thedailyexpress--2020-02-23--Brexit-bashing civil servants deliberately attempted to sabotage UK's EU exit - EXCLUSIVE

The allegations made by a former contractor to the Department for Environment , Food and Rural Affairs ( Defra ) who worked in the EU Exit unit of the department .
The whistleblower , who worked in IT , said that a new computer service contract was put in place after the 2017 election .
But it was a downgrade unable to deal with the department ’ s existing work , let alone the increased demands of Brexit , he claimed .
The fresh workload from Brexit included fishing licences and control of rare materials like ivory among nine new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was based at Defra ’ s Digital Data and Technology Services ( DDTS ) department in Reading , said that as a result of him raising concerns about the computer system which is used to deliver Defra ’ s responsibilities a contract extension was cancelled and he was blacklisted from government work .
He also claimed that senior managers in Defra did not hide their contempt for Brexit and Boris Johnson , insulting the Prime Minister in front of junior employees when he appeared on departmental television screens during the election calling the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and twat ” .
The claims have been denied by Defra , however , former environment secretary Theresa Villiers has confirmed to the Sunday Express that she held a meeting about the allegations while still in office and ordered an investigation .
The meeting took place the day before the reshuffle where Ms Villiers lost her job , with senior Tory backbencher Andrew Bridgen and saw civil servants ordered to leave the room .
Ms Villiers told the Sunday Express : “ I was shocked and I asked for an investigation immediately.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Eustace to ask him to ensure the investigation happens .
And the Sunday Express has been told that the new environment secretary has requested a meeting with Mr Bridgen and the whistleblower .
A dossier has also been sent to the Prime Minister ’ s chief of staff Dominic Cummings who is running a recruitment campaign for new civil servants and warned senior mandarins that they “ need to work with us not against us ” .
They come amid growing tension between the government and the civil service , some of whom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Concerns were raised last week over civil servants resisting Home Secretary Priti Patel ’ s new immigration policy in the Home Office .
The whistleblower , who has nearly 20 years experience working for high level tech companies , warned that a switch of service contract in 2017 meant the system could not cope with its then current responsibilities , such as processing farm subsidy payments .
This was before a further nine responsibilities were transferred from the EU to be dealt with by DEFRA .
The department changed the contract to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while Michael Gove was environment secretary .
But the new contact also downscaled the old , the whistleblower said .
He said : “ The switch was like going from a Bentley to an old banger .
It was literally downscaling the IT support .
No two ways about it.
” According to the whistleblower , an early sign of the chaos emerged when he arrived at Defra and asked to see the contract .
After six weeks Defra was still unable to produce it .
In November 2019 a major incident took @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Telford , when another company logged on to a server owned by Capgemini and managed to break it .
The chaos lasted for three weeks .
The whistleblower said : “ It was all hands to the pump , there were directors involved because it went on for three weeks.
” Another problem was that the contract prevented Defra from fixing problems itself for anything other than the most serious failures .
According to the contractor there were at least 20 second level problems going on at any time and “ thousands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of which Defra could address itself .
He said : “ It was a big problem that we were not able to intervene and not normal practice.
” Shortly after starting with the department in September 2019 , the whistleblower was seconded to the EU Exit team where he was shocked by the lack of preparation .
“ It became clear to me under Theresa May there actually was zero preparation for Brexit .
When I came in they were literally at the early stages of preparing for Brexit .
“ They had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We were about six days away from [ EU departure date ] 31 October .
As you know the Benn Act changed things and the rest is history.
” The whistleblower ’ s contract was originally going to be extended to March 31 but on December 17 , the same day as he put in a critical report about the Capgemini arrangement , the extension was cancelled .
He also claims that Defra blacklisted him which prevented him getting a job with another government department which he had been due to interview @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are many good people there who just want to do a good job but everything I experienced gave the impression that some senior civil servants in key roles were happy for the system to fail because of their dislike of Brexit .
That was evidenced in their defence of the setup.
” “ For Brexit to be given a fair chance to succeed it can not be that the pro EU senior civil servants hinder the process by playing the age old game of keeping the Secretary of State blind to what 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the case .
“ The civil service is there to enact government policy and nothing more .
There are some fantastic civil servant 's who agree with everything I have said .
”

Brexit: Civil servant could sign off delay warns expert
The allegations made by a former contractor to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) who worked in the EU Exit unit of the department. The whistleblower, who worked in IT, said that a new computer service contract was put in place after the 2017 election. But it was a downgrade unable to deal with the department’s existing work, let alone the increased demands of Brexit, he claimed.
The fresh workload from Brexit included fishing licences and control of rare materials like ivory among nine new major responsibilities. The whistleblower, who was based at Defra’s Digital Data and Technology Services (DDTS) department in Reading, said that as a result of him raising concerns about the computer system which is used to deliver Defra’s responsibilities a contract extension was cancelled and he was blacklisted from government work. He also claimed that senior managers in Defra did not hide their contempt for Brexit and Boris Johnson, insulting the Prime Minister in front of junior employees when he appeared on departmental television screens during the election calling the Prime Minister a “w*****, bulls****** and twat”. The claims have been denied by Defra, however, former environment secretary Theresa Villiers has confirmed to the Sunday Express that she held a meeting about the allegations while still in office and ordered an investigation. The meeting took place the day before the reshuffle where Ms Villiers lost her job, with senior Tory backbencher Andrew Bridgen and saw civil servants ordered to leave the room. Ms Villiers told the Sunday Express: “I was shocked and I asked for an investigation immediately.” She has also asked her successor George Eustace to ask him to ensure the investigation happens.
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson
And the Sunday Express has been told that the new environment secretary has requested a meeting with Mr Bridgen and the whistleblower. A dossier has also been sent to the Prime Minister’s chief of staff Dominic Cummings who is running a recruitment campaign for new civil servants and warned senior mandarins that they “need to work with us not against us”. They come amid growing tension between the government and the civil service, some of whom ministers claim have tried to undermine Brexit. Concerns were raised last week over civil servants resisting Home Secretary Priti Patel’s new immigration policy in the Home Office. The whistleblower, who has nearly 20 years experience working for high level tech companies, warned that a switch of service contract in 2017 meant the system could not cope with its then current responsibilities, such as processing farm subsidy payments. This was before a further nine responsibilities were transferred from the EU to be dealt with by DEFRA. The department changed the contract to one run by French tech giant Capgemini while Michael Gove was environment secretary. But the new contact also downscaled the old, the whistleblower said. He said: “The switch was like going from a Bentley to an old banger. It was literally downscaling the IT support. No two ways about it.”
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According to the whistleblower, an early sign of the chaos emerged when he arrived at Defra and asked to see the contract. After six weeks Defra was still unable to produce it. In November 2019 a major incident took place at the department's data centre in Telford, when another company logged on to a server owned by Capgemini and managed to break it. The chaos lasted for three weeks. The whistleblower said: “It was all hands to the pump, there were directors involved because it went on for three weeks.” Another problem was that the contract prevented Defra from fixing problems itself for anything other than the most serious failures. According to the contractor there were at least 20 second level problems going on at any time and “thousands” of less serious issues, none of which Defra could address itself. He said: “It was a big problem that we were not able to intervene and not normal practice.” Shortly after starting with the department in September 2019, the whistleblower was seconded to the EU Exit team where he was shocked by the lack of preparation. “It became clear to me under Theresa May there actually was zero preparation for Brexit. When I came in they were literally at the early stages of preparing for Brexit.
Home Secretary Priti Patel
“They had one process alone they had 750 defects. We were about six days away from [EU departure date] 31 October. As you know the Benn Act changed things and the rest is history.” The whistleblower’s contract was originally going to be extended to March 31 but on December 17, the same day as he put in a critical report about the Capgemini arrangement, the extension was cancelled. He also claims that Defra blacklisted him which prevented him getting a job with another government department which he had been due to interview for. He said:"There are many good people there who just want to do a good job but everything I experienced gave the impression that some senior civil servants in key roles were happy for the system to fail because of their dislike of Brexit. That was evidenced in their defence of the setup.” “For Brexit to be given a fair chance to succeed it cannot be that the pro EU senior civil servants hinder the process by playing the age old game of keeping the Secretary of State blind to what's actually going on. And this is the case. “The civil service is there to enact government policy and nothing more. There are some fantastic civil servant's who agree with everything I have said.”
Brexit: Former civil servant says proroguing is ‘questionable’


thedailyexpress--2020-02-23--Fury as REAL cost of Big Ben bongs nowhere near £500k quoted for Brexit night

The House of Commons Commission , responsible for Parliament maintenance , has revealed the cost for the bell to ring on New Year ’ s Eve and Remembrance Sunday was £14,200 , half its original figure .
It had also come up with the huge figure for restoring Big Ben ’ s bongs for Brexit night , something that never happened .
Conservative MP Mark Francois , who was a leading campaigner for Big Ben to ring on Brexit night , said he would now take Commons estimates about the cost of restoring Parliament with a “ quarry full of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK will keep making EU contributions until 2064 A campaign was launched for Big Ben to ring on Brexit night Brexiteers donated £272,600 in an appeal by StandUp4Brexit to get the bell to chime .
But the commission said major works would be required to see the bell toll amid the Elizabeth Tower ’ s £80million restoration .
Mr Francois said : “ How very convenient that , three weeks after Brexit night , the House authorities reveal that they overestimated the costs of Big Ben chiming on Remembrance Sunday and New Year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now take their cost estimates for the considerably larger Palace of Westminster Restoration and Renewal Project with a quarry full of salt.
” A multi-billion pound restoration of the Palace is due to begin around 2025 .

