thedailyexpress--2020-07-17--Brexit warning: UK and EU deal on 'collision course for failure' - could go down to wire

Britain and the European Union are continuing talks in a desperate attempt to strike a post-Brexit trade deal before the end of the transition period on December 31 .
The UK officially left the bloc on January 31 , with trade talks beginning in Brussels two months later , led by Boris Johnson 's chief negotiator David Frost and Brussels counterpart Michel Barnier .
Face-to-face talks were put on hold due to the coronavirus crisis sweeping through the continent , but resumed last month in Brussels , followed by further meetings in London at 10 Downing Street last week .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of progress made in negotiations to this point , continuing to insist `` significant differences '' remain between them .
The UK and EU teams have attacked each other over demands made in a future trade deal , with elements such as fisheries , a level playing field and access from the City of London to EU financial markets acting as major stumbling blocks .
Mr Johnson wants a deal completed over the coming weeks but Angela Merkel - whose country Germany took over presidency of the European Council on July 1 - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and has warned EU nations to prepare for a no deal scenario .
Denis Macshane , a former Europe Minister in the UK , believes the two sides may have to wait until `` the last moment '' before any deal is agreed .
The former British Cabinet minister told The Parliament Magazine : “ The only talks that matter consist of the private conversation going on between the left and right sides of Boris Johnson 's head.
” “ Does he want to risk a major crisis of 50km queues at Dover @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being shut out of its most profitable markets , threats to data exchange on criminals and all thousand and one relations the UK has taken for granted for half a century as a functioning member of first the EEC now the EU ?
” He added : “ How intense is the pressure from Tory MPs and elderly grass roots party activists who believe as an article of faith that any links with Europe other than on exclusively English terms are unacceptable.
” “ Michel Barnier is sending out all sorts of compromise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Justice not applying to UK domestic law .
But so far there has been no equal reciprocity by Johnson.
” READ MORE : EU ’ s Brexit strategy unveiled : How bloc insider picked apart tactics “ I suspect if a deal does happen it will happen in a rush at the last moment with lots more to be done in the coming years .
But no-one knows.
” “ The British Prime Minister looks shattered and at times rambling and confused as he has not fully recovered from his COVID-19 near-death @ @ @ @ @ @ @ himself .
“ He remains a journalist more than a Government leader and like all journalists will only focus once a deadline is imminent.
” Roger Liddle , a Labour Party member of the House of Lords who also served as special adviser on European affairs to former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair from 1997-2004 , warned the UK and EU `` are on collision course for failure '' .
DO N'T MISS EU arrogance laid : Why bloc 's Galileo blunder 'plays into China hands ' [ COMMENT ] Juncker ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to rejoin bloc [ INSIGHT ] Brexit : Blair savaged over plea for 12 month delay to avoid no deal [ POLL ] Mr Liddle , who is also art of the UK-based think tank the Policy Network , argued in a paper : “ The negotiations on Britain ’ s future relationship with the EU are on a collision course for failure .
To avoid this will require mutual give and take.
” `` Principally , the British government needs to climb down from its self-imagined pedestal of Brexit triumph . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ huge economic risks in piling on top of the grave COVID-19 emergency with the negative impacts of no deal , or a very bare bones trade deal , which is probably where we are heading.
” The latest warnings come as the European commission has been asked to draw up a `` needs assessment '' in case of a no deal Brexit at the end of the transition period .

Brexit: EU are 'over-asking' in UK trade negotiations says expert
Britain and the European Union are continuing talks in a desperate attempt to strike a post-Brexit trade deal before the end of the transition period on December 31. The UK officially left the bloc on January 31, with trade talks beginning in Brussels two months later, led by Boris Johnson's chief negotiator David Frost and Brussels counterpart Michel Barnier. Face-to-face talks were put on hold due to the coronavirus crisis sweeping through the continent, but resumed last month in Brussels, followed by further meetings in London at 10 Downing Street last week.
Trending
But both sides have lamented the lack of progress made in negotiations to this point, continuing to insist "significant differences" remain between them. The UK and EU teams have attacked each other over demands made in a future trade deal, with elements such as fisheries, a level playing field and access from the City of London to EU financial markets acting as major stumbling blocks. Mr Johnson wants a deal completed over the coming weeks but Angela Merkel - whose country Germany took over presidency of the European Council on July 1 - said talks could stretch into the autumn and has warned EU nations to prepare for a no deal scenario. Denis Macshane, a former Europe Minister in the UK, believes the two sides may have to wait until "the last moment" before any deal is agreed.
Brexit news: A deal between the UK and EU may go down to the wire, a former Europe minister has said
Brexit news: Boris Johnson has always insisted a trade deal must be signed before the end of the transition period
The former British Cabinet minister told The Parliament Magazine: “The only talks that matter consist of the private conversation going on between the left and right sides of Boris Johnson's head.” “Does he want to risk a major crisis of 50km queues at Dover or Calais, the City of London being shut out of its most profitable markets, threats to data exchange on criminals and all thousand and one relations the UK has taken for granted for half a century as a functioning member of first the EEC now the EU?” He added: “How intense is the pressure from Tory MPs and elderly grass roots party activists who believe as an article of faith that any links with Europe other than on exclusively English terms are unacceptable.” “Michel Barnier is sending out all sorts of compromise signals on fisheries and the European Court of Justice not applying to UK domestic law. But so far there has been no equal reciprocity by Johnson.” READ MORE: EU’s Brexit strategy unveiled: How bloc insider picked apart tactics
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Brexit news: Michel Barnier arriving at 10 Downing Street last week
“I suspect if a deal does happen it will happen in a rush at the last moment with lots more to be done in the coming years. But no-one knows.” “The British Prime Minister looks shattered and at times rambling and confused as he has not fully recovered from his COVID-19 near-death experience. I doubt if he knows himself. “He remains a journalist more than a Government leader and like all journalists will only focus once a deadline is imminent.” Roger Liddle, a Labour Party member of the House of Lords who also served as special adviser on European affairs to former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair from 1997-2004, warned the UK and EU "are on collision course for failure". DON'T MISS
EU arrogance laid: Why bloc's Galileo blunder 'plays into China hands' [COMMENT]
Juncker’s Brexit trapdoor: Secret way for UK to rejoin bloc [INSIGHT]
Brexit: Blair savaged over plea for 12 month delay to avoid no deal [POLL]
Brexit news: David Frost has led the UK's team of negotiators in trade talks
Brexit news: Charles Michel wants the European Commission to plan for a no deal scenario
Mr Liddle, who is also art of the UK-based think tank the Policy Network, argued in a paper: “The negotiations on Britain’s future relationship with the EU are on a collision course for failure. To avoid this will require mutual give and take.” "Principally, the British government needs to climb down from its self-imagined pedestal of Brexit triumph." He also warned the UK “faces huge economic risks in piling on top of the grave COVID-19 emergency with the negative impacts of no deal, or a very bare bones trade deal, which is probably where we are heading.” The latest warnings come as the European commission has been asked to draw up a "needs assessment" in case of a no deal Brexit at the end of the transition period.
Brexit news: The transition period ends on December 31, 2020


thedailyexpress--2020-07-17--Labour war: McCluskey attacks 'timid' Starmer for lack of leadership on job loss 'tsunami'

