thedailyexpress--2020-04-19--Labour Shadow Chancellor Anneliese Dodds broke election rules during campaign at Oxford

The privately educated leftwinger was fined £75 in her time as a student at Oxford University after breaking election rules in her successful campaign in 1998 to take the most senior student position .
Ms Dodds and the members of her student election slate , who were each fined £25 , were reprimanded for for encouraging students at St Hilda ’ s to work for her campaign via email .
The revelations have raised doubts over Sir Keir Starmer ’ s decision to appoint the former MEP and Remain campaigner who is now the MP for Oxford East to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Tory MP Andrew Bridgen said : “ Do n't Labour ask their Parliamentary candidates ‘ Is there anything in your past which if it came to light would embarrass the Party ?
’ But then if they did perhaps they would not have any candidates.
” He added : “ Labour do n't really get election rules but then given their position on Brexit they do n't really get democracy either.
” The revelations are an embarrassment for Sir Keir who led demands for Vote Leave to be investigated by the police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ election rules in a controversial ruling by the Electoral Commission .
Labour and Remainers have also made multiple claims about Aaron Banks and Leave.eu breaching data rules around email addresses for which Mr Banks has been cleared .
Labour have declined to comment about the story after being approached by the Sunday Express .
But when Ms Dodds first ran to be an MP in 2017 she was challenged by her local paper Cherwell .
She told them : “ I did something that was at the time technically against the OUSU rules @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was against the rules , ” she said .
“ The RO [ Returning Officer ] said that he knew that I knew that.
” She also accused the student newspaper Michaelmas , which first ran the allegations , of political bias even though its editor Hadley Freeman became a Guardian columnist .
According to reports , Stephen Moses , Returning Officer of OUSU concluded that Dodds ’ actions had “ no determinable impact ” on the election , and that her interpretation of ‘ canvassing ’ was “ incorrect but understandable @ @

Labour Shadow Chancellor Anneliese Dodds broke election rules
The privately educated leftwinger was fined £75 in her time as a student at Oxford University after breaking election rules in her successful campaign in 1998 to take the most senior student position. Ms Dodds and the members of her student election slate, who were each fined £25, were reprimanded for for encouraging students at St Hilda’s to work for her campaign via email.
The revelations have raised doubts over Sir Keir Starmer’s decision to appoint the former MEP and Remain campaigner who is now the MP for Oxford East to the most senior role in his shadow cabinet. Tory MP Andrew Bridgen said: “Don't Labour ask their Parliamentary candidates ‘Is there anything in your past which if it came to light would embarrass the Party?’ But then if they did perhaps they would not have any candidates.” He added: “Labour don't really get election rules but then given their position on Brexit they don't really get democracy either.”
Sir Keir Starmer led demands for Vote Leave to be investigated by the police in 2018
The revelations are an embarrassment for Sir Keir who led demands for Vote Leave to be investigated by the police in 2018 after it fell foul of election rules in a controversial ruling by the Electoral Commission. Labour and Remainers have also made multiple claims about Aaron Banks and Leave.eu breaching data rules around email addresses for which Mr Banks has been cleared. Labour have declined to comment about the story after being approached by the Sunday Express. But when Ms Dodds first ran to be an MP in 2017 she was challenged by her local paper Cherwell.
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thedailyexpress--2020-04-19--Robert Peston ‘gobsmacked’ by Boris Johnson claim as he points to email from February 11

Mr Peston , who is the political editor at ITV , took to Twitter this morning to express his disbelief concerning a report by The Sunday Times .
The disclosure by the newspaper alleges Mr Johnson skipped out on five emergency COBRA meetings concerning the virus , and that his Government ignored warnings from scientific advisers as early as February .
Mr Peston also drew attention to an email he sent to his colleagues at ITV on February 11 concerning the virus .
He tweeted : “ On 11 February , I emailed ITV colleagues that a senior government source @ @ @ @ @ @ @ within a fortnight or so if we are looking at a pandemic in the UK .
The risk is 60 percent of the population getting it .
With the mortality rate of perhaps just over 1 % , we are looking at not far off 500k deaths.
’ “ Ministers knew by 2nd week of February the gravity of what confronted us .
So I am literally gobsmacked by The Sunday Times ’ disclosure that the PM was not prioritising the looming coronavirus catastrophe till March.
” Mr Peston also added senior health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on January 22 , a date he remembers due to discussing the issue on his self-titled show .
Please sign up to pledge your support now to our brave NHS Heroes The Sunday Times recently published the damning investigative report into the Government ’ s actions in the days leading up to the explosion of COVID-19 cases in the UK .
In the report , journalists state Mr Johnson skipped five emergency COBRA meetings which were convened to tackle the spread of the disease .
A senior adviser broke ranks to speak to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a failure of leadership by the Prime Minister and his cabinet .
The source told the newspaper : “ There ’ s no way you ’ re at war if your PM isn ’ t there .
READ MORE : How Robert Peston revealed 'real problem ' with BBC 's Brexit coverage “ And what you learn about Boris was he didn ’ t chair any meetings .
He liked his country breaks .
He didn ’ t work weekends .
It was like working for an old-fashioned chief executive in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There was a real sense that he didn ’ t do urgent crisis planning .
It was exactly like people feared he would be.
” The report also states calls to order protective gear were ignored , with warnings from scientists falling on deaf ears .
It is asserted failings over five weeks from the Government may have cost thousands of lives in Britain .
DO N'T MISS Boris missed FIVE cobra meetings in early stages of coronavirus [ SHOCK ] Coronavirus map LIVE : Boris Johnson issues first orders from Chequers [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus lockdown until autumn of 2021 [ INSIGHT ] However , a senior Government minister has refuted the idea Mr Johnson missed meetings .
Michael Gove , Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster , this morning described the assertion as grotesque while speaking on Sky News .
The Government has come under increased scrutiny this morning as a result of The Sunday Times report .
BorisResign , alongside # BorisMustGo has trended on Twitter , with many calling for an inquiry to take place to analyse the Government ’ s response to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ criticised this idea .
Gavin Barwell , former Chief of Staff to Theresa May , condemned the suggestion of focusing on an inquiry at this point in time .
He tweeted : “ I despair at my timeline this morning .
We are a few weeks into a crisis that has months - possibly years - to run and people are already trying to conduct the inquiry that will come afterwards .
“ Is it too much to ask that we focus on what to do now rather than who to blame ?
@

Matt Hancock grilled on ‘trust’ in the British people by Peston
Mr Peston, who is the political editor at ITV, took to Twitter this morning to express his disbelief concerning a report by The Sunday Times. The disclosure by the newspaper alleges Mr Johnson skipped out on five emergency COBRA meetings concerning the virus, and that his Government ignored warnings from scientific advisers as early as February. Mr Peston also drew attention to an email he sent to his colleagues at ITV on February 11 concerning the virus.
He tweeted: “On 11 February, I emailed ITV colleagues that a senior government source had told me ‘we should know within a fortnight or so if we are looking at a pandemic in the UK. The risk is 60 percent of the population getting it. With the mortality rate of perhaps just over 1%, we are looking at not far off 500k deaths.’ “Ministers knew by 2nd week of February the gravity of what confronted us. So I am literally gobsmacked by The Sunday Times’ disclosure that the PM was not prioritising the looming coronavirus catastrophe till March.” Mr Peston also added senior health experts knew of the threat of COVID-19 on January 22, a date he remembers due to discussing the issue on his self-titled show. Please sign up to pledge your support now to our brave NHS Heroes
Robert Peston has expressed shock over a Sunday Times report on the Government
Mr Peston said he was 'gobsmacked' at claims the Prime Minister was slow to respond
The Sunday Times recently published the damning investigative report into the Government’s actions in the days leading up to the explosion of COVID-19 cases in the UK. In the report, journalists state Mr Johnson skipped five emergency COBRA meetings which were convened to tackle the spread of the disease. A senior adviser broke ranks to speak to The Sunday Times, blaming the crisis on a failure of leadership by the Prime Minister and his cabinet. The source told the newspaper: “There’s no way you’re at war if your PM isn’t there. READ MORE: How Robert Peston revealed 'real problem' with BBC's Brexit coverage
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Mr Peston tweeted about the COVID-19 issue
“And what you learn about Boris was he didn’t chair any meetings. He liked his country breaks. He didn’t work weekends. It was like working for an old-fashioned chief executive in a local authority 20 years ago. “There was a real sense that he didn’t do urgent crisis planning. It was exactly like people feared he would be.” The report also states calls to order protective gear were ignored, with warnings from scientists falling on deaf ears. It is asserted failings over five weeks from the Government may have cost thousands of lives in Britain. DON'T MISS
Boris missed FIVE cobra meetings in early stages of coronavirus [SHOCK]
Coronavirus map LIVE: Boris Johnson issues first orders from Chequers [LIVE]
Britons over 70 could face coronavirus lockdown until autumn of 2021 [INSIGHT]
Mr Peston claims the Government knew about the seriousness of the issue months ago
Mr Peston said ministers knew about the gravity of the issue in the second week of February
However, a senior Government minister has refuted the idea Mr Johnson missed meetings. Michael Gove, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, this morning described the assertion as grotesque while speaking on Sky News. The Government has come under increased scrutiny this morning as a result of The Sunday Times report. BorisResign, alongside #BorisMustGo has trended on Twitter, with many calling for an inquiry to take place to analyse the Government’s response to the crisis.
The Government's plan to fight back against coronavirus
However, some have also criticised this idea. Gavin Barwell, former Chief of Staff to Theresa May, condemned the suggestion of focusing on an inquiry at this point in time. He tweeted: “I despair at my timeline this morning. We are a few weeks into a crisis that has months - possibly years - to run and people are already trying to conduct the inquiry that will come afterwards. “Is it too much to ask that we focus on what to do now rather than who to blame?"
Mr Peston referenced a report by the Sunday Times which was critical of the Prime Minister
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-04-19--Boris Johnson told to tear up £39billion divorce bill if EU fail to agree 2020 trade deal

