thedailyexpress--2020-04-16--Rishi Sunak sends EU leaders into a panic with promise to complete deal on December 31

Last month , the UK and European Union opened talks on a post- Brexit free trade agreement , with the first round of negotiations taking place in Brussels .
A team led by Boris Johnson 's chief negotiator David Frost traveled to the Belgian capital to begin crunch talks with representatives led by EU counterpart Michel Barnier .
Further face-to-face talks have been postponed as Europe focuses on the current coronavirus pandemic , with the negotiating pair instead holding virtual talks today to discuss next week ’ s Brexit negotiation round .
Boris warned not to delay Brexit and leave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hold-up has increased pressure on the UK to extend the transition period beyond this year .
The UK has until June 30 to request a delay .
But Rishi Sunak has echoed warnings from the Prime Minister that a deal must be completed this year , and the transition period will not be extended beyond December 31 .
The Chancellor made this clear at the Downing Street press conference with the media last night , Politico has reported .
But the increasingly stubborn stance in light of the EU now having to fight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talks on hold has left officials throughout the bloc stunned .

Rishi Sunak says UK is 'committed to Brexit timeline'
Last month, the UK and European Union opened talks on a post-Brexit free trade agreement, with the first round of negotiations taking place in Brussels. A team led by Boris Johnson's chief negotiator David Frost traveled to the Belgian capital to begin crunch talks with representatives led by EU counterpart Michel Barnier. Further face-to-face talks have been postponed as Europe focuses on the current coronavirus pandemic, with the negotiating pair instead holding virtual talks on Friday to discuss next week’s Brexit negotiation round.
The hold-up has increased pressure on the UK to extend the transition period beyond this year. The UK has until June 30 to request a delay. But Rishi Sunak has echoed warnings from the Prime Minister that a deal must be completed this year, and the transition period will not be extended beyond December 31. The Chancellor made this clear at the Downing Street press conference with the media last night, Politico has reported. But the increasingly stubborn stance in light of the EU now having to fight the spread of coronavirus and putting Brexit talks on hold has left officials throughout the bloc stunned.
Brexit news: Rishi Sunak has warned the UK will not look for an extension to the transition period
Brexit news: The Chancellor insisted 'we remain committed to the timeline for concluding those talks'
We have left the European Union – that has happened. We are just negotiating the final terms of our trading arrangements. That work is carrying on. Rishi Sunak
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One EU official told Politico: “Let’s be honest: the political leadership is focused on something else now. If your house is on fire, that’s your first and sole priority.” Last week, Mr Sunak dismissed growing calls transition period to be extended beyond the end of 2020. He said: “We have left the European Union – that has happened. "We are just negotiating the final terms of our trading arrangements. That work is carrying on." READ MORE: UK fishing row: How Iceland 'suffered from colonial exploitation'
Despite the current situation being on "talks about talks", the Chancellor continued to insist: “We remain committed to the timeline for concluding those talks.” Britain officially left the EU on January 31 following several months of delays. Mr Johnson has since continued to demand a free trade agreement be struck with Brussels before the end of the transition period - and that stance has not changed, despite Europe struggling to manage the coronavirus outbreak. Leading EU figureheads, including Mr Barnier and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen have urged the Prime Minister to reconsider. DON'T MISS
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Brexit news: The UK and EU opened talks over a free trade agreement last month
Brexit news: Boris Johnson has continued to insist the transition period won't be extended
But last week, the UK Government continued to insist Mr Johnson had "no intention of changing" the end of the transition period. A spokeswoman said: "We remain fully committed to the negotiations and discussions with the Commission are continuing. "Chief negotiators, David Frost and Michel Barnier, will speak next week to agree a timetable for the negotiations in April and May."
The Prime Minister held talks with Ursula von der Leyen at 10 downing Street
Brexit news: The deadline for extending the transition period is June 30
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thedailyexpress--2020-04-15--Ruth Davidson cheers Nicola Sturgeon U-turn after pressure to match England's business pay

On Wednesday morning the Scottish Government bowed to pressure to match the UK ’ s support for business owners during the COVID-19 crisis , by announcing grants for firms with multiple properties .
The move was branded a “ U-turn ” by the Scottish Tories .
In a change to its initial stance , Holyrood has said it will extend grants to small companies with more than one premises , with 75 percent of the grant available for each subsequent property in an investment of £120million .
Finance Secretary Kate Forbes originally announced small businesses and those in the hospitality @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to £10,000 and £25,000 respectively While the announcement was widely welcomed , some firms and opposition politicians argued businesses with multiple locations could lose out .
“ Small businesses still not getting same as down south but ‘ in addition to a 100 percent grant on the first property , small business rate payers will be eligible to a 75 percent grant on all subsequent properties ’ helps.
” Economy Secretary Fiona Hyslop claimed the Scottish Government would be `` replicating '' the Westminster plans north of the border but the grant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to claim cash for multiple properties .
Announcing the revised plans , Ms Forbes said : `` We are doing everything we can to support business at this difficult time and we continue to listen to and engage with the sector .
`` Our support for business now exceeds the £2.2 billion passed on from the UK Government and actively works to fill the gaps in the UK schemes .
`` Around 100,000 businesses in total are already eligible for our small business grants and from today we will be extending that scheme @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the front-line of this economic crisis . ''
READ MORE : Parents feafrul as schools reopen – ‘ My child wo n't be Guinea pig ! '
Mr Carlaw said the changes should have been made earlier , arguing the Scottish Government would need to show the benefits of diverging from UK Government policy .
He added : `` Nicola Sturgeon was n't able to do so in this case and I 'm glad she 's finally realised her mistakes in this critical issue . ''
The grant extension will be available for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ million fund will be open by the end of April .
The Scottish Government has also announced plans to rollout a £100 million fund for businesses ineligible for other types of support , including those who are self-employed .
Speaking about the expansion of support for businesses , First Minister Ms Sturgeon said the Scottish Government was addressing an issue raised by businesses with them .
She added that the funding for businesses now exceeded the £2.2billion sent from Westminster as `` Barnett consequentials '' .