Mr McCluskey - a close ally of former leader Jeremy Corbyn - warned a `` fear '' of being attacked is preventing Sir Keir from clearly setting out what the opposition would do to stop a “ tsunami of redundancies ” .
The Unite general secretary , who 's term at the UK 's largest trade union ends in April 2022 , also warned the former Shadow Brexit Secretary he wo n't defeat Boris Johnson and the Conservative Party in a general election without the backing of the Left .
Mr McCluskey added he will be “ watching very closely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by his leadership campaign pledges , primarily including maintaining radical policies developed under Mr Corbyn .
In an interview with The House magazine , the Unite boss also poured cold water on reports of the demise of Labour 's Corbynite wing , labelling them “ greatly exaggerated ” .
He also appealed to those on the Left not to quit Labour , calling for a “ gathering of the Left ” to decide the policy positions around which they should fight for .
Mr McCluskey is also `` worried '' about the possibility @ @ @ @ @ @ @ themselves from the economic plan drawn up by former Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell , which he insisted had a `` significant amount of credibility and support ” .
But in a huge warning shot to Sir Keir , in assessing Labour 's leadership response to the coronavirus crisis , he said : “ It seems to me there ’ s an element of timidity among some of the leadership team to come out and say what is needed for fear that they then get attacked about ‘ Well okay , where ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ‘ how are you going to do this or how are you going to do that ?
’ .
“ There is an element of , I think , fear rather than caution .
I can understand people being cautious , but you can be cautious and confident .
“ Labour needs the politics of ideals and ideas .
Otherwise , you just look like middle management , a middle management team .
That won ’ t inspire anybody.
” Mr McCluskey also warned his support for Sir Keir is “ very much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get him into leadership ” .
This includes continuing Labour 's radical values , hiking taxes on the highest earners , improving union rights and nationalising the rail , mail and utility sectors - all key policy pledges under Mr Corbyn .
But in another huge warning to Sir Keir , the Unite general secretary said : “ It can only happen , and he can only become Prime Minister , if he has the support of the left .
“ If he moves away from the Left , if he doesn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then all that will happen is we will find ourselves into internal wrangling again on policy issues that have been decided.
” Speaking ion the possibility of Labour moving away from the economic platform of redistribution and renationalisation , he added : “ I ’ ve even heard certain inside members of the frontbench , whose names I won ’ t mention just yet , suggest that the last five years on economic policy has been a disaster .
`` Now , I hope that doesn ’ t reflect Keir ’ s views @ @ @ @ @ @ @ DO N'T MISS Labour peer ’ s furious swipe at Boris Johnson over Lewis Hamilton row [ COMMNENT ] Why is Keir Starmer a Sir ?
What Labour leader did for Stephen Lawrence [ ANALYSIS ] Corbyn exposed : Russian hackers intended to elect ex-Labour leader [ INSIGHT ] Mr McCluskey also lashed out at Shadow Cabinet ministers who may have been questioning Labour 's `` economic credibility '' , warning Sir Keir to keep a `` very close eye on that '' .
He continued : “ There is no doubt in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2015-2017 , John McDonnell and Jeremy set about presenting an alternative economic strategy that gained a significant amount of credibility and support… “ When I listen to shadow cabinet ministers trying to present in a subtle way a question mark over Labour ’ s economic credibility , that worries me .
“ I don ’ t know whether it ’ s these individuals who take it upon themselves and if so , then Keir needs to keep a very close eye on that . ''
The warnings to Sir Keir come as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a breakthrough in the battle to succeed Mr McCluskey as general secretary of Unite .

Len McCluskey on Labour Party ‘abandoning’ 2017 pledges
Mr McCluskey - a close ally of former leader Jeremy Corbyn - warned a "fear" of being attacked is preventing Sir Keir from clearly setting out what the opposition would do to stop a “tsunami of redundancies”. The Unite general secretary, who's term at the UK's largest trade union ends in April 2022, also warned the former Shadow Brexit Secretary he won't defeat Boris Johnson and the Conservative Party in a general election without the backing of the Left. Mr McCluskey added he will be “watching very closely” to see if Sir Keir sticks by his leadership campaign pledges, primarily including maintaining radical policies developed under Mr Corbyn.
Trending
In an interview with The House magazine, the Unite boss also poured cold water on reports of the demise of Labour's Corbynite wing, labelling them “greatly exaggerated”. He also appealed to those on the Left not to quit Labour, calling for a “gathering of the Left” to decide the policy positions around which they should fight for. Mr McCluskey is also "worried" about the possibility to Labour’s Treasury team distancing themselves from the economic plan drawn up by former Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell, which he insisted had a "significant amount of credibility and support”. But in a huge warning shot to Sir Keir, in assessing Labour's leadership response to the coronavirus crisis, he said: “It seems to me there’s an element of timidity among some of the leadership team to come out and say what is needed for fear that they then get attacked about ‘Well okay, where’s the money coming from?’ and ‘how are you going to do this or how are you going to do that?’.
Labour Party news: Keir Starmer has been sent a huge warning by Unite boss Len McCluskey
Labour Party news: Len McCluskey warned Keir Starmer he will not win a general election without backing from the left
“There is an element of, I think, fear rather than caution. I can understand people being cautious, but you can be cautious and confident. “Labour needs the politics of ideals and ideas. Otherwise, you just look like middle management, a middle management team. That won’t inspire anybody.” Mr McCluskey also warned his support for Sir Keir is “very much based on the pledges that he made to get him into leadership”. This includes continuing Labour's radical values, hiking taxes on the highest earners, improving union rights and nationalising the rail, mail and utility sectors - all key policy pledges under Mr Corbyn. READ MORE: Sir Michael Fallon mocks Jeremy Corbyn in stern Russia warning
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Labour Party news: Len McCluskey was a strong ally of Jeremy Corbyn
But in another huge warning to Sir Keir, the Unite general secretary said: “It can only happen, and he can only become Prime Minister, if he has the support of the left. “If he moves away from the Left, if he doesn’t get the balance correct, then all that will happen is we will find ourselves into internal wrangling again on policy issues that have been decided.” Speaking ion the possibility of Labour moving away from the economic platform of redistribution and renationalisation, he added: “I’ve even heard certain inside members of the frontbench, whose names I won’t mention just yet, suggest that the last five years on economic policy has been a disaster. "Now, I hope that doesn’t reflect Keir’s views, because it is simply untrue.” DON'T MISS
Labour peer’s furious swipe at Boris Johnson over Lewis Hamilton row [COMMNENT]
Why is Keir Starmer a Sir? What Labour leader did for Stephen Lawrence [ANALYSIS]
Corbyn exposed: Russian hackers intended to elect ex-Labour leader [INSIGHT]
Labour Party news: Keir Starmer has been sent a huge warning by Len McCluskey
Labour Party news: Keir Starmer has been savaged over the party's 'timid' leadership
Mr McCluskey also lashed out at Shadow Cabinet ministers who may have been questioning Labour's "economic credibility", warning Sir Keir to keep a "very close eye on that". He continued: “There is no doubt in my mind that in the period from 2015-2017, John McDonnell and Jeremy set about presenting an alternative economic strategy that gained a significant amount of credibility and support… “When I listen to shadow cabinet ministers trying to present in a subtle way a question mark over Labour’s economic credibility, that worries me. “I don’t know whether it’s these individuals who take it upon themselves and if so, then Keir needs to keep a very close eye on that." The warnings to Sir Keir come as a fierce critic of Sir Keir edges towards a breakthrough in the battle to succeed Mr McCluskey as general secretary of Unite.
Labour Party news: The main reason voters did not stick with the opposition


thedailyexpress--2020-07-17--Give others a chance! Sturgeon ordered to stand down as SNP boss in next Scottish election

Former SNP deputy leader Jim Sillars has accused the First Minister of leaving the Scottish independence movement `` stranded '' and at risk of splintering .
In a letter , Mr Sillars urged Nicola Sturgeon to consider the role parties such as the newly formed Alliance for Independence could play .
The veteran politician who served as deputy leader of the SNP said Ms Sturgeon should `` exercise some wisdom '' and consider the situation from the perspective of the broader Independence movement , rather than just from a party political stance .
Holyrood uses the Additional Member system meaning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In the first vote , a voter chooses a candidate to represent one of Scotland ’ s 73 constituencies and each constituency elects one MSP .
A second vote is used to select 56 additional members who represent eight different parliamentary regions .
However , in the second vote , the electorate picks a party rather than a candidate .
Several MSPs have pointed out this can make it difficult for one party to get a majority .
Mr Sillars argued Ms Sturgeon has `` led the independence movement up the political hill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and now faces the `` possible consequences of it splintering as it comes down it '' .
He added : `` She now has to exercise some wisdom , take off the party hat and put on the movement one . ''
He argued there is a `` logic in the case for the SNP not standing on the list '' because constituency victories could `` waste those votes '' .
He also urged those in the SNP who have spoken out against the prospect of a new party to `` think again @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been successful in creating an independence movement which has many activists and voters who do not align themselves with its social and economic policies .
`` Their views can not be dismissed in favour of a narrow party interest .
“ I would urge the SNP leader to think again on the role this new Alliance for Independence group can play towards the necessary mandate .
DO N'T MISS : Sturgeon ordered to set out Scottish independence plan or ‘ f**k off ' [ REVEAL ] 'Do n't rush back ! '
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] English tourists demand their money back over Sturgeon border threats [ JUST IN ]

