thedailyexpress--2020-12-10--EU PANIC: Brussels makes plea for extended fishing rights in NO DEAL – crisis plans show

The European Commission is working on a new regulation to create an “ appropriate legal framework ” to enable EU boats to access the UK ’ s fishing grounds .
With the trade negotiations on the brink of collapse , eurocrats will propose arrangements for “ continued reciprocal access by EU and UK vessels to each others ’ waters after December 31 , 2020 ” .
The EU Commission adds : “ In order to guarantee the sustainability of fisheries and in light of the importance of fisheries for the economic livelihood of many communities , it is necessary to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vessels.
” The bloc is calling for the same level of access its fishermen enjoy to the UK 's fishing grounds as under the Common Fisheries Policy .
Eurocrats have proposed : `` The status quo in terms of access by Union fishing vessels '' .
Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage said : `` This is the biggest insult yet from the European Commission . ''
The Government would first have to sign off on the plan before European trawlermen would be allowed access to Britain ’ s waters .
Brussels bureaucrats have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minimise trade “ disruption ” between the UK and Continent in the event of a no deal .
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said : “ Negotiations are still ongoing .
However , given that the end of the transition is very near , there is no guarantee that if and when an agreement is found , it can enter into force on time .
“ Our responsibility is to be prepared for all eventualities , including not having a deal in place with the UK on January 1 , 2021 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ with these measures today . ''
The EU also published plans to minimise disruption to aviation , road and train freight .
The measures require Britain to sign up to the same so-called level playing field demands that have stalled the wrangling over a free trade agreement .
In the no deal plans for maintaining road traffic between the UK and EU , the bloc proposes its demands show `` consistency with other Union policies '' .
The regulation adds : `` Even after the end of the transition period , the United @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comparable standards in the area of road freight and road passenger transport . ''
The measures were published amid growing fear by member states that the trade talks will fail to conclude a UK-EU future relationship pact .
Panicked EU capitals want the bloc to ramp up preparations to ensure basic conectivity is maintained with the UK if there is a no-deal Brexit .
Last night Boris Johnson met with Commission chief Mrs von der Leyen in Brussels to attempt to thrash out agreements on future fishing rights and common standards .
During @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minister warned he would quit the trade and security talks on Sunday unless Brussels drops its attempts to keep Britain wrapped up in red tape .
The wrangling over the future relationship pact now teeters on the brink of collapse with “ very large gaps ” between the two sides on future fishing rights and common standards .
A Senior No10 source said : “ The Prime Minister and von der Leyen had a frank discussion about the significant obstacles which remain in the negotiations .
“ Very large gaps remain between the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whether these can be bridged .
The PM and VDL agreed to further discussions over the next few days between their negotiating teams .
“ The PM does not want to leave any route to a possible deal untested .
The PM and von der Leyen agreed that by Sunday a firm decision should be taken about the future of the talks .
”

Brexit: Ann Widdecombe says Thatcher would have got better deal
The European Commission is working on a new regulation to create an “appropriate legal framework” to enable EU boats to access the UK’s fishing grounds. With the trade negotiations on the brink of collapse, eurocrats will propose arrangements for “continued reciprocal access by EU and UK vessels to each others’ waters after December 31, 2020”. The EU Commission adds: “In order to guarantee the sustainability of fisheries and in light of the importance of fisheries for the economic livelihood of many communities, it is necessary to facilitate the procedures of authorisation of fishing vessels.”
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The bloc is calling for the same level of access its fishermen enjoy to the UK's fishing grounds as under the Common Fisheries Policy. Eurocrats have proposed: "The status quo in terms of access by Union fishing vessels". Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage said: "This is the biggest insult yet from the European Commission." EU argues the request is "considered proportionate".
Ursula von der Leyen publishes EU's no-deal Brexit plans
The Government would first have to sign off on the plan before European trawlermen would be allowed access to Britain’s waters. Brussels bureaucrats have drawn up five new contingency measures to minimise trade “disruption” between the UK and Continent in the event of a no deal. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said: “Negotiations are still ongoing. However, given that the end of the transition is very near, there is no guarantee that if and when an agreement is found, it can enter into force on time. “Our responsibility is to be prepared for all eventualities, including not having a deal in place with the UK on January 1, 2021. That is why we are coming forward with these measures today."
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Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen met in Brussels last night
The EU also published plans to minimise disruption to aviation, road and train freight. The measures require Britain to sign up to the same so-called level playing field demands that have stalled the wrangling over a free trade agreement. In the no deal plans for maintaining road traffic between the UK and EU, the bloc proposes its demands show "consistency with other Union policies". The regulation adds: "Even after the end of the transition period, the United Kingdom continues to apply sufficiently high and comparable standards in the area of road freight and road passenger transport." MUST READ: What are EU so afraid of? Brussels chiefs' deep panic over own system
Brexit: What needs to be done to get a trade and security deal over the line
The measures were published amid growing fear by member states that the trade talks will fail to conclude a UK-EU future relationship pact. Panicked EU capitals want the bloc to ramp up preparations to ensure basic conectivity is maintained with the UK if there is a no-deal Brexit. Last night Boris Johnson met with Commission chief Mrs von der Leyen in Brussels to attempt to thrash out agreements on future fishing rights and common standards. DON'T MISS
UK holidaymakers could be barred from EU due to Covid-19 travel rules [INSIGHT]
EU treats other fishing nations fairly but Brexit Britain like pariah [COMMENT]
Brexit crisis: Swedish PM ignores 'no Brexit' talk and breaks silence [REVEALED]
Brexit: Robert Jenrick calls on the EU to show 'movement'


thedailyexpress--2020-12-10--EU chaos: German MEP fears 'crazed man in Downing Street' will 'RUIN the European project'

The scathing comments come after crisis talks in Brussels between Mr Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen over a post-Brexit trade deal between the UK and EU collapsed .
Huge differences continue to remain between the two sides , with both leaders pledging to make an announcement on the future of the negotiations before the end of the weekend .
Udo Bullmann , who has been an MEP for more than 20 years and is a member of the Social Democratic Party ( SDP ) in Germany , warned the Prime Minister his plan to do business @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attacking the single market `` from the outside '' will quickly `` burst like a soap bubble '' over the coming days .
He told German radio station BR2 : `` I have the impression Boris Johnson still has the illusion he could do business in France and Germany and at the same time attack the single market from the outside with tax dumping and lax regulations regarding environmental protection and labour rights .
`` This illusion will burst like a soap bubble , likely very soon in the next days .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the 28th-29th December , this is the very last opportunity when we can ratify an agreement .
`` We are already doing our best to speed up all procedures , but I ’ m very sceptical about the current state of negotiations , even after yesterday ’ s conversation in Brussels . ''
When told by the radio host this sounds like a no-deal outcome and asked the impact might be , Mr Bullmann fumed : `` Then it will be especially the citizens in GB who will suffer .
`` Trucks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jams , we will also witness a slump of the British economy .
This will also not pass us by unscathed .
`` But the EU is the bigger partner in this trade dispute .
This is above all a trade dispute .
`` We will do everything to find an agreement , but we mustn ’ t risk that a crazed man in 10 Downing Street will ruin the European project .
That is too high of a price to pay . ''
READ MORE : Brexit LIVE : UK faces YEARS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three hours of unsuccessful talks between Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen in Brussels , a senior Downing Street source warned it was `` unclear '' whether the differences between the two sides could be bridged .
They said : `` The PM and VDL ( von der Leyen ) had a frank discussion about the significant obstacles which remain in the negotiations .
`` Very large gaps remain between the two sides and it is still unclear whether these can be bridged .
`` The PM and VDL agreed to further @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their negotiating teams .
DO N'T MISS EU summit LIVE : Brussels facing war with Turkey , Poland and Hungary [ BLOG ] EU finally gets it !
Brussels scrambles for no deal plans [ COMMENT ] Brexit on brink : EU told to 'show us some movement ' to stop walkout [ INTERVIEW ] '' The PM does not want to leave any route to a possible deal untested .
The PM and VDL agreed that by Sunday a firm decision should be taken about the future of the talks . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the negotiating teams should `` immediately reconvene '' to try to resolve the `` essential issues '' , but warned their positions remain `` far apart '' .
But with just 72 hours until a decision on the future of trade talks is made , Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab sent a huge warning to the EU , insisting the UK will not `` sacrifice '' its ability to control fishing waters and laws on standards to achieve a trade deal .
The former Brexit Secretary told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that and nor would the EU in terms of its dealings with third countries .
`` On the fisheries , we 've accepted that there needs to be some sort of transitional period but we must be able to control access to our own waters .