Nicola Sturgeon confronted over doing ‘too little too late’
On Wednesday morning the Scottish Government bowed to pressure to match the UK’s support for business owners during the COVID-19 crisis, by announcing grants for firms with multiple properties. The move was branded a “U-turn” by the Scottish Tories. In a change to its initial stance, Holyrood has said it will extend grants to small companies with more than one premises, with 75 percent of the grant available for each subsequent property in an investment of £120million.
Finance Secretary Kate Forbes originally announced small businesses and those in the hospitality sector would be eligible for grants of up to £10,000 and £25,000 respectively While the announcement was widely welcomed, some firms and opposition politicians argued businesses with multiple locations could lose out. Ms Davidson tweeted: “Finally! Partial U-turn from Scottish government. “Small businesses still not getting same as down south but ‘in addition to a 100 percent grant on the first property, small business rate payers will be eligible to a 75 percent grant on all subsequent properties’ helps.”
Nicola Sturgeon announced new help for small Scottish businesses
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has come under fire for her response to coronavirus
Economy Secretary Fiona Hyslop claimed the Scottish Government would be "replicating" the Westminster plans north of the border but the grant scheme in England and Wales allowed businesses to claim cash for multiple properties. Announcing the revised plans, Ms Forbes said: "We are doing everything we can to support business at this difficult time and we continue to listen to and engage with the sector. "Our support for business now exceeds the £2.2 billion passed on from the UK Government and actively works to fill the gaps in the UK schemes. "Around 100,000 businesses in total are already eligible for our small business grants and from today we will be extending that scheme in response to feedback from businesses on the front-line of this economic crisis." READ MORE: Parents feafrul as schools reopen – ‘My child won't be Guinea pig!'
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Scottish Tory MSP Ruth Davidson branded Ms Sturgeon's move a 'U-turn'
Scottish paramedics pictured wearing protective gear
Workers build a coronavirus field hospital in Glasgow
Mr Carlaw said the changes should have been made earlier, arguing the Scottish Government would need to show the benefits of diverging from UK Government policy. He added: "Nicola Sturgeon wasn't able to do so in this case and I'm glad she's finally realised her mistakes in this critical issue." The grant extension will be available for applications from May 5 and the £100 million fund will be open by the end of April.
GMB: Sturgeon says measures for lifting lockdown ‘underway’
The Scottish Government has also announced plans to rollout a £100 million fund for businesses ineligible for other types of support, including those who are self-employed. Speaking about the expansion of support for businesses, First Minister Ms Sturgeon said the Scottish Government was addressing an issue raised by businesses with them. She added that the funding for businesses now exceeded the £2.2billion sent from Westminster as "Barnett consequentials".
Scottish Tory leader Jackson Carlaw said his party was to thank for the extra help for businesses
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thedailyexpress--2020-04-15--'Sheer madness!' Farage attacks Government decision to approve HS2 in midst of coronavirus

HS2 Ltd , the Government-owned company which is overseeing the project , was granted approval to issue a notice to proceed to firms contracted to design and construct bridges , tunnels , embankments and viaducts .
In February , Prime Minister Boris Johnson green-lit the ambitious scheme , despite warnings by the Government-commissioned Oakervee Review suggesting the final bill could reach £106 billion at 2019 prices .
Brexit Party leader Mr Farage , a longstanding critic of the HS2 , tweeted : `` We are in the worst economic crisis for 300 years and the government still wants to spend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ madness . ''
Also on Twitter , Brexit campaigner Darren Grimes commented : `` Hells bells .
We ’ re broke and haven ’ t a pot to pee in now .
`` Is a train that many will be unable to afford to use really the priority ?
To cut 20 minutes from a journey to London ? ''
Justifying the decision , HS2 Minister Andrew Stephenson said while Government 's main priority was combating the spread of coronavirus `` we can not delay work on our long-term plan to level up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` This next step provides thousands of construction workers and businesses across the country with certainty at a time when they need it , and means that work can truly begin on delivering this transformational project . ''
HS2 Ltd chief executive Mark Thurston said the decision offered `` an immediate boost to the construction industry '' by ensuring contractors and their supply chains can have `` confidence that they can commit to building HS2 '' .
The UK 's construction industry employs more than two million workers , producing roughly six percent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
JUST IN : End of EU - ex-German MEP warns over Macron 's spending plans for EU Large numbers of building sites are closed during lockdown , while some are open with fewer workers than normal to ensure they comply with social distancing guidelines .
A campaign has been launched to close all building sites because of the threat to workers .
Four joint ventures were awarded main works civil contracts totalling £12 billion for phase one of HS2 in July 2017 .
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’ Boris Johnson ’ s prioritising of HS2 ' a disgrace ' [ ANALYSIS ] HS2 scandal : Two employees given £200,000 pay-offs of YOUR cash [ REVEALED ] Shares in Costain leapt by a third in reaction to the news that a notice to proceed has been issued .
Preparatory work at some HS2 sites is on hold after a review of what operations can be carried out in accordance with the current coronavirus guidance - but HS2 Ltd said the four joint ventures will `` start work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ preparation work and the issuing of sub-contracts .
Companies will impose social distancing measures , as well as providing facilities for regular hand washing .
Single occupancy of vehicles will be required unless agreed in advance .
Eamon O'Hearn , national officer of the GMB union , said : `` GMB wants to protect workers ' jobs , health and pay .

Darren Grimes urges Boris Johnson to 'scrap HS2'
We are in the worst economic crisis for 300 years and the government still wants to spend £100bn+ on the HS2 line, sheer madness Nigel Farage
HS2 Ltd, the Government-owned company which is overseeing the project, was granted approval to issue a notice to proceed to firms contracted to design and construct bridges, tunnels, embankments and viaducts. In February, Prime Minister Boris Johnson green-lit the ambitious scheme, despite warnings by the Government-commissioned Oakervee Review suggesting the final bill could reach £106 billion at 2019 prices. Brexit Party leader Mr Farage, a longstanding critic of the HS2, tweeted: "We are in the worst economic crisis for 300 years and the government still wants to spend £100bn+ on the HS2 line, sheer madness."
Also on Twitter, Brexit campaigner Darren Grimes commented: "Hells bells. We’re broke and haven’t a pot to pee in now. "Is a train that many will be unable to afford to use really the priority? To cut 20 minutes from a journey to London?" Justifying the decision, HS2 Minister Andrew Stephenson said while Government's main priority was combating the spread of coronavirus "we cannot delay work on our long-term plan to level up the country". Back Express.co.uk's NHS Heroes campaign
Nigel Farage said the decision was "madness"
Boris Johnson gave the project the green light in February
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He added: "This next step provides thousands of construction workers and businesses across the country with certainty at a time when they need it, and means that work can truly begin on delivering this transformational project." HS2 Ltd chief executive Mark Thurston said the decision offered "an immediate boost to the construction industry" by ensuring contractors and their supply chains can have "confidence that they can commit to building HS2". The UK's construction industry employs more than two million workers, producing roughly six percent of the country's total economic output. JUST IN: End of EU - ex-German MEP warns over Macron's spending plans for EU
Artist's impression of an HS2 train on the Birmingham and Fazeley viaduct
Nigel Farage's tweet
Brexit campaigner Darren Grimes was likewise critical
They are: SCS Railways (Skanska Construction UK, Costain and Strabag) Align joint venture (Bouygues Travaux Publics, Sir Robert McAlpine and VolkerFitzpatrick) EKFB joint venture (Eiffage Genie Civil SA, Kier Infrastructure and Overseas, Ferrovial Agroman and BAM Nuttall) BBV joint venture (Balfour Beatty Group, Vinci Construction Grands Projets, Vinci Construction UK and Vinci Construction Terrassement)
Boris Johnson reacts during his visit to Curzon Street railway
Shares in Costain leapt by a third in reaction to the news that a notice to proceed has been issued. Preparatory work at some HS2 sites is on hold after a review of what operations can be carried out in accordance with the current coronavirus guidance - but HS2 Ltd said the four joint ventures will "start work immediately" on detailed designs, site preparation work and the issuing of sub-contracts. Companies will impose social distancing measures, as well as providing facilities for regular hand washing. Single occupancy of vehicles will be required unless agreed in advance. Eamon O'Hearn, national officer of the GMB union, said: "GMB wants to protect workers' jobs, health and pay.
Boris Johnson and Andy Street, West Midlands Mayor, at the site of the new HS2 line at Curzon Street, Birmingham in February
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thedailyexpress--2020-04-15--Coronavirus crisis: Chancellor ‘deeply troubled’ over warnings of economy shrinking by 35%

