thedailyexpress--2020-06-04--Brexit trade talks ignoring 80 PERCENT of UK economy -warning as UK-EU negotiations falter

The paper , produced by think tank UK in a Changing Europe says the sector , which accounts for around 30 million jobs , has been given little attention by the Government .
The report , titled Services and Brexit says that the EU is the “ primary destination for Britain ’ s service exports ” .
It stresses the single market has allowed greater cross-border trade “ than is typical ” of free-trade agreements .
Even if a deal is struck this year , the think tank warns that services will suffer and even without one , it claims @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as World Trade Organisation rules are much weaker for services than goods .
It added that the “ hugely important ” financial services sector would depend on a “ unilateral EU decision on equivalence ” , which can be revoked at short notice .
The think tank also warned there may be staff shortages in sectors such as financial , health , education and road haulage which are often highly dependent on EU migrant workers .
The report added : “ When free movement ends and the government ’ s new post-migration proposals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shortages in sectors which rely on workers who will not meet the salary thresholds proposed within the new scheme.
” It continued : “ Trade deals typically do not enable services trade to nearly the same extent as they do for trade in goods .
“ As a result , strategically important sectors in the UK , including financial services , will face new barriers to selling into the EU market from 1 January 2021.
” It warned that “ given the distance between the negotiating positions of the two sides ” , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Brexit trade talks explode as Brussels ' p*ssed off ' by Frost tactics The report said : “ Whilst the UK emphasises the need for regulatory autonomy , the EU insists on conditions to remove the risk it perceives of regulatory competition from the UK .
“ The Governments of both Theresa May and Boris Johnson have paid little attention to the services sector in the Brexit negotiations , despite the fact that it accounts for some 30m jobs .
“ The EU ’ s single market is the primary destination for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a trade surplus with the EU and leaving the single market will have a profound effect on tradeable services.
” It warned the current coronavirus crisis was also impacting the sector forcing many businesses into financial hardship .
DO N'T MISS : Brexit POLL : Should UK walk away from negotiations in September ?
[ OPINION ] Pound to euro exchange rate : Sterling ‘ dips ’ amid Brexit talks [ REVEAL ] Lord Heseltine claimed UK had 'no choice but to join eurozone ' [ EXPERT ] The report finished : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will significantly reshape the UK ’ s economy – regionally and nationally.
” Professor Anand Menon , director of The UK in a Changing Europe , said : “ It is worrying that the biggest sector in the UK economy – accounting for more than 80 percent of it – has been the subject of so little focus in the UK-EU negotiations .
“ This serves to underline the largely political nature of the Government ’ s Brexit priorities , focussed on regulatory autonomy rather than any economic implications of this.
” Professor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK in a Changing Europe , said : “ Given the UK ’ s reliance on services , the Government faces a key question in the current negotiations : what economic price , in terms of declining single market access , is it willing to pay to ‘ take back control ’ on services regulation ?

Brexit: David Frost outlines 'frustration' with EU negotiations
The paper, produced by think tank UK in a Changing Europe says the sector, which accounts for around 30 million jobs, has been given little attention by the Government. The report, titled Services and Brexit says that the EU is the “primary destination for Britain’s service exports”.
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It stresses the single market has allowed greater cross-border trade “than is typical” of free-trade agreements. Even if a deal is struck this year, the think tank warns that services will suffer and even without one, it claims that service exporters will face significant barriers as World Trade Organisation rules are much weaker for services than goods. It added that the “hugely important” financial services sector would depend on a “unilateral EU decision on equivalence”, which can be revoked at short notice. The think tank also warned there may be staff shortages in sectors such as financial, health, education and road haulage which are often highly dependent on EU migrant workers.
Researchers claim that the service sector has been left out of Brexit.
UK chief negotiator David Frost is in talks with the EU this week.
The report added: “When free movement ends and the government’s new post-migration proposals take effect, there may be staff shortages in sectors which rely on workers who will not meet the salary thresholds proposed within the new scheme.” It continued: “Trade deals typically do not enable services trade to nearly the same extent as they do for trade in goods. “As a result, strategically important sectors in the UK, including financial services, will face new barriers to selling into the EU market from 1 January 2021.” It warned that “given the distance between the negotiating positions of the two sides”, services were extremely vulnerable. READ MORE: Brexit trade talks explode as Brussels 'p*ssed off' by Frost tactics
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The UK economy could suffer greatly in the event of a no deal Brexit.
The report said: “Whilst the UK emphasises the need for regulatory autonomy, the EU insists on conditions to remove the risk it perceives of regulatory competition from the UK. “The Governments of both Theresa May and Boris Johnson have paid little attention to the services sector in the Brexit negotiations, despite the fact that it accounts for some 30m jobs. “The EU’s single market is the primary destination for UK services exports and the UK runs a trade surplus with the EU and leaving the single market will have a profound effect on tradeable services.” It warned the current coronavirus crisis was also impacting the sector forcing many businesses into financial hardship. DON'T MISS:
Brexit POLL: Should UK walk away from negotiations in September? [OPINION]
Pound to euro exchange rate: Sterling ‘dips’ amid Brexit talks [REVEAL]
Lord Heseltine claimed UK had 'no choice but to join eurozone' [EXPERT]
It is thought tomorrow's trade talks could end in deadlock.
The report finished: “The combined impact of Brexit and Covid will significantly reshape the UK’s economy – regionally and nationally.” Professor Anand Menon, director of The UK in a Changing Europe, said: “It is worrying that the biggest sector in the UK economy – accounting for more than 80 percent of it – has been the subject of so little focus in the UK-EU negotiations. “This serves to underline the largely political nature of the Government’s Brexit priorities, focussed on regulatory autonomy rather than any economic implications of this.” Professor Sarah Hall, senior fellow of The UK in a Changing Europe, said: “Given the UK’s reliance on services, the Government faces a key question in the current negotiations: what economic price, in terms of declining single market access, is it willing to pay to ‘take back control’ on services regulation?
Barnier and Frost have had heated discussions this week.


thedailyexpress--2020-06-04--Nicola Sturgeon announces first day of single figure death toll in Scotland since March 27

Speaking at the daily press conference on coronavirus , Nicola Sturgeon said the country 's daily death toll dropped to single figures for the first time since the beginning of the lockdown in March .
However , she added that nine deaths were still too many , with each one representing a person and a family left `` shattered and grieving '' .
The First Minister also addressed the loss of jobs at the Rolls Royce plant in Inchinnan , where 700 redundancies were announced on Wednesday .
She said : `` That announcement will have been devastating news for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is already anxious time .
`` Unfortunately , it may not be the last of its kind in the period ahead .
`` I want to stress that the Scottish Government will do everything we can to secure as good an outcome for those whose jobs are at risk . ''
READ MORE : UK holidaymakers given summer hopes as Costa Del Sol urges to visit The First Minister said the Scottish Government was looking to help companies diversify into producing personal protective equipment ( PPE ) .
She told the briefing that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the health sector weekly before Covid-19 , 4.5 million are now needed .
To meet demand , Ms Sturgeon said there had been imports brought in from overseas , but also looked inwards for firms across Scotland to produce the equipment .
The First Minister said she hoped companies in Scotland would be able to grow the capacity for the creation of PPE to the point where it not only supplies the NHS north of the border , but can also export items to other countries .
Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ surgery would be published on Thursday .
The framework had two aims , the Health Secretary said , with the prioritisation of patients being the same across the country and that patients are offered `` the earliest possible appointment '' for their surgery .
She added : `` That appointment may be outside their local board area , but that 's to be able to allow us to ensure that prioritisation is the same across the country , no matter where patients live , and that they 're given the earliest possible opportunity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need to be regional or national working between health boards , and she would be writing to board chief executives to make that clear .
DO N'T MISS : Coronavirus panic in House of Commons as entire chamber deep cleaned [ VIDEO ] Coronavirus latest : Experts call for Minister for Pandemics [ ANALYSIS ] Graph shows UK Covid-19 daily deaths more than all EU27 put together [ DATA ]