With Britain ’ s chief negotiator David Frost confirming that the UK government will not cave in to EU and Remainer demands and not extend the transition period at the end of the year , MPs are pushing for negotiators to get tough .
The need to keep hold of Britain ’ s £39 billion has also been underlined by the cost of dealing with coronavirus particularly the economic £250 billion rescue package announced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak to protect jobs and businesses .
MPs are pushing for negotiators to get tough .
There are concerns that the EU is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to be extended There are concerns that the EU is deliberately briefing that the transition period will have to be extended while Michel Barnier ’ s negotiation team drags its feet to try to force a delay in Britain being free of EU rules .
North West Leicestershire MP Andrew Bridgen said : “ Circumstances have changed .
The UK taxpayer now has a major bill to pick up to pay for the coronavirus aftermath .
“ We can not afford to pay huge sums of money to a dysfunctional organisation which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ The government needs to look at this again particularly if the EU fails to conclude an acceptable trade deal with us we should be paying nothing . ''
Wellingborough MP Peter Bone pointed out that talks can easily be done over video conferencing and there was no need to delay .
He said : “ Given that Britain has paid the EU around £210 billion already they should be paying us not us them .
“ I never agreed that we should pay them £39 billion .
“ If the EU itself @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agree on a sensible proper free trade deal then we should rethink the money we promised to pay in the Withdrawal Agreement .
”

With Britain’s chief negotiator David Frost confirming that the UK government will not cave in to EU and Remainer demands and not extend the transition period at the end of the year, MPs are pushing for negotiators to get tough. The need to keep hold of Britain’s £39 billion has also been underlined by the cost of dealing with coronavirus particularly the economic £250 billion rescue package announced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak to protect jobs and businesses.
MPs are pushing for negotiators to get tough.
There are concerns that the EU is deliberately briefing that the transition period will have to be extended
There are concerns that the EU is deliberately briefing that the transition period will have to be extended while Michel Barnier’s negotiation team drags its feet to try to force a delay in Britain being free of EU rules.
North West Leicestershire MP Andrew Bridgen said: “Circumstances have changed. The UK taxpayer now has a major bill to pick up to pay for the coronavirus aftermath.
“We cannot afford to pay huge sums of money to a dysfunctional organisation which we are no longer part of.
“The government needs to look at this again particularly if the EU fails to conclude an acceptable trade deal with us we should be paying nothing."
Wellingborough MP Peter Bone pointed out that talks can easily be done over video conferencing and there was no need to delay.
He said: “Given that Britain has paid the EU around £210 billion already they should be paying us not us them.
“I never agreed that we should pay them £39 billion.
“If the EU itself does not act in good faith and agree on a sensible proper free trade deal then we should rethink the money we promised to pay in the Withdrawal Agreement.”


thedailyexpress--2020-04-19--Ex-MP Douglas Carswell pinpoints how Remainers are using coronavirus crisis to STOP Brexit

Ex-UKIP and independent MP Douglas Carswell hit out at Remainers for using the coronavirus pandemic as an excuse to extend the EU transition period .
The co-founder of the Vote Leave campaign tweeted : “ Remainers still trying to get us to remain .
Even using this crisis as a pretext.
” It comes as the UK is in a transition period with the EU until the end of December 2020 , during which time Britain continues to follow the bloc ’ s rules as the two sides negotiate a free trade deal .
A further three rounds of talks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before the end of June .
In a joint statement following a video conference on Wednesday , the UK ’ s chief negotiator David Frost and his EU counterpart Michel Barnier said : `` While this work has been useful to identify all major areas of divergence and convergence , the two sides agreed on the need to organise further negotiating rounds in order to make real , tangible progress in the negotiations by June .
`` Given the ongoing coronavirus crisis , these negotiating rounds , the structure of which is set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will take place via video conference . ''
The talks will each last a week and take place from April 20 , May 11 and June 1 .
A further meeting is expected in June to review the progress that has been made .
On Thursday , Downing Street rejected a call by the head of the International Monetary Fund ( IMF ) not to rule out an extension to the transition period .
READ MORE : ‘ Impossible ’ Brexit will happen this year warns Merkel ally Kristalina Georgieva , managing director @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK and the EU should not “ add to uncertainty ” caused by coronavirus .
She told the BBC : `` I really hope that all policymakers everywhere would be thinking about [ reducing uncertainty ] .
“ It is tough as it is , let 's not make it any tougher .
DO N'T MISS The new mantra is local ... and Brexit Britain is prepared [ COMMENT ] UK could pay ‘ massive ’ coronavirus EU payments if transition extended [ INSIGHT ] Brexiteer Rod Liddle predicts Remainers will demand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would back an extension to the deadline , Ms Georgieva said : `` My advice would be to seek ways in which this element of uncertainty is reduced in the interests of everybody , the UK , the EU , and the whole world . ''
However , the Prime Minister ’ s spokesman said extending the transition period would create more uncertainty .
The spokesman said : `` We will not ask to extend the transition period and if the EU asks we will say 'no ’ .
`` Extending the transition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ business uncertainty , and delay the moment of control of our borders .
`` It would also keep us bound by EU legislation at a point when we need legislative and economic flexibility to manage the UK response to the coronavirus pandemic . ''

Rishi Sunak says UK is 'committed to Brexit timeline'
Ex-UKIP and independent MP Douglas Carswell hit out at Remainers for using the coronavirus pandemic as an excuse to extend the EU transition period. The co-founder of the Vote Leave campaign tweeted: “Remainers still trying to get us to remain. Even using this crisis as a pretext.”
It comes as the UK is in a transition period with the EU until the end of December 2020, during which time Britain continues to follow the bloc’s rules as the two sides negotiate a free trade deal. A further three rounds of talks on a post-Brexit deal will be held before the end of June. In a joint statement following a video conference on Wednesday, the UK’s chief negotiator David Frost and his EU counterpart Michel Barnier said: "While this work has been useful to identify all major areas of divergence and convergence, the two sides agreed on the need to organise further negotiating rounds in order to make real, tangible progress in the negotiations by June. "Given the ongoing coronavirus crisis, these negotiating rounds, the structure of which is set out in the terms of reference, will take place via video conference."
Remainers are using the coronavirus crisis to stop Brexit, a former MP has warned
The talks will each last a week and take place from April 20, May 11 and June 1. A further meeting is expected in June to review the progress that has been made. On Thursday, Downing Street rejected a call by the head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) not to rule out an extension to the transition period. READ MORE: ‘Impossible’ Brexit will happen this year warns Merkel ally
Douglas Carswell hit out at Remainers for using the coronavirus pandemic as an excuse to extend the EU transition period
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Kristalina Georgieva warned the UK and the EU should not “add to uncertainty” caused by coronavirus
Asked if she would back an extension to the deadline, Ms Georgieva said: "My advice would be to seek ways in which this element of uncertainty is reduced in the interests of everybody, the UK, the EU, and the whole world." However, the Prime Minister’s spokesman said extending the transition period would create more uncertainty. The spokesman said: "We will not ask to extend the transition period and if the EU asks we will say 'no’.
Boris Johnson has repeatedly insisted he will not push back the deadline
"Extending the transition would simply prolong the negotiations, prolong business uncertainty, and delay the moment of control of our borders. "It would also keep us bound by EU legislation at a point when we need legislative and economic flexibility to manage the UK response to the coronavirus pandemic." Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage accused the IMF of “outrageous interference”.
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thedailyexpress--2020-04-20--Boris Johnson could be back at No 10 this week to lead fight against coronavirus

