thedailyexpress--2020-01-26--John Bercow mocked over peerage snub by former Irish diplomat - ‘Can’t have it both ways!'

In a statement issued last week , Mr Bercow - now at the centre of further controversy after former House of Commons clerk Lord Lisvane lodged a complaint against him in relation to alleged bullying - said the Government was going against the `` centuries-old convention that a departing speaker is promptly elevated to the House of Lords '' .
However , Ray Bassett , the former Irish ambassador to Canada , Jamaica and the Bahamas , said his claims did not wash , making his feelings plain in a pair of tweets in which he described Mr Bercow 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bassett , who is also a senior research fellow at the London-based Policy Exchange think tank , subsequently told Express.co.uk : `` I believe John Bercow ignored convention in Parliament to help thwart Brexit when it suited him but then cried foul when convention was not followed in his desire for a seat in the House of Lords .
`` He ca n't have it both ways .
It is hypocritical . ''
Mr Bercow 's behaviour in his final months as Speaker prompted criticism from Brexiteers who claimed he was trying to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of the European Union with many of his rulings .
Mr Bassett added : `` His utterances on Brexit since he stepped down as Speaker have clearly shown that he was never an impartial Chair but a partisan figure , which is totally at odds with the conventional role of the Speaker . ''
Jeremy Corbyn is believed to be ready to nominate Mr Bercow as a peer , with Labour refusing to deny the claims , a move which constitutional expert Professor Vernon Bogdanor previously told Express.co.uk would itself be a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ require former Tory MP Mr Bercow to join its rival party .
Mr Bassett agreed , saying : `` The decision of Labour to nominate John Bercow for the Lords again demonstrates that he was viewed by the Opposition as ‘ their ’ man .
READ MORE : ‘ Cocktail hour on the Titanic ’ Germany SCARED of Brexit Britain Mr Bassett 's remarks were echoed by Sammy Wilson , the DUP 's Brexit spokesman , in a blog written for the Politeia think tank entitled All Change in Northern Ireland ?
.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ poisonous influence of the most divisive and partisan speaker ever to preside over proceedings '' .
In respect of Lord Lisvane 's claims , Mr Bercow said in his statement : `` I have seen in the media that Lord Lisvane is formally complaining that I bullied staff .
“ For the record , I categorically deny that I have ever bullied anyone , anywhere at any time . ''
Lord Lisvane , who worked alongside Mr Bercow for five years , had `` ample opportunity to raise any concerns about such conduct @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He added : “ Therefore , he had not merely a right but a responsibility to act if he thought that he witnessed misconduct .

John Bercow could be stripped of Lords seat warns Leadsom
In a statement issued last week, Mr Bercow - now at the centre of further controversy after former House of Commons clerk Lord Lisvane lodged a complaint against him in relation to alleged bullying - said the Government was going against the "centuries-old convention that a departing speaker is promptly elevated to the House of Lords". However, Ray Bassett, the former Irish ambassador to Canada, Jamaica and the Bahamas, said his claims did not wash, making his feelings plain in a pair of tweets in which he described Mr Bercow's behaviour as "hilarious".
He can't have it both ways. It is hypocritical Ray Bassett
Mr Bassett, who is also a senior research fellow at the London-based Policy Exchange think tank, subsequently told Express.co.uk: "I believe John Bercow ignored convention in Parliament to help thwart Brexit when it suited him but then cried foul when convention was not followed in his desire for a seat in the House of Lords. "He can't have it both ways. It is hypocritical." Mr Bercow's behaviour in his final months as Speaker prompted criticism from Brexiteers who claimed he was trying to thwart the process of taking the UK out of the European Union with many of his rulings.
John Bercow has been mocked by former Irish diplomat Ray Bassett
Mr Bassett added: "His utterances on Brexit since he stepped down as Speaker have clearly shown that he was never an impartial Chair but a partisan figure, which is totally at odds with the conventional role of the Speaker." Jeremy Corbyn is believed to be ready to nominate Mr Bercow as a peer, with Labour refusing to deny the claims, a move which constitutional expert Professor Vernon Bogdanor previously told Express.co.uk would itself be a significant breach of convention, and might require former Tory MP Mr Bercow to join its rival party. Mr Bassett agreed, saying: "The decision of Labour to nominate John Bercow for the Lords again demonstrates that he was viewed by the Opposition as ‘their’ man. READ MORE: ‘Cocktail hour on the Titanic’ Germany SCARED of Brexit Britain
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John Bercow's unorthodox style as Speaker of the House of Commons drew criticism
Mr Bassett's remarks were echoed by Sammy Wilson, the DUP's Brexit spokesman, in a blog written for the Politeia think tank entitled All Change in Northern Ireland?. In this, he lamented "the poisonous influence of the most divisive and partisan speaker ever to preside over proceedings". In respect of Lord Lisvane's claims, Mr Bercow said in his statement: "I have seen in the media that Lord Lisvane is formally complaining that I bullied staff.
John Bercow is furious at being snubbed for a peerage in the House of Lords
“For the record, I categorically deny that I have ever bullied anyone, anywhere at any time." Lord Lisvane, who worked alongside Mr Bercow for five years, had "ample opportunity to raise any concerns about such conduct with me”, Mr Bercow suggested. He added: “Therefore, he had not merely a right but a responsibility to act if he thought that he witnessed misconduct.
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thedailyexpress--2020-01-26--Sturgeon shamed: SNP slated for risking ‘economic catastrophe’ for Scottish independence

The SNP and Scotland ’ s First Minister are campaigning for a second referendum on Scottish independence - more than five years after the country voted 55 percent to 45 percent in favour of remaining in Britain .
Nicola Sturgeon has argued the SNP ’ s gains at last month ’ s general election mean it now has a mandate to hold Indyref2 this year , but Boris Johnson has highlighted how the SNP had promised the referendum had been a “ once-in-a-generation event ” .
In the letter to Ms Sturgeon , the Prime Minister said the UK Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decision of the Scottish people and the promise that you made to them ” .
He added “ for that reason , I can not agree to any request for a transfer of power that would lead to further independence referendums ” .
Ms Sturgeon who accused the Conservative Party of “ trying to block democracy ” and continued to insist : “ Scotland will have the right to choose.
” But political and economic experts have warned the SNP an independent Scotland could blow a huge hole in its already fragile economy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a massive bill for taxpayers .
Dr Steve McCabe , associate professor and senior fellow at the Centre for Brexit Studies at Birmingham City University , told Express.co.uk : “ Scottish independence would be economically catastrophic , because Scotland ’ s economy has grown more slowly in recent years than the rest of the UK .
“ The Scottish Government has experienced a shortfall in funding of some £200million , and they are being expected to manage a reduction in funding from this year onward to deal with the shortfall.
” According to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on December 13 , public spending per person on Scotland is £11,2742 - a massive 17 percent above the UK average .
Eliot Wilson , a former clerk at the House of Commons Scottish Affairs Committee , warned taxpayers would have to foot a huge bill for Scottish independence , along with the risk of huge unemployment .
He told this website : “ Businesses might relocate ; unemployment could rise ; there might be inflation ; some sectors ( like shipbuilding ) could contract .
READ MORE : How Jacob Rees-Mogg dubbed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scotland operates a much larger deficit in percentage terms than the rest of the UK , so there is a bill to be paid in an independent Scotland .
“ The SNP has yet to convince experts that they can square the circle , and Unionists can use concern over higher taxation to scare people into supporting the status quo.
” Mr Wilson added : “ The employment rate in Scotland is lower than in England , and the proportion of those not in work is accordingly higher , so clearly that would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ economic depression .
“ Those industries which are booming in Scotland , such as financial services , would not necessarily remain buoyant in an independent Scotland ; some of the big banks and financial services companies could relatively easily relocate to England or to the EU .
So there is a risk of higher unemployment.
” David Duguid , the Scottish Conservative MP for Banff and Buchan , warned Scotland would have to immediately address a deficit seven times the size of the UK ’ s deficit and more than double expected from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ close the gap , the SNP would be forced into massive public spending cuts and huge tax rises , warning it would be “ devastating for public services and taxpayers in Scotland ” .
The MP explained : “ On day one of independence , Scotland would have to address a deficit – the difference between what is the government spends and the revenue it collects from taxes – of £12.6billion or seven percent of GDP .
“ That is seven times the size of the UK deficit and more than double the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ member states .
“ Closing that gap would require huge public spending cuts or major tax rises in the early years of an independent Scotland .
“ Breaking up the UK could be devastating for public services and taxpayers in Scotland because the sums simply don ’ t add up.
” David Phillips , associate director at the Instate for Fiscal Studies , also warned the huge Government deficit would immediately pose a huge problem , with the SNP also needing to introduce huge spending cuts and tax rises .
He said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public spending ( about 14 percent more per person than the average for the UK as a whole ) , but don ’ t pay more tax .
“ Scotland does not need to borrow to address this large gap between spending and revenues - it is the responsibility of the UK government , but if Scotland become independent it would become responsible for funding its own deficit .
“ Running such a deficit would not be sustainable on an ongoing basis , especially for a small and newly independent country .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of spending restraint and tax rises - unless policies to quickly grow the economy ( to boost revenues ) could be found , which is easier said than done.
” Professor Philip Booth , Senior Academic Fellow at the Institute of Economic Affairs , warned even raising taxes might not be enough to close the deficit , with a huge risk to public sector jobs .
He said : “ Spending in an independent Scotland can not easily be funded by higher taxes .
Taxes would have to rise by 25 percent .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ would have to be huge public sector redundancies .
“ However , in the long run , reform of the economy could turn Scotland into a vibrant , low tax economy with thriving employment , but this requires the right policy decisions to be taken after independence . ''