Brexit: UK has ‘behaved flexibly’ says Dominic Raab
The scathing comments come after crisis talks in Brussels between Mr Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen over a post-Brexit trade deal between the UK and EU collapsed. Huge differences continue to remain between the two sides, with both leaders pledging to make an announcement on the future of the negotiations before the end of the weekend. Udo Bullmann, who has been an MEP for more than 20 years and is a member of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Germany, warned the Prime Minister his plan to do business with both France and Germany while also attacking the single market "from the outside" will quickly "burst like a soap bubble" over the coming days.
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He told German radio station BR2: "I have the impression Boris Johnson still has the illusion he could do business in France and Germany and at the same time attack the single market from the outside with tax dumping and lax regulations regarding environmental protection and labour rights. "This illusion will burst like a soap bubble, likely very soon in the next days. "The European Parliament has set a date, the 28th-29th December, this is the very last opportunity when we can ratify an agreement. "We are already doing our best to speed up all procedures, but I’m very sceptical about the current state of negotiations, even after yesterday’s conversation in Brussels."
Brexit news: Udo Bullmann launched a furious attack against Boris Johnson
Brexit news: Udo Bullmann lashed out at the Prime Minister
When told by the radio host this sounds like a no-deal outcome and asked the impact might be, Mr Bullmann fumed: "Then it will be especially the citizens in GB who will suffer. "Trucks in Dover will be stuck in traffic jams, we will also witness a slump of the British economy. This will also not pass us by unscathed. "But the EU is the bigger partner in this trade dispute. This is above all a trade dispute. "We will do everything to find an agreement, but we mustn’t risk that a crazed man in 10 Downing Street will ruin the European project. That is too high of a price to pay." READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: UK faces YEARS of talks even if deal agreed
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Brexit news: Boris Johnson met Ursula von der Leyen for crisis talks in Brussels
Following three hours of unsuccessful talks between Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen in Brussels, a senior Downing Street source warned it was "unclear" whether the differences between the two sides could be bridged. They said: "The PM and VDL (von der Leyen) had a frank discussion about the significant obstacles which remain in the negotiations. "Very large gaps remain between the two sides and it is still unclear whether these can be bridged. "The PM and VDL agreed to further discussions over the next few days between their negotiating teams. DON'T MISS
EU summit LIVE: Brussels facing war with Turkey, Poland and Hungary [BLOG]
EU finally gets it! Brussels scrambles for no deal plans [COMMENT]
Brexit on brink: EU told to 'show us some movement' to stop walkout [INTERVIEW]
Brexit news: The two leaders failed to make a breakthrough following three hours of talks
Brexit news: Dominic Raab has sent a huge warning to the EU
"The PM does not want to leave any route to a possible deal untested. The PM and VDL agreed that by Sunday a firm decision should be taken about the future of the talks." European Commission President Ms von der Leyen said the negotiating teams should "immediately reconvene" to try to resolve the "essential issues", but warned their positions remain "far apart". But with just 72 hours until a decision on the future of trade talks is made, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab sent a huge warning to the EU, insisting the UK will not "sacrifice" its ability to control fishing waters and laws on standards to achieve a trade deal. The former Brexit Secretary told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "No other country would accept that and nor would the EU in terms of its dealings with third countries. "On the fisheries, we've accepted that there needs to be some sort of transitional period but we must be able to control access to our own waters.
Brexit news: The UK is edging closer to fully cutting ties with the EU


thedailyexpress--2020-12-11--Brexit Britain will know EU trade deal fate in just 72-hours after Boris's sharp outburst

David McAllister said it would become clear whether the European Union and Britain can overcome their differences and reach a free trade agreement by the end of the week .
Speaking to Express.co.uk , the German MEP , who is a close ally of Angela Merkel , said he was prepared to let the negotiations go down to the wire if it produced a successful outcome .
He insisted the EU Parliament was ready to be “ creative and pragmatic ” when it comes to rubber-stamping a draft legal text for approval .
Mr McAllister , who is chair of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told this website : “ Both sides know what ’ s at stake .
At the beginning of next week , we will know if there ’ s an agreement or not .
“ Let ’ s be clear , we ’ ve already reached crunch time , the next few days are going to be decisive.
” The German MEP , a member of the Chancellor ’ s Christian Democratic Union , said the chances of a deal hinge on whether Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen can “ translate principles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officials are currently at loggerheads over how to manage future common standards and ensure Britain ’ s departure from the bloc ’ s rulebook will not create an unfair advantage for the country ’ s businesses .
The Prime Minister this evening said he was unhappy Brussels had introduced new demands late in the negotiations to have the power punish the UK for not complying with future regulations .
EU Brexit chief Michel Barnier has been warned by hardline European capitals not to compromise too far in order to appease Downing Street .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ can technically vote down the agreement , were ready to give their negotiator room to be flexible in his hunt for a Brexit deal .
“ I think the vast majority of colleagues are fully aware that this is a unique situation , ” Mr McAllister said .
“ We are speaking about one of the most important partnerships the European Union might have ever concluded , covering trade , security and many other areas with a big economic and social impact for the EU .
“ A lot is at stake and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have a deal , we want to put our future relations with the United Kingdom on a solid legal basis.
” The German MEP said a good agreement would contain compromises from the EU and UK , “ which both sides can accept ” .
Depending on when , or if , there is a deal , the European Parliament is considering two possible sessions to vote to ratify the trade pact .
MUST READ : Ireland 's Simon Coveney hits out at Raab - EU demands 'not unreasonable' Mr McAllister said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ December 23 or a week later in between Christmas and New Year .
But he also welcomed the European Commission ’ s move to up the ante with the publication of its no deal Brexit contingency plans .
Eurocrats today unveiled a series of proposals that aim to tie the UK to the bloc ’ s draconian rules for up to a year as the price for continued access to the Continent for British lorries and planes .
Mr McAllister said : “ There is uncertainty and the European Union also has to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ DO N'T MISS Boris ready to fly to Paris to confront Macron on fishing [ INSIGHT ] Boris reminded door is 'wide open ' for fishing deal with Norway [ REVEALED ] Brexit news : EU threatens to ban UK planes from flying in bloc [ ANALYSIS ]

Brexit: Johnson says EU equivalence is ‘not sensible’ for UK
David McAllister said it would become clear whether the European Union and Britain can overcome their differences and reach a free trade agreement by the end of the week. Speaking to Express.co.uk, the German MEP, who is a close ally of Angela Merkel, said he was prepared to let the negotiations go down to the wire if it produced a successful outcome. He insisted the EU Parliament was ready to be “creative and pragmatic” when it comes to rubber-stamping a draft legal text for approval.
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Mr McAllister, who is chair of the EU Parliament's Brexit committee, told this website: “Both sides know what’s at stake. At the beginning of next week, we will know if there’s an agreement or not. “Let’s be clear, we’ve already reached crunch time, the next few days are going to be decisive.” The German MEP, a member of the Chancellor’s Christian Democratic Union, said the chances of a deal hinge on whether Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen can “translate principles into rules”. EU and UK officials are currently at loggerheads over how to manage future common standards and ensure Britain’s departure from the bloc’s rulebook will not create an unfair advantage for the country’s businesses.
The EU Parliament's Brexit chief David McAllister says a Brexit deal could emerge this week
Michel Barnier and David McAllister are in constant contact
The Prime Minister this evening said he was unhappy Brussels had introduced new demands late in the negotiations to have the power punish the UK for not complying with future regulations. EU Brexit chief Michel Barnier has been warned by hardline European capitals not to compromise too far in order to appease Downing Street. But Mr McAllister suggested MEPs, who can technically vote down the agreement, were ready to give their negotiator room to be flexible in his hunt for a Brexit deal. “I think the vast majority of colleagues are fully aware that this is a unique situation,” Mr McAllister said.
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David McAllister is head of the EU Parliament's UK Co-ordination Group
“We are speaking about one of the most important partnerships the European Union might have ever concluded, covering trade, security and many other areas with a big economic and social impact for the EU. “A lot is at stake and we have always said we would prefer to have a deal, we want to put our future relations with the United Kingdom on a solid legal basis.” The German MEP said a good agreement would contain compromises from the EU and UK, “which both sides can accept”. Depending on when, or if, there is a deal, the European Parliament is considering two possible sessions to vote to ratify the trade pact. MUST READ: Ireland's Simon Coveney hits out at Raab - EU demands 'not unreasonable'
Brexit end game: What needs to be done to get a trade and security deal across the line
Mr McAllister said MEPs would have their say on either December 23 or a week later in between Christmas and New Year. But he also welcomed the European Commission’s move to up the ante with the publication of its no deal Brexit contingency plans. Eurocrats today unveiled a series of proposals that aim to tie the UK to the bloc’s draconian rules for up to a year as the price for continued access to the Continent for British lorries and planes. Mr McAllister said: “There is uncertainty and the European Union also has to be well prepared for this outcome. DON'T MISS
Boris ready to fly to Paris to confront Macron on fishing [INSIGHT]
Boris reminded door is 'wide open' for fishing deal with Norway [REVEALED]
Brexit news: EU threatens to ban UK planes from flying in bloc [ANALYSIS]
Brexit: Simon Coveney says EU’s demands ‘not unreasonable’


thedailyexpress--2020-12-11--Andrew Neil PICKS APART EU Brexit proposals - ‘No UK Government could accept!’

