thedailyexpress--2020-06-01--Brexit trade talks on brink of COLLAPSE: UK chiefs blasts Barnier 'We're INDEPENDENT!'

Sources close to the talks hit back after Eurocrat Michel Barnier claimed the UK is not sticking to its side of the deal .
The negotiator claimed the UK has taken “ two steps back , three steps back ” from its original negotiating commitments .
And he trashed the country ’ s vote to quit the bloc , saying it was a `` lose-lose '' for both sides .
But a source close to the negotiations said Brussels was continuing push for an overarching deal on future relations that includes an agreement on fishing rights , despite signing up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that a separate agreement on fish should be in force in July .
“ They clearly need to reconsider their position to avoid backsliding on the agreement made last autumn , and stop making demands incompatible with our future status as an independent coastal state , ” the source said .
The latest round of talks will set the scene for a crucial video conference between Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen next month to take stock of progress made so far .
Relations between the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the talks , particularly over fishing rights and so-called level-playing field demands that would keep Britain tied to Brussels rules .
Mr Johnson is said to be ready to walk away from negotiations in September if the EU continues to drag its feet .
Britain has until July 1 to decide whether to extend the transition period , which keeps existing rules in place until the end of the year .
The EU has repeatedly offered to extend the talks but UK negotiator David Frost insists the deadline will not be shifted because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ freedom ” and does not want to pay `` significant '' amounts into EU coffers .
It is believed that talks would be unlikely to be resumed in the same form once the transition period has ended .
Senior government sources insisted the UK is “ driving any progress ” and the EU is “ either not ready or not willing to inject momentum ” .
They called for some “ political reality ” in Brussels and warned negotiators can not “ use their usual tactic of delay ” to drag the talks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that during the last round of talks , the EU would not engage with the proposals put forward by the British team and continued to stick to their own unnegotiable positions .
But the UK believes that its clear and firm position has sounded alarm bells for some EU countries about the risks of failing to make progress soon .
The government has made it clear it will not cave in to demands for fishing rights for European vessels to remain the same as they are now .
READ MORE : Why Brussels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fight for survival Brussels also wants a so-called level playing field , a set of common rules and standards , that the UK would have to abide by , which has caused major tensions .
Mr Barnier told a Sunday newspaper there would not be an `` agreement at any cost '' and accused Britain of not keeping its commitments .
`` The UK has been taking a step back - two steps back , three steps back - from the original commitments , '' the EU 's chief negotiator said .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in line with what the Prime Minister signed-up to with us .
`` Because 27 heads of state and government and the European Parliament do not have a short memory . ''
Mr Barnier said the EU 's heads of state remembered `` very clearly the text which we negotiated with Boris Johnson '' .
DO N'T MISS No deal Brexit will hurt ‘ very weak ’ EU more than UK [ ANALYSIS ] Do n't even DARE !
David Frost rejects EU 's desperate Brexit extension [ WARNING ] Andrew Neil mocks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ INSIGHT ] '' And we just want to see that complied with .
To the letter ... and if that does n't happen there will be no agreement , '' he told the paper .
Mr Barnier insisted UK withdrawal from the EU was a `` lose-lose '' for both sides , saying no-one - not even Nigel Farage - had shown there was any `` added value '' to the UK 's departure .
He said that meant the next natural next step in trade negotiations was `` damage limitation '' , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would result in `` even more consequences '' at the worst time possible , given the coronavirus pandemic .
`` So , I think we have a joint responsibility in this very serious crisis , which affects so many families ... with so many deaths , so many sick people , so many people unemployed ... to do everything we can to reach an agreement and I very much hope that we will do so , '' he said .
Leading Brexiteer Andrew Bridgen said the demands Mr Barnier was making were “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be expected to abide by so-called level playing field rules now and in the future or to commit to allowing unfettered access to their fishing waters in perpetuity .
“ No independent sovereign nations could agreed to these demands .
”

Brexit: David Frost insists UK ‘will not extend transition period’
Sources close to the talks hit back after Eurocrat Michel Barnier claimed the UK is not sticking to its side of the deal. The negotiator claimed the UK has taken “two steps back, three steps back” from its original negotiating commitments. And he trashed the country’s vote to quit the bloc, saying it was a "lose-lose" for both sides.
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But a source close to the negotiations said Brussels was continuing push for an overarching deal on future relations that includes an agreement on fishing rights, despite signing up to negotiating terms that clearly set out that a separate agreement on fish should be in force in July. “They clearly need to reconsider their position to avoid backsliding on the agreement made last autumn, and stop making demands incompatible with our future status as an independent coastal state,” the source said. The latest round of talks will set the scene for a crucial video conference between Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen next month to take stock of progress made so far.
Brexit fears: Anger is brewing over the breakdown in talks
Relations between the UK and EU have become increasingly strained during the talks, particularly over fishing rights and so-called level-playing field demands that would keep Britain tied to Brussels rules. Mr Johnson is said to be ready to walk away from negotiations in September if the EU continues to drag its feet. Britain has until July 1 to decide whether to extend the transition period, which keeps existing rules in place until the end of the year. The EU has repeatedly offered to extend the talks but UK negotiator David Frost insists the deadline will not be shifted because the country needs “political and economic freedom” and does not want to pay "significant" amounts into EU coffers. It is believed that talks would be unlikely to be resumed in the same form once the transition period has ended.
The UK has been taking a step back - two steps back, three steps back Michel Barnier
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Senior government sources insisted the UK is “driving any progress” and the EU is “either not ready or not willing to inject momentum”. They called for some “political reality” in Brussels and warned negotiators cannot “use their usual tactic of delay” to drag the talks into the autumn. It is understood that during the last round of talks, the EU would not engage with the proposals put forward by the British team and continued to stick to their own unnegotiable positions. But the UK believes that its clear and firm position has sounded alarm bells for some EU countries about the risks of failing to make progress soon. The government has made it clear it will not cave in to demands for fishing rights for European vessels to remain the same as they are now. READ MORE: Why Brussels needs Brexit trade deal with UK in fight for survival
Brexit: David Frost and Michel Barnier will restart talks on Tuesday
Brussels also wants a so-called level playing field, a set of common rules and standards, that the UK would have to abide by, which has caused major tensions. Mr Barnier told a Sunday newspaper there would not be an "agreement at any cost" and accused Britain of not keeping its commitments. "The UK has been taking a step back - two steps back, three steps back - from the original commitments," the EU's chief negotiator said. "The UK negotiators need to be fully in line with what the Prime Minister signed-up to with us. "Because 27 heads of state and government and the European Parliament do not have a short memory." Mr Barnier said the EU's heads of state remembered "very clearly the text which we negotiated with Boris Johnson". DON'T MISS
No deal Brexit will hurt ‘very weak’ EU more than UK [ANALYSIS]
Don't even DARE! David Frost rejects EU's desperate Brexit extension [WARNING]
Andrew Neil mocks Remainers for Nissan's EU snub [INSIGHT]
"And we just want to see that complied with. To the letter... and if that doesn't happen there will be no agreement," he told the paper. Mr Barnier insisted UK withdrawal from the EU was a "lose-lose" for both sides, saying no-one - not even Nigel Farage - had shown there was any "added value" to the UK's departure. He said that meant the next natural next step in trade negotiations was "damage limitation", and if no agreement were reached that would result in "even more consequences" at the worst time possible, given the coronavirus pandemic. "So, I think we have a joint responsibility in this very serious crisis, which affects so many families... with so many deaths, so many sick people, so many people unemployed... to do everything we can to reach an agreement and I very much hope that we will do so," he said. Leading Brexiteer Andrew Bridgen said the demands Mr Barnier was making were “untenable”. “No country would be expected to abide by so-called level playing field rules now and in the future or to commit to allowing unfettered access to their fishing waters in perpetuity. “No independent sovereign nations could agreed to these demands.”
Boris Johnson and EU leaders such as Angela Merkel are at a crossroads


thedailyexpress--2020-05-31--Oh dear, Brussels! EU exposed for bullying as Brexit talks won't meet their demands

Sir Iain Duncan Smith said the European Union is having to catch up with the UK after the December general election gained Boris Johnson a huge majority in Parliament .
The former Conservative leader noted that Brussels ca n't bully the UK anymore into adopting EU policies in the Brexit negotiations .
It comes as UK-EU negotiations have stalled as the bloc wants access to UK fishing waters in a trade agreement .
Speaking to Brexit-Watch , Sir Iain said : `` I think everything changed in December when we held the election .
I think the EU is playing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it .
`` We are in a much stronger position than we were before , we do n't look over our shoulders any longer as a Government .
`` We do n't have to worry about Parliament .
`` Essentially the Government can get through whatever it needs to get through in regards to Europe .
READ MORE : Boris to tell EU he wo n't return next year for new Brexit trade talks '' That has cut out one of the levers Mr Banier used very carefully with those who were opposed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do anything to hamstring our departure .
`` They 've now left the pitch , they 're no longer of any great concern , that means when the Government decides it wants to do something that it can get it done internally .
`` Now the EU has to figure out how to deal with a country that has a significant majority in its Government and can actually get stuff through .
`` You ca n't bully them any longer and I do n't think they 've quite come to terms with that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ negotiator has told Boris Johnson to stick to his promises as he warned there would not be a trade deal otherwise .
Michel Barnier appeared to play hard ball with the Prime Minister ahead of a fourth round of trade talks this week as he insisted the prospect of a no-deal end to the transition period this year would be compounded by the impact of the Covid-19 crisis .
Mr Barnier told The Sunday Times there would not be an `` agreement at any cost '' .
With talks on future trading arrangements @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Britain has only until July 1 to seek an extension to the transition period .
Deluded !
Barnier boasts no deal Brexit would harm Britain more than EU [ INSIGHT ] Remainers joined vile demonstration outside Dominic Cummings ’ home [ ANALYSIS ] Barnier issues Brexit ultimatum as he demands UK back down [ VIDEO ]