The House of Commons Commission, responsible for Parliament maintenance, has revealed the cost for the bell to ring on New Year’s Eve and Remembrance Sunday was £14,200, half its original figure. It had also come up with the huge figure for restoring Big Ben’s bongs for Brexit night, something that never happened. Conservative MP Mark Francois, who was a leading campaigner for Big Ben to ring on Brexit night, said he would now take Commons estimates about the cost of restoring Parliament with a “quarry full of salt”.
Brexit betrayal: How UK will keep making EU contributions until 2064
A campaign was launched for Big Ben to ring on Brexit night
Brexiteers donated £272,600 in an appeal by StandUp4Brexit to get the bell to chime. But the commission said major works would be required to see the bell toll amid the Elizabeth Tower’s £80million restoration.
Mr Francois said: “How very convenient that, three weeks after Brexit night, the House authorities reveal that they overestimated the costs of Big Ben chiming on Remembrance Sunday and New Year’s Eve.
“We can now take their cost estimates for the considerably larger Palace of Westminster Restoration and Renewal Project with a quarry full of salt.”
A multi-billion pound restoration of the Palace is due to begin around 2025.


thedailyexpress--2020-02-23--Boris Johnson to SELL OFF Channel 4 ‘no business for public to own it’

The move was first mooted ahead of the election and comes at a time when the “ left-wing ” broadcaster has been boycotted by ministers and been at the centre of a series of rows with the Government .
Downing Street last night denied that a final decision has been made on the fate of Channel 4 but it is known that relations still languish at an all-time low with the broadcaster .
A well-placed Conservative MP said : “ Boris has privately confirmed that he will definitely privatise Channel 4 .
He thinks it ’ s a great idea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the public to own it anyway.
” Relations with Channel 4 began to sour when the broadcaster ’ s head of news Dorothy Byrne gave a controversial speech at the Edinburgh Festival in which she called Mr Johnson “ a proven liar ” .
Since then , the Prime Minister has refused to give interviews to Channel 4 and cancelled a planned interview during the Tory Party conference in October last year .
He also snubbed Channel 4 ’ s leaders ’ debate on climate change – which prompted producers to put an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ melted during the live broadcast .
Soon after , Channel 4 was forced to apologise to Mr Johnson after it falsely tweeted that he had talked about “ people of colour ” rather than “ people of talent ” in a speech on immigration .
There was also anger over the news coverage fronted by veteran presenter Jon Snow who had been accused of joining in a foul-mouth chant against the Tories at the 2017 Glastonbury festival .

The move was first mooted ahead of the election and comes at a time when the “left-wing” broadcaster has been boycotted by ministers and been at the centre of a series of rows with the Government. Downing Street last night denied that a final decision has been made on the fate of Channel 4 but it is known that relations still languish at an all-time low with the broadcaster. A well-placed Conservative MP said: “Boris has privately confirmed that he will definitely privatise Channel 4. He thinks it’s a great idea.
“There is no business for the public to own it anyway.”
Relations with Channel 4 began to sour when the broadcaster’s head of news Dorothy Byrne gave a controversial speech at the Edinburgh Festival in which she called Mr Johnson “a proven liar”.
Since then, the Prime Minister has refused to give interviews to Channel 4 and cancelled a planned interview during the Tory Party conference in October last year.
He also snubbed Channel 4’s leaders’ debate on climate change – which prompted producers to put an ice sculpture in his place, which melted during the live broadcast.
Soon after, Channel 4 was forced to apologise to Mr Johnson after it falsely tweeted that he had talked about “people of colour” rather than “people of talent” in a speech on immigration.
There was also anger over the news coverage fronted by veteran presenter Jon Snow who had been accused of joining in a foul-mouth chant against the Tories at the 2017 Glastonbury festival.


thedailyexpress--2020-02-23--Labour has no God-given right to exist, says Lisa Nandy MP

Nandy , the MP for Wigan , goes up against rivals Sir Keir Starmer and Rebecca Long-Bailey as party members start voting tomorrow before the new leader is unveiled on April 4 .
Whoever wins faces a huge task in rebuilding the party that suffered its worst electoral defeat since 1935 at the last general election .
And , talking to the Sunday Express , she admits the party faces a huge fight for survival .
“ We [ the party ] don ’ t have a God-given right to exist .
We ’ ve got to show that we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ The sense people have in Wigan and many similar towns across the country is that they haven ’ t left Labour , Labour has left them .
“ It ’ s not even that we ’ re too radical – for a lot of people we ’ re just not relevant .
“ And worse , not only did we not understand the reality of people ’ s lives but quite often we were disrespectful.
” This lack of respect struck at the very core of traditional Labour voters and saw the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ December ’ s election in previously safe seats .
“ A lot of voters who have been with Labour for generations , and many Express readers , will have felt that this has been a long time coming and the fact that we didn ’ t see it coming shows how disconnected we ’ ve been .
“ We get one more chance at setting this right and it starts right now .
That ’ s why I ’ m standing in the leadership contest.
” It ’ s not just Brexit and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jeremy Corbyn who turned off hundreds of thousands of Labour voters .
“ A lot of my constituents over the last few years have felt strongly that this Labour Party has not been proud of the country and that we don ’ t stand up for our Armed Forces .
They send their children off to fight in war and sometimes , twice since I ’ ve been an MP , they don ’ t come back .
“ On Remembrance Day the very least I and any Labour politician can do is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part , pay our respects , and be proud of the contribution they make to this country and their sacrifice.
” Patriotism is one thing , but the monarchy is another for 40-year-old Nandy .
In a TV debate last week she revealed she would scrap the institution .
“ I was very clear that abolishing the monarchy would not be my priority as leader of the Labour Party and prime minister .
I answer questions honestly .
“ I represent a town where people are broadly very supportive of the monarchy and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work ethic and for the stability she brings to Britain .
But I am a democrat and hereditary monarchy and an unelected House of Lords has never sat right with me.
” Boris Johnson ’ s sunny optimism is a powerful electoral tool .
Could she bring that to Labour and cut back on some of the Corbyn moaning ?
“ There ’ s only been three times we ’ ve won power and it ’ s been when we ’ ve had that ambitious , optimistic story to tell about the future @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , then university in Newcastle , Nandy has been MP for Wigan since 2010 .
Her pride in British history extends to the coal mining background of her constituency .
“ I get quite frustrated about people talking about the ‘ dirty ’ coal industry .
It is profoundly offensive .
The contribution we made has to be recognised and valued.
” She is backing the Wigan Heritage and Mining Monument campaign to get a statue in the town showing a miner and his family , due to be unveiled next month .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ money for it , so if Express readers would like to chip in , we would be very grateful , ” she smiles .
As a former shadow energy minister , she is keen on the possibility of new , clean energy to bring green jobs to Wigan and the rest of the North and Midlands , replacing jobs lost in carbon-based industries .
But she is sensible enough to understand that going too far too fast could cause problems for many working people .
“ The way in which [ New Labour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ schemes on to people ’ s energy bills left the poorest paying six times as much as the richest and made it completely unsustainable .
We ’ ve got to learn the lessons from that.
” She is frustrated debate over transgender rights has dominated recent coverage of the leadership contest .
“ You lot keep asking about it , present company excepted.
” She argues that the liberal elite media is like the current Labour Party , hung up on issues that do not mean much to the rest of the country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very small group of people who are determining what gets reported and debated in this country .
It ’ s a very different media to what most of my constituents read .
They read the Express , Mirror and local newspapers .
The disconnect with the rest of the media is really huge.
” That includes transport.
“ I ’ ve been talking about trains and buses for 10 years .
Most of my constituents are travelling into Manchester every day on trains that are older than I am.
” She is keen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into public ownership but with decisions made on a local level .
It ’ s time for a female Labour leader too , but with Keir Starmer the current favourite , is Lisa playing the long game ?
Raising her profile this time , ready to pounce when Starmer loses against Boris in five years ?
“ No .
I launched this election campaign by saying Labour must change or die .
It ’ s that serious .
We get one more chance at setting this right – and it starts now .
@