Calling on a huge national effort in the war against the deadly disease the Chancellor promised any hit to the economy would be `` temporary '' and that the recovery is one that `` we are all in together '' .
But he warned of `` more tough times to come '' amid warnings the economy faces shrinking by 35 percent if the lockdown continues for three months , with two million people made jobless .
Mr Sunak 's remarks came after staggering analysis from the Office for Budget Responsibility predicted the UK 's economy will fall dramatically if we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` When I see these numbers , I am deeply troubled .
`` This is going to be hard .
Our economy is going to take a significant hit and as I 've said before that 's not an abstract thing .
People are going to feel that in their jobs and in their household incomes . ''
Mr Sunak said people should brace for `` hardship '' but insisted the hit from the lockdown measures designed to combat the virus would only be short term .
And he flatly dismissed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ propping up the economy and stopping people dying from the outbreak , saying the Government would always protect lives first .
The Office for Budget Responsibility , an independent financial watchdog , said curbs staying in place for three months , followed by a similar period of partial restrictions , will slash GDP by more than a third .
Unemployment will soar to 3.4 million and the Government 's deficit will skyrocket to £273billion , it was claimed .
The OBR also warned that GDP would plummet by 13 percent this year , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Its gloomy analysis came as the UK 's death toll from Covid-19 reached 12,107 yesterday , following a leap of 778 from the previous day 's total .
Britain 's three-week lockdown lasts until tomorrow , but ministers are widely expected to extend it until May 7 , a total of six weeks .
Any exit is likely to involve a partial easing of the measures , as seen this week in Spain and Italy .
Concerns have also been raised that it is impossible to lift the curbs at the moment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of them staying in place , and would simply refuse to go back to normal .
A Government source said last night : `` Our strategy is focused on saving lives .
We have been clear that all decisions will be guided by the scientific advice and data .
`` Talk of an exit strategy before we have reached the peak risks confusing the critical message that people need to stay at home in order to protect our NHS and save lives . ''
But the OBR 's economic figures will have sent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the data during the daily Downing Street coronavirus briefing , the Chancellor said : `` These are tough times and there will be more to come .
As I have said before , we can not protect every business and every household .
`` Right now , the single most important thing we can do for the health of our economy is to protect the health of our people .
`` It is not a case of choosing between the economy and public health .
`` Common sense tells us that doing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time when we are seeing hundreds of people dying every day from this terrible disease , the absolute priority must be to focus all of our resources in a collective national effort to beat this virus . ''
Mr Sunak said the efforts of everyone in the country will help `` right the ship '' .

Rishi Sunak discusses 'serious implications' to UK economy
Calling on a huge national effort in the war against the deadly disease the Chancellor promised any hit to the economy would be "temporary" and that the recovery is one that "we are all in together". But he warned of "more tough times to come" amid warnings the economy faces shrinking by 35 percent if the lockdown continues for three months, with two million people made jobless.
Mr Sunak's remarks came after staggering analysis from the Office for Budget Responsibility predicted the UK's economy will fall dramatically if we remain in a prolonged lockdown. He said: "When I see these numbers, I am deeply troubled. "This is going to be hard. Our economy is going to take a significant hit and as I've said before that's not an abstract thing. People are going to feel that in their jobs and in their household incomes." Mr Sunak said people should brace for "hardship" but insisted the hit from the lockdown measures designed to combat the virus would only be short term. And he flatly dismissed the idea that ministers must choose between propping up the economy and stopping people dying from the outbreak, saying the Government would always protect lives first. The Office for Budget Responsibility, an independent financial watchdog, said curbs staying in place for three months, followed by a similar period of partial restrictions, will slash GDP by more than a third. Unemployment will soar to 3.4 million and the Government's deficit will skyrocket to £273billion, it was claimed.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak
The OBR also warned that GDP would plummet by 13 percent this year, worse than anything in the past century. Its gloomy analysis came as the UK's death toll from Covid-19 reached 12,107 yesterday, following a leap of 778 from the previous day's total. Britain's three-week lockdown lasts until tomorrow, but ministers are widely expected to extend it until May 7, a total of six weeks. Any exit is likely to involve a partial easing of the measures, as seen this week in Spain and Italy. Concerns have also been raised that it is impossible to lift the curbs at the moment as the public is strongly in favour of them staying in place, and would simply refuse to go back to normal. A Government source said last night: "Our strategy is focused on saving lives. We have been clear that all decisions will be guided by the scientific advice and data. "Talk of an exit strategy before we have reached the peak risks confusing the critical message that people need to stay at home in order to protect our NHS and save lives."
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But the OBR's economic figures will have sent shock waves through the Government. Responding to the data during the daily Downing Street coronavirus briefing, the Chancellor said: "These are tough times and there will be more to come. As I have said before, we cannot protect every business and every household. "Right now, the single most important thing we can do for the health of our economy is to protect the health of our people. "It is not a case of choosing between the economy and public health. "Common sense tells us that doing so would be self-defeating. At a time when we are seeing hundreds of people dying every day from this terrible disease, the absolute priority must be to focus all of our resources in a collective national effort to beat this virus." Mr Sunak said the efforts of everyone in the country will help "right the ship".


thedailyexpress--2020-04-15--New York Governor Cuomo warns Trump is 'spoiling for fight' over coronavirus authority

But President Trump on Monday said that such a decision was down to the President , and that he has “ total authority ” over the issue .
But in a press briefing yesterday , Governor Cuomo issued a rebuttal , stating that President Trump ’ s claim was “ factually wrong.
” He said : “ The statement that he [ Donald Trump ] has total authority over the states and the nation can not go uncorrected .
“ It ’ s not only violative of the constitution ; it ’ s violative of the very concept of democracy.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ yesterday comparing the situation to that of a mutiny .
He wrote : “ A good old fashioned mutiny every now and then is an exciting and invigorating thing to watch , especially when the mutineers need so much from the Captain .
Too easy !
” And in a separate tweet , President Trump singled out Cuomo , claiming that the New York governor had been “ calling daily , even hourly ” to ask for assistance in the form of new hospitals and ventilators , “ which should have been the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ I got it all done for him , and everyone else , and now he seems to want Independence !
That won ’ t happen !
” Addressing the president ’ s comments , Governor Cuomo said : “ The president is clearly spoiling for a fight on this issue .
“ If he wants a fight , he ’ s not going to get it from me , period .
This is going to take us working together.
” New York has recently reported a fall in the total number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time since the outbreak .
Governor Cuomo said : “ We think we are at the apex ; on the plateau.
” READ MORE : Millions face losing jobs in deepest recession for '300 years '