Although colleagues believe he should not rush his return for health reasons , the Cabinet is enthusiastic about Mr Johnson taking up the reins again .
A ministerial source said last night : `` Make no mistake , the Prime Minister is calling the shots .
But he 's itching to come back full-time .
The Government needs him back and the country needs him back . ''
News of Mr Johnson 's progress came as a further 596 coronavirus hospital deaths were announced yesterday , marking the lowest daily rise in the UK for two weeks .
The total @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the nation was told many parts of the country were past the peak of the epidemic .
The Prime Minister is currently recovering at Chequers after being admitted to intensive care earlier this month .
Downing Street has refused to give a date for his return and he will be guided by his doctor 's advice .
It is unlikely he will be back in No10 until next month but he could take part in a `` virtual '' Prime Minister 's Questions before then .
In his absence , Minister for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daily meeting with Foreign Secretary Mr Raab , Health Secretary Matt Hancock and Chancellor Rishi Sunak .
Mr Gove yesterday also insisted Mr Johnson is in charge .
He said : `` The Prime Minister is recovering well .
He 's in cheerful spirits .
And he had the opportunity to talk to Dominic Raab , his deputy , the First Secretary of State , on Friday .
`` And the Prime Minister 's instructions to the rest of us in Government were communicated by the First Secretary of State when we had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Britain will remain in lockdown until at least May 7 , but Mr Johnson is understood to want to lead the country out of the measures .
However , the PM is facing a fierce backlash over his handling of the coronavirus crisis .
He has been accused of `` sleepwalking '' into the pandemic , after it was reported that he missed five emergency Cobra meetings on COVID-19 in January and February .
Mr Gove branded the reports `` grotesque '' , insisting that Mr Johnson 's leadership throughout the crisis had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` The idea that the Prime Minister skipped meetings that were vital to our response to the coronavirus , I think , is grotesque .
`` The truth is there are meetings across Government , some chaired by the Health Secretary , some which are chaired by other ministers .
But the Prime Minister took all the major decisions .
And I think anyone who considered what happened to the Prime Minister just a little while ago , nobody can say the Prime Minister was not throwing heart and soul into fighting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` His leadership has been clear .
It has been inspirational at times .
`` I think that actually nothing is more off beam than the suggestions the Prime Minister was anything other than energetic , determined and strong in his leadership against this virus . ''
Mr Gove insisted ministers had not made any decisions on when or how to ease the current lockdown restrictions .
He said : `` It is the case that we are looking at all of the evidence , but we 've set some tests which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think of easing restrictions in this lockdown .
`` It 's very important when we 're still in the process of making sure that we can reduce the rate of infection and also reduce the number of deaths , that we maintain the steps that we have . ''
Daily Express columnist Patrick O'Flynn said the country needs Mr Johnson back at the helm .
He said : `` Boris Johnson is a master communicator and – however much his detractors might dispute this – a master strategic thinker .
`` He alone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get things back on track .
`` It is easy to understand the qualms of Mr Johnson 's family and friends about thrusting the cares of office back upon his shoulders .
Undoubtedly , such a degree of responsibility is not ideal for someone convalescing after a near-death experience .
But being Prime Minister at a time of national crisis is not like any other job .
`` An hour or two a day of Boris Johnson back at the helm is desperately needed , including a weekly video message to the nation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and it is all going to be all right in the end . ''

This is what the country needs – Boris back running the show
Although colleagues believe he should not rush his return for health reasons, the Cabinet is enthusiastic about Mr Johnson taking up the reins again. A ministerial source said last night: "Make no mistake, the Prime Minister is calling the shots. But he's itching to come back full-time. The Government needs him back and the country needs him back." News of Mr Johnson's progress came as a further 596 coronavirus hospital deaths were announced yesterday, marking the lowest daily rise in the UK for two weeks.
The total number of fatalities climbed to 16,060 but the nation was told many parts of the country were past the peak of the epidemic. The Prime Minister is currently recovering at Chequers after being admitted to intensive care earlier this month. Downing Street has refused to give a date for his return and he will be guided by his doctor's advice. It is unlikely he will be back in No10 until next month but he could take part in a "virtual" Prime Minister's Questions before then. In his absence, Minister for the Cabinet Office Michael Gove is chairing a daily meeting with Foreign Secretary Mr Raab, Health Secretary Matt Hancock and Chancellor Rishi Sunak. Mr Gove yesterday also insisted Mr Johnson is in charge.
Michael Gove yesterday insisted Mr Johnson is in charge
He said: "The Prime Minister is recovering well. He's in cheerful spirits. And he had the opportunity to talk to Dominic Raab, his deputy, the First Secretary of State, on Friday. "And the Prime Minister's instructions to the rest of us in Government were communicated by the First Secretary of State when we had a conference call yesterday morning." Britain will remain in lockdown until at least May 7, but Mr Johnson is understood to want to lead the country out of the measures. However, the PM is facing a fierce backlash over his handling of the coronavirus crisis. He has been accused of "sleepwalking" into the pandemic, after it was reported that he missed five emergency Cobra meetings on COVID-19 in January and February.
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Mr Gove branded the reports "grotesque", insisting that Mr Johnson's leadership throughout the crisis had been "inspirational". He said: "The idea that the Prime Minister skipped meetings that were vital to our response to the coronavirus, I think, is grotesque. "The truth is there are meetings across Government, some chaired by the Health Secretary, some which are chaired by other ministers. But the Prime Minister took all the major decisions. And I think anyone who considered what happened to the Prime Minister just a little while ago, nobody can say the Prime Minister was not throwing heart and soul into fighting this virus." Mr Gove added: "His leadership has been clear. It has been inspirational at times.
"I think that actually nothing is more off beam than the suggestions the Prime Minister was anything other than energetic, determined and strong in his leadership against this virus." Mr Gove insisted ministers had not made any decisions on when or how to ease the current lockdown restrictions. He said: "It is the case that we are looking at all of the evidence, but we've set some tests which need to be passed before we can think of easing restrictions in this lockdown. "It's very important when we're still in the process of making sure that we can reduce the rate of infection and also reduce the number of deaths, that we maintain the steps that we have." Daily Express columnist Patrick O'Flynn said the country needs Mr Johnson back at the helm. He said: "Boris Johnson is a master communicator and – however much his detractors might dispute this – a master strategic thinker.
"He alone has the authority and the gumption to get things back on track. "It is easy to understand the qualms of Mr Johnson's family and friends about thrusting the cares of office back upon his shoulders. Undoubtedly, such a degree of responsibility is not ideal for someone convalescing after a near-death experience. But being Prime Minister at a time of national crisis is not like any other job. "An hour or two a day of Boris Johnson back at the helm is desperately needed, including a weekly video message to the nation that reassures us there is a plan and it is all going to be all right in the end."


thedailyexpress--2020-04-20--Parliament to reopen tomorrow – but MPs urged to stay away by House of Commons Speaker

Radical plans have been put in place that will allow Parliament to function , with the bulk of members able to grill Ministers remotely .
As many as 50 MPs will be allowed to take part in the sessions from the Commons chamber , but Parliament authorities said strict social distancing rules would remain in place , including laying markings to ensure they remain at least six feet six inches apart .
Eight screens are to be set-up in the chamber to allow ministers to take questions remotely , with Sir Lindsay saying those attending in person would have the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their laptop or iPad in their kitchen '' .
There will also be a “ virtual ” Prime Minister ’ s Questions .
It comes after a Westminster saw a string of cases of the disease before it shut down last month , with Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Health Secretary Matt Hancock both testing positive for the virus .
Sir Lindsay said : “ I know some colleagues will feel it is their right to be seen to be present , but I would urge them to stay away .
“ For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , staff have to come in to support them , which goes against everything we are being told to do .
I do not want MPs and House staff putting themselves at risk .
“ After all , there is no benefit to being here physically .
Under this new – and temporary – measure , MPs in the chamber will have no more advantage.
” Sir Lindsay has been in consultations with Public Health England to draw up plans to check these MPs are “ fit and well ” before entering the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Commons will use Zoom to allow 120 MPs to take part in proceedings remotely , while those who continue to attend the Palace of Westminster will obey strict social distancing rules .
Experts from the National Cyber Security Centre have told the Commons authorities the use of Zoom will be appropriate for the hearings as long as the application 's use is carefully managed .
The unprecedented step towards a “ hybrid ” house was taken by the Commons Commission to keep parliamentary democracy going during the coronavirus crisis .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MPs when Parliament returns from the Easter break on April 21 .
The Speaker said : “ By initiating a hybrid solution , with steps towards an entirely virtual Parliament , we are enabling members to stay close to their communities , while continuing their important work scrutinising the Government .
“ I do not want members and House staff putting themselves at risk .
“ By working virtually , this is our contribution to the guidance of stay home , protect the NHS and save lives.
” Former Tory minister Rob Halfon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ preach '' by making virtual attendance mandatory .
He said : `` We should set an example to the nation .
`` If we are telling people to stay at home then we should practise what we preach .
If we then go into parliament ourselves we are potentially spreading it . ''
Commons Leader Jacob Rees-Mogg added : “ These measures will make it possible for Parliament to continue its work of conducting scrutiny , authorising spending and making laws – all of which are essential to tackling coronavirus .
“ I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ showing the leadership necessary to make this happen ; to the parties , who have worked together constructively to ensure next week 's business will run smoothly with the minimal necessary attendance in Westminster ; and to House staff , for working so hard over the Easter break to make these changes technically possible .
”

Jacob Rees-Mogg discusses 'digital Parliament voting'
Radical plans have been put in place that will allow Parliament to function, with the bulk of members able to grill Ministers remotely. As many as 50 MPs will be allowed to take part in the sessions from the Commons chamber, but Parliament authorities said strict social distancing rules would remain in place, including laying markings to ensure they remain at least six feet six inches apart.
Eight screens are to be set-up in the chamber to allow ministers to take questions remotely, with Sir Lindsay saying those attending in person would have the same access as those sitting "with their laptop or iPad in their kitchen". There will also be a “virtual” Prime Minister’s Questions. It comes after a Westminster saw a string of cases of the disease before it shut down last month, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Health Secretary Matt Hancock both testing positive for the virus.
Matt Hancock, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, speaks at the Despatch Box
Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle said politicians should stay at home
Sir Lindsay said: “I know some colleagues will feel it is their right to be seen to be present, but I would urge them to stay away. “For every Member who turns up to Parliament, staff have to come in to support them, which goes against everything we are being told to do. I do not want MPs and House staff putting themselves at risk. “After all, there is no benefit to being here physically. Under this new – and temporary – measure, MPs in the chamber will have no more advantage.”
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Sir Lindsay has been in consultations with Public Health England to draw up plans to check these MPs are “fit and well” before entering the parliamentary estate, and mooted temperature checks. The Commons will use Zoom to allow 120 MPs to take part in proceedings remotely, while those who continue to attend the Palace of Westminster will obey strict social distancing rules. Experts from the National Cyber Security Centre have told the Commons authorities the use of Zoom will be appropriate for the hearings as long as the application's use is carefully managed. The unprecedented step towards a “hybrid” house was taken by the Commons Commission to keep parliamentary democracy going during the coronavirus crisis. The plan still needs to be approved by MPs when Parliament returns from the Easter break on April 21.
The Speaker said: “By initiating a hybrid solution, with steps towards an entirely virtual Parliament, we are enabling members to stay close to their communities, while continuing their important work scrutinising the Government. “I do not want members and House staff putting themselves at risk. “By working virtually, this is our contribution to the guidance of stay home, protect the NHS and save lives.” Former Tory minister Rob Halfon said MPs should "practise what we preach" by making virtual attendance mandatory. He said: "We should set an example to the nation.
"If we are telling people to stay at home then we should practise what we preach. If we then go into parliament ourselves we are potentially spreading it." Commons Leader Jacob Rees-Mogg added: “These measures will make it possible for Parliament to continue its work of conducting scrutiny, authorising spending and making laws – all of which are essential to tackling coronavirus. “I am extremely grateful to Mr Speaker for showing the leadership necessary to make this happen; to the parties, who have worked together constructively to ensure next week's business will run smoothly with the minimal necessary attendance in Westminster; and to House staff, for working so hard over the Easter break to make these changes technically possible.”
Commons Leader Jacob Rees-Mogg