Brexit: Iain Duncan Smith says EU can’t ‘bully’ UK any longer
Sir Iain Duncan Smith said the European Union is having to catch up with the UK after the December general election gained Boris Johnson a huge majority in Parliament. The former Conservative leader noted that Brussels can't bully the UK anymore into adopting EU policies in the Brexit negotiations. It comes as UK-EU negotiations have stalled as the bloc wants access to UK fishing waters in a trade agreement.
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Speaking to Brexit-Watch, Sir Iain said: "I think everything changed in December when we held the election. I think the EU is playing catch up on that without really realising it. "We are in a much stronger position than we were before, we don't look over our shoulders any longer as a Government. "We don't have to worry about Parliament. "Essentially the Government can get through whatever it needs to get through in regards to Europe. READ MORE: Boris to tell EU he won't return next year for new Brexit trade talks
Brussels has been warned against trying to bully the UK in Brexit negotiations
Sir Iain said the European Union is having to catch up with the UK
"That has cut out one of the levers Mr Banier used very carefully with those who were opposed to leaving and therefore those keen to do anything to hamstring our departure. "They've now left the pitch, they're no longer of any great concern, that means when the Government decides it wants to do something that it can get it done internally. "Now the EU has to figure out how to deal with a country that has a significant majority in its Government and can actually get stuff through. "You can't bully them any longer and I don't think they've quite come to terms with that."
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UK-EU negotiations have stalled as the bloc wants access to UK fishing waters
Brexit: UK fishing policy could be ‘devastating’ to EU says MEP
The EU's chief Brexit negotiator has told Boris Johnson to stick to his promises as he warned there would not be a trade deal otherwise. Michel Barnier appeared to play hard ball with the Prime Minister ahead of a fourth round of trade talks this week as he insisted the prospect of a no-deal end to the transition period this year would be compounded by the impact of the Covid-19 crisis. Mr Barnier told The Sunday Times there would not be an "agreement at any cost". With talks on future trading arrangements seemingly in deadlock over issues like fisheries, Britain has only until July 1 to seek an extension to the transition period. DON'T MISS Deluded! Barnier boasts no deal Brexit would harm Britain more than EU [INSIGHT]
Remainers joined vile demonstration outside Dominic Cummings’ home [ANALYSIS]
Barnier issues Brexit ultimatum as he demands UK back down [VIDEO]
EU-UK fishing waters


thedailyexpress--2020-05-31--Esther McVey: How hairdressers and beauty salons are stocking up on PPE for big opening

The latest Blue Collar Conservative podcast by former cabinet minister and GMTV host Esther McVey has revealed that during lockdown beauty products have still outsold medical ones despite the coronavirus pandemic .
In her interviews Ms McVey has also lifted a lid on how hairdressers and beauty salons have been networking around the world and stocking up on protective equipment to be ready to open in the next few weeks as lockdown is easing .
Ms McVey said : `` Coronavirus has forced significant changes on the beauty sector too .
Seen as a resilient industry , worth £500 billion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wide , as department stores and shops closed , sales were forced online requiring tech solutions for makeup testing to be rapidly improved , and now as lockdown lifts , the beauty service industry has to adapt to the new social distancing rules & increased standards of hygiene to support customers and staff . ''
Speaking to Ms McVey , Dominic McGregor , a consumer behaviour tracking expert and co-founder of Social Chain , revealed that 40 percent of 18 to 35 year olds have been buying beauty products during lockdown .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beauty came second , ahead of medical products .
People still see beauty as more important than medical products .
It ’ s remarkably high.
” He went on : “ There ’ s something about not having your camera on in a video call people , start to question what is going on .
“ The nature of sitting at home seeing themselves on Zoom call screens all the time has made people more conscious about how they look .
“ It seems that people want to look good more than ever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and we all want to make sure we look good , predominantly on a screen every single day.
” He also suggested that Britain is in better shape than during the banking crisis in 2008 .
He said : “ We are seeing higher consumer sentiment than at any point in 2008 and 2009.
” Meanwhile , Ann-Marie Baker , who runs Toni and Guy hair salon in Knutsford in Ms McVey ’ s constituency in Cheshire , said that customers are desperate to come back to get their hair cut after two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that “ lockdown hair has passed the weather as the new favourite topic of conversation for people in Britain ” because of having to cut their own hair at home .
Ms Baker said : “ Everybody is missing us so much .
People can ’ t wait to be back .
She revealed how she has received tips on returning to work from branhhes of Toni and Guy around the world .
She said : “ It has been great for us because we have all been able to speak to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to open .
France is open , Paris has been fully booked for weeks .
The Belgian ones , Australian and Chinese ones are open so we have had meetings with all of them .
They have seen an absolutely phenomenal response .
“ The Chinese owner ’ s main advice to us was get ready you are going to be really busy .
He said they were absolutely packed out.
” Toni and Guy in the UK will follow some of China ’ s lead on salons such as protective covers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get to work or wearing gloves while cutting hair as well as doing deep cleans .
Most stylists will wear masks but some may wear face shields to allow easier conversation with clients .
She said : “ The [ Chinese ] government inspects their salon every night .
They get a certificate of health for the next day .
“ In this country we will be clean and ready for the next day .
Our head office might have mystery shoppers going around .
I don ’ t think they would need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the gold standard hygiene .
But we will have local councils coming in to check .
“ The Chinese have been using disposable PPE .
Salonists are not used to cutting hair with gloves on so it is going to be a challenge for them .
But they have been cutting hair with gloves on , using the masks and doing virtual consultations .
That ’ s where we have got the ideas from .
She warned that the wait to return to salon means there could be long waiting lists while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ colour will be offered although customers can have Zoom conference calls to discuss how to use products sent to their homes .
“ If we can only use half the chairs , we can only see half the clients but there is this big massive backlog of clients so I suppose the question will be will they wait for us ?
Or will they go somewhere else if we can ’ t fit them in ?
“ We work on a Sunday anyway but we are extending our hours .

This Morning: Matt Hancock discusses reopening of hairdressers
The latest Blue Collar Conservative podcast by former cabinet minister and GMTV host Esther McVey has revealed that during lockdown beauty products have still outsold medical ones despite the coronavirus pandemic. In her interviews Ms McVey has also lifted a lid on how hairdressers and beauty salons have been networking around the world and stocking up on protective equipment to be ready to open in the next few weeks as lockdown is easing.
Ms McVey said: "Coronavirus has forced significant changes on the beauty sector too. Seen as a resilient industry, worth £500 billion globally and employing millions of people world wide, as department stores and shops closed, sales were forced online requiring tech solutions for makeup testing to be rapidly improved, and now as lockdown lifts, the beauty service industry has to adapt to the new social distancing rules & increased standards of hygiene to support customers and staff."
Speaking to Ms McVey, Dominic McGregor, a consumer behaviour tracking expert and co-founder of Social Chain, revealed that 40 percent of 18 to 35 year olds have been buying beauty products during lockdown. He said: “In lockdown clothes and beauty came second, ahead of medical products. People still see beauty as more important than medical products. It’s remarkably high.” He went on: “There’s something about not having your camera on in a video call people, start to question what is going on.
Esther McVey has revealed that during lockdown beauty products have still outsold medical ones
Ms McVey has also lifted a lid on how hairdressers and beauty salons have been networking around the world
“The nature of sitting at home seeing themselves on Zoom call screens all the time has made people more conscious about how they look. “It seems that people want to look good more than ever. Fashion and beauty is a constant and we all want to make sure we look good, predominantly on a screen every single day.” He also suggested that Britain is in better shape than during the banking crisis in 2008. He said: “We are seeing higher consumer sentiment than at any point in 2008 and 2009.” Meanwhile, Ann-Marie Baker, who runs Toni and Guy hair salon in Knutsford in Ms McVey’s constituency in Cheshire, said that customers are desperate to come back to get their hair cut after two months of lockdown. Ms McVey said that “lockdown hair has passed the weather as the new favourite topic of conversation for people in Britain” because of having to cut their own hair at home.
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Ms Baker said: “Everybody is missing us so much. People can’t wait to be back. She revealed how she has received tips on returning to work from branhhes of Toni and Guy around the world. She said: “It has been great for us because we have all been able to speak to the Toni and Guys that have already been able to open. France is open, Paris has been fully booked for weeks. The Belgian ones, Australian and Chinese ones are open so we have had meetings with all of them. They have seen an absolutely phenomenal response. “The Chinese owner’s main advice to us was get ready you are going to be really busy. He said they were absolutely packed out.” Toni and Guy in the UK will follow some of China’s lead on salons such as protective covers on shoes and changing clothes when they get to work or wearing gloves while cutting hair as well as doing deep cleans. Most stylists will wear masks but some may wear face shields to allow easier conversation with clients. She said: “The [Chinese] government inspects their salon every night. They get a certificate of health for the next day.
Toni and Guy in the UK will follow some of China’s lead on salons such as protective covers on shoes
“In this country we will be clean and ready for the next day. Our head office might have mystery shoppers going around. I don’t think they would need to because salmon owners have all committed to the gold standard hygiene. But we will have local councils coming in to check. “The Chinese have been using disposable PPE. Salonists are not used to cutting hair with gloves on so it is going to be a challenge for them. But they have been cutting hair with gloves on, using the masks and doing virtual consultations. That’s where we have got the ideas from. She warned that the wait to return to salon means there could be long waiting lists while initially only core services of cut and colour will be offered although customers can have Zoom conference calls to discuss how to use products sent to their homes. “If we can only use half the chairs, we can only see half the clients but there is this big massive backlog of clients so I suppose the question will be will they wait for us? Or will they go somewhere else if we can’t fit them in? “We work on a Sunday anyway but we are extending our hours.
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thedailyexpress--2020-06-01--Sadiq Khan demands Brexit extension for London in angry letter to Michael Gove