Boris Johnson slams Sturgeon's Indyref2 calls with ‘biology’ joke
The SNP and Scotland’s First Minister are campaigning for a second referendum on Scottish independence - more than five years after the country voted 55 percent to 45 percent in favour of remaining in Britain. Nicola Sturgeon has argued the SNP’s gains at last month’s general election mean it now has a mandate to hold Indyref2 this year, but Boris Johnson has highlighted how the SNP had promised the referendum had been a “once-in-a-generation event”. In the letter to Ms Sturgeon, the Prime Minister said the UK Government “will continue to uphold the democratic decision of the Scottish people and the promise that you made to them”.
He added “for that reason, I cannot agree to any request for a transfer of power that would lead to further independence referendums”. Ms Sturgeon who accused the Conservative Party of “trying to block democracy” and continued to insist: “Scotland will have the right to choose.” But political and economic experts have warned the SNP an independent Scotland could blow a huge hole in its already fragile economy, leading to huge jobs losses and a massive bill for taxpayers. Dr Steve McCabe, associate professor and senior fellow at the Centre for Brexit Studies at Birmingham City University, told Express.co.uk: “Scottish independence would be economically catastrophic, because Scotland’s economy has grown more slowly in recent years than the rest of the UK.
Scottish independence: Nicola Sturgeon has been warned of an 'economic catastrophe'
Scottish independence: Scotland's First Minister has continued to demand the powers for a second referendum
“The Scottish Government has experienced a shortfall in funding of some £200million, and they are being expected to manage a reduction in funding from this year onward to deal with the shortfall.” According to the House of Commons Library information published on December 13, public spending per person on Scotland is £11,2742 - a massive 17 percent above the UK average. Eliot Wilson, a former clerk at the House of Commons Scottish Affairs Committee, warned taxpayers would have to foot a huge bill for Scottish independence, along with the risk of huge unemployment. He told this website: “Businesses might relocate; unemployment could rise; there might be inflation; some sectors (like shipbuilding) could contract. READ MORE: How Jacob Rees-Mogg dubbed UK's favouritism to Scotland 'absurd'
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Scottish independence: Nicola Sturgeon has been warned of huge jobs losses and a massive taxpayer bill
“Scotland operates a much larger deficit in percentage terms than the rest of the UK, so there is a bill to be paid in an independent Scotland. “The SNP has yet to convince experts that they can square the circle, and Unionists can use concern over higher taxation to scare people into supporting the status quo.” Mr Wilson added: “The employment rate in Scotland is lower than in England, and the proportion of those not in work is accordingly higher, so clearly that would be exacerbated by any fiscal crisis or economic depression. “Those industries which are booming in Scotland, such as financial services, would not necessarily remain buoyant in an independent Scotland; some of the big banks and financial services companies could relatively easily relocate to England or to the EU. So there is a risk of higher unemployment.” DON'T MISS
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David Duguid, the Scottish Conservative MP for Banff and Buchan, warned Scotland would have to immediately address a deficit seven times the size of the UK’s deficit and more than double expected from the EU. He also warned to close the gap, the SNP would be forced into massive public spending cuts and huge tax rises, warning it would be “devastating for public services and taxpayers in Scotland”. The MP explained: “On day one of independence, Scotland would have to address a deficit – the difference between what is the government spends and the revenue it collects from taxes – of £12.6billion or seven percent of GDP. “That is seven times the size of the UK deficit and more than double the level that the EU expects of its member states. “Closing that gap would require huge public spending cuts or major tax rises in the early years of an independent Scotland.
Scottish independence: Scotland is largely divided over the matter
“Breaking up the UK could be devastating for public services and taxpayers in Scotland because the sums simply don’t add up.” David Phillips, associate director at the Instate for Fiscal Studies, also warned the huge Government deficit would immediately pose a huge problem, with the SNP also needing to introduce huge spending cuts and tax rises. He said: “Scots enjoy relatively high levels of public spending (about 14 percent more per person than the average for the UK as a whole), but don’t pay more tax. “Scotland does not need to borrow to address this large gap between spending and revenues - it is the responsibility of the UK government, but if Scotland become independent it would become responsible for funding its own deficit. “Running such a deficit would not be sustainable on an ongoing basis, especially for a small and newly independent country.
Scottish independence: Nicola Sturgeon has been warned over a possible huge Government deficit
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thedailyexpress--2020-01-26--Carrie Symonds’ influence on Boris Johnson to be probed in court over badger cull

Miss Symonds is an animal rights advocate and a patron of the Conservative Animal Welfare Foundation and along with Lord Goldsmith has been a staunch critic of the cull .
Environment Secretary Theresa Villiers ordered Natural England to scrap the cull in Derbyshire , where badgers are being vaccinated against tuberculosis .
The Guardian report this was just three weeks after Miss Symonds was briefed by Badger Trust chief Dominic Dyer .
Stuart Roberts , vice-President of the NFU farmers union , said : “ We think that what the secretary of state did is unlawful , and that is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ challenge .
“ Alongside the Derbyshire farmers , we ’ re asking the court to rule that the direction issued to Natural England should be overturned .
“ It ’ s come to light that before the secretary of state made her decision , her expert veterinary and scientific advisers told her that a licence should be issued to the Derbyshire area , to prevent the spread of bovine TB.
” Mr Roberts added : “ It remains our view that any policy decisions must be based on science and evidence.
” The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be able to examine the basis the Government had for pulling the cull .
Ms Villiers confirmed : “ Certainly we engaged with No 10 on the decision on Derbyshire , yes.
” She said she was given no specific “ direction ” but a “ conversation had taken place ” .
Mr Dyer defended Miss Symonds ’ role telling The Observer : “ I relayed my concerns to the Prime Minister in an open letter on the need to stop the badger cull in Derbyshire and other counties and I am @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this reached him in Downing Street .
“ It is completely legitimate for the Badger Trust or any other organisation opposing the badger cull policy to seek to engage with the Prime Minister in this way , particularly on such a hugely controversial , costly and cruel policy.
” There is speculation that Lord Goldsmith , Environment Minister , could be promoted to replace Ms Villiers as Environment Secretary .
A Department for Environment , Food and Rural Affairs ( Defra ) spokeswoman : “ We have been notified about this legal challenge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ judicial proceedings .
“ Bovine TB remains one of the greatest animal health threats to the UK , and the decision to pause the cull programme in Derbyshire will let us look at how the cull and existing vaccination projects in that area have worked together.
” DO N'T MISS Boris Johnson and Carrie Symonds made Queen ‘ uncomfortable ’ ( LATEST ) Boris Johnson TOO BUSY to celebrate suggests Stanley Johnson ( NEWS ) Carrie Symonds : How Number 10 ’ s First Lady is key player behind throne ( ANALYSIS ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ previously said on the union website : “ When talking about the badger culls it is important to set them in the context of the size and scale of the problem of bovine TB – the disease the culls are designed to help tackle .
“ Last year nearly 33,000 cattle were slaughtered across Great Britain because of bovine TB .
More than 4,700 herds that had previously been clear of the disease were affected by it .
It is an infectious disease for which there is no cure .
“ According to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bovine TB breakout on a farm costs , on average , £34,000 , with roughly £20,000 of that cost borne by the Government and £14,000 borne by the farmer through the loss of animals , the on-farm costs of testing and the disruption caused to businesses because of the movement restriction imposed following a positive test .
”

Boris Johnson: Sister Rachel refuses to discuss Carrie Symonds
Miss Symonds is an animal rights advocate and a patron of the Conservative Animal Welfare Foundation and along with Lord Goldsmith has been a staunch critic of the cull. Environment Secretary Theresa Villiers ordered Natural England to scrap the cull in Derbyshire, where badgers are being vaccinated against tuberculosis. The Guardian report this was just three weeks after Miss Symonds was briefed by Badger Trust chief Dominic Dyer.
Stuart Roberts, vice-President of the NFU farmers union, said: “We think that what the secretary of state did is unlawful, and that is why we’re launching this legal challenge. “Alongside the Derbyshire farmers, we’re asking the court to rule that the direction issued to Natural England should be overturned. “It’s come to light that before the secretary of state made her decision, her expert veterinary and scientific advisers told her that a licence should be issued to the Derbyshire area, to prevent the spread of bovine TB.” Mr Roberts added: “It remains our view that any policy decisions must be based on science and evidence.”
Carrie Symonds' influence on Boris Johnson is set to be probed in court
It comes following the Government's decision to pull a badger cull
The High Court have ruled the NFU lawyers will be able to examine the basis the Government had for pulling the cull. Ms Villiers confirmed: “Certainly we engaged with No 10 on the decision on Derbyshire, yes.” She said she was given no specific “direction” but a “conversation had taken place”. Mr Dyer defended Miss Symonds’ role telling The Observer: “I relayed my concerns to the Prime Minister in an open letter on the need to stop the badger cull in Derbyshire and other counties and I am pleased to see that Carrie made sure this reached him in Downing Street. READ MORE: Boris Johnson and Carrie save taxpayers thousands flying economy
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Lord Goldsmith could replace Theresa Villiers as Environment Secretary according to reports
Minette Batters is the NFU President
The High Court has allowed the launch of judicial review
Minette Batters, NFU President, has previously said on the union website: “When talking about the badger culls it is important to set them in the context of the size and scale of the problem of bovine TB – the disease the culls are designed to help tackle. “Last year nearly 33,000 cattle were slaughtered across Great Britain because of bovine TB. More than 4,700 herds that had previously been clear of the disease were affected by it. It is an infectious disease for which there is no cure. “According to Defra figures it is estimated that a bovine TB breakout on a farm costs, on average, £34,000, with roughly £20,000 of that cost borne by the Government and £14,000 borne by the farmer through the loss of animals, the on-farm costs of testing and the disruption caused to businesses because of the movement restriction imposed following a positive test.”
List of British Prime Ministers
Lord Goldsmith lost his Richmond Park seat in the Commons to Liberal Democrat Sarah Olney last month. He was promptly elevated to the House of Lords. Miss Symonds has been in a relationship with Mr Johnson since 2018. Mr Johnson is separated from his second wife Marina Wheeler.
Boris Johnson's father is an animal rights activist
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thedailyexpress--2020-01-26--Brussels chief begs divided EU to compromise in budget row as bloc faces ‘serious problem'