thedailyexpress--2020-04-21--Labour Party faces financial RUIN as bombshell report sparks huge legal challenge

Claims that could be submitted to the Labour Party as soon as next week include those covering the Data Protection Act , invasion of privacy and libel , The Guardian has reported .
The party , individuals and some media commentators are all reported to be the subject of legal complaints as a result of the document 's release and remarks made about its contents .
The document , which threatens to blow Labour apart , claimed factional hostility towards former leader Jeremy Corbyn contributed to the party 's handling of widespread ant-Semitism complaints , which subsequently heavily undermined its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also includes direct criticisms of the party and some of its leading figures by staff members in private messages .
But since the release of the report , a number of people mentioned in the document have reportedly contacted lawyers , with each said to be considering several different legal claims .
If the claims go further and should Labour lose in court or opt to settle , the party could face a huge legal bill .
Any negative outcome would also blow a massive hole in Sir Keir Starmer 's hopes of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subject of fierce infighting over recent years .
Labour 's former Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell , who also stepped down earlier this month , has said the report was commissioned by General Secretary Jennie Formby and put together 's by the party 's governance and legal sector .
The huge dossier was supposed to have been submitted to the investigation by the Equalities and Human Rights Commission antisemitism sweeping through Labour , but that attempted move was blocked by the party 's lawyers .
Mark Lewis , a lawyer who has been contacted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Observer he has been contacted by 15 people , adding `` each one of them could well have several claims '' .
He said : “ There are lots and lots of claims .
There are claims under the Data Protection Act , there are claims for breach of confidence or invasion of privacy and there are claims for libel .
It is a very lengthy report that mentions a lot of people .
`` I ’ ve been contacted by 15 people .
Each one of them could well have several @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Starmer to get a grip as party descends into row '' What is going on is phenomenal .
It ’ s a bit like the soldiers leaving a barracks that they have to desert and setting it on fire .
Mr Lewis added : “ For four years , people in Labour have said there is no antisemitism in the party , it ’ s just a smear .
Now they say that of course there was antisemitism , ‘ but it just wasn ’ t us ’ .
`` They have not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ position .
There are actions against the party , actions against individuals , actions against commentators .
`` People need to be careful about statements that have been made .
If this bankrupts the Labour Party or individuals , so be it .
Actions have consequences.
” DO N'T MISS How Labour ally brutally snubbed Keir Starmer over Brexit [ ANALYSIS ] John McDonnell 's shocking response to internal Labour feud [ COMMENT ] BBC 's Nick Robinson in brutal grilling of Jon Ashworth over PPE [ VIDEO ] A person considering legal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Several of us are already in detailed conversations with a number of legal teams .
The Labour party had made serious allegations about our behaviour .
`` These allegations were never put to us and not a single one of us did anything other than to work towards the best possible result in the 2017 election .
`` Many of us are now being subjected to horrendous online abuse directly as a consequence.
” The inquiry into the report has been ordered by new leader Sir Keir and his deputy Angela Rayner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Labour Party staffers this will investigate how it was commissioned , the culture it reveals and who leaked it .

Keir Starmer says he is ‘determined’ to ‘pull party together’
Claims that could be submitted to the Labour Party as soon as next week include those covering the Data Protection Act, invasion of privacy and libel, The Guardian has reported. The party, individuals and some media commentators are all reported to be the subject of legal complaints as a result of the document's release and remarks made about its contents. The document, which threatens to blow Labour apart, claimed factional hostility towards former leader Jeremy Corbyn contributed to the party's handling of widespread ant-Semitism complaints, which subsequently heavily undermined its disastrous general election campaign.
The report also includes direct criticisms of the party and some of its leading figures by staff members in private messages. But since the release of the report, a number of people mentioned in the document have reportedly contacted lawyers, with each said to be considering several different legal claims. If the claims go further and should Labour lose in court or opt to settle, the party could face a huge legal bill. Any negative outcome would also blow a massive hole in Sir Keir Starmer's hopes of uniting Labour, which has been the subject of fierce infighting over recent years. Sign our petition to give Captain Tom Moore a knighthood
The Labour Party could face financial turmoil as a bombshell report sparks huge legal challenge
Keir Starmer is desperately trying to reunite the Labour Party
Labour's former Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell, who also stepped down earlier this month, has said the report was commissioned by General Secretary Jennie Formby and put together's by the party's governance and legal sector. The huge dossier was supposed to have been submitted to the investigation by the Equalities and Human Rights Commission antisemitism sweeping through Labour, but that attempted move was blocked by the party's lawyers. Mark Lewis, a lawyer who has been contacted by those seeking legal action, told the Observer he has been contacted by 15 people, adding "each one of them could well have several claims". He said: “There are lots and lots of claims. There are claims under the Data Protection Act, there are claims for breach of confidence or invasion of privacy and there are claims for libel. It is a very lengthy report that mentions a lot of people. "I’ve been contacted by 15 people. Each one of them could well have several claims. READ MORE: McDonnell urges Starmer to get a grip as party descends into row
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Jeremy Corbyn oversaw a humiliating defeat for Labour in the general election
"What is going on is phenomenal. It’s a bit like the soldiers leaving a barracks that they have to desert and setting it on fire. Mr Lewis added: “For four years, people in Labour have said there is no antisemitism in the party, it’s just a smear. Now they say that of course there was antisemitism, ‘but it just wasn’t us’. "They have not noticed the absurdity of their change of position. There are actions against the party, actions against individuals, actions against commentators. "People need to be careful about statements that have been made. If this bankrupts the Labour Party or individuals, so be it. Actions have consequences.” DON'T MISS
How Labour ally brutally snubbed Keir Starmer over Brexit [ANALYSIS]
John McDonnell's shocking response to internal Labour feud [COMMENT]
BBC's Nick Robinson in brutal grilling of Jon Ashworth over PPE [VIDEO]
The Labour Party could be hit with several legal claims
Angela Rayner has also ordered an inquiry into the report
A person considering legal action, speaking anonymously, said: “Several of us are already in detailed conversations with a number of legal teams. The Labour party had made serious allegations about our behaviour. "These allegations were never put to us and not a single one of us did anything other than to work towards the best possible result in the 2017 election. "Many of us are now being subjected to horrendous online abuse directly as a consequence.” The inquiry into the report has been ordered by new leader Sir Keir and his deputy Angela Rayner. General Secretary Ms Formby has told Labour Party staffers this will investigate how it was commissioned, the culture it reveals and who leaked it.
Main reasons for not sticking with the Labour Party
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-04-20--Boris faces uphill Brexit battle as ‘agenda torn to shreds' by COVID-19 warns John Curtice

Mr Johnson - currently resting after a bout of COVID-19 which put him in intensive care earlier this month - is having to adapt to the harsh post-coronavirus landscape , and agonising trade-off between what Sir John characterised as `` your grandad 's health and your job '' .
Sir John , professor of politics at the University of Strathclyde , told Express.co.uk : `` This Government 's agenda has just been torn to shreds .
`` The Government 's given the go-ahead for HS2 but how much we 're going to be able to borrow on top of what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
There must be question marks there .
`` And of course , the other battle , the thing which have to face at some point , which they will have to make a decision about is about Brexit .
With talks aimed at thrashing out a free trade deal resuming today , Sir John questioned whether enough progress could be made by June to allow the UK to leave as planned at the end of the transition period on December 31 , saying : `` There could be a very tough call @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit potentially now becomes a source of division because obviously , Johnson 's strength has been basically been that he went for the Leave camp , won an election , took out of his party all the people who were serious doubters about it and was in a very , very strong position .
`` The risk he faces is domestic agenda is , for the time being , at least , ripped up up .
`` So to that extent , he either is or is at least potentially weaker . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minister in yesterday 's Sunday Times , not least the suggestion he had missed five Cobra meetings , Sir John said : `` The Sunday Times piece , I think , in a sense was trying to feed on a criticism that is often made of Johnson , which is that he 's not a man for detail and that he tends to have a sunny disposition he 's always wanting to talk things up .
READ MORE : Not again : China imposes NEW coronavirus lockdown - fears grow '' These criticisms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quite early on said 'we 've got to defeat this virus and then we can get on with everything else ' .
`` And actually this is why this exit strategy so difficult .
Defeat is pretty probably not a word , at the moment which is likely to be in the lexicon and the absence of a great deal of luck about the sickness dying out in the summer position or medicine taking over .
`` And how he manages that can be quite difficult because this will not be about sunny @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ourselves from the European Union , it will be about difficult trade-offs between your grandad 's health and your job . ''
DO N'T MISS Kate Middleton and Prince William launch heartwarming campaign for Britons under lockdown [ ARTICLE ] ITV 's Robert Peston in heated row with Hancock over mask use - ‘ Everyone else is wrong ?
’ [ VIDEO ] Brazilian President Bolsanaro fires Health Minister in shock coronavirus clash [ LATEST ] Nevertheless , despite the criticism , Sir John suggested Mr Johnson would be keen to continue in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him to so .
He said : `` This is somebody who clearly in a variety of ways wanted to change Britain .
`` This is a government that is having to use the power of the state in a way that has been inconceivable at least since the 1970s .
`` I presume in the short run as because he managed to avoid going on a ventilator , that although still take him a while to recover .
`` Anybody who 's ever had a serious part of the flu knows how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But presumably , the expectation is that within a matter of weeks , he will be back to full health obviously , what the psychological impact on him is , who knows or having had , you know , having had what was a pretty serious brush .

