the extent of Russian effort to interfere in the UK political process four years ago. The report further suggested intelligence services should investigate and make their findings public - but the Government has largely dismissed the claims, with Transport Secretary Grant Shapps suggesting there was simply no proof. THIS POLL HAS NOW CLOSED - SEE RESULTS HERE.
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There needs to be some evidence that there's an issue there - which there isn't Grant Shapps
Speaking today, Mr Shapps told Sky: "There needs to be some evidence that there's an issue there - which there isn't. "I don't think its the case that the intelligence services took their eye off the ball." Mr Shapps' remarks built on those of a Government spokesman yesterday, who said: "We have seen no evidence of successful interference in the EU referendum."
The report suggests Vladimir Putin's Russia sought to interfere in the 2016 vote
An inquiry was not required because the UK's spy agencies made "regular assessments" of the Russian threat, the spokesman said. He added: "Given this long-standing approach, a retrospective assessment of the EU referendum is not necessary." Meanwhile a spokesman for Mr Johnson said the Prime Minister was confident the referendum result to leave the EU was fair. JUST IN: Europe has never needed Britain more says German ex-MEP
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Boris Johnson leaves the Foreign Office yesterday
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps, interviewed on Sky News, insisted there was no evidence of meddling
SNP MP Stewart Hosie
When asked for evidence on suspected Russian meddling in the vote, Britain's main domestic intelligence agency MI5 produced just six lines of text, the committee said. The report suggested Russia was a hostile power which posed a significant threat to Britain, and which was involved in a range of clandestine activities, from espionage and cyber to election meddling and laundering dirty money. It added: "It appears that Russia considers the UK one of its top Western intelligence targets."
Referendum result 2016
On the question of Russian election meddling, Stewart Hosie, a Scottish National Party member of the committee, told reporters: "The key point is they had not sought even to ask that question and that is at the heart of this report." Russia has repeatedly denied meddling in the West, casting the United States and Britain as gripped by anti-Russian hysteria. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "Russia has never interfered in the electoral processes of any country in the world - not the United States, not Britain, nor any other countries."
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab


thedailyexpress--2020-07-22--Brexit LIVE: Boris exposes Remainer conspiracy to discredit 2016 referendum result

The Prime Minister made the comments in the House of Commons after a report a report from the Intelligence and Security Committee ( ISC ) said the Government had failed to investigate whether Moscow had meddled in the referendum .
In a fiery clash in the House of Commons with Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer , he said : `` Let 's be in no doubt what this is really all about .
This is about pressure from the Islingtonian Remainers who have seized on this report to try to give the impression that Russian interference was somehow responsible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this is all about .
The people of this country did n't vote to leave the EU because of pressure from Russia or Russian interference , they voted because they wanted to take back control of our money , our trade policy and our laws . ''
Mr Johnson also accused Sir Keir of being unable to `` bring himself to accept that '' .
The latest comments comes with reports Britain is on the verge of abandoning all hope of agreeing a post-Brexit free trade deal with the EU , with no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such as fisheries .
Senior UK sources told The Daily Telegraph they are now working on the assumption Britain will revert to World Trade Organisation ( WTO ) terms with the bloc from January 1 , 2021 .
Insiders said they assume `` there wo n't be a deal '' but added that it remains possible that a `` basic '' agreement could be thrashed out over the coming weeks or months .
One source told the newspaper : `` The Government has been making it clear for a while that it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is n't going to budge on fundamentals like fishing rights , so it 's all in the hands of the EU . ''
The latest round of crunch talks resumes in London today .
1pm update : UK did not vote for Brexit because of Russia pressure - Boris Johnson He said during Prime Minister 's Questions in a fiery clah with Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer : `` Let 's be in no doubt what this is really all about .
`` This is about pressure from the Islingtonian Remainers who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to give the impression that Russian interference was somehow responsible for Brexit .
`` That 's what this is all about .
The people of this country did n't vote to leave the EU because of pressure from Russia or Russian interference , they voted because they wanted to take back control of our money , our trade policy and our laws . ''
Mr Johnson also accused Sir Keir of being unable to `` bring himself to accept that '' .
12.13pm update : Labour MP orders second Brexit referendum because decision @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Barry Sheerman has called for a second Brexit referendum calling the decision to leave invalid .
Following statement negotiations and the recent Russia report into claims the Kremlin meddled with UK elections and referendums , Mr Sheerman has called for a second Brexit vote .
Writing on Twitter , Mr Sheerman said : “ The decision to leave the European Union can no longer be regarded as valid or legitimate we must now delay our departure & hold a fresh referendum !
” The pound has moved quickly away from six-week highs amid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agree a post-Brexit trade deal before the end of the transition period .
Sterling is down 0.6 percent against the US dollar at $ 1.2653 and has falled 0.5 percent against the euro at 91.04 pence .
The British currency had briefly risen above $ 1.27 for the first time in six weeks on Tuesday .
Derek Halpenny , head of research at MUFG , said : `` The performance of the pound in recent weeks suggests Brexit risks are starting to play a role . ''
10.20am update : Government promises new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ states The UK 's Government has promised new powers to help Britain 's spies `` clamp down '' on the activity of hostile states , after a damning report on the response to Russian actions targeting the UK .
Ministers are considering introducing a law that would require people working on behalf of foreign states to formally register their activities .