On Friday evening the Belgian leader called an emergency meeting between fellow leaders of member states to decide on the bloc 's budget for the next seven years .
The extremely divisive issue has split the 27 countries due to ardent bickering over nations ’ priorities and Brexit .
He said in the letter : “ The time has come to reach an agreement at our level on the Multiannual Financial Framework.
” Brexit explained : Will I need a visa to travel to Europe after Brexit ?
This is a reference to the 2021-2027 joint budget .
He pleaded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ practical and political problems and jeopardise the continuation of current programs and policies as well as the launch of new ones .
`` I am fully aware that these negotiations are among the most difficult ones we have to face .
But I am also convinced that with common sense and determination we can strike a deal that will benefit all Europeans .
`` To achieve this , all sides will need to demonstrate a spirit of compromise .
I count on your support in this respect .
`` In the coming days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an overall proposal in view of the February meeting , which will be prepared in the usual fashion . ''
Britain 's withdrawal from the EU means there will be less cash to go around at the same time as the European Commission under new leader Ursula von der Leyen wants funding for tackling climate change and migration .

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On Friday evening the Belgian leader called an emergency meeting between fellow leaders of member states to decide on the bloc's budget for the next seven years. The extremely divisive issue has split the 27 countries due to ardent bickering over nations’ priorities and Brexit. He said in the letter: “The time has come to reach an agreement at our level on the Multiannual Financial Framework.”
This is a reference to the 2021-2027 joint budget. He pleaded: “Any postponement would create serious practical and political problems and jeopardise the continuation of current programs and policies as well as the launch of new ones. "I am fully aware that these negotiations are among the most difficult ones we have to face. But I am also convinced that with common sense and determination we can strike a deal that will benefit all Europeans. "To achieve this, all sides will need to demonstrate a spirit of compromise. I count on your support in this respect. "In the coming days I will consult with you before tabling an overall proposal in view of the February meeting, which will be prepared in the usual fashion." Britain's withdrawal from the EU means there will be less cash to go around at the same time as the European Commission under new leader Ursula von der Leyen wants funding for tackling climate change and migration.
Charles Michel has penned a desperate letter to a divided EU
On Friday evening the Belgian leader called an emergency meeting
While the EU executive has proposed a budget of 1.11 percent of the gross national income of the 27 member states, the European Parliament is aiming for 1.3 percent, while some countries are pushing for no more than 1 percent. It comes as civil war broke out last week over the matter of the budget when remaining member states were told to dig deep to cover Brexit Britain’s £39billion black hole after January 31. Brexit has been the overriding topic of debate among the EU for the past three years, and many nations, particularly the French, are keen to put the matter behind them so that the EU can move on. But before that can happen, the EU27 will need to agree their next long-term EU budget, which won’t be an easy task as many EU states are reluctant to foot the bill. READ NOW: Furious SNP heckle Rees-Mogg as Brexiteer ridicules party's MEP plea [NEWS]
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Brexit will leave a 12 percent gap in EU funding
French minister Amélie de Montchalin has warned capitals need to be prepared to pay more in order to cover the gap left by Britain’s departure from the bloc. France’s state secretary for EU affairs told Politico she expects the EU27 to agree on the bloc’s long term budget by the spring. Ms de Montchalin said: “For me the key to the agreement is own resources. She urged capitals to agree that the EU budget “is the sum of national contributions — which are legitimate to be capped for some countries — plus new resources that are levied on people and companies which benefit from the internal market but do not pay taxes yet.” DON'T MISS:
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Ursula von der Leyen wants funding for tackling climate change and migration
She cited new duties, or taxes, levied at the EU’s external borders for “big polluters, importers of plastic that is not recycled” as well as importers of CO2-heavy products. The UK is currently the third biggest contribution to the EU budget, forking out just under 12 percent of the total bill in 2018. Germany’s share was the largest, contributing 20.78 percent, followed by France on 15.58 percent, according to Statistica. The long term budget, that will determine spending from 2021-27, has been a sticking point for several months.
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thedailyexpress--2020-01-26--Britain is changing but we CANNOT abandon our towns, says ANDREA JENKYNS

Back then , unless you were a Labour candidate pushed by trade unions , the working class struggled to find representation in Parliament , particularly in the Conservative Party .
Margaret Thatcher started a revolution for me and many of my colleagues , practising what she preached .
In a speech at a Young Conservative Conference in 1975 , she said : “ I believe we should judge people on merit and not on background .
I believe the person who is prepared to work hardest should get the greatest rewards and keep them after tax ” .
This was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who went on to launch his own business , taught me since I was a child .
He said : “ It doesn ’ t matter where you come from in life , it what you do in life that matters .
Reach for the stars ” .
From that bakery , I continued to work in retail , getting up the social ladder to management level .
The same sector that once thrived in what Napoleon called our “ nation of shopkeepers ” is now struggling , threatened by colossal competitors online @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unable to keep the pace with a changing consuming habit .
The high streets of our towns are becoming a collection of charity shops , betting agencies , extortionately-priced parking , chains and fast food .
These were once market towns , where every week , traders from the countryside all around would come to sell their goods in testimony to good capitalism .
A time when children didn ’ t get all they wanted , but they got pocket money for doing their bed , so they could understand the value of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ physical money to be exchanged for goods – usually sugary ones at the nearby corner shop .
These times and their economic dynamic will not come back , but the ethic pillars and values that our past has laid at the foundation of our nation , are still the same .
Last year , I launched my campaign “ Towns of the Future ” , supported by the Minister of the Local Growth with the aim to cut business rates , to introduce attractive features to the high street and keep the roads @ @ @ @ @ @ @ consumers , and I hope that the Government will consider these ideas .
Blue Collar Conservatives have to fight to make sure that social mobility is working effectively .
That regardless of your background , your skin colour , religion or gender , hard work pays off .
That those who risk all they have to start a business are not strangled by red tape .
A Conservative Government for the working class , like the one who just smashed Labour ’ s red wall , must level up the geographical inequalities in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t be dormitories for commuters who work in the nearest city , with no services and no opportunities .
Our young talents shouldn ’ t have to move to London , Manchester or Birmingham to find their dream job .
In the age of 5G , it should be possible to grant equal opportunities to everyone around the country , boosting our infrastructures to reach every corner of Great Britain .
During the recent election campaign , many of my constituents working in factories or former miners , even trade unionists , voted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lives .
They did it in part for Boris ’ charisma , in part for Corbyn ’ s lack of appeal .
But , most of all , they did it because they recognised that only the Conservatives can bring real change in this country .
Because they have seen Labour MPs in the north taking working-class votes for granted , pursuing ideas that were often unattractive or too promising to be true , being unable to recognise that patriotism has nothing to do with bigotry .
The same old “ My parents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve voted Labour all my life , this time I can ’ t do it.
” These people lent us their votes , we can ’ t betray them , and we have to deliver the real change they asked for .
A change made of investments in their areas , of job opportunities that enable them to fulfil their dreams , of houses accessible to first-time buyers , of a caring NHS free for all and near their homes .
This election has demonstrated that the working class can be conservative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ promises .
It is up to us to make Blue-Collar conservatism the norm and not the exception .

