thedailyexpress--2020-05-16--Brexiteer MP accuses EU of dragging out trade talks in bid to 'wear UK down'

The Conservative MP warned against extending the end of 2020 deadline for a free trade agreement .
And she hit out at the EU for delaying and procrastinating to get what they want in negotiations .
Ms Jenkyns told Express.co.uk : “ This is about keeping our promises to the British people and focusing minds in the negotiations .
“ With the technology available it is easy to have meetings and continue with the negotiations .
“ This is a typical tactic of the European Union to delay and procrastinate , to keep it going for along as possible so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down and get what they want .
“ We have left the European Union , if the EU want a free trade deal they need to act in a grown up businesslike fashion , our country is ready to trade across the world.
” Ms Jenkyns added that sticking to the deadline for a deal remains important despite the coronavirus crisis .
She said : “ In every conceivable case , especially where trade is concerned , certainty is a positive and helpful thing to all sides.
” It comes after the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said “ very little ” progress had been made after the third round of talks ended on Friday .
He said the bloc ’ s insistence on including a “ set of novel and unbalanced proposals '' on the level playing field was a major obstacle .
And he said it is `` hard to understand why the EU insists on an ideological approach '' to negotiations on fishing arrangements .
Mr Frost added : `` We very much need a change in EU approach for the next round beginning on June 1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ full reaction as Brexit trade deal on brink of collapse [ INSIGHT ] Brexit news : Barnier warns trade talks on brink of collapse [ VIDEO ] 'No going back ' Economist explains key reason why Brexit is final [ ANALYSIS ] '' In order to facilitate those discussions , we intend to make public all the UK draft legal texts during next week , so that the EU 's member states and interested observers can see our approach in detail . ''
A senior UK official close to the negotiations said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU thinks that a kind of halfway house between what we 're willing to see on the so-called level playing field and what they 're willing to see '' .
The official added : `` As we 've tried to make clear from the start , there is n't a halfway house - we ca n't split the difference between areas where we control our own laws and waters , and those that we do n't . ''
The official said both sides remained `` optimistic '' a deal could be struck , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see '' how a `` pretty standard and major free trade agreement '' could be agreed quite quickly .

Brexit: Latest talks finished ‘without any progress’ says Barnier
The Conservative MP warned against extending the end of 2020 deadline for a free trade agreement. And she hit out at the EU for delaying and procrastinating to get what they want in negotiations.
Ms Jenkyns told Express.co.uk: “This is about keeping our promises to the British people and focusing minds in the negotiations. “With the technology available it is easy to have meetings and continue with the negotiations. “This is a typical tactic of the European Union to delay and procrastinate, to keep it going for along as possible so in the end they can wear us down and get what they want. “We have left the European Union, if the EU want a free trade deal they need to act in a grown up businesslike fashion, our country is ready to trade across the world.”
Andrea Jenkyns has accused the EU of dragging out post-Brexit trade talks to wear the UK down
The Conservative MP warned against extending the end of 2020 deadline for a free trade agreement
Ms Jenkyns added that sticking to the deadline for a deal remains important despite the coronavirus crisis. She said: “In every conceivable case, especially where trade is concerned, certainty is a positive and helpful thing to all sides.” It comes after the UK’s chief Brexit negotiator David Frost said “very little” progress had been made after the third round of talks ended on Friday. Mr Frost blamed the EU’s fishing and level playing field demands. READ MORE: Brexit trade row: Brussels snubs British efforts to break deadlock
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The UK’s chief Brexit negotiator David Frost said “very little” progress had been made after the third round of talks ended on Friday
Mr Frost blamed the EU’s fishing and level playing field demands
The EU’s chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier insisted the UK could "not have the best of both worlds" in a deal
"In order to facilitate those discussions, we intend to make public all the UK draft legal texts during next week, so that the EU's member states and interested observers can see our approach in detail." A senior UK official close to the negotiations said the problem "continues to be that the EU thinks that a kind of halfway house between what we're willing to see on the so-called level playing field and what they're willing to see". The official added: "As we've tried to make clear from the start, there isn't a halfway house - we can't split the difference between areas where we control our own laws and waters, and those that we don't." The official said both sides remained "optimistic" a deal could be struck, and that it was "easy to see" how a "pretty standard and major free trade agreement" could be agreed quite quickly.
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thedailyexpress--2020-05-17--Save us, Michel! Shameless arch-Remainers launch shock Brexit plot - Barnier urged to act

Both the SNP leader at Westminster Ian Blackford and the acting Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey have signed a letter to the EU 's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier to support a Brexit delay .
They told Mr Barnier there is `` significant opposition '' to the UK Government 's refusal to consider extending the timetable for talks .
They warned such a move to allow Brexi talks to take plance when `` the efforts of national governments and the European Union will not be engaged solely with dealing with the dreadful COVID-19 epidemic '' .
With the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talks are taking place between the UK and EU to determine key areas such as future trading relationships .
But with the transition period due to expire at the end of this year , Remainers fear the UK may be forced into a no-deal scenario , if an agreement can not be reached .
The letter to Mr Barnier has also been signed by Plaid Cymru MP Liz Saville Roberts , Green MP Caroline Lucas , Stephen Farry , MP from the Alliance Party , as well as fellow Northern Ireland MP Colum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Party .
They contacted Mr Barnier to highlight the `` significant opposition to the UK Government 's extreme position amongst the business community , the general public and elected representatives '' .
The opposition MPs noted the Scottish and Welsh governments both backed an extension of the transition period , along with `` the majority of political parties in the Northern Ireland Executive '' .
READ MORE : No deal Brexit more likely as UK and EU wo n't reconcile The MPs said : `` A consensus is taking shape and we hope @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` It is now in all of our common interests to agree and secure an extension to the transition period .
This will enable these detailed and defining negotiations to be conducted at a time when , we hope , the efforts of national governments and the European Union will not be engaged solely with dealing with the dreadful Covid-19 epidemic . ''
Mr Blackford said they had written to Mr Barnier because `` time is running out until we hit the hard Brexit deadline '' .
DO N'T MISS Brexit warning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to seek extension [ INSIGHT ] How Juncker suggested 'eurozone policy incompatible with democracy ' [ REVEALED ] Macron and Johnson 's Brexit spat revealed [ INFO ] He said : `` It is vital that the Tory government does the only responsible thing and accepts a two-year extension to the transition period .
`` Crashing out with a bad deal or no deal in the middle of the coronavirus crisis , would deal a double hammer blow to the economy just when we will need all the help we can get to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
But he claimed : `` It increasingly appears the Tory government is intent on taking Scotland and the UK down the path of a devastating no-deal .
That would be beyond reckless .
`` The coronavirus economic crash is the worst in living memory .
People and businesses are already struggling to get by .
The Tory government must put its responsibilities to the economy ahead of its Brexit obsession .
`` Polls consistently show that the overwhelming majority of people in Scotland and across the UK want to see an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and there is growing consensus across political parties .
It 's time for the UK Government to act . ''
But Prime Minister Boris Johnson remains defiant , with a UK Government spokesman saying `` we will not ask to extend the transition period '' .

Brexit extension 'sensible' for business says Mervyn King
Both the SNP leader at Westminster Ian Blackford and the acting Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey have signed a letter to the EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier to support a Brexit delay. They told Mr Barnier there is "significant opposition" to the UK Government's refusal to consider extending the timetable for talks. CALLING ALL PARENTS: Tell us what life is like so we can show MPs reality of lockdown - survey
They warned such a move to allow Brexi talks to take plance when "the efforts of national governments and the European Union will not be engaged solely with dealing with the dreadful COVID-19 epidemic". With the UK having formally quit the European Union, talks are taking place between the UK and EU to determine key areas such as future trading relationships. But with the transition period due to expire at the end of this year, Remainers fear the UK may be forced into a no-deal scenario, if an agreement cannot be reached.
Brexit news: Remainers have written to Michel Barnier to request a Brexit extension
Brexit news: Ian Blackford has called for a Brexit delay during the coronavirus pandemic
The letter to Mr Barnier has also been signed by Plaid Cymru MP Liz Saville Roberts, Green MP Caroline Lucas, Stephen Farry, MP from the Alliance Party, as well as fellow Northern Ireland MP Colum Eastwood of the Social Democratic and Labour Party. They contacted Mr Barnier to highlight the "significant opposition to the UK Government's extreme position amongst the business community, the general public and elected representatives". The opposition MPs noted the Scottish and Welsh governments both backed an extension of the transition period, along with "the majority of political parties in the Northern Ireland Executive". READ MORE: No deal Brexit more likely as UK and EU won't reconcile
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Brexit news: Boris Johnson has vowed he will not delay Brexit
The MPs said: "A consensus is taking shape and we hope the UK Government will soon recognise reality. "It is now in all of our common interests to agree and secure an extension to the transition period. This will enable these detailed and defining negotiations to be conducted at a time when, we hope, the efforts of national governments and the European Union will not be engaged solely with dealing with the dreadful Covid-19 epidemic." Mr Blackford said they had written to Mr Barnier because "time is running out until we hit the hard Brexit deadline". DON'T MISS
Brexit warning: EU's demands may force UK to seek extension [INSIGHT]
How Juncker suggested 'eurozone policy incompatible with democracy' [REVEALED]
Macron and Johnson's Brexit spat revealed [INFO]
Brexit news: Arch Remainers have written to Michel Barnier
Brexit talks have hit an impasse over trade and the UK/EU fishing agreement
He said: "It is vital that the Tory government does the only responsible thing and accepts a two-year extension to the transition period. "Crashing out with a bad deal or no deal in the middle of the coronavirus crisis, would deal a double hammer blow to the economy just when we will need all the help we can get to save jobs, businesses and living standards." But he claimed: "It increasingly appears the Tory government is intent on taking Scotland and the UK down the path of a devastating no-deal. That would be beyond reckless.
The five key moments that led to Brexit
"The coronavirus economic crash is the worst in living memory. People and businesses are already struggling to get by. The Tory government must put its responsibilities to the economy ahead of its Brexit obsession. "Polls consistently show that the overwhelming majority of people in Scotland and across the UK want to see an extension to the Brexit transition period - and there is growing consensus across political parties. It's time for the UK Government to act." But Prime Minister Boris Johnson remains defiant, with a UK Government spokesman saying "we will not ask to extend the transition period".
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thedailyexpress--2020-05-17--No deal Brexit more likely as UK and EU won't reconcile 'Their argument makes no sense!'