The Law commission is reviewing the Official Secrets Act , which the Intelligence and Security Committee ( ISC ) branded `` out of date '' in its report on Russia .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recognise the potential threat posed by Russia and did not properly consider whether the country could interfere in the Brexit referendum from 2016 until after the vote took place .
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme : `` We want to be able to look at the activities , clamp down on the activities of hostile states which threaten the UK , '' he told BBC Radio 4 's Today .
`` But no individual power on its own is going to resolve that .
It 's another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not going to be the only solution .
`` We do have very broad powers in existence already for our intelligence and security agencies . ''
9.02am update : Brexit POLL : After criticism of Russia report , should Boris hold new investigation into Brexit vote ?
The publication of a hard-hitting report into Russian influence in the UK has once again focused attention on the 2016 Brexit referendum amid claims Vladimir Putin sought to meddle in UK 's decision to quit the EU - so today Express.co.uk are being being asked : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ launch a fresh probe into the matter ?
The document , compiled by Parliament 's intelligence and security committee , was published yesterday , and claimed the Government failed to establish the extent of Russian effort to interfere in the UK political process four years ago .
The report further suggested intelligence services should investigate and make their findings public - but the Government has largely dismissed the claims , with Transport Secretary Grant Shapps suggesting there was simply no proof .
8.50am update : Scotland 's no deal PANIC : Anti-Brexit campaign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bloc A cross-party campaign has been launched to ensure Scotland has a close relationship with the EU after Brexit Britain fully cuts ties with the bloc at the end of the year , as a poll revealed the majority of Scots wished the UK 's EU exit was reversed .
The eu+me campaign is chaired by former North East Fife MP Stephen Gethins and the campaign 's director is the SNP 's former head of communications , Fergus Mutch .
Mr Mutch said the campaign will be a `` grassroots-led force for positive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scotland 's relationship with Europe .
The poll , undertaken by Survation revealed that 65 percent of Scots regret the Brexit result while 62 percent of Scots would want to rejoin the EU .
Meanwhile , the other 38 percent would opt to stay out of the EU , excluding those who answered : `` do n't know '' .
More than a third ( 35.7 percent ) of the 1,127 Scots surveyed between June 10th and 16th believe the economic impact of coronavirus would have been reduced if the UK remained in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ failure ' not to investigate Russian influence during Brexit vote Lord Peter Ricketts , a former national security adviser , has warned it was a `` serious failure '' not to investigate Russian influence during the Brexit vote .
He told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme : `` Even after the revelations of the massive Russian attack on the US Democratic Party , which came a month or two after the referendum , the Government of the day did n't ask for a rapid assessment of whether there had been any similar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ try to influence the referendum campaign , and I think that was a serious failure . ''
8.20am update : No evidence of Russian meddling in Brexit vote - Grant Shapps There is no evidence of Russian interference in the Brexit referendum from 2016 and Britain 's spied did not take their eyes off the ball on Russia , Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has insisted .
On Tuesday , the parliament 's Intelligence and Security Committee said in a published report there were open source indications that Russia had sought to influence the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been produced .
When appearing on Sky News this morning , Mr Shapps was asked if there should be a further investigation of possible Russian meddling in the European Union referendum .
He replied : `` There needs to be some evidence that there 's an issue there - which there is n't .
`` I do n't think its the case that the intelligence services took their eye off the ball , '' 8am update : Brexit talks on the brink of COLLAPSE as UK close to abandoning hope of EU trade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hope of striking a free trade deal with the European Union , according to reports .
Senior sources in the Government have told The Daily Telegraph it is now the working assumption the UK will trade with the bloc on WTO terms after December 31 .
Sources said they assume `` there wo n't be a deal '' but added that it remains possible that a `` basic '' agreement could be thrashed out over the coming weeks or months .
Businesses across the UK have already been told to ready themselves for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Daily Telegraph quoted a senior Government source as saying the UK 's negotiating team - led by David Frost - is not willing to compromise on key issues such as access to fishing waters .
The source said : `` The Government has been making it clear for a while that it is prepared for no deal .
`` Britain is n't going to budge on fundamentals like fishing rights , so it 's all in the hands of the EU . ''

PMQs: Johnson slams ‘Islington Remainers’ over Russia Report
THIS BLOG IS NOW CLOSED. Click HERE for your latest Brexit updates Labour MPs took aim at the Prime Minister on social media after the Government dismissed the intelligence committee’s call for an urgent investigation into “potential” Russian interference in the vote on EU membership. Speaking during PMQs this afternoon, Mr Johnson accused Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer of "flip-flopping" on Brexit as he claimed "Islingtonian Remainers" were seeking to use the report to "give the impression that Russian interference was somehow responsible for Brexit."
Labour MP for Tottenham David Lammy tweeted: "Boris Johnson accusing anyone of "flip-flopping" at #PMQs is a bad joke.
"This Prime Minister is so lacking in principle that he wrote two columns, one pro-Brexit and one anti-Brexit, before deciding to publish the one which was best, not for the country, but his personal career."
Fellow Labour MP Lisa Nandy said the Prime Minister's response to the report was "shameful".
She said: "Serious questions about the gaping holes the Government left in our national security and the PM rants about Brexit and makes bad jokes about flip flops on Bournemouth Beach.
"Our security services and armed forces put their lives on the line to keep us safe.
"This is shameful."