Andrea Jenkyns says 'this will be a Brexit election'
Back then, unless you were a Labour candidate pushed by trade unions, the working class struggled to find representation in Parliament, particularly in the Conservative Party. Margaret Thatcher started a revolution for me and many of my colleagues, practising what she preached. In a speech at a Young Conservative Conference in 1975, she said: “I believe we should judge people on merit and not on background. I believe the person who is prepared to work hardest should get the greatest rewards and keep them after tax”.
This was what my dad, a lorry driver who went on to launch his own business, taught me since I was a child. He said: “It doesn’t matter where you come from in life, it what you do in life that matters. Reach for the stars”. From that bakery, I continued to work in retail, getting up the social ladder to management level. The same sector that once thrived in what Napoleon called our “nation of shopkeepers” is now struggling, threatened by colossal competitors online, chocked by oppressive business rates, unable to keep the pace with a changing consuming habit. The high streets of our towns are becoming a collection of charity shops, betting agencies, extortionately-priced parking, chains and fast food. These were once market towns, where every week, traders from the countryside all around would come to sell their goods in testimony to good capitalism. A time when children didn’t get all they wanted, but they got pocket money for doing their bed, so they could understand the value of work and be rewarded with real, physical money to be exchanged for goods – usually sugary ones at the nearby corner shop.
Andrea Jenkyns, MP for Morley and Outwood
These times and their economic dynamic will not come back, but the ethic pillars and values that our past has laid at the foundation of our nation, are still the same. Last year, I launched my campaign “Towns of the Future”, supported by the Minister of the Local Growth with the aim to cut business rates, to introduce attractive features to the high street and keep the roads safe and to guarantee free parking for consumers, and I hope that the Government will consider these ideas. Blue Collar Conservatives have to fight to make sure that social mobility is working effectively. That regardless of your background, your skin colour, religion or gender, hard work pays off. That those who risk all they have to start a business are not strangled by red tape. A Conservative Government for the working class, like the one who just smashed Labour’s red wall, must level up the geographical inequalities in our country. Our towns can’t be dormitories for commuters who work in the nearest city, with no services and no opportunities. Our young talents shouldn’t have to move to London, Manchester or Birmingham to find their dream job. In the age of 5G, it should be possible to grant equal opportunities to everyone around the country, boosting our infrastructures to reach every corner of Great Britain.
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Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn


thedailyexpress--2020-01-27--Union boss tells Labour moderates to quit if they object to Corbynista winning leader race

Mr McCluskey , whose union is Labour ’ s biggest donor , said it was “ disgraceful ” that centrists objected to the shadow business secretary taking over at the top .
“ Now if people haven ’ t learnt that the British electorate do not like a divided party and want to continue the divisions after this leadership election , then frankly they would be better to clear out now rather than mess us about , ” he told BBC Radio 5 Live .
He said “ good riddance ” to those who would rather quit than serve under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Appearing on the BBC ’ s Andrew Marr Show , Mr McCluskey acknowledged Labour ’ s response to anti-Semitism allegations could have been better .
“ I ’ m absolutely convinced that there were those individuals who opposed Jeremy Corbyn ’ s election right from the beginning , used the anti-Semitism issue – which I think is quite despicable that they did this on such an important subject – to undermine Corbyn , there ’ s no doubt about that.
” Ms Long-Bailey and rivals Lisa Nandy and Emily Thornberry continued their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Nottingham .
Ms Thornberry pleaded with members to ask their constituency parties to back her after she failed to win the crucial union support needed to make it through to the final stage .
Unless she wins endorsements from at least 33 local party groups she will be kicked out of the race .

Labour: Union publicising support ‘was wrong’ says McCluskey
Mr McCluskey, whose union is Labour’s biggest donor, said it was “disgraceful” that centrists objected to the shadow business secretary taking over at the top. “Now if people haven’t learnt that the British electorate do not like a divided party and want to continue the divisions after this leadership election, then frankly they would be better to clear out now rather than mess us about,” he told BBC Radio 5 Live. He said “good riddance” to those who would rather quit than serve under Ms Long-Bailey, who Unite has endorsed.
Len McCluskey urges moderate Labour MPs to quit party in protest of Corbynista candidate
Appearing on the BBC’s Andrew Marr Show, Mr McCluskey acknowledged Labour’s response to anti-Semitism allegations could have been better. “I’m absolutely convinced that there were those individuals who opposed Jeremy Corbyn’s election right from the beginning, used the anti-Semitism issue – which I think is quite despicable that they did this on such an important subject – to undermine Corbyn, there’s no doubt about that.” Ms Long-Bailey and rivals Lisa Nandy and Emily Thornberry continued their campaign yesterday with a leadership debate in Nottingham. Ms Thornberry pleaded with members to ask their constituency parties to back her after she failed to win the crucial union support needed to make it through to the final stage. Unless she wins endorsements from at least 33 local party groups she will be kicked out of the race.
Emily Thornberry failed to win union support needed to make it through final leadership debate
Ms Nandy is already through to the final round and Ms Long-Bailey is expected to make it into the vote. Frontrunner Sir Keir Starmer did not take part in yesterday’s debate because his mother-in-law is critically ill in hospital after a serious accident. The shadow Brexit secretary will resume campaigning today with a speech in London calling for a federal system to dramatically redistribute power. Ahead of the event, he said: “The status quo is not working. People are crying out for more control, power and say over their own lives and local communities. This can’t be delivered by tinkering around the edges or with short-term fixes. “We need to end the monopoly of power in Westminster and spread it across every town, city, region and nation of the United Kingdom. We have to end the status quo and put power, wealth and opportunity back into the hands of the people.”


thedailyexpress--2020-01-27--Brexit BOOM: Boris Johnson vows to attract ‘world’s most talented minds’ in new visa push

It comes as Home Secretary Priti Patel told businesses they have been too reliant on low-skilled cheap labour from the EU and must now start to invest in training British workers .
A fast-track “ global talent ” visa will launch on February 20 that will speed up and simplify entry to the UK for skilled researchers .
Mr Johnson said : “ The UK has a proud history of scientific discovery , but to lead the field and face the challenges of the future we need to continue to invest in talent and cutting edge research .
“ That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I want to send a message that the UK is open to the most talented minds in the world , and stand ready to support them to turn their ideas into reality.
” Around £300 million is also being invested in a fund for “ experimental and imaginative ” mathematical sciences research over the next five years as the government moves to keep Britain at the forefront of technological developments .
Downing Street said there will be no limit on the number of eligible scientists who want to use the new visa rules @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a particular job .
Sir Mark Walport , UK Research and Innovation chief executive , said the changes would help the country remain a “ globally leading environment ” for research and innovation .
Ministers are also looking for ways to cut the red tape around scientific research as well as how it is funded .
Business Secretary Andrea Leadsom said leaving the EU “ gives us new freedom to strengthen research ” and attracting top scientists will allow the UK to become “ a global science superpower ” .
Latest figures show @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cent , is now in a higher skilled job .
Since 2010 the biggest surge has been in professional , scientific and technical careers such as chemical engineers and architects .
Businesses have warned they will be hit by staff shortages if curbs are imposed on low-skilled workers moving to the UK after Brexit .
But Ms Patel insisted they must focus on recruiting British workers .
“ They have been far too reliant on low-skilled and quite frankly cheap labour from the EU and we want to end that , ” she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is about time that businesses started to invest in people across the whole of the United Kingdom , that they join with us and our agenda to level up the skills , the infrastructure , the economic growth across all our regions , promote growth across the whole of the United Kingdom.
” “ That is one of the key opportunities that we have when we leave the EU through the immigration system , the points based system , that we will be bringing .
“ Yes , supporting the brightest and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do more to invest in capital , in people , in human capital.
” Britain ’ s departure from the EU on Friday will mark the start of the next phase of negotiations with the bloc .
Mr Johnson will make a speech within weeks setting out the Government ’ s objectives for future trade relations .
The UK will push for a zero-tariff , zero-quota , ambitious trade policy in the discussions while carrying out talks with the rest of the world .
Ms Patel insisted the UK will not simply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the future .
“ In terms of divergence , we are not having alignment .
We will be diverging , ” she said .
“ We want to take control of our laws , money and our borders.
” But Brexit Secretary Steve Barclay , whose job is being axed , struck a pointedly softer tone , insisting the UK would not diverge `` just for the sake of it '' .
He told BBC One 's The Andrew Marr Show : `` We 're coming out of the single market , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We 're not just going to diverge just for the sake of it - we need to look at where the opportunities are .
”

Brexit deadline is 'powerful tool' for Johnson says expert
It comes as Home Secretary Priti Patel told businesses they have been too reliant on low-skilled cheap labour from the EU and must now start to invest in training British workers. A fast-track “global talent” visa will launch on February 20 that will speed up and simplify entry to the UK for skilled researchers. Mr Johnson said: “The UK has a proud history of scientific discovery, but to lead the field and face the challenges of the future we need to continue to invest in talent and cutting edge research.
“That is why as we leave the EU I want to send a message that the UK is open to the most talented minds in the world, and stand ready to support them to turn their ideas into reality.” Around £300 million is also being invested in a fund for “experimental and imaginative” mathematical sciences research over the next five years as the government moves to keep Britain at the forefront of technological developments. Downing Street said there will be no limit on the number of eligible scientists who want to use the new visa rules and applicants will not be tied to a particular job. Sir Mark Walport, UK Research and Innovation chief executive, said the changes would help the country remain a “globally leading environment” for research and innovation. Ministers are also looking for ways to cut the red tape around scientific research as well as how it is funded.
Boris Johnson has brought in new visa rules to attract top talent
Business Secretary Andrea Leadsom said leaving the EU “gives us new freedom to strengthen research” and attracting top scientists will allow the UK to become “a global science superpower”. Latest figures show nearly half the workforce, 47 per cent, is now in a higher skilled job. Since 2010 the biggest surge has been in professional, scientific and technical careers such as chemical engineers and architects. Businesses have warned they will be hit by staff shortages if curbs are imposed on low-skilled workers moving to the UK after Brexit. But Ms Patel insisted they must focus on recruiting British workers. “They have been far too reliant on low-skilled and quite frankly cheap labour from the EU and we want to end that,” she told Sky News.
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“We think it is about time that businesses started to invest in people across the whole of the United Kingdom, that they join with us and our agenda to level up the skills, the infrastructure, the economic growth across all our regions, promote growth across the whole of the United Kingdom.” “That is one of the key opportunities that we have when we leave the EU through the immigration system, the points based system, that we will be bringing. “Yes, supporting the brightest and the best but also encouraging British industry to do more to invest in capital, in people, in human capital.” Britain’s departure from the EU on Friday will mark the start of the next phase of negotiations with the bloc. Mr Johnson will make a speech within weeks setting out the Government’s objectives for future trade relations.
The government is to set out its objectives for future trade relations in the coming weeks
The UK will push for a zero-tariff, zero-quota, ambitious trade policy in the discussions while carrying out talks with the rest of the world. Ms Patel insisted the UK will not simply fall in line with EU rules in the future. “In terms of divergence, we are not having alignment. We will be diverging,” she said. “We want to take control of our laws, money and our borders.” But Brexit Secretary Steve Barclay, whose job is being axed, struck a pointedly softer tone, insisting the UK would not diverge "just for the sake of it". He told BBC One's The Andrew Marr Show: "We're coming out of the single market, we're coming out of the customs union. We're not just going to diverge just for the sake of it - we need to look at where the opportunities are.”
Priti Patel insisted the UK will not simply fall in line with EU rules in the future


thedailyexpress--2020-01-26--John Bercow row: Former Speaker’s wife Sally ‘personally lobbied Corbyn for peerage’

