thedailyexpress--2020-07-05--Brexit panic for Sturgeon as SNP terrified of Boris 'plot' for huge Scottish 'power grab'

In a letter to Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove , Mr Russell said he is concerned about proposals for an external body which would `` test '' whether a bill in Holyrood affected the UK 's internal trade market .
The letter also details concerns about plans for a `` mutual recognition regime '' , which he said could lower regulatory standards beyond what the Scottish Parliament found acceptable .
Mr Russell stressed that the proposals which are yet to be formally published `` ignore the reality and history of devolution '' and would be opposed by the Scottish Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK Government may compromise on regulatory standards in pursuit of trade deals .
It comes as the deadline to extend the Brexit transition period with the EU ended at the end of last month despite a deadlock over a “ level-playing field ” on trade regulations which is yet to be solved .
Discussing the letter , the MSP and senior SNP member , said : `` The Tories know they ca n't win an election to the Scottish Parliament so have come up with a scheme to undermine it instead .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ underhand manner , to introduce a new law which would effectively hand power to Tory ministers in devolved policy areas , under the guise of protecting what they call the so-called UK internal market after Brexit .
`` Under their plans , if Westminster adopts lower standards in devolved areas , Scotland could be forced to accept them , regardless of the view of our Parliament.
” READ MORE : Sturgeon faces inquiry : Demands for investigation over SNP school plan Mr Russell stressed the Scottish Government was considering setting up for “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be responsible for setting up a new 'internal market ' test for any new Holyrood legislation .
Mr Russell continued in the letter : `` If this law had been in force , our ability to keep tuition-free for students in Scotland while charging students from the rest of the UK , to set a minimum unit price for alcohol , or introduce a smoking ban before the rest of the UK could all have been in jeopardy .
`` This scheme amounts to using Brexit as a cover to mount the biggest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and we will do all we can to stop it from happening . ''
However , Mr Gove accused him of trying to `` confect '' a political row with Westminster .
DO N'T MISS : Sturgeon border warning : Fines of thousands for those who breach rules [ REVEAL ] Sturgeon told to END 'party political broadcast ' briefings [ REVEAL ] Scotland rejects Boris ' bridge plan and demands cash instead [ REVEAL ] A spokesman for Michael Gove said : `` It 's disappointing that the SNP administration has tried @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pursue their separatist agenda over rumours .
`` The SNP withdrew from work on the UK internal market over a year ago , have since challenged the existence of the UK internal market and now threaten our common frameworks programme .
`` As we cautiously emerge from coronavirus and focus on our country 's recovery , we will consider how to bring people in the UK closer together , not put up more barriers.
” The spokesman outlined that sixty percent of Scottish trade was with the rest of the UK , worth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we wo n't let the SNP threaten that ” .