Donald Trump slams ‘fake’ reporter during coronavirus briefing
The comments come after a day of back-and-forth remarks after it emerged that state governors, including Governor Cuomo, had been forming taskforces to plan a route to easing coronavirus lockdowns in their respective states.
But President Trump on Monday said that such a decision was down to the President, and that he has “total authority” over the issue. But in a press briefing yesterday, Governor Cuomo issued a rebuttal, stating that President Trump’s claim was “factually wrong.” He said: “The statement that he [Donald Trump] has total authority over the states and the nation cannot go uncorrected. “It’s not only violative of the constitution; it’s violative of the very concept of democracy.”
Donald Trump compared governor's actions to that of a mutiny in a tweet.
President Trump also wrote a tweet yesterday comparing the situation to that of a mutiny. He wrote: “A good old fashioned mutiny every now and then is an exciting and invigorating thing to watch, especially when the mutineers need so much from the Captain. Too easy!” And in a separate tweet, President Trump singled out Cuomo, claiming that the New York governor had been “calling daily, even hourly” to ask for assistance in the form of new hospitals and ventilators, “which should have been the state’s responsibility.” He continued: “I got it all done for him, and everyone else, and now he seems to want Independence! That won’t happen!”
The past week has seen some back and forth remarks between governors including Cuomo, pictured, and Trump.
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Addressing the president’s comments, Governor Cuomo said: “The president is clearly spoiling for a fight on this issue. “If he wants a fight, he’s not going to get it from me, period. This is going to take us working together.” New York has recently reported a fall in the total number of people hospitalised there for the first time since the outbreak. Governor Cuomo said: “We think we are at the apex; on the plateau.” READ MORE: Millions face losing jobs in deepest recession for '300 years'
Donald Trump suggested that the WHO had withheld Covid-19 information.
The world saw another devastating rise in COVID 19 deaths yesterday
He said that US funding would be halted “while a review is conducted to assess the World Health Organisation’s role in severely mismanaging and covering up the spread of the coronavirus. “ He added: “Everybody knows what’s going on there.” He claimed US taxpayers pay between $400 million and $500 million per year to the WHO.
Nancy Pelosi, pictured here in 2016, issued a letter regarding Trump's announcements.
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thedailyexpress--2020-04-14--Boris Johnson has NOTHING to worry about from 'Corbyn tribute act' Keir Starmer - poll

Sir Keir Starmer was elected Labour Party leader at the start of this month , replacing Jeremy Corbyn , who oversaw a crushing defeat for the party in December ’ s general election – handing the Prime Minister and his Conservative Party the huge majority required to push Brexit through Parliament .
The former director of public prosecutions , a strong Remainer supporter who opposed the UK ’ s departure from the European Union , won with 56 percent of the vote , defeating leadership rivals Rebecca Long-Bailey and Lisa Nandy .
Many centrist Labour politicians hailed the result as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ position pushed by Mr Corbyn and a sign the Tory Government could be challenged over the next few years .
The early signs for Sir Keir were encouraging , with Mr Johnson congratulating him on Twitter and the pair agreeing on the importance of working together – particularly in the joint effort to defeat the coronavirus pandemic .
But in our latest poll , Express.co.uk readers have strongly dismissed any threat the new Labour leader might pose to the Prime Minister and the current huge dominance being enjoyed by his Conservative Party .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Monday April 13 until 9.30am on Tuesday April 14 and saw 8,736 votes cast , asked : “ Should Boris Johnson be worried about Keir Starmer in opposition ?
” Express.co.uk readers overwhelmingly rejected any possibility of this from happening , with 85.7 percent ( 7,490 readers ) believing the new Labour leader poses absolutely no threat to the Prime Minister .
Just 12.9 percent ( 1,130 readers ) said Sir Keir could worry the Prime Minister as new Labour leader , while the remaining 1.4 percent ( 116 readers ) voted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The poll saw Express.co.uk readers launch a savage attack on Sir Keir , branding him a “ Corbyn tribute act ” , and claiming the heavily-left foundations of the party will not change under his leadership .
One person said : “ Starmer had the opportunity to move the party back towards the centre ground .
It meant sticking the finger up to Momentum and McCluskey .
“ His choice of approach and his Shadow Cabinet shows he has not moved the ground much , but Momentum do n't trust him .
READ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of ‘ no opposition ’ have come to 'abrupt end' “ In fact , his entire Shadow Cabinet is one of total Remainers .
The electorate will see through that , and I expect a motion/policy to re-join the EU will not be long in coming .
A second reader commented : “ To be a viable threat you have to have a viable alternative set of policies that are popular with the electorate .
Starmer has neither of these options , consequently he is not a threat.
” Another person said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on his shoulder and directing the agenda as they will still control Labours NEC , so nothing will change until Momentum are kicked out . ''
DO N'T MISS Labour returns to ‘ bleating on ’ about ‘ chaotic ’ Brexit [ COMMENT ] Excruciating moment Keir Starmer squirms in BRUTAL Peston grilling [ VIDEO ] Britons furious at calls for Labour to lead country with Tories [ OPINION ] Others are furious Sir Keir is still pushing the Remain agenda that heavily dominated Mr Corbyn ’ s reign as Labour leader , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as long as this is still the case .
One reader wrote : `` The first thing Starmer did upon getting his hands on the Labour leadership was to start his antics again .
Remoaning and carrying on . ''
A second person commented : “ Starmer is a mealy-mouthed leftist Remainer .
I will never vote for him . ''
Another reader said : `` The second he opened his mouth on his maiden speech and bashed Brexit , his future was sealed . ''
Labour , which had several years of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brown , endured its worst election result since 1935 in December .
Voters turned against the party following months of infighting over strategy , a confusing Brexit position and allegations of unchecked anti-Semitism .
The opposition lost several of its traditional heartlands , some of which had been dominated by Labour for dozens of years , in what proved to be the ultimate humiliation for Mr Corbyn , who eventually announced his decision to step down .
The election result was all the more humiliating as Boris Johnson had only been Prime Minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in July .