Coronavirus exposed ‘heart of problem’ in EU says Jim Sillars
Former SNP deputy leader Jim Sillars has accused the First Minister of leaving the Scottish independence movement "stranded" and at risk of splintering. In a letter, Mr Sillars urged Nicola Sturgeon to consider the role parties such as the newly formed Alliance for Independence could play.
Trending
The veteran politician who served as deputy leader of the SNP said Ms Sturgeon should "exercise some wisdom" and consider the situation from the perspective of the broader Independence movement, rather than just from a party political stance. Holyrood uses the Additional Member system meaning voters have two votes in elections. In the first vote, a voter chooses a candidate to represent one of Scotland’s 73 constituencies and each constituency elects one MSP. A second vote is used to select 56 additional members who represent eight different parliamentary regions.
Jim Sillars said Nicola Sturgeon should share the indy limelight
Ms Sturgeon has been urged to allow other independence parties to have a chance
However, in the second vote, the electorate picks a party rather than a candidate. Several MSPs have pointed out this can make it difficult for one party to get a majority. Mr Sillars argued Ms Sturgeon has "led the independence movement up the political hill and left it stranded there", and now faces the "possible consequences of it splintering as it comes down it". He added: "She now has to exercise some wisdom, take off the party hat and put on the movement one." READ MORE: John Curtice dismantles SNP independence plans despite support
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Jim Sillars served as SNP deputy leader
He argued there is a "logic in the case for the SNP not standing on the list" because constituency victories could "waste those votes". He also urged those in the SNP who have spoken out against the prospect of a new party to "think again", adding: "The SNP has been successful in creating an independence movement which has many activists and voters who do not align themselves with its social and economic policies. "Their views cannot be dismissed in favour of a narrow party interest. “I would urge the SNP leader to think again on the role this new Alliance for Independence group can play towards the necessary mandate. DON'T MISS:
Sturgeon ordered to set out Scottish independence plan or ‘f**k off' [REVEAL]
'Don't rush back!' Sturgeon mocked in brutal backlash [INSIGHT]
English tourists demand their money back over Sturgeon border threats [JUST IN]
Jim Sillars (pictured right) with Alex Salmond and Nicola Sturgeon
Jim Sillars in the 1970s


thedailyexpress--2020-07-18--Corbyn's Labour being eradicated: Another key ally to step down as Starmer tightens grip

Mr McCluskey , a key ally of former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn , became general secretary of the UK ’ s largest trade union in 2010 and was twice re-elected to the position .
The 69-year-old 's term of office finishes in 2022 but The Times reported that a successor will be chosen a year earlier .
Mr McCluskey has been a vocal critic of Sir Keir , savaging his “ timid leadership ” and warning him he can not win a general election without the support of the Left .
In a previous shock interview , Mr McCluskey also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ very much based on the pledges that he made to get him into leadership ” .
This included continuing Labour 's radical values , hiking taxes on the highest earners , improving union rights and nationalising the rail , mail and utility sectors - all key policy pledges under Mr Corbyn .
Its support was vital to Mr Corbyn ’ s survival as Labour leader for four years and he appointed its officials to powerful roles in his office .
However , the union is now at a crossroads , as Sir @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Corbyn era and reduce Labour ’ s reliance on left-wing unions .
READ MORE : Keir Starmer warned he could follow Corbyn by falling into THIS trap It comes at a time when key allies of Mr Corbyn slowly disappear from the Labour front benches .
Sir Keir sacked former shadow education secretary Rebecca Long-Bailey in June after she shared an article containing anti-Semitic conspiracy theory and just this week Lloyd Russell-Moyle stepped down from the frontbench after he came under pressure for comments he made about JK Rowling 's domestic abuse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ departure comes after Unison leader Dave Prentis announced he would be stepping down from his role at the end of the year , while Tim Roache , general secretary of the GMB , stood down in April citing ill health .
DO N'T MISS Labour war : McCluskey attacks 'timid ' Starmer for lack of leadership [ OPINION ] Jeremy Corbyn 's Brexit plot exposed as 'cynical betrayal ' [ REVEALED ] Sir Michael Fallon mocks Jeremy Corbyn in stern Russia warning [ INSIGHT ] The GMB later said it had received an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of allegations have been made about Tim 's conduct '' while he was leader .
The race to succeed Mr McCluskey had already begun , with Steve Turner , the union 's assistant general secretary , submitting his nomination to be the candidate of United Left , a broad-left organisation within the union .
The section is holding a hustings on Saturday with Mr Turner and Northern Ireland-born solicitor left-wing veteran nominated as candidates .

Len McCluskey says he gets 'angry' over trade union restrictions
Mr McCluskey, a key ally of former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, became general secretary of the UK’s largest trade union in 2010 and was twice re-elected to the position. The 69-year-old's term of office finishes in 2022 but The Times reported that a successor will be chosen a year earlier.
Trending
Mr McCluskey has been a vocal critic of Sir Keir, savaging his “timid leadership” and warning him he cannot win a general election without the support of the Left. In a previous shock interview, Mr McCluskey also warned his support for Sir Keir is “very much based on the pledges that he made to get him into leadership”. This included continuing Labour's radical values, hiking taxes on the highest earners, improving union rights and nationalising the rail, mail and utility sectors - all key policy pledges under Mr Corbyn.
Len McCluskey is reportedly set to step down early
Len McCluskey became general secretary of the UK’s largest trade union in 2010
Unite, with 1.2 million members, is Labour’s biggest donor. Its support was vital to Mr Corbyn’s survival as Labour leader for four years and he appointed its officials to powerful roles in his office. However, the union is now at a crossroads, as Sir Keir seeks to break away definitively from the Corbyn era and reduce Labour’s reliance on left-wing unions. READ MORE: Keir Starmer warned he could follow Corbyn by falling into THIS trap
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
McCluskey is a key ally of former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn
It comes at a time when key allies of Mr Corbyn slowly disappear from the Labour front benches. Sir Keir sacked former shadow education secretary Rebecca Long-Bailey in June after she shared an article containing anti-Semitic conspiracy theory and just this week Lloyd Russell-Moyle stepped down from the frontbench after he came under pressure for comments he made about JK Rowling's domestic abuse revelations. Mr McCluskey’s reported departure comes after Unison leader Dave Prentis announced he would be stepping down from his role at the end of the year, while Tim Roache, general secretary of the GMB, stood down in April citing ill health. DON'T MISS
Labour war: McCluskey attacks 'timid' Starmer for lack of leadership [OPINION]
Jeremy Corbyn's Brexit plot exposed as 'cynical betrayal' [REVEALED]
Sir Michael Fallon mocks Jeremy Corbyn in stern Russia warning [INSIGHT]
Len McCluskey has been vocal critic of Sir Keir
Sir Keir Starmer continues to make his mark on the Labour Party
The GMB later said it had received an anonymous letter in which "a number of allegations have been made about Tim's conduct" while he was leader. The race to succeed Mr McCluskey had already begun, with Steve Turner, the union's assistant general secretary, submitting his nomination to be the candidate of United Left, a broad-left organisation within the union. The section is holding a hustings on Saturday with Mr Turner and Northern Ireland-born solicitor left-wing veteran nominated as candidates.
Main reason for not sticking with Labour
The hustings were announced when it was believed the term of Mr McCluskey would finish in April 2022. Mr Beckett, a fierce critic of Sir Keir, is the current de facto deputy to Mr McCluskey, and previously accused the Labour leader of punishing the working class for the coronavirus crisis. He has been tipped to see off the challenge of Mr Turner, a union official that has played a leading role in industrial disputes involving industry sector giants British and Bombardier.


thedailyexpress--2020-07-18--‘Expensive distraction’ - Sturgeon's own advisor mocks plan to hand Scots £11k a year