No deal Brexit could be reached in just six weeks in the next phase of the UK 's withdrawal from the EU after negotiations ended badly this week .
The bloc is fighting for the UK to continue following their rules and regulations which does n't make sense to Lord Mervyn King .
He explained people voted to leave the EU to stop following their regulations as he went on to note that there is n't an easy wait out of these negotiations .
Speaking to LBC , Lord Mervyn said : `` One of the reasons for leaving the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then decide it 's own regulations that would apply to our economy .
`` The European Union is arguing that even though we will leave the EU , we should still follow their rules and regulations in order to have a free trade agreement .
`` That is unprecedented .
There is no real parallel for that .
`` I think the arguments put up by the EU do n't make a great deal of sense .
`` At some point , I ca n't see any way in which we reconcile the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and regulations from the EU or go our own way and that will have to be resolved .
`` Once that is resolved , once one side or the other has decided that it 's going to give in a little then it should be relatively straightforward to get an agreement on a free trade deal .
`` But I ca n't see at this stage that it 's going to be easy to find a way out of the current empasse is these two positions . ''
Host Andrew Castle added : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks to go until no deal is the default position and one we 'll find ourselves in . ''
The UK and Brussels appeared far apart on agreeing a future trade arrangement after the UK 's chief negotiator said `` very little '' progress had been made in the latest round of talks .
David Frost insisted the major obstacle to agreement was the EU 's insistence on including a set of `` novel and unbalanced proposals '' regarding a level playing field on standards .
Mr Frost also said it is `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on an ideological approach '' to negotiations on fishing rights .
The EU 's chief negotiator Michel Barnier insisted that the UK could `` not have the best of both worlds '' in a deal as he said the talks failed to produce any progress on the more difficult subjects .
Brexiteer MP accuses EU of dragging out trade talks to 'wear UK down ' [ INSIGHT ] Brussel 's masterplan to 'complete monetary union ' revealed [ INTERVIEW ] SAS veteran 's simple Brexit message as Brussels ' cracks show [ COMMENT @

Brexit: EU arguments 'don't make sense' says Lord Mervyn King
No deal Brexit could be reached in just six weeks in the next phase of the UK's withdrawal from the EU after negotiations ended badly this week. The bloc is fighting for the UK to continue following their rules and regulations which doesn't make sense to Lord Mervyn King. He explained people voted to leave the EU to stop following their regulations as he went on to note that there isn't an easy wait out of these negotiations.
Speaking to LBC, Lord Mervyn said: "One of the reasons for leaving the EU would be that the UK would then decide it's own regulations that would apply to our economy. "The European Union is arguing that even though we will leave the EU, we should still follow their rules and regulations in order to have a free trade agreement. "That is unprecedented. There is no real parallel for that. "I think the arguments put up by the EU don't make a great deal of sense. READ MORE: Lib Dems admit Brexit policy a 'high speed car crash'
No deal Brexit is becoming more likely, according to a former Bank of England governor
Boris Johnson is adamant the UK will leave on Decemebr 31
"At some point, I can't see any way in which we reconcile the views about whether we should adopt rules and regulations from the EU or go our own way and that will have to be resolved. "Once that is resolved, once one side or the other has decided that it's going to give in a little then it should be relatively straightforward to get an agreement on a free trade deal. "But I can't see at this stage that it's going to be easy to find a way out of the current empasse is these two positions." Host Andrew Castle added: "So, we've got six weeks to go until no deal is the default position and one we'll find ourselves in."
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The bloc is fighting for the UK to continue following their rules and regulations
Brexit: Britain needs to leave the EU 'quickly' warns Galloway
The UK and Brussels appeared far apart on agreeing a future trade arrangement after the UK's chief negotiator said "very little" progress had been made in the latest round of talks. David Frost insisted the major obstacle to agreement was the EU's insistence on including a set of "novel and unbalanced proposals" regarding a level playing field on standards. Mr Frost also said it is "hard to understand why the EU insists on an ideological approach" to negotiations on fishing rights. The EU's chief negotiator Michel Barnier insisted that the UK could "not have the best of both worlds" in a deal as he said the talks failed to produce any progress on the more difficult subjects. DON'T MISS Brexiteer MP accuses EU of dragging out trade talks to 'wear UK down' [INSIGHT]
Brussel's masterplan to 'complete monetary union' revealed [INTERVIEW]
SAS veteran's simple Brexit message as Brussels' cracks show [COMMENT]
Boris Johnson on Brexit
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thedailyexpress--2020-05-17--‘I’m astonished’ Sadiq Khan blasted for ‘going missing’ during coronavirus crisis

In an interview with the Sunday Express , Shaun Bailey , the Conservative candidate to replace Mr Khan next year , pointed out that the “ grandstanding mayor ” is hard to get off television if US President Donald Trump is due to visit the UK but has been absent in the biggest crisis to hit London since the Blitz in the Second World War .
Mr Bailey spoke out in a week where Mr Khan ’ s mismanagement of Transport for London ( TfL ) saw the tube , train and bus network come within hours of shutting down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in its finances .
TfL was only saved by a last minute bailout by the government after Mr Khan had spent months denying that the operating body had any financial problems .
Mr Bailey said Khan had “ lied ” about the TfL problem to Londoners “ there is no sugar coating it ” .
He added that a fares freeze had “ only benefited tourists ” not the 4.5 million travel card holders while denying the network £640 million of much needed investment and will result in a huge hike in fares @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been fury at the way Mr Khan has threatened the UK ’ s economic recovery by “ whacking up ” the congestion charge making it even more expensive to drive into London .
Mr Bailey claimed the London Mayor is only interested in “ virtue signalling ” .
And his handling of the coronavirus crisis also saw frontline transport workers left without personal protection equipment which Mr Bailey claims means there is a death rate among them five times higher than faced by staff in the NHS .
Mr Bailey said : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and coronavirus , the impact that is having means you have to make many decision very quickly .
“ So I am not surprised about his inaction but what I am surprised about is just how absent he has been .
It has been astonishing to me .
He is the missing man in this crisis.
” He went on : “ If I look at the indecision , he has never made any decision where he has not been dragged to the table .
Yet he had the cheek to take credit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the anti-violence units he had to be dragged to the table .
“ He was pro Heathrow [ expansion ] in the beginning when it suited him at the very end he became anti-Heathrow [ expansion ] .
“ The exciting thing about this level of government is that you have a budget you can do things .
“ This is the action end of government and you should be taking actions on behalf of London.
” Mr Bailey said that the Labour Mayor ’ s only policy is to use the position @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one day .
He added : “ The whole Donald Trump thing , love him or hate Donald Trump , he is the President of America .
That is our closest trading partner , we need to do a deal with him .
He would never deal with him because he has some petty argument to make himself look good .
“ This whole thing of going after Donald Trump , what for ?
What has it yielded for Londoners ?
Has it made my kids safer ?
Has it made it cheaper @ @ @ @ @ @ @ someone ’ s business ?
Has it given someone a job ?
No .
It is just all done to make Sadiq Khan look good .
”