Labour: Lisa Nandy admits party 'hasn’t learned its lessons'
Nandy, the MP for Wigan, goes up against rivals Sir Keir Starmer and Rebecca Long-Bailey as party members start voting tomorrow before the new leader is unveiled on April 4. Whoever wins faces a huge task in rebuilding the party that suffered its worst electoral defeat since 1935 at the last general election. And, talking to the Sunday Express, she admits the party faces a huge fight for survival.
“We [the party] don’t have a God-given right to exist. We’ve got to show that we’ve understood this right now. “The sense people have in Wigan and many similar towns across the country is that they haven’t left Labour, Labour has left them. “It’s not even that we’re too radical – for a lot of people we’re just not relevant. “And worse, not only did we not understand the reality of people’s lives but quite often we were disrespectful.” This lack of respect struck at the very core of traditional Labour voters and saw the “red wall” crumble at last December’s election in previously safe seats. “A lot of voters who have been with Labour for generations, and many Express readers, will have felt that this has been a long time coming and the fact that we didn’t see it coming shows how disconnected we’ve been. “We get one more chance at setting this right and it starts right now. That’s why I’m standing in the leadership contest.”
Labour leadership candidate Lisa Nandy
It’s not just Brexit and it’s not just current leader Jeremy Corbyn who turned off hundreds of thousands of Labour voters. “A lot of my constituents over the last few years have felt strongly that this Labour Party has not been proud of the country and that we don’t stand up for our Armed Forces. They send their children off to fight in war and sometimes, twice since I’ve been an MP, they don’t come back. “On Remembrance Day the very least I and any Labour politician can do is turn up, be smart, take part, pay our respects, and be proud of the contribution they make to this country and their sacrifice.” Patriotism is one thing, but the monarchy is another for 40-year-old Nandy. In a TV debate last week she revealed she would scrap the institution. “I was very clear that abolishing the monarchy would not be my priority as leader of the Labour Party and prime minister. I answer questions honestly. “I represent a town where people are broadly very supportive of the monarchy and admire the Queen in particular for her work ethic and for the stability she brings to Britain. But I am a democrat and hereditary monarchy and an unelected House of Lords has never sat right with me.”
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Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn
Boris Johnson’s sunny optimism is a powerful electoral tool. Could she bring that to Labour and cut back on some of the Corbyn moaning? “There’s only been three times we’ve won power and it’s been when we’ve had that ambitious, optimistic story to tell about the future of Britain.” Brought up in Manchester, then university in Newcastle, Nandy has been MP for Wigan since 2010. Her pride in British history extends to the coal mining background of her constituency. “I get quite frustrated about people talking about the ‘dirty’ coal industry. It is profoundly offensive. The contribution we made has to be recognised and valued.” She is backing the Wigan Heritage and Mining Monument campaign to get a statue in the town showing a miner and his family, due to be unveiled next month. “We still need a bit of money for it, so if Express readers would like to chip in, we would be very grateful,” she smiles. As a former shadow energy minister, she is keen on the possibility of new, clean energy to bring green jobs to Wigan and the rest of the North and Midlands, replacing jobs lost in carbon-based industries. But she is sensible enough to understand that going too far too fast could cause problems for many working people.
Model of statue commemorating Wigan’s mining families to be unveiled by Lisa Nandy in town centre


thedailyexpress--2020-02-22--Labour leadership election means anti-Semitism crisis STILL a huge problem in party

A complaint has been made about the party ’ s front-runner to become the next BAME ( black , Asian and minority ethnic people ) representative for Labour ’ s ruling body , who shared a cartoon that was claimed to have been anti-Semitic .
Mehmood Mirza , vice chairman of the West Ham Labour Party , is alleged to have shared a cartoon showing a sticker with the words ‘ Anti-Semitism ’ placed across the mouth of a man who has a ‘ Free Palestine ’ band around his head .
The image , posted onto Mr Mirza ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brazilian artists Carlos Latuff , who was previously accused of creating anti-Semetic content .
The complaint was made in October of last year .
Veteran Labour MP Margaret Hodge said until a new Labour leader is elected in two months ’ time , attempts at fixing the anti-Semitism crisis will be futile , the Daily Telegraph reports .
She said : “ I would expect the new leader , as they have all promised in the hustings , to fulfil their promises and make sure people like him , with those views , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Her views echo those of John Mann , who advises the Government on issues of anti-Semitism .
He said that the manner in which the complaint is dealt with by Labour will be “ a test of how serious and sincere the Labour Party has become about tackling anti-Semitism ” .

Tony Blair discusses voters who abandoned Labour
A complaint has been made about the party’s front-runner to become the next BAME (black, Asian and minority ethnic people) representative for Labour’s ruling body, who shared a cartoon that was claimed to have been anti-Semitic. Mehmood Mirza, vice chairman of the West Ham Labour Party, is alleged to have shared a cartoon showing a sticker with the words ‘Anti-Semitism’ placed across the mouth of a man who has a ‘Free Palestine’ band around his head. The image, posted onto Mr Mirza’s Facebook account, was created by Brazilian artists Carlos Latuff, who was previously accused of creating anti-Semetic content.
The complaint was made in October of last year. Veteran Labour MP Margaret Hodge said until a new Labour leader is elected in two months’ time, attempts at fixing the anti-Semitism crisis will be futile, the Daily Telegraph reports. She said: “I would expect the new leader, as they have all promised in the hustings, to fulfil their promises and make sure people like him, with those views, have no place on the National Executive.” Her views echo those of John Mann, who advises the Government on issues of anti-Semitism. He said that the manner in which the complaint is dealt with by Labour will be “a test of how serious and sincere the Labour Party has become about tackling anti-Semitism”.
Mehmood Mirza, vice chairman of the West Ham Labour Party, pictured with Mr Corbyn
Mr Corbyn has stood down as leader
Express.co.uk contacted Labour and Mr Mirza for a statement. It comes a week after Momentum members have revealed what they really think about the Labour Party's anti-Semitism crisis in a new poll. A poll by Lord Ashcroft has revealed that 92 percent of Momentum members think that anti-Semitism in the Labour party is 'wildly exaggerated’. The results saw Momentum members blame the party’s opponents for exaggerating the problem rather than acknowledging the issue within the party they support. The poll revealed members of pro-Corbyn campaign group are more likely than other Labour members to think anti-Semitism in the party was "wildly exaggerated" by the party's opponents. READ NOW: Sadiq Khan admits he’s been texting unlikely ally Sajid Javid [NEWS]
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The leadership race will not be wrapped up until April
Findings revealed a total of 92 percent of Momentum members agreed with the statement that anti-Semitism in the party was "wildly exaggerated by right-wing media and opponents of Jeremy Corbyn". Just six percent of Momentum members felt anti-Semitism "was a real issue" in the party. The poll also showed those who had backed Jeremy Corbyn in both leadership elections were far likelier to blame the media and political opponents for the anti-Semitism issue. A total of 39 percent who backed Mr Corbyn agreed the Jew-hate issue was entirely the fault of the right-wing media and his opponents. In contrast just five per cent who backed Owen Smith in 2016 and just four per cent who backed Liz Kendall in 2015 blamed the right-wing media and Mr Corbyn’s opponents. DON'T MISS:
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-22--‘This ain’t Costa!’ Ex-Labour MP Fiona Onasanya moans about lack of almond milk in jail

Onasanya , 36 , was jailed for three months in January but served just one month after being convicted of lying to police about a speeding ticket .
She used her time to pen a 122-page memoir about how there was a lack of almond milk and the “ measly meals ” on offer such as spaghetti hoops during her time behind bars .
She has since called her book Snakes and Adders She claimed in one passage she was mocked at breakfast when she asked for almond milk , only to be met with jeers as one inmate shouted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” She also complained about “ measly meals like spaghetti hoops ” and a lack of sleep .
She now hopes to become a voice for women who have spent time behind bars .
One passage of the memoirs reads : “ I remember the board game snakes and ladders and thinking it is quite symbolic .
“ This journey called life is full of peaks and troughs , but this was something very different .
“ No-one tells you that at the top of ladders can be a pit of adders !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ only venomous snake but in the world of politics , I think there are two types which comes disguised as what I will call constituents and comrades !
!
“ I am referring to constituents as those people who share your ideals and support your vision but do not necessarily support you.
” She added : “ Neither group should be considered confidants anymore than Adders should be considered ladders !
” The former solicitor , who was struck off in August , also said she helped inmates write legal letters .
READ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ why Boris Johnson was branded ‘ racist ' [ NEWS ] Onasanya hit headlines in December for comparing herself to Jesus when she was convicted at the Old Bailey .
In a text message to her fellow Labour MPs , she wrote : “ I am in good Biblical company along with Joseph , Moses , Daniel and his three Hebrew friends who were each found guilty by the courts of their day .
“ Of course this is equally true of Christ who was accused and convicted by the courts of his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Labour MP following her guilty verdict and then faced a by-election .
Despite standing as an independent , the incumbent lost her seat as Labour won with new candidate Lisa Forbes .
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GMB: Kate Garraway tells guest ‘don’t storm off’
Onasanya, 36, was jailed for three months in January but served just one month after being convicted of lying to police about a speeding ticket. She used her time to pen a 122-page memoir about how there was a lack of almond milk and the “measly meals” on offer such as spaghetti hoops during her time behind bars. She has since called her book Snakes and Adders
She claimed in one passage she was mocked at breakfast when she asked for almond milk, only to be met with jeers as one inmate shouted: “This ain't Costa!” She also complained about “measly meals like spaghetti hoops” and a lack of sleep. She now hopes to become a voice for women who have spent time behind bars. One passage of the memoirs reads: “I remember the board game snakes and ladders and thinking it is quite symbolic. “This journey called life is full of peaks and troughs, but this was something very different.
Fiona Onasanya penned a memoir about her struggles
Onasanya hit headlines in December for comparing herself to Jesus
“No-one tells you that at the top of ladders can be a pit of adders!!! “Adders are Britain's only venomous snake but in the world of politics, I think there are two types which comes disguised as what I will call constituents and comrades!! “I am referring to constituents as those people who share your ideals and support your vision but do not necessarily support you.” She added: “Neither group should be considered confidants anymore than Adders should be considered ladders!” The former solicitor, who was struck off in August, also said she helped inmates write legal letters. READ NOW: Sadiq Khan ‘understands’ why Boris Johnson was branded ‘racist' [NEWS]
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Ms Forbes was grilled over allegations of anti-Semitism
Onasanya hit headlines in December for comparing herself to Jesus when she was convicted at the Old Bailey. In a text message to her fellow Labour MPs, she wrote: “I am in good Biblical company along with Joseph, Moses, Daniel and his three Hebrew friends who were each found guilty by the courts of their day. “Of course this is equally true of Christ who was accused and convicted by the courts of his day.” Onasanya was sacked as a Labour MP following her guilty verdict and then faced a by-election. Despite standing as an independent, the incumbent lost her seat as Labour won with new candidate Lisa Forbes. DON'T MISS:
Sadiq Khan admits he’s been texting unlikely ally Sajid Javid [NEWS]
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Emily Thornberry is out of the leadership race
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-22--Nicola Sturgeon confronted with the 10 huge hurdles destroying Scottish independence dream