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has backed the scheme which would see every citizen provided with guaranteed payments no matter what their circumstances are .
Ms Sturgeon said of UBI : “ I am a supporter of [ UBI ] , I have long been interested in the concept , I think the case for it has been immeasurably strengthened by the crisis we ’ re living through.
” But Benny Higgins , who helped to produce a recent report on how the Scottish economy should recover from COVID-19 , said the scheme would be an “ expensive distraction ” .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ personal conclusion at the moment is that we 've really got to use all of our resources to get people back to work , rather than support them out of work .
`` I think , therefore , this is n't the time to prioritise a universal basic income .
“ I 'd rather we use all of our resources to get Scotland back to work . ''
A Scottish Government study recommended that Scots are paid £11,000 a year as part of a £186 million experiment .
The study revealed that this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three year pilot by the Scottish and UK Governments alongside local authorities .
Four councils including in Edinburgh , Glasgow , Fife and North Ayrshire worked on the research for two years with NHS Health Scotland , now part of Public Health Scotland .
The Scottish government said that a three-year pilot will provide a better understanding of how an income could impact on poverty , unemployment , health and financial wellbeing .
READ MORE : SNP sparks confusion over claim Scotland will receive £21m SNP MP Douglas Chapman who represents West Fife @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a written question to the Department for Work and Pensions .
It revealed that £1 million worth of Universal Credit advance payments were issued in his constituency between March 1 and June 16 , 2,310 amid signs of increasing unemployment due to COVID-19 .
He added to The Courier : “ The Scottish Government currently does not have the power to implement one .
“ The UK Government needs to either transfer the powers to Holyrood or introduce the system nationwide to make sure everyone has a guaranteed income and no one is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ N'T MISS : Ally urges Sturgeon to stand down SNP in next Scottish election [ REVEAL ] Sturgeon ordered to set out Scottish independence plan or ‘ f**k off ' [ JUST IN ] John Curtice dismantles SNP independence plans despite support [ INSIGHT ] However , Holyrood does not have the powers to introduce a universal basic income on its own because the majority of welfare and tax responsibilities are still reserved to Westminster .
Mr Higgins continued : `` We 're faced with an unprecedented challenge , and the biggest issue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unemployment .
`` And I think to be distracted by universal basic income now , at a time when actually it would be very expensive and it would detract from the focus on unemployment , I think it 's just not the right time . ''
In response to the concerns , a Department for Work and Pensions spokesman said that Scotland had significant “ welfare powers and can top-up existing benefits , pay discretionary payments and create entirely new benefits altogether .
”

Nicola Sturgeon calls for ‘continued support’ from UK government
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has backed the scheme which would see every citizen provided with guaranteed payments no matter what their circumstances are. Ms Sturgeon said of UBI: “I am a supporter of [UBI], I have long been interested in the concept, I think the case for it has been immeasurably strengthened by the crisis we’re living through.”
Trending
But Benny Higgins, who helped to produce a recent report on how the Scottish economy should recover from COVID-19, said the scheme would be an “expensive distraction”. He told The Herald: “My personal conclusion at the moment is that we've really got to use all of our resources to get people back to work, rather than support them out of work. "I think, therefore, this isn't the time to prioritise a universal basic income. “I'd rather we use all of our resources to get Scotland back to work."
The Scottish Government commissioned a review into UBI
Nicola Sturgeon has backed calls for UBI
A Scottish Government study recommended that Scots are paid £11,000 a year as part of a £186 million experiment. The study revealed that this could take place as part of a three year pilot by the Scottish and UK Governments alongside local authorities. Four councils including in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Fife and North Ayrshire worked on the research for two years with NHS Health Scotland, now part of Public Health Scotland. The Scottish government said that a three-year pilot will provide a better understanding of how an income could impact on poverty, unemployment, health and financial wellbeing. READ MORE: SNP sparks confusion over claim Scotland will receive £21m
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
UBI could be trialled as a pilot in Scotland
SNP MP Douglas Chapman who represents West Fife backed calls for the scheme after submitting a written question to the Department for Work and Pensions. It revealed that £1 million worth of Universal Credit advance payments were issued in his constituency between March 1 and June 16, 2,310 amid signs of increasing unemployment due to COVID-19. He added to The Courier: “The Scottish Government currently does not have the power to implement one. “The UK Government needs to either transfer the powers to Holyrood or introduce the system nationwide to make sure everyone has a guaranteed income and no one is left behind by this crisis.” DON'T MISS:
Ally urges Sturgeon to stand down SNP in next Scottish election [REVEAL]
Sturgeon ordered to set out Scottish independence plan or ‘f**k off' [JUST IN]
John Curtice dismantles SNP independence plans despite support [INSIGHT]
Working age Scots could soon be given £11,000 a year
However, Holyrood does not have the powers to introduce a universal basic income on its own because the majority of welfare and tax responsibilities are still reserved to Westminster. Mr Higgins continued: "We're faced with an unprecedented challenge, and the biggest issue we're facing is the levels of unemployment. "And I think to be distracted by universal basic income now, at a time when actually it would be very expensive and it would detract from the focus on unemployment, I think it's just not the right time." In response to the concerns, a Department for Work and Pensions spokesman said that Scotland had significant “welfare powers and can top-up existing benefits, pay discretionary payments and create entirely new benefits altogether.”
Holyrood however doesn't have the power for UBI


thedailyexpress--2020-07-18--EU leaders stun Brussels in Brexit revolt after members refuse to fund no deal crisis plan

Brussels has demanded EU countries fund a €5 billion Brexit reserve fund to protect countries most at risk of economic turmoil after the UK leaves the bloc .
However , according to RTE , Sweden has voiced fierce opposition to the plans at the European Union summit in Brussels this weekend .
Europe Editor Tony Connelly said that EU member-states are furious at the additional funding demand because `` Brexit has nothing to do with the pandemic '' .
Connelly explained : `` In order to placate countries like Ireland , Charles Michel introduced this idea of a Brexit reserve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Europe was going to refit its economy for a post-pandemic world , you have to take into asymmetric shocks like Brexit that will affect how economies will emerge from the pandemic .
`` There is a figure of 5bn in there .
But , I understand that not everyone is happy with this idea .
`` The Swedes in particular have been muttering about why Brexit should be part of this recovery fund . ''
JUST IN : Angela Merkel 's panic-stricken warning on EU ’ s post-Brexit future He continued : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do with the impact of pandemic but it is on the table and it 's for the European Commission to work out how to allocate the Brexit money around the EU .
`` Would it be allocated by the fall in trade flows from the UK or a drop in GDP ? ''
He added the €5 billion fund for countries and sectors hit by Brexit to a draft plan for the European Union ’ s next budget and recovery package .
At the time , Mr Michel said : `` Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that is why we propose a Brexit reserve of five billion euros `` Brexit with or without an agreement on future ties will have consequences in Europe for the member states and that 's why I think it 's necessary to ask the commission to prepare for a needs assessment by November 2021 . ''
Belgium and Ireland in particular will benefit from the Brexit crisis fund , citing that they would be disproportionately affected by Brexit as close trading partners of the UK .
China threat : Taiwan aims US missiles at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ian Blackford ridiculed in Commons backlash [ VIDEO ] Lockdown POLL : Are you happy to return to the office ?
VOTE [ POLL ]

Brexit: EU reluctant over inclusion in recovery fund says expert
Brussels has demanded EU countries fund a €5 billion Brexit reserve fund to protect countries most at risk of economic turmoil after the UK leaves the bloc. However, according to RTE, Sweden has voiced fierce opposition to the plans at the European Union summit in Brussels this weekend. Europe Editor Tony Connelly said that EU member-states are furious at the additional funding demand because "Brexit has nothing to do with the pandemic".
Trending
Connelly explained: "In order to placate countries like Ireland, Charles Michel introduced this idea of a Brexit reserve fund. "The idea was if Europe was going to refit its economy for a post-pandemic world, you have to take into asymmetric shocks like Brexit that will affect how economies will emerge from the pandemic. "There is a figure of 5bn in there. But, I understand that not everyone is happy with this idea. "The Swedes in particular have been muttering about why Brexit should be part of this recovery fund." JUST IN: Angela Merkel's panic-stricken warning on EU’s post-Brexit future
Brussels has demanded EU countries fund a €5 billion Brexit reserve fund
Europe Editor Tony Connelly said that EU member-states are furious at the additional funding demand because "Brexit has nothing to do with the pandemic"
He continued: "In their view, Brexit has nothing to do with the impact of pandemic but it is on the table and it's for the European Commission to work out how to allocate the Brexit money around the EU. "Would it be allocated by the fall in trade flows from the UK or a drop in GDP?" European Council President Charles Michel announced the Brexit reserve fund proposal in June. He added the €5 billion fund for countries and sectors hit by Brexit to a draft plan for the European Union’s next budget and recovery package.
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Belgium and Ireland in particular will benefit from the Brexit crisis fund
Brexit: UK ‘fell into EU’s trap’ with Theresa May says Hewertson
At the time, Mr Michel said: "Brexit is challenging for all of us and that is why we propose a Brexit reserve of five billion euros "Brexit with or without an agreement on future ties will have consequences in Europe for the member states and that's why I think it's necessary to ask the commission to prepare for a needs assessment by November 2021." Belgium and Ireland in particular will benefit from the Brexit crisis fund, citing that they would be disproportionately affected by Brexit as close trading partners of the UK. DON'T MISS: China threat: Taiwan aims US missiles at Beijing [VIDEO]
SNP humiliated: Ian Blackford ridiculed in Commons backlash [VIDEO]
Lockdown POLL: Are you happy to return to the office? VOTE [POLL]
The summit in Brussels is the the first face-to-face talks of the 27 European Union heads since lockdowns took hold in March


thedailyexpress--2020-07-18--SNP humiliated: Ian Blackford ridiculed in Commons backlash after he refuses to sit down