The pro-Remain London Mayor insisted the “ last thing ” Britain needs is “ more chaos and uncertainty ” during the coronavirus crisis .
Mr Khan ’ s letter to the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster comes as the fourth round of trade talks between the UK and the EU start on Tuesday .
The London Mayor said : “ No one anticipated when voting for Brexit that the key negotiations would take place at a time when all governments are rightly focused on fighting a global pandemic .
“ The last thing the country needs as it tries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ devastation wreaked by coronavirus is more chaos and uncertainty .
“ I urge the Government to put political ideology aside and pursue the pragmatic route of seeking an extension to the negotiations so that we and our European partners can focus on recovery from Covid-19.
” Mr Khan said coronavirus is the “ biggest health , social and economic emergency ” since the Second World War .
He continued : “ Further disruption , in the form of tariffs , red tape and new immigration rules when we leave the single market and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year , would be needless and hazardous .
“ Close regulatory alignment with the EU has never been more vital to protect our economy and support its recovery from the impacts of Covid-19.
” The London Mayor added that an extension to the December 31 2020 deadline is “ urgently needed ” .
READ MORE : Brexit talks on brink of COLLAPSE : Furious Frost blasts Barnier He said : “ The Government ’ s negotiations with the EU and other countries are highly unlikely to progress towards meaningful results and agreements while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the transition period is now urgently needed to give businesses and public services some certainty that they won ’ t face another cliff edge in six months ’ time .
“ Otherwise the Government risks undermining the unprecedented steps it has taken to protect jobs and livelihoods , by prolonging uncertainty about our economy and the terms on which future trade will be conducted.
” DO N'T MISS Britons furious after Michel Barnier issues latest threat [ INSIGHT ] Farage exposes Brussels plot to drag UK into economic crisis [ VIDEO ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weak ’ EU more than UK [ ANALYSIS ] Britain is in a transition period with Brussels until the end of the year as the two sides negotiate a free trade deal .
During the period the UK follows the EU ’ s rules but has no say .
Trade talks have been continuing remotely during the coronavirus pandemic but little progress was made in the third round of negotiations .
Key sticking points include fishing arrangements and the bloc ’ s demand for a level playing field on standards .
The EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said that the EU is “ open ” to a two-year extension .
In a letter to the Westminster leaders of the SNP , Liberal Democrats , Plaid Cymru , SDLP , Green Party and Alliance Party , Mr Barnier said the option is available if the UK wants it .
The group had written to the EU ’ s chief negotiator on May 15 demanding an extension to the transition period .
In his letter last Wednesday , Mr Barnier said : `` Such an extension of up to one or two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two parties .

Brexit: Sadiq Khan on 'bringing country back' to European Union
The pro-Remain London Mayor insisted the “last thing” Britain needs is “more chaos and uncertainty” during the coronavirus crisis. Mr Khan’s letter to the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster comes as the fourth round of trade talks between the UK and the EU start on Tuesday.
The London Mayor said: “No one anticipated when voting for Brexit that the key negotiations would take place at a time when all governments are rightly focused on fighting a global pandemic. “The last thing the country needs as it tries to find a way back from the devastation wreaked by coronavirus is more chaos and uncertainty. “I urge the Government to put political ideology aside and pursue the pragmatic route of seeking an extension to the negotiations so that we and our European partners can focus on recovery from Covid-19.” Mr Khan said coronavirus is the “biggest health, social and economic emergency” since the Second World War.
Sadiq Khan has sent a letter to Michael Gove demanding an extension to the Brexit transition period
The pro-Remain London Mayor insisted the “last thing” Britain needs is “more chaos and uncertainty” during the coronavirus crisis
He continued: “Further disruption, in the form of tariffs, red tape and new immigration rules when we leave the single market and customs union at the end of the year, would be needless and hazardous. “Close regulatory alignment with the EU has never been more vital to protect our economy and support its recovery from the impacts of Covid-19.” The London Mayor added that an extension to the December 31 2020 deadline is “urgently needed”. READ MORE: Brexit talks on brink of COLLAPSE: Furious Frost blasts Barnier
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Britain is in a transition period with Brussels until the end of the year as the two sides negotiate a free trade deal
He said: “The Government’s negotiations with the EU and other countries are highly unlikely to progress towards meaningful results and agreements while the pandemic continues. “An extension to the transition period is now urgently needed to give businesses and public services some certainty that they won’t face another cliff edge in six months’ time. “Otherwise the Government risks undermining the unprecedented steps it has taken to protect jobs and livelihoods, by prolonging uncertainty about our economy and the terms on which future trade will be conducted.” DON'T MISS
Britons furious after Michel Barnier issues latest threat [INSIGHT]
Farage exposes Brussels plot to drag UK into economic crisis [VIDEO]
No deal Brexit will hurt ‘very weak’ EU more than UK [ANALYSIS]
Trade talks have been continuing remotely during the coronavirus pandemic but little progress was made in the third round of negotiations
Britain is in a transition period with Brussels until the end of the year as the two sides negotiate a free trade deal. During the period the UK follows the EU’s rules but has no say. Trade talks have been continuing remotely during the coronavirus pandemic but little progress was made in the third round of negotiations. Key sticking points include fishing arrangements and the bloc’s demand for a level playing field on standards.
Boris Johnson’s Europe adviser David Frost has ruled out pushing back the deadline
The EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier has said that the EU is “open” to a two-year extension. In a letter to the Westminster leaders of the SNP, Liberal Democrats, Plaid Cymru, SDLP, Green Party and Alliance Party, Mr Barnier said the option is available if the UK wants it. The group had written to the EU’s chief negotiator on May 15 demanding an extension to the transition period. In his letter last Wednesday, Mr Barnier said: "Such an extension of up to one or two years can be agreed jointly by the two parties.
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thedailyexpress--2020-06-01--'Disaster' Corbyn was handed path to Number 10 but decided to freeze out only Scottish MP

Ian Murray said that he was frozen out by Mr Corbyn during his five-year leadership despite being the longest-serving Scottish Labour MP after being elected in 2010 .
Mr Murray , who is currently the only Labour MP in Scotland recently returned to the frontbench after Sir Keir Starmer was elected party leader .
Speaking to The Herald Scotland , the Shadow Scottish Secretary said that Labour ’ s revival in Scotland was crucial for it to return to Downing Street in 2024 .
He suggested the party would need to win 20 Scottish seats to put Sir Keir in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ biggest ever landslide to end 14 years in opposition .
It comes after the Labour Party suffered the worst General Election result since 1935 , losing 60 seats , including six in Scotland in last December ’ s election .
He said : “ After 2017 when we returned seven Scottish MPs , I said very clearly to Jeremy Corbyn there was a pathway to Downing St if he chose to take it and if he decided not to , then the public would ultimately have the final say on his leadership of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t be something he would find particularly pleasing .
“ Scotland is critically important because until you start winning seats back in Scotland , you can ’ t win.
” Mr Murray pointed out that if Labour returned only a single Scottish MP again in 2024 , it would need a record 13 percent swing to gain the necessary extra seats in the House of Commons required for a majority .
However , the party would require a lower swing of between 10 and 11 percent to win if Labour gained at least @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Edinburgh South MP said a double-digit number of Scottish seats was vital for the party to stand any chance of regaining power .
READ MORE : 'Labour 's 'Red Wall ' voted for Brexit - now let 's repay the trust' Labour secured 56 of the 72 Scottish seats in the 1997 election when Tony Blair won by a landslide , compared to its single seat now .
Mr Murray also took a swipe at the SNP and said that Labour had to layout its prospectus for a “ devolution revolution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” set out by the Nationalists to take Scotland out of the UK under IndyRef2 .
It comes after a recent poll showed that more than half of Scots want a second independence referendum in the next five years .
The Ipsos MORI survey for BBC Scotland found that 63 percent of people want another referendum , 34 percent within the next two years , 19 % in two to five years , and 10 % after the next five years .
Going forward , the MP said that Labour 's stance going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ No to independence and No to a second independence referendum.
” He pointed out that the SNP ’ s demand for a mandate to demand a second referendum if it won an overall majority in next year ’ s Holyrood election was “ ridiculous ” .
He argued : “ The mandate for Keir Starmer if he becomes PM in 2024 , would be to deliver on the manifesto commitment of the radical federalism he wants to try and achieve.
” The scheme of radical federalism would involve taking powers from Holyrood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scotland .