Boris Johnson has continued to reject the possibility of a repeat vote on independence - five-and-a-half years after the Scottish people voted to remain part of Britain by a margin of 55 percent to 45 percent .
But the SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon has continued her independence calls , especially following Brexit , which she claims happened against the wishes of the Scottish people , who largely voted to remain part of the European Union in 2016 .
Last month a poll from YouGov , which quizzed 1,039 UK adults in Scotland from January 22-27 , revealed support for independence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by 51 percent to 49 percent - the pollster ’ s first independence lead since early 2015 .
But speaking to Express.co.uk , Eliot Wilson , who was clerk of the House of Commons Scottish Affairs Committee in the run-up to the independence referendum in 2014 , has destroyed Scottish independence hopes by outlining 10 huge stumbling blocks .
“ The SNP ’ s line for years has been that economic policy is decided in Westminster , remote from the people of Scotland and indifferent to their particular needs .
“ But leaving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ signing up to the single currency ( a requirement of the application process ) would surely transfer the levers of economic power yet further away to the Commission in Brussels and to the European Central Bank .
“ If the circumstances and cycles of Scotland don ’ t coincide with those of London , they will do so even less with a bloc of 27 other countries .
“ Equally , Scotland would be leaving a tariff-free single market with the rest of the UK , its biggest trading partner.
” “ If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it would need to pledge to use the single currency , but Scotland does not yet fulfil the requirements for membership .
“ The SNP sometimes says it would simply remain in a sterling zone , but to do so purely as a “ customer ” , the way some central American countries use the US dollar , would be to place yourself yet further at the mercy of outside economic factors .
“ The residual United Kingdom would be under no obligation to consider Scotland and its needs when deciding interest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Scotland is already much more dependent than England on employment in the public sector , which is therefore paid for directly by taxation .
“ A contraction in public spending after independence ( which has to be at least a strong possibility ) would have a direct effect on the jobs market.
” “ The UK is not going to tolerate Scotland simply walking away from the shared deficit and other liabilities .
“ How these are calculated and divided is anyone ’ s guess , but they represent a serious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country ( as Scotland , with a population of six million , would be ) .
“ Again , the new independent state would have far less control over the economic weather , with no central bank , no independent currency , uncertain international alliances and a structurally outdated economic system dependent on public spending .
You would be creating a small state with a pre-existing heavy debt burden.
” “ Small countries can go it alone - Austria , Albania , Belgium , North Macedonia - but they are generally unable to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ big-ticket items like fast jets , main battle tanks and destroyers are extremely expensive .
“ A Scottish navy would likely only be maintainable for the defence of coastal waters , an army would have very limited out-of-area expeditionary capacity , and a small , limited aviation capability .
“ Additionally , the Royal Navy would almost certainly not buy from the Govan shipyards if they were in a foreign country , which would raise serious questions over their future and the BAE footprint in Scotland .
“ Also , would Scotland want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accept them if the UK nuclear submarines were expelled from Scotland on day one ?
” DO N'T MISS Nicola Sturgeon admits Scottish independence panic [ COMMENT ] Why Sturgeon is REALLY pushing for Scottish independence [ ANALYSIS ] 'SNP is a cult ' Nicola Sturgeon savaged as new Scottish Tory leader [ INTERVIEW ] “ The Commission has been projecting ‘ mood music ’ that Scotland would be eagerly welcomed back into the fold , but accession to the EU requires unanimity of all remaining 27 countries , each with different concerns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their own ( like Spain , Belgium and Italy ) .
“ Other states are already in the queue , and there are some financial tests which Scotland would probably not currently pass .
“ It may end up as a collision between head and heart - in any event , Scotland rejoining the EU after independence can not be taken for granted.
” “ It is generally felt that the Common Fisheries Policy ( CFP ) did not represent a fair deal for Scottish fisherman , yet this is exactly what Scotland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sought to rejoin the EU after independence .
“ Tell that to Leave voters in Peterhead and Fraserburgh .
”

Scotland 'does not want Indyref2' says Jackson Carlaw
Boris Johnson has continued to reject the possibility of a repeat vote on independence - five-and-a-half years after the Scottish people voted to remain part of Britain by a margin of 55 percent to 45 percent. But the SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon has continued her independence calls, especially following Brexit, which she claims happened against the wishes of the Scottish people, who largely voted to remain part of the European Union in 2016. Last month a poll from YouGov, which quizzed 1,039 UK adults in Scotland from January 22-27, revealed support for independence led supporting for remaining in the UK by 51 percent to 49 percent - the pollster’s first independence lead since early 2015.
But speaking to Express.co.uk, Eliot Wilson, who was clerk of the House of Commons Scottish Affairs Committee in the run-up to the independence referendum in 2014, has destroyed Scottish independence hopes by outlining 10 huge stumbling blocks. Economic policy “The SNP’s line for years has been that economic policy is decided in Westminster, remote from the people of Scotland and indifferent to their particular needs. “But leaving the UK, re-joining the EU and signing up to the single currency (a requirement of the application process) would surely transfer the levers of economic power yet further away to the Commission in Brussels and to the European Central Bank. “If the circumstances and cycles of Scotland don’t coincide with those of London, they will do so even less with a bloc of 27 other countries. “Equally, Scotland would be leaving a tariff-free single market with the rest of the UK, its biggest trading partner.” Currency “The Scottish Government simply hasn’t delivered a convincing policy on this. “If it joined the queue for the EU, it would need to pledge to use the single currency, but Scotland does not yet fulfil the requirements for membership. “The SNP sometimes says it would simply remain in a sterling zone, but to do so purely as a “customer”, the way some central American countries use the US dollar, would be to place yourself yet further at the mercy of outside economic factors. “The residual United Kingdom would be under no obligation to consider Scotland and its needs when deciding interest rates and other levers of economic policy.
Nicola Sturgeon's plans for Scottish independence has been torn apart
Nicola Sturgeon has continued her demands for a second referendum on Scottish independence
Employment “Scotland is already much more dependent than England on employment in the public sector, which is therefore paid for directly by taxation. “A contraction in public spending after independence (which has to be at least a strong possibility) would have a direct effect on the jobs market.” The deficit “The UK is not going to tolerate Scotland simply walking away from the shared deficit and other liabilities. “How these are calculated and divided is anyone’s guess, but they represent a serious burden for the economy of a small country (as Scotland, with a population of six million, would be). “Again, the new independent state would have far less control over the economic weather, with no central bank, no independent currency, uncertain international alliances and a structurally outdated economic system dependent on public spending. You would be creating a small state with a pre-existing heavy debt burden.” READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon’s shameless ‘Project Fear’ campaign exposed
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Scotland's First Minister has said Brexit happened against the wishes of the Scottish people
Security policy “Small countries can go it alone - Austria, Albania, Belgium, North Macedonia - but they are generally unable to maintain a full-spectrum-response military establishment, and big-ticket items like fast jets, main battle tanks and destroyers are extremely expensive. “A Scottish navy would likely only be maintainable for the defence of coastal waters, an army would have very limited out-of-area expeditionary capacity, and a small, limited aviation capability. “Additionally, the Royal Navy would almost certainly not buy from the Govan shipyards if they were in a foreign country, which would raise serious questions over their future and the BAE footprint in Scotland. “Also, would Scotland want to be in NATO? Would NATO accept them if the UK nuclear submarines were expelled from Scotland on day one?” DON'T MISS
Nicola Sturgeon admits Scottish independence panic [COMMENT]
Why Sturgeon is REALLY pushing for Scottish independence [ANALYSIS]
'SNP is a cult' Nicola Sturgeon savaged as new Scottish Tory leader [INTERVIEW]
Boris Johnson has continued to reject cals from the SNP for a second independence referendum
The Prime Minister will not grant the relevant powers to the Scottish Parliament for a referendum
Accession to the EU “The Commission has been projecting ‘mood music’ that Scotland would be eagerly welcomed back into the fold, but accession to the EU requires unanimity of all remaining 27 countries, each with different concerns, and some facing separatist crises of their own (like Spain, Belgium and Italy). “Other states are already in the queue, and there are some financial tests which Scotland would probably not currently pass. “It may end up as a collision between head and heart - in any event, Scotland rejoining the EU after independence cannot be taken for granted.” Fisheries “It is generally felt that the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) did not represent a fair deal for Scottish fisherman, yet this is exactly what Scotland would be buying back into if it sought to rejoin the EU after independence. “Tell that to Leave voters in Peterhead and Fraserburgh.”
Scottish people are still largely divided over independence
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-23--Diane Abbott to STAND DOWN: Shadow Home Secretary says she won't be in next Labour Cabinet