Keir Starmer quizzed on if he marks ‘the end of Corbynism’
Sir Keir Starmer was elected Labour Party leader at the start of this month, replacing Jeremy Corbyn, who oversaw a crushing defeat for the party in December’s general election – handing the Prime Minister and his Conservative Party the huge majority required to push Brexit through Parliament. The former director of public prosecutions, a strong Remainer supporter who opposed the UK’s departure from the European Union, won with 56 percent of the vote, defeating leadership rivals Rebecca Long-Bailey and Lisa Nandy. Many centrist Labour politicians hailed the result as a big move away the far left position pushed by Mr Corbyn and a sign the Tory Government could be challenged over the next few years.
The early signs for Sir Keir were encouraging, with Mr Johnson congratulating him on Twitter and the pair agreeing on the importance of working together – particularly in the joint effort to defeat the coronavirus pandemic. But in our latest poll, Express.co.uk readers have strongly dismissed any threat the new Labour leader might pose to the Prime Minister and the current huge dominance being enjoyed by his Conservative Party. The poll, which ran from 3pm on Monday April 13 until 9.30am on Tuesday April 14 and saw 8,736 votes cast, asked: “Should Boris Johnson be worried about Keir Starmer in opposition?” Express.co.uk readers overwhelmingly rejected any possibility of this from happening, with 85.7 percent (7,490 readers) believing the new Labour leader poses absolutely no threat to the Prime Minister.
Boris Johnson has nothing to worry about from new leader Keir Starmer, according to our latest poll
Sir Keir Starmer is the new Labour Party leader
Just 12.9 percent (1,130 readers) said Sir Keir could worry the Prime Minister as new Labour leader, while the remaining 1.4 percent (116 readers) voted “don’t know”. The poll saw Express.co.uk readers launch a savage attack on Sir Keir, branding him a “Corbyn tribute act”, and claiming the heavily-left foundations of the party will not change under his leadership. One person said: “Starmer had the opportunity to move the party back towards the centre ground. It meant sticking the finger up to Momentum and McCluskey. “His choice of approach and his Shadow Cabinet shows he has not moved the ground much, but Momentum don't trust him. READ MORE: Boris warning: Five years of ‘no opposition’ have come to 'abrupt end'
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The new Labour leader has been branded a 'Corbyn tribute act'
“In fact, his entire Shadow Cabinet is one of total Remainers. The electorate will see through that, and I expect a motion/policy to re-join the EU will not be long in coming. “Boris need not fear a Corbyn tribute act.” A second reader commented: “To be a viable threat you have to have a viable alternative set of policies that are popular with the electorate. Starmer has neither of these options, consequently he is not a threat.” Another person said: "Starmer will still have Momentum sitting on his shoulder and directing the agenda as they will still control Labours NEC, so nothing will change until Momentum are kicked out." DON'T MISS
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Sir Keir Starmer defeated Rebecca Long-Bailey and Lisa Nandy in the Labour leadership contest
Jeremy Corbyn oversaw a disastrous general election result for Labour
Others are furious Sir Keir is still pushing the Remain agenda that heavily dominated Mr Corbyn’s reign as Labour leader, and vowed never to vote for him as long as this is still the case. One reader wrote: "The first thing Starmer did upon getting his hands on the Labour leadership was to start his antics again. Remoaning and carrying on." A second person commented: “Starmer is a mealy-mouthed leftist Remainer. I will never vote for him." Another reader said: "The second he opened his mouth on his maiden speech and bashed Brexit, his future was sealed."
Voters' major reasons for not sticking with Labour
Labour, which had several years of electorate success under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, endured its worst election result since 1935 in December. Voters turned against the party following months of infighting over strategy, a confusing Brexit position and allegations of unchecked anti-Semitism. The opposition lost several of its traditional heartlands, some of which had been dominated by Labour for dozens of years, in what proved to be the ultimate humiliation for Mr Corbyn, who eventually announced his decision to step down. The election result was all the more humiliating as Boris Johnson had only been Prime Minister for five months after replacing Theresa May in July.
Sir Keir Starmer immediately acknowledged the scale of the task ahead
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thedailyexpress--2020-04-14--Labour POLL: Should Boris Johnson be worried about Keir Starmer in opposition?

Labour Party leader Keir Starmer has pledged to bring an end to years of bitter infighting and work with the Government when it is the right thing to do , while testing Boris Johnson ’ s arguments and challenging the failures .
The defeat of Rebecca Long-Bailey - an ally of the outgoing leader Jeremy Corbyn - and the election of Angela Rayner as Mr Starmer ’ s deputy , heralded the end of the party leadership ’ s embrace of a radical socialism that was crushed in the December election .
THIS POLL IS NOW CLOSED .
CLICK HERE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ congratulated Mr Starmer on Twitter and the pair agreed on the importance of working together .
But Express.co.uk is asking you should Prime Minister Mr Johnson be worried about the threat in the wake of Mr Starmer 's appointment as new party opposition leader ?
Mr Starmer , a former director of public prosecutions who is well known for opposing the country ’ s exit from the EU , won with 56 percent of the vote .
And many centrist Labour politicians celebrated the result as a sign that the current Tory government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Corbyn 's ally Ms Long-Bailey came second in the party ’ s vote with 28 percent and Lisa Nandy was third with 16 percent .
The party of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown endured its worst election performance since 1935 in December , when infighting over strategy , a confused policy over Brexit and allegations of unchecked anti-Semitism turned traditional voters away .
READ MORE : Keir Starmer savaged by own Labour supporters for lame tweet about NHS Mr Starmer , who took over immediately , acknowledged the scale of the task ahead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Johnson ’ s Conservatives have also occupied much of traditional Labour territory , with the coronavirus crisis prompting the ruling party to deliver unprecedented state support to workers and businesses .
Mr Starmer said : “ This is my pledge to the British people .
I will do my utmost to guide us through these difficult times , to serve all of our communities and to strive for the good of our country .
DO N'T MISS Starmer left speechless as Sky News ' host destroys Labour argument [ VIDEO ] Labour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Twitter tells him to man-up [ INSIGHT ] Starmer under threat as 'Corbynista ' left plots to regain control [ REVEALED ] “ I will lead this great party into a new era , with confidence and with hope.
” Mr Starmer said once the country emerges on the other side , once the hospital wards have emptied and the threat subsided , it would need to build a fairer society , where key workers on the front line receive decent salaries and better chances in life .
He added : “ Our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same as the government ’ s , to save lives . ''
It comes after Mr Starmer was accused of lamely tweeting like an 'angry member of the public ' rather than acting as the leader of Her Majesty 's Opposition .
The new Labour leader was savaged for opportunistic yet pointless empty rhetoric after tweeting his outrage at the lack of personal protective equipment accessible to NHS staff .
Keir Starmer tweeted : `` It is quite frankly insulting to imply frontline staff are wasting PPE .