Question Time: Ian Murray clashes with panel after criticising SNP
Ian Murray said that he was frozen out by Mr Corbyn during his five-year leadership despite being the longest-serving Scottish Labour MP after being elected in 2010. Mr Murray, who is currently the only Labour MP in Scotland recently returned to the frontbench after Sir Keir Starmer was elected party leader.
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Speaking to The Herald Scotland, the Shadow Scottish Secretary said that Labour’s revival in Scotland was crucial for it to return to Downing Street in 2024. He suggested the party would need to win 20 Scottish seats to put Sir Keir in Downing Street as well as needing the biggest ever landslide to end 14 years in opposition. It comes after the Labour Party suffered the worst General Election result since 1935, losing 60 seats, including six in Scotland in last December’s election. He said: “After 2017 when we returned seven Scottish MPs, I said very clearly to Jeremy Corbyn there was a pathway to Downing St if he chose to take it and if he decided not to, then the public would ultimately have the final say on his leadership of the Labour Party and it wouldn’t be something he would find particularly pleasing.
Labour MP Ian Murray said that Corbyn was shocking for Labour.
Labour suffered it's worst election result since 1935 last year.
“Scotland is critically important because until you start winning seats back in Scotland, you can’t win.” Mr Murray pointed out that if Labour returned only a single Scottish MP again in 2024, it would need a record 13 percent swing to gain the necessary extra seats in the House of Commons required for a majority. However, the party would require a lower swing of between 10 and 11 percent to win if Labour gained at least 16 Scottish seats, the MP stressed. The Edinburgh South MP said a double-digit number of Scottish seats was vital for the party to stand any chance of regaining power. READ MORE: 'Labour's 'Red Wall' voted for Brexit - now let's repay the trust'
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Sir Keir Starmer is hoping to win 2024's general election.
Ian Murray also took a swipe at the SNP.
Labour secured 56 of the 72 Scottish seats in the 1997 election when Tony Blair won by a landslide, compared to its single seat now. Mr Murray also took a swipe at the SNP and said that Labour had to layout its prospectus for a “devolution revolution” to defeat the “extreme proposition” set out by the Nationalists to take Scotland out of the UK under IndyRef2. It comes after a recent poll showed that more than half of Scots want a second independence referendum in the next five years. The Ipsos MORI survey for BBC Scotland found that 63 percent of people want another referendum, 34 percent within the next two years, 19% in two to five years, and 10% after the next five years.
Ian Murray at the 2019 Edinburgh general election count.
Going forward, the MP said that Labour's stance going into the 2024 election was clear: “No to independence and No to a second independence referendum.” He pointed out that the SNP’s demand for a mandate to demand a second referendum if it won an overall majority in next year’s Holyrood election was “ridiculous”. He argued: “The mandate for Keir Starmer if he becomes PM in 2024, would be to deliver on the manifesto commitment of the radical federalism he wants to try and achieve.” The scheme of radical federalism would involve taking powers from Holyrood and giving them to local communities in Scotland.
Mr Murray was also critical of Boris Johnson.


thedailyexpress--2020-06-01--Nicola Sturgeon shamed: Scottish leader faces backlash for coronavirus care home crisis

Bosses have accused ministers of presiding over `` three months of mixed messages , mismanagement and missed opportunities '' .
Tony Banks , chairman and founder of the Balhousie Care Group which runs homes across Scotland , said homes `` may as well just have crossed our fingers '' when hospital patients were being discharged from hospitals to their care without testing for coronavirus .
Mr Banks claimed testing in care settings has been `` promised '' but stressed that it had `` simply not been delivered '' .
Mr Banks , whose company operates 26 care homes with some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had made meant hundreds of elderly people in homes had died `` before their time '' .
He said : `` The strategy from the Scottish Government was clear from the start : to protect the NHS .
`` And it was successful .
But at the expense of this , hundreds of care home residents have passed away before their time .
`` And as we navigate this unholy mess there are police investigations into Covid-19-related deaths , procurator fiscal referrals , and an announcement from the Scottish Government that 'failing ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ authority control .
“ I know I 'm not alone in saying that private care home operators feel betrayed . ''
Mr Banks claimed Scotland had seen `` three months of mixed messages , mismanagement and missed opportunities by the Scottish Government '' during the pandemic , adding that in Scotland `` the rate of Covid-19-related care home deaths is one of the highest in Europe '' .
Scottish Government figures revealed more than 900 elderly patients were discharged from hospital into care homes in March .
This was before a requirement for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ introduced .
At the time , no risk assessments were carried out before patients were sent to care homes , with Mr Banks saying : `` We may as well just have crossed our fingers . ''
He added : `` We asked for the patients to be tested for Covid-19 before we took them and were told no .
`` In at least one of our care homes we can directly attribute the first positive cases of Covid-19 to a new admission from hospital . ''
DO N'T MISS : Britons fury @ @ @ @ @ @ @ again [ OPINION ] UK coronavirus testing chief admits no plans to test care homes weekly [ REVEAL ] Davidson erupts at Sturgeon as she uncovers horror death tally [ REVEAL ] On the issue of testing he said this `` was promised but has simply not been delivered '' .
Mr Banks claimed : `` It was 62 days between March 1 - the date of the first positive test in Scotland - and May 1 when the Scottish Government promised sample testing in homes without the virus , and testing of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases . ''
He stressed it was now `` crucial '' that there was `` enough testing '' for staff and residents in homes , and that this should be carried out continually , not just on a one-off basis .
But First Minister Nicola Sturgeon defended the decision to transfer elderly patients to care homes .
She also insisted the Scottish Government had `` sought to take the best decisions we could based on the knowledge and information we had at the time '' .
Speaking on the Sophy Ridge on Sunday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ First Minister said : `` The older people that were in hospital , the so-called delayed discharges , they did n't need to be in hospital , they had no medical need to be in hospital , we were expecting , and in some cases saw , an influx of coronavirus patients into our hospitals .
`` It would have been unthinkable simply to leave older patients where they were in hospital , that would also have put them at serious and significant risk .
`` What we did was put in place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people being discharged from hospitals and gave guidance to care home providers about the isolation and infection prevention and control procedures they should have been following . ''

Sturgeon suggests England is ‘under-reporting’ care home deaths
Bosses have accused ministers of presiding over "three months of mixed messages, mismanagement and missed opportunities". Tony Banks, chairman and founder of the Balhousie Care Group which runs homes across Scotland, said homes "may as well just have crossed our fingers" when hospital patients were being discharged from hospitals to their care without testing for coronavirus.
Trending
Mr Banks claimed testing in care settings has been "promised" but stressed that it had "simply not been delivered". Mr Banks, whose company operates 26 care homes with some 940 residents, said the decisions ministers had made meant hundreds of elderly people in homes had died "before their time". He said: "The strategy from the Scottish Government was clear from the start: to protect the NHS. "And it was successful. But at the expense of this, hundreds of care home residents have passed away before their time.
Nicola Sturgeon has come under fire from critics.
The Scottish government is facing a backlash from critics.
"And as we navigate this unholy mess there are police investigations into Covid-19-related deaths, procurator fiscal referrals, and an announcement from the Scottish Government that 'failing' care homes face being taken under local authority control. “I know I'm not alone in saying that private care home operators feel betrayed." Mr Banks claimed Scotland had seen "three months of mixed messages, mismanagement and missed opportunities by the Scottish Government" during the pandemic, adding that in Scotland "the rate of Covid-19-related care home deaths is one of the highest in Europe". Scottish Government figures revealed more than 900 elderly patients were discharged from hospital into care homes in March. READ MORE: London care home death's terrifying surge laid bare - one-in-20 die
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Nicola Sturgeon has been blasted over the Scottish government's record of care homes.
This was before a requirement for them to be tested for COVID-19 was introduced. At the time, no risk assessments were carried out before patients were sent to care homes, with Mr Banks saying: "We may as well just have crossed our fingers." He added: "We asked for the patients to be tested for Covid-19 before we took them and were told no. "In at least one of our care homes we can directly attribute the first positive cases of Covid-19 to a new admission from hospital." DON'T MISS:
Britons fury at Nicola Sturgeon as she blames Westminster again [OPINION]
UK coronavirus testing chief admits no plans to test care homes weekly [REVEAL]
Davidson erupts at Sturgeon as she uncovers horror death tally [REVEAL]
Tony Banks (left) with Richard Branson.
On the issue of testing he said this "was promised but has simply not been delivered". Mr Banks claimed: "It was 62 days between March 1 - the date of the first positive test in Scotland - and May 1 when the Scottish Government promised sample testing in homes without the virus, and testing of all residents and staff where there were cases." He stressed it was now "crucial" that there was "enough testing" for staff and residents in homes, and that this should be carried out continually, not just on a one-off basis. But First Minister Nicola Sturgeon defended the decision to transfer elderly patients to care homes.
Strict care regimes are now in place across British care homes.


thedailyexpress--2020-06-01--Oh dear, Brussels! EU exposed for bullying as Brexit talks won't meet their demands


thedailyexpress--2020-06-01--‘EU is DESPERATE!’ Brexiteers mock 'bully' Barnier's threats and urge Boris to stand firm