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Former Labour spin doctor Alastair Campbell accused Mr Johnson of selling the UK "for a few tennis matches with Russians". A report from the Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) said the Government had failed to investigate whether Moscow had meddled in the Brexit referendum. In a fiery clash in the House of Commons with Sir Keir, the Prime Minister said: "Let's be in no doubt what this is really all about. This is about pressure from the Islingtonian Remainers who have seized on this report to try to give the impression that Russian interference was somehow responsible for Brexit. "That's what this is all about. The people of this country didn't vote to leave the European Union because of pressure from Russia or Russian interference, they voted because they wanted to take back control of our money, our trade policy and our laws." The latest comments comes with reports Britain is on the verge of abandoning all hope of agreeing a post-Brexit free trade deal with the EU, with no breakthrough in sight on major sticking points such as fisheries. Senior UK sources told The Daily Telegraph they are now working on the assumption Britain will revert to World Trade Organisation (WTO) terms with the bloc from January 1, 2021.
Brexit news: Boris Johnson lashed out at 'Islington Remainers' over the Russia report
Brexit news: The Prime Minister said the UK did not vote for Brexit because of pressure from Russia
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Insiders said they assume "there won't be a deal" but added that it remains possible that a "basic" agreement could be thrashed out over the coming weeks or months. One source told the newspaper: "The Government has been making it clear for a while that it is prepared for no deal. "Britain isn't going to budge on fundamentals like fishing rights, so it's all in the hands of the EU." The latest round of crunch talks resumes in London today. FOLLOW EXPRESS.CO.UK FOR THE LATEST BREXIT UPDATES:
Brexit news: Keir Starmer clashed with Boris Johnson during Prime Minister's Questions
7:30am update: THIS BLOG IS NOW CLOSED. Click HERE for your latest Brexit updates 6:50am update: NGOs call on EU to learn lessons from pandemic on homelessnesss Homelessness charities are urging the EU to make coronavirus measures housing rough sleepers permanent. EU countries commandeered hotels and holiday homes at the peak of the pandemic to house tens of thousands of homeless people, leaving the number of rough sleepers in the EU nearly at zero. In their annual report on housing exclusion in Europe, published Thursday, the foundation and homelessness federation FEANTSA call on the bloc to use what was learned during the peak of the crisis and commit to eradicating homelessness by 2030. Freek Spinnewijn, director of FEANTSA, said: "If you know that the total financial envelope that the Council agreed upon is €1.8 trillion for the next seven years, you need a fraction of that to actually support member states to change the way they address homelessness. "If you look at how much money goes into helping the tourist industry and agriculture ... it's absolutely a question of political will. “We're not asking the impossible." 6:09am update: Italian PM slammed as ‘surrendering’ by opposition parties after budget talks Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte has been accused of ’unconditional surrender’ by opposition parties after announcing Italy would be the biggest beneficiary of the EU’s COVID-19 recovery fund. The budget agreement in Brussels means that countries must commit to following a recovery plan, including economic reforms, in order to access the €312.5 billion grant for coronavirus relief. For opposition parties it has evoked memories of Troika, which was the decision group formed by the European Commission, the European Central Bank and the International Monetary Fund that is associated with Greece’s brutal austerity after their 2015 debt crisis. Roberto Fiore, head of the Forza Nuova party, said on Twitter: “The Troika have won. “We get €68 billion in grants at a very high price — every last residue of our sovereignty.” Matteo Salvini, leader of the League, also hit out at the deal, saying the conditions of the recovery fund equaled “an unconditional surrender” from Conte. 4:50am update: MPs warned ‘cultural wasteland’ Britain if no support for the arts MPs have warned the Government that “failure” to act swiftly in saving the UK’s arts sector will leave Britain a “cultural wasteland”. According to a report by the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport select committee, the Government failed to recognise the nightmare impact of COVID-19 on the arts industry, and said that the bailout came too late. Julian Knight, chairman of the committee said: “We are witnessing the biggest threat to our cultural landscape in a generation. “The failure of the Government to act quickly has jeopardised the future of institutions that are part of our national life and the livelihoods of those who work for them.” 2:55 am update: MEPs threaten to ‘withhold’ EU budget approval after being sidelined Members of European Parliament have declared their intentions to “withhold” consent for the new EU budget after being sidelined from discussions. Parliament President David Sassoli led the MEP revolt, and said the group will withhold consent of the Multiannual Financial Framework unless they get a “satisfactory agreement” on various issues. Problems for the MEPs with the new budget include big cuts to programs, as well as wanting clearer guarantees ensuring countries violating the rule of law won’t receive budget funds. However, a parliament spokesman stressed that the MEPs were “not going to delay the recovery plan”. They added: “It would be unjustifiable and incomprehensible.”