Nicola Sturgeon could make ‘stupid mistake’ warns former deputy
The Scottish Government's Constitution Secretary Michael Russell said proposals to enshrine a UK "internal market" after Brexit would seriously undermine devolution. He branded the controversial proposals a "power grab" on responsibilities which are currently held by Holyrood.
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In a letter to Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove, Mr Russell said he is concerned about proposals for an external body which would "test" whether a bill in Holyrood affected the UK's internal trade market. The letter also details concerns about plans for a "mutual recognition regime", which he said could lower regulatory standards beyond what the Scottish Parliament found acceptable. Mr Russell stressed that the proposals which are yet to be formally published "ignore the reality and history of devolution" and would be opposed by the Scottish Government. It comes following major concerns that the UK Government may compromise on regulatory standards in pursuit of trade deals.
The SNP have launched an attack on Westminster.
UK chief negotiator David Frost declined a two year Brexit extension.
It comes as the deadline to extend the Brexit transition period with the EU ended at the end of last month despite a deadlock over a “level-playing field” on trade regulations which is yet to be solved. Discussing the letter, the MSP and senior SNP member, said: "The Tories know they can't win an election to the Scottish Parliament so have come up with a scheme to undermine it instead. "They are plotting, in an underhand manner, to introduce a new law which would effectively hand power to Tory ministers in devolved policy areas, under the guise of protecting what they call the so-called UK internal market after Brexit. "Under their plans, if Westminster adopts lower standards in devolved areas, Scotland could be forced to accept them, regardless of the view of our Parliament.” READ MORE: Sturgeon faces inquiry: Demands for investigation over SNP school plan
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Michael Russell took a swipe at Boris Johnson.
Mr Russell stressed the Scottish Government was considering setting up for “an unelected oversight body” which would be responsible for setting up a new 'internal market' test for any new Holyrood legislation. Mr Russell continued in the letter: "If this law had been in force, our ability to keep tuition-free for students in Scotland while charging students from the rest of the UK, to set a minimum unit price for alcohol, or introduce a smoking ban before the rest of the UK could all have been in jeopardy. "This scheme amounts to using Brexit as a cover to mount the biggest power grab on the Scottish Parliament yet and we will do all we can to stop it from happening." However, Mr Gove accused him of trying to "confect" a political row with Westminster. DON'T MISS:
Sturgeon border warning: Fines of thousands for those who breach rules [REVEAL]
Sturgeon told to END 'party political broadcast' briefings [REVEAL]
Scotland rejects Boris' bridge plan and demands cash instead [REVEAL]
Nicola Sturgeon has protested against the UK leaving the EU.
A spokesman for Michael Gove said: "It's disappointing that the SNP administration has tried to confect yet another political row to pursue their separatist agenda over rumours. "The SNP withdrew from work on the UK internal market over a year ago, have since challenged the existence of the UK internal market and now threaten our common frameworks programme. "As we cautiously emerge from coronavirus and focus on our country's recovery, we will consider how to bring people in the UK closer together, not put up more barriers.” The spokesman outlined that sixty percent of Scottish trade was with the rest of the UK, worth over £50 billion to Scotland stressing “we won't let the SNP threaten that”.
Scottish trade is feared to be in doubt, Mr Russell said.


thedailyexpress--2020-07-05--Nigel Farage enjoys first pint in a pub after 103 days in lockdown

He said he was fulfilling his “ patriotic duty ” by ordering his first pint .
The village has special significance for the 56-year-old .
He grew up in the Downe and was christened in the local church .
He praised the pub ’ s contribution to the local community during the pandemic .
“ All during lockdown , they ’ ve been doing off-sales of beer , ” he said .
“ They ’ ve been selling fruit and veg at the front.
” Mr Farage went through the new routine required of pub-goers by sanitising his hands and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there is a local outbreak of Covid-19 .
He ordered a pint of Westerham Brewery ’ s Summer Perle , an extra pale ale .
He said : “ It ’ s July 4 .
It ’ s the big opening up day .
“ Campsites all over the country are opening up and after months of beautiful weather , what have we got ?
Wind and rain.
” His appearance in the pub triggered a social media storm .
Police were urged to investigate whether he had broken quarantine rules .
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Tulsa , Oklahoma , on June 20 .
UK Government regulations state that people returning to the UK must “ not leave the place you ’ re staying for the first 14 days you ’ re in the UK except in very limited situations ” .
Sir Ed Davey , the acting leader of the Liberal Democrats , said on Twitter : “ I ’ ve written to Kent Police asking them to investigate whether Nigel Farage has broken quarantine rules ...
Millions of people have had to abide by the rules @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Former Brexit Party MEP Alexandra Phillips shot back : “ The police have better things to do , you sad little man .
Getting an officer to go to Nigel ’ s house to tell him he shouldn ’ t have gone to the pub is a total waste of resources and makes you look like a pathetic , attention-seeking twerp.
” In an online message , Mr Farage said : “ To all those screaming and shouting about me going to the pub ...
I have been back from the USA for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – the result was negative .
Sorry to disappoint you .
Cheers !
”