EU negotiator Michel Barnier claimed the UK is not sticking to its negotiating commitments and slammed the country ’ s vote to leave .
But government sources said the Prime Minister would not back down in the face of the EU “ bully boy tactics ” and insisted the bloc needs to “ evolve ” its position .
Brussels was also accused of breaking its Brexit promises over fishing rights .
Negotiations face collapse unless the EU makes compromises , it was warned .
Brexiteers dismissed the bloc ’ s sabre-rattling as a sign of desperation .
Former Brexit minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asking for the same type of deal as the EU has struck with Canada and Japan .
“ The problem is the EU is having difficulty in coming to terms with the fact the UK is no longer part of the European Union .
“ It ’ s behaving like an amputee with phantom limb syndrome.
” Sir Iain Duncan Smith said : “ This is a sign of real desperation by the EU .
They are clearly panicking that the UK means what is says and has the capacity to do it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they can to force the UK ’ s hand but it won ’ t work.
” Mark Francois , chairman of the European Research Group of Brexiteer Tories , said : “ Barnier the bluffer is at it again .
“ The modus operandi of this man , as we learnt from the negotiations last autumn of Boris ’ s revised withdrawal agreement , is to talk tough as a prelude to giving in .
“ Those in Brussels have finally realised that we have left the EU and we now intend to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MORE : Deluded !
Barnier boasts no deal Brexit would harm Britain more than EU “ Providing we hold our nerve , I have every confidence that the EU will finally agree to a deal , knowing full well that we will leave under Australian type terms if they do not .
Conservative Andrew Bridgen said : “ There is no way that Boris will give in to the EU bullies .
“ He didn ’ t do that when we were a minority Government before the general election , why would he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK has taken “ two steps back , three steps back ” from its original negotiating commitments .
And he said the UK ’ s decision to quit the bloc , saying it was a `` lose-lose '' for both sides .
But a source close to the negotiations said it is Brussels that is moving away from its original commitments in the talks .
DO N'T MISS Farage exposes Brussels plot to drag UK into economic crisis [ INSIGHT ] Boris to tell EU he wo n't return next year for new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ call for Brexit Britannia to set sail in ploy to strengthen trade [ ANALYSIS ] They said the block was continuing push for an overarching deal on future relations that includes an agreement on fishing rights , despite signing up to negotiating terms that clearly set out that a separate agreement on fish should be in force in July .
“ They clearly need to reconsider their position to avoid backsliding on the agreement made last autumn , and stop making demands incompatible with our future status as an independent coastal state , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ round of talks will set the scene for a crucial video conference between the Prime Minister and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen next month to take stock of progress made so far .
Relations between the UK and EU have become increasingly strained during the talks , particularly over fishing rights and so-called level-playing field demands that would keep Britain tied to Brussels rules .
Mr Johnson is said to be ready to walk away from negotiations in September if the EU continues to drag its feet .
Britain has until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the transition period , which keeps existing rules in place until the end of the year .
The EU has repeatedly offered to extend the talks but UK negotiator David Frost insists the deadline will not be shifted because the country needs “ political and economic freedom ” and does not want to pay `` significant '' amounts into EU coffers .
It is believed that talks would be unlikely to be resumed in the same form once the transition period has ended .
Senior government sources insisted the UK is “ driving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ either not ready or not willing to inject momentum ” .
They called for some “ political reality ” in Brussels and warned negotiators can not “ use their usual tactic of delay ” to drag the talks into the autumn .
It is understood that during the last round of talks , the EU would not engage with the proposals put forward by the British team and continued to stick to their own unnegotiable positions .
But the UK believes that its clear and firm position has sounded alarm bells for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ failing to make progress soon .
The government has made it clear it will not cave in to demands for fishing rights for European vessels to remain the same as they are now .
Brussels also wants a so-called level playing field , a set of common rules and standards , that the UK would have to abide by , which has caused major tensions .
Mr Barnier told a Sunday newspaper there would not be an `` agreement at any cost '' and accused Britain of not keeping its commitments .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back - two steps back , three steps back - from the original commitments , '' the EU 's chief negotiator said .
`` The UK negotiators need to be fully in line with what the Prime Minister signed-up to with us .
`` Because 27 heads of state and government and the European Parliament do not have a short memory . ''
Mr Barnier said the EU 's heads of state remembered `` very clearly the text which we negotiated with Boris Johnson '' .
`` And we just want to see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ... and if that does n't happen there will be no agreement , '' he told the paper .
Mr Barnier insisted UK withdrawal from the EU was a `` lose-lose '' for both sides , saying no-one - not even Nigel Farage - had shown there was any `` added value '' to the UK 's departure .
He said that meant the next natural next step in trade negotiations was `` damage limitation '' , and if no agreement were reached that would result in `` even more consequences '' at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus pandemic .
`` So , I think we have a joint responsibility in this very serious crisis , which affects so many families ... with so many deaths , so many sick people , so many people unemployed ... to do everything we can to reach an agreement and I very much hope that we will do so , '' he said .

Brexit: Iain Duncan Smith says EU can’t ‘bully’ UK any longer
EU negotiator Michel Barnier claimed the UK is not sticking to its negotiating commitments and slammed the country’s vote to leave. But government sources said the Prime Minister would not back down in the face of the EU “bully boy tactics” and insisted the bloc needs to “evolve” its position. Brussels was also accused of breaking its Brexit promises over fishing rights.
Trending
Negotiations face collapse unless the EU makes compromises, it was warned. Brexiteers dismissed the bloc’s sabre-rattling as a sign of desperation. Former Brexit minister David Jones said the UK was only asking for the same type of deal as the EU has struck with Canada and Japan. “The problem is the EU is having difficulty in coming to terms with the fact the UK is no longer part of the European Union. “It’s behaving like an amputee with phantom limb syndrome.”
Brexit row: Boris has been warned not to cave to Barnier
Sir Iain Duncan Smith said: “This is a sign of real desperation by the EU. They are clearly panicking that the UK means what is says and has the capacity to do it. “They are trying any way they can to force the UK’s hand but it won’t work.” Mark Francois, chairman of the European Research Group of Brexiteer Tories, said: “Barnier the bluffer is at it again. “The modus operandi of this man, as we learnt from the negotiations last autumn of Boris’s revised withdrawal agreement, is to talk tough as a prelude to giving in. “Those in Brussels have finally realised that we have left the EU and we now intend to negotiate as a sovereign state. READ MORE: Deluded! Barnier boasts no deal Brexit would harm Britain more than EU
This is a sign of real desperation by the EU. They are clearly panicking. Brexit talks
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“Providing we hold our nerve, I have every confidence that the EU will finally agree to a deal, knowing full well that we will leave under Australian type terms if they do not. “The clock is ticking.” Conservative Andrew Bridgen said: “There is no way that Boris will give in to the EU bullies. “He didn’t do that when we were a minority Government before the general election, why would he now?” Mr Barnier claimed the UK has taken “two steps back, three steps back” from its original negotiating commitments. And he said the UK’s decision to quit the bloc, saying it was a "lose-lose" for both sides. But a source close to the negotiations said it is Brussels that is moving away from its original commitments in the talks. DON'T MISS
Farage exposes Brussels plot to drag UK into economic crisis [INSIGHT]
Boris to tell EU he won't return next year for new Brexit trade talks [REACTION]
MPs call for Brexit Britannia to set sail in ploy to strengthen trade [ANALYSIS]
They said the block was continuing push for an overarching deal on future relations that includes an agreement on fishing rights, despite signing up to negotiating terms that clearly set out that a separate agreement on fish should be in force in July. “They clearly need to reconsider their position to avoid backsliding on the agreement made last autumn, and stop making demands incompatible with our future status as an independent coastal state,” the source said. The latest round of talks will set the scene for a crucial video conference between the Prime Minister and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen next month to take stock of progress made so far. Relations between the UK and EU have become increasingly strained during the talks, particularly over fishing rights and so-called level-playing field demands that would keep Britain tied to Brussels rules. Mr Johnson is said to be ready to walk away from negotiations in September if the EU continues to drag its feet. Britain has until July 1 to decide whether to extend the transition period, which keeps existing rules in place until the end of the year.
Michel Barnier has told Britain they need a Brexit trade deal
Boris Johnson following Brexit talks last year
The EU has repeatedly offered to extend the talks but UK negotiator David Frost insists the deadline will not be shifted because the country needs “political and economic freedom” and does not want to pay "significant" amounts into EU coffers. It is believed that talks would be unlikely to be resumed in the same form once the transition period has ended. Senior government sources insisted the UK is “driving any progress” and the EU is “either not ready or not willing to inject momentum”. They called for some “political reality” in Brussels and warned negotiators cannot “use their usual tactic of delay” to drag the talks into the autumn. It is understood that during the last round of talks, the EU would not engage with the proposals put forward by the British team and continued to stick to their own unnegotiable positions. But the UK believes that its clear and firm position has sounded alarm bells for some EU countries about the risks of failing to make progress soon. The government has made it clear it will not cave in to demands for fishing rights for European vessels to remain the same as they are now. Brussels also wants a so-called level playing field, a set of common rules and standards, that the UK would have to abide by, which has caused major tensions. Mr Barnier told a Sunday newspaper there would not be an "agreement at any cost" and accused Britain of not keeping its commitments. "The UK has been taking a step back - two steps back, three steps back - from the original commitments," the EU's chief negotiator said. "The UK negotiators need to be fully in line with what the Prime Minister signed-up to with us.
EU leaders such as Angela Merkel may need to help Brexit talks


thedailyexpress--2020-06-02--Brexit plot DESTROYED: Remainer plan to delay EU exit dismantled by three simple points