Boris Johnson is set to travel to Scotland ahead of polls showing major support for independence
1:07am update: ‘Unusual’ UK satellite investment scares senior civil servant Sam Beckett, acting permanent secretary within the Department of Business, warned Business Secrtary Alok Sharma against investing into bankrupt satellite company OneWeb. Mr Sharma signed off on a near £400 million rescue deal for the satellite company, which has been touted as giving "strategic geopolitical opportunities”, a few weeks ago. But Mr Beckett warned the business secretary that the investment would be "unusual" and that the "central case is marginal and there are significant downside risks." He added in a letter sent on June 26: “As a standalone high-risk investment with a possibility that the entirety of the investment is lost and no wider benefits accrued, I cannot satisfy myself that this investment meets the requirements of Value for Money," Mr Beckett was replaced as permanent secretary for the department by Sarah Munby on July 17. 12:00am update: Boris Johnson to visit Scotland amid rising independence support Boris Johnson will visit Scotland as calls for independence from the UK grow. Downing Street confirmed that Mr Johnson will meet with business owners and armed forces, but not Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. It comes as support for Scottish independence is polling at 54 percent, which polling expert John Curtice told Politico is “the first time in polling history” that Scottish independence beat out remain support “over such a sustained period”. Dylan Donnelly takes over reporting from Laura O'Callaghan 9.40pm update: UK offers 'emergency' Brexit talks next week The UK will offer the EU an emergency round of Brexit talks next week - and it will lay the blame for a no-deal squarely on the shoulders of Brussels, according to The Daily Telegraph. Formal talks between David Frost and Michel Barnier in London will wrap up on Thursday. Reports suggest neither sides foresees the deadlock being broken this week. A source said: "If an agreement isn't reached this week, it's likely that David Frost will offer more face-to-face talks next week on an informal basis. "Then we would expect there to be more talks in the third week of August." 8.38pm update: Ed Davey says PM's refusal to extend Brexit transition period is 'reckless' Acting leader of the Liberal Democrats, Ed Davey, has said the Government's refusal to extend the Brexit transition period beyond December 31 in a bid to strike a deal is "reckless", given the risk of a second COVID-19 pandemic in winter. Mr Davey tweeted: " The govt is failing to secure a trade deal with the EU & with the US, yet the PM still refuses to extend the transition period even if we face a 2nd covid19 peak this winter. "This is a reckless govt that seems determined to put lives & livelihoods at risk." 7.31pm update: EU exposed: Ursula von der Leyen spends thousands on private jets despite green pledge Top eurocrat Ursula von der Leyen has flown on luxury private jets to nearly half of her international "missions", the latest official travel figures reveal. The European Commission President splashed out tens of thousands of pounds on so-called “air taxis” in her first three months in the job. Since becoming the EU’s most senior official, the former German defence minister has made the creation of a “European green deal” the main aim for her presidency. She pledged to lead a significant overhaul of the economy in order to deliver carbon neutrality across the 27-member bloc by 2050. For the full story click here.
Nigel Farage posted this snap of himself on Twitter promoting Italexit
6.21pm update: David Lammy says PM put career above UK's interests on Brexit Labour MP for Tottenham David Lammy has accused Boris Johnson of putting his own political career ahead of the country's interests. Mr Johnson accused Keir Starmer of "flip-flopping" on Brexit during a heated exchange between the two party leaders at PMQs this afternoon. Mr Lammy tweeted: "Boris Johnson accusing anyone of "flip-flopping" at PMQs is a bad joke. "This Prime Minister is so lacking in principle that he wrote two columns, one pro-Brexit and one anti-Brexit, before deciding to publish the one which was best, not for the country, but his personal career." 5.50pm update: Starmer hits out at PM for 'sitting on' Russia report Labour leader Keir Starmer took aim at Boris Johnson in light of yesterday's release of the Russia report. Mr Starmer said: "Ten months ago the Prime Minister received a report that concluded Russia poses an immediate and urgent threat to our national security. "Boris Johnson had no answer when I asked why he sat on that report for so long." 4.46pm update: Sterling falls amid no-deal Brexit woes The pound fell on Wednesday on growing concern that the Brexit transition period will end without a deal between Britain and the EU, and on the foggy economic prospects for the country as it looks to emerge from its coronavirus lockdown. The fact that the UK will not be part of the bloc's €750 billion recovery package "is not helping the pound," said Kenneth Broux, head of corporate research at Societe Generale. On top of that, euro/sterling may be bouncing off the lows it fell to recently when central banks were possibly rebalancing their reserve requirements, Mr Broux said. Sterling was last trading flat versus the dollar at $1.2736 but versus a broadly stronger euro it was 0.5 percent lower at 90.98 pence. Mr Broux said it was unlikely that euro/sterling was establishing a new range above 90, however, as those levels "typically don't endure a long time". 3.37pm update: Nigel Farage fires Italexit starting gun with new T-shirt – EU on alert Nigel Farage has stoked the fires of euroscepticism once more - by sharing a picture of himself with a freshly laundered Italexit T-shirt on social media, in support of Gianluigi Paragone, the driving force behind a new single-issue party aimed at taking Italy out of the EU.
Brexit Party leader Mr Farage tweeted the snap with a simple one word message: "ITALEXIT."
His tweet attracted plenty of backing, with Hetti Puntin commenting: "Gianluigi Paragone has pushed for this for months now.
"After seeing how the Dutch especially, treated us during the Recovery Fund meeting, I have no other choice but to support it, too." For the full story, click here.