We will use your email address only for sending you newsletters .
Please see our Privacy Notice for details of your data protection rights .
Sign up fornow and never miss the top politics stories again .
The SNP 's Ian Blackford was called out for his `` extremely rude '' conduct in the House of Commons this week , after he defied a Speaker 's orders to sit down and stop talking .
MPs responded to the outrageous refusal to sit down by shouting down the SNP 's Westminster leader , yelling `` sit down '' .
When Ian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` Scotland 's voice will be heard . ''
The shocking moment came when Mr Blackford intervened on his colleague Pete Wishart to raise concerns on the Government 's approach to devolution following Brexit .
He told the Commons : `` Devolution has only been around for 20 years - and we are proud of our Parliament .
`` But the Government is setting up an unelected body that will determine whether or not the acts of the Scottish Parliament are competent . ''
However , his speech was far longer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ speaker to interrupt , shouting `` order '' .
JUST IN : Brexit battle : Sturgeon pledges to defy Boris Johnson ’ s new law

Ian Blackford labelled ‘extremely rude’ by Rosie Winterton
The SNP's Ian Blackford was called out for his "extremely rude" conduct in the House of Commons this week, after he defied a Speaker's orders to sit down and stop talking. MPs responded to the outrageous refusal to sit down by shouting down the SNP's Westminster leader, yelling "sit down". When Ian Blackford refused to stop talking, he said: "Scotland's voice will be heard."
Trending
The shocking moment came when Mr Blackford intervened on his colleague Pete Wishart to raise concerns on the Government's approach to devolution following Brexit. He told the Commons: "Devolution has only been around for 20 years - and we are proud of our Parliament. "But the Government is setting up an unelected body that will determine whether or not the acts of the Scottish Parliament are competent." However, his speech was far longer than MPs expected, prompting the deputy speaker to interrupt, shouting "order". JUST IN: Brexit battle: Sturgeon pledges to defy Boris Johnson’s new law
The SNP's Ian Blackford was called out for his "extremely rude" conduct in the House of Commons
Dame Rosie Winterton called on Pete Wishart to resume his speech, telling Mr Blackford: "It's quite a long intervention"
Dame Rosie Winterton called on Pete Wishart to resume his speech, telling Mr Blackford: "It's quite a long intervention." However, Mr Blackford disobeyed the deputy speaker and continued speaking, saying: "So, Madam Deputy Speaker, this is the most crucial attack on devolution. "It is right knowing what we do that we raise the issue properly." This prompted outrage from the Tory benches while Dame Rosie urged him to stop.
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Blackford has repeatedly railed against the UK Government's post-Brexit plans to bring new powers to Scotland
Ian Blackford scolded by Evans following commons outburst
Shouts of "sit down" could be heard from the Tory benches among other heckles


thedailyexpress--2020-07-18--Boris Johnson's £3million coronavirus plan – Huge cash injection to NHS this winter

The Prime Minister said the Health Service would face a double-fight later this year as it grapples with the “ usual winter pressures ” as well as Covid-19 .
He said the funds are available immediately to keep the temporary Nightingale hospitals running until next Spring and secure private hospital beds for NHS patients with serious cases of the infection .
“ It is possible that the virus will be more virulent in the winter months – and it is certain that the NHS will face the usual , annual winter pressures , ” he said .
Pointing out the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prepare the NHS for winter he said that there are now 30,000 ventilators available to patients in the UK .
“ We have substantially increased the pipeline of personal protective equipment for the NHS and social care - constituting over 30 billion items of PPE over the course of the pandemic , ” the PM said .
“ We will be rolling out the biggest ever flu vaccination programme in the history of the UK .
“ And we will also of course give the NHS the resources it needs.
” As well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NHS in England , Mr Johnson confirmed that Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland will also receive additional funds .
“ This will allow the NHS to continue to use the extra hospital capacity acquired from the independent sector and also to maintain the Nightingale hospitals until the end of March , ” he said .
“ This new funding comes on top of the additional £30 billion of funding for health and social care that we have already announced this year.
” Mr Johnson ’ s cash injection for the NHS in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clinics can continue to carry out routine medical treatments even if the rate of coronavirus infections rises again during colder weather .
The flu vaccine is currently free to those deemed most at risk , including pregnant women , people aged over 65 , carers and primary school children , with health chiefs due to set out expanded eligibility criteria shortly .
The Government is also promising extra funds for the NHS ’ s enhanced discharge arrangements to ensure patients can be quickly and safely discharged from hospitals and to free up beds @ @ @ @

Boris Johnson confirms £3bn NHS funding to ‘plan for the worst’
The Prime Minister said the Health Service would face a double-fight later this year as it grapples with the “usual winter pressures” as well as Covid-19. He said the funds are available immediately to keep the temporary Nightingale hospitals running until next Spring and secure private hospital beds for NHS patients with serious cases of the infection.
“It is possible that the virus will be more virulent in the winter months – and it is certain that the NHS will face the usual, annual winter pressures,” he said.
Pointing out the steps that have already been taken to prepare the NHS for winter he said that there are now 30,000 ventilators available to patients in the UK. “We have substantially increased the pipeline of personal protective equipment for the NHS and social care - constituting over 30 billion items of PPE over the course of the pandemic,” the PM said. “We will be rolling out the biggest ever flu vaccination programme in the history of the UK.
Boris Johnson's £3million coronavirus plan
Boris Johnson has unveiled a £3bn cash injection to help the NHS in the battle against the disease
“And we will also of course give the NHS the resources it needs.” As well as £3 billion of funding to the NHS in England, Mr Johnson confirmed that Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will also receive additional funds. “This will allow the NHS to continue to use the extra hospital capacity acquired from the independent sector and also to maintain the Nightingale hospitals until the end of March,” he said. “This new funding comes on top of the additional £30 billion of funding for health and social care that we have already announced this year.”
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info


thedailyexpress--2020-07-18--Lockdown Part TWO coming – Chris Whitty sounds coronavirus warning

His grim prediction was in stark contrast to Boris Johnson ’ s optimistic plans to try and get the country back to normal by Christmas .
In a further sign of a simmering rift between the PM and his top advisers , both Sir Patrick and chief medical officer , Professor Chris Whitty , said the coronavirus challenges in the UK will be “ very much greater ” in the winter .
The Prime Minister said he is aiming for life in the UK to return to something close to normal by December .
But he warned the country must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the best ” as he announced £3 billion of extra NHS funding and unveiled new “ lightning lockdown ” powers to enable councils to pounce on local outbreaks .
Just hours later Sir Patrick told members of the House of Lords Science and Technology committee : “ As you release measures it is inevitable as you get more contacts that you will see more cases .
“ Come winter , the challenges will be very much greater and of course there is a risk that this could need national measures.
” Professor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ return as colder weather sets in , explaining people may have “ a group of things you could do for three seasons of the year but it may be that in winter this is more difficult ” .
Apparent tensions surfaced on Thursday when Sir Patrick pointedly told MPs there was “ absolutely no reason ” to change government work-from-home guidance .
His intervention came as Mr Johnson was putting the finishing touches to his new coronavirus roadmap , including urging workers to return to their offices and factories .
However , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tone on the issue , Mr Johnson stopped short of ordering workers to return , instead putting the onus on employers to make the call .
Sir Patrick and Prof Whitty were both notably absent from yesterday 's Downing Street press conference , despite the fact they have flanked the PM at briefings throughout the pandemic , in a move which will ignite speculation of a worsening split between Mr Johnson and his experts .
Explaining that winter is the exact time not to lift lockdown rules , chief medical officer Professor Whitty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ probably - and this is a very common view along doctors and scientists who looked at this - a group of things you could do , probably , for three seasons of the year but it may be that in winter this is more difficult because winter so benefits respiratory viruses - that 's why we get the flus and the colds and coughs in winter .
“ So we do have to accept we may be able to do things for a period ; it 's possible that in winter we may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think we just have to be honest about that and the Prime Minister , I think , made that very clear this morning.
” Sir Patrick added : “ As you release measures it is inevitable as you get more contacts that you will see more cases .
That 's what happens .
“ And the model that you can see around the world , and here , is that the most likely thing is that you get an increase in local outbreaks - and those outbreaks may be very local - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and deal with in a way that 's proportionate to whatever 's happened , so you do n't end up with widespread lockdowns or measures to try and deal with that across the whole of society when in fact the problem 's local .
“ Come winter , the challenges will be very much greater and of course there is a risk that this could need national measures as well .
”