Mrs Bercow , a Labour supporter , privately asked the party leader to offer the former Speaker a peerage because the Conservatives would refuse , sources told the Daily Mail .
Mr Bercow said since retiring it has “ become increasingly obvious that the Government has no intention of honouring the centuries-old convention that a departing speaker is promptly elevated to the House of Lords ” .
However , a Government source pointed out that Mr Bercow , who stretched parliamentary rules during his time overseeing Brexit legislation , “ wasn ’ t always a fan of convention ” .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , sparking outrage in the commons .
Brexiteer Tory MPs had urged Mr Johnson to deny Mr Bercow the honour as punishment for his alleged Remain and pro-Labour bias in the final year of his tenure .
A well-placed commons source told the Daily Mail : “ It was when John was still Speaker but contemplating retirement and he was aware the Tories wanted blood .
“ Sally went to Jeremy and said how unfair it was that he was being victimised.
” However , his peerage could be “ put on ice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ex-speaker over allegations of bullying .
Conservative MP Maria Miller told BBC Newsnight : “ It ’ s so important that we don ’ t get distractedly talk of peerages when what we should be focused on is dealing with the complaints put forward by Lord Lisvane and dealing with them through the usual procedures through our independent standards commissioner.
” Former commons clerk Lord Lisvane has become the latest to complain and handed a dossier of allegations to the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards .
The dossier is believed to accuse Mr Bercow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including using inappropriate language .
Mr Bercow denies the claims .
Andrea Leadsom , who the former leader is accused of calling a “ stupid woman ” , said that no one in Parliament should be above the rules .
She told LBC : “ As Leader of the Commons , I did a huge amount of work to bring into place a complaints procedure that would mean nobody , whoever they are , from employees of the house right the way to the Speaker of the Commons , could be allowed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or sexual harassment of any sort whatsoever .
“ That complaints procedure is in place .
Anybody who is found guilty , whoever they are , should , in my view , not be able to skip from one House to the other.
” Mr Bercow ’ s former private secretary Angus Sinclair previously said Mr Bercow smashed a phone on his desk , among other angry outbursts .
Former Black Rod David Leakey , who was in charge of keeping order in the House of Lords , said at the time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fear and intimidation '' .
The Prime Minister 's official spokesman said parliamentary officials would deal with the latest complaint “ fully and promptly ” .
`` These are very concerning allegations and they need to be investigated thoroughly , ” he added .

John Bercow peerage 'not a good idea' says former Black Rod
Mrs Bercow, a Labour supporter, privately asked the party leader to offer the former Speaker a peerage because the Conservatives would refuse, sources told the Daily Mail.
Mr Bercow said since retiring it has “become increasingly obvious that the Government has no intention of honouring the centuries-old convention that a departing speaker is promptly elevated to the House of Lords”.
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However, a Government source pointed out that Mr Bercow, who stretched parliamentary rules during his time overseeing Brexit legislation, “wasn’t always a fan of convention”. Instead Mr Corbyn made the surprise nomination, sparking outrage in the commons.
Brexiteer Tory MPs had urged Mr Johnson to deny Mr Bercow the honour as punishment for his alleged Remain and pro-Labour bias in the final year of his tenure.
A well-placed commons source told the Daily Mail: “It was when John was still Speaker but contemplating retirement and he was aware the Tories wanted blood.
“Sally went to Jeremy and said how unfair it was that he was being victimised.”
Former Speaker John Bercow with his wife, Sally
Jeremy Corbyn (R) sits alongside John Bercow (C) and his wife Sally
However, his peerage could be “put on ice” as pressure mounts on the Remainer ex-speaker over allegations of bullying. Conservative MP Maria Miller told BBC Newsnight: “It’s so important that we don’t get distractedly talk of peerages when what we should be focused on is dealing with the complaints put forward by Lord Lisvane and dealing with them through the usual procedures through our independent standards commissioner.”
Former commons clerk Lord Lisvane has become the latest to complain and handed a dossier of allegations to the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards.
The dossier is believed to accuse Mr Bercow of having bullied and humiliated staff, including using inappropriate language.
Mr Bercow denies the claims.
Andrea Leadsom, who the former leader is accused of calling a “stupid woman”, said that no one in Parliament should be above the rules.
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Mrs Bercow asked the Corbyn to offer the former Speaker a peerage


thedailyexpress--2020-01-26--Brexit explained: What does Brexit mean for Northern Ireland?

The Irish border issue has proven to be arguably the biggest problem in delivering Brexit since the referendum in 2016 .
Sharing the only land border with the EU and forming part of a delicate political peacekeeping agreement , Northern Ireland has always been crucial to the success of the UK ’ s Brexit efforts .
Brexit deal EXPLAINED : What does Brexit REALLY mean for you and me ?
The Irish border issue was , at least in part , a major contributor to the downfall of Prime Minister Theresa May , whose ‘ Brexit backstop ’ proved unacceptable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The backstop aimed to create a temporary solution to the issue of the Irish border - and how to prevent a return to a hard border and the risk of reigniting political conflicts - in the event of no trade deal .
The backstop would see Northern Ireland follow most Single Market rules for goods , as well as some on VAT , agriculture and the environment and the EU ’ s customs code .
The backstop would mean have kept the entire UK as part of a customs union with the EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , limiting the nation ’ s ability to make its own trade agreements and , many believed , not only damaging Brexit but leaving the UK in a worse position than before , as it would no longer have a say in the EU laws it was restricted by .
But the backstop never got off the ground , and as soon as Mrs May was out of office , her successor , Boris Johnson , scrapped it , promising new , workable solutions to the issue of how to prevent a hard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as between Northern Ireland and the rest of Great Britain .
READ MORE : Ireland could VETO Brexit trade deal if UK splits from EU rules

The Irish border issue has proven to be arguably the biggest problem in delivering Brexit since the referendum in 2016. Sharing the only land border with the EU and forming part of a delicate political peacekeeping agreement, Northern Ireland has always been crucial to the success of the UK’s Brexit efforts.
Brexit deal EXPLAINED: What does Brexit REALLY mean for you and me?
The Irish border issue was, at least in part, a major contributor to the downfall of Prime Minister Theresa May, whose ‘Brexit backstop’ proved unacceptable to even some closest to her.
The backstop aimed to create a temporary solution to the issue of the Irish border - and how to prevent a return to a hard border and the risk of reigniting political conflicts - in the event of no trade deal.
The backstop would see Northern Ireland follow most Single Market rules for goods, as well as some on VAT, agriculture and the environment and the EU’s customs code.
The backstop would mean have kept the entire UK as part of a customs union with the EU, covering all goods except for fish, limiting the nation’s ability to make its own trade agreements and, many believed, not only damaging Brexit but leaving the UK in a worse position than before, as it would no longer have a say in the EU laws it was restricted by.
But the backstop never got off the ground, and as soon as Mrs May was out of office, her successor, Boris Johnson, scrapped it, promising new, workable solutions to the issue of how to prevent a hard border on the island of Ireland as well as between Northern Ireland and the rest of Great Britain.
READ MORE: Ireland could VETO Brexit trade deal if UK splits from EU rules


thedailyexpress--2020-01-26--You don’t scare us! EU’s empty threats won’t stop Brexit, says ERG chair

The Chairman of the European Research Group ( ERG ) said the UK is willing to move forward with Brexit “ with or without them ” .
He wrote in the Sunday Telegraph : “ We are told trade wo n't be possible unless we stay within the regulatory and legal order of the EU .
Four times the British people have voted recently not to do that.
” Mr Baker , who was previously given the moniker “ rebel commander ” , added he hopes sense will prevail in the negotiations but “ sense hasn ’ t prevailed in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” .
Nearly four years after the historic referendum , the UK will leave the EU on Friday .
The Government will then have one year to negotiate the country ’ s future relationship with the EU .
Mr Baker wrote : “ Today our impatient , well-meaning friends in the Commission are making dread threats of non-cooperation and domination .
“ Despite agreeing to negotiate the future relationship this year , now they say it will take too long .
“ The UK has now decided who we are and what we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responsible people achieving great things with our friends .
`` We must hope our friends make allowances and walk with us , for we will now go where we have agreed , with or without them.
” He argued threats from the EU will prove futile with the country willing to go it alone if there is no cooperation reaching a deal .
He highlighted previous attempts by Prime Minister David Cameron to renegotiate the UK ’ s relationship with the European Union .
“ The public asked for change and the powers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Mr Baker chairs pro-Brexit group the ERG , who have lobbied the government over the UK 's withdrawal from the EU .
He took over from predecessor , Jacob Rees-Mogg in September last year .
He has previously accused anti-Brexit campaigners of continuous scaremongering regarding a drop in standards in post-Brexit trade deals with other nations .
The Tory MP insisted the UK will remain a “ high standards nation ” on the global stage .
However , Ireland has refused to rule out vetoing a Brexit trade deal that splits from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has also hinted there could be further delays to the negotiations , despite the Prime Minister ’ s insistence on a 2020 deadline .
In a sign that trade talks could quickly become deadlocked , Helen McEntee told Sky News that the level of divergence proposed by the British government was “ worrying ” to the EU .
She repeatedly said the focus should be on getting a “ good deal ” , not just the timing .

