thedailyexpress--2020-05-29--Boris Johnson announces new lockdown rules allowing six people to gather from Monday

The Prime Minister announced that outdoor gatherings of up to six people will be permitted from Monday as long as social distancing rules are still observed .
Barbecues and garden parties got the green light , as well as get-togethers in parks , beaches and other outdoor venues .
And grandparents will finally be able to see their grandchildren again , although shielding advice for the most vulnerable to coronavirus remains in force .
The PM said : `` I know that for many this will be a long-awaited and joyful moment . ''
Mr Johnson also confirmed that primary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the children of non-key workers from Monday .
Secondaries will follow a fortnight later .
NHS dentists will be encouraged to reopen from June 8 .
Outdoor markets and car showrooms have been permitted to start trading on Monday with other non-essential shops reopening from the middle of the month .
Mr Johnson announced the loosening of the lockdown at the daily Downing Street briefing and revealed Covid-19 had claimed 377 more lives .
The tragic total stands at 37,837 .
He said : `` I know the toll that lockdown has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been unable to see each other .
`` So from Monday we will allow up to six people to meet outside , provided those from different households continue strictly to observe social distancing rules by staying two metres apart .
`` These changes mean friends and family can start to meet their loved ones , perhaps seeing both parents at once , or both grandparents at once . ''
He said the `` hard work and sacrifice '' of the British people meant the Government 's five tests for easing the lockdown had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move to a new phase .
The NHS is coping with the outbreak , the peak of deaths has passed and the rate of new infections is decreasing .
Progress is also being made in the effort to supply medical and care home staff with personal protective equipment .
Finally , ministers and officials are confident a partial easing of the lockdown will not risk a second peak of the disease that could overwhelm the NHS .
Insisting the Government would remain vigilant , the PM said : `` I can not and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we have made together , and so the changes we are making are limited and cautious .
`` It is thanks to the caution we have shown so far that all five tests are being met .
`` That is not my achievement or the Government 's achievement .
`` It is your achievement , only possible thanks to your resolve and dedication to our national purpose to overcome this virus .
So the result is we can move forward with adjusting the lockdown in England on Monday . ''
Giving the green @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said : `` We do want people to be able to see their friends and family .
`` We do want people to be able to see two grandparents at once - but it 's got to be socially distanced .
`` It 's got to be a maximum of six people and we do n't want people to stay overnight .
We do n't want people to go to other households and stay there .
We are not at that stage .
`` There could be meetings of families in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ barbecue providing you did it in a socially distanced way , provided everybody washes their hands , provided everybody exercises common sense .
`` This is a limited step forward .
We hope people will take advantage of it and enjoy the opportunity to see friends and family a bit more . ''
Mr Johnson also warned pockets of new infections are likely , which will mean restrictions are reintroduced locally .
He said : `` There will be further local outbreaks .
So we will monitor carefully , we will put on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ necessary , we will reimpose measures . ''
The PM said many extremely vulnerable people will have to remain at home despite the latest easing .
He added : `` At this stage , I am afraid that those who have been asked to shield themselves should continue to do so .
`` I want to say to those extremely clinically vulnerable people who are being shielded that I do understand how difficult this has been for you especially .
`` And I want to thank you for all the efforts you have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the NHS to cope .
We are looking carefully at how we can make your life easier , and how we can better support you , and we want to say more on that soon . ''
Chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said there were still 54,000 new infections a week .
He added : `` That is not a low number .
That means there is not a lot of room to do things and things need to be done cautiously . ''
Outdoor markets will be back in business from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social distancing is easier to enforce than in other areas of retail which are more enclosed .
Primary schools will open on Monday for year one and year six pupils and nurseries can also restart .
Secondary schools will begin to provide `` some face to face contact time '' for years 10 and 12 from June 15 .

Boris Johnson announces changes to lockdown guidelines
The Prime Minister announced that outdoor gatherings of up to six people will be permitted from Monday as long as social distancing rules are still observed. Barbecues and garden parties got the green light, as well as get-togethers in parks, beaches and other outdoor venues. And grandparents will finally be able to see their grandchildren again, although shielding advice for the most vulnerable to coronavirus remains in force.
The PM said: "I know that for many this will be a long-awaited and joyful moment." Mr Johnson also confirmed that primary schools and nurseries will start some classes for the children of non-key workers from Monday. Secondaries will follow a fortnight later. NHS dentists will be encouraged to reopen from June 8. Outdoor markets and car showrooms have been permitted to start trading on Monday with other non-essential shops reopening from the middle of the month. Mr Johnson announced the loosening of the lockdown at the daily Downing Street briefing and revealed Covid-19 had claimed 377 more lives. The tragic total stands at 37,837. He said: "I know the toll that lockdown has taken on families and friends who have been unable to see each other. "So from Monday we will allow up to six people to meet outside, provided those from different households continue strictly to observe social distancing rules by staying two metres apart. "These changes mean friends and family can start to meet their loved ones, perhaps seeing both parents at once, or both grandparents at once." He said the "hard work and sacrifice" of the British people meant the Government's five tests for easing the lockdown had been met, allowing the country to move to a new phase.
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson
The NHS is coping with the outbreak, the peak of deaths has passed and the rate of new infections is decreasing. Progress is also being made in the effort to supply medical and care home staff with personal protective equipment. Finally, ministers and officials are confident a partial easing of the lockdown will not risk a second peak of the disease that could overwhelm the NHS. Insisting the Government would remain vigilant, the PM said: "I cannot and will not throw away all the gains we have made together, and so the changes we are making are limited and cautious. "It is thanks to the caution we have shown so far that all five tests are being met. "That is not my achievement or the Government's achievement. "It is your achievement, only possible thanks to your resolve and dedication to our national purpose to overcome this virus. So the result is we can move forward with adjusting the lockdown in England on Monday."
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Giving the green light to barbecues and garden parties, he said: "We do want people to be able to see their friends and family. "We do want people to be able to see two grandparents at once - but it's got to be socially distanced. "It's got to be a maximum of six people and we don't want people to stay overnight. We don't want people to go to other households and stay there. We are not at that stage. "There could be meetings of families in a garden, you could even have a barbecue providing you did it in a socially distanced way, provided everybody washes their hands, provided everybody exercises common sense. "This is a limited step forward. We hope people will take advantage of it and enjoy the opportunity to see friends and family a bit more." Mr Johnson also warned pockets of new infections are likely, which will mean restrictions are reintroduced locally. He said: "There will be further local outbreaks. So we will monitor carefully, we will put on the brakes as required and, where necessary, we will reimpose measures." The PM said many extremely vulnerable people will have to remain at home despite the latest easing. He added: "At this stage, I am afraid that those who have been asked to shield themselves should continue to do so.
Chief Scientific Adviser Sir Patrick Vallance
"I want to say to those extremely clinically vulnerable people who are being shielded that I do understand how difficult this has been for you especially. "And I want to thank you for all the efforts you have gone to because your actions have helped the NHS to cope. We are looking carefully at how we can make your life easier, and how we can better support you, and we want to say more on that soon." Chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said there were still 54,000 new infections a week. He added: "That is not a low number. That means there is not a lot of room to do things and things need to be done cautiously." MARKETS Outdoor markets will be back in business from Monday as well as car showrooms because social distancing is easier to enforce than in other areas of retail which are more enclosed. SCHOOLS Primary schools will open on Monday for year one and year six pupils and nurseries can also restart. Secondary schools will begin to provide "some face to face contact time" for years 10 and 12 from June 15.
Primary schools will open on Monday for year one and year six pupils and nurseries can also restart


thedailyexpress--2020-05-29--Brexit latest: What's going on with Brexit now? All the latest news and updates