Patrick Vallance warns of further ‘national measures’ in winter
His grim prediction was in stark contrast to Boris Johnson’s optimistic plans to try and get the country back to normal by Christmas. In a further sign of a simmering rift between the PM and his top advisers, both Sir Patrick and chief medical officer, Professor Chris Whitty, said the coronavirus challenges in the UK will be “very much greater” in the winter.
The Prime Minister said he is aiming for life in the UK to return to something close to normal by December. But he warned the country must “plan for the worst but hope for the best” as he announced £3 billion of extra NHS funding and unveiled new “lightning lockdown” powers to enable councils to pounce on local outbreaks. Just hours later Sir Patrick told members of the House of Lords Science and Technology committee: “As you release measures it is inevitable as you get more contacts that you will see more cases. “Come winter, the challenges will be very much greater and of course there is a risk that this could need national measures.” Professor Whitty, also hinted lockdown rules might return as colder weather sets in, explaining people may have “a group of things you could do for three seasons of the year but it may be that in winter this is more difficult”.
Chris Whitty has issued a coronavirus warning
Sir Patrick Vallance yesterday warned that Britain could need another national lockdown this winter
Apparent tensions surfaced on Thursday when Sir Patrick pointedly told MPs there was “absolutely no reason” to change government work-from-home guidance. His intervention came as Mr Johnson was putting the finishing touches to his new coronavirus roadmap, including urging workers to return to their offices and factories. However, in a significant softening of the PM's tone on the issue, Mr Johnson stopped short of ordering workers to return, instead putting the onus on employers to make the call. Sir Patrick and Prof Whitty were both notably absent from yesterday's Downing Street press conference, despite the fact they have flanked the PM at briefings throughout the pandemic, in a move which will ignite speculation of a worsening split between Mr Johnson and his experts.
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info


thedailyexpress--2020-07-18--Brexit LIVE: Boris to announce shock plan to REWARD Remainers including Philip Hammond

Former chancellors Mr Hammond and Mr Clarke and ex-culture minister Mr Vaizey had the Tory whip withdrawn after attempting to block Mr Johnson ’ s efforts to reach an agreement with the EU .
But the list also includes a string of Brexit supporters including former England cricketer Sir Ian Botham , according to The Times .
And it was reported that there will be peerages for ex—Labour MPs Frank Field and Gisela Stuart who both supported Brexit in the 2016 referendum .
Former Labour MPs Ian Austin and John Woodcock , who backed Remain but supported Mr Johnson 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to support Jeremy Corbyn , are also said to be on the list .
1.40pm update : SNP MP furious Brexiteers to be honoured but Bercow snubbed SNP MP Pete Wishart flew off the handle over reports that Boris Johnson plans to award peerages to `` Brexit loyalists '' despite still not offering one to former Commons Speaker John Bercow .
Referring to former England cricketer Sir Ian Botham , Mr Wishart told Sky News : `` This is just the most absurd and ridiculous political institution anywhere in the world .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whole raft of Brexiteers appointed by the Prime Minister to have a part in our legislature .
`` These people can now make laws , make amendments and initiate legislation .
What 's his qualification ?
He 's a cricketer who supported Brexit .
It 's absolutely absurd . ''
He continued : `` Let 's look at two candidates for the House of Lords : Ian Botham , Brexiteer and cricketer , and John Bercow , former Speaker of the House of Commons with something like 25 years political experience .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is more qualified to have a role in deciding the laws of this country ?
Who is more qualified ?
`` But it 's not up to anybody to decide that , it 's should be up to an electorate .
It 's actually up to the PM now .
`` He will appoint his donors , his cronies , his friends .
Those people that he owes favours to .
It has to stop , enough is enough . ''
12.45pm update : Goodbye Project Fear : Carney 's £5.5m home for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bank of England Governor Mark Carney - regarded by many Brexiteers as the embodiment of Project Fear - has quit Britain and returned to his native Canada after seven years - with the luxury north London home in which he and his family have been living on the market for an eye-watering £5.5million .
Mr Carney , who holds Canadian , British and Irish citizenship , had been renting the property for £3,500 a week .
Wife Diana had previously raised the subject of expensive London homes on Twitter - but the couple @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a five-bedroom property in West Hampstead , before relocating to an eight-bedroom house in South Hampstead five years ago .
Mr Carney was lured from his job at the Bank of Canada in 2013 for an annual salary of £624,000 , along with a housing allowance of £250,000 a year .
Former Brexit Party MEP Rupert Lowe has warned Boris Johnson has “ got this so wrong ” following reports former chancellor Philip Hammond is in line for a peerage .
He tweeted : “ Giving Philip Hammond a peerage is an utter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their own !
The man spent years frustrating Brexit and almost succeeded .
Boris has got this so wrong .
“ Hammond was a failure .
In my view , failures should not be rewarded with peerages.
” 10.45am update : Fishing chief issues urgent warning to Barnier as he attacks EU 's arrogance in trade talks A fishing chief has warned of the staggering arrogance of members of the European Commission , saying by the time they realise how important sovereignty is to Britons it may be `` too late '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fishermen 's Association , said the EU has time and again `` failed to appreciate what matters to the UK '' when it comes to voters ' reasons for wanting out of the bloc and he warned Boris Johnson against any sort of `` sellout '' for fishermen .
As fishing continues to be one of the main sticking points in talks , Mr Collins said Michel Barnier should wake up to the fact that regaining rights over British waters is central to the Brexit cause .
10am update : Boris should ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , expert claims Boris Jhnson should have followed through with his threat to leave the EU with a no-deal Brexit last OCtober , an expert has claimed .
Peter MacSwiney , chairman of Agency Sector Management , said : “ In all honesty , we would ’ ve been better off if we had taken a no deal Brexit last October .
By now , we would ’ ve have sorted all the problems .
“ The Northern Ireland Protocol would not be in place .
We 'd probably be most of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There are going to be problems and there were problems then .
But now we ’ d be nine months further down the line and things would ’ ve settled down .
“ I think a lot of businesses will find themselves somewhere they ’ re not prepared to be .
They won ’ t know how to get out of it.
” EU leaders failed to make progress in negotiations on a post-coronavirus stimulus plan after meeting for their first face-to-face summit in five months .
Speaking ahead of the summit , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` The stakes could n't be higher .
The whole world is watching us . ''
The meeting between the 27 EU leaders is due to continue today .
Boris Johnson ’ s chief negotiator hopes to overcome `` significant differences '' with the European Union next week when Brexit talks restart in London .
David Frost is understood to be eyeing his first breakthrough in the future relationship negotiations after holding talks with his EU counterpart Michel Barnier in Brussels .
The pair agreed to put added emphasis on Britain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU as a potential landing zone for an agreement emerged .
The two sides will hold four separate sessions on “ law enforcement and judicial cooperation ” as the Capital hosts its first ever round of negotiations with Brussels .
As part of the four-day talks , UK and EU officials will also discuss the bloc ’ s demands for regulatory level-playing and access to Britain ’ s fishing grounds .
7.30am update : Next round of post-Brexit talks in London The latest round of post-Brexit trade talks between the UK and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week .
Boris Johnson has insisted he will not allow the discussions to drag on into the autumn .
If the two sides are unable to strike an agreement by the end of the transition period on December 31 2020 it will mean Britain leaving the single market and the customs union without any agreement on future access .