Nicola Sturgeon announces nine COVID-19 deaths in Scotland
Speaking at the daily press conference on coronavirus, Nicola Sturgeon said the country's daily death toll dropped to single figures for the first time since the beginning of the lockdown in March. However, she added that nine deaths were still too many, with each one representing a person and a family left "shattered and grieving".
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The First Minister also addressed the loss of jobs at the Rolls Royce plant in Inchinnan, where 700 redundancies were announced on Wednesday. She said: "That announcement will have been devastating news for the workforce and their families at what is already anxious time. "Unfortunately, it may not be the last of its kind in the period ahead. "I want to stress that the Scottish Government will do everything we can to secure as good an outcome for those whose jobs are at risk." READ MORE: UK holidaymakers given summer hopes as Costa Del Sol urges to visit
Nicola Sturgeon announces first day of death toll in Scotland in single figures since March
Nicola Sturgeon at her daily coronavirus press conference in Edinburgh
The First Minister said the Scottish Government was looking to help companies diversify into producing personal protective equipment (PPE). She told the briefing that in contrast to the 57,000 facemasks needed by the health sector weekly before Covid-19, 4.5 million are now needed. To meet demand, Ms Sturgeon said there had been imports brought in from overseas, but also looked inwards for firms across Scotland to produce the equipment. The First Minister said she hoped companies in Scotland would be able to grow the capacity for the creation of PPE to the point where it not only supplies the NHS north of the border, but can also export items to other countries.
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Nicola Sturgeon slammed over testing care homes by Carlaw
Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said the framework for the recovery of cancer surgery would be published on Thursday. The framework had two aims, the Health Secretary said, with the prioritisation of patients being the same across the country and that patients are offered "the earliest possible appointment" for their surgery. She added: "That appointment may be outside their local board area, but that's to be able to allow us to ensure that prioritisation is the same across the country, no matter where patients live, and that they're given the earliest possible opportunity." Ms Freeman said there may need to be regional or national working between health boards, and she would be writing to board chief executives to make that clear. DON'T MISS:
Coronavirus panic in House of Commons as entire chamber deep cleaned [VIDEO]
Coronavirus latest: Experts call for Minister for Pandemics [ANALYSIS]
Graph shows UK Covid-19 daily deaths more than all EU27 put together [DATA]


thedailyexpress--2020-06-05--Brexit warning: Barnier attacked for plotting 'blame game' if UK-EU trade deal collapses

Britain officially left the European Union on January 31 , with the focus now turning firmly to the trading relationship between the two respective sides during a series of virtual meetings brought on by the current coronavirus pandemic .
The UK and EU trade talks in March - led by Boris Johnson 's chief Brexit negotiator David Frost and Brussels counterpart Mr Barnier .
But talks have descended into chaos , with both sides trading vicious insults over each other 's negotiating strategies and demands for what should be included in any future trade deal .
Key areas such as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , tax and access to the single market all still remain unresolved - with no solution in sight .
Tensions have intensified further with the UK continuing to insist a trade deal , must be signed before the end of the transition period on December 31 , 2020 .
Last week , Mr Barnier wrote to the leaders of UK opposition political parties stating the EU is open to the idea of extending the transition period by up to two years .
The EU and Mr Barnier have now been accused of preparing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ game '' with the offer of a delay to the transition period - should trade talks with the UK completely collapse .
Commenting on Mr Barnier 's letter , Alistair Jones , associate professor in politics and a university teacher fellow at De Montfort University , told Express.co.uk : `` This is a canny move by Barnier .
It is not about getting the UK to stay in the EU but more about trying to retain the relationship between the EU and the UK to enable a deal to be done .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2020 without a deal in place , both the EU and the UK will suffer serious economic harm - the UK far more .
A deal will be mutually beneficial .
`` The problem is some issues are phenomenally difficult to resolve - fisheries , environmental standards to name a couple .
`` These could never be resolved in a single year .
They interlink with too many other issues .
Resolving them is the best way forward , but this takes time .
`` Making the gesture of extending the transition period @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK Government the fig leaf of it being `` them asking us '' rather than the other way around .
These are optics to help Johnson , should he so wish . ''
Wyn Grant , a Political Scientist and Professor of Politics at the University of Warwick , believes Mr Barnier 's letter shows the EU desperately wants a trade deal with the UK , but also shows the `` EU is also preparing its ground for the inevitable blame game '' .
He told this website : `` The EU would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ letter , and thinks that this is not possible given the wide gulf between the two sides , the limited time available and the distraction created by COVID-19 which is the EU 's number one priority now in terms of restarting the European economy .
`` The EU is also preparing its ground for the inevitable blame game . ''
Commenting on Mr Barnier 's letter last week , Professor Alex de Ruyter , Director of the Centre for Brexit Studies at Birmingham City University , added : `` It is an offer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more into it than that .
`` Barnier wants to show that he has done everything possible to clinch a deal .
If talks fall through , he wants to show that he isn ’ t responsible for that . ''
Last week , the EU 's chief Brexit negotiator wrote to the Westminster leaders of the SNP , Liberal Democrats , Plaid Cymru , SDLP , Green Party and Alliance Party , and said the option of an extension to the transition period is available if the UK wants it .
These @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Barnier on May 15 calling for a two-year extension to be agreed between the UK and EU .

Brexit: Boris Johnson must not apply for extension says caller
Britain officially left the European Union on January 31, with the focus now turning firmly to the trading relationship between the two respective sides during a series of virtual meetings brought on by the current coronavirus pandemic. The UK and EU trade talks in March - led by Boris Johnson's chief Brexit negotiator David Frost and Brussels counterpart Mr Barnier. But talks have descended into chaos, with both sides trading vicious insults over each other's negotiating strategies and demands for what should be included in any future trade deal.
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Key areas such as the level playing field, state aid, tax and access to the single market all still remain unresolved - with no solution in sight. Tensions have intensified further with the UK continuing to insist a trade deal ,must be signed before the end of the transition period on December 31, 2020. Last week, Mr Barnier wrote to the leaders of UK opposition political parties stating the EU is open to the idea of extending the transition period by up to two years. The EU and Mr Barnier have now been accused of preparing their ground for a possible "blame game" with the offer of a delay to the transition period - should trade talks with the UK completely collapse.
Brexit news: The EU has been accused of 'preparing its ground for the inevitable blame game'
Brexit news: Michel Barnier said the EU is open to the idea of extending the transition period by up to two years
Commenting on Mr Barnier's letter, Alistair Jones, associate professor in politics and a university teacher fellow at De Montfort University, told Express.co.uk: "This is a canny move by Barnier. It is not about getting the UK to stay in the EU but more about trying to retain the relationship between the EU and the UK to enable a deal to be done. "If the UK leaves on 31 December 2020 without a deal in place, both the EU and the UK will suffer serious economic harm - the UK far more. A deal will be mutually beneficial. "The problem is some issues are phenomenally difficult to resolve - fisheries, environmental standards to name a couple. "These could never be resolved in a single year. They interlink with too many other issues. Resolving them is the best way forward, but this takes time.
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Brexit news: Boris Johnson continues to insist a trade deal with the EU must be signed this year
"Making the gesture of extending the transition period for up to two years gives the UK Government the fig leaf of it being "them asking us" rather than the other way around. These are optics to help Johnson, should he so wish." Wyn Grant, a Political Scientist and Professor of Politics at the University of Warwick, believes Mr Barnier's letter shows the EU desperately wants a trade deal with the UK, but also shows the "EU is also preparing its ground for the inevitable blame game". He told this website: "The EU would like an agreement, hence the Barnier letter, and thinks that this is not possible given the wide gulf between the two sides, the limited time available and the distraction created by COVID-19 which is the EU's number one priority now in terms of restarting the European economy. "The EU is also preparing its ground for the inevitable blame game."
Brexit news: The UK and EU opened trade talks in March
Brexit news: The SNP's leader in Westminster Ian Blackford is pushing for an extension to the transition period
Commenting on Mr Barnier's letter last week, Professor Alex de Ruyter, Director of the Centre for Brexit Studies at Birmingham City University, added: "It is an offer. I wouldn’t read any more into it than that. "Barnier wants to show that he has done everything possible to clinch a deal. If talks fall through, he wants to show that he isn’t responsible for that." Last week, the EU's chief Brexit negotiator wrote to the Westminster leaders of the SNP, Liberal Democrats, Plaid Cymru, SDLP, Green Party and Alliance Party, and said the option of an extension to the transition period is available if the UK wants it. These party leaders had previously written to Mr Barnier on May 15 calling for a two-year extension to be agreed between the UK and EU.
Brexit news: The transition period is set to end on December 31, 2020


thedailyexpress--2020-06-04--‘Walk away Boris!’ PM told to ABANDON post-Brexit talks with EU in September