Brexit day was celebrated around the country on January 31 , but there is still a lot of talk and negotiation to come .
Coronavirus has dominated the news agenda since the outbreak hit the UK , but that does not mean Brexit has been stopped in its tracks .
But what exactly is happening with Brexit ?
The UK formally left the European Union on January 31 bringing an end to Britain ’ s 47-year membership .
The UK had by that date agreed its terms for its departure from the bloc , but now both sides need to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relationship will look like .
These terms and conditions will need to be worked out during the transition period which is due to end on December 31 , 2020 .
During this 11-month period , the trading relationship between the UK and EU countries will remain the same .
READ MORE : We ’ re out !
Britain rejects EU offer of two-year Brexit extension What areas need to be negotiated during the transition period ?
The transition period was established to enable both the UK and EU an opportunity to agree a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK formally left the EU , it agreed to leave the single market and customs union at the end of the transition period .
Before this time , the UK and EU will want to establish a free trade agreement which will allow gods to move around the EU without checks or extra charges .
If a new one can not be agreed , the UK faces the prospect of leaving with no deal in place meaning tariffs will be imposed on UK goods moving to the EU and other barriers to trade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be agreed in terms of the future UK-EU relationship including : In a letter to the EU ’ s chief negotiator Michel Barnier , Mr Frost said the EU ’ s proposed deal “ contains novel and unbalanced proposals which would bind this country to EU law or standards '' .
The letter sent on Tuesday reads : “ Overall , at this moment in negotiations , what is on offer is not a fair free trade relationship between close economic partners , but a relatively low-quality trade agreement coming with unprecedented EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ It does not have to be like this .
“ I remain convinced that it would be very straightforward for us to agree a modern and high-quality FTA and other separate agreements , like those you have agreed with other close partners around the world , and that we could do so quickly .
“ I do hope that in the weeks to come the EU will think again about its proposals in a way that will enable us to then find a rapid and constructive alternative way forward.
” In response @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believe the “ exchange of letters regarding the substance of the negotiations is necessarily the best way to discuss on substantial points '' .
He wrote : “ It can not be a substitute for serious engagement and detailed negotiations and , in particular , I would not like the tone that you have taken to impact the mutual trust and constructive attitude that is essential between us.
” Mr Barnier added the UK “ can not expect high-quality access to the EU Single Market if it is not prepared to accept guarantees @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fair.
” He also id there needs to be “ tangible and parallel progress ” during negotiations including “ engagement on and commitments to a level playing field and appropriate governance mechanisms , as well as to balanced , sustainable and long-term arrangements on fisheries .
”

Brexit: Michael Gove outlines 'stand-off' with EU over fisheries
Brexit day was celebrated around the country on January 31, but there is still a lot of talk and negotiation to come. Coronavirus has dominated the news agenda since the outbreak hit the UK, but that does not mean Brexit has been stopped in its tracks. But what exactly is happening with Brexit?
Trending
The UK formally left the European Union on January 31 bringing an end to Britain’s 47-year membership. The UK had by that date agreed its terms for its departure from the bloc, but now both sides need to take steps towards deciding what their future relationship will look like. These terms and conditions will need to be worked out during the transition period which is due to end on December 31, 2020. During this 11-month period, the trading relationship between the UK and EU countries will remain the same. READ MORE: We’re out! Britain rejects EU offer of two-year Brexit extension
Brexit latest: What is the latest news with Brexit?
Brexit latest: Brexit day was celebrated on January 31, 2020
READ MORE Andrew Neil mocks Remainers for Nissan's EU snub What areas need to be negotiated during the transition period? The transition period was established to enable both the UK and EU an opportunity to agree a new free trade agreement. When the UK formally left the EU, it agreed to leave the single market and customs union at the end of the transition period. Before this time, the UK and EU will want to establish a free trade agreement which will allow gods to move around the EU without checks or extra charges. If a new one cannot be agreed, the UK faces the prospect of leaving with no deal in place meaning tariffs will be imposed on UK goods moving to the EU and other barriers to trade. Many other areas also need to be agreed in terms of the future UK-EU relationship including: Law enforcement, data sharing and security
Aviation standards and safety
Access to fishing waters
Supplies of electricity and gas
Licensing and regulation of medicines.
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Brexit latest: The UK Brexit transition period ends on December 31
READ MORE EU 'nightmare' exposed: BBC's Adler explains Brussels talks fears In a letter to the EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier, Mr Frost said the EU’s proposed deal “contains novel and unbalanced proposals which would bind this country to EU law or standards". The letter sent on Tuesday reads: “Overall, at this moment in negotiations, what is on offer is not a fair free trade relationship between close economic partners, but a relatively low-quality trade agreement coming with unprecedented EU oversight of our laws and institutions. “It does not have to be like this. “I remain convinced that it would be very straightforward for us to agree a modern and high-quality FTA and other separate agreements, like those you have agreed with other close partners around the world, and that we could do so quickly. “I do hope that in the weeks to come the EU will think again about its proposals in a way that will enable us to then find a rapid and constructive alternative way forward.”
Brexit latest: The PM is due to fly to Brussels for the fourth round of talks on June 1
In response, Mr Barier said he did not believe the “exchange of letters regarding the substance of the negotiations is necessarily the best way to discuss on substantial points". He wrote: “It cannot be a substitute for serious engagement and detailed negotiations and, in particular, I would not like the tone that you have taken to impact the mutual trust and constructive attitude that is essential between us.” Mr Barnier added the UK “cannot expect high-quality access to the EU Single Market if it is not prepared to accept guarantees to ensure that competition remains open and fair.” He also id there needs to be “tangible and parallel progress” during negotiations including “engagement on and commitments to a level playing field and appropriate governance mechanisms, as well as to balanced, sustainable and long-term arrangements on fisheries.”


thedailyexpress--2020-05-29--Dominic Cummings petition: Petition to sack Mr Cummings reaches 977,000 – will he quit?

Dominic Cummings is at the centre of a national row regarding an alleged breach of coronavirus lockdown rules in March .
The PM ’ s chief aide has been accused of driving from London to Durham at the height of lockdown restrictions in breach of lockdown rules .
But how many believe Mr Cummings should resign and will he quit ?
Dominic Cummmings is Boris Johnson ’ s closest political adviser working in the upper reaches of the Government and Conservative Party for almost 20 years .
Mr Cummings was seen leaving Downing Street on March 27 and three days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus symptoms .
But despite the UK being on lockdown , it is claimed Mr Cummings travelled 260 miles from London to Durham between March 27 and 31 .
Police in Durham were `` made aware of reports that an individual had travelled from London to Durham and was present at an address in the city '' on March 31 .
Officers then `` made contact with the owners of that address '' .
Mr Cummings claimed and his wife made the trip in order to organise childcare support after the pair displayed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mirror and The Observer , Mr Cummings then visited Barnard Castle , located 30 miles from his parents ’ home in Durham .
Members of the public also claimed to have seen him in the county after he had returned to London in mid-April .
Speaking to reporters at Downing Street on Monday Mr Cummings said he believed he had acted `` reasonably '' and legally when he drove 260 miles from home in March .
Mr Johnson faced a backlash on Sunday for his failure to sack Mr Cummings .
Speaking from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I want to begin by answering the big question that people have been asking in the last 48 hours .
“ And that is – is this Government asking you - the people , the public , to do one thing while senior people here in government do something else ?
“ Have we been asking you to make sacrifices , to obey social distancing , to stay at home while some people have been basically flouting those rules and endangering lives ?
“ And it is because I take this matter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ serious that I can tell you today I have had extensive face to face conversations with Dominic Cummings and I have concluded that in travelling to find the right kind of childcare , at the moment when both he and his wife were about to be incapacitated by coronavirus .
“ And when he had no alternative , I think he followed the instincts of every father and every parent .
And I do not mark him down for that .
And though there have been many other allegations about what happened when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some of them palpably false .
“ I believe that in every respect he has acted responsibly , and legally , and with integrity , and with the overwhelming aim of stopping the spread of the virus and saving lives .
“ And I stress this fundamental aim because it is thanks to this country ’ s collective resolve in achieving that aim that we continue to make progress.
” On Monday in a bid to divert attention from the row over Mr Cummings , the PM announced that thousands of high street @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across England could open next month once they are COVID-19 safe .
DO N'T MISS Boris Johnson stands by under fire aide Dominic Cummings [ INSIGHT ] How Dominic Cummings was saved by the government using THESE defences [ EXPLAINER ] Piers Morgan blasts Boris Johnson after defending Dominic Cummings [ VIDEO ] So far , at least 30 Tory MPs including Steve Baker , Tim Loughton and Caroline Nokes , have called for Mr Cummings ’ s resignation .
Former minister Paul Maynard said : `` It is a classic case of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I do ' - and it is not as if he was unfamiliar with the guidance he himself helped draw up .
`` It seems to me to be utterly indefensible and his position wholly untenable . ''
Senior Church of England bishops and a scientist advising the Government on the pandemic have also criticised the Government ’ s handling of the row .
A frontline cardiology registrar has vowed to resign if the PM ’ s chief adviser does not resign by the end of the week .
On Thursday , Durham @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` a minor breach '' of lockdown rules , but said he will face no further action .
The police said the 26-mile trip from Durham to Barnard Castle to test his eyesight `` might have been a minor breach of the regulations that would have warranted police intervention '' , but `` there is no intention to take retrospective action '' .
Bookmakers believe Mr Cummings will retain his current role until at least June 1 .
According to Betfair , Dominic Cummings is at 1/2 odds to keep his current job @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at 6/4 odds to lose his position by that date .
Betfair 's Katie Baylis said : “ The controversy around Cummings ’ trip to his parents ’ house in Durham may be gathering steam , but his odds of exiting his job have swung from odds-on at 4/6 first thing this morning that he would be gone by the end of the month , to odds-on at 1/2 now that he will still be there .
“ While there have been calls for Cummings to resign or be sacked , we have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what punters believe will happen , but this story is sure to develop as the week , and even the day goes on , so we wouldn ’ t be surprised to see the odds fluctuate .
”