Diane Abbott , who supports Rebecca Long-Bailey to be the next Labour leader , said she will be stepping down when a new leader is elected .
The Shadow Home Secretary said she will be returning to the backbenches as the next leader must “ construct their own shadow cabinet ” .
Ms Abbott was asked whether she would serve in the next leader ’ s Shadow Cabinet after outgoing leader Jeremy Corbyn said he would happily serve under Rebecca Long-Bailey .
Speaking to Sophy Ridge on Sky News , Ms Abbott said : “ I will be stepping down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , they have to be able to construct their own shadow cabinet .
“ I was a backbencher for a few years and there ’ s an awful lot to do on the backbenches .
“ One of the things that I will want to do is make sure we don ’ t make a swerve to the right on migration policy .
“ I think that ’ s a dead-end for the Labour Party .
“ We have to stand by our principles and stand by our values and make sure we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and workable.
” In the show , she also addressed her claims former Speaker John Bercow could n't have intimidated Black Rod after she called David Leakey 's bullying claims `` unlikely '' on Twitter .
Ms Abbott has faced backlash after suggesting on Twitter that parliamentary official David Leakey couldn ’ t be bullied after being in the army .
She fiercely defended her tweet regarding David Leakey 's claim that he was bullied by Mr Bercow .
In a post on social media , which has since been deleted , Ms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Allegations come from the former parliamentary official David Leakey .
“ He had been a Lieutenant General who served in Germany , Northern Ireland and Bosnia .
But claims he was bullied i.e intimidated and coerced by John Bercow .
Unlikely . ''
Speaking to Sophy Ridge on Sunday , Ms Abbott said : “ Anybody can be bullied .
Anybody of any age or any profession can be bullied .
“ I think intimidating Leakey is one thing but of course anyone can be bullied.
” Ms Ridge asked : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can ’ t they ?
” Sadiq Khan issues WARNING Labour could LOSE crunch London Mayor race [ INSIGHT ] Labour leadership contest odds : Who will win ?
A look at the candidates [ INSIGHT ] ' I 'm not sure they are ! '
Portillo cuts down Labour MP over BBC comment [ VIDEO ]

Labour leadership: Diane Abbott to leave shadow cabinet
Diane Abbott, who supports Rebecca Long-Bailey to be the next Labour leader, said she will be stepping down when a new leader is elected. The Shadow Home Secretary said she will be returning to the backbenches as the next leader must “construct their own shadow cabinet”. Ms Abbott was asked whether she would serve in the next leader’s Shadow Cabinet after outgoing leader Jeremy Corbyn said he would happily serve under Rebecca Long-Bailey.
Speaking to Sophy Ridge on Sky News, Ms Abbott said: “I will be stepping down because I think that the new leader, they have to be able to construct their own shadow cabinet. “I was a backbencher for a few years and there’s an awful lot to do on the backbenches. “One of the things that I will want to do is make sure we don’t make a swerve to the right on migration policy. “I think that’s a dead-end for the Labour Party. READ MORE: Labour leadership race means anti-Semitism crisis STILL a huge problem
Diane Abbott said she will stand down from frontline politics
Diane Abbott supports Rebecca Long-Bailey to be the next Labour leader
“We have to stand by our principles and stand by our values and make sure we have an immigration policy which is fair and workable.” In the show, she also addressed her claims former Speaker John Bercow couldn't have intimidated Black Rod after she called David Leakey's bullying claims "unlikely" on Twitter. Ms Abbott has faced backlash after suggesting on Twitter that parliamentary official David Leakey couldn’t be bullied after being in the army. She fiercely defended her tweet regarding David Leakey's claim that he was bullied by Mr Bercow. In a post on social media, which has since been deleted, Ms Abbott said regarding the bullying allegations: "Allegations come from the former parliamentary official David Leakey.
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Diane Abbott addressed her claims former Speaker John Bercow couldn't have intimidated Black Rod
John Bercow 'unlikely' to have intimidated Leakey says Abbott
Labour chart
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-23--Nicola Sturgeon confronted with the 10 huge hurdles destroying Scottish independence dream


thedailyexpress--2020-02-23--‘You can’t blame New Labour’ Diane Abbott says Labour support plunged under Blair

Diane Abbott was questioned over Labour ’ s humiliating defeat in the December general election after some safe Labour seats @ @ @ @ @ time in history .
The Shadow Home Secretary has insisted Tony Blair is partly to @ @ @ @ @ of Labour support in the north started before Jeremy Corbyn ’ s leadership .
Diane @ @ @ @ @ Shadow Home Secretary says she wo n't be in Speaking to Sophy Ridge on Sky @ @ @ @ @ : “ Some of the causes of our loss particularly the erosion of our vote @ @ @ @ @ the Jeremy Corbyn leadership .
“ The erosion in our support in some of those @ @ @ @ @ new Labour.
” Ms Ridge interjected : “ But at the same time the Labour @ @ @ @ @ won in 1997.
” Ms Abbott continued : “ He did win but the vote @ @ @ @ @ to do so.
” READ MORE : Labour has no God-given right to exist , @ @ @ @

Diane Abbott: Election loss can't be blamed 'entirely' on Corbyn
Diane Abbott was questioned over Labour’s humiliating defeat in the December general election after some safe Labour seats turned Conservative for the first time in history. The Shadow Home Secretary has insisted Tony Blair is partly to blame as she claimed erosion of Labour support in the north started before Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership.
Speaking to Sophy Ridge on Sky News, Ms Abbott said: “Some of the causes of our loss particularly the erosion of our vote in the north actually pre-date the Jeremy Corbyn leadership. “The erosion in our support in some of those communities was going on under new Labour.” Ms Ridge interjected: “But at the same time the Labour support is what Tony Blair won in 1997.” Ms Abbott continued: “He did win but the vote was eroding and it continued to do so.” READ MORE: Labour has no God-given right to exist, says Lisa Nandy MP
Diane Abbott has claimed Labour support began to suffer under former Prime Minister Tony Blair
Diane Abbott was questioned over Labour’s humiliating defeat in the December general election
The Sky News host said: “You can’t blame New Labour, surely?” The Hackney North MP said: “This was our fourth failure to win an election on the trot. “You can’t blame it entirely on the Corbyn leadership. In the show, she also addressed her claims former Speaker John Bercow couldn't have intimidated Black Rod after she called David Leakey's bullying claims "unlikely" on Twitter.
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Diane Abbott insisted Tony Blair is partly to blame
Labour leadership: Diane Abbott to leave shadow cabinet
Ms Abbott has faced backlash after suggesting on Twitter that parliamentary official David Leakey couldn’t be bullied after being in the army. She fiercely defended her tweet regarding David Leakey's claim that he was bullied by Mr Bercow. In a post on social media, which has since been deleted, Ms Abbott said regarding the bullying allegations: "Allegations come from the former parliamentary official David Leakey. “He had been a Lieutenant General who served in Germany, Northern Ireland and Bosnia. But claims he was bullied i.e intimidated and coerced by John Bercow. Unlikely." DON'T MISS Ex-Labour MP Fiona Onasanya moans about lack of almond milk in jail [INSIGHT]
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Labour chart
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-23--Diane Abbott stands by claim John Bercow couldn’t have intimidated Black Rod

Diane Abbott has faced backlash after suggesting on Twitter that parliamentary official David Leakey couldn ’ t be bullied after being in the army .
She fiercely defended her tweet regarding David Leakey 's claim that he was bullied by Mr Bercow .
In a post on social media , which has since been deleted , Ms Abbott said regarding the bullying allegations : `` Allegations come from the former parliamentary official David Leakey .
He had been a Lieutenant General who served in Germany , Northern Ireland and Bosnia .
But claims he was bullied i.e intimidated and coerced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Speaking to Sophy Ridge on Sunday , Ms Abbott said : “ Anybody can be bullied .
Anybody of any age or any profession can be bullied .
“ I think intimidating Leakey is one thing but of course anyone can be bullied.
” Ms Ridge asked : “ Anyone can be intimidated as well , can ’ t they ?
” The MP for Hackney North continued : “ Anybody can be intimidated but I think that given Leakey and the leadership roles he has played ; I think it is unlikely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ READ MORE : Diane Abbott has BBC Breakfast audience turn show off “ Annoyed and insulted by John Bercow but not intimidated.
” She continued : “ Anybody can be abused and I know more than some members of parliament because I remain the most abused online than any Labour MP .
“ But all I was saying was given Leakey ’ s history , it seems unlikely that he would be intimidated by John Bercow.
” The ex-Speaker of the House of Commons has denied all claims of bullying during his role @ @ @ @ @ @ @ went on to say she will stand down on frontline politics when Jeremy Cobryn steps down in April and a successor is named .
The Shadow Home Secretary , who supports Rebecca Long-Bailey to be the next Labour leader , said she will be stepping down when a new leader is elected .
She will be returning to the backbenches as the next leader must “ construct their own shadow cabinet ” .
Ms Abbott was asked whether she would serve in the next leader ’ s Shadow Cabinet after outgoing leader Jeremy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rebecca Long-Bailey .
Tony Blair and Gordon Brown brutally mocked by Comedian ’ s impressions [ INSIGHT ] Nigel Farage reveals dire prediction for future of Labour Party [ VIDEO ] Nicola Sturgeon shamed in Scottish Parliament as chamber erupts at SNP [ VIDEO ]