Brexit: EU will 'need UK trade more after exit' says Galloway
The Chairman of the European Research Group (ERG) said the UK is willing to move forward with Brexit “with or without them”. He wrote in the Sunday Telegraph: “We are told trade won't be possible unless we stay within the regulatory and legal order of the EU. Four times the British people have voted recently not to do that.”
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Mr Baker, who was previously given the moniker “rebel commander”, added he hopes sense will prevail in the negotiations but “sense hasn’t prevailed in the past and looks at risk today”. Nearly four years after the historic referendum, the UK will leave the EU on Friday. The Government will then have one year to negotiate the country’s future relationship with the EU. Mr Baker wrote: “Today our impatient, well-meaning friends in the Commission are making dread threats of non-cooperation and domination. “Despite agreeing to negotiate the future relationship this year, now they say it will take too long.
Steve Baker, Chairman of the European Research Group (ERG)
The Tory MP argued threats from the EU will prove futile
“The UK has now decided who we are and what we wish to become: a free and responsible people achieving great things with our friends. "We must hope our friends make allowances and walk with us, for we will now go where we have agreed, with or without them.” He argued threats from the EU will prove futile with the country willing to go it alone if there is no cooperation reaching a deal. He highlighted previous attempts by Prime Minister David Cameron to renegotiate the UK’s relationship with the European Union. “The public asked for change and the powers that be refused,” he said. Mr Baker chairs pro-Brexit group the ERG, who have lobbied the government over the UK's withdrawal from the EU. He took over from predecessor, Jacob Rees-Mogg in September last year.
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The UK will leave the EU on Friday 31 January


thedailyexpress--2020-01-27--EU showdown: Brussels poised for civil war over funding as Brexit fears savage bloc

EU leaders will meet on February 20 to thrash out an agreement on the bloc ’ s budget for the next seven years .
So far the EU27 have spent 18 months discussing the long-term budget but have been unable to finalise it , as leaders are split on what areas should be prioritised .
But with Brexit just days away , the EU need to decide on the budget as the bloc will lose Britain ’ s hefty financial contributions from the end of 2020 .
The long term budget , that will determine spending from 2021-27 , has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a year and on Saturday Mr Michel announced “ the time has come ” to agree the terms of the financial framework .
He said in a statement : “ The time has come to reach an agreement at our level on the Multiannual Financial Framework .
“ Any postponement would create serious practical and political problems and jeopardise the continuation of current programs and policies as well as the launch of new ones.
” The EU chief urged leaders to strike a compromise and said : “ Any postponement would create serious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continuation of current programs and policies as well as the launch of new ones .
“ I am fully aware that these negotiations are among the most difficult ones we have to face .
“ But I am also convinced that with common sense and determination we can strike a deal that will benefit all Europeans .
“ To achieve this , all sides will need to demonstrate a spirit of compromise .
I count on your support in this respect.
” The main issue regarding the budget is the percentage of gross @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will have to pay out .
JUST IN : Brexit LIVE : Varadkar ’ s dire warning to UK before EU Brexit talks The EU executive has proposed a budget of 1.11 percent of GNI , while the European Parliament is pushing for 1.3 percent .
But some countries are reluctant to hand over more than 1 percent of their GNI .
As well as working out each member state ’ s financial contributions , the bloc also can not agree the volumes of the main policy areas , the revenue sources and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incentives for the disbursement of EU funds .
The UK is currently the third biggest contributor to the EU budget , forking out just under 12 percent of the total bill in 2018 .
DO N'T MISS : Brexit explained : Will I need a visa to travel to Europe after Brexit ?
[ INSIGHT ] EU stunned as Priti Patel calls Brussels ' bluff on Brexit trade threat [ VIDEO ] Dan Hannan exposes three times EU has 'made up rules as they go along ' [ COMMENT ]

Brexit: Britain 'always odd man out' in the EU says Hannan
EU leaders will meet on February 20 to thrash out an agreement on the bloc’s budget for the next seven years. So far the EU27 have spent 18 months discussing the long-term budget but have been unable to finalise it, as leaders are split on what areas should be prioritised. But with Brexit just days away, the EU need to decide on the budget as the bloc will lose Britain’s hefty financial contributions from the end of 2020.
The long term budget, that will determine spending from 2021-27, has been a sticking point for well over a year and on Saturday Mr Michel announced “the time has come” to agree the terms of the financial framework. He said in a statement: “The time has come to reach an agreement at our level on the Multiannual Financial Framework. “Any postponement would create serious practical and political problems and jeopardise the continuation of current programs and policies as well as the launch of new ones.” The EU chief urged leaders to strike a compromise and said: “Any postponement would create serious practical and political problems and jeopardise the continuation of current programs and policies as well as the launch of new ones.
European Council President Charles Michel has called a meeting to discuss the long-term budget
Ursula von der Leyen is keen to increase EU spending to tackle climate change
“I am fully aware that these negotiations are among the most difficult ones we have to face. “But I am also convinced that with common sense and determination we can strike a deal that will benefit all Europeans. “To achieve this, all sides will need to demonstrate a spirit of compromise. I count on your support in this respect.” The main issue regarding the budget is the percentage of gross national income (GNI) members states will have to pay out. JUST IN: Brexit LIVE: Varadkar’s dire warning to UK before EU Brexit talks
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Boris Johnson signed the Brexit Bill into law last week
The EU executive has proposed a budget of 1.11 percent of GNI, while the European Parliament is pushing for 1.3 percent. But some countries are reluctant to hand over more than 1 percent of their GNI. As well as working out each member state’s financial contributions, the bloc also cannot agree the volumes of the main policy areas, the revenue sources and the possibility to add new conditions and incentives for the disbursement of EU funds. The UK is currently the third biggest contributor to the EU budget, forking out just under 12 percent of the total bill in 2018. DON'T MISS:
Brexit explained: Will I need a visa to travel to Europe after Brexit? [INSIGHT]
EU stunned as Priti Patel calls Brussels' bluff on Brexit trade threat [VIDEO]
Dan Hannan exposes three times EU has 'made up rules as they go along' [COMMENT]
Charles Michel will hold the meeting on February 20
Ursula von der Leyen outlined proposals for a €1 trillion investment plan earlier this month
Germany’s share was the largest, contributing 20.78 percent, followed by France on 15.58 percent, according to Statistica. But despite losing over a tenth of its income from 2021, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is determined to increase spending to tackle climate change and migration. Earlier this month she outlined proposals for a €1trillion 10-year European Green Deal Investment Plan. The ambitious spending plan is part of Brussels’ plan to become carbon neutral by 2050.
Brexit timeline
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thedailyexpress--2020-01-27--Brexit LIVE: Johnson's secret weapon for EU trade talks - No10 unveils ‘TASKFORCE EUROPE'