3.11pm update: UK 'remains committed to working hard' towards Brexit deal Significant differences remain in talks on a post-Brexit free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union and the UK will be prepared for "all possible scenarios" when the current arrangements expire at the end of the year, Downing Street said. Talks between the two sides were continuing in London on Wednesday. The Prime Minister's official spokesman said: "Round five negotiations are ongoing and we remain committed to working hard to finding the outlines of a balanced agreement. "We have been clear that discussions throughout this intensified process have continued to be constructive but significant differences still remain on a number of important issues. "Our preference is to leave with an FTA as long as it guarantees our political and economic independence. "But we will make sure that we are prepared for all possibles scenarios." 2.30pm update: UK security minister hits back at Labour MP over Russia report Labour MP for Walthamstow Stella Creasy raised the question of potential Russian interference in the Brexit referendum in 2016. She asked in the House of Commons: "Given that this report sets out that there was Russian interference in other referendums and they continue to be involved in British politics, why does he think the Russians chose to sit that one out?" But the UK's security minister James Brokenshire hit back: "Well again I think that we're certainly hearing some questions to try and re-fight the referendum. "I think actually we should respect that and that's what this Government has done, that's what we've been elected on a mandate to do to deliver on the Brexit referendum." 1.30pm update: SNP calls for inquiry into Brexit and Scottish independence to be fast-tracked SNP defence spokesman Stewart McDonald told the House of Commons: "This is a cow that is going to give us a lot of milk for quite some time and I think it deserves to be taken seriously and objectively. I think the issues it raises in relation to actively looking the other way as to the interference in the Brexit referendum need to be addressed and need to be addressed objectively by both the Government and indeed by the Opposition. "That also applies to what it has to say about the Scottish referendum. I have banged on more about this than any other MP or politician in Scotland, in fact in Scotland my party has a stronger record on this than any other political party. "So let's have the inquiry into Brexit and the 2014 referendum campaign. Let's bring that forward and let's be clear, that is only something that the UK Government can do." But UK security minister James Brokenshire replied: "It is the work of the intelligence and security agencies to assess any new evidence as it emerges and given this long-standing approach, we do not believe it is necessary to hold a specific retrospective inquiry. "If there were evidence available to be found, it would emerge through our existing processes."
Brexit news: Michel Barnier is back in London this week for further trade talks
1pm update: UK did not vote for Brexit because of Russia pressure - Boris Johnson He said during Prime Minister's Questions in a fiery clah with Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer: "Let's be in no doubt what this is really all about. "This is about pressure from the Islingtonian Remainers who have seized on this report to try to give the impression that Russian interference was somehow responsible for Brexit. "That's what this is all about. The people of this country didn't vote to leave the EU because of pressure from Russia or Russian interference, they voted because they wanted to take back control of our money, our trade policy and our laws." Mr Johnson also accused Sir Keir of being unable to "bring himself to accept that". 12.13pm update: Labour MP orders second Brexit referendum because decision to Leave is NOT valid Labour MP Barry Sheerman has called for a second Brexit referendum calling the decision to leave invalid. Following statement negotiations and the recent Russia report into claims the Kremlin meddled with UK elections and referendums, Mr Sheerman has called for a second Brexit vote. Writing on Twitter, Mr Sheerman said: “The decision to leave the European Union can no longer be regarded as valid or legitimate we must now delay our departure & hold a fresh referendum!”
Russia Report: UK ‘hasn’t asked questions’ says Blackford
11.30pm update: Pound plummets as no deal Brexit fears increase The pound has moved quickly away from six-week highs amid concerns the UK and EU will not agree a post-Brexit trade deal before the end of the transition period. Sterling is down 0.6 percent against the US dollar at $1.2653 and has falled 0.5 percent against the euro at 91.04 pence. The British currency had briefly risen above $1.27 for the first time in six weeks on Tuesday. Derek Halpenny, head of research at MUFG, said: "The performance of the pound in recent weeks suggests Brexit risks are starting to play a role." 10.20am update: Government promises new powers to help UK spies tackle hostile states The UK's Government has promised new powers to help Britain's spies "clamp down" on the activity of hostile states, after a damning report on the response to Russian actions targeting the UK. Ministers are considering introducing a law that would require people working on behalf of foreign states to formally register their activities. The Law commission is reviewing the Official Secrets Act, which the Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) branded "out of date" in its report on Russia. The committee warned the Government was slow to recognise the potential threat posed by Russia and did not properly consider whether the country could interfere in the Brexit referendum from 2016 until after the vote took place. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "We want to be able to look at the activities, clamp down on the activities of hostile states which threaten the UK," he told BBC Radio 4's Today. "But no individual power on its own is going to resolve that. It's another tool in the armoury but it's not going to be the only solution. "We do have very broad powers in existence already for our intelligence and security agencies."