Discussions between the UK and the EU are the on brink of collapsing with outstanding issues over a free-trade deal , fisheries and laws proving huge a stumbling block .
The Prime Minister is understood to have issued an ultimatum to the EU , and warned Brussels chiefs that the UK is prepared to walk away without a deal and on World Trade Organisation ( WTO ) terms in September – three months ahead of the scheduled end of the transition period on December 31 .
A poll of more than 4,500 Express.co.uk readers has found the overwhelming majority think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ breakthrough can be made .
The survey conducted on Thursday June 4 between 10.11am and 7.30pm asked 4,753 Express.co.uk readers “ As EU plays hardball , should UK walk away from negotiations in September ?
” .
A huge 97 percent ( 4,628 ) of readers believe the Prime Minister should walk away from the negotiating table and voted yes .
Just two percent ( 114 ) of participants thought the talks should continue past September and voted no .
Meanwhile one percent ( 11 ) were unsure and voted don ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ readers insisted the UK and the EU would have had enough time to strike a deal by September , however several others believed the Prime Minister should end talks immediately .
One user said : “ Walk away Boris , because the EU are negotiating in bad faith , why , because this is about punishing the UK for leaving there beloved EU , walk Boris . ''
A second user wrote : “ Walk away now Boris and go for WTO now and do n't wait any longer.
” A third commented @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We will know where a deal on trade is going by end of June beginning of July on fisheries.
” Meanwhile a fourth said : “ Walk away in September ?
No - walk away now.
” The UK ’ s Brexit negotiator David Frost and his EU counterpart Michel Barnier resumed the fourth round of post-Brexit talks this week and there has been little sign of a breakthrough .
The lack of progress has prompted the Bank of England ( BoE ) Governor Andrew Bailey to urge bank bosses to step up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The BoE said : “ As we have said previously , the possibility that negotiations between the UK and EU over a future trading relationship might not conclude in a deal is one of a number of outcomes that UK banks need to prepare for over the coming months . ''
The UK officially left the EU in January , however during the transition period the UK remained tied to EU rules as well as the single market and customs union – a no deal exit would release Britain from Brussels regulations .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ told the Sunday Express `` talks can not go on forever ” and the outcome needed to be known before October at the latest .
Prince Charles reveals he was 'lucky ' to get light bout of COVID-19 [ VIDEO ] Brexit news : Germany panics over deal - 'This is must-do ' [ INSIGHT ] Furlough cost rises £2.5bn in a WEEK as thousands more signed off [ ANALYSIS ] The source said : “ The UK has to make sure businesses can prepare properly for what will happen at the end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do that if the talks are continuing well into the autumn because they wo n't know what to prepare for .
“ What is clear is that the conventional approach will not get us much further .
The EU needs to inject some political reality into its approach , and appreciate that they can not use their usual tactic of delay to drag the talks into the autumn .
“ October is too late .
Our businesses need to know whether there is going to be a trade agreement before then to prepare @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Brexit: Boris Johnson must not apply for extension says caller
Discussions between the UK and the EU are the on brink of collapsing with outstanding issues over a free-trade deal, fisheries and laws proving huge a stumbling block. The Prime Minister is understood to have issued an ultimatum to the EU, and warned Brussels chiefs that the UK is prepared to walk away without a deal and on World Trade Organisation (WTO) terms in September – three months ahead of the scheduled end of the transition period on December 31.
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A poll of more than 4,500 Express.co.uk readers has found the overwhelming majority think Britain should end talks prematurely if no breakthrough can be made. The survey conducted on Thursday June 4 between 10.11am and 7.30pm asked 4,753 Express.co.uk readers “As EU plays hardball, should UK walk away from negotiations in September?”. A huge 97 percent (4,628) of readers believe the Prime Minister should walk away from the negotiating table and voted yes.
Boris Johnson has been urged to abandon talks with the EU in September
David Frost and his EU counterpart Michel Barnier
Just two percent (114) of participants thought the talks should continue past September and voted no. Meanwhile one percent (11) were unsure and voted don’t know. A number of passionate Express.co.uk readers insisted the UK and the EU would have had enough time to strike a deal by September, however several others believed the Prime Minister should end talks immediately. One user said: “Walk away Boris, because the EU are negotiating in bad faith, why, because this is about punishing the UK for leaving there beloved EU, walk Boris."
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Michel Barnier has previously offered the UK a two year extension
A second user wrote: “Walk away now Boris and go for WTO now and don't wait any longer.” A third commented: “Why wait till September! We will know where a deal on trade is going by end of June beginning of July on fisheries.” Meanwhile a fourth said: “Walk away in September? No - walk away now.” The UK’s Brexit negotiator David Frost and his EU counterpart Michel Barnier resumed the fourth round of post-Brexit talks this week and there has been little sign of a breakthrough. READ MORE: Coronavirus map LIVE: Hospital death toll up 133 - huge weekly drop
Michael Gove is confident a breakthrough will be made
The lack of progress has prompted the Bank of England (BoE) Governor Andrew Bailey to urge bank bosses to step up preparations for a no deal Brexit. The BoE said: “As we have said previously, the possibility that negotiations between the UK and EU over a future trading relationship might not conclude in a deal is one of a number of outcomes that UK banks need to prepare for over the coming months." The UK officially left the EU in January, however during the transition period the UK remained tied to EU rules as well as the single market and customs union – a no deal exit would release Britain from Brussels regulations. A UK source close to negotiations previously told the Sunday Express "talks cannot go on forever” and the outcome needed to be known before October at the latest. DON'T MISS Prince Charles reveals he was 'lucky' to get light bout of COVID-19 [VIDEO]
Brexit news: Germany panics over deal - 'This is must-do' [INSIGHT]
Furlough cost rises £2.5bn in a WEEK as thousands more signed off [ANALYSIS]
The source said: “The UK has to make sure businesses can prepare properly for what will happen at the end of the year. Traders can't do that if the talks are continuing well into the autumn because they won't know what to prepare for. “What is clear is that the conventional approach will not get us much further. The EU needs to inject some political reality into its approach, and appreciate that they cannot use their usual tactic of delay to drag the talks into the autumn. “October is too late. Our businesses need to know whether there is going to be a trade agreement before then to prepare for the end of transition."
A timeline of Brexit talks


thedailyexpress--2020-06-04--‘No deal is EU’s WORST nightmare’ Former MEP unleashes threat to Brussels

Negotiations between the UK and the EU are already on the brink as the fourth round of post-Brexit talks near an end – with outstanding issues over a comprehensive free-trade deal , fisheries and regulations among the major stumbling blocks .
By the end of this month and the midway point of talks , both sides must decide whether to prolong discussions beyond December 31 – something Downing Street has constantly rejected .
The lack of progress in discussions has already prompted panic from within the EU with Michel Barnier offering the UK a delay of up to two years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 62 , has insisted alarm bells have already begun in Brussels and insisted a no deal outcome will be the worse-case scenario for the EU .
The UK officially left the European Union in January but remain tied to Brussels ’ regulations during the 11-month transition period .
The leading Brexiteer has called for a clean-break from the EU and claimed Britain leaving the single market and customs union will cause “ catastrophic consequences for Europe ” .
He told Westmonster : “ By the end of this month we will know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ follow through on what needs to be done .
“ If they refuse to extend the transition period and commit fully to a December 31 break I will be the first to congratulate them along with all my Brexit Party colleagues .
“ Be in no doubt , leaving with no deal is the EU ’ s worst nightmare .
“ Do they want an island of swashbuckling Anglo-Saxon pirates running a low-tax , low-regulation business haven on their doorstep ?
“ Of course not .
It would show up their centrally planned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , unaccountable , overbearing and totally outdated .
“ The Euro is economically unjustifiable and will collapse with catastrophic consequences for Europe.
” The EU ’ s Brexit negotiator and head of taskforce Michel Barnier , last week offered the UK a delay for up to 24 months in a letter to opposition party leaders .
The EU chief has attempted to shackle the UK to Brussels throughout the negotiations by insisting on so-called “ level-playing field ” between the two sides – tying the UK to EU regulations beyond the transition period @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talks , the Government published its draft legal texts which outlined the UK ’ s plan to strike a free-trade deal with the European Union .
Mr Barnier has since accused the UK ’ s Brexit negotiating team of wanting the “ best of both worlds ” by retaining the conditions of being an EU member while leaving the single market and customs union .
Mr Barnier said : “ The British have not understood or do not want to understand that Brexit has consequences for them .
For us too .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaving the EU , they can not have the same conditions and status as when they were members of the European Union .
That is your choice .
Prince Charles reveals he was 'lucky ' to get light bout of COVID-19 [ VIDEO ] Brexit news : Germany panics over deal - 'This is must-do ' [ INSIGHT ] Furlough cost rises £2.5bn in a WEEK as thousands more signed off [ ANALYSIS ]

Brexit: Boris Johnson must not apply for extension says caller
Negotiations between the UK and the EU are already on the brink as the fourth round of post-Brexit talks near an end – with outstanding issues over a comprehensive free-trade deal, fisheries and regulations among the major stumbling blocks. By the end of this month and the midway point of talks, both sides must decide whether to prolong discussions beyond December 31 – something Downing Street has constantly rejected.
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The lack of progress in discussions has already prompted panic from within the EU with Michel Barnier offering the UK a delay of up to two years. Former Brexit Party MEP Rupert Lowe, 62, has insisted alarm bells have already begun in Brussels and insisted a no deal outcome will be the worse-case scenario for the EU. The UK officially left the European Union in January but remain tied to Brussels’ regulations during the 11-month transition period. The leading Brexiteer has called for a clean-break from the EU and claimed Britain leaving the single market and customs union will cause “catastrophic consequences for Europe”.
President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen
Michel Barnier has offered the UK a two year delay
He told Westmonster: “By the end of this month we will know if the Government has the strength to follow through on what needs to be done. “If they refuse to extend the transition period and commit fully to a December 31 break I will be the first to congratulate them along with all my Brexit Party colleagues. “Be in no doubt, leaving with no deal is the EU’s worst nightmare. “Do they want an island of swashbuckling Anglo-Saxon pirates running a low-tax, low-regulation business haven on their doorstep?
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The UK's Brexit negotiator David Frost
“Of course not. It would show up their centrally planned model for what it is – sclerotic, unaccountable, overbearing and totally outdated. “The Euro is economically unjustifiable and will collapse with catastrophic consequences for Europe.” The EU’s Brexit negotiator and head of taskforce Michel Barnier, last week offered the UK a delay for up to 24 months in a letter to opposition party leaders. The EU chief has attempted to shackle the UK to Brussels throughout the negotiations by insisting on so-called “level-playing field” between the two sides – tying the UK to EU regulations beyond the transition period. READ MORE: Coronavirus map LIVE: Hospital death toll up 133 - huge weekly drop
Michael Gove is confident a deal can be reached
Following the third round of Brexit talks, the Government published its draft legal texts which outlined the UK’s plan to strike a free-trade deal with the European Union. Mr Barnier has since accused the UK’s Brexit negotiating team of wanting the “best of both worlds” by retaining the conditions of being an EU member while leaving the single market and customs union. Mr Barnier said: “The British have not understood or do not want to understand that Brexit has consequences for them. For us too. But also for them. “That after leaving the EU, they cannot have the same conditions and status as when they were members of the European Union. That is your choice. DON'T MISS Prince Charles reveals he was 'lucky' to get light bout of COVID-19 [VIDEO]
Brexit news: Germany panics over deal - 'This is must-do' [INSIGHT]
Furlough cost rises £2.5bn in a WEEK as thousands more signed off [ANALYSIS]
A timeline of Brexit negotiations


thedailyexpress--2020-06-04--Labour makes ‘first' Brexit policy intervention on UK-EU crunch trade talks under Starmer