Brexit: John Curtice outlines EU’s biggest ‘concern’ in trade talks
Mr Johnson - currently resting after a bout of COVID-19 which put him in intensive care earlier this month - is having to adapt to the harsh post-coronavirus landscape, and agonising trade-off between what Sir John characterised as "your grandad's health and your job". Sir John, professor of politics at the University of Strathclyde, told Express.co.uk: "This Government's agenda has just been torn to shreds. "The Government's given the go-ahead for HS2 but how much we're going to be able to borrow on top of what's going to go out for coronavirus? There must be question marks there.
"And of course, the other battle, the thing which have to face at some point, which they will have to make a decision about is about Brexit. With talks aimed at thrashing out a free trade deal resuming today, Sir John questioned whether enough progress could be made by June to allow the UK to leave as planned at the end of the transition period on December 31, saying: "There could be a very tough call there." He added: "Brexit potentially now becomes a source of division because obviously, Johnson's strength has been basically been that he went for the Leave camp, won an election, took out of his party all the people who were serious doubters about it and was in a very, very strong position. Back Express.co.uk's NHS Heroes campaign
Boris Johnson, looking poorly after he was discharged from hospital
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab is currently deputising for Boris Johnson
"The risk he faces is domestic agenda is, for the time being, at least, ripped up up. "So to that extent, he either is or is at least potentially weaker." Referring to fierce criticism of the Prime Minister in yesterday's Sunday Times, not least the suggestion he had missed five Cobra meetings, Sir John said: "The Sunday Times piece, I think, in a sense was trying to feed on a criticism that is often made of Johnson, which is that he's not a man for detail and that he tends to have a sunny disposition he's always wanting to talk things up. READ MORE: Not again: China imposes NEW coronavirus lockdown - fears grow
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The situation raises questions about the future of HS2, said Sir John
"These criticisms are quite difficult to manage because Johnson quite early on said 'we've got to defeat this virus and then we can get on with everything else'. "And actually this is why this exit strategy so difficult. Defeat is pretty probably not a word, at the moment which is likely to be in the lexicon and the absence of a great deal of luck about the sickness dying out in the summer position or medicine taking over. "And how he manages that can be quite difficult because this will not be about sunny uplands in the wake of us liberating ourselves from the European Union, it will be about difficult trade-offs between your grandad's health and your job." DON'T MISS
Kate Middleton and Prince William launch heartwarming campaign for Britons under lockdown [ARTICLE]
ITV's Robert Peston in heated row with Hancock over mask use - ‘Everyone else is wrong?’ [VIDEO]
Brazilian President Bolsanaro fires Health Minister in shock coronavirus clash [LATEST]
Brexit talks - spearheaded by David Frost and Michel Barnier - have restarted today
Sir John Curtice is Professor of Politics at the University of Strathclyde
Nevertheless, despite the criticism, Sir John suggested Mr Johnson would be keen to continue in his role, provided his health permitted him to so. He said: "This is somebody who clearly in a variety of ways wanted to change Britain. "This is a government that is having to use the power of the state in a way that has been inconceivable at least since the 1970s.
Today's coronavirus death toll
"I presume in the short run as because he managed to avoid going on a ventilator, that although still take him a while to recover. "Anybody who's ever had a serious part of the flu knows how long it could take forever. "But presumably, the expectation is that within a matter of weeks, he will be back to full health obviously, what the psychological impact on him is, who knows or having had, you know, having had what was a pretty serious brush.
Effective COVID-19 treatments are still some way off
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-04-20--Starmer dealt huge blow as Tories gain in poll despite new Labour leader

The first YouGov poll since Sir Keir succeeded Jeremy Corbyn as leader of the Labour Party has found Boris Johnson has extended his lead in the polls by one point .
The survey conducted between April 16-17 has put the Conservatives on 53 percent of the vote , with Labour trailing on 32 percent .
The previous YouGov poll on April 2 - when Mr Corbyn was still leader of the opposition - put the Conservatives on 52 percent with Labour on just 28 percent .
Sir Keir has managed to narrow the gap from a 24-point lead to just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ surge above 50 points .
The Liberal Democrats are polling on five percent , SNP four percent , and the Green Party three percent .
The former director of public prosecutions and shadow Brexit secretary was elected Labour leader on April 4 and inherits a party which suffered its worst general election defeat since 1935 .
A little over two weeks ago Sir Keir secured a landslide victory in the contest against rivals Rebecca Long-Bailey and Lisa Nandy .
The Labour membership elected Sir Keir at the first round with 56.2 percent of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ votes out of the 490,731 returned ballots .
Ms Long-Bailey came second with 135,218 votes ( 27.6 percent ) and Ms Nandy was last with 79,597 ( 16.2 percent ) .
In a sign Labour was moving away from the left , Sir Keir won more votes than Mr Corbyn , who in 2015 secured 251,417 of the 422,664 votes cast , but his predecessor won a higher vote share ( 59.5 percent ) .
The new Labour leader is yet to officially address parliament as the coronavirus lockdown enters its fourth week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab after criticising the Government ’ s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic .
He wrote on the Mail on Sunday : `` The Government was too slow to enter the lockdown .
READ MORE : Boris 's uphill Brexit battle as ‘ agenda torn to shreds ' by COVID-19 “ It has been too slow to increase the number of people being tested .
“ It has been too slow in getting NHS staff the critical equipment they need to keep them safe .
We need to make sure these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this week has exposed how the Government has been too slow to respond to the growing emergency in our social care services . ''
He also called for the Government to begin `` careful '' preparations to exit lockdown measures .
EU 'more desperate ' than UK for Brexit deal by December deadline [ VIDEO ] Boris told to IGNORE SNP 's plea for a two year Brexit extension [ POLL ] Barnier sends Boris fisheries warning – 'all areas ' must make progress [ INSIGHT ]

Keir Starmer praises key workers during coronavirus pandemic
The first YouGov poll since Sir Keir succeeded Jeremy Corbyn as leader of the Labour Party has found Boris Johnson has extended his lead in the polls by one point. The survey conducted between April 16-17 has put the Conservatives on 53 percent of the vote, with Labour trailing on 32 percent. The previous YouGov poll on April 2 - when Mr Corbyn was still leader of the opposition - put the Conservatives on 52 percent with Labour on just 28 percent.
Sir Keir has managed to narrow the gap from a 24-point lead to just 21-points – but the Tories continue to surge above 50 points. The Liberal Democrats are polling on five percent, SNP four percent, and the Green Party three percent. The former director of public prosecutions and shadow Brexit secretary was elected Labour leader on April 4 and inherits a party which suffered its worst general election defeat since 1935.
Sir Keir Starmer was elected Labour leader on April 4
Boris Johnson is polling at 53 percent with YouGov
A little over two weeks ago Sir Keir secured a landslide victory in the contest against rivals Rebecca Long-Bailey and Lisa Nandy. The Labour membership elected Sir Keir at the first round with 56.2 percent of the vote. Sir Keir won 275,780 votes out of the 490,731 returned ballots. Ms Long-Bailey came second with 135,218 votes (27.6 percent) and Ms Nandy was last with 79,597 (16.2 percent).
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Sir Keir Starmer served as Shadow Brexit Secretary under Jeremy Corbyn
In a sign Labour was moving away from the left, Sir Keir won more votes than Mr Corbyn, who in 2015 secured 251,417 of the 422,664 votes cast, but his predecessor won a higher vote share (59.5 percent). The new Labour leader is yet to officially address parliament as the coronavirus lockdown enters its fourth week. Today Sir Keir held talks with Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab after criticising the Government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. He wrote on the Mail on Sunday: "The Government was too slow to enter the lockdown. READ MORE: Boris's uphill Brexit battle as ‘agenda torn to shreds' by COVID-19
Sir Keir Starmer has criticised the Governments handling of Coronavirus
“It has been too slow to increase the number of people being tested. “It has been too slow in getting NHS staff the critical equipment they need to keep them safe. We need to make sure these mistakes are not repeated. "And this week has exposed how the Government has been too slow to respond to the growing emergency in our social care services." He also called for the Government to begin "careful" preparations to exit lockdown measures. DON'T MISS EU 'more desperate' than UK for Brexit deal by December deadline [VIDEO]
Boris told to IGNORE SNP's plea for a two year Brexit extension [POLL]
Barnier sends Boris fisheries warning – 'all areas' must make progress [INSIGHT]
Policies of the final three candidates who made it to the final ballot paper


thedailyexpress--2020-04-20--Boris told to IGNORE SNP's plea for a two year Brexit extension - 'We must leave NOW!'