Boris Johnson slammed by Cooper for 'protecting' Cummings
Dominic Cummings is at the centre of a national row regarding an alleged breach of coronavirus lockdown rules in March. The PM’s chief aide has been accused of driving from London to Durham at the height of lockdown restrictions in breach of lockdown rules. But how many believe Mr Cummings should resign and will he quit?
Trending
Dominic Cummmings is Boris Johnson’s closest political adviser working in the upper reaches of the Government and Conservative Party for almost 20 years. Mr Cummings was seen leaving Downing Street on March 27 and three days later was confirmed to be self-isolating with coronavirus symptoms. But despite the UK being on lockdown, it is claimed Mr Cummings travelled 260 miles from London to Durham between March 27 and 31. Police in Durham were "made aware of reports that an individual had travelled from London to Durham and was present at an address in the city" on March 31. Officers then "made contact with the owners of that address". READ MORE: BBC viewers slam Gavin Williamson over Dominic Cummings probe
Dominic Cummings petition: Will Dominic Cummings quit amid row over breaching lockdown conditions?
Dominic Cummings petition: Dominic Cummings is accused of travelling 260 miles breaking lockdown rules
READ MORE Piers Morgan fumes over 'disgraceful' replacement of Emily Maitlis Mr Cummings claimed and his wife made the trip in order to organise childcare support after the pair displayed COVID-19 symptoms. According to the Daily Mirror and The Observer, Mr Cummings then visited Barnard Castle, located 30 miles from his parents’ home in Durham. Members of the public also claimed to have seen him in the county after he had returned to London in mid-April. Speaking to reporters at Downing Street on Monday Mr Cummings said he believed he had acted "reasonably" and legally when he drove 260 miles from home in March.
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Dominic Cummings petition: Downing Street revealed Mr Cummings was exhibiting symptoms of the virus at the end of March
Dominic Cummings petition: Mr Cummings speaking from Downing Street on Monday
Mr Johnson faced a backlash on Sunday for his failure to sack Mr Cummings. Speaking from Downing Street, the PM said: “I want to begin by answering the big question that people have been asking in the last 48 hours. “And that is – is this Government asking you - the people, the public, to do one thing while senior people here in government do something else? “Have we been asking you to make sacrifices, to obey social distancing, to stay at home while some people have been basically flouting those rules and endangering lives? “And it is because I take this matter so seriously and frankly it is so serious that I can tell you today I have had extensive face to face conversations with Dominic Cummings and I have concluded that in travelling to find the right kind of childcare, at the moment when both he and his wife were about to be incapacitated by coronavirus. “And when he had no alternative, I think he followed the instincts of every father and every parent. And I do not mark him down for that. And though there have been many other allegations about what happened when he was in self-isolation and thereafter, some of them palpably false. “I believe that in every respect he has acted responsibly, and legally, and with integrity, and with the overwhelming aim of stopping the spread of the virus and saving lives. “And I stress this fundamental aim because it is thanks to this country’s collective resolve in achieving that aim that we continue to make progress.” On Monday in a bid to divert attention from the row over Mr Cummings, the PM announced that thousands of high street shops, department stores and shopping centres across England could open next month once they are COVID-19 safe. DON'T MISS
Boris Johnson stands by under fire aide Dominic Cummings [INSIGHT]
How Dominic Cummings was saved by the government using THESE defences [EXPLAINER]
Piers Morgan blasts Boris Johnson after defending Dominic Cummings [VIDEO]
READ MORE Chris Evans: Virgin Radio DJ makes 'vision' dig at Dominic Cummings So far, at least 30 Tory MPs including Steve Baker, Tim Loughton and Caroline Nokes, have called for Mr Cummings’s resignation. Former minister Paul Maynard said: "It is a classic case of 'do as I say, not as I do' - and it is not as if he was unfamiliar with the guidance he himself helped draw up. "It seems to me to be utterly indefensible and his position wholly untenable." Senior Church of England bishops and a scientist advising the Government on the pandemic have also criticised the Government’s handling of the row. A frontline cardiology registrar has vowed to resign if the PM’s chief adviser does not resign by the end of the week. On Thursday, Durham Police said Mr Cummings may have committed "a minor breach" of lockdown rules, but said he will face no further action. The police said the 26-mile trip from Durham to Barnard Castle to test his eyesight "might have been a minor breach of the regulations that would have warranted police intervention", but "there is no intention to take retrospective action".
Dominic Cummings petition: Mr Johnson supported Mr Cummings on Sunday saying he had 'acted responsibly'
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Dominic Cummings petition: Protesters have gathered outside Mr Cummings' home calling for his resignation
As of 7.15am on May 29, more than 977,000 members of the public have signed this online petition calling for Mr Cummings’s resignation. Writing on the petition, one person wrote: “Thousands of grieving families are not allowed to see hospitalised loved ones before they pass - NO ONE is excused for flouting the law. Especially 10 Downing St!” Another added: “There's no justification for travelling 250miles for family support, we all have to rely on local friends and online shops when isolating.” One person wrote: “It seems to be one rule for us common folk and another for those in Westminster. What happened to lead by example, shocking.”


thedailyexpress--2020-05-30--Brexit warning: Boris could 'blink last minute' in EU talks to avoid catastrophic no deal

The UK and European Union began negotiations on the future relationship in March after Boris Johnson delivered on his promise to `` get Brexit done '' on January 31 .
But talks have quickly fallen apart , with London and Brussels trading crushing blows and brutal insults over their negotiating stances and demands for certain elements in any post-Brexit agreement .
Key areas such as the level playing field , state aid , tax and access to the single market all still remain unresolved - with no solution in sight .
Pressure has intensified , with the Prime Minister and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a post-Brexit trade deal with the EU must be signed before the end of the transition period on December 31 , 2020 .
Earlier this week , the EU 's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier wrote to opposition political parties in the UK to say Brussels is open to extending the transition period by a further two years .
But this was immediately slapped down by Mr Johnson and the UK 's own chief Brexit negotiator David Frost .
A group of Remain ministers , led by Liberal Democrat acting co-leader Sir Ed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Bill through Parliament in a last-ditch and desperate attempt to delay Brexit by up to two years .
The second reading of this Bill is due to take place on June 12 - less than three weeks before the deadline by which the UK can request an extension to the transition period .
Trade talks could reach a critical point on Monday when the next round of virtual negotiations begin , with Mr Frost continuing to warn the EU needs to dramatically change its stance in negotiations and relent on a number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be made .
Tim Bale , deputy director of the UK in a Changing Europe think tank and professor of politics at Queen Mary University of London told Express.co.uk : `` Talks could collapse but it 's in both sides ' interest to keep the negotiations going in the hope that they can come up with something at the eleventh hour .
`` The UK could walk away but that would be unwise - both diplomatically and economically .
READ MORE : About time , Leo !
Varadkar panic as Ireland realises UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Johnson will either do what he did with the Withdrawal Agreement - blink at the last minute but present it as a win .
`` The other alternative is he will take the UK out of the single market and customs union without a deal , and hope that the dire predictions as to the consequences are overplayed . ''
Kostas Maronitis , lecturer in politics and international relations at Leeds Trinity University , warned there is a real risk trade negotiations will completely collapse over the coming weeks as time runs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` What needs to be considered is not only the timeline of negotiations but also the time the UK and EU member-states have at their disposal to prepare for the new trade conditions and terms .
DO N'T MISS Brexit fury : Barnier hits out at Frost 's demand for EU compromise [ COMMENT ] Barnier eyes fishing deal : EU compromise could pave way for agreement [ ANALYSIS ] EU 'nightmare ' exposed : BBC 's Adler explains Brussels talks fears [ INSIGHT ] '' If there isn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ start preparing for the worst-case scenario of a no-deal Brexit trade negotiations .
`` In other words , a no deal in reality would mean a bad deal for both sides . ''
Patrick Sullivan , CEO of the Westminster think tank Parliament Street , warned the EU could counter the UK by taking talks `` right up to the wire '' .
He said : `` We know from the withdrawal bill fiasco that the EU takes things right up until the wire .
The UK government know this .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ importer of EU consumer goods has given government Brexit negotiators confidence that the EU will not erect trade barriers in the form of tariffs when the transition period concludes in December .
”