The UK ’ s chief negotiator David Frost and his EU counterpart Michel Barnier resumed the fourth round of post-Brexit talks this week and there has been little sign of a breakthrough .
Labour frontbencher Rachel Reeves has said this week 's talks are a “ key step in the Government delivering what it promised at the general election in December with the Prime Minister ’ s ‘ oven-ready deal ’ .
” Responding to the remarks from the Labour Party politician , David Henig , from the European Centre For International Political Economy , claimed the intervention was the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ policy on UK-EU talks ” , coming under the leadership of Sir Keir Starmer .
The shadow chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster has called on the Prime Minister secure an “ ambitious , broad , deep and flexible partnership ” with the bloc and one which protects jobs , businesses , environmental and employment standards as well as security .
Ms Reeves said : “ That commitment to an ‘ ambitious , broad , deep and flexible partnership ’ is what the country expects and deserves .
“ We have left the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with our European neighbours that safeguards jobs and businesses , maintains environmental and employment standards and provides a close security partnership to keep people safe.
” The intervention from the opposition comes amid growing concern over a no deal outcome .
Outstanding issues over a free-trade deal , fisheries and law remain and Downing Street has insisted there will be no extension to the December 31 deadline .
Since Sir Keir replaced Jeremy Corbyn in April , the party has distanced itself from Brexit with the new leader keen to put the matter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Sir Keir is the only opposition leader yet to urge the Government to prolong the post-Brexit talks .
Earlier this month , the Labour leader stated it was “ pretty unlikely ” a deal could be reached by the end of the year .
However , Sir Keir , who previously served as shadow Brexit secretary , said he hoped a deal could be reached sooner rather than later and insisted he had not called for a delay because the Government has promised to get Brexit done .
In an interview with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would seek to ensure that the negotiations were completed as quickly as possible .
“ I ’ ve not called for a pause because the government says it ’ s going to get it done by the end of the year .
So let ’ s see how they get on .
“ I don ’ t think it ’ s practical but we ’ re a long way from December so we ’ ll see how we get on .
“ But the government has said we can do it within the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see.
” Prince Charles reveals he was 'lucky ' to get light bout of COVID-19 [ VIDEO ] Brexit news : Germany panics over deal - 'This is must-do ' [ INSIGHT ] Furlough cost rises £2.5bn in a WEEK as thousands more signed off [ ANALYSIS ]

Brexit: Boris Johnson must not apply for extension says caller
The UK’s chief negotiator David Frost and his EU counterpart Michel Barnier resumed the fourth round of post-Brexit talks this week and there has been little sign of a breakthrough. Labour frontbencher Rachel Reeves has said this week's talks are a “key step in the Government delivering what it promised at the general election in December with the Prime Minister’s ‘oven-ready deal’.”
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Responding to the remarks from the Labour Party politician, David Henig, from the European Centre For International Political Economy, claimed the intervention was the “first mention” of “Labour policy on UK-EU talks”, coming under the leadership of Sir Keir Starmer. The shadow chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster has called on the Prime Minister secure an “ambitious, broad, deep and flexible partnership” with the bloc and one which protects jobs, businesses, environmental and employment standards as well as security. Ms Reeves said: “That commitment to an ‘ambitious, broad, deep and flexible partnership’ is what the country expects and deserves.
Sir Keir Starmer has not called for a Brexit extension
David Frost and Michel Barnier are yet to make a breakthrough
“We have left the EU, but need a future relationship with our European neighbours that safeguards jobs and businesses, maintains environmental and employment standards and provides a close security partnership to keep people safe.” The intervention from the opposition comes amid growing concern over a no deal outcome. Outstanding issues over a free-trade deal, fisheries and law remain and Downing Street has insisted there will be no extension to the December 31 deadline.
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Boris Johnson has said the UK will not extend talks beyond December 31
Since Sir Keir replaced Jeremy Corbyn in April, the party has distanced itself from Brexit with the new leader keen to put the matter to an end. Despite growing pressure, Sir Keir is the only opposition leader yet to urge the Government to prolong the post-Brexit talks. Earlier this month, the Labour leader stated it was “pretty unlikely” a deal could be reached by the end of the year. However, Sir Keir, who previously served as shadow Brexit secretary, said he hoped a deal could be reached sooner rather than later and insisted he had not called for a delay because the Government has promised to get Brexit done. READ MORE: Coronavirus map LIVE: Hospital death toll up 133 - huge weekly drop
Sir Keir Starmer replaced Jeremy Corbyn as Labour leader in April
A timeline of Brexit talks until January 2021


thedailyexpress--2020-06-04--Germany panic: Brexit deal chaos causes Berlin chaos - 'This is must-do'

Germany ’ s ambassador to the EU Michael Clauss said Britain and Brussels have made “ no real progress ” in negotiations .
He insisted the two sides must reach an agreement as he admitted Boris Johnson is unlikely to extend the end of 2020 deadline .
Speaking at an event organised by the European Policy Centre think tank , Mr Clauss said : “ This is a must-do .
“ We work under the assumption the UK is not going to ask for an extension .
“ That means a deal needs to be struck in the next six @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the EU added that the UK needs to take a “ more realistic approach ” to trade talks .
He said : “ Is a deal possible ?
Yes , definitely .
“ But I think it also means that the UK needs to have a more realistic approach .
“ To put it short I think we can not have full sovereignty and at the same time full access to the internal market.
” The UK is in a transition period with the EU until December 31 2020 .
READ MORE : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ p*ssed off ' by Frost tactics Mr Johnson has repeatedly insisted he will not push back the deadline despite claims the timeframe is too tight .
The fourth round of trade talks led by the Prime Minister ’ s Europe adviser David Frost and the EU ’ s chief negotiator Michel Barnier are taking place this week .
Negotiations have been continuing remotely during the coronavirus pandemic .
Progress needs to be made ahead of a high-level summit later this month between Mr Johnson and President of the European Commission Ursula von der @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Should UK walk away from negotiations in September ?
[ POLL ] Bank of England warns : Prepare for no-deal Brexit [ INSIGHT ] Brexit progress : Four key reasons ‘ deal could be reached ’ [ ANALYSIS ] A report in The Times earlier this week suggested the UK could compromise on fisheries and the `` level playing field '' trade rules if the EU backs away from its `` maximalist '' demands related to regulatory alignment and fishing access .
A senior diplomatic source told the newspaper : `` There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moving and that is for the UK side to move and then , as Frost knows full well , the EU will move too.
” But the Prime Minister 's official spokesman said : `` This is wishful thinking by the EU .
`` We have always been clear there is no question of splitting the difference on level playing field and fish .

Brexit: Frost says they 'wouldn't agree' to EU extension request
Germany’s ambassador to the EU Michael Clauss said Britain and Brussels have made “no real progress” in negotiations. He insisted the two sides must reach an agreement as he admitted Boris Johnson is unlikely to extend the end of 2020 deadline.
Speaking at an event organised by the European Policy Centre think tank, Mr Clauss said: “This is a must-do. “We work under the assumption the UK is not going to ask for an extension. “That means a deal needs to be struck in the next six months.” Germany’s ambassador to the EU added that the UK needs to take a “more realistic approach” to trade talks.
The UK and the EU must strike a post-Brexit deal by the end of the year, Germany has warned
The UK is in a transition period with the EU until December 31 2020
He said: “Is a deal possible? Yes, definitely. “But I think it also means that the UK needs to have a more realistic approach. “To put it short I think we cannot have full sovereignty and at the same time full access to the internal market.” The UK is in a transition period with the EU until December 31 2020. READ MORE: Brexit trade talks explode as Brussels 'p*ssed off' by Frost tactics
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The fourth round of trade talks led by the Prime Minister’s Europe adviser David Frost and the EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier are taking place this week
Mr Johnson has repeatedly insisted he will not push back the deadline despite claims the timeframe is too tight. The fourth round of trade talks led by the Prime Minister’s Europe adviser David Frost and the EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier are taking place this week. Negotiations have been continuing remotely during the coronavirus pandemic. Progress needs to be made ahead of a high-level summit later this month between Mr Johnson and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. DON'T MISS
Brexit POLL: Should UK walk away from negotiations in September? [POLL]
Bank of England warns: Prepare for no-deal Brexit [INSIGHT]
Brexit progress: Four key reasons ‘deal could be reached’ [ANALYSIS]
Negotiations have been continuing remotely during the coronavirus pandemic
A report in The Times earlier this week suggested the UK could compromise on fisheries and the "level playing field" trade rules if the EU backs away from its "maximalist" demands related to regulatory alignment and fishing access. A senior diplomatic source told the newspaper: "There is only one way to get things moving and that is for the UK side to move and then, as Frost knows full well, the EU will move too.” But the Prime Minister's official spokesman said: "This is wishful thinking by the EU. "We have always been clear there is no question of splitting the difference on level playing field and fish.
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thedailyexpress--2020-06-04--Nicola Sturgeon shame: Scottish leader faces backlash over care home crisis