Sadiq Khan has been branded as 'the missing man' during the coronavirus pandemic
In an interview with the Sunday Express, Shaun Bailey, the Conservative candidate to replace Mr Khan next year, pointed out that the “grandstanding mayor” is hard to get off television if US President Donald Trump is due to visit the UK but has been absent in the biggest crisis to hit London since the Blitz in the Second World War. Mr Bailey spoke out in a week where Mr Khan’s mismanagement of Transport for London (TfL) saw the tube, train and bus network come within hours of shutting down because of a £1.9 billion black hole in its finances.
TfL was only saved by a last minute bailout by the government after Mr Khan had spent months denying that the operating body had any financial problems. Mr Bailey said Khan had “lied” about the TfL problem to Londoners “there is no sugar coating it”. He added that a fares freeze had “only benefited tourists” not the 4.5 million travel card holders while denying the network £640 million of much needed investment and will result in a huge hike in fares down the line. There has also been fury at the way Mr Khan has threatened the UK’s economic recovery by “whacking up” the congestion charge making it even more expensive to drive into London. Mr Bailey claimed the London Mayor is only interested in “virtue signalling”.
TfL was only saved by a last minute bailout by the government
And his handling of the coronavirus crisis also saw frontline transport workers left without personal protection equipment which Mr Bailey claims means there is a death rate among them five times higher than faced by staff in the NHS. Mr Bailey said: “Sadiq Khan has never made a decision and coronavirus, the impact that is having means you have to make many decision very quickly. “So I am not surprised about his inaction but what I am surprised about is just how absent he has been. It has been astonishing to me. He is the missing man in this crisis.” He went on: “If I look at the indecision, he has never made any decision where he has not been dragged to the table. Yet he had the cheek to take credit for it. Anything from VRUs, the anti-violence units he had to be dragged to the table. “He was pro Heathrow [expansion] in the beginning when it suited him at the very end he became anti-Heathrow [expansion].
Saddiq Khan's handling of the coronavirus crisis also saw transport workers left without PPE
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Sadiq Khan ‘not taking responsibility for TFL’ says Shaun Bailey
“The exciting thing about this level of government is that you have a budget you can do things. “This is the action end of government and you should be taking actions on behalf of London.” Mr Bailey said that the Labour Mayor’s only policy is to use the position to become leader of the Labour Party one day. He added: “The whole Donald Trump thing, love him or hate Donald Trump, he is the President of America. That is our closest trading partner, we need to do a deal with him. He would never deal with him because he has some petty argument to make himself look good. “This whole thing of going after Donald Trump, what for? What has it yielded for Londoners? Has it made my kids safer? Has it made it cheaper to live here? Has it built someone’s business? Has it given someone a job? No. It is just all done to make Sadiq Khan look good.”


thedailyexpress--2020-05-17--How I will begin next phase to end EU's free movement tomorrow, says PRITI PATEL

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In these uncertain times , it has never been more important for Government to deliver its promises with clarity and conviction .
So tomorrow , I will stand before the House of Commons to begin the Second Reading debate on the Immigration Bill .
This historic piece of legislation ends the European Union ’ s free movement of people and lays the foundations to build a fairer , firmer , skills-led points-based immigration system .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK will have the power to determine who comes to this country .
We know this will mean changes in the way businesses operate and recruit but by doing this now we are giving businesses time to prepare and adapt as the economic recovery gathers pace .
The dedication shown by key workers from those in the NHS and in our supermarkets who have worked tirelessly to keep our vital services running shows us the fantastic work-ethic that already exists in this country .
During our recovery and beyond , we want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a local work force rather than bringing in labour from abroad .
The pandemic has shown us how important it can be to attract the best and brightest to our country .
Talented doctors , nurses and paramedics from all over the world are currently playing a leading role in the NHS ’ s efforts to fight coronavirus and save lives .
Alongside our new immigration system , we will introduce a new fast-track NHS visa to ensure the NHS can continue to access highly skilled medical professionals from across the world @

In these uncertain times, it has never been more important for Government to deliver its promises with clarity and conviction. So tomorrow, I will stand before the House of Commons to begin the Second Reading debate on the Immigration Bill. This historic piece of legislation ends the European Union’s free movement of people and lays the foundations to build a fairer, firmer, skills-led points-based immigration system.
For the first time in decades, the UK will have the power to determine who comes to this country.
We know this will mean changes in the way businesses operate and recruit but by doing this now we are giving businesses time to prepare and adapt as the economic recovery gathers pace.
The dedication shown by key workers from those in the NHS and in our supermarkets who have worked tirelessly to keep our vital services running shows us the fantastic work-ethic that already exists in this country.
During our recovery and beyond, we want employers to focus on training and investing in a local work force rather than bringing in labour from abroad.
The pandemic has shown us how important it can be to attract the best and brightest to our country. Talented doctors, nurses and paramedics from all over the world are currently playing a leading role in the NHS’s efforts to fight coronavirus and save lives.
Alongside our new immigration system, we will introduce a new fast-track NHS visa to ensure the NHS can continue to access highly skilled medical professionals from across the world.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-17--Want a trade deal? Cut ties with China, Trump's team tell UK in Brexit threat

A White House source has told the Sunday Express that the US President now expects Boris Johnson to drop plans to work with China on major projects such as the Huawei deal on 5G .
The hardening of the stance comes amid growing evidence and claims that the coronavirus pandemic was caused by the Chinese government initially trying to cover up the original outbreak .
There are also reports that it may have started in a Chinese laboratory in Wuhan and been accidentally released .
Donald Trump had already been angered by the agreement between the UK Government and Huawei @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a 5G network with allies warning that it was a security risk and would have unfettered access to British secrets .
But with UK/US trade talks about to enter their third week , a well placed White House source has said that China is now a leading issue .
The source said : `` I think the inter connectivity between our two nations will only get increasingly stronger .
The American people want that and expect that .
Together we are fighting a shared invisible foe - the virus - and building a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ present global danger - China .
`` As we do that we will become increasingly interdependent to provide a front of unity and strength to bolster that security for our nations and the world .
Trade will continue to increase and flourish as long as Boris continues to deconflict the UK ’ s interests from those of China .
`` And if he not only speaks boldly of , but shows tactical resolve in disentangling your interests from those of Beijing we will continue to move together and move closer .
`` If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fear our relationship will become strained as our president ’ s resolve is unwavering and he will work with those who will work with him and will not soften his stance for anyone - including the UK . ''

Brexit: Liam Fox discusses UK future with US or China
A White House source has told the Sunday Express that the US President now expects Boris Johnson to drop plans to work with China on major projects such as the Huawei deal on 5G. The hardening of the stance comes amid growing evidence and claims that the coronavirus pandemic was caused by the Chinese government initially trying to cover up the original outbreak.
There are also reports that it may have started in a Chinese laboratory in Wuhan and been accidentally released. Donald Trump had already been angered by the agreement between the UK Government and Huawei to work with each other to build a 5G network with allies warning that it was a security risk and would have unfettered access to British secrets. But with UK/US trade talks about to enter their third week, a well placed White House source has said that China is now a leading issue.
Price of a US post-Brexit trade deal is to cut links with China
Chinese President Xi Jinping
The source said: "I think the inter connectivity between our two nations will only get increasingly stronger. The American people want that and expect that. Together we are fighting a shared invisible foe - the virus - and building a united front to mitigate the clear and present global danger - China. "As we do that we will become increasingly interdependent to provide a front of unity and strength to bolster that security for our nations and the world. Trade will continue to increase and flourish as long as Boris continues to deconflict the UK’s interests from those of China. "And if he not only speaks boldly of, but shows tactical resolve in disentangling your interests from those of Beijing we will continue to move together and move closer. "If he [Boris Johnson] blinks I fear our relationship will become strained as our president’s resolve is unwavering and he will work with those who will work with him and will not soften his stance for anyone - including the UK."
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thedailyexpress--2020-05-17--Watch out, Boris! Expert outlines how Sir Keir Starmer can drive huge Labour turnaround

The Labour Party has been in been turmoil for several months after Jeremy Corbyn was humiliated when leading the party to its worst general election result in history at the end of last year .
The crushing defeat handed Boris Johnson an 80-seat majority in the House of Commons that inevitably enabled him to get his Brexit deal voted through parliament by and deliver on his promise to `` get Brexit done '' on January 31 .
The election defeat also saw Labour lose several constituency heartlands throughout the country - particularly in the north of England - that it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ several decades .
Mr Corbyn steeped down as Labour leader and was replaced by former Shadow Brexit Secretary Sir Keir Starmer on April 4 following a lengthy three-month leadership contest .
The new Labour leader immediately vowed to reunite a party torn apart by vicious infighting , allegations of anti-Semitism and a baffling Brexit position that saw millions of voters turn their back on the opposition .
He has been helped by the coronavirus crisis sweeping through Westminster , with Mr Johnson and his Conservative Party coming under intense attack for the Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been criticised for not reacting quickly enough to the outbreak of the killer virus , not enforcing lockdown measures soon enough and the baffling messages around them , and not providing enough personal protective equipment ( PPE ) to frontline NHS staff .
Sir Keir has also attacked Mr Johnson during furious exchanges in the House of Commons , most recently attempting to pick holes in apparent discrepancies over the impact the coronavirus pandemic has had on care homes .
He has only been leader for six weeks but already appears to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after overtaking the Prime Minister in a YouGov approval poll on who is currently the better leader .
Dr Steve McCabe , Associate Professor with the Institute for Design and Economic Acceleration and Senior Fellow at the Centre for Brexit Studies at Birmingham City University , noted how Labour was seen as `` unelectable '' nearly 40 years ago but returned to dominance in 1997 under Tony Blair .
He admitted Sir Keir faces `` gargantuan task '' in leading the opposition back to past glories , but warned he is well equipped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the British public towards the Government over its handling of the coronavirus crisis .
READ MORE : Sir Keir Starmer blasted for 'playing politics ' in Boris attack Dr McCabe told Express.co.uk : `` After the 1983 election , everyone said Labour was unelectable .
Though it took another 14 years and three leaders – Neil Kinnock , John Smith and Tony Blair – it did manage to rediscover the winning habit .
`` Starmer will be under no illusion ; he has a gargantuan task .
`` He starts from a state @ @ @ @ @ @ @ low base in terms of seats but strength in terms of members .
An overwhelming majority of members are cognisant of the fact that nothing can be done without power .
`` The crisis concerning COVID-19 has exposed problems such as under-funding of the NHS and the fact that questionable employment practices such as ‘ zero hours contracts ’ leave those under such conditions in a desperately plight when economic circumstances later as alarmingly as has occurred in the last couple of months .
DO N'T MISS Labour backlash : Peston slams Keir @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COMMENT ] 'The British people will get us through ! '
Boris hits back at Starmer [ VIDEO ] Laura Kuenssberg condemns Boris after PMQs - 'No cheerleaders ' [ OPINION ] '' Many of those who voted to Tory in exasperation at their situation and in the hope that Brexit would improve their prospects may discover that , given the magnitude of the current crisis , the ability of Johnson to really change may be extremely limited .
`` Such voters may be prepared to switch back to Labour and create the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fortunes that seemed inconceivable in the immediate aftermath of December ’ s election . ''
The political expert also backed former Director of Public Prosecutions Sir Keir to `` hold Johnson to account using his forensic brain and legal skills that make life uncomfortable '' .
Dr McCabe added : `` Starmer is articulate and very savvy .
He knows the landscape in which he has to work .
Corbyn was possibly the worst leader that Labour could have chosen , but Starmer is unquestionably the best leader the party had available at @ @