Brexit news: Nicola Sturgeon is a huge opponent of the UK's departure from the EU
9.02am update: Brexit POLL: After criticism of Russia report, should Boris hold new investigation into Brexit vote? The publication of a hard-hitting report into Russian influence in the UK has once again focused attention on the 2016 Brexit referendum amid claims Vladimir Putin sought to meddle in UK's decision to quit the EU - so today Express.co.uk are being being asked: Is it time for the Government to launch a fresh probe into the matter? The document, compiled by Parliament's intelligence and security committee, was published yesterday, and claimed the Government failed to establish the extent of Russian effort to interfere in the UK political process four years ago. The report further suggested intelligence services should investigate and make their findings public - but the Government has largely dismissed the claims, with Transport Secretary Grant Shapps suggesting there was simply no proof. 8.50am update: Scotland's no deal PANIC: Anti-Brexit campaign launched to try to tie Edinburgh to bloc A cross-party campaign has been launched to ensure Scotland has a close relationship with the EU after Brexit Britain fully cuts ties with the bloc at the end of the year, as a poll revealed the majority of Scots wished the UK's EU exit was reversed. The eu+me campaign is chaired by former North East Fife MP Stephen Gethins and the campaign's director is the SNP's former head of communications, Fergus Mutch. Mr Mutch said the campaign will be a "grassroots-led force for positive change" at a crucial moment in Scotland's relationship with Europe. The poll, undertaken by Survation revealed that 65 percent of Scots regret the Brexit result while 62 percent of Scots would want to rejoin the EU. Meanwhile, the other 38 percent would opt to stay out of the EU, excluding those who answered: "don't know". More than a third (35.7 percent) of the 1,127 Scots surveyed between June 10th and 16th believe the economic impact of coronavirus would have been reduced if the UK remained in the EU. 8.30am update: 'Serious failure' not to investigate Russian influence during Brexit vote Lord Peter Ricketts, a former national security adviser, has warned it was a "serious failure" not to investigate Russian influence during the Brexit vote. He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "Even after the revelations of the massive Russian attack on the US Democratic Party, which came a month or two after the referendum, the Government of the day didn't ask for a rapid assessment of whether there had been any similar effort to hack and leak documents and try to influence the referendum campaign, and I think that was a serious failure."
Brexit news: The transition period ends on December 31


thedailyexpress--2020-07-23--Brexit LIVE: Remainers bemoan after Boris RULES OUT inquiry into referendum interference

Labour MP for Tottenham David Lammy tweeted : `` Boris Johnson accusing anyone of `` flip-flopping '' at # PMQs is a bad joke .
`` This Prime Minister is so lacking in principle that he wrote two columns , one pro-Brexit and one anti-Brexit , before deciding to publish the one which was best , not for the country , but his personal career . ''
Fellow Labour MP Lisa Nandy said the Prime Minister 's response to the report was `` shameful '' .
She said : `` Serious questions about the gaping holes the Government left in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about Brexit and makes bad jokes about flip flops on Bournemouth Beach .
`` Our security services and armed forces put their lives on the line to keep us safe .
Former Labour spin doctor Alastair Campbell accused Mr Johnson of selling the UK `` for a few tennis matches with Russians '' .
A report from the Intelligence and Security Committee ( ISC ) said the Government had failed to investigate whether Moscow had meddled in the Brexit referendum .
In a fiery clash in the House of Commons with Sir Keir @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Let 's be in no doubt what this is really all about .
This is about pressure from the Islingtonian Remainers who have seized on this report to try to give the impression that Russian interference was somehow responsible for Brexit .
`` That 's what this is all about .
The people of this country did n't vote to leave the European Union because of pressure from Russia or Russian interference , they voted because they wanted to take back control of our money , our trade policy and our laws .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Britain is on the verge of abandoning all hope of agreeing a post-Brexit free trade deal with the EU , with no breakthrough in sight on major sticking points such as fisheries .
Senior UK sources told The Daily Telegraph they are now working on the assumption Britain will revert to World Trade Organisation ( WTO ) terms with the bloc from January 1 , 2021 .
Sam Beckett , acting permanent secretary within the Department of Business , warned Business Secrtary Alok Sharma against investing into bankrupt satellite company OneWeb .
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ million rescue deal for the satellite company , which has been touted as giving `` strategic geopolitical opportunities ” , a few weeks ago .
But Mr Beckett warned the business secretary that the investment would be `` unusual '' and that the `` central case is marginal and there are significant downside risks . ''
He added in a letter sent on June 26 : “ As a standalone high-risk investment with a possibility that the entirety of the investment is lost and no wider benefits accrued , I can not satisfy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Value for Money , '' Mr Beckett was replaced as permanent secretary for the department by Sarah Munby on July 17 .
Boris Johnson will visit Scotland as calls for independence from the UK grow .
Downing Street confirmed that Mr Johnson will meet with business owners and armed forces , but not Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon .
It comes as support for Scottish independence is polling at 54 percent , which polling expert John Curtice told Politico is “ the first time in polling history ” that Scottish independence beat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sustained period ” .
The UK will offer the EU an emergency round of Brexit talks next week - and it will lay the blame for a no-deal squarely on the shoulders of Brussels , according to The Daily Telegraph .
Formal talks between David Frost and Michel Barnier in London will wrap up on Thursday .
Reports suggest neither sides foresees the deadlock being broken this week .
A source said : `` If an agreement is n't reached this week , it 's likely that David Frost will offer more face-to-face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Then we would expect there to be more talks in the third week of August . ''
8.38pm update : Ed Davey says PM 's refusal to extend Brexit transition period is 'reckless ' Acting leader of the Liberal Democrats , Ed Davey , has said the Government 's refusal to extend the Brexit transition period beyond December 31 in a bid to strike a deal is `` reckless '' , given the risk of a second COVID-19 pandemic in winter .
Mr Davey tweeted : `` The govt is failing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU & with the US , yet the PM still refuses to extend the transition period even if we face a 2nd covid19 peak this winter .
`` This is a reckless govt that seems determined to put lives & livelihoods at risk . ''
Top eurocrat Ursula von der Leyen has flown on luxury private jets to nearly half of her international `` missions '' , the latest official travel figures reveal .