Keir Starmer calls for 'urgent talks' with government
Labour Party leader Keir Starmer has pledged to bring an end to years of bitter infighting and work with the Government when it is the right thing to do, while testing Boris Johnson’s arguments and challenging the failures. The defeat of Rebecca Long-Bailey - an ally of the outgoing leader Jeremy Corbyn - and the election of Angela Rayner as Mr Starmer’s deputy, heralded the end of the party leadership’s embrace of a radical socialism that was crushed in the December election. THIS POLL IS NOW CLOSED. CLICK HERE FOR THE RESULTS.
Mr Johnson immediately congratulated Mr Starmer on Twitter and the pair agreed on the importance of working together. But Express.co.uk is asking you should Prime Minister Mr Johnson be worried about the threat in the wake of Mr Starmer's appointment as new party opposition leader? Mr Starmer, a former director of public prosecutions who is well known for opposing the country’s exit from the EU, won with 56 percent of the vote. BACK BRITAIN'S BRAVE NHS HEROES - CLICK HERE NOW
Labour poll: Should Boris Johnson be worried about Keir Starmer?
And many centrist Labour politicians celebrated the result as a sign that the current Tory government would finally face proper scrutiny. Mr Corbyn's ally Ms Long-Bailey came second in the party’s vote with 28 percent and Lisa Nandy was third with 16 percent. The party of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown endured its worst election performance since 1935 in December, when infighting over strategy, a confused policy over Brexit and allegations of unchecked anti-Semitism turned traditional voters away. READ MORE: Keir Starmer savaged by own Labour supporters for lame tweet about NHS
Labour Party leader Keir Starmer could be a threat to Boris Johnson
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Mr Starmer, who took over immediately, acknowledged the scale of the task ahead. Well ahead in opinion polls, Mr Johnson’s Conservatives have also occupied much of traditional Labour territory, with the coronavirus crisis prompting the ruling party to deliver unprecedented state support to workers and businesses. Mr Starmer said: “This is my pledge to the British people. I will do my utmost to guide us through these difficult times, to serve all of our communities and to strive for the good of our country. DON'T MISS
Starmer left speechless as Sky News' host destroys Labour argument [VIDEO]
Labour mob rule? Starmer attacks PM after Twitter tells him to man-up [INSIGHT]
Starmer under threat as 'Corbynista' left plots to regain control [REVEALED]
Labour Party leader Keir Starmer has pledged to work with the government
Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn was in power for four-and-a-half years
“I will lead this great party into a new era, with confidence and with hope.” Mr Starmer said once the country emerges on the other side, once the hospital wards have emptied and the threat subsided, it would need to build a fairer society, where key workers on the front line receive decent salaries and better chances in life. He added: “Our purpose when we do that is the same as the government’s, to save lives."
Labour was crushed in the December elections
It comes after Mr Starmer was accused of lamely tweeting like an 'angry member of the public' rather than acting as the leader of Her Majesty's Opposition. The new Labour leader was savaged for opportunistic yet pointless empty rhetoric after tweeting his outrage at the lack of personal protective equipment accessible to NHS staff. Keir Starmer tweeted: "It is quite frankly insulting to imply frontline staff are wasting PPE.
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thedailyexpress--2020-04-14--Carrie Symonds baby due date: When is Boris Johnson and Carrie's baby due?

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is engaged to environmental campaigner Carrie Symonds and the pair are also expecting a baby .
The couple had been living together in Downing Street , but due to Mr Johnson contracting coronavirus , the pair have recently been living apart .
Both Ms Symonds and Mr Johnson had coronavirus symptoms , with the Prime Minster testing positive for COVID-19 .
Ms Symonds , 31 , revealed on Twitter she had experienced coronavirus symptoms but had not been tested for the virus writing : “ I ’ ve spent the past week in bed with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ haven ’ t needed to be tested and , after seven days of rest , I feel stronger and I ’ m on the mend.
” In a second post , Ms Symonds posted a link to the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists ( RCOG ) advice page for pregnant women .
• UK housing industry tells Boris Johnson ‘ we must get back to work ’ She said : “ Being pregnant with Covid-19 is obviously worrying .
To other pregnant women , please do read and follow the most up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be v reassuring.
” Current advice from the RCOG says viral infections can “ occasionally be related to more severe symptoms and this will be the same for COVID-19 ” .
But the RCOG said current expert opinion is unborn babies are unlikely to be exposed to COVID-19 during pregnancy .
There is also no data at the moment which suggests an increased risk of miscarriage for pregnant women .
The RCOG reiterates government advice pregnant women “ should pay particular attention to avoiding contact with people who are known to have COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
When is Boris Johnson and Carrie 's baby due ?
In the statement revealing both the engagement and pregnancy a spokesman for the couple said : “ The prime minister and Miss Symonds are very pleased to announce their engagement and that they are expecting a baby in the early summer.
” The predicted birth date of their baby suggests he or she was conceived in autumn .
This was around the same time the October 31 Brexit deadline was extended .
Mr Johnson and Ms Symonds had been living apart following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ How Joe Biden is poised to 'diminish ' US-UK Brexit trade deal [ INSIGHT ] Coronavirus lockdown to last 'until end of April ' to avoid death spike [ ANALYSIS ] Coronavirus poll : Should the UK lockdown be lifted ?
VOTE HERE [ POLL ] Now the Prime Minister has been moved to intensive care in St Thomas ' hospital on doctors advice .
A Number 10 spokesman said : `` Over the course of this afternoon , the condition of the Prime Minister has worsened and , on the advice of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moved to the intensive Care Unit at the hospital .
`` The PM has asked Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab , who is the First Secretary of State , to deputise for him where necessary .
`` The PM is receiving excellent care , and thanks all NHS staff for their hard work and dedication . ''
Mr Johnson , 55 , was admitted to St Thomas ' hospital in central London on Sunday after his coronavirus symptoms persisted for 10 days .
Having been in hospital for tests and observation , his doctors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care on Monday evening .
Mr Johnson 's spokesman told reporters on Tuesday : `` He is receiving standard oxygen treatment and breathing without any other assistance .
`` The prime minister has been stable overnight and remains in good spirits .
He has not required mechanical ventilation , or non-invasive respiratory support . ''
Now , well-wishes have been sent from around the world to both Ms Symonds and Mr Johnson .
French President Emmanuel Macron tweeted : `` All my support to Boris Johnson , his family and the British people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him well . ''

Carrie Symonds and Boris Johnson announce birth of baby boy
Prime Minister Boris Johnson is engaged to environmental campaigner Carrie Symonds and the pair have now announced the birth of their baby. A statement from Downing Street said both mother and child are doing well. The boy was born at a London hospital.
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Mr Johnson had returned to work on Monday, a month after testing positive for COVID which he said had threatened his life. In a speech to the nation on Monday the Prime Minister thanked Britons for their "grit" amid the coronavirus lockdown. Now politicians have been sending their congratulations to the couple. Health minister Matt Hancock said on Twitter: "So thrilled for Boris and Carrie. Wonderful to have a moment of unalloyed joy!" Read More: Boris Johnson and Carrie Symonds announce birth of baby boy
Carrie Symonds baby due: When is Carrie Symonds and Boris Johnson's baby due?
READ MORE Boris Johnson may MISS first PMQ’s debate with Keir Starmer today Former chancellor Sajid Javid tweeted: "Congratulations @carriesymonds @BorisJohnson. Such wonderful uplifting news!" Chancellor Rishi Sunak tweeted: "Great to hear Downing Street is getting a new resident. "Congratulations to @BorisJohnson and @carriesymonds on the birth of their son." And Former Conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith tweeted: "Congratulations @BorisJohnson & @carriesymonds such wonderful news! Baby boy!"
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Carrie Symonds baby due: The pair have been living together at Downing Street before the coronavirus outbreak
When is Boris Johnson and Carrie's baby due? In the statement revealing both the engagement and pregnancy a spokesman for the couple said: “The prime minister and Miss Symonds are very pleased to announce their engagement and that they are expecting a baby in the early summer.” The predicted birth date of their baby suggests he or she was conceived in autumn. This was around the same time the October 31 Brexit deadline was extended. DON'T MISS
Boris Johnson baby news: Will Boris Johnson go on paternity leave? [EXPLAINED]
Has Britain's exit from the lockdown just got easier? [INSIGHT]
British holidaymakers warned 'stay away' from these tourism hotspots [ANALYSIS]
READ MORE Michael Gove touted for huge new role after coronavirus crisis Mr Johnson and Ms Symonds had been living apart following his coronavirus diagnosis. Mr Johnson has now recovered from coronavirus and has returned to work after being discharged from hospital, and now the UK is into its fifth week of lockdown. The Prime Minister spent a week in St Thomas' Hospital in central London, including three nights in intensive care, but left on Easter Sunday to be reunited with pregnant fiancee Carrie Symonds. He had been resting at Chequers in Buckinghamshire after doctors ordered the Conservative Party leader to rest.
Carrie Symonds baby due: The couple are also engaged to be married
Carrie Symonds baby due: Mr Johnson is in intensive care at St Thomas' Hospital
Number 10 has confirmed that the PM would "not be returning to work immediately" following his discharge. Health Secretary Matt Hancock, speaking at the Downing Street briefing on Sunday, said there was no advice on how long Mr Johnson should rest before returning to work. He said: "That will be a clinical decision for his doctors to take with him. "The Government is operating perfectly efficiently within the strategy that he set out."