Last week , the European Union 's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier wrote to UK opposition party leaders to say Brussels is open to the idea of an extension to the transition period by up to two years .
But this was immediately slapped down by both Boris Johnson and Mr Barnier 's UK counterpart David Frost , who continue to insist a trade deal is signed before the end of the transition period on December 31 .
A group of Remain ministers , led by Liberal Democrat acting co-leader Sir Ed Davey , are trying to squeeze a Bill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attempt to delay Brexit by up to two years .
The second reading of this Bill is due to take place on June 12 .
But a new report from the Centre for Brexit Policy has destroyed the plot from Remainers to delay the UK 's departure from the EU even further .
The think tank said : `` In spite of this demonstrated will of the people and the UK Government ’ s resolve to exit the transition period on schedule ( as enshrined in law ) , there remains a sustained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to extend the transition period – and delay or even deny Brexit .
`` These Brexit opponents have taken advantage of the current COVID-19 crisis to make two core arguments for extending the transition period .
`` Pressures of responding to the COVID-19 crisis makes it impossible for an EU-UK trade agreement to be reached before 31 December this year , the date on which statutory legislation requires the UK to exit the transition period .
`` If no trade agreement has been concluded with the EU by December of this year , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , can not withstand the shock of such a change to our trading relationship with the EU .
But the Centre for Brexit Policy argued extending the transition period and delaying Brexit for two years would cost £380billion , `` or trillions of pounds if Brexit were lost forever as a result of extension '' .
Secondly , the think tank said extending the transition period beyond December 31 would `` prevent us from taking the radical steps needed to rebuild the post-COVID economy because the UK would continue to be bound by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
The think tank accused Remainers of taking advantage of the current coronavirus crisis to make two arguments for extending the transition period .
These are the pressures of responding to the coronavirus pandemic would make it impossible for the UK and EU to strike a trade deal by December 31 , and if no agreement has been concluded by this time , the UK economy , beset by the impacts of COVID-19 , would not be able to withstand the shock of a change to the trading relationship with Brussels .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit Policy argues leaving the transition period , even without a trade deal in place , is `` critical to recovering from COVID-19 and actually improves the chances of reaching a deal with the EU '' .
The analysis says leaving the transition period on December 31 would `` support the economic recovery from Covid-19 by capitalising on past UK trading success with non-EU countries under World Trade Organisation ( WTO ) rules '' .
`` Allows Free Trade Agreements ( FTAs ) to be implemented that , in turn , support the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' exposed as Redwood reveals Brussels is on alert over Brexit [ VIDEO ] Brexit trade talks latest : Full schedule - Last chance for EU [ ANALYSIS ] EU crumbling : Panic grows over 'second Brexit in Italy ' [ COMMENT ] '' Enhances the UK negotiating position making it more likely to reach a deal with the EU .
`` Provides freedom from EU constraints enabling better regulation that is necessary for revitalising the post-Covid-19 economy . ''
The Centre for Brexit Policy also said delaying the transition period beyond December @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreement with the EU is `` nonsensical '' .
The paper says : `` It is only the lack of EU political will that prevents concluding a trade agreement by the end of the year .
`` In the absence of an EU trade deal , trading under WTO terms with the EU is the most attractive , least costly , and best prepared option . ''
The think tank argues `` unravelling the statute law default position is complex '' , as extending the transition period for two years would cost £380billion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were lost forever as a result of an extension '' .
The Centre for Brexit Policy also pointed towards a recent poll that it commissioned , which shows the British public support the transition period ending on December 31 .
Savanta ComRes interviewed 2,058 UK adults from May 1-3 , which found 44 percent of the electorate are in favour of the current status of the transition period or even an exit before then .
This compares to 40 percent who want the transition period extended to 2020 or beyond .
When asked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to further delays , nearly half ( 46 percent ) agreed , with only 16 percent disagreeing - a margin of three to one .
The Centre of Brexit Policy said this indicated four years after the EU Referendum in which 17.4 million people voted to leave the EU , they want to get Brexit done .
Forty-five percent agreed the UK would be at a greater advantage outside of the EU , with 28 percent opposed to this .
Participants also rejected claims the December 31 deadline and coronavirus-induced interruptions in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people agreed by a margin of 42 percent to 24 percent there is enough time to negotiate with the EU before the end of the transition period .

Brexit: EU are in 'terrible trouble' over extension says Davis
Last week, the European Union's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier wrote to UK opposition party leaders to say Brussels is open to the idea of an extension to the transition period by up to two years. But this was immediately slapped down by both Boris Johnson and Mr Barnier's UK counterpart David Frost, who continue to insist a trade deal is signed before the end of the transition period on December 31. A group of Remain ministers, led by Liberal Democrat acting co-leader Sir Ed Davey, are trying to squeeze a Bill through Parliament in a last-ditch and desperate attempt to delay Brexit by up to two years. The second reading of this Bill is due to take place on June 12.
Trending
But a new report from the Centre for Brexit Policy has destroyed the plot from Remainers to delay the UK's departure from the EU even further. The think tank said: "In spite of this demonstrated will of the people and the UK Government’s resolve to exit the transition period on schedule (as enshrined in law), there remains a sustained campaign to bring pressure on the Government to extend the transition period – and delay or even deny Brexit. "These Brexit opponents have taken advantage of the current COVID-19 crisis to make two core arguments for extending the transition period. "Pressures of responding to the COVID-19 crisis makes it impossible for an EU-UK trade agreement to be reached before 31 December this year, the date on which statutory legislation requires the UK to exit the transition period.
Brexit news: A desperate attempt to extend the transition period has been destroyed
Brexit news: Boris Johnson has insisted he wants a trade deal signed with the EU by December 31
"If no trade agreement has been concluded with the EU by December of this year, the UK economy, beset by COVID-19, cannot withstand the shock of such a change to our trading relationship with the EU. But the Centre for Brexit Policy argued extending the transition period and delaying Brexit for two years would cost £380billion, "or trillions of pounds if Brexit were lost forever as a result of extension". Secondly, the think tank said extending the transition period beyond December 31 would "prevent us from taking the radical steps needed to rebuild the post-COVID economy because the UK would continue to be bound by EU rules and unable to influence them". The think tank accused Remainers of taking advantage of the current coronavirus crisis to make two arguments for extending the transition period. READ MORE: Coronavirus map LIVE: Extra 445 deaths in England recorded
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Brexit news: Michel Barnier said the EU is open to the idea of extending the transition period
These are the pressures of responding to the coronavirus pandemic would make it impossible for the UK and EU to strike a trade deal by December 31, and if no agreement has been concluded by this time, the UK economy, beset by the impacts of COVID-19, would not be able to withstand the shock of a change to the trading relationship with Brussels. But the paper from the Centre for Brexit Policy argues leaving the transition period, even without a trade deal in place, is "critical to recovering from COVID-19 and actually improves the chances of reaching a deal with the EU". The analysis says leaving the transition period on December 31 would "support the economic recovery from Covid-19 by capitalising on past UK trading success with non-EU countries under World Trade Organisation (WTO) rules". "Allows Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to be implemented that, in turn, support the recovery. DON'T MISS
EU 'shock' exposed as Redwood reveals Brussels is on alert over Brexit [VIDEO]
Brexit trade talks latest: Full schedule - Last chance for EU [ANALYSIS]
EU crumbling: Panic grows over 'second Brexit in Italy' [COMMENT]
Brexit news: The UK and EU has traded insults since trade talks began in March
Brexit news: David Frost has ruled out extending the transition period beyond December 31
"Enhances the UK negotiating position making it more likely to reach a deal with the EU. "Provides freedom from EU constraints enabling better regulation that is necessary for revitalising the post-Covid-19 economy." The Centre for Brexit Policy also said delaying the transition period beyond December 31 in the hope of reaching an agreement with the EU is "nonsensical". The paper says: "It is only the lack of EU political will that prevents concluding a trade agreement by the end of the year.
Brexit news: The UK has until June 30 to request an extension to the transition period
"In the absence of an EU trade deal, trading under WTO terms with the EU is the most attractive, least costly, and best prepared option." The think tank argues "unravelling the statute law default position is complex", as extending the transition period for two years would cost £380billion, or trillions of pounds if Brexit were lost forever as a result of an extension". The Centre for Brexit Policy also pointed towards a recent poll that it commissioned, which shows the British public support the transition period ending on December 31. Savanta ComRes interviewed 2,058 UK adults from May 1-3, which found 44 percent of the electorate are in favour of the current status of the transition period or even an exit before then. This compares to 40 percent who want the transition period extended to 2020 or beyond.
Brexit news: Remainers, led by Sir Ed Davey, are trying to force a Bill through the UK Parliament


thedailyexpress--2020-06-01--New Remainer campaign to sabotage Brexit starts as Best for Britain issue economic report