The latest criticism of the Scotland First Minister from Scottish Conservative leader Jackson Carlaw came after it emerged there have been more deaths related to coronavirus in care homes than hospitals .
The latest data from National Records of Scotland ( NRS ) showed there have been 1,818 deaths in care homes where COVID-19 was mentioned on the death certificate , higher than the 1,815 in hospitals .
Mr Carlaw , also argued Scotland needed to `` do better '' on testing for the virus adding that every person in care homes should be tested .
The Scottish Conservative leader @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people who have been tested and the number of tests carried out showed Scotland had `` one of the worst levels of performance anywhere in the world '' .
Mr Carlaw told BBC Radio Scotland 's Good Morning Scotland programme earlier today : `` If we 're going to get on top of this virus we need to do better than that .
`` And in our care homes we should have appointed a cabinet secretary with complete responsibility for the care home sector , redeployed officials , made it an absolute requirement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of these care homes .
`` And we should have in place , two weeks after the Government made an announcement that they would , testing which means every person in a care home is now being tested , that is not happening in a single health board anywhere in Scotland . ''
He added : `` Until we get on top of this , we are not fulfilling our duty to the care home sector .
`` There is no vaccine for this virus in prospect just now , the risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ongoing one , and we need to deliver on the promise that was made over two weeks ago to test everybody in those care homes .
`` That was the Scottish Government 's commitment and the Scottish Government have not met it . ''
READ MORE : Scotland faces financial ruin as billions could be wiped off economy However , Communities Secretary Aileen Campbell who is responsible for care homes in her ministerial portfolio said that a big effort had been made to increase testing .
She stressed an increase in testing was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be as rigorous and robust and as regular as possible '' .
Also speaking to BBC Radio Scotland 's Good Morning Scotland today , she added : `` We absolutely understand the need to support care homes at this critical time and that is why the capacity has been increased .
“ That is why we are continuing to work as hard as we possibly can , with a range of partners , to increase that capacity , to make sure that capacity is being used , to make sure our care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ DO N'T MISS : SNP shameless bid to use new rules for Scottish independence [ REVEAL ] Nicola Sturgeon leadership at risk of Braveheart-style revolt [ OPINION ] How John Major slated SNP ’ s ‘ incompetent ’ currency policies [ OPINION ] She added : `` The capacity is there , we know how critically important it is to have the tests done . ''
It comes after the boss of one of Scotland ’ s biggest care home groups said they had been “ betrayed ” over testing in care homes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Balhousie Care Group accused ministers of presiding over `` three months of mixed messages , mismanagement and missed opportunities '' .
Speaking about efforts to support the care home sector , Ms Campbell added : `` What we have now in place is increased availability and testing capacity , there is good guidance that was done and delivered .

Nicola Sturgeon slammed over testing care homes by Carlaw
The latest criticism of the Scotland First Minister from Scottish Conservative leader Jackson Carlaw came after it emerged there have been more deaths related to coronavirus in care homes than hospitals. The latest data from National Records of Scotland (NRS) showed there have been 1,818 deaths in care homes where COVID-19 was mentioned on the death certificate, higher than the 1,815 in hospitals.
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Mr Carlaw, also argued Scotland needed to "do better" on testing for the virus adding that every person in care homes should be tested. The Scottish Conservative leader said research on both the number of people who have been tested and the number of tests carried out showed Scotland had "one of the worst levels of performance anywhere in the world". Mr Carlaw told BBC Radio Scotland's Good Morning Scotland programme earlier today: "If we're going to get on top of this virus we need to do better than that. "And in our care homes we should have appointed a cabinet secretary with complete responsibility for the care home sector, redeployed officials, made it an absolute requirement that we get in touch with every one of these care homes.
Nicola Sturgeon with Home Farm where a significant COVID-19 outbreak occurred last month.
The Scottish government is facing a backlash from opposition MPs.
"And we should have in place, two weeks after the Government made an announcement that they would, testing which means every person in a care home is now being tested, that is not happening in a single health board anywhere in Scotland." He added: "Until we get on top of this, we are not fulfilling our duty to the care home sector. "There is no vaccine for this virus in prospect just now, the risk to our care home sector is an ongoing one, and we need to deliver on the promise that was made over two weeks ago to test everybody in those care homes. "That was the Scottish Government's commitment and the Scottish Government have not met it." READ MORE: Scotland faces financial ruin as billions could be wiped off economy
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The SNP has been blasted over it's reputation with care homes.
However, Communities Secretary Aileen Campbell who is responsible for care homes in her ministerial portfolio said that a big effort had been made to increase testing. She stressed an increase in testing was "particularly for sectors that require testing to be as rigorous and robust and as regular as possible". Also speaking to BBC Radio Scotland's Good Morning Scotland today, she added: "We absolutely understand the need to support care homes at this critical time and that is why the capacity has been increased. “That is why we are continuing to work as hard as we possibly can, with a range of partners, to increase that capacity, to make sure that capacity is being used, to make sure our care homes are safe for people." DON'T MISS:
SNP shameless bid to use new rules for Scottish independence [REVEAL]
Nicola Sturgeon leadership at risk of Braveheart-style revolt [OPINION]
How John Major slated SNP’s ‘incompetent’ currency policies [OPINION]
Latest figures show that 1,818 people died in care homes from COVID-19.
She added: "The capacity is there, we know how critically important it is to have the tests done." It comes after the boss of one of Scotland’s biggest care home groups said they had been “betrayed” over testing in care homes. Tony Banks, who runs the Balhousie Care Group accused ministers of presiding over "three months of mixed messages, mismanagement and missed opportunities". Speaking about efforts to support the care home sector, Ms Campbell added: "What we have now in place is increased availability and testing capacity, there is good guidance that was done and delivered.
Strict care regimes are now in place across British care homes.


thedailyexpress--2020-06-04--Boris facing another TWO WEEKS in coronavirus isolation as PM nervously awaits test result

Mr Johnson , who spent three nights in intensive care after contracting the disease in March , could be sidelined for another fortnight if Mr Sharma , pictured sweating and looking ill in Parliament yesterday , turns out to be infected with coronavirus .
The Prime Minister 's official spokesman confirmed the PM and Chancellor Rishi Sunak , who would presumably also need to go into isolation , had held a 45-minute socially distanced meeting on the economy with Mr Sharma on Tuesday .
The spokesman said Mr Johnson would follow medical advice if spoken to by contact tracers , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sharma 's test for COVID-19 comes back positive .
Downing Street said the Government was not reconsidering its move to end virtual voting in the Commons , despite the Business Secretary appearing visibly ill in the chamber on Wednesday .
The spokesman said : `` He does not yet have his test results .
`` Should the Secretary of State receive a positive test then he will work with the test and trace service to share information about his recent interactions .
`` He did attend a meeting in No 10 , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a discussion on the economy and in terms of who was present , it was the Prime Minister , the Chancellor and the Business Secretary . ''
He stressed the meeting took place with two-metre distancing in place and pointed towards the Government guidelines on how the tracers operate , which include asking individuals whether they had been to a workplace recently .
The spokesman confirmed that even those who have had Covid-19 must isolate and , when pressed on whether the PM would self-isolate if told to , he said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advice and to follow it . ''
READ MORE : Coronavirus in Parliament ?
Alok Sharma self-isolates after shock video The dispatch box where Mr Sharma had been speaking was deep-cleaned after the incident involving Mr Sharma , which came the day after MPs were required to vote in person at the House of Commons , resulting in lengthy queues in which was quickly dubbed the `` Rees-Mogg Conga '' in reference to Jacob Rees-Mogg , leader of the House of Commons .
Mr Rees-Mogg today faced calls his resignation , with Labour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Commons : `` Can he show some bravery and make time next week for us to debate his disastrous record and perhaps even call for his resignation ? ''
He replied : `` What she has said is so overcooked , exaggerated , we poor members , we could n't queue for a little time to do our public duty , how hard was it .
`` It was very amusing reading in The Times how some members were quite incapable of walking in the right direction , but I think that 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Downing Street said the Government was not planning to review its move to end virtual voting in the Commons after Mr Sharma was taken ill. JUST IN : London pubs reopening : Young 's announces plans to serve pints again Asked if there would be a review of the measures , the Prime Minister 's official spokesman said : `` There is n't .
`` This week Parliament has agreed a way forward which will allow for people who are shielding or over 70 to take part in proxy voting and also to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in person are able to contribute to proceedings . ''
Former Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell tweeted : `` I wish Alok Sharma a speedy recovery but this confirms that lives of both staff & MPs are being put at risk in Parliament .
DO N'T MISS ... Bill Turnbull in Matt Hancock swipe as MP laughs about Cummings claim [ COMMENT ] Labour backlash : Jon Ashworth accused of 'political point-scoring ' [ REACTION ] 'Get her off ! '
Sturgeon suffers furious backlash after BBC interview [ VIDEO ] '' It was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson to force open Parliament .
`` It must now revert to lockdown & online operation . ''
Tory MP Robert Halfon , who has cerebral palsy and is therefore in the shielding group , has also been critical of the decision to end virtual voting .
On Tuesday he tweeted : `` I want MPs to return to Parliament as children are beginning a phased return to schools .
`` However , for those MPs that are sick , shielding or self-isolating , I think it is only right that they should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by proxy . ''
If Mr Johnson is forced back into isolation , it will be a significant blow , coming at a time when the lockdown is being eased across the UK .
The Prime Minister has already fought off one bout of COVID-19 - but there is no firm evidence previous infections offer immunity to future ones .
During his spell in Guy 's and St Thomas ' hospital , Mr Johnson was dangerously ill and admitted he owed his life to the care provided by the NHS .