Brexit: David Frost outlines 'frustration' with EU negotiations
The UK and European Union began negotiations on the future relationship in March after Boris Johnson delivered on his promise to "get Brexit done" on January 31. But talks have quickly fallen apart, with London and Brussels trading crushing blows and brutal insults over their negotiating stances and demands for certain elements in any post-Brexit agreement. Key areas such as the level playing field, state aid, tax and access to the single market all still remain unresolved - with no solution in sight.
Trending
Pressure has intensified, with the Prime Minister and his UK negotiating team continuing to insist a post-Brexit trade deal with the EU must be signed before the end of the transition period on December 31, 2020. Earlier this week, the EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier wrote to opposition political parties in the UK to say Brussels is open to extending the transition period by a further two years. But this was immediately slapped down by Mr Johnson and the UK's own chief Brexit negotiator David Frost. A group of Remain ministers, led by Liberal Democrat acting co-leader Sir Ed Davey, are also trying to squeeze a Bill through Parliament in a last-ditch and desperate attempt to delay Brexit by up to two years.
Brexit news: Boris Johnson has been issued a warning ahead of the latest round of crunch trade talks
Brexit news: The Prime Minister has come out fighting against the EU in trade talks
The second reading of this Bill is due to take place on June 12 - less than three weeks before the deadline by which the UK can request an extension to the transition period. Trade talks could reach a critical point on Monday when the next round of virtual negotiations begin, with Mr Frost continuing to warn the EU needs to dramatically change its stance in negotiations and relent on a number of areas if further progress is to be made. Tim Bale, deputy director of the UK in a Changing Europe think tank and professor of politics at Queen Mary University of London told Express.co.uk: "Talks could collapse but it's in both sides' interest to keep the negotiations going in the hope that they can come up with something at the eleventh hour. "The UK could walk away but that would be unwise - both diplomatically and economically. READ MORE: About time, Leo! Varadkar panic as Ireland realises UK 'serious'
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Brexit news: Michel Barnier has been highly critical of the UK during trade talks
"In the end, though, Johnson will either do what he did with the Withdrawal Agreement - blink at the last minute but present it as a win. "The other alternative is he will take the UK out of the single market and customs union without a deal, and hope that the dire predictions as to the consequences are overplayed." Kostas Maronitis, lecturer in politics and international relations at Leeds Trinity University, warned there is a real risk trade negotiations will completely collapse over the coming weeks as time runs out to get one signed. He said: "What needs to be considered is not only the timeline of negotiations but also the time the UK and EU member-states have at their disposal to prepare for the new trade conditions and terms. DON'T MISS
Brexit fury: Barnier hits out at Frost's demand for EU compromise [COMMENT]
Barnier eyes fishing deal: EU compromise could pave way for agreement [ANALYSIS]
EU 'nightmare' exposed: BBC's Adler explains Brussels talks fears [INSIGHT]
Brexit news: The UK and EU began trade talks in March
Brexit news: David Frost warned the UK will not be asking to extend the transition period
"If there isn’t any progress both sides will need to start preparing for the worst-case scenario of a no-deal Brexit trade negotiations. "In other words, a no deal in reality would mean a bad deal for both sides." Patrick Sullivan, CEO of the Westminster think tank Parliament Street, warned the EU could counter the UK by taking talks "right up to the wire". He said: "We know from the withdrawal bill fiasco that the EU takes things right up until the wire. The UK government know this. "The UK’s status as a net importer of EU consumer goods has given government Brexit negotiators confidence that the EU will not erect trade barriers in the form of tariffs when the transition period concludes in December.”
Brexit news: The transition period is due to end on December 31, 2020


thedailyexpress--2020-05-29--‘EU desperate for extension’: Brussels plot to ‘trap’ UK…but Britain not listening

The CEO of think tank who played a role in high-level Brexit compromise discussions between Conservative MPs and the Government last year has warned that Brussels has grown “ desperate ” to have more time to thrash out a trade deal with Britain .
Shanker Singham , owner of trade law and economic policy consultancy firm Competere , warned the UK would be “ extremely foolish ” to ask the bloc for more time .
The Brexit trade adviser ’ s warning comes as Ireland is stepping up planning for a no-deal Brexit on December 31 , the date on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Singham tweeted : “ The EU is desperate for an extension .
“ This is because the current extension terms are incredibly unfavourable to the UK .
“ The UK would be extremely foolish to give in to this .
“ It would be a trap from which they would struggle to escape.
” Fellow trade expert Matt Kilcoyne said “ no one serious ” in Britain is considering pushing back the end date of the transition period .
Mr Kilcoyne is deputy director of Adam Smith Institute , a British-based free market @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is quite telling that the EU keeps talking about Brexit talks extension but no one serious in the UK is .
READ MORE : Brexit prediction : Why ‘ no great progress ’ will be made in talks He said any extension to trade talks would have a time limit .
And he refuted the claim that Eurocrats had pushed hard for more time , saying they have simply “ reminded ” their British counterparts that it remains an option .
“ They ’ re reminding UK political world that extension is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dealing with Covid , it ’ s a hint that to get anything meaningful more time might be wise.
” However , he admitted there was “ very little expectation ” among EU leader that Boris Johnson ’ s Government would ask for an extension to the transition period .
Ireland ’ s premier Leo Varadkar has said the Government has stepped up planning for what might happen if the UK does not agree a trade deal with the EU Speaking at a post-cabinet briefing in Dublin on Friday , the Taoiseach said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit talks .
Mr Varadkar said : `` While the Government is prioritising Covid , we have n't forgotten about Brexit either .
Among the things we agreed to do is to step up no-deal planning , that no-deal trade planning , in case we get into that position at the end of the year .

Brexit: Alice Grant says it’s ‘important’ UK reject extension
The CEO of think tank who played a role in high-level Brexit compromise discussions between Conservative MPs and the Government last year has warned that Brussels has grown “desperate” to have more time to thrash out a trade deal with Britain. Shanker Singham, owner of trade law and economic policy consultancy firm Competere, warned the UK would be “extremely foolish” to ask the bloc for more time.
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The Brexit trade adviser’s warning comes as Ireland is stepping up planning for a no-deal Brexit on December 31, the date on which the transition period ends. Mr Singham tweeted: “The EU is desperate for an extension. “This is because the current extension terms are incredibly unfavourable to the UK. “The UK would be extremely foolish to give in to this.
Brexit warning: The EU is 'desperate' for more time to strike a trade deal, an expert has said
Shanker Singham warned Brussels is 'desperate' for an extension to the transition period
“It would be a trap from which they would struggle to escape.” Fellow trade expert Matt Kilcoyne said “no one serious” in Britain is considering pushing back the end date of the transition period. Mr Kilcoyne is deputy director of Adam Smith Institute, a British-based free market think tank. He tweeted: “It is quite telling that the EU keeps talking about Brexit talks extension but no one serious in the UK is. READ MORE: Brexit prediction: Why ‘no great progress’ will be made in talks
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Boris Johnson is refusing to bow to pressure to request a Brexit transition period extension
Shanker Singham was involved in high-level Brexit compromise discussions between Conservative MPs and the Government last year
Boris Johnson is busy responding to the pandemic as Brexit talks continue
He said any extension to trade talks would have a time limit. And he refuted the claim that Eurocrats had pushed hard for more time, saying they have simply “reminded” their British counterparts that it remains an option. Mr Dance said: “It’s time-limited, not a ‘trap’. “They’re reminding UK political world that extension is an option. “Whilst everyone is dealing with Covid, it’s a hint that to get anything meaningful more time might be wise.”
Brexit: Britain is ‘most reliant on food imports’ in EU says expert
However, he admitted there was “very little expectation” among EU leader that Boris Johnson’s Government would ask for an extension to the transition period. Ireland’s premier Leo Varadkar has said the Government has stepped up planning for what might happen if the UK does not agree a trade deal with the EU Speaking at a post-cabinet briefing in Dublin on Friday, the Taoiseach said very little progress has been made on Brexit talks. Mr Varadkar said: "While the Government is prioritising Covid, we haven't forgotten about Brexit either. Among the things we agreed to do is to step up no-deal planning, that no-deal trade planning, in case we get into that position at the end of the year.
Michel Barnier is leading Brexit trade talks on behalf of the EU


thedailyexpress--2020-05-29--'That's what caused Brexit!' Anger at deluded Verhofstadt's EU exit rant