Britain officially left the European Union on January 31 and talks to strike a trade deal with the EU before the December 31 deadline have hit a stumbling block following the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic .
SNP Constitution Secretary Mike Russell has called on the Westminster Government to request a two year delay before June 30 date for an extension expires , as he claims Scotland could not afford the “ double hit ” of Brexit and the coronavirus pandemic .
The pleas have fallen onto deaf-ears , after a poll of more than 12,000 Express.co.uk readers found nine-in-ten believe the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ period .
The survey conducted on Monday , April 20 between 11.46am and 7pm asked 12,046 readers a yes or no question : “ Should Boris Johnson delay Brexit by two years because of the coronavirus pandemic ?
” A huge 96 percent ( 11,554 ) of people did not want a delay and voted no .
Just four percent ( 492 ) of those surveyed thought there should be more time to negotiate with the EU and voted yes .
A don ’ t know option was not offered to those surveyed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out at the possibility of yet another Brexit delay .
One user said : “ We voted to LEAVE .
Ever since then we are being asked countless times about leave/remain/extension etc ... We should have left the moment we voted to leave.
” A second reader said : “ I wouldn ’ t delay Brexit by two minutes never mind two years.
” A third user said : “ No way .
We leave with no deal or a fair deal and on schedule.
” A fourth reader wrote : “ We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Mr Russell , a key political ally of First Minister Nicola Sturgeon , called for an urgent meeting with Brexit negotiators and urged Britain to maintain a “ close as possible ” relationship with the bloc during the coronavirus crisis .
He said : “ Instead of its reckless decision to pursue a hard Brexit in the middle of this unprecedented crisis , the UK Government should today be asking the EU for the maximum two-year extension to the transition period .
“ The benefits of co-ordinated European action have never been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keep the UK as close as possible to the EU and provide an opportunity to rethink the future relationship .
“ The UK Government is pressing ahead with negotiations without properly involving the Scottish Government or taking account of our views .
Brexit is the LAW !
Downing Street REJECTS plea for talks extension [ INSIGHT ] Angela Merkel snub : Insider reveals Germany 's anger with 'broken ' EU [ ANALYSIS ] ‘ Impossible ’ Brexit will happen this year warns Merkel ally [ VIDEO ] “ The Scottish economy can not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the growing likelihood of a no deal or at best a hard Brexit deal in less than nine months ’ time .
“ The voices of all four UK nations must be heard and I am therefore calling for an urgent meeting of the Joint Ministerial Committee ( European Negotiations ) , which has the task of overseeing negotiations .
“ Clearly if it does not meet , it can not oversee.
” The Prime Minister has always insisted the UK would honour the current negotiating timetable agreed within the Withdrawal Agreement and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extension .

Brexit: EU ‘desperately need deal’ with UK says Galloway
Britain officially left the European Union on January 31 and talks to strike a trade deal with the EU before the December 31 deadline have hit a stumbling block following the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic. SNP Constitution Secretary Mike Russell has called on the Westminster Government to request a two year delay before June 30 date for an extension expires, as he claims Scotland could not afford the “double hit” of Brexit and the coronavirus pandemic.
The pleas have fallen onto deaf-ears, after a poll of more than 12,000 Express.co.uk readers found nine-in-ten believe the UK should not extend the Brexit transition period. The survey conducted on Monday, April 20 between 11.46am and 7pm asked 12,046 readers a yes or no question: “Should Boris Johnson delay Brexit by two years because of the coronavirus pandemic?” A huge 96 percent (11,554) of people did not want a delay and voted no.
A poll has called on Boris Johnson to ignore SNP pleas for a Brexit extension
Mike Russell has called on the Westminster Government to request a two year delay
Just four percent (492) of those surveyed thought there should be more time to negotiate with the EU and voted yes. A don’t know option was not offered to those surveyed. A number of furious Brexiteers hit out at the possibility of yet another Brexit delay. One user said: “We voted to LEAVE. Ever since then we are being asked countless times about leave/remain/extension etc... We should have left the moment we voted to leave.”
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Boris Johnson has insisted the UK will not ask the EU for a delay to the timetable
A second reader said: “I wouldn’t delay Brexit by two minutes never mind two years.” A third user said: “No way. We leave with no deal or a fair deal and on schedule.” A fourth reader wrote: “We MUST leave - now more than ever.” Mr Russell, a key political ally of First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, called for an urgent meeting with Brexit negotiators and urged Britain to maintain a “close as possible” relationship with the bloc during the coronavirus crisis. READ MORE: Boris Johnson’s major hint on UK extending Brexit transition exposed
He said: “Instead of its reckless decision to pursue a hard Brexit in the middle of this unprecedented crisis, the UK Government should today be asking the EU for the maximum two-year extension to the transition period. “The benefits of co-ordinated European action have never been clearer. "An extended transition will keep the UK as close as possible to the EU and provide an opportunity to rethink the future relationship. “The UK Government is pressing ahead with negotiations without properly involving the Scottish Government or taking account of our views. DON'T MISS Brexit is the LAW! Downing Street REJECTS plea for talks extension [INSIGHT]
Angela Merkel snub: Insider reveals Germany's anger with 'broken' EU [ANALYSIS]
‘Impossible’ Brexit will happen this year warns Merkel ally [VIDEO]
“The Scottish economy cannot afford the double hit of COVID-19 and the growing likelihood of a no deal or at best a hard Brexit deal in less than nine months’ time. “The voices of all four UK nations must be heard and I am therefore calling for an urgent meeting of the Joint Ministerial Committee (European Negotiations), which has the task of overseeing negotiations. “Clearly if it does not meet, it cannot oversee.” The Prime Minister has always insisted the UK would honour the current negotiating timetable agreed within the Withdrawal Agreement and would not ask the EU for an extension.
A timeline of Brexit negotiations


thedailyexpress--2020-04-20--Coronavirus UK: Ongoing restrictions could hurt NHS, warns MP 'We need lockdown-lite'

Mr Penrose outlined his views yesterday in a op-ed written exclusively for Express.co.uk , at the end of a week in which Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab , currently deputising for Prime Minister Boris Johnson , announced the lockdown was being extended until May 7 at the earliest .
The draconian measures were introduced on March 23 in a bid to slow down the rate of COVID-19 infections and ease the pressure on the health service .
The most recent Government update , published today , said 124,743 people have so far tested positive for the disease .
Of those hospitalised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confirmed , 16,509 have died .
Mr Penrose , Tory MP for Weston-super-Mare told Express.co.uk : `` If we wait too long , too many jobs will be lost and too many firms will go bust .
`` We won ’ t have protected our NHS if the economy is too damaged to pay for it once this is all over . ''
He asked : `` Why are we willing to wait outside supermarkets , and to keep our distance once we ’ re inside , but not garden centres or clothes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Mr Penrose added : `` Dominic Raab is right ; if we leave lockdown too quickly , we ’ re putting lives at risk .
`` But we can ’ t leave too slowly either , because domestic violence , mental health and loneliness are all getting worse , jobs are being lost and firms are going bust .
JUST IN : We ca n't wait until Christmas – we need to find a way out of lockdown '' We ’ re going to need ‘ lockdown-lite ’ rules that make life @ @ @ @ @ @ @ second wave of infections . ''
He said : `` We may be able to relax the rules in small steps .
`` Once there are enough tests , football matches and concerts could restart if the players and crew are all clear , even if spectators still have to watch on screens .
DO N'T MISS Why are care home deaths not included in coronavirus death toll ?
[ EXPLAINED ] Distraught daughter tells of coronavirus care home heartbreak [ LATEST ] Matt Hancock vows to ramp up coronavirus testing in care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new ‘ lockdown-lite ’ rules that tell us how to go back to work safely , and we need them soon .
`` Tell us what we can or can ’ t do for the next stage of ‘ lockdown-lite ’ , and we ’ ll get on with it . ''
Speaking on Thursday , Mr Raab cited “ very clear advice ” from Sage , the expert scientific committee advising the government , indicating any immediate lifting of restrictions would “ substantially increase the number of deaths ” .
Stressing the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` starting to pay off '' , he added : `` Based on this advice the government has decided the measures must remain in place for at least the next three weeks .
He added : `` We 've come too far , we 've lost too many loved ones to ease up now , especially when we 're beginning to see that our efforts are starting to pay off .
“ There is light at the end of the tunnel but we are now at both a delicate and a dangerous stage @ @ @ @