Alok Sharma wipes face during speech in parliament
Mr Johnson, who spent three nights in intensive care after contracting the disease in March, could be sidelined for another fortnight if Mr Sharma, pictured sweating and looking ill in Parliament yesterday, turns out to be infected with coronavirus. The Prime Minister's official spokesman confirmed the PM and Chancellor Rishi Sunak, who would presumably also need to go into isolation, had held a 45-minute socially distanced meeting on the economy with Mr Sharma on Tuesday.
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The spokesman said Mr Johnson would follow medical advice if spoken to by contact tracers, who will begin their work if Mr Sharma's test for COVID-19 comes back positive. Downing Street said the Government was not reconsidering its move to end virtual voting in the Commons, despite the Business Secretary appearing visibly ill in the chamber on Wednesday. The spokesman said: "He does not yet have his test results. "Should the Secretary of State receive a positive test then he will work with the test and trace service to share information about his recent interactions. "He did attend a meeting in No 10, which took place before Cabinet. That was a discussion on the economy and in terms of who was present, it was the Prime Minister, the Chancellor and the Business Secretary." He stressed the meeting took place with two-metre distancing in place and pointed towards the Government guidelines on how the tracers operate, which include asking individuals whether they had been to a workplace recently. The spokesman confirmed that even those who have had Covid-19 must isolate and, when pressed on whether the PM would self-isolate if told to, he said: "I would expect us to take medical advice and to follow it." READ MORE: Coronavirus in Parliament? Alok Sharma self-isolates after shock video
Boris Johnson could be set for another spell in quarantine
Boris Johnson in the Commons yesterday
The dispatch box where Mr Sharma had been speaking was deep-cleaned after the incident involving Mr Sharma, which came the day after MPs were required to vote in person at the House of Commons, resulting in lengthy queues in which was quickly dubbed the "Rees-Mogg Conga" in reference to Jacob Rees-Mogg, leader of the House of Commons. Mr Rees-Mogg today faced calls his resignation, with Labour former minister Angela Eagle saying in the Commons: "Can he show some bravery and make time next week for us to debate his disastrous record and perhaps even call for his resignation?" He replied: "What she has said is so overcooked, exaggerated, we poor members, we couldn't queue for a little time to do our public duty, how hard was it. "It was very amusing reading in The Times how some members were quite incapable of walking in the right direction, but I think that's more their problem than mine." Downing Street said the Government was not planning to review its move to end virtual voting in the Commons after Mr Sharma was taken ill. JUST IN: London pubs reopening: Young's announces plans to serve pints again
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John McDonnell's tweet about Alok Sharma
Chancellor Rishi Sunak was also in the meeting
"It was an irresponsible decision by Rees Mogg & Johnson to force open Parliament. "It must now revert to lockdown & online operation." Tory MP Robert Halfon, who has cerebral palsy and is therefore in the shielding group, has also been critical of the decision to end virtual voting. On Tuesday he tweeted: "I want MPs to return to Parliament as children are beginning a phased return to schools.
Social distancing explained
"However, for those MPs that are sick, shielding or self-isolating, I think it is only right that they should be able to continue voting online or by proxy." If Mr Johnson is forced back into isolation, it will be a significant blow, coming at a time when the lockdown is being eased across the UK. The Prime Minister has already fought off one bout of COVID-19 - but there is no firm evidence previous infections offer immunity to future ones. During his spell in Guy's and St Thomas' hospital, Mr Johnson was dangerously ill and admitted he owed his life to the care provided by the NHS.
Leader of the House of Commons Jacob Rees-Mogg


thedailyexpress--2020-06-04--Sturgeon told she's 'failed' students as figures show LESS THAN HALF learning in one area

Nicola Sturgeon plans to reopen schools on August 11 , but with a combination of in-school teaching and at-home learning .
But the Scottish government is facing a backlash from opposition MPs claiming that a large number of secondary school pupils were not engaging with important online learning whilst their schools were closed due to COVID-19 .
The first minister was questioned on the issue at Holyrood yesterday after figures released by Fife Council that just 42 percent of secondary pupils had engaged with their schools ’ remote teaching programmes during April .
Alexander Stewart , Tory MSP for Mid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ children were missing would set children back significantly in their Education progress .
The report , produced by Fife Council blamed the lack of IT availability or skills was the biggest barrier as being able to engage with studying .
The figures did suggest a 77 percent participation rate however for primary school pupils in the last week of April .
Across Scotland , whilst schools are closed , pupils are issued work on the Scottish schools national intranet called GLOW .
In response , the Scottish First Minister said it would continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ August 11 .
She also stressed funding had been allocated to provide children from poorer areas with electronic devices to help their home learning .
Meanwhile , Fife Council said that engagement had increased but further improvement was needed and teachers were supporting families where barriers were identified .
READ MORE : Nicola Sturgeon and Emmanuel Macron 's plot to stop Brexit exposed It comes at the same time as data revealed that 600 primary schools in Scotland have not been inspected for a decade or more with one not being inspected for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Labour MSP Daniel Johnson who represents Edinburgh South branded the revelation as “ staggering ” .
The figures , released under Freedom of Information , revealed that 604 primaries have not been inspected for ten years or more .
The data revealed that 201 primary schools were inspected in 2018-19 , more than double the total of 97 from 2014-15 .
DO N'T MISS : How Andrew Neil exposed ‘ time wasting on independence ' [ REVEAL ] ‘ Disaster ’ Corbyn was handed path to Number 10 but froze out Scots @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down on Scottish lockdown after days [ REVEAL ]

Nicola Sturgeon warns she won’t ‘hesitate’ to toughen lockdown
Nicola Sturgeon plans to reopen schools on August 11, but with a combination of in-school teaching and at-home learning. But the Scottish government is facing a backlash from opposition MPs claiming that a large number of secondary school pupils were not engaging with important online learning whilst their schools were closed due to COVID-19.
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The first minister was questioned on the issue at Holyrood yesterday after figures released by Fife Council that just 42 percent of secondary pupils had engaged with their schools’ remote teaching programmes during April. Alexander Stewart, Tory MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife stressed that the months children were missing would set children back significantly in their Education progress. The report, produced by Fife Council blamed the lack of IT availability or skills was the biggest barrier as being able to engage with studying. The figures did suggest a 77 percent participation rate however for primary school pupils in the last week of April.
Nicola Sturgeon plans to reopen schools on August 11th.
The lack of virtual engagement from students has been mentioned by MPs.
Across Scotland, whilst schools are closed, pupils are issued work on the Scottish schools national intranet called GLOW. In response, the Scottish First Minister said it would continue to support schools ahead of reopening on August 11. She also stressed funding had been allocated to provide children from poorer areas with electronic devices to help their home learning. Meanwhile, Fife Council said that engagement had increased but further improvement was needed and teachers were supporting families where barriers were identified. READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon and Emmanuel Macron's plot to stop Brexit exposed
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The Scottish government is facing a backlash from critics.
It comes at the same time as data revealed that 600 primary schools in Scotland have not been inspected for a decade or more with one not being inspected for 16 years. Speaking in Holyrood yesterday, Labour MSP Daniel Johnson who represents Edinburgh South branded the revelation as “staggering”. The figures, released under Freedom of Information, revealed that 604 primaries have not been inspected for ten years or more. The data revealed that 201 primary schools were inspected in 2018-19, more than double the total of 97 from 2014-15. DON'T MISS:
How Andrew Neil exposed ‘time wasting on independence' [REVEAL]
‘Disaster’ Corbyn was handed path to Number 10 but froze out Scots [OPINION]
Nicola Sturgeon threatens clap down on Scottish lockdown after days [REVEAL]
Many students in England have already returned to school.


thedailyexpress--2020-06-05--Brexit bust up: David Frost statement in FULL as trade talks on brink