“ The UK is only one country .
“ And we have a population and a market of 450 million people .
“ The UK , it ’ s about 60 ( million ) .
So if these were two teams up against each other playing football , who do you think has the stronger team ?
” Mr Johnson has repeatedly ruled out requesting an extension to the transition period , during which the UK abides by EU rules , past December 31 .
But Mr Varadkar , whose talks with the Prime Minister were seen as key in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , questioned whether it would be possible to negotiate a full trade deal in time , saying “ it will be difficult to do this ” .
And he warned against any attempt by the UK to broker parts of a deal over time with the EU .
12.19pm update : Varadkar warns UK and EU 's future relationship does 'not have to be contest ' Negotiations on the UK and EU 's future relationship does not have to be a contest with winners and losers , Ireland 's Prime Minister has insisted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier in Dublin , Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said both sides could work together to strike a mutually beneficial deal .
Mr Varadkar also made clear there will always be a place for the UK at the EU table if Brexit does not work out well .
After his meeting with Mr Barnier at Government Buildings , Mr Varadkar was asked about comments in a TV interview when he used a football analogy to suggest the EU would have the `` stronger team '' in the negotiations .
He said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ United Kingdom into the future , we want to be friends with our nearest neighbour . ''
11.51am update : Britain will determine who fishes in its waters post-Brexit - Prime Minister spokesman Britain will determine who fishes in its waters after Brexit , Prime Minister Boris Johnson 's spokesman has said .
The spokesperson was asked whether Britain would trade fishing rights for the financial services gaining access to the European Union .
They said : `` We are going to be taking back control of our own fishing waters .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about our determination on that issue . ''
READ MORE : Brussels ask EU27 to treat UK like they are still in EU next year 11.41am update : Brexit Department will be abolished after Brexit The Brexit Department will cease to exist when the UK exits the EU on January 31 , the Prime Minister 's official spokesman has confirmed .
He told a Westminster briefing that a 40-person Government `` task force '' , headed by David Frost , would lead trade negotiations with the EU .
11.24am update : Barnier adds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concessions after Brexit Mr Barnier said the EU is not ready to ask for concessions nor ready to give concessions .
He said : `` The UK is leaving .
It is their choice , it is not our choice .
We have to first of all organise this orderly Brexit . ''
He added that if no agreement is reached by the end of the year it `` can not be business as usual '' .
Mr Barnier said : `` We are to face a risk of a cliff edge , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will use this time maintaining our line , protecting our interests , our principles and always willing to build the strong and ambitious partnership .
`` The UK is there as a friend and an ally for our common security and economic partners . ''
Mr Barnier said he would present a draft negotiating mandate to the EU member states next Monday .
He said : `` Brexit is not going to go away .
`` We have some important work ahead of us .
The protocol of Ireland/Northern Ireland now needs to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we will watch over its implementation very closely .
`` We also need to begin negotiations on our future relationship - an ambitious relationship with the UK .
It 's time for round two and time will be very short .
We will maintain the EU unity , and we want to find an agreement that works in the interest of the whole EU . ''
Mr Barnier added : `` The level of access for the UK and particular for the UK products to the single market will be proportionate to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vis-a-vis our rules in particular for the state regulations .
`` It 's time for the second ( Brexit ) round .
This time it is very short , ( we ) have no time to lose in any politics .
`` I always worked with everybody in UK with respect and I will continue . ''
10.45am update : Varadkar says there will 'always be a place for UK at EU table ' Leo Varadkar has made clear there will always be a place for the UK at the EU table if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ After a meeting with EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier in Dublin , the Taoiseach said it was important that the remaining member states continue to be united as `` Team 27 '' in the next phase of negotiations with the UK .
He said : `` On Friday , the United Kingdom is leaving the European Union , we 'll say goodbye to an old friend embarking on an adventure .
`` We hope it works out for them .
But if it does not , there will always be a seat kept @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10.13am update : Real reason Britain has 'always been odd one out ' in EU exposed by Daniel Hannan The UK has not even left the European Club and there are already people dreaming about the country rejoining .
Last week , Guy Verhofstadt claimed there is no doubt the UK will be back in Europe .
Speaking on BBC Radio 4 , the European Parliament ’ s Brexit coordinator said it will happen , because young British voters will eventually demand it .
However , in an exclusive interview with Express.co.uk , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ why the UK is fundamentally at odds with the bloc and was always destined to leave .
He said : `` Britain was always the odd man out constitutionally .
`` We were different with our voting system .
`` We had a different legal system , which we shared only with Ireland .
`` And so when the EU drew on the shared traditions of its members , it was usually Britain that found that it didn ’ t match . ''
10.02am update : Barnier arrives in Dublin for talks with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has arrived at Government Buildings in Dublin for his meeting with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar .
Mr Varadkar and Mr Barnier , along with their teams , are discussing the upcoming negotiations on the future relationship between the EU and the UK , including on trade , days before Brexit .
Following their meeting , Mr Barnier will travel to Belfast for his meeting with Northern Ireland Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill and the DUP 's Diane Dodds .
He will then go on to take part in a lecture at Queen 's University @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will give ALL 'divisive ' Brexit coins to beggars [ WATCH ] Why Putin accused David Cameron of 'blackmailing EU ' [ REVEALED ] Brexit explained : What does Brexit mean for jobs ?
[ EXPLAINED ] EU leaders will meet on February 20 to thrash out an agreement on the bloc ’ s budget for the next seven years .
So far the EU27 have spent 18 months discussing the long-term budget but have been unable to finalise it , as leaders are split on what areas should be prioritised .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU need to decide on the budget as the bloc will lose Britain ’ s hefty financial contributions from the end of 2020 .
The long term budget , that will determine spending from 2021-27 , has been a sticking point for well over a year and on Saturday Mr Michel announced “ the time has come ” to agree the terms of the financial framework .
He said in a statement : “ The time has come to reach an agreement at our level on the Multiannual Financial Framework .
“ Any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ problems and jeopardise the continuation of current programs and policies as well as the launch of new ones.
” 8.44am update : Boris won ’ t undercut EU - Varadkar determined there will be no competition after Brexit The Taoiseach made the comments ahead of a meeting with EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier in Dublin today .
Mr Varadkar said that following conversations with the Prime Minister he believes the two sides will be able to agree a “ set of common minimum standards ” on the environment , food and employment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ What Boris Johnson says to me when I meet him is that he and the British government are a little bit offended by this idea that the UK is going to go down that route .
“ He says to me , ‘ There ’ s absolutely no way I ’ d get chlorinated chicken through the House of Commons .
Even if I wanted to , I wouldn ’ t get it through my own public.
’ “ So they ’ re a little bit offended by this idea that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this deregulated lower-standards path .
“ He says to me , ‘ You know , we ’ re the UK .
We ’ re a wealthy , modern country .
Do you not believe our standards are going to be at least as good as they are in EU countries like Bulgaria or Portugal ?
’ “ I think we will be able to agree on a set of common minimum standards on all those areas .
But those common minimum standards will be high standards.
” 8.13am today : Remainers say they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coins Top Remainer figures have expressed their disdain for the new Brexit 50p coin , and refused in advance to use it as tender .
Many took to social media to share their protest ideas and attempt to garner support for what is now regarded as an inevitability - the UK ’ s departure from the EU on January 31 .
The new coin , a 50 pence piece , features the message : “ Peace , prosperity , and friendship with all nations ” as well as the Brexit date in smaller @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coin 's apparently benevolent message , pro-EU campaigners responded with outrage .
Lord Adonis , a Labour peer who has fought ardently to reverse Brexit , tweeted : “ I am never using or accepting this coin.
” Meanwhile , Alistair Campbell , Tony Blair ’ s former spin doctor , shared a similar message as he claimed he will ask till workers for change to make up the 50p should he receive one in the future .
7.56am update : ‘ Bye bye Guy !
’ Brexiteers mock Verhofstadt after he backs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mocked Guy Verhofstadt after he backed Remainers effort to hang a huge pro-EU banner along the White Cliffs of Dover in the run-up to Brexit day .
The EU ’ s chief Brexit coordinator tweeted : “ I love you too !
# IamEuropean ” in response to the huge pro-EU banner .
The stunt came about after Liberal Democrat MEP Antony Hook has raised more than £14,000 for his campaign to hang the banner , which reads “ We still love EU ” .
In response to Mr Verhofstadt ’ s tweet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ finally be free of you next week , ” before adding “ bye bye Guy ” .