John Bercow 'unlikely' to have intimidated Leakey says Abbott
Diane Abbott has faced backlash after suggesting on Twitter that parliamentary official David Leakey couldn’t be bullied after being in the army. She fiercely defended her tweet regarding David Leakey's claim that he was bullied by Mr Bercow. In a post on social media, which has since been deleted, Ms Abbott said regarding the bullying allegations: "Allegations come from the former parliamentary official David Leakey. He had been a Lieutenant General who served in Germany, Northern Ireland and Bosnia. But claims he was bullied i.e intimidated and coerced by John Bercow. Unlikely."
Speaking to Sophy Ridge on Sunday, Ms Abbott said: “Anybody can be bullied. Anybody of any age or any profession can be bullied. “I think intimidating Leakey is one thing but of course anyone can be bullied.” Ms Ridge asked: “Anyone can be intimidated as well, can’t they?” The MP for Hackney North continued: “Anybody can be intimidated but I think that given Leakey and the leadership roles he has played; I think it is unlikely he was intimidated by John Bercow. READ MORE: Diane Abbott has BBC Breakfast audience turn show off
Diane Abbott stood by her claims former Speaker John Bercow couldn’t have intimidated Black Rod
Diane Abbott has faced backlash online for the tweet
“Annoyed and insulted by John Bercow but not intimidated.” She continued: “Anybody can be abused and I know more than some members of parliament because I remain the most abused online than any Labour MP. “But all I was saying was given Leakey’s history, it seems unlikely that he would be intimidated by John Bercow.” The ex-Speaker of the House of Commons has denied all claims of bullying during his role.
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Diane Abbott said she will stand down on frontline politics when Jeremy Cobryn steps down in April
Labour leadership: Diane Abbott to leave shadow cabinet
On the show, Ms Abbott went on to say she will stand down on frontline politics when Jeremy Cobryn steps down in April and a successor is named. The Shadow Home Secretary, who supports Rebecca Long-Bailey to be the next Labour leader, said she will be stepping down when a new leader is elected. She will be returning to the backbenches as the next leader must “construct their own shadow cabinet”. Ms Abbott was asked whether she would serve in the next leader’s Shadow Cabinet after outgoing leader Jeremy Corbyn said he would happily serve under Rebecca Long-Bailey. DON'T MISS Tony Blair and Gordon Brown brutally mocked by Comedian’s impressions [INSIGHT]
Nigel Farage reveals dire prediction for future of Labour Party [VIDEO]
Nicola Sturgeon shamed in Scottish Parliament as chamber erupts at SNP [VIDEO]
Labour chart
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-23--Emmanuel Macron takes swipe at ‘very hard’ Brits over Brexit trade talks

Mr Macron made the admission in a meeting with fishermen in Paris .
The EU and UK have less than a year to negotiate a free trade agreement before the end of the Brexit transition , with Britain potentially having to proceed on WTO terms if no agreement or extension is reached .
The French President said : “ I am not sure that an agreement will be reached between now and the end of the year .
“ Anyway , it is going to become more tense because ( the British ) are very hard.
” Paris and other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want to keep the right to fish in British waters .
London wants to retain full autonomy in this area .
Michel Barnier , the chief negotiator of the EU , says it is fishing , security and fair trading conditions for European companies that are top priorities .
Emmanuel Macron has said he is 'not sure ' if there will be a UK-EU trade deal by the end of the year Mr Barnier rubbished the suggestion that City firms could be given permanent access to EU markets without any conditions .
French @ @ @ @ @ @ @ revenue from British maritime territories .
In January , Prime Minister Boris Johnson told European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen that the UK would insist on “ maintaining control of Uk fishing waters ” .
The Financial Times also reported Mr Johnson insisted that Britain would “ not align ” with EU rules .
READ MORE : Britons DEMAND new post-Brexit blue passports made in UK French officials have argued most of the British catch is exported to Europe , with frictionless trade important on this side of the English Channel .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ lobsters , crabs and langoustines caught by British fishers are sold to the continent .
Mr Johnson has , however , insisted that Britain wishes to have control of its exclusive economic zone and whilst prepared to discuss access to EU fishermen , the quotas must primarily be for the British .
This intervention from Mr Macron is not the first time that European figures have raised doubt over the potential success of trade negotiations .
DO N'T MISS Brussels power grab : Guy Verhofstadt demands EU take control of TAXES ( LATEST @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU summit failure ( NEWS ) Brexit negotiator makes brilliant point about EU regulations ( ANALYSIS ) A senior diplomat from the EU explained to the Telegraph : “ The more Britain will diverge from common standards and regulations , the more time we will need to negotiate a comprehensive trade deal .
`` Due to the 11-month time limit imposed by London , the risk of a cliff edge by the end of 2020 has risen considerably.
” However , a senior Government source promptly hit back , responding : “ EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reopen the Withdrawal Agreement , but they did as it was plainly in our shared interest .
“ There is clearly political will on both sides that will ensure we can conclude an ambitious free trade agreement by the end of next year.
” David Frost remains the Prime Minister ’ s Europe Adviser and is the chief of Taskforce Europe .
All EU regulations will still apply to the United Kingdom during the transition period .

EU budget: Stefan Löfven addresses increase on Sweden's fee
Mr Macron made the admission in a meeting with fishermen in Paris. The EU and UK have less than a year to negotiate a free trade agreement before the end of the Brexit transition, with Britain potentially having to proceed on WTO terms if no agreement or extension is reached. The French President said: “I am not sure that an agreement will be reached between now and the end of the year.
“Anyway, it is going to become more tense because (the British) are very hard.” Paris and other countries within the bloc are believed to want to keep the right to fish in British waters. London wants to retain full autonomy in this area. Michel Barnier, the chief negotiator of the EU, says it is fishing, security and fair trading conditions for European companies that are top priorities.
Emmanuel Macron has said he is 'not sure' if there will be a UK-EU trade deal by the end of the year
Boris Johnson has discussed fishing with Ursula von der Leyen previously
Mr Barnier rubbished the suggestion that City firms could be given permanent access to EU markets without any conditions. French fishing boats generate 30 percent of their revenue from British maritime territories. In January, Prime Minister Boris Johnson told European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen that the UK would insist on “maintaining control of Uk fishing waters”. The Financial Times also reported Mr Johnson insisted that Britain would “not align” with EU rules. READ MORE: Britons DEMAND new post-Brexit blue passports made in UK
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UK fishermen in Folkestone harbour
French officials have argued most of the British catch is exported to Europe, with frictionless trade important on this side of the English Channel. An estimated two-thirds of the shellfish, lobsters, crabs and langoustines caught by British fishers are sold to the continent. Mr Johnson has, however, insisted that Britain wishes to have control of its exclusive economic zone and whilst prepared to discuss access to EU fishermen, the quotas must primarily be for the British. This intervention from Mr Macron is not the first time that European figures have raised doubt over the potential success of trade negotiations. DON'T MISS
Brussels power grab: Guy Verhofstadt demands EU take control of TAXES (LATEST)
Macron takes dig at Brexit after EU summit failure (NEWS)
Brexit negotiator makes brilliant point about EU regulations (ANALYSIS)
Fisherman working off North Shields
Michel Barnier is the EU's chief negotiator
A senior diplomat from the EU explained to the Telegraph: “The more Britain will diverge from common standards and regulations, the more time we will need to negotiate a comprehensive trade deal. "Due to the 11-month time limit imposed by London, the risk of a cliff edge by the end of 2020 has risen considerably.” However, a senior Government source promptly hit back, responding: “EU officials claimed that they wouldn’t reopen the Withdrawal Agreement, but they did as it was plainly in our shared interest.
Five key moments that lead to Brexit
“There is clearly political will on both sides that will ensure we can conclude an ambitious free trade agreement by the end of next year.” David Frost remains the Prime Minister’s Europe Adviser and is the chief of Taskforce Europe. All EU regulations will still apply to the United Kingdom during the transition period.
Britain left the EU on January 31
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-24--Budget boost: Tories set to repay voters in North with £70bn spree

The Government aims to repay northern towns that helped deliver the first Tory landslide in a generation .
By moving a significant number of its 1,500 officials out of Whitehall it will shift economic decision-making away from London and help spread “ opportunity and prosperity to all ” .
Around £70billion is likely to be spent in the North , it has been claimed .
Pension WARNING : Boris urged against changes to YOUR savings At the election , the Conservatives pledged £100billion in capital spending for road and rail projects , new hospitals and other big schemes .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ growth , particularly outside the affluent South-east .
Mr Sunak , who delivers the Budget on March 11 – just 26 days after his shock appointment – is said to be considering loosening financial rules set by predecessor Sajid Javid .
Experts reckon spending under the Conservatives could rise to £1trillion within years .
The Chancellor has been warned not to hit the pockets of strivers in his statement – after suggestions he could impose a so-called mansion tax on expensive properties or cut to pensions relief to help meet the Government ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ David Davis said the measures would be political madness .
Mr Sunak ’ s “ economic decision-making campus ” will house key Treasury teams in northern England , possibly in Tees Valley , from next year .
The Chancellor , who represents Richmond in North Yorkshire , also wants to move some jobs to Wales , Scotland and Northern Ireland .
A Treasury source said Mr Sunak wanted to “ shift the gravity of economic decision making ” away from the capital .