The former BBC political presenter said under a dynamic alignment deal , the EU would have the powers to insist the UK kept up with its evolving standards or face punitive consequences .
Boris Johnson today ruled out signing up to any agreement with the EU which involved such constraints .
And Mr Neil said he doubted any British government could ever agree to it .
He tweeted : `` EU ’ s negotiating position has never been scrutinised by GB media .
More often just lionised .
`` Re ‘ dynamic alignment ’ : EU insists that if it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t follow suit , then it has right unilaterally to impose tariffs without recourse to independent arbitration .
`` UK would have no right to impose retaliatory tariffs .
Nor would there be any kind of quid pro quo if we introduced new rules .
EU would be under no obligation to follow suit .
`` I doubt any British government could agree to that . ''
Earlier , Mr Johnson 's spokesman said the UK will not enter an agreement that involved dynamic alignment .
He insisted Britain remained committed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but would not accept any deal that does not respect its sovereignty .
The spokesman said : `` We 're determined not to leave any route to a fair deal untested , which is why we 've asked the negotiators to continue to negotiate today and tomorrow . ''
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has admitted it will now be `` difficult '' to reach a post-Brexit trade agreement and ordered officials to ramp up planning for no deal .
READ MORE : Brexit LIVE : Boris warns 'STRONG possibility ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaders ' summit today , Mrs von der Leyen said : `` I had a very long conversation yesterday night with Prime Minister Boris Johnson .
`` It was a good conversation but it is difficult .
We are willing to grant access to the single market to our British friends - it is the largest single market in the world .
`` But the conditions have to be fair .
They have to be fair for our workers and for our companies , and this fine balance of fairness has not been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaders were being updated by Ms von der Leyen on the progress - or lack of it - during the summit in Brussels .
Some said further talks today between UK negotiator Lord Frost and his opposite number Michel Barnier gave at least a glimmer of hope for a deal .
Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin said an agreement was `` within reach '' .
He said : `` It makes sense to get a trade deal .
I 'm very aware of the difficulties around a level playing field , the dispute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did n't expect a breakthrough last evening .
I think the fact that they met for quite a lengthy period of time and that frank exchange of views in itself is a good thing , and the fact that the negotiators are mandated to go back in again and try to break the logjam . ''
DO N'T MISS Mr Barnier is French maybe he was never the best bet for a fair Brexit [ COMMENT ] What is EU so afraid of ?
Brussels chiefs ' deep panic over own system [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mean for the UK ?
[ ANALYSIS ]

Brexit: Johnson says EU equivalence is ‘not sensible’ for UK
The former BBC political presenter said under a dynamic alignment deal, the EU would have the powers to insist the UK kept up with its evolving standards or face punitive consequences. Boris Johnson today ruled out signing up to any agreement with the EU which involved such constraints. And Mr Neil said he doubted any British government could ever agree to it.
I doubt any British government could agree to that Andrew Neil
He tweeted: "EU’s negotiating position has never been scrutinised by GB media. More often just lionised. "Re ‘dynamic alignment’: EU insists that if it brings in new rules and we don’t follow suit, then it has right unilaterally to impose tariffs without recourse to independent arbitration. "UK would have no right to impose retaliatory tariffs. Nor would there be any kind of quid pro quo if we introduced new rules. EU would be under no obligation to follow suit. "I doubt any British government could agree to that."
Andrew Neil has attacked the EU's 'dynamic alignment' demands
Earlier, Mr Johnson's spokesman said the UK will not enter an agreement that involved dynamic alignment. He insisted Britain remained committed to trying to bridge differences with the EU but would not accept any deal that does not respect its sovereignty. The spokesman said: "We're determined not to leave any route to a fair deal untested, which is why we've asked the negotiators to continue to negotiate today and tomorrow." European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has admitted it will now be "difficult" to reach a post-Brexit trade agreement and ordered officials to ramp up planning for no deal. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: Boris warns 'STRONG possibility' of no deal
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Boris Johnson insists the UK will not enter an agreement involving dynamic alignment
Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen failed to reach a deal when they met last night
Speaking at an EU leaders' summit today, Mrs von der Leyen said: "I had a very long conversation yesterday night with Prime Minister Boris Johnson. "It was a good conversation but it is difficult. We are willing to grant access to the single market to our British friends - it is the largest single market in the world. "But the conditions have to be fair. They have to be fair for our workers and for our companies, and this fine balance of fairness has not been achieved so far." The EU leaders were being updated by Ms von der Leyen on the progress - or lack of it - during the summit in Brussels.
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Some said further talks today between UK negotiator Lord Frost and his opposite number Michel Barnier gave at least a glimmer of hope for a deal. Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin said an agreement was "within reach". He said: "It makes sense to get a trade deal. I'm very aware of the difficulties around a level playing field, the dispute resolution mechanism and fisheries. "I didn't expect a breakthrough last evening. I think the fact that they met for quite a lengthy period of time and that frank exchange of views in itself is a good thing, and the fact that the negotiators are mandated to go back in again and try to break the logjam." DON'T MISS
Mr Barnier is French maybe he was never the best bet for a fair Brexit[COMMENT]
What is EU so afraid of? Brussels chiefs' deep panic over own system[INSIGHT]
What does no deal Brexit mean for the UK?[ANALYSIS]
Brexit timeline


thedailyexpress--2020-12-10--EU threatens to ban UK planes from flying in bloc in desperate attempt to win concessions

With the Brexit trade talks on the brink of collapse , the European Commission today published a series of unilateral contingency measures to maintain air and road transport links between the UK and EU in the event of a no deal .
Eurocrats hope to convince Boris Johnson to offer significant concessions in the wrangling over the future relationship by demanding he mirrors the bloc ’ s draconian rules as the price for allowing British planes and lorries to operate in the bloc with a trade deal .
The Commission has gone further than its demands in the trade negotiations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ equivalent ” to the EU ’ s in order to take part in a no deal scheme .
British officials dismissed the bloc ’ s proposals , insisting Downing Street will soon set out its own plans .
A Government spokesman said : “ This kind of statement from the EU is expected - they set out a similar proposition in September 2019 .
“ The UK government has already set out its own plans in the event no FTA is reached and we ’ ve said that we would discuss practical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU ’ s contingency measures were only set out this morning and we will look at the details closely.
” The EU ’ s contingency document states : “ A level playing field requires that , even after the end of the transition period , the UK continues to apply sufficiently high and comparable standards.
” The EU is also demanding “ status quo ” access to Britain ’ s fishing waters for European vessels to prevent violent clashes between trawlermen and coastguards .
They want “ continued reciprocal access by EU and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waters ” for up to 12 months after a no-deal Brexit .
While the plans are not officially linked , EU chiefs will use the political threat of banning UK planes from the bloc unless the Prime Minister caves in the row over future fishing rights and common standards .
The Government spokesman added : “ Whether we leave the transition period on Canada or Australia style arrangements , we will take back control of our waters .
“ We would never accept arrangements and access to UK fishing waters and which are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ independent coastal state.
” Brussels published the documents ahead of what could be the final two days of trade negotiations between UK and EU officials .
UK Brexit envoy Lord Frost met with EU counterpart Michel Barnier after Mr Johnson warned a decision could be taken to quit the talks as early as Sunday .
Following her showdown talks with the Prime Minister , Ursula von der Leyen today said they had a “ difficult ” time in finding a potential compromise .
She said : “ It was a good conversation but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to grant access to the single market to our British friends - it is the largest single market in the world .
`` But the conditions have to be fair .
They have to be fair for our workers and for our companies , and this fine balance of fairness has not been achieved so far .
`` Our negotiators are still working and we will take a decision on Sunday . ''
MUST READ : Ireland begs EU to secure Brexit agreement as no deal chaos looms The top eurocrat also insisted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all eventualities , including not having a deal in place with the UK on January 1 , 2021 '' .
Ahead of the summit , European Council chief Charles Michel said he would push to “ defend the European interests ” in the battles over access to Britain ’ s coastal waters and the so-called level playing field .
He said : “ We want to continue negotiating but we also want to continue defending the European interests.
” Leaders at an EU summit in Brussels insisted the bloc should ready itself for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Stefan Lofven today said he was “ more gloomy ” after Mr Johnson left the Belgian capital without a Brexit trade deal .
DO N'T MISS Martin Lewis shares update for cashing in euros before Brexit [ ANALYSIS ] What is EU so afraid of ?
Brussels chiefs ' deep panic over own system [ INSIGHT ] EU treats other fishing nations fairly but Brexit Britain like pariah [ COMMENT ]