Keir Starmer ‘playing politics’ with Johnson says Brandon Lewis
The Labour Party has been in been turmoil for several months after Jeremy Corbyn was humiliated when leading the party to its worst general election result in history at the end of last year. The crushing defeat handed Boris Johnson an 80-seat majority in the House of Commons that inevitably enabled him to get his Brexit deal voted through parliament by and deliver on his promise to "get Brexit done" on January 31. The election defeat also saw Labour lose several constituency heartlands throughout the country - particularly in the north of England - that it had held and heavily relied on for several decades.
Mr Corbyn steeped down as Labour leader and was replaced by former Shadow Brexit Secretary Sir Keir Starmer on April 4 following a lengthy three-month leadership contest. The new Labour leader immediately vowed to reunite a party torn apart by vicious infighting, allegations of anti-Semitism and a baffling Brexit position that saw millions of voters turn their back on the opposition. He has been helped by the coronavirus crisis sweeping through Westminster, with Mr Johnson and his Conservative Party coming under intense attack for the Government's response to the lockdown. They have been criticised for not reacting quickly enough to the outbreak of the killer virus, not enforcing lockdown measures soon enough and the baffling messages around them, and not providing enough personal protective equipment (PPE) to frontline NHS staff.
Sir Keir Starmer could drive an 'inconceivable turnaround' in his bid to oust Boris Johnson as PM
The Labour leader overtook the Prime Minister in recent approval ratings
Sir Keir has also attacked Mr Johnson during furious exchanges in the House of Commons, most recently attempting to pick holes in apparent discrepancies over the impact the coronavirus pandemic has had on care homes. He has only been leader for six weeks but already appears to be having a posItive influence on Britons after overtaking the Prime Minister in a YouGov approval poll on who is currently the better leader. Dr Steve McCabe, Associate Professor with the Institute for Design and Economic Acceleration and Senior Fellow at the Centre for Brexit Studies at Birmingham City University, noted how Labour was seen as "unelectable" nearly 40 years ago but returned to dominance in 1997 under Tony Blair. He admitted Sir Keir faces "gargantuan task" in leading the opposition back to past glories, but warned he is well equipped to take advantage of increasing anger from the British public towards the Government over its handling of the coronavirus crisis. READ MORE: Sir Keir Starmer blasted for 'playing politics' in Boris attack
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Boris Johnson has come in for increasing criticism over his Government's handling of the coronavirus crisis
Dr McCabe told Express.co.uk: "After the 1983 election, everyone said Labour was unelectable. Though it took another 14 years and three leaders – Neil Kinnock, John Smith and Tony Blair – it did manage to rediscover the winning habit. "Starmer will be under no illusion; he has a gargantuan task. "He starts from a state in which the party is at a low base in terms of seats but strength in terms of members. An overwhelming majority of members are cognisant of the fact that nothing can be done without power. "The crisis concerning COVID-19 has exposed problems such as under-funding of the NHS and the fact that questionable employment practices such as ‘zero hours contracts’ leave those under such conditions in a desperately plight when economic circumstances later as alarmingly as has occurred in the last couple of months. DON'T MISS
Labour backlash: Peston slams Keir Starmer after PMQs clash with Boris [COMMENT]
'The British people will get us through!' Boris hits back at Starmer [VIDEO]
Laura Kuenssberg condemns Boris after PMQs - 'No cheerleaders' [OPINION]
Political experts have warned Sir Keir Starmer will take full advantage of errors from the Government
The Prime Minister's announcement over easing coronavirus lockdown measures was attacked
"Many of those who voted to Tory in exasperation at their situation and in the hope that Brexit would improve their prospects may discover that, given the magnitude of the current crisis, the ability of Johnson to really change may be extremely limited. "Such voters may be prepared to switch back to Labour and create the sort of turnaround in Labour’s fortunes that seemed inconceivable in the immediate aftermath of December’s election." The political expert also backed former Director of Public Prosecutions Sir Keir to "hold Johnson to account using his forensic brain and legal skills that make life uncomfortable". Dr McCabe added: "Starmer is articulate and very savvy. He knows the landscape in which he has to work. Corbyn was possibly the worst leader that Labour could have chosen, but Starmer is unquestionably the best leader the party had available at present.
The main reason for not sticking with the Labour Party
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-05-17--Historic moment in building Brexit future TOMORROW as end of EU free movement looms

The bill is part of Boris Johnson 's `` take back control '' promise to the British people on delivering Brexit and will bring an end to unfettered free movement from the EU .
It is due to come into effect in January at the end of the transition period and means that for the first time in decades the UK can decide who is allowed into the country .
In an exclusive comment piece for the Sunday Express , Home Secretary Priti Patel , a veteran Brexit campaigner , has promised that the new points based system will mean @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the best . ''
She said : `` This historic piece of legislation ends the European Union ’ s free movement of people and lays the foundations to build a fairer , firmer , skills-led points-based immigration system .
`` For the first time in decades , the UK will have the power to determine who comes to this country . ''
She went on : `` We know this will mean changes in the way businesses operate and recruit but by doing this now we are giving businesses time to prepare @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pace . ''
But she also made clear that coronavirus has highlighted the need to easily recruit doctors and nurses from abroad .
She said : `` Alongside our new immigration system , we will introduce a new fast-track NHS visa to ensure the NHS can continue to access highly skilled medical professionals from across the world .
As part of this , the visa fee will be reduced and those applying can expect a decision on whether they can work in the UK within just three weeks .
`` We ’ ve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workers and their families . ''
The Immigration and Social Security Co-ordination ( EU Withdrawal ) Bill 2020 which was introduced on 5 March will have its Second Reading in the House of Commons tomorrow .
The new points-based system will play an important role in creating a dynamic economy that works for the whole of the UK .
That is why it is important we provide certainty on the new system now .
A Home Office spokesman said the department is continuing to engage and work extensively with employers to understand their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ best home-grown talent .
He said : `` We recognise the tremendous contribution people are making to keep vital services running during this incredibly difficult time and the dedication shown by millions demonstrates to employers the skills and work-ethic we currently have here .
`` Employers focus should be on upskilling and valuing the current work force , combined with the very best talent from across the world , to create a high wage , high-skill and high productivity economy . ''
This Bill is a historic step towards delivering a fairer , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the whole of the UK .