Nigel Farage ventures out for 'Super Saturday' pint at pub
He said he was fulfilling his “patriotic duty” by ordering his first pint. The village has special significance for the 56-year-old. He grew up in the Downe and was christened in the local church. He praised the pub’s contribution to the local community during the pandemic.
“All during lockdown, they’ve been doing off-sales of beer,” he said. “They’ve been selling fruit and veg at the front.” Mr Farage went through the new routine required of pub-goers by sanitising his hands and writing down his contact details in case there is a local outbreak of Covid-19. He ordered a pint of Westerham Brewery’s Summer Perle, an extra pale ale. The arch-Brexiteer lamented the gloomy weather. He said: “It’s July 4. It’s the big opening up day. “Campsites all over the country are opening up and after months of beautiful weather, what have we got? Wind and rain.”
Nigel Farage had his first pint in a pub as lockdown eases
His appearance in the pub triggered a social media storm. Police were urged to investigate whether he had broken quarantine rules. Mr Farage attended President Trump’s rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on June 20. UK Government regulations state that people returning to the UK must “not leave the place you’re staying for the first 14 days you’re in the UK except in very limited situations”. Sir Ed Davey, the acting leader of the Liberal Democrats, said on Twitter: “I’ve written to Kent Police asking them to investigate whether Nigel Farage has broken quarantine rules... Millions of people have had to abide by the rules, and he should as well.” Former Brexit Party MEP Alexandra Phillips shot back: “The police have better things to do, you sad little man. Getting an officer to go to Nigel’s house to tell him he shouldn’t have gone to the pub is a total waste of resources and makes you look like a pathetic, attention-seeking twerp.” In an online message, Mr Farage said: “To all those screaming and shouting about me going to the pub... I have been back from the USA for 2 weeks and I have been tested – the result was negative. Sorry to disappoint you. Cheers!”


thedailyexpress--2020-07-05--Keir Starmer EXPOSED: Labour leader's crucial weakness playing into hands of Boris Johnson

The former shadow Brexit secretary and Director of Public Prosecutions took over as Labour leader on April 4 , but is already faced with a huge uphill challenge to dethrone the Prime Minister from 10 Downing Street .
Sir Keir took over a party in utter disarray after Jeremy Corbyn led the opposition to its worst general election performance in 80 years towards the end of last year .
The Prime Minister and the Tories secured a massive 80-seat majority in the House of Commons , enabling Mr Johnson to quickly push through his Brexit and provide the party with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Labour saw thousands of voters turn against the party in the general election , losing traditional heartlands and constituencies in the north of England that it had held and relied on for decades .
But crucially , Sir Keir has faced off and clashed with Mr Johnson during Prime Minister 's Questions ( PMQs ) in the Commons on an almost weekly basis since becoming Labour leader three months ago - with the British public closely assessing his performance .
Sir Keir has been able to question the Prime Minister on the Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which it has been heavily criticised for - from everything on recognising the seriousness of the outbreak early enough , to the national lockdown .
But Wyn Grant , British political scientist and Professor of Politics at the University of Warwick , warned Sir Keir 's task to return Labour to success is n't being helped by some of the traits he has displayed whilst speaking in the Commons .
He told Express.co.uk : `` There is , of course , a mountain to climb , but it needs to be remembered that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ win them .
`` The Conservative lead has shrunk and voters who switched to them in the Midlands and the North have not become Conservatives overnight .
The Government will need to deliver and in particular to avoid an economic slump .
`` I do n't think Starmer 's task is impossible , but it is challenging .
`` He is competent , but does he have charisma ?
Behaving like a lawyer in court , such as saying ' I rest my case ' at PMQs recently lays him open to Boris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ witness , Mr Speaker . '
`` Focus groups have been telling Johnson that voters see Starmer as much as a lawyer as a politician . ''
Political experts have warned the magnitude of the task ahead of Sir Keir to return Labour to the top again is already evident , as he would have to create British political history to topple the Prime Minister and the Tories .
John Macdonald , Head of Government Affairs at the Adam Smith Institute think tank , told this website `` Sir Keir has benefited not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in demonstrating a degree of competency at the opposition dispatch box not seen in a Labour leader for a long time .
`` However , no major party has ever increased their number of MPs by over 60 percent , which Starmer would need to accomplish to win in 2024 .
`` He must neutralise the toxicity at the heart of Labour , create a popular narrative , and build a cohesive electoral coalition .
`` To do what no opposition party has done before is no ordinary mountain to climb . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Everest proportions .
Time will tell if he , or another Labour leader , is the one to make it to the top . ''
The latest warnings come two weeks after Labour was told it has a `` mountain to climb to get back into power in the next five years '' in a damning report that laid bare the crumbling leadership of Mr Corbyn and huge challenge facing Sir Keir .