Brexit: Simon Coveney says EU’s demands ‘not unreasonable’
With the Brexit trade talks on the brink of collapse, the European Commission today published a series of unilateral contingency measures to maintain air and road transport links between the UK and EU in the event of a no deal. Eurocrats hope to convince Boris Johnson to offer significant concessions in the wrangling over the future relationship by demanding he mirrors the bloc’s draconian rules as the price for allowing British planes and lorries to operate in the bloc with a trade deal. The Commission has gone further than its demands in the trade negotiations and is insisting the UK agrees regulations “equivalent” to the EU’s in order to take part in a no deal scheme.
Trending
British officials dismissed the bloc’s proposals, insisting Downing Street will soon set out its own plans. A Government spokesman said: “This kind of statement from the EU is expected - they set out a similar proposition in September 2019. “The UK government has already set out its own plans in the event no FTA is reached and we’ve said that we would discuss practical arrangements with the EU. “The EU’s contingency measures were only set out this morning and we will look at the details closely.” The EU’s contingency document states: “A level playing field requires that, even after the end of the transition period, the UK continues to apply sufficiently high and comparable standards.” The EU is also demanding “status quo” access to Britain’s fishing waters for European vessels to prevent violent clashes between trawlermen and coastguards.
Ursula von der Leyen's no-deal Brexit plans demand UK sign up to EU standards
Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen met for in-person talks over the Brexit trade deal last night
They want “continued reciprocal access by EU and UK vessels to each other’s waters” for up to 12 months after a no-deal Brexit. While the plans are not officially linked, EU chiefs will use the political threat of banning UK planes from the bloc unless the Prime Minister caves in the row over future fishing rights and common standards. The Government spokesman added: “Whether we leave the transition period on Canada or Australia style arrangements, we will take back control of our waters. “We would never accept arrangements and access to UK fishing waters and which are incompatible with our future status as an independent coastal state.” Brussels published the documents ahead of what could be the final two days of trade negotiations between UK and EU officials.
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The two leaders failed to break the deadlock
UK Brexit envoy Lord Frost met with EU counterpart Michel Barnier after Mr Johnson warned a decision could be taken to quit the talks as early as Sunday. Following her showdown talks with the Prime Minister, Ursula von der Leyen today said they had a “difficult” time in finding a potential compromise. She said: “It was a good conversation but it is difficult. We are willing to grant access to the single market to our British friends - it is the largest single market in the world. "But the conditions have to be fair. They have to be fair for our workers and for our companies, and this fine balance of fairness has not been achieved so far. "Our negotiators are still working and we will take a decision on Sunday." MUST READ: Ireland begs EU to secure Brexit agreement as no deal chaos looms
Brexit end game: What needs to be done to get a trade and security deal across the line
The top eurocrat also insisted the bloc would be "prepared for all eventualities, including not having a deal in place with the UK on January 1, 2021". Ahead of the summit, European Council chief Charles Michel said he would push to “defend the European interests” in the battles over access to Britain’s coastal waters and the so-called level playing field. He said: “We want to continue negotiating but we also want to continue defending the European interests.” Leaders at an EU summit in Brussels insisted the bloc should ready itself for a no-deal Brexit. Swedish prime minister Stefan Lofven today said he was “more gloomy” after Mr Johnson left the Belgian capital without a Brexit trade deal. DON'T MISS
Martin Lewis shares update for cashing in euros before Brexit [ANALYSIS]
What is EU so afraid of? Brussels chiefs' deep panic over own system [INSIGHT]
EU treats other fishing nations fairly but Brexit Britain like pariah [COMMENT]
Martin Lewis shares advice for exchanging euros before Brexit


thedailyexpress--2020-12-10--Boris attacks EU plot to tie Brexit Britain's hands and ‘punish’ UK - ‘Not SENSIBLE!’

The Prime Minister stated the trade deal on offer from the European Union is not right for the UK .
Mr Johnson also outlined the major sticking points in the negotiations .
It comes after the Prime Minister travelled to Brussels on Wednesday evening to meet European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to try to clinch a last-minute deal .
The Prime Minister said : `` I have just updated Cabinet on where we ’ ve got to with our friends and partners in the EU .
`` They agreed very strongly with me that the deal on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right for the UK .
`` There ’ s a couple of things at least , the most important is that really just in the last couple of weeks they ’ ve brought back the idea of this equivalence between the UK and the EU .
`` Which basically means that whatever new laws they brought in , we would have to follow or else face punishment , sanctions tariffs or whatever .
`` It was put to me this was a bit like twins , the UK is one twin , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU decides to have a haircut then the UK has got to have a haircut or else face punishment , or if the EU decides to buy an expensive handbag , then the UK has to buy an expensive handbag , or else face tariffs . ''
Mr Johnson continued : `` Clearly that ’ s not a sensible way to proceed .
It ’ s unlike any other free trade deal .
`` It ’ s a way of keeping the UK kind of locked in the EU ’ s orbit , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ second thing is obviously fisheries .
Many years now after people have voted to leave the EU , we wouldn ’ t still have control of our waters .
`` The cabinet agreed very strongly that we ’ re really not there yet at all .
`` What I ’ ve said to our negotiators is that we ’ ve got keep going , and we will , I will go to Brussels , I will go to Paris , I will go to Berlin or wherever to try to get this home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possibility or prospect of coming out on Australian terms , which I believe are very good terms , and we as I say can prosper mightily in that future which is just around the corner . ''
Earlier today Brussels warned European Union states not to contemplate individual trade agreements with the UK .

Brexit: Johnson says EU equivalence is ‘not sensible’ for UK
The Prime Minister stated the trade deal on offer from the European Union is not right for the UK. Mr Johnson also outlined the major sticking points in the negotiations. It comes after the Prime Minister travelled to Brussels on Wednesday evening to meet European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to try to clinch a last-minute deal.
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The Prime Minister said: "I have just updated Cabinet on where we’ve got to with our friends and partners in the EU. "They agreed very strongly with me that the deal on the table is really not at the moment right for the UK. "There’s a couple of things at least, the most important is that really just in the last couple of weeks they’ve brought back the idea of this equivalence between the UK and the EU. "Which basically means that whatever new laws they brought in, we would have to follow or else face punishment, sanctions tariffs or whatever.
Boris Johnson attacks EU
Brexit: The stages of the UK and EU securing a trade agreement
"It was put to me this was a bit like twins, the UK is one twin, the EU is another, and if the EU decides to have a haircut then the UK has got to have a haircut or else face punishment, or if the EU decides to buy an expensive handbag, then the UK has to buy an expensive handbag, or else face tariffs." Mr Johnson continued: "Clearly that’s not a sensible way to proceed. It’s unlike any other free trade deal. "It’s a way of keeping the UK kind of locked in the EU’s orbit, in their regulatory orbit. "The second thing is obviously fisheries. Many years now after people have voted to leave the EU, we wouldn’t still have control of our waters.
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Boris Johnson arrives in Brussels for final Brexit talks
"The cabinet agreed very strongly that we’re really not there yet at all. "What I’ve said to our negotiators is that we’ve got keep going, and we will, I will go to Brussels, I will go to Paris, I will go to Berlin or wherever to try to get this home. "There’s always the possibility or prospect of coming out on Australian terms, which I believe are very good terms, and we as I say can prosper mightily in that future which is just around the corner." Earlier today Brussels warned European Union states not to contemplate individual trade agreements with the UK.
The economic loss of each EU member state in a no deal Brexit scenario


thedailyexpress--2020-12-10--Don't think about it! EU to STOP member states from signing deals with UK –even if no deal

If the two sides fail to come to an agreement , Brussels has stated member states must not break with the single market to sign any unilateral deals with the UK .
The warning came in Brussels ’ s no deal contingency plan document which was released today by the EU Commission today .
It warned member states : “ With regard to national measures , the Commission will continue to engage with Member States with the aim of ensuring that national measures do not fragment or undermine the Single Market .
“ National measures should also take into account @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relationship of the Union with any third country , in order preserve the integrity of the Single Market , limit the risk of fragmentation and avoid unequal treatment of Member States .
“ In any event , national measures of any kind have to comply with EU law , including the principle of sincere cooperation .
“ At any rate , the EU collectively has a stronger bargaining power than each Member State acting alone .
“ It must be used to ensure a level playing field between the EU and the United @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , independent nation on the doorstep of the single market has been one of the EU ’ s biggest fears throughout Brexit negotiations .
Due to this fear , the EU has imposed multiple regulatory demands on the UK .
It has done this under the guise of the so-called level playing field which would keep the UK bound to certain EU regulations and standards in several sectors .
JUST IN : No backing down : Brexiteer praises Boris for refusing to give in to EU If the UK were to exceed or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fears the single market could be damaged .
UK officials have so far expressed their concern over Brussels ’ s desire to tie Britain into its rules and standards .
Primarily , Britain argues that as it is now an independent nation , it should not have to adhere to these regulations .
The UK will formally leave the EU ’ s single market and customs unions as of January 1 – the end of the transition period .
Brexit crisis : Swedish PM ignores 'no Brexit ' talk and breaks silence [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make last second change to dinner plan [ Live blog ] Brexit warning : Britons set to lose bank accounts as deadline nears [ Update ] Although Northern Ireland will remain as part of the UK customs territory , due to its border with the Republic of Ireland , it will need to follow some regulatory checks on goods entering the country from Great Britain .
This week , Cabinet Office minister Micheal Gove met with European Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic , to discuss Northern Ireland 's status post-Brexit .
The protocol was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ states UK authorities will need to apply EU customs checks on goods entering Northern Ireland to stop the creation of a hard border on the island of Ireland .
Commenting after talks this week , Mr Gove said : “ Throughout this year there have been intense talks between ourselves and the European Commission in order to make sure we can resolve the issues on what 's called the Northern Ireland Protocol .
“ Of course people wanted to make sure there 's no border infrastructure at the Northern Ireland-Ireland border , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ secure part of the UK .