The Best for Britain group issued a report which warns the North West and Midlands will be severely exposed to a double economic hit from Brexit and coronavirus if the UK leaves the EU without a deal .
Best for Britain CEO Naomi Smith said : “ This report , which maps the impact of both shocks , definitively rebuts any speculation that the impact of leaving the transition period could be masked by the coronavirus recession .
“ The data is clear : when you scratch beneath the surface , so many key sectors will be exposed to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ When you map these findings onto the UK ’ s geography , it shows that particular areas of Britain , such as the North West and Midlands regions , will be disproportionately harmed . ''
She continued : `` These include many former ‘ red wall ’ seats that switched from Labour to the Conservatives at the last election .
“ With public debt spiralling , the Government is boxing itself into a fiscal corner unless it extends the transition period and secures a trade deal at the end of the ongoing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Social Market Foundation think-tank , commissioned by Best for Britain , was released as EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier warned Boris Johnson to stick to his promises or risk a no deal Brexit .
Mr Barnier said there would not be an `` agreement at any cost '' .
With talks on future trading arrangements seemingly in deadlock over issues like fisheries , Britain has only until July 1 to seek an extension to the transition period .
Mr Johnson has repeatedly insisted the UK will end the transition arrangement on schedule @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But Mr Barnier has accused Britain of not keeping to its commitments .
He said : `` The UK has been taking a step back - two steps back , three steps back - from the original commitments .
`` The UK negotiators need to be fully in line with what the Prime Minister signed-up to with us .
`` Because 27 heads of state and government and the European Parliament do not have a short memory . ''
Mr Barnier said the EU 's heads of state remembered `` very clearly the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
He said : `` And we just want to see that complied with .
To the letter ... and if that does n't happen there will be no agreement . ''
Mr Barnier insisted UK withdrawal from the EU was a `` lose-lose '' for both sides , saying no-one - not even Nigel Farage - had shown there was any `` added value '' to the UK 's departure .
DO N'T MISS 'We need to leave EU SOON ' Martin Lewis in urgent Brexit plea [ OPINION ] BBC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as EU trade talks on brink [ ANALYSIS ] EU exposed for bullying as Brexit talks wo n't meet their demands [ SPOTLIGHT ]

Brexit: UK 'living a lie' while in the EU says John Redwood
The Best for Britain group issued a report which warns the North West and Midlands will be severely exposed to a double economic hit from Brexit and coronavirus if the UK leaves the EU without a deal.
So many key sectors will be exposed to a dangerous double whammy of economic hits Naomi Smith
Best for Britain CEO Naomi Smith said: “This report, which maps the impact of both shocks, definitively rebuts any speculation that the impact of leaving the transition period could be masked by the coronavirus recession. “The data is clear: when you scratch beneath the surface, so many key sectors will be exposed to a dangerous double whammy of economic hits. “When you map these findings onto the UK’s geography, it shows that particular areas of Britain, such as the North West and Midlands regions, will be disproportionately harmed."
Boris Johnson and Michel Barnier
She continued: "These include many former ‘red wall’ seats that switched from Labour to the Conservatives at the last election. “With public debt spiralling, the Government is boxing itself into a fiscal corner unless it extends the transition period and secures a trade deal at the end of the ongoing negotiations.” The report, by the Social Market Foundation think-tank, commissioned by Best for Britain, was released as EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier warned Boris Johnson to stick to his promises or risk a no deal Brexit. Mr Barnier said there would not be an "agreement at any cost". READ MORE: Fisheries countdown: Johnson faces 30 day battle to secure Brexit deal
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Michel Barnier has warned Boris Johnson to keep his promises
Boris Johnson insists Britain is on track to leave the EU at the end of the transition period
With talks on future trading arrangements seemingly in deadlock over issues like fisheries, Britain has only until July 1 to seek an extension to the transition period. Mr Johnson has repeatedly insisted the UK will end the transition arrangement on schedule at the end of the year. But Mr Barnier has accused Britain of not keeping to its commitments.
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He said: "The UK has been taking a step back - two steps back, three steps back - from the original commitments. "The UK negotiators need to be fully in line with what the Prime Minister signed-up to with us. "Because 27 heads of state and government and the European Parliament do not have a short memory." Mr Barnier said the EU's heads of state remembered "very clearly the text which we negotiated with Boris Johnson". He said: "And we just want to see that complied with. To the letter... and if that doesn't happen there will be no agreement." Mr Barnier insisted UK withdrawal from the EU was a "lose-lose" for both sides, saying no-one - not even Nigel Farage - had shown there was any "added value" to the UK's departure. DON'T MISS
'We need to leave EU SOON' Martin Lewis in urgent Brexit plea[OPINION]
BBC's Katya Adler exposes 'real clashes' as EU trade talks on brink[ANALYSIS]
EU exposed for bullying as Brexit talks won't meet their demands[SPOTLIGHT]
Five steps to Brexit


thedailyexpress--2020-06-01--Support for Boris’ Tory Party increases among voters – shock poll

The latest Westminster voting intention survey by YouGov found support for the Conservatives increased to 45 percent , up one percent since the last poll on May 25-26 .
Labour under new leader Keir Starmer polled 35 percent , down three points .
Liberal Democrats remained the same on 6 percent .
The Green party went up by one point to take 5 percent of the share .
The Brexit Party also stayed the same at two percent .
The results suggest the fallout over the Dominic Cummings affair may now have plateaued .
READ MORE : Sir Keir Starmer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Although , in the week leading up to May 26 the Conservatives saw their lead over Labour fall from 15 points to just 6 points .
But in this voting intention survey , conducted on May 29-30 , the Conservative lead has now jumped to 10 points .
However , the Labour leader appears to have won some fans with Sir Keir Starmer edging closer to claiming the keys to No 10 one day compared with the last YouGov survey .
Now one in three who voted say he could be a better @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
DO N'T MISS : Labour backlash : Jon Ashworth accused of 'political point-scoring ' [ VIDEO ] Coronavirus map LIVE : Warning for 18 hotspots as peak only STARTING [ LIVE BLOG ] Labour 's Yvette Cooper scolded for going on huge rant [ INSIGHT ] But , a further study done by YouGov highlighted the damage that the Conservative party brand has taken over the last six weeks , due to their handling of the coronavirus crisis .
In mid-April , 37 percent of those polled said that the Tories were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But now , the number who think the Conservatives are out of touch with the nation is twice as high , 48 percent , as the number who think they are in touch , 24 percent .
The confidence the public has in the Conservative party has fallen .
The number of those polled who think that Boris Johnson 's Government is incompetent went up 16 points to 43 percent .

Brexit: Johnson may 'go soft' if Cummings leaves says Farage
The latest Westminster voting intention survey by YouGov found support for the Conservatives increased to 45 percent, up one percent since the last poll on May 25-26. Labour under new leader Keir Starmer polled 35 percent, down three points. Liberal Democrats remained the same on 6 percent.
The Green party went up by one point to take 5 percent of the share. The SNP vote remained at 5 percent. The Brexit Party also stayed the same at two percent. The results suggest the fallout over the Dominic Cummings affair may now have plateaued. READ MORE: Sir Keir Starmer lashes out at Boris in coronavirus attack
Boris Johnson and Keir Starmer
Boris Johnson
Although, in the week leading up to May 26 the Conservatives saw their lead over Labour fall from 15 points to just 6 points. But in this voting intention survey, conducted on May 29-30, the Conservative lead has now jumped to 10 points. However, the Labour leader appears to have won some fans with Sir Keir Starmer edging closer to claiming the keys to No 10 one day compared with the last YouGov survey. Now one in three who voted say he could be a better Prime Minister when compared to Boris Johnson. DON'T MISS:
Labour backlash: Jon Ashworth accused of 'political point-scoring' [VIDEO]
Coronavirus map LIVE: Warning for 18 hotspots as peak only STARTING [LIVE BLOG]
Labour's Yvette Cooper scolded for going on huge rant [INSIGHT]
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Boris Johnson
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thedailyexpress--2020-06-01--Brexit trade talks latest: Full schedule - Last chance for EU as Frost gives ultimatum

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The last round of talks which took place ended with the EU and UK deeply divided regarding the issue of fishing .
Britain ’ s chief Brexit negotiator , David Frost , ruled out giving European boats access to UK waters in return for better conditions for British financial services in the EU ’ s single market .
The formal deadline for extending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but the Government has repeatedly assured that this period will not be extended .
Government sources warned that the European Union needs to “ kick things into gear much faster ” and that dragging their feet over negotiations would leave it “ too late ” to make a deal .
A senior Government source told The Telegraph : “ It is the UK that is driving any progress being made in this negotiation .
The Commission are either not ready or not willing to inject momentum .
“ They need to put some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appreciate that they can not use their usual tactic of delay to drag the talks into Autumn .
“ By then it will be too late , as businesses need to know what to prepare for with as much time as is practicable.
” READ MORE : Brexit : EU 's plans to extend transition period criticised by expert ( 2020-06-01 ) [ VIDEO ]