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David Frost , @ @ @ @ @ negotiator and Michel Barnier have continued talks and progress towards Brexit while the deadly COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ EU representative has recently revealed there have been no `` significant areas of progress '' @ @ @ @ @ a statement released on Friday , Mr Frost said the process was testing the limits @ @ @ @ @ said : `` We are now at an important moment for these talks .
`` @ @ @ @ @ the limits of what we can achieve through the format of remote formal rounds .
@ @ @ @ @ make progress , it is clear that we must intensify and accelerate our work .
@ @ @ @ @ progress !
Barnier lashes out at UK as Brexit talks crumble

Brexit: Nathalie Loiseau addresses Frost's 'aggressive letter'
David Frost, the UK's chief Brexit negotiator and Michel Barnier have continued talks and progress towards Brexit while the deadly COVID-19 pandemic rages on. The EU representative has recently revealed there have been no "significant areas of progress" in the process.
Trending
In a statement released on Friday, Mr Frost said the process was testing the limits of remote exchanges. He said: "We are now at an important moment for these talks. "We are close to reaching the limits of what we can achieve through the format of remote formal rounds. "If we are to make progress, it is clear that we must intensify and accelerate our work." READ MORE: No progress! Barnier lashes out at UK as Brexit talks crumble
Brexit bust up: David Frost statement in FULL as trade talks on brink
Brexit bust up: Michel Barnier and David Frost have opened up on the difficult nature of remote talks
READ MORE Fury as Brussels demands UK pay £280m into recovery fund - We've left "We are discussing with the commission how this can best be done. "We need to conclude this negotiation in good time to enable people and businesses to have certainty about the trading terms that will follow the end of the transition period at the end of this year, and, if necessary, to allow ratification of any agreements reached. "For our part we are willing to work hard to see whether at least the outline of a balanced agreement, covering all issues, can be reached soon. "Any such deal must of course accommodate the reality of the UK's well-established position on the so-called 'level playing field', on fisheries, and the other difficult issues."
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Brexit bust up: David Frost said the UK is at an "important" moment in talks
Brexit bust up: Michel Barnier said the door is still open for an extension
READ MORE Boris to step in as EU refuses to back down in Brexit trade talks The Prime Minister and his top officials have all ruled out the possibility of an extension, which the EU has signalled it is keen to secure during the global crisis. Despite British refusal to give in, Mr Barnier said the "door is still open" should talks fall into further difficulties. He said: "All we are asking for is the political declaration to be complied with. "There has been no significant progress on these points, not since the start of negotiations, and I don't think we can go on like this forever."


thedailyexpress--2020-06-05--Frost sends no deal warning to EU as Brexit talks hit by crisis - 'We are reaching limit!'

David Frost , Britain 's chief negotiator , said the UK was `` reaching the limits of what we can achieve '' in a thinly-veiled warning of a no deal Brexit .
But he said the tone of the talks with the EU had been `` positive '' and that if further progress was to be made the two sides needed to `` intensify and accelerate '' their work rate .
The four days of negotiations marked the final opportunity for the two sides to move the process forward before a potentially make-or-break high-level summit later this month .
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to accomodate the UK 's well established position on a `` level playing field '' .
He said : “ We have just completed our fourth full negotiating round with the EU , again by video conference .
It was a little shorter than usual and more restricted in scope .
We continue to discuss the full range of issues , including the most difficult ones .
“ Progress remains limited but our talks have been positive in tone .
Negotiations will continue and we remain committed to a successful outcome .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for these talks .
We are close to reaching the limits of what we can achieve through the format of remote formal Rounds .
If we are to make progress , it is clear that we must intensify and accelerate our work .
We are discussing with the Commission how this can best be done .
`` We need to conclude this negotiation in good time to enable people and businesses to have certainty about the trading terms that will follow the end of the transition period at the end of this year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allow ratification of any agreements reached .
READ MORE : No progress !
Barnier lashes out at UK as Brexit talks crumble “ For our part we are willing to work hard to see whether at least the outline of a balanced agreement , covering all issues , can be reached soon .
Any such deal must of course accommodate the reality of the UK ’ s well-established position on the so-called 'level playing field ' , on fisheries , and the other difficult issues.
” His comments come after the EU 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had been `` no significant areas of progress '' and both sides must agree on a deal by October 31 .
Mr Barnier also accused the UK of having backtracked on the political declaration , telling a Brussels press conference that the negotiating teams were still `` very far '' from reaching agreement on the level playing field , nuclear safety , and anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism funding .
READ MORE : Michel Barnier in shocking swipe at UK as he insists 'no progress ' [ VIDEO ] Brexit bust up : David @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on brink [ EXPLAINER ] Boris to step in as EU refuses to back down in Brexit trade talks [ INSIGHT ] He said `` round after round '' the UK had sought `` to distance themselves '' from the political declaration agreed by the EU and Prime Minister Boris Johnson .
The UK has until the end of June to seek an extension to the current transition period - which finishes at the end of the year - to allow more time for discussions .
Mr Barnier said `` the door is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seek an extension to the current transition period before the end of June to allow more time for discussions , but the Prime Minister has vowed not to extend this .
The EU 's negotiator told a Brussels press conference : `` My responsibility is to speak the truth and to tell the truth this week there have been no significant areas of progress . ''
On the key area of fisheries , he said the UK has `` not shown any true will '' to explore compromises .
And he said both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from reaching agreement on the level playing field , nuclear safety and anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism funding . ''
But Mr Johnson has remained defiant and vowed there will not be a Brexit delay .
The latest talks got off to an unpromising start with a series of testy exchanges between London and Brussels before the official online negotiations had begun .

Brexit: 'No significant areas of progress’ says Michel Barnier
David Frost, Britain's chief negotiator, said the UK was "reaching the limits of what we can achieve" in a thinly-veiled warning of a no deal Brexit. But he said the tone of the talks with the EU had been "positive" and that if further progress was to be made the two sides needed to "intensify and accelerate" their work rate.
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The four days of negotiations marked the final opportunity for the two sides to move the process forward before a potentially make-or-break high-level summit later this month. Mr Frost said any Brexit deal would have to accomodate the UK's well established position on a "level playing field". He said: “We have just completed our fourth full negotiating round with the EU, again by video conference. It was a little shorter than usual and more restricted in scope. We continue to discuss the full range of issues, including the most difficult ones.
David Frost has sent a warning shot the EU
Brexit news: Michel Barnier furiously attacked the UK
“Progress remains limited but our talks have been positive in tone. Negotiations will continue and we remain committed to a successful outcome. “We are now at an important moment for these talks. We are close to reaching the limits of what we can achieve through the format of remote formal Rounds. If we are to make progress, it is clear that we must intensify and accelerate our work. We are discussing with the Commission how this can best be done. "We need to conclude this negotiation in good time to enable people and businesses to have certainty about the trading terms that will follow the end of the transition period at the end of this year, and, if necessary, to allow ratification of any agreements reached. READ MORE: No progress! Barnier lashes out at UK as Brexit talks crumble
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Michel Barnier hit out at the 'little progres' made in Brexit talks
“For our part we are willing to work hard to see whether at least the outline of a balanced agreement, covering all issues, can be reached soon. Any such deal must of course accommodate the reality of the UK’s well-established position on the so-called 'level playing field', on fisheries, and the other difficult issues.” His comments come after the EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier said there had been "no significant areas of progress" and both sides must agree on a deal by October 31. Mr Barnier also accused the UK of having backtracked on the political declaration, telling a Brussels press conference that the negotiating teams were still "very far" from reaching agreement on the level playing field, nuclear safety, and anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism funding. READ MORE:
Michel Barnier in shocking swipe at UK as he insists 'no progress' [VIDEO]
Brexit bust up: David Frost statement in FULL as trade talks on brink [EXPLAINER]
Boris to step in as EU refuses to back down in Brexit trade talks [INSIGHT]
David Frost said the UK was reaching it's limit
Boris Johnson has insisted there will not be a Brexit delay
Brexit: ‘We will not accept this backtracking’ warns Barnier
He said "round after round" the UK had sought "to distance themselves" from the political declaration agreed by the EU and Prime Minister Boris Johnson. The UK has until the end of June to seek an extension to the current transition period - which finishes at the end of the year - to allow more time for discussions. Mr Barnier said "the door is still open" for the UK to seek an extension to the current transition period before the end of June to allow more time for discussions, but the Prime Minister has vowed not to extend this.
The Brexit timeline for the UK's departure from the EU
The EU's negotiator told a Brussels press conference: "My responsibility is to speak the truth and to tell the truth this week there have been no significant areas of progress." On the key area of fisheries, he said the UK has "not shown any true will" to explore compromises. And he said both sides were still "very far" from reaching agreement on the level playing field, nuclear safety and anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism funding." But Mr Johnson has remained defiant and vowed there will not be a Brexit delay. The latest talks got off to an unpromising start with a series of testy exchanges between London and Brussels before the official online negotiations had begun.


thedailyexpress--2020-06-05--Boris Johnson crisis: Approval ratings plummet 40 points - shock poll