Brexit: Simon Coveney says EU’s demands ‘not unreasonable’
If the two sides fail to come to an agreement, Brussels has stated member states must not break with the single market to sign any unilateral deals with the UK. The warning came in Brussels’s no deal contingency plan document which was released today by the EU Commission today. It warned member states: “With regard to national measures, the Commission will continue to engage with Member States with the aim of ensuring that national measures do not fragment or undermine the Single Market.
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“National measures should also take into account the overarching priority with regard to the relationship of the Union with any third country, in order preserve the integrity of the Single Market, limit the risk of fragmentation and avoid unequal treatment of Member States. “In any event, national measures of any kind have to comply with EU law, including the principle of sincere cooperation. “At any rate, the EU collectively has a stronger bargaining power than each Member State acting alone. “This bargaining power benefits all Member States.
Brexit news: EU issues warning to members
Brexit news: Talks were held on Wednesday
“It must be used to ensure a level playing field between the EU and the United Kingdom.” The threat of a sovereign, independent nation on the doorstep of the single market has been one of the EU’s biggest fears throughout Brexit negotiations. Due to this fear, the EU has imposed multiple regulatory demands on the UK. It has done this under the guise of the so-called level playing field which would keep the UK bound to certain EU regulations and standards in several sectors. JUST IN: No backing down: Brexiteer praises Boris for refusing to give in to EU
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Brexit news: Mr Johnson and the EU official agreed for talks to continue
If the UK were to exceed or drop below these standards, the EU fears the single market could be damaged. UK officials have so far expressed their concern over Brussels’s desire to tie Britain into its rules and standards. Primarily, Britain argues that as it is now an independent nation, it should not have to adhere to these regulations. The UK will formally leave the EU’s single market and customs unions as of January 1 – the end of the transition period. DON'T MISS Brexit crisis: Swedish PM ignores 'no Brexit' talk and breaks silence [Latest]
Brexit LIVE: European leaders make last second change to dinner plan [Live blog]
Brexit warning: Britons set to lose bank accounts as deadline nears [Update]
Brexit news: Boris travelled to Brussels on Wednesday
Brexit news: Fisheries has remained an issue
Although Northern Ireland will remain as part of the UK customs territory, due to its border with the Republic of Ireland, it will need to follow some regulatory checks on goods entering the country from Great Britain. This week, Cabinet Office minister Micheal Gove met with European Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic, to discuss Northern Ireland's status post-Brexit. The protocol was drawn up within the withdrawal agreement and states UK authorities will need to apply EU customs checks on goods entering Northern Ireland to stop the creation of a hard border on the island of Ireland.
Brexit endgame
Commenting after talks this week, Mr Gove said: “Throughout this year there have been intense talks between ourselves and the European Commission in order to make sure we can resolve the issues on what's called the Northern Ireland Protocol. “Of course people wanted to make sure there's no border infrastructure at the Northern Ireland-Ireland border, but also that Northern Ireland can be a secure part of the UK.
Brexit news: Michel Barnier


thedailyexpress--2020-12-10--Boris Johnson risks being SUED by civil service union for refusing to sack Priti Patel

The Prime Minister has been accused of setting a `` dangerous precedent '' after he overruled his independent adviser , Sir Alex Allan , on her conduct .
Sir Alex quit his position after Mr Johnson chose to stand by Ms Patel despite being found to have bullied civil servants in an independent investigation .
Sir Alex noted there had been several instances of shouting and swearing at colleagues .
In the foreword of the ministerial code , written by the Prime Minister , members of Government are instructed : `` There must be no bullying and no harassment '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which represents senior civil servants , has started the process of legal action against Mr Johnson .
In a letter sent to Government lawyers yesterday , the union said : `` If the prime minister ’ s decision stands it sets a damaging precedent which gives carte blanche to the kind of unacceptable conduct which the Home Secretary was found to have committed . ''
It adds : “ Civil servants in the Home Office and beyond will rightly object to their conduct being measured against a standard of conduct and unacceptable bullying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ apply to the home secretary or other ministers.
” While Sir Alex 's report found Ms Patel 's actions met `` the definition of bullying adopted by the Civil Service '' , the Prime Minister is the ultimate arbitrator of whether the ministerial code has been broken .
While Mr Johnson accepted the findings of the report , he said he did not believe the Home Secretary 's actions amounted to a breach of the code as Ms Patel was unaware of her actions .
Sir Alex 's report said there was `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the impact of her behaviour , and no feedback was given to her at the time '' .
READ MORE : Rees-Mogg backs 'demanding ' Priti - 'She is EXACTLY what we need ! '
The FDA fears Mr Johnson 's decision risks indicating that Government ministers are not subject to the same standards as civil servants .
The union 's general secretary Dave Penman said taking the Prime Minister to court was not something he wished to do but he felt he had no choice .
He argued he had to take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a similar position in future .
DO N'T MISS : A robust exchange of views is not bullying , says SIR BERNARD INGHAM [ COMMENT ] Priti Patel says sorry in bullying furore as inquiry chief quits [ VIDEO ] Is raised voice REALLY bullying or are Government workers snowflakes ?
[ OPINION ] Mr Penman said : `` Forgotten in all of this sorry saga have been the civil servants who were found to have been bullied by one of the most powerful people in the country .
“ Let down by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have now been abandoned by the prime minister , who is also , ironically , the minister for the civil service .
“ The Prime Minister ’ s words , that he chose to include in his foreword to the ministerial code , that ‘ there must be no bullying and no harassment ’ are meaningless if they are not followed up by action . ''

Priti Patel: I am sorry if my behaviour has upset people
The Prime Minister has been accused of setting a "dangerous precedent" after he overruled his independent adviser, Sir Alex Allan, on her conduct. Sir Alex quit his position after Mr Johnson chose to stand by Ms Patel despite being found to have bullied civil servants in an independent investigation.
Sir Alex noted there had been several instances of shouting and swearing at colleagues. In the foreword of the ministerial code, written by the Prime Minister, members of Government are instructed: "There must be no bullying and no harassment". Now, the FDA union, which represents senior civil servants, has started the process of legal action against Mr Johnson. In a letter sent to Government lawyers yesterday, the union said: "If the prime minister’s decision stands it sets a damaging precedent which gives carte blanche to the kind of unacceptable conduct which the Home Secretary was found to have committed." READ MORE: Priti Patel undermined as Nicky Morgan denounces civil servants
Boris Johnson is being sued for not sacking Priti Patel
It adds: “Civil servants in the Home Office and beyond will rightly object to their conduct being measured against a standard of conduct and unacceptable bullying which, it seems, does not apply to the home secretary or other ministers.” While Sir Alex's report found Ms Patel's actions met "the definition of bullying adopted by the Civil Service", the Prime Minister is the ultimate arbitrator of whether the ministerial code has been broken. While Mr Johnson accepted the findings of the report, he said he did not believe the Home Secretary's actions amounted to a breach of the code as Ms Patel was unaware of her actions. Sir Alex's report said there was "no evidence that she was aware of the impact of her behaviour, and no feedback was given to her at the time". READ MORE: Rees-Mogg backs 'demanding' Priti - 'She is EXACTLY what we need!'
Priti Patel was found to have bullied Home Office staff
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Priti Patel has apologised for upsetting civil servants with her behaviour
Nicky Morgan says officials ‘undermined’ Priti Patel
Mr Penman said: "Forgotten in all of this sorry saga have been the civil servants who were found to have been bullied by one of the most powerful people in the country. “Let down by the conduct of their minister, they have now been abandoned by the prime minister, who is also, ironically, the minister for the civil service. “The Prime Minister’s words, that he chose to include in his foreword to the ministerial code, that ‘there must be no bullying and no harassment’ are meaningless if they are not followed up by action."
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thedailyexpress--2020-12-10--What is the EU so afraid of? Brussels chiefs' deep panic over own system exposed by expert

Dominic Walsh , a research fellow at the Policy Exchange think tank , outlined his thoughts in a series of tweets today .
He said : `` Something that 's really struck me in the Brexit negotiations this year is the surprisingly fragile confidence the EU seem to have in the competitive advantage conferred by the single market .
`` The single market is the most comprehensive trade area in the world .
It includes considerable regulatory alignment on products and services , free movement of people etc .
`` Yet the EU seems to think that a mere FTA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ single market . ''
Mr Walsh characterised the EU 's position as being that unless a Free Trade Agreement ( FTA ) was accompanied by `` extremely onerous level-playing field provisions '' then it was not worth doing , because of the perceived threat it would pose .
He added : `` But if you voted Remain ( as I did ) , the idea that a mere FTA with , say , enforceable non-regression clauses rather than 'dynamic alignment by the back door ' is going to give post-Brexit Britain a competitive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quite a strange one ... `` I mean , whatever happened to `` non-tariff barriers are more important than tariffs '' ?
Even with an FTA , the UK will face customs and regulatory barriers , no free movement and rules of origin .
`` Hardly a menu for out-competing the Single Market , you 'd think , even with more freedom on Level Playing Field .
So what 's going on here ?
JUST IN : EU finally gets it !
Brussels scrambles for no deal plans Daniel Kawczynski , Tory MP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` The EU officials are clearly so lacking in confidence in their own regulatory and taxation framework that rather than allow a British regulatory system to compete in their neighbourhood , they want to force us to be part of their laws and regulations .
`` Now most people in business or any other walk of life who are confident in their own policies welcome competition .
`` It is what constantly ensures that best practices are reviewed , updated and all the rest of it .
`` So most people benefit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and that is why they want to shackle us to their regulatory framework .
`` They are petrified of the United Kingdom outperforming them .
`` Britain already today , having complied with EU regulations , attracts a hugely disproportionate amount of trade compared with many other European countries .