Immigration: Points-based system will ‘truly work’ claims Patel
The bill is part of Boris Johnson's "take back control" promise to the British people on delivering Brexit and will bring an end to unfettered free movement from the EU. It is due to come into effect in January at the end of the transition period and means that for the first time in decades the UK can decide who is allowed into the country.
In an exclusive comment piece for the Sunday Express, Home Secretary Priti Patel, a veteran Brexit campaigner, has promised that the new points based system will mean the country can attract the "brightest and the best." She said: "This historic piece of legislation ends the European Union’s free movement of people and lays the foundations to build a fairer, firmer, skills-led points-based immigration system. "For the first time in decades, the UK will have the power to determine who comes to this country." She went on: "We know this will mean changes in the way businesses operate and recruit but by doing this now we are giving businesses time to prepare and adapt as the economic recovery gathers pace."
A historic immigration bill is due to return to Parliament tomorrow
Priti Patel said that the new system will mean the UK can attract the 'brightest and the best'
But she also made clear that coronavirus has highlighted the need to easily recruit doctors and nurses from abroad. She said: "Alongside our new immigration system, we will introduce a new fast-track NHS visa to ensure the NHS can continue to access highly skilled medical professionals from across the world. As part of this, the visa fee will be reduced and those applying can expect a decision on whether they can work in the UK within just three weeks. "We’ve also automatically extended visas for current NHS workers and their families." The Immigration and Social Security Co-ordination (EU Withdrawal) Bill 2020 which was introduced on 5 March will have its Second Reading in the House of Commons tomorrow. The new points-based system will play an important role in creating a dynamic economy that works for the whole of the UK. That is why it is important we provide certainty on the new system now.
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thedailyexpress--2020-05-17--Brexit delivered on time will give every Briton £5,750, says JOHN LONGWORTH

The research by the Centre for Brexit Policy ( CBP ) has warned that delaying a full Brexit beyond the end of the year would be `` an act of madness '' .
According to its analysis the cost of delay would be at least ten times higher than the controversial divorce bill in the Withdrawal Agreement .
The CBP findings have shown that if attempts to make the transition period permanent succeed then it could cost Britain as much as £4.6 trillion and torpedo efforts to recover from coronavirus .
The findings have come as Remainers have launched a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rules beyond the end of this year when the transition period concludes .
Boris Johnson has vowed to allow Britain to become fully free of the EU on December 31 and ruled out extending the transition period but Labour led by Sir Keir Starmer and their Scottish Nationalist and Lib Dem Remainer allies have demanded an extension .
A letter signed by Labour , SNP , Lib Dem and Green MPs was sent to EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier this week begging him to force an extension .
However , research by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rules will be extremely costly to Britain .
The thinktank has found that a combination of at least five massive actual or potential bills would fall on the UK taxpayer if ministers bow to growing “ delayer ” pressure from resurgent Remainer forces .
The report notes that an extension means the UK will continue payment of the UK contribution of £11 billion a year net to the EU budget on top of a £39 billion divorce bill .
In addition the UK will miss out on lucrative free trade agreements ( FTAs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 27-member EU bloc with talks already underway with the USA , Australia and New Zealand .
Extending the transition period also means that Britain will have to keep adopting EU regulations meaning it can not make savings by cutting red tape .
While the transition period continues the UK will also be forced to accept free movement meaning that the welfare bill for unskilled labour will continue to mount .
There will also be potential liabilities for bailing out a bankrupt Eurozone and likely extra cash demands from Brussels by becoming entrapped in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on January 1 next year .
The cost of these five areas will be at least £400 billion according to the CBP but could go as much as £4.6 trillion if transition becomes the permanent position of the UK .
Highlighting the dangers posed by extending the transition period and Britain ’ s continued effective membership of the EU , former cabinet minister Owen Paterson warned : `` Britain is like a man standing by an unexploded bomb .
The bomb is ticking , louder and louder .
“ The prudent step is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The prudent step is to retire to a safe distance . ''
Mr Paterson is one of a group of authors of the report from politics , business and economics and from across the political divide .
Another author , businessman John ongworth added : “ We just can not afford to extend the transition period .
It will cost us around £400 billion at least , quite likely much more .
The combination of these eye-watering costs and continued subservience to EU rules would wreck any chance we have of restoring our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subsides . ''
The Government has repeatedly stated that it will not extend the transition period , intended to allow 11 months for securing a free trade deal with the EU , beyond the allotted time of the end of December .
But Remainers , who have been rebranded “ Delayers ” in the report , have launched a counter-offensive using the coronavirus crisis as a reason to delay a full Brexit .
Anti-Brexit group Best for Britain has said it is not reasonable to think Ministers can strike a good deal for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year .
`` The public would clearly support the Government requesting an extension so it can focus solely on fighting the virus and restoring our economy without the risk of a catastrophic no deal.
” Matters come to a head next month ( June ) when the EU and UK have to decide whether to approve an extension of the transition period – for up to two years .
During this time , Britain would be bound by EU laws and courts , obliged to pay its annual membership fee , unable to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to implement any new taxes and rules imposed by Brussels .
It would also be unable to secure any new FTAs with , for example , the US , Japan or fast growing Asian countries .
Crucially , during transition , the country is worse off than when it was an EU member because it no longer has any voice in decision-making .
The CBP report noted : `` Much talk about an extension seems to assume that it is just about extending the time for carrying on negotiations with the EU .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ consequences of extending the transition period .
“ This is a quite extraordinary arrangement unique in international law and practice since colonial days , in which the UK is subject to EU laws while having no vote or veto on them , and subject to foreign courts and foreign administrative and executive agencies such as the European Commission while having no representation of its citizens on them . ''
The report also pointed out that Britain would have to accept rules while not being able to take part in the decision making process @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` by invitation only for the purpose of being told what to do . ''
The report added : “ This arrangement is exceptionally dangerous , putting the UK and its industries at risk of having new legislation , or changes of rules or interpretations , imposed with no remedy or recourse .
The direct jurisdiction of the ECJ would continue throughout the extended transition period , together with its powers of enforcement including the power to impose fines.
” -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- @ @ @ @ @ @ @ -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- - Let ’ s have Recovery not Transition , says John Longworth , Director General of the Centre for Brexit Policy Each time there has been a vote in the last five years the people of Britain have opted to leave the EU .
Referenda , European and General Elections have borne this out .
In the end even Parliament agreed .
We left the EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ principle but not in practice .
The UK remains tied to the EU via a transition period during which we must apply EU rules and pay our way without any say .
Ironically the EU has been so preoccupied with the Corona crisis that they have not had time to cause mischief , so far .
However , it is the very existence of this pestilence which makes our leaving the transition , as we are legally obliged to do at the end of 2020 , so important .
Most of the measures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ States of the EU have implemented to fight Covid 19 would not normally be permitted by the EU : closing borders ; economic aid including grants , loans , furloughing and tax adjustments ; relaxing the precautionary principle on PPE and drug testing etc .
Countries first ignored the EU and then the EU relaxed it ’ s rules .
But they will apply again as soon as the EU can apply them and as long as we are in transition , they will apply to the UK .
It is vital to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have the freedom to apply whatever measures we deem appropriate , free of the EU strictures .
We must leave the transition by the end of 2020 at the latest .
However , it is not just a matter of escaping these restrictions , it is important that we can use our money , payments to the EU which could otherwise be used in the UK to support the NHS for example .
We should also stop giving money to the EU from our international development budget .
Far more crucial for our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the economic policy freedoms to boost the economy and support industries , adjust taxes and invest .
It will also give us the freedom to strike deals around the world with whoever we choose .
We should also not forget in this 75th VE and VJ Day era that on leaving the transition we will also gain our liberty , so hard won on many occasions in our history .
Brexit was about sovereignty and democracy as much if not more than about economics .
We must be able to make our own @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the dead hand of unelected Brussels Bureaucrats and the diktat of foreign powers .
We should also not forget who our true friends are in the Commonwealth .
The scale of the challenge created by Corona has yet to be realised .
Only liberty will give us the cure .
• John Longworth is Director General of the Centre for Brexit Policy , former DG of the British Chambers of Commerce , an entrepreneur and former Conservative MEP