The MEP took to Twitter to share a picture of the cover of the Dutch magazine Elsevier Weekblad which featured a story about the EU ’ s coronavirus recovery fund .
Mr Verhofstadt fumed : “ This kind of false reporting led to Brexit.
” The MEP added : “ Elsevier has clearly not read the plan .
“ Not 1 NL citizen will pay 1€ more for the COVID Recoveryfund .
“ In the plan on the table the American internet giants & the products with a huge ecological footprint imported in EU will finance it.
” But the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The MEP took to Twitter to share a picture of the cover of the Dutch magazine Elsevier Weekblad which featured a story about the EU ’ s coronavirus recovery fund One commented : “ No Guy what led to Brexit was people like me who despise the EU voting for us to LEAVE.
” A third said : “ No Unaccountable people like you led to Brexit.
” READ MORE : Brexit prediction : Why ‘ no great progress ’ will be made in talks Another added : “ Na Na Na @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that , wanting to be independent that lead to brexit.
” One more commented : “ Na Na Na it ’ s nothing to do with that , wanting to be independent that lead to brexit.
” The UK legally left the EU on January 31 and is in a transition period with Brussels until the end of 2020 while the two sides negotiate a free trade agreement .
DO N'T MISS Farage hints at secret Brexit reason Boris still wants Cummings around [ VIDEO ] About time , Leo !
Varadkar panic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ INSIGHT ] Brexit fury : Barnier hits out at Frost 's demand for EU compromise [ ANALYSIS ] Prime Minister Boris Johnson has repeatedly insisted he will not push back the deadline despite claims by Remainer critics that the timeframe is too tight .
But little progress was made in the latest round of talks , which are taking place remotely due to the coronavirus pandemic .
Key sticking points include fishing arrangements and the EU ’ s demand for a level playing field on standards .
Earlier this month , Mr Johnson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bloc ’ s approach to negotiations in a letter to his EU counterpart Michel Barnier .
He said the UK found it `` perplexing '' that the EU was continuing to make `` unbalanced , and unprecedented '' demands but argued `` rapid '' progress could be made if Brussels was willing to offer terms similar to those found in free trade agreements it had already struck with third countries such as Canada and Japan .
Mr Frost said : `` Overall , at this moment in negotiations , what is on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relationship between close economic partners , but a relatively low-quality trade agreement coming with unprecedented EU oversight of our laws and institutions .
It does not have to be like this .
`` I remain convinced that it would be very straightforward for us to agree a modern and high-quality FTA and other separate agreements , like those you have agreed with other close partners around the world , and that we could do so quickly.
`` The EU ’ s chief negotiator responded by hitting out at the “ tone ” of @ @ @

Brexit: David Frost insists UK ‘will not extend transition period’
The MEP took to Twitter to share a picture of the cover of the Dutch magazine Elsevier Weekblad which featured a story about the EU’s coronavirus recovery fund. Mr Verhofstadt fumed: “This kind of false reporting led to Brexit.”
The MEP added: “Elsevier has clearly not read the plan. “Not 1 NL citizen will pay 1€ more for the COVID Recoveryfund. “In the plan on the table the American internet giants & the products with a huge ecological footprint imported in EU will finance it.” But the tweet prompted an angry reaction from Brexiteers.
Brexiteers have reacted with anger after Guy Verhofstadt claimed “false reporting” led to Brexit
The MEP took to Twitter to share a picture of the cover of the Dutch magazine Elsevier Weekblad which featured a story about the EU’s coronavirus recovery fund
One commented: “No Guy what led to Brexit was people like me who despise the EU voting for us to LEAVE.” Another wrote: “No. A corrupt undemocratic EU superstate led to Brexit.” A third said: “No Unaccountable people like you led to Brexit.” READ MORE: Brexit prediction: Why ‘no great progress’ will be made in talks
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Boris Johnson's Europe adviser David Frost (left) and his EU counterpart Michel Barnier (right
This kind of false reporting led to Brexit. Elsevier has clearly not read the plan. Not 1 NL citizen will pay 1€ more for the COVID Recoveryfund. In the plan on the table the American internet giants & the products with a huge ecological footprint imported in EU will finance it. pic.twitter.com/snGPMqCLK9 — Guy Verhofstadt (@guyverhofstadt) May 29, 2020
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has repeatedly insisted he will not push back the deadline despite claims by Remainer critics that the timeframe is too tight. But little progress was made in the latest round of talks, which are taking place remotely due to the coronavirus pandemic. Key sticking points include fishing arrangements and the EU’s demand for a level playing field on standards. Earlier this month, Mr Johnson’s Europe adviser David Frost criticised the bloc’s approach to negotiations in a letter to his EU counterpart Michel Barnier.
Little progress was made in the latest round of post-Brexit trade talks, which are taking place remotely due to the coronavirus pandemic
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-05-29--Theresa May hits out at Dominic Cummings in blow to Boris 'I understand the anger'

The former Prime Minister has said she recognises the anger felt by the British public over the news that Dominic Cummings travelled to Durham during the coronavirus lockdown .
In a letter to her constituents , Mrs May said she was concerned the matter was distracting from the pandemic and understood the anger felt by much of the British public .
The MP for Maidenhead started the statement by paying tribute to `` the strength and resolve of the British people '' during the current crisis .
She said : `` It is through our collective actions that we have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we are turning the tide on coronavirus .
`` And our thanks are especially due to our heroic NHS staff and care workers . ''
Mrs May also thanked her constituents and the wider British public for following the Government 's rules and guidance .
The former Prime Minister then goes on to discuss the recent furore surrounding the actions of Boris Johnson 's chief advisor , Dominic Cummings .
She writes : `` The Prime Minister and Dominic Cummings have both made statements about Mr Cummings ' actions .
`` What this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a discrepancy between the simple messages given by the Government and the details of the legislation passed by Parliament .
`` In these circumstances I do not feel that Mr Cummings followed the spirit of the guidance .
`` I can well understand the anger of those who have been abiding by the spirit of the guidance given by the Government and expect others to do so .
`` One of my biggest concerns has been that the ongoing focus on Mr Cummings has been detracting from the most important task , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ process of recovery and easing lockdown .
`` It is important that we continue to work together in our local communities to deal with coronavirus and ensure that we are able to relax lockdown measures safely .
`` During this challenging period , my office and I will continue to work hard to support constituents , to work with the local community and to raise ongoing concerns and views with the Government . ''
In writing the letter , Mrs May has become the latest senior Tory to criticise the behaviour of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heavily criticised for backing Mr Cummings , with many backbench Tory MPs venting their anger at the move .
Last Friday it was revealed Mr Cummings had driven from London to Durham during the coronavirus lockdown .
In a rare press conference on Monday afternoon , the political aide said he made the trip to safeguard the welfare of his four-year-old son , as he feared both him and his wife could fall ill with the deadly virus .
Whilst in Durham , Mr Cummings also took a 60-mile trip to Barnard Castle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ order to test his eyesight and ensure he was fit enough to drive back to London later that week .

Dominic Cummings: Farage says confidence ‘lost’ in Johnson
The former Prime Minister has said she recognises the anger felt by the British public over the news that Dominic Cummings travelled to Durham during the coronavirus lockdown. In a letter to her constituents, Mrs May said she was concerned the matter was distracting from the pandemic and understood the anger felt by much of the British public. The MP for Maidenhead started the statement by paying tribute to "the strength and resolve of the British people" during the current crisis.
Trending
She said: "It is through our collective actions that we have prevented our NHS from being overrun and we are turning the tide on coronavirus. "And our thanks are especially due to our heroic NHS staff and care workers." Mrs May also thanked her constituents and the wider British public for following the Government's rules and guidance. The former Prime Minister then goes on to discuss the recent furore surrounding the actions of Boris Johnson's chief advisor, Dominic Cummings.
Theresa May has given a statement on the Dominic Cummings row
Dominic Cummings has been heavily criticised for travelling during lockdown
She writes: "The Prime Minister and Dominic Cummings have both made statements about Mr Cummings' actions. "What this matter has shown is that there was a discrepancy between the simple messages given by the Government and the details of the legislation passed by Parliament. "In these circumstances I do not feel that Mr Cummings followed the spirit of the guidance. "I can well understand the anger of those who have been abiding by the spirit of the guidance given by the Government and expect others to do so.
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Dominic Cummings said he travelled to Barnard Castle to test his eyesight
"One of my biggest concerns has been that the ongoing focus on Mr Cummings has been detracting from the most important task, which is dealing with coronavirus and starting the process of recovery and easing lockdown. "It is important that we continue to work together in our local communities to deal with coronavirus and ensure that we are able to relax lockdown measures safely. "During this challenging period, my office and I will continue to work hard to support constituents, to work with the local community and to raise ongoing concerns and views with the Government." In writing the letter, Mrs May has become the latest senior Tory to criticise the behaviour of the No10 aide.
Dominic Cummings was grilled by journalists on Monday afternoon
Mr Johnson has been heavily criticised for backing Mr Cummings, with many backbench Tory MPs venting their anger at the move. Last Friday it was revealed Mr Cummings had driven from London to Durham during the coronavirus lockdown. In a rare press conference on Monday afternoon, the political aide said he made the trip to safeguard the welfare of his four-year-old son, as he feared both him and his wife could fall ill with the deadly virus. Whilst in Durham, Mr Cummings also took a 60-mile trip to Barnard Castle, which he says was necessary in order to test his eyesight and ensure he was fit enough to drive back to London later that week.
Dominic Cummings timeline


thedailyexpress--2020-05-29--Brexit plot set for 'humiliating' defeat as Remainers fail to extend transition - poll