German ambassador: Single market 'more important' than Brexit
Dominic Walsh, a research fellow at the Policy Exchange think tank, outlined his thoughts in a series of tweets today. He said: "Something that's really struck me in the Brexit negotiations this year is the surprisingly fragile confidence the EU seem to have in the competitive advantage conferred by the single market.
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"The single market is the most comprehensive trade area in the world. It includes considerable regulatory alignment on products and services, free movement of people etc. "Yet the EU seems to think that a mere FTA would allow post-Brexit UK to out-compete that single market." Mr Walsh characterised the EU's position as being that unless a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) was accompanied by "extremely onerous level-playing field provisions" then it was not worth doing, because of the perceived threat it would pose.
Michel Barnier, the EU's chief negotiator
Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels
He added: "But if you voted Remain (as I did), the idea that a mere FTA with, say, enforceable non-regression clauses rather than 'dynamic alignment by the back door' is going to give post-Brexit Britain a competitive trading advantage over the single market is quite a strange one... "I mean, whatever happened to "non-tariff barriers are more important than tariffs"? Even with an FTA, the UK will face customs and regulatory barriers, no free movement and rules of origin. "Hardly a menu for out-competing the Single Market, you'd think, even with more freedom on Level Playing Field. So what's going on here? JUST IN: EU finally gets it! Brussels scrambles for no deal plans
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Daniel Kawczynski speaking in the Commons
Dominic Walsh said the EU lacked confidence in its single market
Dominic Walsh suggested the EU feared a FTA would allow the UK to out-compete the single market
Daniel Kawczynski, Tory MP for Shrewsbury and Atcham, told Express.co.uk: "The EU officials are clearly so lacking in confidence in their own regulatory and taxation framework that rather than allow a British regulatory system to compete in their neighbourhood, they want to force us to be part of their laws and regulations. "Now most people in business or any other walk of life who are confident in their own policies welcome competition. "It is what constantly ensures that best practices are reviewed, updated and all the rest of it.
The countries which will be hardest hit by a no-deal Brexit
"So most people benefit from that but not the European Union, and that is why they want to shackle us to their regulatory framework. "They are petrified of the United Kingdom outperforming them. "Britain already today, having complied with EU regulations, attracts a hugely disproportionate amount of trade compared with many other European countries.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's Turkey is to some extent a vassal state, said Daniel Kawczynski


thedailyexpress--2020-12-11--MP pay rises CANCELLED after furious backlash - eye-watering salary plan scrapped

In a letter sent to MPs the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority ( IPSA ) , which sets MPs pay , @ @ @ @ @ impact of the Covid pandemic has had an unexpected , but different , effect on @ @ @ @ @ .
Boris hints he 's ready to change the law to BAN pay rises for @ @ @ @ @ that applying the forthcoming official statistic for public sector earnings growth would result in a @ @ @ @ @ would be inconsistent with the wider economic data and would not reflect the reality that @ @ @ @ @ year .
`` The IPSA Board has therefore decided that the salary for Members of @ @ @ @ @ the financial year 2021-22.
” The confirmation comes after fears the politicians would see their @ @ @ @ @ sector workers being frozen .
IPSA has been expected to recommend a 4.1 percent pay @ @ @ @ @ for MPs for the financial year starting April 2021 .

Boris Johnson quizzed on MP pay rise by Davison
In a letter sent to MPs the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA), which sets MPs pay, said: “The unprecedented impact of the Covid pandemic has had an unexpected, but different, effect on public and private sector earnings.
"It is clear that applying the forthcoming official statistic for public sector earnings growth would result in a salary increase for MPs that would be inconsistent with the wider economic data and would not reflect the reality that many constituents are facing this year. "The IPSA Board has therefore decided that the salaries for Members of Parliament will remain unchanged for the financial year 2021-22.” The confirmation comes after fears politicians would see their salaries ramped up despite public sector workers being frozen. IPSA had been expected to recommend a 4.1 percent pay rise, worth £3,300, for MPs for the financial year starting April 2021. READ MORE: Labour veterans hit out at Tories for opposing £3k pay rise for MPs
MPs have been told they won't get a pay rise next year
The rise would have brought the basic salary of an MP to an eye-watering £85,000 a year - nearly three times higher than the UK average. Both Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer had spoken out against the suggestion of a pay rise ahead of IPSA's letter. Last month the Prime Minister's spokesman said: "MPs’ salaries are obviously decided by an independent body but given the circumstances, the PM doesn’t believe MPs should be receiving a pay rise." Sir Keir said: "This year of all years we shouldn’t have it.” He added that if there was money available, it "should be spent on key workers – those who have been on the frontline through this pandemic”. There were even calls from some MPs for a change in the law to overrule IPSA if they went ahead with a rise. READ MORE: 'BBC should be ashamed!' MPs' bid to end debt collection visits
IPSA said it had taken the decision due to the 'unprecedented impact' of Covid
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The independent body was set up in 2009 after the MPs expenses scandal to examine and scrutinise expenses and decide on the basic salary of members. Responding to today's announcement, Tory MP Andrew Bridgen said the pay freeze was "inevitable", and Milton Keynes North MP Ben Everitt said it was "the right decision". Meanwhile, Labour MP Justin Madders said "you can't argue" with the reasons behind the freeze. John O’Connell, chief executive of the TaxPayers' Alliance, also welcomed the decision but said the model used to determine MPs pay should be modified. DON'T MISS:
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Boris urged to force ALL MPs and Whitehall staff to take 20% pay cut [REACTION]
COVID-19 payback: Sunak hints at huge tax hikes to pay for virus spree [WARNING]
IPSA was set up in 2009 following the MPs' expenses scandal
He said: “This victory for common sense is an early Christmas present for taxpayers. “With the public finances in such a dire state, many public sector salaries have rightly been capped - so it’s only fair that politicians’ pay rises are also postponed. “But if IPSA really wants parliament to deliver for the British public, MPs’ pay should be linked to the country’s economic performance.” IPSA's decision comes a week after the Scottish Parliament reached a similar verdict on the pay of MSPs.
Jeremy Vine caller says MP pay rise is a 'terrible idea'
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thedailyexpress--2020-12-11--Macron own-goal: MP mocks French president for forcing EU into accidental no deal

Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned the UK will need to prepare for no-deal at the end of the Brexit transition period on December 31 , despite ramping up efforts to get Brussels to back down by meeting Commission President Ursula von der Leyen this week .
He said the current proposals would keep Britain `` kind of locked in the EU 's orbit '' but insisted negotiators would `` go the extra mile '' in trying to get a deal .
The two sides have struggled to reach a breakthrough on issues such as the level playing field and fishing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a deal if they did n't get their own way over fisheries .
The EU contingency proposals for no-deal included for Europe 's fishing boats to continue having access to UK waters next year , but Mr Johnson quickly shot this down by saying this would never be `` accepted '' by the UK .
MP for Poole Robert Syms savaged France for pushing the EU too far over its demands .
He tweeted : `` A deal was possible a few weeks ago .
`` The French have pushed the EU to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal is inevitable . ''
Mr Macron said he still wanted a deal this morning .
but added Europeans had n't chosen for the UK to leave the bloc .
He said at the EU Summit Briefing : `` We have a principle : be united .
And I stand by that .
`` We have a negotiator , a firm strategy .
That means we have had a list of what is acceptable and what is not since the very beginning on fishing , energy , rules of fair competition which defend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` It 's normal that in negotiations where there 's a lot of people involved there are rumours , noises , fire and counterfire .
READ MORE : Macron in stitches as he mocks UK reporter 's French in briefing '' I respect all the parties involved and I hope we can agree to a deal that preserves the integrity of the EU , because Europeans have n't chosen Brexit , and that respects our British friends . ''
Paris ' Europe Minister Clément Beaune refused to back down by saying this week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` sacrificed '' in talks .
Mr Beaune also claimed that Mr Johnson tried to negotiate directly with Mr Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel , but that the EU rejected such bypassing of the Commission .
He said during the European Council summit : `` We never gave in to this pressure because our method , the unity of the mandate and the negotiator and the constant full support to chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier is the key to our success .
DO N'T MISS Macron rages at UK in explosive Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ VIDEO ] French fishermen panic as EU industry faces 'wipe-out ' in 20 days [ REVEALED ] EU countries round on Macron in desperate fight to save trade deal [ INSIGHT ] '' The European Council summit is not an appeals court for the Brexit negotiation . ''
Mr Johnson previously offered a lifeline to Mr Macron as he said the UK will do `` everything we possibly can '' to get a deal .
He said he would be willing to return to Brussels , or head to Paris or Berlin , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The EU appeared to be showing cracks as Ms von der Leyen backed down during a speech this morning .
She said : `` It is only fair that competitors to our own enterprises face the same conditions on our own market .
`` But , this is not to say that we would require the UK to follow us every time we decide to raise our level of ambition .
`` On fisheries , here , also , we continue to have a gap .
`` We have not yet found @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Brexit: Emmanuel Macron calls for 'fair agreement' on fisheries
Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned the UK will need to prepare for no-deal at the end of the Brexit transition period on December 31, despite ramping up efforts to get Brussels to back down by meeting Commission President Ursula von der Leyen this week. He said the current proposals would keep Britain "kind of locked in the EU's orbit" but insisted negotiators would "go the extra mile" in trying to get a deal. The two sides have struggled to reach a breakthrough on issues such as the level playing field and fishing, particularly as France threatened to veto a deal if they didn't get their own way over fisheries.
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The EU contingency proposals for no-deal included for Europe's fishing boats to continue having access to UK waters next year, but Mr Johnson quickly shot this down by saying this would never be "accepted" by the UK. MP for Poole Robert Syms savaged France for pushing the EU too far over its demands. He tweeted: "A deal was possible a few weeks ago. "The French have pushed the EU to move to a position which means no deal is inevitable."
Brexit news: Macron has refused to back down over fisheries
Mr Macron said he still wanted a deal this morning. but added Europeans hadn't chosen for the UK to leave the bloc. He said at the EU Summit Briefing: "We have a principle: be united. And I stand by that. "We have a negotiator, a firm strategy. That means we have had a list of what is acceptable and what is not since the very beginning on fishing, energy, rules of fair competition which defend the integrity of the common market. "It's normal that in negotiations where there's a lot of people involved there are rumours, noises, fire and counterfire. READ MORE: Macron in stitches as he mocks UK reporter's French in briefing
Brexit news: The UK has not budged to EU's demands on fishing
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"I respect all the parties involved and I hope we can agree to a deal that preserves the integrity of the EU, because Europeans haven't chosen Brexit, and that respects our British friends." Paris' Europe Minister Clément Beaune refused to back down by saying
this week that France's fishermen would not be "sacrificed" in talks. Mr Beaune also claimed that Mr Johnson tried to negotiate directly with Mr Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel, but that the EU rejected such bypassing of the Commission. He said during the European Council summit: "We never gave in to this pressure because our method, the unity of the mandate and the negotiator and the constant full support to chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier is the key to our success. DON'T MISS
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Brexit news: Boris Johnson met Ursula von der Leyen this week
"The European Council summit is not an appeals court for the Brexit negotiation." Mr Johnson previously offered a lifeline to Mr Macron as he said the UK
will do "everything we possibly can" to get a deal. He said he would be willing to return to Brussels, or head to Paris or Berlin, to get a deal over the line. The EU appeared to be showing cracks as Ms von der Leyen backed down during a speech this morning.
Brexit news: The UK's transition period will end on December 31
She said: "It is only fair that competitors to our own enterprises face the same conditions on our own market. "But, this is not to say that we would require the UK to follow us every time we decide to raise our level of ambition. "On fisheries, here, also, we continue to have a gap. "We have not yet found the solutions to bridge our differences.
Brexit news: Boris Johnson hinted a deal is unlikely
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thedailyexpress--2020-12-11--That's how easy it is! UK signs ANOTHER deal as Vietnam brings Brexit bonanza to £193BN

Trade secretary Liz Truss announced the deal on Twitter in a post celebrating the huge strides forward already being made by the UK outside of the EU .
While talks with Brussels itself remains stagnant , dozens of countries across the world have already signed up .
Ms Truss said : `` Today we secured a trade deal with Vietnam Flag of United KingdomFlag of Vietnam .
`` We have now agreed deals with 57 countries , covering £193bn of trade .
`` This is unprecedented .
No country has ever moved so fast to negotiate so many deals simultaneously @ @ @ @ @ @ @ negotiators . ''
Today 's deal replaces the existing EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement ( EVFTA ) and will ensure Britain does not lose access to preferential tariffs in one of the fastest-growing and most open economies in Asia .
The British Embassy in Hanoi said : `` Today , UK International Trade Secretary Liz Truss and Vietnam Minister of Industry and Trade Tran Tuan Anh concluded the UK-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement .
`` This will be a further boost to UK-Vietnam bilateral trade , which has tripled between 2010 and 2019 to £5.7bn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all tariffs will be eliminated after seven years including key trade in machinery and pharmaceutical products .
According to figures from the Vietnamese government , the UK is the country 's largest export market in Europe .
JUST IN : Brexit LIVE : EU rejects Boris Johnson 's last minute Brexit offer The deal will also be a sign of the UK 's passage to joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership , of which Vietnam is a member .
Made up of 11 countries , the bloc is one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and accounted for 13 percent of the world 's GDP as of 2019 .
With the introduction of the UK , it is thought GDP could rise to 16 percent .
Overall , the CPTPP reduced tariffs on 95 percent of good within the area .
DO N'T MISS Boris erupts at EU 'ratchet clause ' in Brexit rant [ Latest ] Brexiteer celebrates looming no deal as Boris defies EU demands [ Update ] EU power grab !
Germany 's Angela Merkel launches European Health Union [ Insight ]

Department for International Trade show UK trade deals since 2019
Trade secretary Liz Truss announced the deal on Twitter in a post celebrating the huge strides forward already being made by the UK outside of the EU. While talks with Brussels remain stagnant, dozens of countries across the world have already signed up to partner with the UK. Ms Truss said: "Today we secured a trade deal with Vietnam.
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"We have now agreed deals with 57 countries, covering £193bn of trade. "This is unprecedented. No country has ever moved so fast to negotiate so many deals simultaneously. "Well done to our brilliant negotiators." Today's deal replaces the existing EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) and will ensure Britain does not lose access to preferential tariffs in one of the fastest-growing and most open economies in Asia.
The UK has signed a lucrative trade deal with Vietnam
Brexit news: The deal will roll over existing measures agreed with the EU
The British Embassy in Hanoi said: "Today, UK International Trade Secretary Liz Truss and Vietnam Minister of Industry and Trade Tran Tuan Anh concluded the UK-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement. "This will be a further boost to UK-Vietnam bilateral trade, which has tripled between 2010 and 2019 to £5.7bn." Within the deal, almost all tariffs will be eliminated after seven years including key trade in machinery and pharmaceutical products. According to figures from the Vietnamese government, the UK is the country's largest export market in Europe. JUST IN: Brexit LIVE: EU rejects Boris Johnson's last minute Brexit offer
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Brexit news: Liz Truss signed the deal today
The deal will also be a sign of the UK's passage to joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), of which Vietnam is a member. Made up of 11 countries, the bloc is one of the fastest-growing trade alliances in the world and accounted for 13 percent of the world's GDP as of 2019. With the introduction of the UK, it is thought GDP could rise to 16 percent in the alliance. Overall, the CPTPP reduces tariffs on 95 percent of good within the area. DON'T MISS
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Brexit news: Liz Truss signed a deal with Singapore this week
Brexit news: Liz Truss
As of 2019, the UK conducted trade worth up to £110billion while British investments in the CPTPP countries accounted for £98billion in 2018. In another sign of the UK future membership of the trade alliance, Ms Truss also signed a continuity agreement with Singapore on December 10. Singapore is the UK's largest trading partner in the South-East Asia region. The trade relationship between the two states was worth £17.6billion last year while both Ms Truss and her Singaporean counterpart, Chan Chun Sing, signalled their intent to launch negotiations for a Digital Economy Agreement.
Economic losses in the EU
Commenting on both deals Ms Truss said: "Both these agreements are vital for the UK’s future as an independent trading nation. "Not only do they lock in billions of pounds worth of trade, but they also pave the way for new digital partnerships and joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership. "This will play to the UK’s strengths, as we become a hub for tech and digital trade with influence far beyond our shores, defining our role in the world for decades to come.
Brexit news: The deal with Canada was agreed this week


thedailyexpress--2020-12-11--Boris set to cave? PM ready to 'go the extra mile and explore every avenue' to reach deal

The Prime Minister and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen have agreed a firm deadline of Sunday to decide if a trade deal can be done .
With just two days before the climax of the negotiations , Mr Johnson has said he is ready to do whatever it takes to secure a pact with Britain 's closest neighbour .
The UK 's chief negotiator , David Frost , is currently in Brussels as he and his EU counterpart , Michel Barnier , desperately attempt to find a way through the deadlock ahead of Sunday 's cut off .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's spokesman said : `` The UK negotiating team is in Brussels to continue talks with the EU .
`` As the Prime Minister has said , we remain committed to exploring every last avenue to reach a deal that fully respects UK sovereignty . ''
He added Mr Johnson had been clear he was ready to “ go the extra mile ” to secure a deal .
The UK and Brussels remain at loggerheads on the issues of fishing , state aid , and governance .
Mr Johnson has said to accept @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to UK fishing waters or to tie the country to Brussels ' rules would be to give up Britain 's sovereignty .
Meanwhile , the EU27 have said their demands are `` proportionate '' and necessary to secure access to the single market .
So far the Prime Minister has held his nerve in the face of pressure from the continent to cave to their demands .
On Wednesday he flew to Brussels to tell the European Commission President face to face over dinner that he would not back down on his demands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to a shift in their positions , they agreed to resume talks in the hope of a breakthrough by the end of the weekend .
No10 has declined to clarify what new avenues are being explored to try and secure a trade deal .
The EU transition period ends on December 31 , giving the UK and Brussels just three weeks to secure a deal and ratify it .