Brexit delay 'causing damage to UK economy' says Johnson
The research by the Centre for Brexit Policy (CBP) has warned that delaying a full Brexit beyond the end of the year would be "an act of madness". According to its analysis the cost of delay would be at least ten times higher than the controversial divorce bill in the Withdrawal Agreement. The CBP findings have shown that if attempts to make the transition period permanent succeed then it could cost Britain as much as £4.6 trillion and torpedo efforts to recover from coronavirus.
The findings have come as Remainers have launched a new push to keep Britain under EU rules beyond the end of this year when the transition period concludes. Boris Johnson has vowed to allow Britain to become fully free of the EU on December 31 and ruled out extending the transition period but Labour led by Sir Keir Starmer and their Scottish Nationalist and Lib Dem Remainer allies have demanded an extension. A letter signed by Labour, SNP, Lib Dem and Green MPs was sent to EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier this week begging him to force an extension. However, research by the CBP has proven that remaining under EU rules will be extremely costly to Britain. The thinktank has found that a combination of at least five massive actual or potential bills would fall on the UK taxpayer if ministers bow to growing “delayer” pressure from resurgent Remainer forces. The report notes that an extension means the UK will continue payment of the UK contribution of £11 billion a year net to the EU budget on top of a £39 billion divorce bill.
John Longworth said delaying Brexit would cost £400 billion
In addition the UK will miss out on lucrative free trade agreements (FTAs) from beyond the confines of the 27-member EU bloc with talks already underway with the USA, Australia and New Zealand. Extending the transition period also means that Britain will have to keep adopting EU regulations meaning it cannot make savings by cutting red tape. While the transition period continues the UK will also be forced to accept free movement meaning that the welfare bill for unskilled labour will continue to mount. There will also be potential liabilities for bailing out a bankrupt Eurozone and likely extra cash demands from Brussels by becoming entrapped in the new EU budget cycle that begins on January 1 next year. The cost of these five areas will be at least £400 billion according to the CBP but could go as much as £4.6 trillion if transition becomes the permanent position of the UK. Highlighting the dangers posed by extending the transition period and Britain’s continued effective membership of the EU, former cabinet minister Owen Paterson warned: "Britain is like a man standing by an unexploded bomb. The bomb is ticking, louder and louder.
Mr Paterson warned 'UK is a ticking time bomb'
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“The prudent step is not to fiddle with the bomb. The prudent step is to retire to a safe distance." Mr Paterson is one of a group of authors of the report from politics, business and economics and from across the political divide. Another author, businessman John ongworth added: “We just cannot afford to extend the transition period. It will cost us around £400 billion at least, quite likely much more. The combination of these eye-watering costs and continued subservience to EU rules would wreck any chance we have of restoring our fortunes as a nation as the pandemic subsides." The Government has repeatedly stated that it will not extend the transition period, intended to allow 11 months for securing a free trade deal with the EU, beyond the allotted time of the end of December. But Remainers, who have been rebranded “Delayers” in the report, have launched a counter-offensive using the coronavirus crisis as a reason to delay a full Brexit. Anti-Brexit group Best for Britain has said it is not reasonable to think Ministers can strike a good deal for the UK by the end of the year. "The public would clearly support the Government requesting an extension so it can focus solely on fighting the virus and restoring our economy without the risk of a catastrophic no deal.”
Remainers 'used coronavirus as a reason to delay a full Brexit'
Matters come to a head next month (June) when the EU and UK have to decide whether to approve an extension of the transition period – for up to two years. During this time, Britain would be bound by EU laws and courts, obliged to pay its annual membership fee, unable to take back control of immigration, required to implement any new taxes and rules imposed by Brussels. It would also be unable to secure any new FTAs with, for example, the US, Japan or fast growing Asian countries. Crucially, during transition, the country is worse off than when it was an EU member because it no longer has any voice in decision-making. The CBP report noted: "Much talk about an extension seems to assume that it is just about extending the time for carrying on negotiations with the EU. This is only one of many profound consequences of extending the transition period. “This is a quite extraordinary arrangement unique in international law and practice since colonial days, in which the UK is subject to EU laws while having no vote or veto on them, and subject to foreign courts and foreign administrative and executive agencies such as the European Commission while having no representation of its citizens on them."
The report also pointed out that Britain would have to accept rules while not being able to take part in the decision making process and only being allowed to attend meetings "by invitation only for the purpose of being told what to do." The report added: “This arrangement is exceptionally dangerous, putting the UK and its industries at risk of having new legislation, or changes of rules or interpretations, imposed with no remedy or recourse. The direct jurisdiction of the ECJ would continue throughout the extended transition period, together with its powers of enforcement including the power to impose fines.”
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Let’s have Recovery not Transition, says John Longworth, Director General of the Centre for Brexit Policy By John Longworth Each time there has been a vote in the last five years the people of Britain have opted to leave the EU. Referenda, European and General Elections have borne this out. In the end even Parliament agreed. We left the EU in January of this year, in principle but not in practice. The UK remains tied to the EU via a transition period during which we must apply EU rules and pay our way without any say. Ironically the EU has been so preoccupied with the Corona crisis that they have not had time to cause mischief, so far.
Tensions between the UK and EU have cooled during outbreak
However, it is the very existence of this pestilence which makes our leaving the transition, as we are legally obliged to do at the end of 2020, so important. Most of the measures that we and for that matter Member States of the EU have implemented to fight Covid 19 would not normally be permitted by the EU: closing borders; economic aid including grants, loans, furloughing and tax adjustments; relaxing the precautionary principle on PPE and drug testing etc. Countries first ignored the EU and then the EU relaxed it’s rules. But they will apply again as soon as the EU can apply them and as long as we are in transition, they will apply to the UK. It is vital to our economic and health recovery that we have the freedom to apply whatever measures we deem appropriate, free of the EU strictures. We must leave the transition by the end of 2020 at the latest. However, it is not just a matter of escaping these restrictions, it is important that we can use our money, payments to the EU which could otherwise be used in the UK to support the NHS for example. We should also stop giving money to the EU from our international development budget.
EU payments could be spent on NHS instead
Only if we leave the transition can the UK boost its economy and this first report from the prestigious Fellows of the Centre for Brexit Policy (CBP) suggests that the benefits of exiting the transition will be as much as £380 billion. That is £5,750 for every person in the country. Staying in transition will mean us missing out on this. It will be an enormous cost to the nation. Furthermore, a survey in the CBP report shows that the majority of people, especially outside London and Scotland, want to end transition with or without a trade deal. Even more importantly for our PM, two thirds of Conservative voters want to exit the transition. It is vital that the government resist the siren calls of the continuing Rejoin campaign, supported by parts of the media in particular the BBC and C4, who want to frustrate Brexit by keeping us tied to the EU. Clearly a trade deal would be desirable and have some marginal benefits, but trade takes place irrespective of trade deals, in fact most trade in the world and with the EU for that matter, takes place without such deals.
UK 'can only boost its economy after leaving the transition'


thedailyexpress--2020-05-17--Get Brexit done! Majority AGAINST Brexit transition extension in close poll

Polling by ComRes for the Centre for Brexit Policy ( CBP ) has revealed that 44 percent of voters surveyed want Britain to end the transition period by December 31 or earlier .
This compares to 40 percent who want transition extended to 2021 or beyond .
While Britain officially left the EU on January 31 this year , it has been trapped in an 11-month transition period until December 31 .
The EU and its Remainer allies in Britain have been attempting to force Mr Johnson to extend the transition period claiming that there is not enough time to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Prime Minister has vowed to give the UK its full independence at the end of the year whatever the outcome of the talks .
The transition period means Britain can not decide EU rules but is forced to accept them and the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice .
It also has to pay a membership fee on top of the £39 billion divorce bill .
According to the poll findings two out of three Tory voters do not want transition extended but 56 per cent of Labour voters support an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if Mr Johnson wants to hold on to the blue collar seats won off Labour in December he needs to stick to his Brexit plans .
The combined result of the regions roughly analogous to the so called `` Red Wall '' seats in the North West , North East , Yorkshire and Humberside , Wales , West Midlands , East Midlands , and South West has a 48 percent to 34 percent majority against extension – a margin of 14 percentage points .
In England , London is the only region where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transition – 45 percent for extension against 40 percent .
Scotland also has a plus 43 percent majority in favour of extending transition .

Majority has opposed a Brexit transition extension in a poll
Polling by ComRes for the Centre for Brexit Policy (CBP) has revealed that 44 percent of voters surveyed want Britain to end the transition period by December 31 or earlier. This compares to 40 percent who want transition extended to 2021 or beyond.
While Britain officially left the EU on January 31 this year, it has been trapped in an 11-month transition period until December 31. The EU and its Remainer allies in Britain have been attempting to force Mr Johnson to extend the transition period claiming that there is not enough time to negotiate a free trade deal. But the Prime Minister has vowed to give the UK its full independence at the end of the year whatever the outcome of the talks. The transition period means Britain cannot decide EU rules but is forced to accept them and the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice. It also has to pay a membership fee on top of the £39 billion divorce bill.
The Prime Minister has vowed to give the UK its full independence at the end of the year
According to the poll findings two out of three Tory voters do not want transition extended but 56 per cent of Labour voters support an extension. The poll also shows that if Mr Johnson wants to hold on to the blue collar seats won off Labour in December he needs to stick to his Brexit plans. The combined result of the regions roughly analogous to the so called "Red Wall" seats in the North West, North East, Yorkshire and Humberside, Wales, West Midlands, East Midlands, and South West has a 48 percent to 34 percent majority against extension – a margin of 14 percentage points. In England, London is the only region where there is greater support for extending the transition – 45 percent for extension against 40 percent. Scotland also has a plus 43 percent majority in favour of extending transition.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-17--‘We need them more than ever’ Fear Rishi Sunak will cut military to save after coronavirus