The European Commission President splashed out tens of thousands of pounds on so-called “ air taxis ” in her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Since becoming the EU ’ s most senior official , the former German defence minister has made the creation of a “ European green deal ” the main aim for her presidency .
She pledged to lead a significant overhaul of the economy in order to deliver carbon neutrality across the 27-member bloc by 2050 .
For the full story click here .
6.21pm update : David Lammy says PM put career above UK 's interests on Brexit Labour MP for Tottenham David Lammy has accused Boris Johnson of putting his own political @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Mr Johnson accused Keir Starmer of `` flip-flopping '' on Brexit during a heated exchange between the two party leaders at PMQs this afternoon .
Mr Lammy tweeted : `` Boris Johnson accusing anyone of `` flip-flopping '' at PMQs is a bad joke .
`` This Prime Minister is so lacking in principle that he wrote two columns , one pro-Brexit and one anti-Brexit , before deciding to publish the one which was best , not for the country , but his personal career . ''
5.50pm update : Starmer hits @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russia report Labour leader Keir Starmer took aim at Boris Johnson in light of yesterday 's release of the Russia report .
Mr Starmer said : `` Ten months ago the Prime Minister received a report that concluded Russia poses an immediate and urgent threat to our national security .
`` Boris Johnson had no answer when I asked why he sat on that report for so long . ''
The pound fell on Wednesday on growing concern that the Brexit transition period will end without a deal between Britain and the EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the country as it looks to emerge from its coronavirus lockdown .
The fact that the UK will not be part of the bloc 's €750 billion recovery package `` is not helping the pound , '' said Kenneth Broux , head of corporate research at Societe Generale .
On top of that , euro/sterling may be bouncing off the lows it fell to recently when central banks were possibly rebalancing their reserve requirements , Mr Broux said .
Sterling was last trading flat versus the dollar at $ 1.2736 but versus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ percent lower at 90.98 pence .
Mr Broux said it was unlikely that euro/sterling was establishing a new range above 90 , however , as those levels `` typically do n't endure a long time '' .
3.37pm update : Nigel Farage fires Italexit starting gun with new T-shirt – EU on alert Nigel Farage has stoked the fires of euroscepticism once more - by sharing a picture of himself with a freshly laundered Italexit T-shirt on social media , in support of Gianluigi Paragone , the driving force behind a new single-issue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the EU .
Brexit Party leader Mr Farage tweeted the snap with a simple one word message : `` ITALEXIT . ''
His tweet attracted plenty of backing , with Hetti Puntin commenting : `` Gianluigi Paragone has pushed for this for months now .
`` After seeing how the Dutch especially , treated us during the Recovery Fund meeting , I have no other choice but to support it , too . ''
For the full story , click here .
Significant differences remain in talks on a post-Brexit free trade agreement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the UK will be prepared for `` all possible scenarios '' when the current arrangements expire at the end of the year , Downing Street said .
Talks between the two sides were continuing in London on Wednesday .
The Prime Minister 's official spokesman said : `` Round five negotiations are ongoing and we remain committed to working hard to finding the outlines of a balanced agreement .
`` We have been clear that discussions throughout this intensified process have continued to be constructive but significant differences still remain on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ preference is to leave with an FTA as long as it guarantees our political and economic independence .
`` But we will make sure that we are prepared for all possibles scenarios . ''
Labour MP for Walthamstow Stella Creasy raised the question of potential Russian interference in the Brexit referendum in 2016 .
She asked in the House of Commons : `` Given that this report sets out that there was Russian interference in other referendums and they continue to be involved in British politics , why does he think the Russians @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' But the UK 's security minister James Brokenshire hit back : `` Well again I think that we 're certainly hearing some questions to try and re-fight the referendum .
`` I think actually we should respect that and that 's what this Government has done , that 's what we 've been elected on a mandate to do to deliver on the Brexit referendum . ''
1.30pm update : SNP calls for inquiry into Brexit and Scottish independence to be fast-tracked SNP defence spokesman Stewart McDonald told the House of Commons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is going to give us a lot of milk for quite some time and I think it deserves to be taken seriously and objectively .
I think the issues it raises in relation to actively looking the other way as to the interference in the Brexit referendum need to be addressed and need to be addressed objectively by both the Government and indeed by the Opposition .
`` That also applies to what it has to say about the Scottish referendum .
I have banged on more about this than any other MP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Scotland my party has a stronger record on this than any other political party .
`` So let 's have the inquiry into Brexit and the 2014 referendum campaign .
Let 's bring that forward and let 's be clear , that is only something that the UK Government can do . ''
But UK security minister James Brokenshire replied : `` It is the work of the intelligence and security agencies to assess any new evidence as it emerges and given this long-standing approach , we do not believe it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` If there were evidence available to be found , it would emerge through our existing processes . ''
1pm update : UK did not vote for Brexit because of Russia pressure - Boris Johnson He said during Prime Minister 's Questions in a fiery clah with Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer : `` Let 's be in no doubt what this is really all about .
`` This is about pressure from the Islingtonian Remainers who have seized on this report to try to give the impression that Russian interference @ @ @ @ @ @ @ That 's what this is all about .
The people of this country did n't vote to leave the EU because of pressure from Russia or Russian interference , they voted because they wanted to take back control of our money , our trade policy and our laws . ''
Mr Johnson also accused Sir Keir of being unable to `` bring himself to accept that '' .