thedailyexpress--2020-04-14--Sir Keir Starmer wife: Who is new Labour leader's wife Victoria Starmer?

The Labour leadership contest concluded on Saturday , April 4 and Sir Keir Starmer was elected as the new leader @ @ @ @ @ Sir Keir faced competition from fellow leadership hopefuls Rebecca Long-Bailey and Lisa Nandy .
In @ @ @ @ @ Sir Keir has said it is the `` honour and privilege of [ his ] @ @ @ @ @ the position .
He said : `` It is the honour and the privilege of @ @ @ @ @ as leader of the Labour Party .
It comes at a moment like none other @ @ @ @ @ Coronavirus has brought normal life to a halt .
Our cities , our towns and @ @ @ @ @ our roads deserted .
`` Public life has all but come to a standstill and @ @ @ @ @ .
READ MORE : Keir Starmer savaged by own Labour supporters for lame tweet about @

The Labour leadership contest concluded on Saturday, April 4 and Sir Keir Starmer was elected as the new leader of the Labour Party . Sir Keir faced competition from fellow leadership hopefuls Rebecca Long-Bailey and Lisa Nandy.
In a recorded video message, Sir Keir has said it is the "honour and privilege of [his] life" to take on the position.
He said: "It is the honour and the privilege of my life to be elected as leader of the Labour Party. It comes at a moment like none other in our lifetime.
"Coronavirus has brought normal life to a halt. Our cities, our towns and our villages are silent, our roads deserted.
"Public life has all but come to a standstill and we're missing each other.
READ MORE: Keir Starmer savaged by own Labour supporters for lame tweet about NHS


thedailyexpress--2020-04-14--Boris Johnson letter cost: How much does Boris Johnson letter to the nation cost?

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has written to all households across Britain to urge them to heed the Government 's coronavirus guidance and stay home wherever possible .
The letter has been delivered to 30 million homes , reaching all 66 million residents in Britain .
Alongside the letter , residents have received a leaflet outlining the Government ’ s advice .
The leaflet includes clear explanations of symptoms and handwashing guidance as well as rules on leaving the house , self-isolating with symptoms and shielding vulnerable people .
Mr Johnson is currently recovering at his country home Chequers after being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for 10 days .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock revealed he also had the disease , and Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty had previously been isolating after showing symptoms of the virus .
Read More : EU 's disease prevention body admits they got it wrong on coronavirus • Kate and William pledge to do all they can to help key workers How much does Boris Johnson 's letter to the nation cost ?
The letter and leaflet are being sent as part of the Government ’ s public information campaign on coronavirus .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ cost around £5.7 million ( $ 7.1 million ) to print and distribute to the UK 's 66 million residents .
The letter reads in part : `` We know things will get worse before they get better .
“ But we are making the right preparations , and the more we all follow the rules , the fewer lives will be lost and the sooner life can return to normal .
“ I want to thank everyone who is working flat out to beat the virus , in particular , the staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across England , Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland .
“ It has been truly inspirational to see our doctors , nurses and other carers rise magnificently to the needs of the hour .
“ Thousands of retired doctors and nurses are returning to the NHS – and hundreds of thousands of citizens are volunteering to help the most vulnerable .
DO N'T MISS Warehouse and Oasis face administration - is your local going ?
[ INSIGHT ] Coronavirus POLL : Should all Britons be forced to wear a face mask ?
[ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2021 despite coronavirus crisis [ ANALYSIS ] “ That is why , at this moment of national emergency , I urge you , please , to stay at home , protect the NHS and save lives.
” Coronavirus cases have grown rapidly across the UK in recent days , with 88,621 cases nationwide .
Of these , 11,329 have died .
The NHS will open three new hospitals to tackle the growing cases in the coming weeks .
The Nightingale hospitals will open in London 's ExCeL Centre , Birmingham 's NEC Arena @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospital will have up to 4,000 beds with an initial capacity for 500 beds with ventilators and oxygen .
Both the Birmingham and Manchester hospitals will have up to 2,000-bed capacity each , with 500 beds each initially .
The news of three new hospitals came as NHS chief executive , Sir Simon Stevens revealed the NHS has freed up 33,000 beds across existing NHS hospitals for coronavirus patients .
The 33,000 beds is the equivalent of 50 new hospitals .
Sir Simon said : `` It will take a monumental effort from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ epidemic , but the NHS is mobilising like never before to deliver care in new ways , to thousands more people – starting with the opening of the first NHS Nightingale in London later next week .
“ These are extraordinary steps the NHS is taking , and clinicians , managers and military planners are working day and night to create , equip and staff these hospitals from scratch and prepare for the surge that is likely to be coming .
“ While we continue to pull out all the stops , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part .
`` Every single person in this country can make a difference by following the medical advice to the letter – stay at home , wash your hands , which will help stop the virus letting rip and will therefore save lives .
”