Von der Leyen says 'stakes couldn't be higher' at EU summit
The Prime Minister is set to announce 30 new peers later this month to mark his first year in Downing Street. The list is said to include arch-Remainers Philip Hammond, Ken Clarke and Ed Vaizey in a bid to heal divisions in the Conservative Party. THIS BLOG IS NOW CLOSED. Click HERE for your latest Brexit updates
Former chancellors Mr Hammond and Mr Clarke and ex-culture minister Mr Vaizey had the Tory whip withdrawn after attempting to block Mr Johnson’s efforts to reach a Brexit agreement with the EU. The list also includes a string of Brexit supporters including former England cricketer Sir Ian Botham, according to The Times. And it was reported that there will be peerages for ex—Labour MPs Frank Field and Gisela Stuart who both supported Brexit in the 2016 referendum. Former Labour MPs Ian Austin and John Woodcock, who backed Remain but supported Mr Johnson's Brexit deal and urged Labour voters not to support Jeremy Corbyn, are also said to be on the list. FOLLOW BELOW FOR LIVE BREXIT UPDATES:
Boris Johnson is set to reward three Remainers with life peerages, according to reports
Sunday, July 19 9.41am update: THIS BLOG IS NOW CLOSED. Click HERE for your latest Brexit updates
02:10am update: Cornwall calls for £700m to cover loss of EU funding Cornwall Council has asked the Government for another £700 million in funding to replace lost EU funding over the next decade. In 1999 Cornwall was granted Objective One status by Brussels entitling it to extra funding due to economic deprivation. Explaining the demand for extra funding Kate Kennally, council chief executive, said: "The amount is the same as what Cornwall Council has been calling for in terms of the equivalent of what Cornwall would have received from the EU and as the level of funds to catch up with other parts of the country as part of the levelling up agenda. "We are calling for it as a single pot to prevent us having to continually bid for separate pots. We want to have the funding in a single pot that will be managed by organisations here in Cornwall." 00:15am update: Liam Fox says Brexit won't derail his WTO bid Liam Fox, the former Secretary of State for International Trade, has insisted Brexit won't stop his campaign to become the first British head of the World Trade Organisation (WTO). Mr Fox, a Brexit backing Scottish Tory MP, is one of eight candidates bidding to replace Brazilian Roberto Azevedo as WTO chief. He claimed not every country "sees every issue through the Brexit prism". Britain has been a WTO member since its founder but has only sat independently since it left the EU earlier this year. James Bickerton takes over live reporting from Laura O'Callaghan
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Saturday, July 18
10.48pm update: Nicola Sturgeon savaged for sacrificing Brexit benefits in plot for independent Scotland Nicola Sturgeon may be willing to trade Scottish Brexit benefits in exchange for her dream of independence, a former MEP has claimed. Brexiteer and former Brexit Party MEP, Ben Habib, attacked Ms Sturgeon for her appraoch to the Scottish independence cause. During an interview with Express.co.uk, Mr Habib claimed Nicola Sturgeon would have to meet three crucial requirements before the EU would consider Scotland's membership. He argued that the First Minister would be willing to sacrifice access to Scottish fishing waters and willing to pay massive sums into the EU. Mr Habib said: "There are three instant requirements the EU would have if they were to entertain any application from Scotland. "The first would be that they would require Scotland to be a net contributor to the EU. "I think the Scots might find that unpalatable." 9.51pm update: Brexit farce: How David Beckham claimed 'Man Utd won more trophies because of EU' David Beckham risked the wrath of Leave voters during the Brexit debate as he suggested Manchester United were more successful because Britain was in the EU, unearthed reports reveal. The former England captain risked a backlash as he suggested Britain’s EU membership contributed to his sporting success. For the full story click here.
Boris Johnson is set to reward Brexiteers with peerages
8.40pm update: EU nations deadlocked at tense coronavirus recovery summit A stand-off between EU leaders at a summit in Brussels on Saturday threatened to derail plans for a massive stimulus fund to breathe life into their coronavirus-hammered economies. Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte issued a warning in a video on Facebook as the 27 European Union leaders neared the end of a second day of talks. He said: "We are in an impasse now. "It is more complex than what was expected. "There are many issues that remain unresolved.'' With the pandemic dealing Europe its worst economic shock since World War II, leaders gathered on Friday to haggle over a proposed €750 billion recovery fund and a 2021-27 EU budget of more than €1 trillion. 7.27pm update: Brexiteers hailed as 'well-deserving' peerage recipients Pro-Brexit think-thank the Bruges Group has congratulated Brexiteers Gisela Stuart and Frank Field on their peerages. The Bruges Group tweeted: "Gisela Stuart and Frank Field are two well-deserving recipients of peerages. "In particular, Gisela’s dedication to Brexit and democracy has been absolute - even when it took her from the Labour backbenches to campaigning in last year’s GE for Boris. "Congratulations both." 6.50pm update: EU superstate: All members should unite and form ‘one economic nation’ says expert EU states should go further than the single market and merge together to create a Single Economic Territory, an expert has said. Fabian Zuleeg, chief executive of the European Policy Centre said that COVID-19 triggered “unprecedented” government interventions across the EU. Mr Zuleeg stressed that because of this, it was making the Single Market vulnerable. For the full story click here.
Sir Ian Botham has earned a peerage for his Brexit campaigning
5.38pm update: 'Enough's enough!' - Ian Botham on the EU Sir Ian Botham looks set to be given a peerage in recognition of his support for Brexit - and archive reports reveal how the England cricket legend hit out at Remainers for failing to accept the result of the 2016 referendum. Sir Ian publicly supported the Brexit campaign and appeared alongside Mr Johnson before the referendum four years ago. Vowing to back Leave “with a straight bat” he claimed “enough’s enough” when probed about the EU. He appeared at a County Durham event with Mr Johnson and said: "I have been lucky enough to grow up in a wonderful country, a country that has always been able to look after itself." For the full story click here. 4.54pm update: Six in 10 firms have not made any no-deal preparations British firms are now less prepared for a no-deal Brexit than they were this time last year, a new report has said. The warning for ministers come from the Institute for Government thinktank. It cites official data suggesting that 61 percent of businesses have made no preparations at all for December 31 - when the Brexit transition period comes to a close. 3.44pm update: US ambassador says EU criticism of Poland 'overblown' The US ambassador to Poland said the European Union's criticism of Poland's adherence to democracy is "overblown", as Warsaw faces cuts to EU budget funds over its judiciary reforms. Since coming to power in 2015, Poland's ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party has faced criticism from the EU over its overhaul of its judiciary system, with Brussels accusing Poland of violating EU laws. As its relationship with the EU has faltered, PiS has focused on building strong ties with the United States, especially since President Donald Trump came to power in 2016. US ambassador to Poland Georgette Mosbacher said: "If you're asking me...do I think that a lot of the attacks on Poland about democratic values is overblown, my answer is yes, I do." The EU is struggling to respond to what many in western Europe see as creeping authoritarianism in the eastern wing of the bloc, especially Poland, Hungary and Romania.
Cornwall Council is calling on the Government to pump cash into the region to soften the Brexit blow
3.18pm update: Cornwall calls for £700m in funding to soften blow of Brexit Cornwall, which voted for Brexit, has called on the Conservative Government to pump £700 million into its local economy to fill the gap left by the European Union's funding post-Brexit. Cornwall Council is petitioning the Government for the money which would cover the loss the popular tourist region is set to suffer over the next 10 years due to the impact of Brexit. The council's chief executive Kate Kennally said: "The amount is the same as what Cornwall Council has been calling for in terms of the equivalent of what Cornwall would have received from the EU and as the level of funds to catch up with other parts of the country as part of the levelling up agenda. "We are calling for it as a single pot to prevent us having to continually bid for separate pots. "We want to have the funding in a single pot that will be managed by organisations here in Cornwall." Laura O'Callaghan takes over the blog from Katie Harris. 2.50pm update: Norway rushes to sign post-Brexit trade deal with UK Boris Johnson is on track for an early trade victory after Norway moved to sign an ambitious and free post-Brexit deal by the end of this year. Norway, not part of the EU and reliant on Britain as its single largest trading partner, said it is keen to strike an “ambitious and comprehensive” free trade agreement by the end of the transition period on December 31. Oslo is keen for Norwegian companies to have at least as much access to the UK market as EU companies. Trade and Industry Minister Iselin Nybø said: “We want to negotiate a comprehensive free trade agreement with the British, in which current trade is continued as much as possible. “This is about goods and services that cross our borders every year worth billions of krone. “Unfortunately, the agreement will not be able to replace the European Economic Area (EEA) agreement, and business will have to prepare to face new trade barriers when the UK leaves the single market.” 2.30pm update: Do you agree with Boris giving honours to Remainers to heal Tory divide? - Poll Boris Johnson is set to give three Remainers peerages in a bid to heal divisions in the Conservative Party - but do you agree with the Prime Minister handing out honours to Tories who tried to block Brexit? Express.co.uk is asking readers if you agree with the PM rewarding Tory Remainers with peerages to heal Tory divisions. Former chancellors Philip Hammond, Ken Clarke and ex-culture minister Ed Vaizey are said to be in line for peerages despite their attempts to frustrate Brexit. Click here to cast your vote in our poll.
1.40pm update: SNP MP furious Brexiteers to be honoured - but Bercow snubbed SNP MP Pete Wishart flew off the handle over reports that Boris Johnson plans to award peerages to "Brexit loyalists" despite still not offering one to former Commons Speaker John Bercow. Referring to former England cricketer Sir Ian Botham, Mr Wishart told Sky News: "This is just the most absurd and ridiculous political institution anywhere in the world. "We're going to be having a whole raft of Brexiteers appointed by the Prime Minister to have a part in our legislature. "These people can now make laws, make amendments and initiate legislation. What's his qualification? He's a cricketer who supported Brexit. It's absolutely absurd." He continued: "Let's look at two candidates for the House of Lords: Ian Botham, Brexiteer and cricketer, and John Bercow, former Speaker of the House of Commons with something like 25 years political experience. "I'd ask your listeners: who is more qualified to have a role in deciding the laws of this country? Who is more qualified? "But it's not up to anybody to decide that, it's should be up to an electorate. It's actually up to the PM now. "He will appoint his donors, his cronies, his friends. Those people that he owes favours to. It has to stop, enough is enough." 12.45pm update: Goodbye Project Fear: Carney's £5.5m home for sale as he returns to Canada Former Bank of England Governor Mark Carney - regarded by many Brexiteers as the embodiment of Project Fear - has quit Britain and returned to his native Canada after seven years - with the luxury north London home in which he and his family have been living on the market for an eye-watering £5.5million. Mr Carney, who holds Canadian, British and Irish citizenship, had been renting the property for £3,500 a week. Wife Diana had previously raised the subject of expensive London homes on Twitter - but the couple and their five daughters subsequently moved into a five-bedroom property in West Hampstead, before relocating to an eight-bedroom house in South Hampstead five years ago. Mr Carney was lured from his job at the Bank of Canada in 2013 for an annual salary of £624,000, along with a housing allowance of £250,000 a year.
Remainers Ken Clarke (left) and Philip Hammond (right) are set to receive peerages, according to reports
12pm update: Ex-MEP fumes over Hammond peerage reports Former Brexit Party MEP Rupert Lowe has warned Boris Johnson has “got this so wrong” following reports former chancellor Philip Hammond is in line for a peerage. He tweeted: “Giving Philip Hammond a peerage is an utter disgrace. “The establishment looks after their own! The man spent years frustrating Brexit and almost succeeded. Boris has got this so wrong. “Hammond was a failure. In my view, failures should not be rewarded with peerages.” 10.45am update: Fishing chief issues urgent warning to Barnier as he attacks EU's arrogance in trade talks A fishing chief has warned of the staggering arrogance of members of the European Commission, saying by the time they realise how important sovereignty is to Britons it may be "too late". Simon Collins, executive officer of Shetland Fishermen's Association, said the EU has time and again "failed to appreciate what matters to the UK" when it comes to voters' reasons for wanting out of the bloc and he warned Boris Johnson against any sort of "sellout" for fishermen. As fishing continues to be one of the main sticking points in talks, Mr Collins said Michel Barnier should wake up to the fact that regaining rights over British waters is central to the Brexit cause.
Boris Johnson’s chief negotiator hopes to overcome "significant differences" with the European Union next week when Brexit talks restart in London
EU 'flaws' have been exposed by COVID-19 claims Hewertson
10am update: Boris should’ve gambled on no deal last year, expert claims Boris Johnson should have followed through with his threat to leave the EU with a no-deal Brexit last OCtober, an expert has claimed. Peter MacSwiney, chairman of Agency Sector Management, said: “In all honesty, we would’ve been better off if we had taken a no deal Brexit last October. By now, we would’ve have sorted all the problems. “The Northern Ireland Protocol would not be in place. We'd probably be most of the way to resolving the issues. “There are going to be problems and there were problems then. But now we’d be nine months further down the line and things would’ve settled down. “I think a lot of businesses will find themselves somewhere they’re not prepared to be. They won’t know how to get out of it.” 9am update: EU leaders deadlocked over coronavirus recovery plan EU leaders failed to make progress in negotiations on a post-coronavirus stimulus plan after meeting for their first face-to-face summit in five months. Speaking ahead of the summit, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said: "The stakes couldn't be higher. The whole world is watching us." The meeting between the 27 EU leaders is due to continue today.
Brexit timeline
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-07-18--Boris Johnson's unforgettable first year at Number 10 – from Brexit to intensive care