Brexit: Leo Varadkar issues warning about UK trade talks
Speaking after his meeting with EU negotiator, Michel Barnier, Mr Varadkar warned the UK while insisting against negotiating an individual deal rather than a comprehensive agreement. Boris Johnson has launched his secret weapon for EU trade talks as Number 10 has unveiled a new task force that will replace the Brexit Department. Earlier, Mr Varadkar warned that the EU has a “stronger team” because of its far larger population and market in comparison, just days before the UK leaves the bloc on Friday. Mr Varadkar also suggested that Prime Minister Boris Johnson may run out of time to get a trade deal signed before the end of the year when the transition period finishes. The Taoiseach told the BBC: “The European Union is a union of 27 member states.
“The UK is only one country. “And we have a population and a market of 450 million people. “The UK, it’s about 60 (million). So if these were two teams up against each other playing football, who do you think has the stronger team?” Mr Johnson has repeatedly ruled out requesting an extension to the transition period, during which the UK abides by EU rules, past December 31. But Mr Varadkar, whose talks with the Prime Minister were seen as key in securing a breakthrough on the exit pact, questioned whether it would be possible to negotiate a full trade deal in time, saying “it will be difficult to do this”. And he warned against any attempt by the UK to broker parts of a deal over time with the EU.
Boris Johnson has announced the Brexit department will cease to exist after Friday
“When I hear people talk about piecemeal, it sounds a bit like cake and eat,” he said. “That isn’t something that will fly in Europe.” Meanwhile, the EU’s chief Brexit negotiator Mr Barnier is in Ireland today and will meet with the Irish Prime Minister in Dublin this morning. The pair will discuss a potential post-Brexit trade deal, FOLLOW OUR LIVE UPDATES HERE:
Brexit: Michel Barnier warns of frictionless trade ‘barriers’
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9.16pm update: Frictionless impossible Speaking tonight, Mr Barnier issued a range of warning to the UK over negotiations. One of those threats was the UK would now be unable to access "frictionless trade". He said: "The UK has chosen to create two regulatory spaces. "This makes frictionless trade impossible. It makes checks indispensable.” 7.52pm update: Union Jack should be flown from all public buildings Former Labour MP, Kate Hoey says she wants to see the "Union flag being flown on all public buildings at all times" after Brexit. She also advised Boris Johnson not to give in to "EU blackmail" during negotiations. She added: "We need a free trade arrangement and we will only get that by staying firm and not giving in to EU blackmail. "We need common sense and more emphasis on individuals having to take responsibility themselves, rather than everything being done by the state. I want to see the Union flag being flown on all public buildings at all times. "Finally, I would like our mainstream media to stop running the country down and start to show some belief in our future outside the EU."
Brexit LIVE: Michel Barnier admits EU must be responsible
7.18pm update: Philip Pullman criticises Brexit coin Author, Philip Pullman has criticised the new Brexit 50p coin. The coin reads: Peace, prosperity and friendship with all nations', followed by Friday's date - when Britain will officially leave the European Union." The author, however, criticised the coin and stated it should have read: "Peace, prosperity, and friendship', with the Oxford comma used before the 'and' to make clear the three components of the list are separate." His comments soon caused outrage on Twitter. 6.47pm update: "UK now a small country" Speaking to the BBC today, Irish Prime Minister, Leo Varadkar suggested the EU will now be a stronger position than the UK. He said the UK had "yet come to terms with the fact it's now a small country". 6.43pm update: EU will never "turn its back on Northern Ireland" Mr Barnier insisted the trade bloc will not "turn its back on Northern Ireland" despite it leaving on January 31. Speaking today, Mr Barnier added: "The EU will never turn its back on its citizens. "And the EU will not turn its back on Northern Ireland, even as it leaves the Union." The EU official also reiterated his fear over the short timetable to complete negotiations. 6.35pm update: EU must be responsible Speaking in Ireland today, Mr Barnier also added the EU has the "responsibility to engage respectfully with UK negotiators, who represent a great nation, one which has been part of the EU for 47 years". Mr Barnier also insisted the EU must not look to punish the UK during negotiations. He added: "We have always respected the ongoing debate in the UK, and we will continue to do so." Additional reporting by Rachel Russell.
Brexit: Michel Barnier thanks Leo Varadkar for help in deal
2.07pm update: Iain Duncan Smith sends Boris warning over critical Brexit promise The former Tory leader insisted people voted to leave the EU to “take back control of our borders” in addition to fishing, farming, laws and money. He added that it is “a promise that we are honour bound to deliver on”. Writing for the Daily Telegraph, Mr Duncan Smith said: “Whilst it is true people who voted Brexit wanted to take back control of our fishing, farming, laws and money, they also voted to take back control of our borders as well. “Over the last three years, as the liberal elite aided by some in the business world have pushed back and tried to dismiss migration control, those of us who were heavily involved in the Brexit campaign know it was a promise that we are honour bound to deliver on.” 1.43pm update: Barnier rejects claims that change in Irish government is 'concern' to Brexit EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier has rejected claims that a change in government in Ireland would be a concern to the Brexit process. Asked about the forthcoming Irish General Election, Mr Barnier insisted a change in government would not have an impact on his working relationship with Ireland. He said: "Obviously I have been informed of the next election in this country. "Frankly speaking, as an EU negotiator I always worked with each and every other 27 EU member state with elected governments. "I will continue to work with the government chosen by the citizens." 1.14pm update: Big Ben bong campaign faces ultimate blow The organisers of a fundraising campaign to get Big Ben to ring to mark Brexit have admitted defeat. More than £270,000 raised in an effort to pay for a pause in restoration works and return the bell into service will now be donated to the Help for Heroes military charity. Tory MP Mark Francois said: "The response from the British people has been fantastic and we are deeply grateful to everyone who donated. "However, having made final attempts over the last several days to persuade the House of Commons Authorities that Big Ben should chime, we regret to report that we have been unsuccessful and therefore we feel we can no longer ask people to donate. We officially closed the fund at noon today."
12.19pm update: Varadkar warns UK and EU's future relationship does 'not have to be contest' Negotiations on the UK and EU's future relationship does not have to be a contest with winners and losers, Ireland's Prime Minister has insisted. After holding talks with EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier in Dublin, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said both sides could work together to strike a mutually beneficial deal. Mr Varadkar also made clear there will always be a place for the UK at the EU table if Brexit does not work out well. After his meeting with Mr Barnier at Government Buildings, Mr Varadkar was asked about comments in a TV interview when he used a football analogy to suggest the EU would have the "stronger team" in the negotiations. He said: "Ireland will be friends to the United Kingdom into the future, we want to be friends with our nearest neighbour." 11.51am update: Britain will determine who fishes in its waters post-Brexit - Prime Minister spokesman Britain will determine who fishes in its waters after Brexit, Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman has said. The spokesperson was asked whether Britain would trade fishing rights for the financial services gaining access to the European Union. They said: "We are going to be taking back control of our own fishing waters. "The EU should be in no doubt about our determination on that issue." READ MORE: Brussels ask EU27 to treat UK like they are still in EU next year
Leo Varadkar meets with Michel Barnier in Dublin
11.41am update: Brexit Department will be abolished after Brexit The Brexit Department will cease to exist when the UK exits the EU on January 31, the Prime Minister's official spokesman has confirmed. He told a Westminster briefing that a 40-person Government "task force", headed by David Frost, would lead trade negotiations with the EU. 11.24am update: Barnier adds EU 'not ready' to ask for concessions after Brexit Mr Barnier said the EU is not ready to ask for concessions nor ready to give concessions. He said: "The UK is leaving. It is their choice, it is not our choice. We have to first of all organise this orderly Brexit." He added that if no agreement is reached by the end of the year it "cannot be business as usual". Mr Barnier said: "We are to face a risk of a cliff edge, in particular for trade. "We will use this time maintaining our line, protecting our interests, our principles and always willing to build the strong and ambitious partnership. "The UK is there as a friend and an ally for our common security and economic partners."
11.15am update: Barnier will present draft negotiating mandate to EU member states Mr Barnier said he would present a draft negotiating mandate to the EU member states next Monday. He said: "Brexit is not going to go away. "We have some important work ahead of us. The protocol of Ireland/Northern Ireland now needs to be implemented in all its dimensions - we will watch over its implementation very closely. "We also need to begin negotiations on our future relationship - an ambitious relationship with the UK. It's time for round two and time will be very short. We will maintain the EU unity, and we want to find an agreement that works in the interest of the whole EU." Mr Barnier added: "The level of access for the UK and particular for the UK products to the single market will be proportionate to the level of commitments taken by the UK vis-a-vis our rules in particular for the state regulations. "It's time for the second (Brexit) round. This time it is very short, (we) have no time to lose in any politics. "I always worked with everybody in UK with respect and I will continue." 10.45am update: Varadkar says there will 'always be a place for UK at EU table' Leo Varadkar has made clear there will always be a place for the UK at the EU table if Brexit does not work out well. After a meeting with EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier in Dublin, the Taoiseach said it was important that the remaining member states continue to be united as "Team 27" in the next phase of negotiations with the UK. He said: "On Friday, the United Kingdom is leaving the European Union, we'll say goodbye to an old friend embarking on an adventure. "We hope it works out for them. But if it does not, there will always be a seat kept for them at the table." 10.13am update: Real reason Britain has 'always been odd one out' in EU exposed by Daniel Hannan The UK has not even left the European Club and there are already people dreaming about the country rejoining. Last week, Guy Verhofstadt claimed there is no doubt the UK will be back in Europe. Speaking on BBC Radio 4, the European Parliament’s Brexit coordinator said it will happen, because young British voters will eventually demand it. However, in an exclusive interview with Express.co.uk, Conservative MEP Daniel Hannan explained the reason why the UK is fundamentally at odds with the bloc and was always destined to leave. He said: "Britain was always the odd man out constitutionally. "We were different with our voting system. "We didn't have a written constitution. "We had a different legal system, which we shared only with Ireland. "And so when the EU drew on the shared traditions of its members, it was usually Britain that found that it didn’t match." 10.02am update: Barnier arrives in Dublin for talks with Varadkar EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier has arrived at Government Buildings in Dublin for his meeting with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar. Mr Varadkar and Mr Barnier, along with their teams, are discussing the upcoming negotiations on the future relationship between the EU and the UK, including on trade, days before Brexit. Following their meeting, Mr Barnier will travel to Belfast for his meeting with Northern Ireland Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill and the DUP's Diane Dodds. He will then go on to take part in a lecture at Queen's University. DON'T MISS
Remainer insists she will give ALL 'divisive' Brexit coins to beggars [WATCH]
Why Putin accused David Cameron of 'blackmailing EU' [REVEALED]
Brexit explained: What does Brexit mean for jobs? [EXPLAINED]
European Council President Charles Michel has called a meeting to discuss the long-term budge
9.24am update: Brussels face civil war over funding as Brexit hits bloc EU leaders will meet on February 20 to thrash out an agreement on the bloc’s budget for the next seven years. So far the EU27 have spent 18 months discussing the long-term budget but have been unable to finalise it, as leaders are split on what areas should be prioritised. But with Brexit just days away, the EU need to decide on the budget as the bloc will lose Britain’s hefty financial contributions from the end of 2020. The long term budget, that will determine spending from 2021-27, has been a sticking point for well over a year and on Saturday Mr Michel announced “the time has come” to agree the terms of the financial framework. He said in a statement: “The time has come to reach an agreement at our level on the Multiannual Financial Framework. “Any postponement would create serious practical and political problems and jeopardise the continuation of current programs and policies as well as the launch of new ones.” 8.44am update: Boris won’t undercut EU - Varadkar determined there will be no competition after Brexit The Taoiseach made the comments ahead of a meeting with EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier in Dublin today. Mr Varadkar said that following conversations with the Prime Minister he believes the two sides will be able to agree a “set of common minimum standards” on the environment, food and employment law. He told the Sunday Times: “What Boris Johnson says to me when I meet him is that he and the British government are a little bit offended by this idea that the UK is going to go down that route. “He says to me, ‘There’s absolutely no way I’d get chlorinated chicken through the House of Commons. Even if I wanted to, I wouldn’t get it through my own public.’ “So they’re a little bit offended by this idea that the UK is going to go down this deregulated lower-standards path. “He says to me, ‘You know, we’re the UK. We’re a wealthy, modern country. Do you not believe our standards are going to be at least as good as they are in EU countries like Bulgaria or Portugal?’ “I think we will be able to agree on a set of common minimum standards on all those areas. But those common minimum standards will be high standards.”
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