Former cabinet minister Esther McVey , the founder of the influential blue collar Conservative movement with more than 100 MPs , has used her latest podcast to point out that the military have been vital to help the country tackle the deadly disease .
Among the tasks carried out by the armed forces have been increasing the amount of testing , delivering of protective equipment and building the Nightingale Field Hospitals .
The conversion of the Excel Centre in London into a field hospital with 4,000 beds has been described as `` the most ambitious medical project Britain has seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ War . ''
Ms McVey argued that instead of cutting the armed forces the government needs to consider how to increase its peacetime capability .
She said : `` Whatever is thrown at our country the military always rises to the occasion , so it ’ s vital the Chancellor does not see defence cuts as an easy way to make savings post coronavirus because what this shows is that we need the military and its expertise more than ever . ''
Fellow Tory MP Colonel Bob Stewart , who was interviewed in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the last two decades .
He said : `` We need to stop reducing the military 's numbers . ''
Also interviewed in the blue collar conversation podcast was Paul Doyle , a former member of the Grenadier Guards .
He said : `` The whole United Kingdom and especially the younger generation have started to take note about what the military are .
It is a completely adaptable force which has many working parts which comes together to deliver all sorts of services .
`` It probably makes people realise ' I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' or ' I can be a logistics expert in the military ' or ' I can deliver food and be a force for god ' .
It is not just being a war fighter .
`` Behind the scenes it will change the mindset of those in government who will realise the military has this capability , they will look at what it can do domestically and it they may wonder what we can do to enhance that capability just in case there is something in the future . ''
Paul Matson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said he believes that it will be the military that gets the country going again .
`` They need to be used even sooner .
If anything breaks down in the country , send for the military , they 'll always be there when there is anything that goes wrong .
They will get the job done .
`` There 's a vast knowledge of wealth in the military of logistics and moving things around . ''
Meanwhile , TV handyman Nick Knowles , who works with military veterans on DIY SOS , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opportunity for military personnel to reveal their skill set in a non-combat setting .
He said : `` The military have been doing an extraordinary job behind the scenes , very quietly getting on with delivering enormous amounts of PPE and helping build the Nightingale Hospitals .
Weirdly it has gone by without a lot of the public noticing what our military does .
`` They are a unique skillset to help out in difficult times .
With a lot of veterans people see them as an issue or a problem , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that and recognise them as an amazing resource . ''
Listing the important skills from the armed forces , he said : `` They will keep going until a job is done , stay on task and message .
They have considerable training , they work together as a team , they take instructions incredibly well .
They are honourably , trustworthy , many of them are machines physically and mentally too .
There is a lot to like about them . ''

Rishi Sunak has been warned that he should not try to bring in further cuts to the military
Former cabinet minister Esther McVey, the founder of the influential blue collar Conservative movement with more than 100 MPs, has used her latest podcast to point out that the military have been vital to help the country tackle the deadly disease. Among the tasks carried out by the armed forces have been increasing the amount of testing, delivering of protective equipment and building the Nightingale Field Hospitals.
The conversion of the Excel Centre in London into a field hospital with 4,000 beds has been described as "the most ambitious medical project Britain has seen since the end of the Second World War." Ms McVey argued that instead of cutting the armed forces the government needs to consider how to increase its peacetime capability. She said: "Whatever is thrown at our country the military always rises to the occasion, so it’s vital the Chancellor does not see defence cuts as an easy way to make savings post coronavirus because what this shows is that we need the military and its expertise more than ever." Fellow Tory MP Colonel Bob Stewart, who was interviewed in the podcast bemoaned the military cuts over the last two decades.
The military has been vital in the fight against the pandemic
He said: "We need to stop reducing the military's numbers." Also interviewed in the blue collar conversation podcast was Paul Doyle, a former member of the Grenadier Guards. He said: "The whole United Kingdom and especially the younger generation have started to take note about what the military are. It is a completely adaptable force which has many working parts which comes together to deliver all sorts of services. "It probably makes people realise 'I can be a nurse in the military' or 'I can be a logistics expert in the military' or 'I can deliver food and be a force for god'. It is not just being a war fighter.
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"Behind the scenes it will change the mindset of those in government who will realise the military has this capability, they will look at what it can do domestically and it they may wonder what we can do to enhance that capability just in case there is something in the future." Paul Matson, founder of Help for Heroes, said he believes that it will be the military that gets the country going again. "They need to be used even sooner. If anything breaks down in the country, send for the military, they'll always be there when there is anything that goes wrong. They will get the job done. "There's a vast knowledge of wealth in the military of logistics and moving things around."
Building the Nightingale Field Hospitals was one of the tasks the armed forces took part of


thedailyexpress--2020-05-18--Priti Patel says ending free movement will ‘play vital role’ in UK's coronavirus recovery

In February , the Government set out proposals for the new system , with points awarded for specific requirements .
These included being able to speak English to a certain level , having a job offer from an approved employer and meeting a salary threshold of £25,600 .
Points could also be awarded for certain qualifications and if there is a shortage in a particular occupation The Government faced its first hurdles in the Commons this afternoon as part of its measures to replace European Union freedom of movement rules in the UK after Brexit .
This Immigration and Social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is part of Westminster 's move towards a new points-based immigration system , to be introduced from 2021 .
Details will be set out in the immigration rules and will will explain the future system for EU and non-EU nationals who move to the UK after the Brexit transition period ends in December .
Speaking in the House of Commons , the Home Secretary Priti Patel said : `` The Bill before us today will play a vital role in our recovery plans for the future .
It will end free movement and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ immigration system .
`` A firmer , fairer and simpler system that will attract the people we need to drive our country forward through the recovery stage of coronavirus laying the foundation for a high wage , high skill , productive economy . ''
Ms Patel was speaking during the second reading debate of the Immigration and Social Security Co-ordination ( EU Withdrawal ) Bill .
Commenting on the Bill , the Home Secretary concluded : `` It 's a simple one - it delivers on the promise we made to the British @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It takes back control of our borders .
`` It gives the Government the powers needed to deliver an immigration system that is firm , fair and fit for the future , the points-based system the public voted for , a system that will support our economic recovery by prioritising jobs for people here in the UK while continuing to attract the brightest and the best in terms of global talent . ''
READ MORE : Brexit could spark 'domino effect ' as entire EU at risk of collapse He added : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) on Thursday are only too happy to vote through a Bill today that will send a powerful message to those same people - that they are not considered by this Government to be skilled workers .
`` Are shop workers unskilled ?
Are refuse collectors ?
Are local government workers ?
Are NHS staff ?
Are care workers ?
`` Of course they are not . ''
The Government has continued to insist the new points-based immigration system will make it easier and quicker for medical professionals to work in the NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ms Patel had also previously said it was a `` firmer , fairer and simpler '' system .

Priti Patel outlines Brexit bill to end UK free movement
In February, the Government set out proposals for the new system, with points awarded for specific requirements. These included being able to speak English to a certain level, having a job offer from an approved employer and meeting a salary threshold of £25,600. Points could also be awarded for certain qualifications and if there is a shortage in a particular occupation The Government faced its first hurdles in the Commons this afternoon as part of its measures to replace European Union freedom of movement rules in the UK after Brexit.
This Immigration and Social Security Co-ordination (EU Withdrawal) Bill is part of Westminster's move towards a new points-based immigration system, to be introduced from 2021. Details will be set out in the immigration rules and will will explain the future system for EU and non-EU nationals who move to the UK after the Brexit transition period ends in December. Speaking in the House of Commons, the Home Secretary Priti Patel said: "The Bill before us today will play a vital role in our recovery plans for the future. It will end free movement and pave the way for our new points-based immigration system. "A firmer, fairer and simpler system that will attract the people we need to drive our country forward through the recovery stage of coronavirus laying the foundation for a high wage, high skill, productive economy."
Brexit news: Priti Patel said ending free movement will create a
Brexit news: The Government faced its first hurdles with the Bill in the Commons this afternoon
Ms Patel was speaking during the second reading debate of the Immigration and Social Security Co-ordination (EU Withdrawal) Bill. Commenting on the Bill, the Home Secretary concluded: "It's a simple one - it delivers on the promise we made to the British people. "It ends free movement. It takes back control of our borders. "It gives the Government the powers needed to deliver an immigration system that is firm, fair and fit for the future, the points-based system the public voted for, a system that will support our economic recovery by prioritising jobs for people here in the UK while continuing to attract the brightest and the best in terms of global talent." READ MORE: Brexit could spark 'domino effect' as entire EU at risk of collapse
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Brexit news: Priti Patel speaks in a near-empty House of Commons
Brexit news: Nick Thomas-Symonds attacked the Bill from the Government
Brexit news: Labour has previously been heavily critical of the government's immigration proposals
He added: "Those who clapped (for carers) on Thursday are only too happy to vote through a Bill today that will send a powerful message to those same people - that they are not considered by this Government to be skilled workers. "Are shop workers unskilled? Are refuse collectors? Are local government workers? Are NHS staff? Are care workers? "Of course they are not." The Government has continued to insist the new points-based immigration system will make it easier and quicker for medical professionals to work in the NHS through a new-fast-track visa. Home Secretary Ms Patel had also previously said it was a "firmer, fairer and simpler" system.
Brexit news: The passage of a Bill through Parliament
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thedailyexpress--2020-05-18--UK-US trade talk news: Liz Truss makes update after 200 negotiators complete first stage

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Today the Government published an update on UK-US trade talks , with Trade Secretary Liz Truss branding the recent negotiations a success .
The talks took place earlier this month , between May 5-15 , and involved 200 negotiators discussing the terms of a free trade agreement ( FTA ) .
Writing on Twitter , Ms Truss said : `` Today we are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of negotiations for the UK US FTA Flag of United Kingdom which were positive and constructive . ''
She also shared a link to a Government press release detailing the progress made between the two sides .
The document , written by the Tory MP and Department for International Trade , highlights why it is so important a FTA is reached between the UK and the US .
It states : `` An FTA with the US can help create opportunities for UK businesses , provide better jobs and boost the economy in @ @ @ @ @ @ @