A group of MPs have been slammed by Express.co.uk readers for trying to sneak a Bill through Parliament that demands a two-year extension to the transition , due to end on December 31 .
The plot by MPs during the coronavirus pandemic has been branded “ despicable ” by the DUP 's Brexit spokesman Sammy Wilson .
Express.co.uk conducted an online poll asking readers if they believed the politicians would be successful in their bid to tie the UK to the EU for longer .
Ninety-five percent ( 10,103 ) of respondents said no while only five percent ( 466 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 10,657 readers who voted in the survey said they were unsure about what to expect .
The ballot ran from 2.50pm to 8pm on Friday , May 29 .
Some readers rebuked the Remainer MPs for not accepting the current Brexit timeline .
One said : “ Absolutely not a chance - which part of were leaving on the 31st do Remainers not understand ?
” A second said Britons had already put up with enough Brexit delays and another would be a step too far .
He said : “ No @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hard for more time to strike a trade deal with the UK would do better to sort out their problems at home rather than make Britons wait longer to get on with their post-Brexit future .
READ MORE : Back off , Trump !
Hong Kong tinderbox as China vows countermeasures Another reader went as far as to warn that Boris Johnson and the Conservatives would be wiped out at the next election if the Prime Minister asked the EU for a delay .
They said if the UK sold out its fishermen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it would come back to bite them .
They wrote : “ If Boris extends the transition period , sells out on fisheries , continues with control of ECJ or adopts the level playing field , both Boris and the Conservative Party are finished.
” Earlier this week , the EU ’ s chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier wrote to British opposition parties , including the Liberal Democrats and SNP , to tell them that Brussels remains open to an extension of up to 24 months .
The idea was immediately dismissed by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ negotiator David Frost .
They said any trade agreement between Britain and the bloc would have to be wrapped up before December 31 .

Brexit: Alice Grant says it’s ‘important’ UK reject extension
A group of MPs have been slammed by Express.co.uk readers for trying to sneak a Bill through Parliament that demands a two-year extension to the transition, due to end on December 31. The plot by MPs during the coronavirus pandemic has been branded “despicable” by the DUP's Brexit spokesman Sammy Wilson. Express.co.uk conducted an online poll asking readers if they believed the politicians would be successful in their bid to tie the UK to the EU for longer.
Trending
Ninety-five percent (10,103) of respondents said no while only five percent (466) said yes. Just 88 of the 10,657 readers who voted in the survey said they were unsure about what to expect. The ballot ran from 2.50pm to 8pm on Friday, May 29. Some readers rebuked the Remainer MPs for not accepting the current Brexit timeline.
Boris Johnson has ruled out a plot to extend the Brexit transition period
Michel Barnier wrote to opposition leaders about an extension this week
One said: “Absolutely not a chance - which part of were leaving on the 31st do Remainers not understand?” A second said Britons had already put up with enough Brexit delays and another would be a step too far. He said: “No more delays.” He said Eurocrats pushing hard for more time to strike a trade deal with the UK would do better to sort out their problems at home rather than make Britons wait longer to get on with their post-Brexit future. READ MORE: Back off, Trump! Hong Kong tinderbox as China vows countermeasures
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Boris Johnson has ruled out an extension
The DUP's Sammy Wilson called the plot 'despicable'
Another reader went as far as to warn that Boris Johnson and the Conservatives would be wiped out at the next election if the Prime Minister asked the EU for a delay. They said if the UK sold out its fishermen in a trade deal with the bloc it would come back to bite them. They wrote: “If Boris extends the transition period, sells out on fisheries, continues with control of ECJ or adopts the level playing field, both Boris and the Conservative Party are finished.”
The timeline of Brexit
Earlier this week, the EU’s chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier wrote to British opposition parties, including the Liberal Democrats and SNP, to tell them that Brussels remains open to an extension of up to 24 months. The idea was immediately dismissed by both Mr Johnson and his chief Brexit negotiator David Frost. They said any trade agreement between Britain and the bloc would have to be wrapped up before December 31.
The DUP's Sammy Wilson slammed the plot amid the coronavirus pandemic


thedailyexpress--2020-05-29--Brexit prediction: Why ‘no great progress’ will be made in crunch talks until September

David Henig , director of the UK trade policy project and a former trade negotiator , predicts both sides will report “ no great progress ” while both “ play to domestic audiences ” .
Speaking out on Twitter this afternoon , Mr Henig predicted the “ real political negotiations ” would begin in September .
It comes after the UK 's chief negotiator David Frost said the Government would not ask for an extension and pledged that any request by the EU for one would be rejected .
Britain left the EU on January 31 but the main terms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a transition period until the end of this year , allowing it time to negotiate a new free trade deal with the bloc .
Mr Frost told the Commons Committee on the Future Relationship with the European Union on Wednesday : `` That is the firm policy of the Government , that we will not extend the transition period and if asked we would not agree to it . ''
This was despite the European Union being `` open '' to a two-year Brexit delay , chief negotiator Michel Barnier confirmed .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Such an extension of up to one or two years can be agreed jointly by the two parties .
`` The European Union has always said that we remain open on this matter.
” Mr Henig added on Twitter : “ Negotiators can only try to find the wiggle room around the red lines , ultimately the political leaders have to decide on the importance of compromise or no-deal .
But he stressed “ right now neither side is ready for that conversation ” .
READ MORE : Farage hints at secret @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Henig continued : “ Assuming that there is no extension , which I think is now quite a safe assumption as the need to say no to Europe is still more important than the detail .
“ That only real UK red line ( claiming victory over the EU ) is harder to forecast in September.
” Speaking to the Financial Times earlier this week , the trade director also said that the UK was “ cherry-picking ” what it liked about EU membership .
He added : “ The UK is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or Japan in exchange for the same — or probably even less — in terms of level playing field provisions.
” DO N'T MISS : About time , Leo !
Varadkar panic as Ireland realises UK 'serious ' [ REVEAL ] Time to fight ‘ EU super trawlers ’ as Brexit talks sour - 'OUR waters ! '
[ REVEAL ] Brexit fury : Barnier hits out at Frost 's demand for EU compromise [ REVEAL ] Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove has also backed Mr Frost 's views on a two-year extension @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Peers on the House of Lords EU Committee on the progress of UK-EU future relationship negotiations .
Lord Wood of Anfield asked Mr Gove , said : `` If indeed the European Council comes back and says , 'Look we really do need a little extension for this transition period in order to get the basics sorted out ' , is the Government 's position that it will say no to that request ? ''

Brexit: Britain is ‘most reliant on food imports’ in EU says expert
David Henig, director of the UK trade policy project and a former trade negotiator, predicts both sides will report “no great progress” while both “play to domestic audiences”. Speaking out on Twitter this afternoon, Mr Henig predicted the “real political negotiations” would begin in September.
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It comes after the UK's chief negotiator David Frost said the Government would not ask for an extension and pledged that any request by the EU for one would be rejected. Britain left the EU on January 31 but the main terms of its membership remain in place during a transition period until the end of this year, allowing it time to negotiate a new free trade deal with the bloc. Mr Frost told the Commons Committee on the Future Relationship with the European Union on Wednesday: "That is the firm policy of the Government, that we will not extend the transition period and if asked we would not agree to it." This was despite the European Union being "open" to a two-year Brexit delay, chief negotiator Michel Barnier confirmed.
Michel Barnier has offered the UK a two-year extension to the transition period.
The UK and EU are set to begin the next round of talks next week.
In his letter, Mr Barnier said: "Such an extension of up to one or two years can be agreed jointly by the two parties. "The European Union has always said that we remain open on this matter.” Mr Henig added on Twitter: “Negotiators can only try to find the wiggle room around the red lines, ultimately the political leaders have to decide on the importance of compromise or no-deal. But he stressed “right now neither side is ready for that conversation”. READ MORE: Farage hints at secret Brexit reason Boris still wants Cummings around
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David Frost has said there will no extension to the Brexit transition period.
Mr Henig continued: “Assuming that there is no extension, which I think is now quite a safe assumption as the need to say no to Europe is still more important than the detail. “That only real UK red line (claiming victory over the EU) is harder to forecast in September.” Speaking to the Financial Times earlier this week, the trade director also said that the UK was “cherry-picking” what it liked about EU membership. He added: “The UK is looking for more than Canada, Korea or Japan in exchange for the same — or probably even less — in terms of level playing field provisions.” DON'T MISS:
About time, Leo! Varadkar panic as Ireland realises UK 'serious' [REVEAL]
Time to fight ‘EU super trawlers’ as Brexit talks sour - 'OUR waters!' [REVEAL]
Brexit fury: Barnier hits out at Frost's demand for EU compromise [REVEAL]
The UK is currently in the Brexit transition period.
Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove has also backed Mr Frost's views on a two-year extension. Mr Gove was answering questions from Peers on the House of Lords EU Committee on the progress of UK-EU future relationship negotiations. Lord Wood of Anfield asked Mr Gove, said: "If indeed the European Council comes back and says, 'Look we really do need a little extension for this transition period in order to get the basics sorted out', is the Government's position that it will say no to that request?" Giving a short response, Mr Gove said: "Yes."
Michael Gove also argeed with David Frost saying there will be no extension.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-29--Humiliation for Jeremy Corbyn as he loses ballot to represent Labour at Council of Europe