12.13pm update : Labour MP orders second Brexit referendum because decision to Leave is NOT valid Labour MP Barry Sheerman has called for a second @ @ @ @ @ @ @ invalid .
Following statement negotiations and the recent Russia report into claims the Kremlin meddled with UK elections and referendums , Mr Sheerman has called for a second Brexit vote .
Writing on Twitter , Mr Sheerman said : “ The decision to leave the European Union can no longer be regarded as valid or legitimate we must now delay our departure & hold a fresh referendum !
” The pound has moved quickly away from six-week highs amid concerns the UK and EU will not agree a post-Brexit trade deal before the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is down 0.6 percent against the US dollar at $ 1.2653 and has falled 0.5 percent against the euro at 91.04 pence .
The British currency had briefly risen above $ 1.27 for the first time in six weeks on Tuesday .
Derek Halpenny , head of research at MUFG , said : `` The performance of the pound in recent weeks suggests Brexit risks are starting to play a role . ''
10.20am update : Government promises new powers to help UK spies tackle hostile states The UK 's Government has promised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` clamp down '' on the activity of hostile states , after a damning report on the response to Russian actions targeting the UK .
Ministers are considering introducing a law that would require people working on behalf of foreign states to formally register their activities .
The Law commission is reviewing the Official Secrets Act , which the Intelligence and Security Committee ( ISC ) branded `` out of date '' in its report on Russia .
The committee warned the Government was slow to recognise the potential threat posed by Russia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country could interfere in the Brexit referendum from 2016 until after the vote took place .
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme : `` We want to be able to look at the activities , clamp down on the activities of hostile states which threaten the UK , '' he told BBC Radio 4 's Today .
`` But no individual power on its own is going to resolve that .
It 's another tool in the armoury but it 's not going to be the only solution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ powers in existence already for our intelligence and security agencies . ''
9.02am update : Brexit POLL : After criticism of Russia report , should Boris hold new investigation into Brexit vote ?
The publication of a hard-hitting report into Russian influence in the UK has once again focused attention on the 2016 Brexit referendum amid claims Vladimir Putin sought to meddle in UK 's decision to quit the EU - so today Express.co.uk are being being asked : Is it time for the Government to launch a fresh probe into the matter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's intelligence and security committee , was published yesterday , and claimed the Government failed to establish the extent of Russian effort to interfere in the UK political process four years ago .
The report further suggested intelligence services should investigate and make their findings public - but the Government has largely dismissed the claims , with Transport Secretary Grant Shapps suggesting there was simply no proof .
8.50am update : Scotland 's no deal PANIC : Anti-Brexit campaign launched to try to tie Edinburgh to bloc A cross-party campaign has been launched @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the EU after Brexit Britain fully cuts ties with the bloc at the end of the year , as a poll revealed the majority of Scots wished the UK 's EU exit was reversed .
The eu+me campaign is chaired by former North East Fife MP Stephen Gethins and the campaign 's director is the SNP 's former head of communications , Fergus Mutch .
Mr Mutch said the campaign will be a `` grassroots-led force for positive change '' at a crucial moment in Scotland 's relationship with Europe .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 65 percent of Scots regret the Brexit result while 62 percent of Scots would want to rejoin the EU .
Meanwhile , the other 38 percent would opt to stay out of the EU , excluding those who answered : `` do n't know '' .
More than a third ( 35.7 percent ) of the 1,127 Scots surveyed between June 10th and 16th believe the economic impact of coronavirus would have been reduced if the UK remained in the EU .
8.30am update : 'Serious failure ' not to investigate Russian influence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a former national security adviser , has warned it was a `` serious failure '' not to investigate Russian influence during the Brexit vote .
He told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme : `` Even after the revelations of the massive Russian attack on the US Democratic Party , which came a month or two after the referendum , the Government of the day did n't ask for a rapid assessment of whether there had been any similar effort to hack and leak documents and try to influence the referendum campaign , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ failure . ''
8.20am update : No evidence of Russian meddling in Brexit vote - Grant Shapps There is no evidence of Russian interference in the Brexit referendum from 2016 and Britain 's spied did not take their eyes off the ball on Russia , Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has insisted .
On Tuesday , the parliament 's Intelligence and Security Committee said in a published report there were open source indications that Russia had sought to influence the Brexit campaign but no hard evidence had been produced .
When appearing on Sky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked if there should be a further investigation of possible Russian meddling in the European Union referendum .
He replied : `` There needs to be some evidence that there 's an issue there - which there is n't .
`` I do n't think its the case that the intelligence services took their eye off the ball , '' 8am update : Brexit talks on the brink of COLLAPSE as UK close to abandoning hope of EU trade deal Britain is close to abandoning all hope of striking a free trade deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reports .
Senior sources in the Government have told The Daily Telegraph it is now the working assumption the UK will trade with the bloc on WTO terms after December 31 .
Sources said they assume `` there wo n't be a deal '' but added that it remains possible that a `` basic '' agreement could be thrashed out over the coming weeks or months .
Businesses across the UK have already been told to ready themselves for a hard exit from the bloc .
The Daily Telegraph quoted a senior Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ team - led by David Frost - is not willing to compromise on key issues such as access to fishing waters .
The source said : `` The Government has been making it clear for a while that it is prepared for no deal .
`` Britain is n't going to budge on fundamentals like fishing rights , so it 's all in the hands of the EU . ''