Rishi Sunak has ‘huge opportunity’ as Chancellor says Ken Clarke
The Government aims to repay northern towns that helped deliver the first Tory landslide in a generation. By moving a significant number of its 1,500 officials out of Whitehall it will shift economic decision-making away from London and help spread “opportunity and prosperity to all”. Around £70billion is likely to be spent in the North, it has been claimed.
At the election, the Conservatives pledged £100billion in capital spending for road and rail projects, new hospitals and other big schemes. The aim is to focus spending on regional growth, particularly outside the affluent South-east. Mr Sunak, who delivers the Budget on March 11 – just 26 days after his shock appointment – is said to be considering loosening financial rules set by predecessor Sajid Javid. Experts reckon spending under the Conservatives could rise to £1trillion within years. The Chancellor has been warned not to hit the pockets of strivers in his statement – after suggestions he could impose a so-called mansion tax on expensive properties or cut to pensions relief to help meet the Government’s spending plans. Former Cabinet minister David Davis said the measures would be political madness. Mr Sunak’s “economic decision-making campus” will house key Treasury teams in northern England, possibly in Tees Valley, from next year. The Chancellor, who represents Richmond in North Yorkshire, also wants to move some jobs to Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. A Treasury source said Mr Sunak wanted to “shift the gravity of economic decision making” away from the capital.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak
“It will be key in helping spread opportunity and prosperity to all,” the source added. Experts have predicted an £8billion tax windfall for the Government on Budget day. But they expect the Government to borrow more cash than Tony Blair did during his decade in power. Whitehall spending is also expected to reach £1trillion for the first time by 2023-24, economic analysts predicted. The Resolution Foundation claimed government expenditure is set to rise at the Budget to 40 percent of Gross Domestic Product, higher than at any point during Mr Blair’s reign from 1997-2007. The think-tank, run by former Labour adviser Torsten Bell, suggested taxes will need to go up. It said the scheduled spending increase, which includes the £100billion of extra capital spending as well as the fastest increase in day-to-day departmental spending since the early 2000s, would lift the Government’s bill above £1trillion by 2024. Borrowing is likely to rise at next month’s Budget, increasing from £41billion in 2018-19 to £64billion by 2021-22.
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Former Chancellor of the Exchequer Sajid Javid
Economist Jack Leslie said: “The Chancellor’s big-spending plans… will lead to a bigger state than at any point under Tony Blair, and marks a big shift for a traditionally small state Conservative Party. “But new roads and rail lines are only part of the story for a government wishing to turn the corner on a decade of austerity. If the Chancellor wants to increase spending on day-to-day public services in a fiscally responsible way he will have to change another of his party’s traditional priorities – lower taxes. Higher spending will require higher taxes.” The Office for Budget Responsibility is likely to downgrade its outlook for the size of the economy by around 0.5 percent at the end of 2022.


thedailyexpress--2020-02-24--Spy chiefs deny they are keeping secrets from Priti Patel

Reports claimed information was being kept back from Priti Patel because MI5 did not “ have confidence in her abilities @ @ @ @ @ service took the unusual step of slapping down the allegations .
Abbott will not sign @ @ @ @ @ , warns Patel A security source said last night : “ She is briefed daily @ @ @ @ @ the same way as any previous post holder .
No information is being withheld .
@ @ @ @ @ simply wrong.
” It was claimed MI5 found her “ extremely difficult to deal with @ @ @ @ @ doesn ’ t grasp the subtleties of intelligence ” .
Last week she was accused @ @ @ @ @ to remove permanent secretary Sir Philip Rutnam .

Reports claimed information was being kept back from Priti Patel because MI5 did not “have confidence in her abilities”. But the secret service took the unusual step of slapping down the allegations.
Abbott will not sign off on terrorist security operations, warns Patel
A security source said last night: “She is briefed daily on intelligence matters in exactly the same way as any previous post holder. No information is being withheld. Any reports suggesting otherwise is simply wrong.”
It was claimed MI5 found her “extremely difficult to deal with” and that she “doesn’t grasp the subtleties of intelligence”.
Last week she was accused of bullying officials and trying to remove permanent secretary Sir Philip Rutnam.
Her allies accused Sir Philip of obstruction.


thedailyexpress--2020-02-24--Domestic Abuse Bill: Victims of domestic violence ‘need this Bill’

Dame Vera Baird said the Domestic Abuse Bill can protect victims and tackle perpetrators , and change the way the Family Court works .
She has written to Home Secretary Priti Patel to shape the Bill into a “ landmark ” piece of legislation and has put forward a series of amendments to be made to protect women and men from domestic abuse .
Dame Vera has urged for special measures to be put in place in the Family Court for domestic abuse survivors .
She has also called for a ban on the cross-examination of victims in any family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stalking , domestic abuse or harassment .
She said : “ The situation in the family courts for victims of domestic abuse is , in many cases , actually unjust and unnecessarily re-traumatising .
“ I would argue that the Government should use any levers for change as a matter of urgency .
“ The Domestic Abuse Bill needs to be a strong and determined declaration from the Government to ensure victims will be supported .
“ The Government should be investing in a major public information campaign and a training programme for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Everyone whose role brings them into contact with situations where there may be domestic abuse , and the ordinary population , get a better understanding of how it works .
“ So we are better able to recognise when someone may be being abused .
“ Working with the domestic abuse charities , we will do what we can to make it the Bill that it should be .
I hope that the Government will be responsive .

Dame Vera Baird said the Domestic Abuse Bill can protect victims and tackle perpetrators, and change the way the Family Court works. She has written to Home Secretary Priti Patel to shape the Bill into a “landmark” piece of legislation and has put forward a series of amendments to be made to protect women and men from domestic abuse. Dame Vera has urged for special measures to be put in place in the Family Court for domestic abuse survivors. She has also called for a ban on the cross-examination of victims in any family, criminal or civil proceeding that involves stalking, domestic abuse or harassment.
She said: “The situation in the family courts for victims of domestic abuse is, in many cases, actually unjust and unnecessarily re-traumatising.
“I would argue that the Government should use any levers for change as a matter of urgency.
“The Domestic Abuse Bill needs to be a strong and determined declaration from the Government to ensure victims will be supported.
“The Government should be investing in a major public information campaign and a training programme for professionals as this Bill comes out. Everyone whose role brings them into contact with situations where there may be domestic abuse, and the ordinary population, get a better understanding of how it works.
“So we are better able to recognise when someone may be being abused.
“Working with the domestic abuse charities, we will do what we can to make it the Bill that it should be. I hope that the Government will be responsive.


thedailyexpress--2020-02-24--Boris Johnson urged to appoint a Minister for Older People to end ‘scandalous abuse'

There is no single department or minister responsible solely for the interests of those aged 65 and over .
Veteran campaigner Dame Esther Rantzen , Age UK , Action on Elder Abuse and Independent Age united to demand a Cabinet-level job to end the chaotic current approach to looking after 11 million pensioners .
Dame Esther , 79 , founder and president of The Silver Line , said : “ The needs of older people are sliced up between departments .
Look at the muddle of social care , still not sorted in spite of all the promises .
Older @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blockers in hospital and house blockers in communities when there is nowhere safe and economical for them to live.
” The charities said a dedicated ministry to address the multitude of issues facing OAPs would be a start .
Last summer , Mr Johnson created a new Office for Veterans ’ Affairs overseen by two ministers to ensure government delivers lifelong support to those who had served the country .
Scotland has a minister for older people , Wales has an older people ’ s commissioner .
In England there are only Helen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loneliness minister Baroness Diana Barran .
Dr John Beer , chairman of Action on Elder Abuse , said : “ We ’ ve seen little legislative change .
A Minister for Older People would have oversight of all of these issues , and would hold the Government to account .
The time to act is now.
” A recent report revealed 2,000 desperate pleas for care from pensioners are rejected by local councils every day .
Around 700,000 requests for formal care and support made by older people in the past year were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ twice as many in England are not getting the help they need .
Increasingly the burden falls on charities like The Silver Line – Britain ’ s only 24-hour free telephone helpline – Age UK and others .
Meanwhile one million older people are victims of abuse each year .