With his bulldog spirit and irrepressible good humour , Mr Johnson has epitomised the country ’ s collective effort against the spread of the epidemic .
As he celebrates his one-year anniversary in the job on July 24 he will do so in the knowledge that he has packed more into the last 365 days than most before him .
Having grasped the reigns following Theresa May ’ s resignation last year the former Home Secretary immediately set about securing a Brexit deal with Brussels .
He duly did this in October but not before dramatically asking the Queen to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Supreme Court challenge to the decision - which prompted a hasty dash back from New York .
Then came December ’ s general election in which Mr Johnson ’ s Conservative Party crushed Labour in a devastating landslide victory .
If 2019 wasn ’ t tumultuous enough , his second six months as PM have probably topped the first .
Brexit Day was swiftly celebrated on January 31 but all the while the menace of coronavirus was beginning to race across the globe .
The good news kept coming as he announced his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But as Covid-19 began to take a grip on the UK Mr Johnson took the unprecedented step to place the UK into Lockdown on March 23 to combat the spread of the deadly disease .
Less than two weeks later the PM himself was fighting for his life in intensive care having been struck down with the virus himself .
Since leaving hospital in April Mr Johnson has carefully guided Britain through and out of the lockdown and preparing the country for the economic , public health and diplomatic battles ahead .
To @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of his son Wilfred just 10 weeks ago .

Boris Johnson suggests coronavirus affected his eyesight
With his bulldog spirit and irrepressible good humour, Mr Johnson has epitomised the country’s collective effort against the spread of the epidemic. As he celebrates his one-year anniversary in the job on July 24 he will do so in the knowledge that he has packed more into the last 365 days than most before him.
Having grasped the reigns following Theresa May’s resignation last year the former Home Secretary immediately set about securing a Brexit deal with Brussels. He duly did this in October but not before dramatically asking the Queen to prorogue parliament and then losing an historic Supreme Court challenge to the decision - which prompted a hasty dash back from New York. Then came December’s general election in which Mr Johnson’s Conservative Party crushed Labour in a devastating landslide victory. If 2019 wasn’t tumultuous enough, his second six months as PM have probably topped the first.
Brexit Day was swiftly celebrated on January 31 but all the while the menace of coronavirus was beginning to race across the globe.
Boris Johnson's unforgettable first year at Number 10
Brexit Day was celebrated on January 31
The good news kept coming as he announced his engagement to Carrie Symonds in February. But as Covid-19 began to take a grip on the UK Mr Johnson took the unprecedented step to place the UK into Lockdown on March 23 to combat the spread of the deadly disease. Less than two weeks later the PM himself was fighting for his life in intensive care having been struck down with the virus himself. Since leaving hospital in April Mr Johnson has carefully guided Britain through and out of the lockdown and preparing the country for the economic, public health and diplomatic battles ahead. To top it all he welcomed the birth of his son Wilfred just 10 weeks ago. What a year!