Lockdown could cause pubs to close ‘for good’ says expert
Mr Penrose outlined his views yesterday in a op-ed written exclusively for Express.co.uk, at the end of a week in which Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, currently deputising for Prime Minister Boris Johnson, announced the lockdown was being extended until May 7 at the earliest. The draconian measures were introduced on March 23 in a bid to slow down the rate of COVID-19 infections and ease the pressure on the health service. The most recent Government update, published today, said 124,743 people have so far tested positive for the disease.
Of those hospitalised in the UK in whom COVID-19 was confirmed, 16,509 have died. Mr Penrose, Tory MP for Weston-super-Mare told Express.co.uk: "If we wait too long, too many jobs will be lost and too many firms will go bust. "We won’t have protected our NHS if the economy is too damaged to pay for it once this is all over." Back Express.co.uk's NHS Heroes campaign
John Penrose has said Britain must find a way out of lockdown
The NHS is taking the strain of the pandemic
He asked: "Why are we willing to wait outside supermarkets, and to keep our distance once we’re inside, but not garden centres or clothes shops too?" Addressing the extension, Mr Penrose added: "Dominic Raab is right; if we leave lockdown too quickly, we’re putting lives at risk. "But we can’t leave too slowly either, because domestic violence, mental health and loneliness are all getting worse, jobs are being lost and firms are going bust. JUST IN: We can't wait until Christmas – we need to find a way out of lockdown
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A deserted Heathrow Airport
Regents Park was crowded recently - despite the lockdown measures
Police checks in midst of the lockdown
"We need new ‘lockdown-lite’ rules that tell us how to go back to work safely, and we need them soon. "Tell us what we can or can’t do for the next stage of ‘lockdown-lite’, and we’ll get on with it." Speaking on Thursday, Mr Raab cited “very clear advice” from Sage, the expert scientific committee advising the government, indicating any immediate lifting of restrictions would “substantially increase the number of deaths”.
Coronavirus lockdown explained
Stressing the public's willingness to stay home was "starting to pay off", he added: "Based on this advice the government has decided the measures must remain in place for at least the next three weeks. He added: "We've come too far, we've lost too many loved ones to ease up now, especially when we're beginning to see that our efforts are starting to pay off. “There is light at the end of the tunnel but we are now at both a delicate and a dangerous stage in this pandemic.
An eerily quiet Westminster Bridge
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thedailyexpress--2020-04-20--Sir John Curtice warns of deep divisions as cabinet split over coronavirus exit strategy

And Professor Tony Travers , director of LSE London , suggested broadly speaking ministers were split into two camps - doves , such as health secretary Matt Hancock , who were reluctant to see any relaxation in restrictions for fear of triggering a second wave of infections , and hawks , such as Mr Sunak and Mr Gove , who fear the collateral damage to the economy .
Mr Johnson , who is still recovering after his spell in intensive care triggered by a severe case of COVID-19 , is reportedly in the former camp , and was today reported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conversation with Dominic Raab , the man deputising for him , on Friday .
Sir John , Professor of Politics at the University of Strathclyde , told Express.co.uk : `` Obviously I 'm not sitting in 10 Downing Street but this is what we have been told .
`` Put it like this : presumably , somebody or other briefed the press , because it was in numerous newspapers , about the fact that we might open the schools on May 11 , and that there might be three or four phases to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you do that , and then you spend the press conference on Sunday denying it somebody somewhere has not got the communications quite straight . ''
Sir John said : `` Unless this was a deliberate ploy to try and take the pressure away from the fact that we 're always under pressure about gowns .
`` But , obviously , the fact that there was that briefing and then it gets unbriefed everywhere as it were , shall we say is at least consistent with the claim that different bits of government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Only this morning the press have been briefed that the Prime Minister is kind of in the Hancock camp . ''
All the evidence indicated there was likely to be an ongoing argument about the Government 's lockdown exit strategy , Sir John said , suggesting such in the circumstances such a dispute was probably inevitable .
READ MORE : Not again : China imposes NEW coronavirus lockdown - fears grow He added : `` The truth is that there are going to be very , very difficult judgments to be made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the prevalence is going down .
`` Unless you think that by playing it long , the bloody thing actually dies out during the summer .
`` But it 's three-quarters around the world and even if you somehow get rid of it , unless you keep the borders closed , it is very difficult to stop . ''
DO N'T MISS Universal Credit payments can only be paid into these three accounts [ REVEALED ] Universal Credit : Fears payment wait time will not be shortened [ WARNING ] Universal Credit payment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on time [ CLAIM ] Prof Travers told Express.co.uk : `` There is clearly an argument is going on inside government between sort of doves and hawks , depending on who 's on which side .
`` Between those who think the only thing that really matters , clearly Matt Hancock and other health related ministers and the Prime Minister , apparently want to eradicate the second wave .
`` Others , not surprisingly including the chancellor , and perhaps Michael Gove , want to come out of lockdown earlier because of they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the economic damage and the health damage on the economy 's side - the Sweden model . ''
Prof Travers said Mr Johnson 's personal experience would undoubtedly be influencing his thinking on the issue .
He said : `` I think that it is easy to not to recognise and I can be guilty of this myself the easiest - the profound importance of the fact that you know , our head of government himself suffered not just a bout of coronavirus , but clearly a very serious bout , to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a way that say Matt Hancock did n't need to .
`` So that is an important element in all of this .

Matt Hancock outlines UK’s coronavirus ‘battle plan’
Sir John, Professor of Politics at the University of Strathclyde, suggested broadly speaking ministers were split into two camps - doves, such as health secretary Matt Hancock, who were reluctant to see any relaxation in restrictions for fear of triggering a second wave of infections, and hawks, such as Mr Sunak and Mr Gove, who fear the collateral damage to the economy. Mr Johnson, who is still recovering after his spell in intensive care triggered by a severe case of COVID-19, is reportedly in the former camp, and was today reported to have voiced his concerns during a conversation with Dominic Raab, the man deputising for him, on Friday. He told Express.co.uk: "Obviously I'm not sitting in 10 Downing Street but this is what we have been told.
"Put it like this: presumably, somebody or other briefed the press, because it was in numerous newspapers, about the fact that we might open the schools on May 11, and that there might be three or four phases to the lockdown being eased. "If you do that, and then you spend the press conference on Sunday denying it somebody somewhere has not got the communications quite straight." Sir John said: "Unless this was a deliberate ploy to try and take the pressure away from the fact that we're always under pressure about gowns. Back Express.co.uk's NHS Heroes campaign
Boris Johnson, Michael Gove, Rishi Sunak and Matt Hancock
Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak prepare to clap for carers in Downing Street
Only this morning the press have been briefed that the Prime Minister is kind of in the Hancock camp Sir John Curtice
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"But, obviously, the fact that there was that briefing and then it gets unbriefed everywhere as it were, shall we say is at least consistent with the claim that different bits of government maybe have a somewhat different perspective. "Only this morning the press have been briefed that the Prime Minister is kind of in the Hancock camp." All the evidence indicated there was likely to be an ongoing argument about the Government's lockdown exit strategy, Sir John said, suggesting such in the circumstances such a dispute was probably inevitable. READ MORE: Not again: China imposes NEW coronavirus lockdown - fears grow
Prime Minister Boris Johnson
Health Secretary Matt Hancock is thought to be opposed to any rapid lifting of the lockdown
A nurse at a drive-in testing centre
Prof Travers told Express.co.uk: "There is clearly an argument is going on inside government between sort of doves and hawks, depending on who's on which side. "Between those who think the only thing that really matters, clearly Matt Hancock and other health related ministers and the Prime Minister, apparently want to eradicate the second wave. "Others, not surprisingly including the chancellor, and perhaps Michael Gove, want to come out of lockdown earlier because of they're prepared to make the trade-off between the economic damage and the health damage on the economy's side - the Sweden model."
Coronavirus map live
Prof Travers said Mr Johnson's personal experience would undoubtedly be influencing his thinking on the issue. He said: "I think that it is easy to not to recognise and I can be guilty of this myself the easiest - the profound importance of the fact that you know, our head of government himself suffered not just a bout of coronavirus, but clearly a very serious bout, to the point that he's had to convalesce in a way that say Matt Hancock didn't need to. "So that is an important element in all of this.
NHS staff wearing PPE
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thedailyexpress--2020-04-20--Brexit is the LAW! Downing Street REJECTS plea for talks extension - Sturgeon skewered

Britain ’ s chief negotiator David Frost and EU counterpart Michel Barnier resumed discussions by video call as they raced to strike an agreement before the December 31 deadline .
Scotland ’ s government seized on the meeting to call for the transition to be extended by two years to take account of the coronavirus crisis .
But No 10 insisted Holyrood had been consulted all the way through the Brexit process and said it was a “ matter of UK law ” that current arrangements terminate at the end of the year .
“ The Prime Minister has made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ changing that.
” Mr Frost said last week that Britain will not ask to extend the transition and “ will say no ” if the EU asks for a delay because it would create more uncertainty and leave the UK bound by Brussels at “ a time when we need to control our own affairs ” .
Future trade relations in goods and services will dominate negotiations every day but agreeing new terms on fishing rights is also high on the agenda .
Officials will also look at how arrangements on law enforcement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Downing Street said it expects the latest round of Brexit negotiations to be `` constructive '' .
Top level talks will be held in June to allow leaders to decide if enough progress has been made or if the UK is on course to leave on world trade rules instead .
The spokesman said : `` This week we expect further constructive talks with the aim of making progress ahead of June , building on the talks to date which have identified the major areas where we agree and disagree.
” The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ May 11 .
Britain is pushing for a comprehensive free trade agreements to allow goods to be traded without tariffs or restrictions .
Fishing is expected to be a flashpoint in the talks with Brussels calling for the same access for many years while the government wants annual negotiations to decide on rights .
READ MORE : Brexit MUST be delayed for two years - shock demand No 10 has always insisted ministers are ready to walk away with a loose trading arrangement if Brussels refuses to compromise in the talks .
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ videophone briefly last week to get the talks back on track after they were hit by Covid-19 .
Mr Barnier announced he was diagnosed with the virus on March 19 and Mr Frost self-isolated after showing symptoms of the illness but both have now recovered .
DO N'T MISS Nicola Sturgeon told to 'move on ' from independence dream [ REACTION ] Brexit POLL : After SNP 's demands , should Boris delay Brexit ?
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[ ARCHIVE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Nicola Sturgeon 's constitutional secretary Mike Russell saying Scotland could not afford the `` double hit '' of coroanvirus and Brexit .
Mr Russell said : “ The Scottish economy can not afford the double hit of Covid-19 and the growing likelihood of a no-deal or at best a hard Brexit deal in less than nine months ’ time .
“ The voices of all four UK nations must be heard and I am therefore calling for an urgent meeting of the Joint Ministerial Committee ( European Negotiations ) , which has the @ @ @ @ @