The Prime Minister 's approval rating has drastically plummeted by 40 points since mid-April after he was hit by criticism over easing coronavirus lockdown restrictions , COVID-19 in care homes and his adviser Dominic Cummings .
Mr Johnson previously had a net approval rating of 38 , according to Redfield & Wilton Strategies .
This is now at minus five , a huge turnaround in less than two months .
In April , the Redfield & Wilton Strategies research for the Mail Online found 59 percent approved of Mr Johnson 's handling .
21 percent disapproved and 20 percent were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ paints a much bleaker picture for Boris , with just 39 percent approving .
44 percent disapprove and 16 percent are neutral .
Mr Johnson ’ s government has been heavily criticised for its response to the pandemic , with opposition politicians , unions and scientists accusing it of being too slow to introduce a lockdown , mass testing and protective equipment for medical staff .
Official statistics show the UK 's COVID-19 death toll has reached nearly 40,000 , underlining the country ’ s status as the worst-hit in Europe and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ slow to protect the elderly in nursing homes and too slow to build a test and trace system .
Mr Johnson also came under pressure to sack his chief adviser Dominic Cummings over his alleged flouting of lockdown rules when he drove to Durham .
READ MORE : Coronavirus map LIVE : Fury as EU states lash out at UK Around 40 Tory MPs called for Mr Cummings to resign or be fired after his 260-mile journey came to light .
But this week Mr Johnsons insisted he was `` very proud '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grim milestone on COVID-related deaths .
Mr Johnson told Labour leader Keir Starmer : “ I take full responsibility for everything this government has been doing in tackling coronavirus , and I ’ m very proud of our record .
`` If you look at what we have achieved so far , it is very considerable .

Boris Johnson’s quarantine rules labelled ‘absurd’ by Nick Ferrari
The Prime Minister's approval rating has drastically plummeted by 40 points since mid-April after he was hit by criticism over easing coronavirus lockdown restrictions, COVID-19 in care homes and his adviser Dominic Cummings. Mr Johnson previously had a net approval rating of 38, according to Redfield & Wilton Strategies.
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This is now at minus five, a huge turnaround in less than two months. In April, the Redfield & Wilton Strategies research for the Mail Online found 59 percent approved of Mr Johnson's handling. 21 percent disapproved and 20 percent were neutral. Their poll earlier this week paints a much bleaker picture for Boris, with just 39 percent approving. 44 percent disapprove and 16 percent are neutral.
Boris Johnson's approval ratings have slumped
Boris Johnson is under pressure over his handling of the coronavirus crisis
Mr Johnson’s government has been heavily criticised for its response to the pandemic, with opposition politicians, unions and scientists accusing it of being too slow to introduce a lockdown, mass testing and protective equipment for medical staff. Official statistics show the UK's COVID-19 death toll has reached nearly 40,000, underlining the country’s status as the worst-hit in Europe and the government has faced criticism for being too slow to protect the elderly in nursing homes and too slow to build a test and trace system. Mr Johnson also came under pressure to sack his chief adviser Dominic Cummings over his alleged flouting of lockdown rules when he drove to Durham. READ MORE: Coronavirus map LIVE: Fury as EU states lash out at UK
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Boris Johnson's popularity is being tested during the coronavirus pandemic
Boris Johnson's popularity ratings were high in April
Boris Johnson was under pressure to fire Dominic Cummings
Around 40 Tory MPs called for Mr Cummings to resign or be fired after his 260-mile journey came to light. But this week Mr Johnsons insisted he was "very proud" of the Government's record despite the grim milestone on COVID-related deaths.
Coronavirus cases in the UK
Mr Johnson told Labour leader Keir Starmer: “I take full responsibility for everything this government has been doing in tackling coronavirus, and I’m very proud of our record. "If you look at what we have achieved so far, it is very considerable.


thedailyexpress--2020-06-05--World must come together like NATO to find coronavirus vaccine, Boris Johnson tells summit

Hosting a virtual global summit to discuss the search for a vaccine , the Prime Minister said the world needed a similar commitment to “ collective defence '' against a `` common enemy ” to stamp out the disease .
The UK-hosted event , involving representatives from more than 50 countries including at least 30 national leaders , raised nearly £7billion for Gavi , the Vaccine Alliance to fight coronavirus and other diseases .
Closing the summit last night , the Prime Minister said : “ We now need the same spirit of collective defence against the common enemy of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a new international effort to cooperate on the surveillance and the sharing of information - data is king - that can underpin a global alert system so we can rapidly identify any future outbreak .
“ And it will need a radical scaling up of our global capacity to respond.
” Mr Johnson said the cash raised at the summit will save up to eight million lives .
He said : “ Our actions will also help healthcare systems in the world ’ s poorest countries which are increasingly victims of coronavirus .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to unite , to forge a path of global cooperation .
“ And let us also renew our collective resolve to find that vaccine - who knows how soon it will come , let ’ s hope it comes as soon as possible - that in the end can defeat coronavirus.
” He pointed out that the UK had already committed £764million for the global coronavirus response .
“ I ’ m proud to say some of the most promising research into vaccines is happening right here in the UK , supported by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are pioneering innovative collaborations to manufacture and distribute a vaccine once we have found it.
” Official data last night showed that the UK ’ s daily death toll rose by 176 yesterday to a total of 39,904 .
World leaders , health officials and vaccine campaigners addressed the virtual summit with video messages yesterday .
At the opening of the event , Mr Johnson said : `` To defeat coronavirus we must focus our collective ingenuity on the search for a vaccine and ensure that countries , pharmaceutical companies and international partners @ @ @ @ @ @ @ co-operate on a scale beyond anything we have seen before .
`` We must use the collective purchasing power of Gavi , the vaccine alliance , to make that future vaccine affordable and available to all who need it .
`` If we are to make this the beginning of a new era of global health collaboration , we must also replenish the funding for the vaccines we already have , strengthening the routine immunisation against preventable diseases in the poorest countries . ''
Mr Johnson said the UK would remain the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £1.65 billion over the next five years .
`` I urge you to join us , to fortify this lifesaving alliance , and inaugurate a new era of global health co-operation which I believe is now the most essential shared endeavour of our lifetimes . ''
Philanthropist Bill Gates was among the high-profile vaccine campaigners taking part in the summit .
He told the event : “ I want to thank the UK and Prime Minister Boris Johnson for hosting this summit and for their generosity.
” Speaking earlier ahead of the event @ @ @ @ @ @ @ news about coronavirus was spreading on the internet .

Boris Johnson calls for ‘spirit of collaboration’ against diseases
Hosting a virtual global summit to discuss the search for a vaccine, the Prime Minister said the world needed a similar commitment to “collective defence" against a "common enemy” to stamp out the disease. The UK-hosted event, involving representatives from more than 50 countries including at least 30 national leaders, raised nearly £7billion for Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance to fight coronavirus and other diseases. Closing the summit last night, the Prime Minister said: “We now need the same spirit of collective defence against the common enemy of the disease.
“It will require a new international effort to cooperate on the surveillance and the sharing of information - data is king - that can underpin a global alert system so we can rapidly identify any future outbreak. “And it will need a radical scaling up of our global capacity to respond.” Mr Johnson said the cash raised at the summit will save up to eight million lives. He said: “Our actions will also help healthcare systems in the world’s poorest countries which are increasingly victims of coronavirus. “So today we make the choice to unite, to forge a path of global cooperation. “And let us also renew our collective resolve to find that vaccine - who knows how soon it will come, let’s hope it comes as soon as possible - that in the end can defeat coronavirus.”
Boris Johnson delivers a speech to the virtual Global Vaccine Summit at 10 Downing Street in London
He pointed out that the UK had already committed £764million for the global coronavirus response. “I’m proud to say some of the most promising research into vaccines is happening right here in the UK, supported by our vaccine task force. “We are pioneering innovative collaborations to manufacture and distribute a vaccine once we have found it.” Official data last night showed that the UK’s daily death toll rose by 176 yesterday to a total of 39,904. World leaders, health officials and vaccine campaigners addressed the virtual summit with video messages yesterday. At the opening of the event, Mr Johnson said: "To defeat coronavirus we must focus our collective ingenuity on the search for a vaccine and ensure that countries, pharmaceutical companies and international partners, like the World Health Organisation, co-operate on a scale beyond anything we have seen before. "We must use the collective purchasing power of Gavi, the vaccine alliance, to make that future vaccine affordable and available to all who need it.
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"If we are to make this the beginning of a new era of global health collaboration, we must also replenish the funding for the vaccines we already have, strengthening the routine immunisation against preventable diseases in the poorest countries." Mr Johnson said the UK would remain the world's leading donor to Gavi - contributing £1.65 billion over the next five years. "I urge you to join us, to fortify this lifesaving alliance, and inaugurate a new era of global health co-operation which I believe is now the most essential shared endeavour of our lifetimes." Philanthropist Bill Gates was among the high-profile vaccine campaigners taking part in the summit. He told the event: “I want to thank the UK and Prime Minister Boris Johnson for hosting this summit and for their generosity.” Speaking earlier ahead of the event, the Microsoft co-founder warned that fake news about coronavirus was spreading on the internet.
Boris Johnson watches the speech of Bill Gates