Brexit: Nathalie Loiseau addresses Frost's 'aggressive letter'
The last round of talks which took place ended with the EU and UK deeply divided regarding the issue of fishing. Britain’s chief Brexit negotiator, David Frost, ruled out giving European boats access to UK waters in return for better conditions for British financial services in the EU’s single market. The formal deadline for extending the transition period is next month, but the Government has repeatedly assured that this period will not be extended.
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Brexit trade talks full schedule Government sources warned that the European Union needs to “kick things into gear much faster” and that dragging their feet over negotiations would leave it “too late” to make a deal. A senior Government source told The Telegraph: “It is the UK that is driving any progress being made in this negotiation. The Commission are either not ready or not willing to inject momentum. “They need to put some political reality into their approach, and appreciate that they cannot use their usual tactic of delay to drag the talks into Autumn. “By then it will be too late, as businesses need to know what to prepare for with as much time as is practicable.” READ MORE: Brexit bombshell: How Merkel 'interfered in general election' [REPORT]
The UK and EU will hold another round of trade talks beginning on June 2
Fishing has been a big point of disagreement between the two parties
READ MORE Brexit warning: EU want to teach Britain a lesson The trade deal talks schedule is as follows: Tuesday, June 2 - 2.30pm-5pm Fisheries
Thematic cooperation
Governance for level playing field for open and fair competition Wednesday, June 3 - 10.30am-1pm Fisheries
Law enforcement cooperation
Horizontal arrangements and governance
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Michel Barnier accused the UK of taking 'steps back' from original commitments
David Frost ruled out giving the EU access to the UK's waters
Thursday, June 4 - 2.30pm-5pm Trade in services and investments, and other issues
Social security
Level playing field for open and fair competition and energy Friday, June 5 - 10.30am-12.30pm Closing plenary session Speaking ahead of the talks, Mr Barnier accused Britain of not keeping up with its commitments.


thedailyexpress--2020-06-01--Brexit warning: EU want to teach Britain a lesson so UK will 'prefer to stay' in bloc

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Former Member of the European Parliament ( MEP ) Daniel Hannan has said that this is mainly due to the appointment of Michel Barnier .
Writing in the Daily Telegraph Mr Hannan said : `` In order to show the recalcitrant British that the EU were in no mind to compromise , they appointed a hardline federalist who had previously enraged the City @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Mr Hannan , who served as a Tory MEP before the UK left the Brussels bloc on January 31 , was referring to the EU appointment of Mr Barnier .
He added Mr Barnier had told the EU that he will have done his job , “ if , in the end , the deal is so hard on the British that they ’ d prefer to stay in the EU '' .
Mr Hannan described the EU has having a hostile attitude to Brexit .
He explained that the bloc 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to any of the 27 member states .
Mr Hannan said : `` The EU has locked itself into a position that was designed not to get the best result for its 27 members , but to stop Brexit . ''
MUST READ : Boris to tell EU he wo n't return next year for new Brexit trade talks

Brexit: EU's plans to extend transition period criticised by expert
Former Member of the European Parliament (MEP) Daniel Hannan has said that this is mainly due to the appointment of Michel Barnier. Writing in the Daily Telegraph Mr Hannan said: "In order to show the recalcitrant British that the EU were in no mind to compromise, they appointed a hardline federalist who had previously enraged the City of London as their Brexit negotiator." Mr Hannan, who served as a Tory MEP before the UK left the Brussels bloc on January 31, was referring to the EU appointment of Mr Barnier.
He added Mr Barnier had told the EU that he will have done his job, “if, in the end, the deal is so hard on the British that they’d prefer to stay in the EU". Mr Hannan described the EU has having a hostile attitude to Brexit. He explained that the bloc's response to Brexit would not be beneficial to any of the 27 member states. Mr Hannan said: "The EU has locked itself into a position that was designed not to get the best result for its 27 members, but to stop Brexit." MUST READ: Boris to tell EU he won't return next year for new Brexit trade talks
Michel Barnier EU Brexit negotiator
Michel Barnier and Leo Varadkar
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The economies of Europe
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thedailyexpress--2020-06-01--Brexit POLL: Should Boris Johnson request an extension to the transition period? VOTE

Express.co.uk readers can vote in our poll on whether Boris Johnson should ask the EU for an extension to the transition period .
Britain and Brussels have until the end of the year to strike a free trade deal and the fourth round of negotiations is taking place this week .
In his letter to Mr Gove , the pro-Remain London Mayor insisted the “ last thing ” the UK needs is “ more chaos and uncertainty ” during the coronavirus crisis .
Mr Khan said : “ No one anticipated when voting for Brexit that the key negotiations would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ governments are rightly focused on fighting a global pandemic .
“ The last thing the country needs as it tries to find a way back from the devastation wreaked by coronavirus is more chaos and uncertainty .
“ I urge the Government to put political ideology aside and pursue the pragmatic route of seeking an extension to the negotiations so that we and our European partners can focus on recovery from Covid-19.
” The London Mayor said coronavirus is the “ biggest health , social and economic emergency ” since the Second World @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disruption , in the form of tariffs , red tape and new immigration rules when we leave the single market and customs union at the end of the year , would be needless and hazardous .
“ Close regulatory alignment with the EU has never been more vital to protect our economy and support its recovery from the impacts of Covid-19.
” Mr Khan added that an extension to the December 31 2020 deadline is “ urgently needed ” .
READ MORE : Michel Barnier ’ s Brexit fury exposed : ‘ EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : “ The Government ’ s negotiations with the EU and other countries are highly unlikely to progress towards meaningful results and agreements while the pandemic continues .
“ An extension to the transition period is now urgently needed to give businesses and public services some certainty that they won ’ t face another cliff edge in six months ’ time .
“ Otherwise the Government risks undermining the unprecedented steps it has taken to protect jobs and livelihoods , by prolonging uncertainty about our economy and the terms on which future @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minister has repeatedly ruled out extending the transition period despite claims the timeframe is too tight .
DO N'T MISS Fisheries countdown : Johnson faces 30 day battle to secure Brexit deal [ INSIGHT ] EU exposed for bullying as Brexit talks wo n't meet their demands [ VIDEO ] 'Labour 's 'Red Wall ' voted for Brexit - now let 's repay the trust ' [ COMMENT ] Last Friday Mr Johnson ’ s Europe adviser David Frost insisted the UK would reject any request from the EU to push back the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Lords EU Committee : `` The Government 's position 's pretty clear that we are not going to ask for an extension and if the EU asks for one , we will not agree to that .
`` So I think that 's just part of the framework now and we 're working to an end-year deadline . ''
The EU ’ s chief negotiator Michel Barnier said the EU was “ open ” to a two-year Brexit delay .

Brexit: Frost says they 'wouldn't agree' to EU extension request
Express.co.uk readers can vote in our poll on whether Boris Johnson should ask the EU for an extension to the transition period. Britain and Brussels have until the end of the year to strike a free trade deal and the fourth round of negotiations is taking place this week. THIS POLL IS NOW CLOSED. CLICK HERE FOR THE RESULTS.
In his letter to Mr Gove, the pro-Remain London Mayor insisted the “last thing” the UK needs is “more chaos and uncertainty” during the coronavirus crisis. Mr Khan said: “No one anticipated when voting for Brexit that the key negotiations would take place at a time when all governments are rightly focused on fighting a global pandemic. “The last thing the country needs as it tries to find a way back from the devastation wreaked by coronavirus is more chaos and uncertainty. “I urge the Government to put political ideology aside and pursue the pragmatic route of seeking an extension to the negotiations so that we and our European partners can focus on recovery from Covid-19.”
Readers can vote in our poll on whether Boris Johnson should ask the EU for an extension
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has written to Michael Gove calling for an extension to the Brexit transition period
The London Mayor said coronavirus is the “biggest health, social and economic emergency” since the Second World War. He continued: “Further disruption, in the form of tariffs, red tape and new immigration rules when we leave the single market and customs union at the end of the year, would be needless and hazardous. “Close regulatory alignment with the EU has never been more vital to protect our economy and support its recovery from the impacts of Covid-19.” Mr Khan added that an extension to the December 31 2020 deadline is “urgently needed”. READ MORE: Michel Barnier’s Brexit fury exposed: ‘EU needs to teach UK a lesson'
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Britain and Brussels have until the end of the year to strike a free trade deal and the fourth round of negotiations is taking place this week
He said: “The Government’s negotiations with the EU and other countries are highly unlikely to progress towards meaningful results and agreements while the pandemic continues. “An extension to the transition period is now urgently needed to give businesses and public services some certainty that they won’t face another cliff edge in six months’ time. “Otherwise the Government risks undermining the unprecedented steps it has taken to protect jobs and livelihoods, by prolonging uncertainty about our economy and the terms on which future trade will be conducted.” The Prime Minister has repeatedly ruled out extending the transition period despite claims the timeframe is too tight. DON'T MISS
Fisheries countdown: Johnson faces 30 day battle to secure Brexit deal [INSIGHT]
EU exposed for bullying as Brexit talks won't meet their demands [VIDEO]
'Labour's 'Red Wall' voted for Brexit - now let's repay the trust' [COMMENT]
Last Friday Mr Johnson’s Europe adviser David Frost insisted the UK would reject any request from the EU to push back the deadline. Mr Frost told the House of Lords EU Committee: "The Government's position's pretty clear that we are not going to ask for an extension and if the EU asks for one, we will not agree to that. "So I think that's just part of the framework now and we're working to an end-year deadline." The EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier said the EU was “open” to a two-year Brexit delay.
Trade talks have been continuing remotely due to the coronavirus pandemic
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