EU: ‘Time to decide’ between China and US says expert
Today the Government published an update on UK-US trade talks, with Trade Secretary Liz Truss branding the recent negotiations a success. The talks took place earlier this month, between May 5-15, and involved 200 negotiators discussing the terms of a free trade agreement (FTA).
Writing on Twitter, Ms Truss said: "Today we are publishing the outcomes of the First Round of negotiations for the UK US FTA Flag of United Kingdom which were positive and constructive." She also shared a link to a Government press release detailing the progress made between the two sides. The document, written by the Tory MP and Department for International Trade, highlights why it is so important a FTA is reached between the UK and the US. It states: "An FTA with the US can help create opportunities for UK businesses, provide better jobs and boost the economy in every part of the country."
The Government has published the outcomes of recent trade talks with the US
Liz Truss is the Trade Secretary
The document also reveals the two states carried out extensive discussions encompassing nearly 30 different areas. For example, the negotiators discussed: telecoms, financial services, market access for goods and the environment. Reflect on the talks, Ms Truss said: "The meetings were positive and constructive, reflecting the mutual commitment to secure an ambitious agreement that significantly boosts trade and investment between our economies, the first and fifth largest in the world. "Both sides recognised the unprecedented circumstances in which these negotiations took place, with significant emphasis placed on supporting the post-Covid economic recovery." JUST IN: Brussels in meltdown as production and manufacturing levels collapse
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Liz Truss unveiled the news on Twitter
Brexit timeline
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thedailyexpress--2020-05-18--EU crumbles: Italian's fume Germany has abandoned them – 'we are bleeding to death'

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Right-wing populists in Italy such as Matteo Salvini have exploited the situation by fermenting anger towards German 's in a series of tweets and speeches .
The Lega leader argued that the EU retreats into member state self protectionism during times of hardship .
He said this is hypocritical after being `` fed European slogans for 20 years . ''
He fumed that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come from Venezuela or Albania and that , `` we do n't get anything from Germany , except two fingers in our eyes . ''
German newspaper Der Spiegel announced that over 70 percent of Italian citizens said they were disappointed by Europe 's aid to date .
Italy holidays : Italy to allow travel to and from abroad from June Report shows COVID-19 deaths were underreported in some regions It also added that Italians feel abandoned , especially by the Germans .
Italians suggest the actions of Germany show that the bloc @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russians , Chinese , and Cubans sent aid planes , the German federal government blocked the export of protective masks and suits before it finally helped .
Many Italians witnessed Berlin providing hundreds of billions of euros in support for its own citizens , but prevents corona bonds to alleviate Italian needs .
Italian newspaper `` Il Giornale '' said that Germany is `` suffocating '' Italy .
READ MORE : Pay up !
US savages Germany after demand nuclear weapons removed

Right-wing populists in Italy such as Matteo Salvini have exploited the situation by fermenting anger towards German's in a series of tweets and speeches. The Lega leader argued that the EU retreats into member state self protectionism during times of hardship. He said this is hypocritical after being "fed European slogans for 20 years." He fumed that when Italy needs help, it will come from Venezuela or Albania and that, "we don't get anything from Germany, except two fingers in our eyes." German newspaper Der Spiegel announced that over 70 percent of Italian citizens said they were disappointed by Europe's aid to date.
Italy holidays: Italy to allow travel to and from abroad from June
Report shows COVID-19 deaths were underreported in some regions
It also added that Italians feel abandoned, especially by the Germans.
Italians suggest the actions of Germany show that the bloc is in no way united.
While Russians, Chinese, and Cubans sent aid planes, the German federal government blocked the export of protective masks and suits before it finally helped.
Many Italians witnessed Berlin providing hundreds of billions of euros in support for its own citizens, but prevents corona bonds to alleviate Italian needs.
Italian newspaper "Il Giornale" said that Germany is "suffocating" Italy.
READ MORE: Pay up! US savages Germany after demand nuclear weapons removed


thedailyexpress--2020-05-18--Nicola Sturgeon caves: SNP finally gives in to Boris Johnson's UK exit strategy demands

Speaking at the latest Scottish Government coronavirus briefing in Edinburgh , Nicola Sturgeon said she will announce a detailed road map for the easing of the coronavirus lockdown in Scotland on Thursday , adding Scottish people will finally be allowed to follow England 's coronavirus lockdown rules soon after May 28 .
She said : “ The roadmap we publish on Thursday will give a more detailed indication of the order in which we will carefully and gradually seek to lift current restrictions .
Like other countries , we will not yet be able to put firm dates on all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be driven by data and evidence and it will also be important that we assess the impact of measures in one phase before moving on to another .
“ We will continue to take a cautious approach that ensures the virus is suppressed while seeking to restore as much normality as possible when it is safe to do so .
“ Thursday ’ s road map will confirm that assuming that we see progress in suppressing the virus , the first phase will start from the next phase will start from the formal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Within a few days of that , we will aim to allow for example more outdoor activity such as being able to sit in the park , meet up outdoors with someone from another household as long as you stay socially distant , some limited outdoor sporting activity like golf and fishing .
“ The opening of gardening centres and recycling facilities and the resumption of some outdoor work.
” READ MORE : 'Be honest ! '
Nicola Sturgeon under fire over 'coronavirus cover-up' The First Minister added : `` Within @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we will be taking some concrete steps on the journey back to normality .
`` As I 've said before , it wo n't be normality as we knew it because the virus will not have gone away , but it will be a journey to a better balance - I hope - than the one we have today .
`` As we take each step , we must make sure that the ground beneath us is as solid as possible .
`` That 's why sticking with the lockdown restrictions a bit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so important , because that will mean we can start to take these steps with the confidence that we have alternative means of effectively keeping it under control . ''
The First Minister said for the moment there is no change to the lockdown advice currently being circulated by the Scottish Government .
A total of 2,105 patients have died in Scotland after testing positive for coronavirus , up by two from 2,103 on Sunday , Nicola Sturgeon has announced .
Ms Sturgeon said there are 1,427 patients in hospital with confirmed or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Sunday .
Of these , 63 were in intensive care , a rise of four .
She issued a note of caution over the death figures , saying although deaths can be registered at the weekend , registrations tend to be lower .
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[ POLL ] Coronavirus map LIVE : UK changes guidance to include new symptom [ LIVE ] EU calls for international probe into origin of coronavirus pandemic [ INSIGHT ] The First Minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expansion in testing , saying that anyone over the age of five with any of the symptoms would be able to have a test booked .
Ms Sturgeon said these would be available at the drive-in centres across the country , or through any of the mobile testing centres , with the scheme being a collaboration between the Scottish and UK governments .
While key workers will be prioritised , Ms Sturgeon said the tests can be booked online .
Meanwhile , referencing the recent change to include the loss of taste or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minister said this should now be a reason for people to self-isolate .

Nicola Sturgeon announces plans to ease lockdown restrictions
Speaking at the latest Scottish Government coronavirus briefing in Edinburgh, Nicola Sturgeon said she will announce a detailed road map for the easing of the coronavirus lockdown in Scotland on Thursday, adding Scottish people will finally be allowed to follow England's coronavirus lockdown rules soon after May 28. She said: “The roadmap we publish on Thursday will give a more detailed indication of the order in which we will carefully and gradually seek to lift current restrictions. Like other countries, we will not yet be able to put firm dates on all of the different phases because timings must be driven by data and evidence and it will also be important that we assess the impact of measures in one phase before moving on to another.
“We will continue to take a cautious approach that ensures the virus is suppressed while seeking to restore as much normality as possible when it is safe to do so. “Thursday’s road map will confirm that assuming that we see progress in suppressing the virus, the first phase will start from the next phase will start from the formal review date of the 28th of May. “Within a few days of that, we will aim to allow for example more outdoor activity such as being able to sit in the park, meet up outdoors with someone from another household as long as you stay socially distant, some limited outdoor sporting activity like golf and fishing. “The opening of gardening centres and recycling facilities and the resumption of some outdoor work.” READ MORE: 'Be honest!' Nicola Sturgeon under fire over 'coronavirus cover-up'
Nicola Sturgeon announces extension of testing facilities for anyone above 5 with symptoms
Nicola Sturgeon announced a new road map for the easing of lockdown will be revealed this week
The First Minister added: "Within two weeks, my hope is that we will be taking some concrete steps on the journey back to normality. "As I've said before, it won't be normality as we knew it because the virus will not have gone away, but it will be a journey to a better balance - I hope - than the one we have today. "As we take each step, we must make sure that the ground beneath us is as solid as possible. "That's why sticking with the lockdown restrictions a bit longer to suppress the virus more is so important, because that will mean we can start to take these steps with the confidence that we have alternative means of effectively keeping it under control." The First Minister said for the moment there is no change to the lockdown advice currently being circulated by the Scottish Government.
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Nicola Sturgeon says Scottish public back lockdown approach
A total of 2,105 patients have died in Scotland after testing positive for coronavirus, up by two from 2,103 on Sunday, Nicola Sturgeon has announced. Ms Sturgeon said there are 1,427 patients in hospital with confirmed or suspected Covid-19, up 119 from 1,308 on Sunday. Of these, 63 were in intensive care, a rise of four. She issued a note of caution over the death figures, saying although deaths can be registered at the weekend, registrations tend to be lower. DON'T MISS:
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Coronavirus UK lockdown stages
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