The former Labour Party leader failed to be selected as one of the eight Parliamentary Labour Party members to represent the party on its delegation to the Council of Europe .
There were 10 applicants and eight places .
The news will be an embarrassing setback for the man that led the Labour Party for five years as Sir Keir Starmer makes his mark at the helm of the party .
Tonia Antoniazzi , Chris Byrant , Stella Creasy , Geraint Davies , Ruth Jones , Tony Lloyd , Kate Osamor , Virendra Sharma were the eight successful applicants .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ out .
Critics of Mr Corbyn took to Twitter to celebrate the news .
One said : `` Thank goodness - after many years in the total wilderness , @ UKLabour is once again becoming a force to be reckoned with and , as far as @ Keir_Starmer is concerned , you ai n't seen nothing yet.
” Another said : `` Thank goodness !
! ''
READ MORE : How Brexit made Jeremy Corbyn ‘ rewrite his OWN history ’ Labour appeared to change the tide when it elected Mr Starmer as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Under veteran socialist Jeremy Corbyn the party of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown endured its worst election performance since 1935 in December , when infighting over strategy , a confused policy over Brexit and allegations of unchecked anti-Semitism turned traditional voters away .
Mr Starmer , a former director of public prosecutions who was knighted in 2014 for services to law and criminal justice , has promised not to “ oversteer ” the party back to the centre .
But many who backed Mr Corbyn say they fear Mr Starmer will come under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s left-wing agenda and try to rebuild a membership base from the centre , changing the party back to something closer to the one led by Mr Blair , who was prime minister from 1997 to 2007 .
It comes after a shock new poll revealed Sir Keir is already more popular than Mr Johnson among British voters .
The YouGov survey , which quizzed 1,674 UK adults from May 9 to May 10 , showed the Labour leader has a net approval rating of +23 , while Mr Johnson has seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
When asked how they thought Sir Keir was performing as leader of the Labour Party , 40 per cent said “ very well ” or “ fairly well ” , while 17 per cent said “ very badly ” or “ fairly badly ” .
In contrast , the Prime Minister divides opinion more strongly , and while 57 percent think he is doing “ very well ” or “ fairly well ” , more than a third ( 35 percent ) think he is doing “ very badly ” or “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ John Macdonald , Head of Government Affairs at the Adam Smith Institute think tank , said there was `` no doubt '' Mr Starmer would be more popular than Mr Corbyn as Labour Party leader but has been warned that while this may save the opposition from `` immediate oblivion '' there is `` only so long he can bank on not being the country 's most disliked leader '' .

Corbyn is ‘the most decent man I know’ says Formby in 2019
The former Labour Party leader failed to be selected as one of the eight Parliamentary Labour Party members to represent the party on its delegation to the Council of Europe. There were 10 applicants and eight places.
Trending
The news will be an embarrassing setback for the man that led the Labour Party for five years as Sir Keir Starmer makes his mark at the helm of the party. Tonia Antoniazzi, Chris Byrant, Stella Creasy, Geraint Davies, Ruth Jones, Tony Lloyd, Kate Osamor, Virendra Sharma were the eight successful applicants. While Mr Corbyn and Tahir Ali lost out.
Jeremy Corbyn lost out in the ballot
Jeremy Corbyn failed to be elected to represent the Council of Europe
Critics of Mr Corbyn took to Twitter to celebrate the news. One said: "Thank goodness - after many years in the total wilderness, @UKLabour is once again becoming a force to be reckoned with and, as far as @Keir_Starmer is concerned, you ain't seen nothing yet.” Another said: "Thank goodness!!" READ MORE: How Brexit made Jeremy Corbyn ‘rewrite his OWN history’
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Jeremy Corbyn and Tahir Ali lost out
Keir Starmer has replaced Jeremy Corbyn as Labour leader
Keir Starmer has pledged to change the tide in the Labour Party
Labour appeared to change the tide when it elected Mr Starmer as its new leader back in April. Under veteran socialist Jeremy Corbyn the party of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown endured its worst election performance since 1935 in December, when infighting over strategy, a confused policy over Brexit and allegations of unchecked anti-Semitism turned traditional voters away. Mr Starmer, a former director of public prosecutions who was knighted in 2014 for services to law and criminal justice, has promised not to “oversteer” the party back to the centre.
Main reason for not sticking with Labour
But many who backed Mr Corbyn say they fear Mr Starmer will come under pressure to dispense with the former leader’s left-wing agenda and try to rebuild a membership base from the centre, changing the party back to something closer to the one led by Mr Blair, who was prime minister from 1997 to 2007. It comes after a shock new poll revealed Sir Keir is already more popular than Mr Johnson among British voters. The YouGov survey, which quizzed 1,674 UK adults from May 9 to May 10, showed the Labour leader has a net approval rating of +23, while Mr Johnson has seen his net approval rating fall to +22.
When asked how they thought Sir Keir was performing as leader of the Labour Party, 40 per cent said “very well” or “fairly well”, while 17 per cent said “very badly” or “fairly badly”. In contrast, the Prime Minister divides opinion more strongly, and while 57 percent think he is doing “very well” or “fairly well”, more than a third (35 percent) think he is doing “very badly” or “fairly badly”. It comes after John Macdonald, Head of Government Affairs at the Adam Smith Institute think tank, said there was "no doubt" Mr Starmer would be more popular than Mr Corbyn as Labour Party leader but has been warned that while this may save the opposition from "immediate oblivion" there is "only so long he can bank on not being the country's most disliked leader".


thedailyexpress--2020-05-30--Nicola Sturgeon's coronavirus briefing brutally mocked by comedian in hilarious spoof

In a remake of the First Minister of Scotland ’ s daily speeches , Godley suggested loved up couples should avoid “ hanky panky ” and instead should just use Facetime .
Responding to a question on what Scottish couples should do when meeting for the first time , Godley said : “ Well I ’ m awfy sorry but there ’ ll be nae rumpy pumpy or hanky panky .
“ They can pretend they ’ re in a Victorian novelet while they stand two metres apart like they used to do in the old days and somebody needed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they cannae get too close .
“ They should do that Facetime thing that young people do that I ’ ve heard happens.
” The funny clip has been viewed more than 80,000 times by fans on YouTube and was posted after the Scottish Government announced relaxed lockdown restrictions last Friday .
This will be the first weekend where lockdown measures have been eased to the point where people in Scotland can meet those from another household .
In her daily briefing yesterday , the First Minister reiterated her calls to ensure that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social distancing guidelines , as well as ensuring that items such as cutlery and food are not shared and people do not enter homes that are not their own .
She also asked that people avoid crowds at parks and beauty spots across the country , urging people to go elsewhere if areas are busy .
Ms Sturgeon said the changes would improve the lives of Scots , but added she was still `` nervous '' about the easing of measures .
READ MORE : Nicola Sturgeon urged to apologise for 'racism within @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not trying to cramp anyone 's fun but I am asking for you to do it responsibly .
`` If you are in doubt about whether your plans are within the rules or not , err on the side of caution .
`` However harsh these rules might feel right now , and I know that they do , abiding by them will never , ever be as harsh as grieving the loss of a loved one . ''
How Nicola Sturgeon and the SNP could provide final blow to monarchy [ OPINION @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new lockdown rules in UK ?
[ REVEAL ] Pressure on Boris as Scottish independence support surges [ REVEAL ] Announcing her first stage plan out of lockdown earlier this week , Ms Sturgeon said that garden centres and recycling facilities will reopen .
Meanwhile , some outdoor activities such as golf , fishing , tennis and bowls will be allowed again , as will outdoor work such as agriculture and forestry .
People will also be able to sit or sunbathe in parks and open areas , and will be able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ although only initially in small numbers and while they are outside .
Alongside this , people will be able to travel - preferably by walking or cycling - for recreation , although they will be asked to remain `` where possible '' within or close to their own local area .