Boris Johnson went 'beyond call of duty' says Alex Phillips
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has written to all households across Britain to urge them to heed the Government's coronavirus guidance and stay home wherever possible. The letter has been delivered to 30 million homes, reaching all 66 million residents in Britain.
Trending
Alongside the letter, residents have received a leaflet outlining the Government’s advice. The leaflet includes clear explanations of symptoms and handwashing guidance as well as rules on leaving the house, self-isolating with symptoms and shielding vulnerable people. Mr Johnson is currently recovering at his country home Chequers after being treated for COVID-19 in hospital in London for 10 days. Health Secretary Matt Hancock revealed he also had the disease, and Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty had previously been isolating after showing symptoms of the virus. Read More: EU's disease prevention body admits they got it wrong on coronavirus
Boris Johnson letter cost: A letter from the Prime Minister will be sent to all 66million households
READ MORE Kate and William pledge to do all they can to help key workers How much does Boris Johnson's letter to the nation cost? The letter and leaflet are being sent as part of the Government’s public information campaign on coronavirus. The Government said that the letter will cost around £5.7 million ($7.1 million) to print and distribute to the UK's 66 million residents. The letter reads in part: "We know things will get worse before they get better.
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Boris Johnson letter cost: The Prime Minister is recovering at Chequers after being treated for coronavirus
“But we are making the right preparations, and the more we all follow the rules, the fewer lives will be lost and the sooner life can return to normal. “I want to thank everyone who is working flat out to beat the virus, in particular, the staff in our fantastic NHS and care sector across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. “It has been truly inspirational to see our doctors, nurses and other carers rise magnificently to the needs of the hour. “Thousands of retired doctors and nurses are returning to the NHS – and hundreds of thousands of citizens are volunteering to help the most vulnerable. DON'T MISS
Warehouse and Oasis face administration - is your local going? [INSIGHT]
Coronavirus POLL: Should all Britons be forced to wear a face mask? [POLL]
Cruises: Bookings rocket for 2021 despite coronavirus crisis [ANALYSIS]
READ MORE Kate and William's 'fascinating' duty reveals never-before-seen side “That is why, at this moment of national emergency, I urge you, please, to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.” Coronavirus cases have grown rapidly across the UK in recent days, with 88,621 cases nationwide. Of these, 11,329 have died. The NHS will open three new hospitals to tackle the growing cases in the coming weeks. The Nightingale hospitals will open in London's ExCeL Centre, Birmingham's NEC Arena and Manchester Central Complex.
Boris Johnson letter cost: Britons are being urged to heed the Government advice and stay home
Boris Johnson letter cost: There are more than 80,000 coronavirus cases nationwide
The London hospital will have up to 4,000 beds with an initial capacity for 500 beds with ventilators and oxygen. Both the Birmingham and Manchester hospitals will have up to 2,000-bed capacity each, with 500 beds each initially. The news of three new hospitals came as NHS chief executive, Sir Simon Stevens revealed the NHS has freed up 33,000 beds across existing NHS hospitals for coronavirus patients. The 33,000 beds is the equivalent of 50 new hospitals.


thedailyexpress--2020-04-16--IMF demands Brexit transition extended as coronavirus panics world markets

Kristalina Georgieva said the UK and the EU should agree to push back the end date beyond December 31 to avoid making the current climate “ tougher ” .
Her comments come after the IMF on Tuesday predicted the steepest downturn in the world economy since the Great Depression of the 1930s would happen this year .
`` It is tough as it is .
Let 's not make it any tougher , '' Ms Georgieva , the IMF ’ s managing director , told BBC radio .
`` My advice would be to seek ways in which this element @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of everybody , of the UK , of the EU , the whole world . ''
After the Brexit transition period has ended the UK and the 27-member bloc will be faced with barriers to exports and imports if they have not reached a trade deal .
Challenges to trading in this way will be exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic .
In her interview with the BBC broadcast on Thursday , Ms Georgieva praised the emergency measures taken by the Treasury and the Bank of England which she said had been taken `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ That very strong package of measures is helping the UK , but given the UK 's sizeable role in the world economy , it 's actually helping everyone , '' she said .
Boris Johnson ’ s government has increased spending and cut taxes in measures that the budget office estimates will cost £100 billion .
Company loans worth £330bn have also been guaranteed .
The BoE has cut interest rates to 0.1 percent and ramped up its bond-buying by a record £2bn .
READ MORE : Juncker set to rake in thousands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the prospect of no trade deal being agreed by the UK and Brussels this year and no extension to negotiations .
She said it would not be wise for politicians to go down a route which would lead to more confusion in the midst of the `` unprecedented uncertainty '' caused by the COVID-19 epidemic .
She explained : `` I really hope that all policymakers everywhere would be thinking about [ reducing uncertainty ] .
” DO N'T MISS Rishi Sunak panics EU with promise to complete Brexit deal in December @ @ @ @ @ @ @ planning helped in fight against coronavirus [ ANALYSIS ] Brexit talks BACK ON : UK and EU resume crunch trade negotiations [ INSIGHT ] And when asked specifically if she would advise leaders to extend the transition period , she said : `` My advice would be to seek ways in which this element of uncertainty is reduced in the interests of everybody , the UK , the EU , and the whole world '' .
The Prime Minister has repeatedly ruled out extending the transition period .
And Number 10 has said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ matter remains unchanged despite the coronavirus outbreak .

Rishi Sunak says UK is 'committed to Brexit timeline'
Kristalina Georgieva said the UK and the EU should agree to push back the end date beyond December 31 to avoid making the current climate “tougher”. Her comments come after the IMF on Tuesday predicted the steepest downturn in the world economy since the Great Depression of the 1930s would happen this year. "It is tough as it is. Let's not make it any tougher," Ms Georgieva, the IMF’s managing director, told BBC radio.
"My advice would be to seek ways in which this element of uncertainty is reduced in the interests of everybody, of the UK, of the EU, the whole world." After the Brexit transition period has ended the UK and the 27-member bloc will be faced with barriers to exports and imports if they have not reached a trade deal. Challenges to trading in this way will be exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic. In her interview with the BBC broadcast on Thursday, Ms Georgieva praised the emergency measures taken by the Treasury and the Bank of England which she said had been taken "early" and were well-coordinated.
IMF chief Kristalian Georgieva has called for a Brexit extension, which Boris Johnson has ruled out
Kristalina Georgieva urged leaders to extend the Brexit transition period
"That very strong package of measures is helping the UK, but given the UK's sizeable role in the world economy, it's actually helping everyone," she said. Boris Johnson’s government has increased spending and cut taxes in measures that the budget office estimates will cost £100 billion. Company loans worth £330bn have also been guaranteed. The BoE has cut interest rates to 0.1 percent and ramped up its bond-buying by a record £2bn. READ MORE: Juncker set to rake in thousands from Brexit-bashing speeches
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David Frost and Michel Barnier are set to start the next round of trade talks next week
IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva said no extension would add to the uncertainty of the current climate
Mr Frost and Mr Barnier said they are hopeful for a breakthrough in the upcoming talks
And when asked specifically if she would advise leaders to extend the transition period, she said: "My advice would be to seek ways in which this element of uncertainty is reduced in the interests of everybody, the UK, the EU, and the whole world". The Prime Minister has repeatedly ruled out extending the transition period. And Number 10 has said the government’s position on the matter remains unchanged despite the coronavirus outbreak.
The timeline of Brexit
On Wednesday the UK and the EU announced their next round of trade talks. Both sides will hold week-long discussions over video conference on the weeks commencing April 20, May 11 and June 1. Britain’s chief Brexit negotiator David Frost and his EU counterpart Michel Barnier will meet on Monday.
Kristalina Georgieva meets EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen
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