Esther Rantzen's The Silver Line aims to tackle loneliness
There is no single department or minister responsible solely for the interests of those aged 65 and over. Veteran campaigner Dame Esther Rantzen, Age UK, Action on Elder Abuse and Independent Age united to demand a Cabinet-level job to end the chaotic current approach to looking after 11 million pensioners. Dame Esther, 79, founder and president of The Silver Line, said: “The needs of older people are sliced up between departments. Look at the muddle of social care, still not sorted in spite of all the promises. Older people are being blamed for being bed blockers in hospital and house blockers in communities when there is nowhere safe and economical for them to live.”
The charities said a dedicated ministry to address the multitude of issues facing OAPs would be a start. Last summer, Mr Johnson created a new Office for Veterans’ Affairs overseen by two ministers to ensure government delivers lifelong support to those who had served the country. Scotland has a minister for older people, Wales has an older people’s commissioner. In England there are only Helen Whately, as care minister, and loneliness minister Baroness Diana Barran. Dr John Beer, chairman of Action on Elder Abuse, said: “We’ve seen little legislative change. A Minister for Older People would have oversight of all of these issues, and would hold the Government to account. The time to act is now.” A recent report revealed 2,000 desperate pleas for care from pensioners are rejected by local councils every day. Around 700,000 requests for formal care and support made by older people in the past year were not dealt with but it is thought twice as many in England are not getting the help they need. Increasingly the burden falls on charities like The Silver Line – Britain’s only 24-hour free telephone helpline – Age UK and others. Meanwhile one million older people are victims of abuse each year.
One million older people are victims of abuse each year
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson
In 2012, MPs urged PM David Cameron to consider creating a Minister for Older People. No action was taken. Successor Theresa May just appointed a minister for loneliness. Last year, Mr Johnson promised to produce a “long-term plan” to provide dignity and security in old age. But there are now 1.5 million people aged 65 and over with unmet care needs. Caroline Abrahams, charity director of Age UK, said: “From bank branch closures to social care, there’s plenty of evidence of government being tone deaf to older people’s lives.” Deborah Alsina, chief executive of Independent Age, said: “Right now, many older people feel ignored, isolated and marginalised. We therefore support the Daily Express’s call for a Minister for Older People.” A Government spokesman said: “Issues specifically affecting older people are already covered by Cabinet ministers across departments including the Home Office and Department for Health and Social Care.”
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Esther Rantzen, Founder of The Silver Line
COMMENT BY ESTHER RANTZEN Boris, listen up! Some of the most crucial charities in the country have an urgent message for you. Please appoint a Minister for Older People now. The Silver Line helpline receives more than 10,000 calls each week. Such as a woman in her eighties trying to care for a disabled husband. And an elderly gentleman who had not received a promised Christmas lunch “because of cutbacks”. There was a woman cold and underfed in a care home unheated in the depth of winter. Another who had been “chucked into the garden” by her daughter. A man found his son had sold the family home while he was in hospital. Then there is the loneliness that makes life virtual solitary confinement. There are plenty of precedents proving the difference it makes when a prime minister appoints a focused, accountable minister.


thedailyexpress--2020-02-24--House of Lords is a rolling expense scandal! Calls for reforms as peers ‘take advantage’

Claims went up by 29 percent to £23 million in the last financial year , analysis found .
More than 110 so-called silent peers , who pocket cash despite not speaking debates or making any written contribution , received £1 million .
The average tax-free payment was £30,827 , higher than the median salary of a UK worker , a Sunday newspaper found .
Some 31 peers even claimed more in expenses than the £79,468 standard take-home pay of an MP .
Willie Sullivan , a senior director at the Electoral Reform Society , called for urgent reform of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taking advantage of the lack of scrutiny in the upper chamber , ” he said .
`` The Lords is a rolling expenses scandal - and we 'll see this year after year unless there is reform . ''
The figures come ahead of an inflation-busting increase to allowances for peers from April .
It will push the daily tax-free rate up to £323 a day , meaning those attending every day are likely to collect at least £50,000 by the end of the year .
Peers made 2,513 changes to legislation , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during the 2018/19 sitting .
But it was a period of huge conflict with ministers after the upper chamber repeatedly tried to block Brexit legislation .
Over the full session , which began in 2017 , peers inflicted 69 defeats on the government .
John O ’ Connell , chief executive of the TaxPayers ’ Alliance , said : “ These expenses are rightly meant to cover the costs of working in Westminster , not let Lords and Ladies take home more than the elected representatives next door.
” The bulging House of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ peers , is expected to expand further with dozens of new peerages in the pipeline following the election , despite calls for a major cull in numbers .
Ministers are considering moving the chamber to York as part of the government ’ s plans to “ level up ” the country .
The House of Lords said the hike in costs was down to an increase in the number of sitting days .
It put the 25 percent rise down to the general election in the previous financial year cutting down time peers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` busy and effective revising chamber which does an important job scrutinising legislation and holding the Government to account '' , officials insisted .
`` As members of the Lords can generally only claim allowances for days they attend the House any increase in sitting days is likely to produce an increase in the cost of member 's allowances , ” a spokesman said .

Claims went up by 29 percent in the last financial year
Claims went up by 29 percent to £23 million in the last financial year, analysis found. More than 110 so-called silent peers, who pocket cash despite not speaking debates or making any written contribution, received £1 million.
The average tax-free payment was £30,827, higher than the median salary of a UK worker, a Sunday newspaper found. Some 31 peers even claimed more in expenses than the £79,468 standard take-home pay of an MP. Willie Sullivan, a senior director at the Electoral Reform Society, called for urgent reform of the upper chamber. "Unelected Lords are taking advantage of the lack of scrutiny in the upper chamber,” he said. "The Lords is a rolling expenses scandal - and we'll see this year after year unless there is reform."
More than 110 so-called silent peers received £1 million
The figures come ahead of an inflation-busting increase to allowances for peers from April. It will push the daily tax-free rate up to £323 a day, meaning those attending every day are likely to collect at least £50,000 by the end of the year. Peers made 2,513 changes to legislation, tabled 8,072 written questions and produced 153 during the 2018/19 sitting. But it was a period of huge conflict with ministers after the upper chamber repeatedly tried to block Brexit legislation. Over the full session, which began in 2017, peers inflicted 69 defeats on the government. John O’Connell, chief executive of the TaxPayers’ Alliance, said: “These expenses are rightly meant to cover the costs of working in Westminster, not let Lords and Ladies take home more than the elected representatives next door.”
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-23--Brussels' 'insane' law to 'PENALISE' Britons to be enforced in the UK despite EU exit

Coming into effect after Brexit , ride-on lawnmowers , golf carts and tractors will be required to have motor insurance @ @ @ @ @ '' by Boris Johnson , the law comes from an EU directive interpreted by the @ @ @ @ @ ECJ ) .
Brexit poll : Does the UK have upper hand now the EU27 @ @ @ @ @ can end Cyprus stand-off between north and south , PM says Although the UK is @ @ @ @ @ withdrawal agreement stated pre-Brexit judgements carried out by the ECJ will continue to apply .
@ @ @ @ @ by lawyers the law could leave homeowners facing prosecution for driving any vehicle without insurance @ @ @ @ @ of the Motor Insurers ' Board ( MIB ) also warned the new law will @ @ @ @ @ '' people .
Dominic Clayden told The Sunday Telegraph : `` Through this application of @ @ @ @ @ millions of new uninsured vehicles have potentially been created .

Brexit: Raab says UK ‘won’t align with ECJ rules’ in trade deal
Coming into effect after Brexit, ride-on lawnmowers, golf carts and tractors will be required to have motor insurance. Described as "insane" by Boris Johnson, the law comes from an EU directive interpreted by the European Court of Justice (ECJ).
Although the UK is leaving the EU, the withdrawal agreement stated pre-Brexit judgements carried out by the ECJ will continue to apply. Mr Johnson had been urged by lawyers the law could leave homeowners facing prosecution for driving any vehicle without insurance. The chief of executive of the Motor Insurers' Board (MIB) also warned the new law will end up "penalising ordinary" people. Dominic Clayden told The Sunday Telegraph: "Through this application of EU law in Britain, millions of new uninsured vehicles have potentially been created.
Brexit news: UK to be forced to adhere to
Brexit news: The transition stage end in December 2020
"This will end up penalising ordinary people just going about their business on private land. "Leaving the EU means we now have an opportunity to decide our laws for ourselves and we want to work with the Government to find a path forward." The MIB had attempted to appeal against the ECJ's ruling but the decision was upheld by the Court of Appeal. They are also asking the Prime Minister to ensure the rule is overturned once the UK leaves the trade bloc. JUST IN: Britons DEMAND new post-Brexit blue passports made in UK
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Brexit news: Mr Johnson described the law as "insane"
In 2016 the Government was forced to carry out a consultation on implementing the EU regulation. The law followed a case whereby a man fell from a ladder after being hit by a tractor-trailer. Commenting at the time, the Department of Transport said: "We oppose any measures which impose an unreasonable burden on the public." During the transition stage, the UK will still pay into the EU's budget and will also adhere to EU laws. DON'T MISS
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Brexit news: The law could penalise a lot of homeowners
The transition stage ends on December 31, 2020, but before then, the UK and EU will carry out trade talks in the coming weeks. Before talks have even begun, both sides have clashed over how the future agreement will be shaped. Mr Johnson has indicated his desire to have an agreement similar to that of Canada and the EU. Brussels officials, however, have ruled the proposal out with Michel Barnier claiming it is not possible.
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The EU negotiator said: “A trade agreement that includes in particular fishing and includes a level playing field, with a country that has a very particular proximity – a unique territorial and economic closeness. "It can’t be compared to Canada or South Korea or Japan.”
Brexit news: Michel Barnier will lead negotiations
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