Brexit: Boris Johnson criticises ‘ratchet clause’ from EU
The Prime Minister and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen have agreed a firm deadline of Sunday to decide if a trade deal can be done. With just two days before the climax of the negotiations, Mr Johnson has said he is ready to do whatever it takes to secure a pact with Britain's closest neighbour.
The UK's chief negotiator, David Frost, is currently in Brussels as he and his EU counterpart, Michel Barnier, desperately attempt to find a way through the deadlock ahead of Sunday's cut off. Speaking this afternoon, the Prime Minister's spokesman said: "The UK negotiating team is in Brussels to continue talks with the EU. "As the Prime Minister has said, we remain committed to exploring every last avenue to reach a deal that fully respects UK sovereignty." He added Mr Johnson had been clear he was ready to “go the extra mile” to secure a deal. READ MORE ON OUR BREXIT LIVE BLOG
Boris Johnson is ready to 'explore every avenue' to reach a deal
The UK and Brussels remain at loggerheads on the issues of fishing, state aid, and governance. Mr Johnson has said to accept the EU's demands for continued access to UK fishing waters or to tie the country to Brussels' rules would be to give up Britain's sovereignty. Meanwhile, the EU27 have said their demands are "proportionate" and necessary to secure access to the single market. So far the Prime Minister has held his nerve in the face of pressure from the continent to cave to their demands. If no deal is agreed by the end of the weekend the EU believes it will have run out of time to ensure the deal can be voted on by MEPs in the European Parliament by the New Year's Eve deadline. READ MORE: Meddling peers in House of Lords send Gove warning letter
Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen agreed to continue negotiations until Sunday
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Last night Boris Johnson announced he had told his Cabinet to prepare for no deal
On Wednesday he flew to Brussels to tell the European Commission President face to face over dinner that he would not back down on his demands. However, despite neither publically admitting to a shift in their positions, they agreed to resume talks in the hope of a breakthrough by the end of the weekend. No10 has declined to clarify what new avenues are being explored to try and secure a trade deal. The EU transition period ends on December 31, giving the UK and Brussels just three weeks to secure a deal and ratify it. DON'T MISS:
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thedailyexpress--2020-12-11--'TWO fingers to Brussels!' Brexiteer celebrates looming no deal as Boris defies EU demands

Former Brexit Party MEP Martin Daubney ridiculed EU leaders , after European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen admitted that @ @ @ @ @ now the likeliest outcome .
Mr Daubney , who now hosts Unlocked , celebrated the @ @ @ @ @ Jeremy Vine Show , suggesting he will `` raise a glass to Brexit and two @ @ @ @ @ Christmas .
The Jeremy Vine panel had been discussing whether a no deal Brexit `` @ @ @ @ @ .
He said : `` It will come as zero surprise to you and the @ @ @ @ @ only make my Christmas , it would make the year .
`` It would make @ @ @ @ @ half years of fighting for the 17.4 million and the democratic will of the country @ @ @ @ @ will be with my mother and father , I 've only seen them once this @ @ @ @ @ passionate Brexiteers .
`` I will embrace them and we will celebrate .
We will @ @ @ @ @ and two fingers to Brussels . ''

Brexit: Martin Daubney says he’s ‘raising two fingers to Brussels’
Former Brexit Party MEP Martin Daubney ridiculed EU leaders, after European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen admitted that a no deal Brexit is now the likeliest outcome. Mr Daubney, who now hosts Unlocked, celebrated the news on Channel 5's Jeremy Vine Show, suggesting he will "raise a glass to Brexit and two fingers to Brussels" at Christmas. The Jeremy Vine panel had been discussing whether a no deal Brexit "would ruin Christmas plans".
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He said: "It will come as zero surprise to you and the viewers, it would not only make my Christmas, it would make the year. "It would make the past four and a half years of fighting for the 17.4 million and the democratic will of the country completed worthwhile. "I will be with my mother and father, I've only seen them once this year, they are both passionate Brexiteers. "I will embrace them and we will celebrate. We will raise a glass to Brexit and two fingers to Brussels." JUST IN: EU power grab! Germany's Angela Merkel launches European Health Union
Former Brexit Party MEP Martin Daubney ridiculed EU leaders on the Jeremy Vine Show
Weeks of intensive talks between officials have failed to overcome obstacles in key areas
The former MEP went on to condemn the EU's behaviour in the negotiations, saying: "All they have done for the last four and a half years is try to humiliate, not negotiate. "This will be a victory. But, this is Christmas, there is a lot of pantomime still to go, Jeremy. This isn't over until it's over." Mr Daubney, who raised two fingers in his rallying cry, later apologised on Twitter. He tweeted: "I just got told off live on-air for flicking a V-sign to Brussels on Jeremy Vine.
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Brexit: Emmanuel Macron calls for 'fair agreement' on fisheries
Time is running out to reach an agreement before the UK stops following EU trade rules
Daubney, who now hosts Unlocked, celebrated the news on Channel 5's Jeremy Vine Show


thedailyexpress--2020-12-11--EU plots new power grab as Merkel announces European Health Union plan to 'set example'

Angela Merkel has said that Brussels should now focus efforts on creating a European Health Union .
The German Chancellor added the bombshell remark at the end of her speech alongside European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen .
She told reporters that after six months of Germany having the EU presidency , she is convinced that Brussels should work on a Europe-wide health union .
Mrs Merkel and Germany held the EU presidency during the height of the coronavirus pandemic this year .
She said : `` We have left a bit of unfinished business for our Portuguese successor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ luck with that .
`` I enjoyed the Council presidency , even though we were not able to do lots of things that we wanted to do .
`` Coronavirus created lots of work for us . ''
JUST IN : Brexit LIVE : We 've had enough of Barnier !
Boris courts Macron & Merkel She continued : `` I would like to thank Ursula von der Leyen .
She has had to contend with a disparate group of heads of state and government .
`` There was a lot of confusion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of reacting to the virus .
`` Now the coordination has improved and it bears the Commission 's stamp .
The coordination of vaccines is a good example of that .
`` After these six months , I am convinced of the need to work on a European Health Union to set an example for other important issues . ''
Viewers were stunned by the plans , tweeting : `` Why do they all dance to Merkel 's tune ?
I thought the EU was a project of equals . ''
Another added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ problem is always more EU , every single time . ''
One joked : `` The EU is just a trading bloc , right ? ''
However , others suggested Mrs Merkel could be the head of the new European Health Union `` once her Chancellorship is over next year '' .
They cited her qualifications as a scientist and politician as `` perfect '' for the future role .
Others urged the EU to focus on existing plans , including the banking union and the capital market union .
BBC backlash : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rant [ VIDEO ] French fishermen panic as EU industry faces 'wipe-out ' in 20 days [ INSIGHT ] BBC clash erupts as Today host accuses Labour of siding with the EU [ INTERVIEW ]

Angela Merkel outlines plans for European Health Union
Angela Merkel has said that Brussels should now focus efforts on creating a European Health Union. The German Chancellor added the bombshell remark at the end of her speech alongside European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. She told reporters that after six months of Germany having the EU presidency, she is convinced that Brussels should work on a Europe-wide health union.
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Mrs Merkel and Germany held the EU presidency during the height of the coronavirus pandemic this year. She said: "We have left a bit of unfinished business for our Portuguese successor, and I wish them all the luck with that. "I enjoyed the Council presidency, even though we were not able to do lots of things that we wanted to do. "Coronavirus created lots of work for us." JUST IN: Brexit LIVE: We've had enough of Barnier! Boris courts Macron & Merkel
Angela Merkel has said that Brussels should now focus efforts on creating a European Health Union
Merkel and Germany held the EU presidency during the height of the coronavirus pandemic this year
She continued: "I would like to thank Ursula von der Leyen. She has had to contend with a disparate group of heads of state and government. "There was a lot of confusion at the beginning, with different ways of reacting to the virus. "Now the coordination has improved and it bears the Commission's stamp. The coordination of vaccines is a good example of that. "After these six months, I am convinced of the need to work on a European Health Union to set an example for other important issues."
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EU leaders resolved a bitter dispute with Poland and Hungary to salvage the bloc’s landmark coronavirus recovery plan
Angela Merkel urges Germans to follow coronavirus guidelines
Viewers were stunned by the plans, tweeting: "Why do they all dance to Merkel's tune? I thought the EU was a project of equals." Another added: "The answer to every European problem is always more EU, every single time." One joked: "The EU is just a trading bloc, right?" However, others suggested Mrs Merkel could be the head of the new European Health Union "once her Chancellorship is over next year". They cited her qualifications as a scientist and politician as "perfect" for the future role. Others urged the EU to focus on existing plans, including the banking union and the capital market union. DON'T MISS: BBC backlash: Corporation urged to hire Brexiteers in furious rant [VIDEO]
French fishermen panic as EU industry faces 'wipe-out' in 20 days [INSIGHT]
BBC clash erupts as Today host accuses Labour of siding with the EU [INTERVIEW]
German Chancellor Angela Merkel has laid out plans for a European Health Union