Nicola Sturgeon’s briefing mocked by comedian in spoof
In a remake of the First Minister of Scotland’s daily speeches, Godley suggested loved up couples should avoid “hanky panky” and instead should just use Facetime. Responding to a question on what Scottish couples should do when meeting for the first time, Godley said: “Well I’m awfy sorry but there’ll be nae rumpy pumpy or hanky panky.
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“They can pretend they’re in a Victorian novelet while they stand two metres apart like they used to do in the old days and somebody needed a chaperone. “I mean, they cannae get too close. “They should do that Facetime thing that young people do that I’ve heard happens.” The funny clip has been viewed more than 80,000 times by fans on YouTube and was posted after the Scottish Government announced relaxed lockdown restrictions last Friday.
Nicola Sturgeon has been mocked by a Scottish comedian.
Janey Godley suggested should avoid having any form of sex.
This will be the first weekend where lockdown measures have been eased to the point where people in Scotland can meet those from another household. In her daily briefing yesterday, the First Minister reiterated her calls to ensure that any meetings with other households adhere to social distancing guidelines, as well as ensuring that items such as cutlery and food are not shared and people do not enter homes that are not their own. She also asked that people avoid crowds at parks and beauty spots across the country, urging people to go elsewhere if areas are busy. Ms Sturgeon said the changes would improve the lives of Scots, but added she was still "nervous" about the easing of measures. READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon urged to apologise for 'racism within ranks'
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The SNP leader is taking a more cautious approach to easing lockdown.
She said: "I'm not trying to cramp anyone's fun but I am asking for you to do it responsibly. "If you are in doubt about whether your plans are within the rules or not, err on the side of caution. "However harsh these rules might feel right now, and I know that they do, abiding by them will never, ever be as harsh as grieving the loss of a loved one." DON'T MISS: How Nicola Sturgeon and the SNP could provide final blow to monarchy [OPINION]
Lockdown rules: What are the new lockdown rules in UK? [REVEAL]
Pressure on Boris as Scottish independence support surges [REVEAL]
People enjoying the Sun in Edinburgh on Scotland's first day of relaxed measures.
Announcing her first stage plan out of lockdown earlier this week, Ms Sturgeon said that garden centres and recycling facilities will reopen. Meanwhile, some outdoor activities such as golf, fishing, tennis and bowls will be allowed again, as will outdoor work such as agriculture and forestry. People will also be able to sit or sunbathe in parks and open areas, and will be able to meet people from one other household - although only initially in small numbers and while they are outside. Alongside this, people will be able to travel - preferably by walking or cycling - for recreation, although they will be asked to remain "where possible" within or close to their own local area.
Comedian Janey Godley has been mocking the SNP leader.
Jane concluded her mocking of the First Minister, adding: “Anyway, guys we’re heading into the weekend and “I just want to thank you. “You’ve all been awesome. "We’re all doing our best. See you on Monday. Right I’m out of here.”
Nicola Sturgeon has said she won't be afraid of taking Scotland a different way out of lockdown.


thedailyexpress--2020-05-30--Humiliation for Jeremy Corbyn as he loses ballot to represent Labour at Council of Europe


thedailyexpress--2020-05-30--Barnier lashes out in spiteful rant claiming Brits 'struggling to accept' Brexit reality

Michel Barnier has accused the UK ’ s Brexit negotiating team of wanting the “ best of both worlds ” by retaining the conditions of being an EU member while leaving the single market and customs union .
The European Commission Head of Taskforce and the UK ’ s Brexit negotiator David Frost have so far held three rounds of talks without making a breakthrough , with discussions resuming next week .
In a wide-ranging interview with German radio station Deutschlandfunk , Mr Barnier said : “ The British have not understood or do not want to understand that Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too .
But also for them .
“ That after leaving the EU , they can not have the same conditions and status as when they were members of the European Union .
That is your choice .
“ It is difficult for them to accept the consequences of Brexit , there should be more realism in London in the near future if they want an orderly agreement to exit the single market and customs union.
” Following the third round of Brexit talks , the Government published its draft legal texts which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strike a free-trade deal with the European Union .
However the pathway to an agreement has been thwarted by the EU ’ s insistence on a so-called level-playing field on trade – meaning the UK would still be bound by some EU rules and regulations .
The UK and the EU have until July 1 to decide whether to extend the current negotiating period beyond December 31 for up to two years .
Downing Street has maintained the UK will honour the timeline – despite earlier this week Mr Barnier offering the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to opposition party leaders .
The EU chief has insisted it is down to the UK to shift in order for an agreement to be reached and has called for some “ realism ” .
Mr Barnier said : “ Only we will not make any progress there if the British continue to pick raisins and want the best of both worlds for themselves .
“ I was told the popular expression of the German language ‘ You can not dance on two weddings at the same time ’ .
“ This is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ European Union , but they want to keep all the advantages .
More realism is needed.
” READ MORE : Coronavirus map LIVE : Panic Boris moving 'TOO FAST ' to lift lockdown Earlier this week Mr Frost appeared in front of the Commons Committee on the Future Relationship with the European Union , and reiterated the EU must shift on its red-lines for a level playing field so the UK can strike a free-trade agreement .
He said : `` I think it 's fair to say that we have a fundamental @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the level playing field .
`` There are one or two areas that are slightly less controversial and problematic but in most of the important areas , there 's a big gap .
`` And he obviously is delivering the mandate he was given .
Member states regard the level playing field as very important .
Pubs to reopen in just FOUR WEEKS as beer gardens set for green light [ INSIGHT ] Witch-hunt is over , time to move on , says JUDY FINNIGAN [ COMMENT ] Brexit setback : Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ in blow to US-UK deal [ ANALYSIS ]

Brexit: Latest talks finished ‘without any progress’ says Barnier
Michel Barnier has accused the UK’s Brexit negotiating team of wanting the “best of both worlds” by retaining the conditions of being an EU member while leaving the single market and customs union. The European Commission Head of Taskforce and the UK’s Brexit negotiator David Frost have so far held three rounds of talks without making a breakthrough, with discussions resuming next week.
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In a wide-ranging interview with German radio station Deutschlandfunk, Mr Barnier said: “The British have not understood or do not want to understand that Brexit has consequences for them. For us too. But also for them. “That after leaving the EU, they cannot have the same conditions and status as when they were members of the European Union. That is your choice. “It is difficult for them to accept the consequences of Brexit, there should be more realism in London in the near future if they want an orderly agreement to exit the single market and customs union.”
Michel Barnier has continued his war of words with the UK over Brexit
Michel Barnier has warned the UK cannot have the best of both worlds
Following the third round of Brexit talks, the Government published its draft legal texts which outlined the UK’s plan to strike a free-trade deal with the European Union. However the pathway to an agreement has been thwarted by the EU’s insistence on a so-called level-playing field on trade – meaning the UK would still be bound by some EU rules and regulations. The UK and the EU have until July 1 to decide whether to extend the current negotiating period beyond December 31 for up to two years. Downing Street has maintained the UK will honour the timeline – despite earlier this week Mr Barnier offering the UK a 24 month delay in a letter to opposition party leaders.
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The UK's Brexit negotiator David Frost and Michel Barnier
The EU chief has insisted it is down to the UK to shift in order for an agreement to be reached and has called for some “realism”. Mr Barnier said: “Only we will not make any progress there if the British continue to pick raisins and want the best of both worlds for themselves. “I was told the popular expression of the German language ‘You cannot dance on two weddings at the same time’. “This is the attitude of the British leaving the European Union, but they want to keep all the advantages. More realism is needed.” READ MORE: Coronavirus map LIVE: Panic Boris moving 'TOO FAST' to lift lockdown
David Frost has called on the EU to drop its demand for a level playing field
Earlier this week Mr Frost appeared in front of the Commons Committee on the Future Relationship with the European Union, and reiterated the EU must shift on its red-lines for a level playing field so the UK can strike a free-trade agreement. He said: "I think it's fair to say that we have a fundamental disagreement at the moment on most aspects of the level playing field. "There are one or two areas that are slightly less controversial and problematic but in most of the important areas, there's a big gap. "And he obviously is delivering the mandate he was given. Member states regard the level playing field as very important. DON'T MISS Pubs to reopen in just FOUR WEEKS as beer gardens set for green light [INSIGHT]
Witch-hunt is over, time to move on, says JUDY FINNIGAN [COMMENT]
Brexit setback: Trump demands ‘can’t be met’ in blow to US-UK deal [ANALYSIS]
A timeline of Brexit talks between the UK and the EU