Brexit: State of negotiations is an ’EU nightmare’ says expert
Britain’s chief negotiator David Frost and EU counterpart Michel Barnier resumed discussions by video call as they raced to strike an agreement before the December 31 deadline. Scotland’s government seized on the meeting to call for the transition to be extended by two years to take account of the coronavirus crisis. But No 10 insisted Holyrood had been consulted all the way through the Brexit process and said it was a “matter of UK law” that current arrangements terminate at the end of the year.
“The transition period ends on December 31,” Boris Johnson’s spokesman said. “The Prime Minister has made it clear he has no intention of changing that.” Mr Frost said last week that Britain will not ask to extend the transition and “will say no” if the EU asks for a delay because it would create more uncertainty and leave the UK bound by Brussels at “a time when we need to control our own affairs”. Future trade relations in goods and services will dominate negotiations every day but agreeing new terms on fishing rights is also high on the agenda.
Brexit delay: Nicola Sturgeon's minister has called for an extension to Brexit
Brexit talks: David Frost was speaking to Michel Barnier today
Officials will also look at how arrangements on law enforcement, energy and social security should operate. Downing Street said it expects the latest round of Brexit negotiations to be "constructive". Top level talks will be held in June to allow leaders to decide if enough progress has been made or if the UK is on course to leave on world trade rules instead. The spokesman said: "This week we expect further constructive talks with the aim of making progress ahead of June, building on the talks to date which have identified the major areas where we agree and disagree.”
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Nicola Sturgeon has called for a two-year extension to Brexit
The next round of negotiations will begin on May 11. Britain is pushing for a comprehensive free trade agreements to allow goods to be traded without tariffs or restrictions. Fishing is expected to be a flashpoint in the talks with Brussels calling for the same access for many years while the government wants annual negotiations to decide on rights. READ MORE: Brexit MUST be delayed for two years - shock demand
Boris Johnson's spokesman said the transition period ends this year
The transition period ends on December 31 Boris Johnson's spokesman
No 10 has always insisted ministers are ready to walk away with a loose trading arrangement if Brussels refuses to compromise in the talks. Mr Frost and counterpart Mr Barnier spoke by videophone briefly last week to get the talks back on track after they were hit by Covid-19. Mr Barnier announced he was diagnosed with the virus on March 19 and Mr Frost self-isolated after showing symptoms of the illness but both have now recovered. DON'T MISS
Nicola Sturgeon told to 'move on' from independence dream [REACTION]
Brexit POLL: After SNP's demands, should Boris delay Brexit? [VOTE]
Keir Starmer's horror Brexit claim exposed: 'Terrorists will rejoice!' [ARCHIVE]
Economic loss of a hard Brexit
The comments from Number 10 follow Nicola Sturgeon's constitutional secretary Mike Russell saying Scotland could not afford the "double hit" of coroanvirus and Brexit. Mr Russell said: “The Scottish economy cannot afford the double hit of Covid-19 and the growing likelihood of a no-deal or at best a hard Brexit deal in less than nine months’ time. “The voices of all four UK nations must be heard and I am therefore calling for an urgent meeting of the Joint Ministerial Committee (European Negotiations), which has the task of overseeing negotiations.
EU's Michel Barnier is negotiating a deal with UK now
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thedailyexpress--2020-04-20--EU 'could fall apart' after Merkel's ally makes furious coronavirus claim over Italy

Mr Merz , who is considered most likely to succeed German Chancellor Angela Merkel .
He made the serious allegations @ @ @ @ @ on Twitter on Sunday sparking a backlash .
Mr Merz said Italy , hard hit @ @ @ @ @ wanted to use the pandemic for its own purposes .
‘ It ’ s quite @ @ @ @ @ fear over Aldi and M & S exposed Nicola Sturgeon told to 'move on ' @ @ @ @ @ so far not wanted to accept aid provided by the EU , he wrote in @ @ @ @ @ said : `` That shows that Italy has no acute need for financing .
`` @ @ @ @ @ financing options for its state budget in the slipstream of coronavirus . ''
The comments @ @ @ @ @ in Germany .
JUST IN : Brexiteer FURY as Remainer demands UK fund EU 's @ @ @

Brexit: Mike Graham and Lord Adonis clash on UK’s ‘duty’ to EU
Mr Merz, who is considered most likely to succeed German Chancellor Angela Merkel. He made the serious allegations against Giuseppe Conte's government on Twitter on Sunday sparking a backlash. Mr Merz said Italy, hard hit by the coronavirus crisis, wanted to use the pandemic for its own purposes. At this difficult time for frontline doctors and nurses, sign up here to show your support now to our brave NHS Heroes.
Italy has so far not wanted to accept aid provided by the EU, he wrote in a tweet. The tweet said: "That shows that Italy has no acute need for financing. "It tries to find unlimited financing options for its state budget in the slipstream of coronavirus." The comments caused outrage in Italy and in Germany. JUST IN: Brexiteer FURY as Remainer demands UK fund EU's huge pandemic bailout
Conte, Merkel and Von Der Leyen
Angela Merkle with Xi Jinping
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Italy has been seriously affected by coronavirus
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thedailyexpress--2020-04-20--Rishi Sunak wife: Who is Rishi Sunak’s wife?

Mr Sunak has been in his current job as Chancellor since February .
Before this , he served as Chief @ @ @ @ @ Sajid Javid was Chancellor between July 2019 and February 2020 .
He has also served @ @ @ @ @ Yorkshire , since the 2015 General Election .
Mr Sunak , 39 , married Akshata @ @ @ @ @ two-day wedding in Bangalore .
The pair met each other at Stanford University in the @ @ @ @ @ fashion firm Akshata Designs , as well as being a director of a venture capital @ @ @ @ @ her father in 2010 .
Her father is Narayana Murthy , an Indian billionaire and @ @ @ @ @ India , who gained his fortune by co-founding IT firm Infosys .
The Times of @ @ @ @ @ “ one of India ’ s top entrepreneurs ” .
READ MORE : Boris Johnson @ @ @ @ @ 10 this week to lead fight against coronavirus

Rishi Sunak set to announce 'wage top-up scheme' says expert
Rishi Sunak has been in his current job as Chancellor since February. Before this, he served as Chief Secretary to the Treasury when Sajid Javid was Chancellor between July 2019 and February 2020. He has also served as MP for Richmond, Yorkshire, since the 2015 General Election.
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Who is Rishi Sunak’s wife? Mr Sunak, 39, married Akshata Murthy in 2009 in a two-day wedding in Bangalore. The pair met each other at Stanford University in the USA. Ms Murthy runs fashion firm Akshata Designs, as well as being a director of a venture capital company which was founded by her father in 2010. Her father is Narayana Murthy, an Indian billionaire and the sixth richest man in India, who gained his fortune by co-founding IT firm Infosys. The Times of India describes her father as “one of India’s top entrepreneurs”. READ MORE: What time is Rishi Sunak Winter Economy announcement today?
Rishi Sunak is the Chancellor of the Exchequer
Rishi Sunak and his wife, Akshata Murthy
READ MORE Coronavirus new deal – Rishi Sunak to spend billions on rescue package Ms Murthy used to work in the world of finance and marketing, before progressing to fashion. Her fashion designs incorporate artists living in isolated villages in India. Ms Murthy is said to have always loved clothes since she was young – something which shocked her “no-nonsense engineer mother”. She told Vogue India in 2011: “I’m about the story behind a particular garment, its authenticity, craftsmanship and protecting a rich heritage.”
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Rishi, Akshata and their daughters Krishna and Anoushka
READ MORE Furlough extension: Is furlough being extended? Ms Murthy was quoted saying: “I believe we live in a materialistic society, and over the last few decades it has become easier to sell products to a wide audience, given the advent of globalisation.” The Times reported in February 2020 that the entrepreneur has a stake in her father’s IT company which is reportedly worth £185million. The couple are understood to own “at least four properties”, according to the newspaper, which includes a five-bedroom mews house in Kensington – valued at around £7million. Richi’s website states: “I have been lucky to live, study and work internationally.
Her father, Narayana Murthy is an Indian billionaire and the 6th richest man in India
“I met my wife, Akshata, in California where we lived for a number of years before returning home. We have two daughters, Krishna and Anoushka, who keep us busy and entertained.” The Chancellor’s ‘about me’ section goes on to read: “I grew up watching my parents serve our local community with dedication. “My dad was an NHS family GP and my mum ran her own local chemist shop. I wanted to make the same positive difference to people as their MP. “I have been fortunate to enjoy a successful business career. I co-founded a large investment firm, working with companies from Silicon Valley to Bangalore.


thedailyexpress--2020-04-21--Starmer's nightmare: Labour Party faces financial RUIN as huge legal challenge to launch