Keir Starmer slams Boris Johnson over coronavirus response
The former shadow Brexit secretary and Director of Public Prosecutions took over as Labour leader on April 4, but is already faced with a huge uphill challenge to dethrone the Prime Minister from 10 Downing Street. Sir Keir took over a party in utter disarray after Jeremy Corbyn led the opposition to its worst general election performance in 80 years towards the end of last year. The Prime Minister and the Tories secured a massive 80-seat majority in the House of Commons, enabling Mr Johnson to quickly push through his Brexit and provide the party with huge power in any parliamentary votes.
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Labour saw thousands of voters turn against the party in the general election, losing traditional heartlands and constituencies in the north of England that it had held and relied on for decades. But crucially, Sir Keir has faced off and clashed with Mr Johnson during Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs) in the Commons on an almost weekly basis since becoming Labour leader three months ago - with the British public closely assessing his performance. Sir Keir has been able to question the Prime Minister on the Government's handling of the coronavirus crisis - which it has been heavily criticised for - from everything on recognising the seriousness of the outbreak early enough, to the national lockdown. But Wyn Grant, British political scientist and Professor of Politics at the University of Warwick, warned Sir Keir's task to return Labour to success isn't being helped by some of the traits he has displayed whilst speaking in the Commons.
Keir Starmer has been warned he is displaying a key weakness that is playing into the hands of Boris
Keir Starmer is already faced with a huge uphill battle as Labour leader
He is competent, but does he have charisma? Behaving like a lawyer in court, such as saying 'I rest my case' at PMQs recently lays him open to Boris Johnson's counter thrusts such as 'Your witness, Mr Speaker.' Wyn Grant
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He told Express.co.uk: "There is, of course, a mountain to climb, but it needs to be remembered that governments lose elections as much as oppositions win them. "The Conservative lead has shrunk and voters who switched to them in the Midlands and the North have not become Conservatives overnight. The Government will need to deliver and in particular to avoid an economic slump. "I don't think Starmer's task is impossible, but it is challenging. "He is competent, but does he have charisma? Behaving like a lawyer in court, such as saying 'I rest my case' at PMQs recently lays him open to Boris Johnson's counter thrusts such as 'Your witness, Mr Speaker.'
The Labour leader has already clashed with Boris Johnson on several occasions during PMQs
"Focus groups have been telling Johnson that voters see Starmer as much as a lawyer as a politician." Political experts have warned the magnitude of the task ahead of Sir Keir to return Labour to the top again is already evident, as he would have to create British political history to topple the Prime Minister and the Tories. John Macdonald, Head of Government Affairs at the Adam Smith Institute think tank, told this website "Sir Keir has benefited not only in not being Corbyn, but in demonstrating a degree of competency at the opposition dispatch box not seen in a Labour leader for a long time. "However, no major party has ever increased their number of MPs by over 60 percent, which Starmer would need to accomplish to win in 2024.
The Prime Minister has come in for criticism from Keir Starmer during PMQs
Jeremy Corbyn led Labour to a disastrous general election result in December
"He must neutralise the toxicity at the heart of Labour, create a popular narrative, and build a cohesive electoral coalition. "To do what no opposition party has done before is no ordinary mountain to climb." "Sir Keir is facing a challenge of Everest proportions. Time will tell if he, or another Labour leader, is the one to make it to the top." The latest warnings come two weeks after Labour was told it has a "mountain to climb to get back into power in the next five years" in a damning report that laid bare the crumbling leadership of Mr Corbyn and huge challenge facing Sir Keir.
The main reason for UK voters not sticking with Labour


thedailyexpress--2020-07-06--Britain is braced for SECOND Coronavirus outbreak: Next wave imminent – poll

Exclusive polling reveals that more than seven out of 10 of us ( 72 percent ) expect the country to be hit with a second wave of the deadly virus .
Nearly six out of 10 ( 58 percent ) say people who broke the rules or were not cautious will be to blame if this disaster happens .
Just 31 percent would pin the blame on the Government for easing lockdown restrictions too quickly .
The research by Redfield & Wilton Strategies comes amid concern that protesters and revellers who attend large public gatherings may be fuelling the spread @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 73 percent ) want police to be given more powers to prevent mass gatherings until the coronavirus situation in the UK is completely under control , with only one in 10 people disagreeing .
The findings arrive as concern mounts that illegal “ raves ” across the country are a threat to public health – and anger that police who attempt to break up these parties have come under attack .
More than eight out of 10 ( 81 percent ) support tough sentences for people who attack police officers , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officers were injured when they tried to shut down a rave in White City , London , on Friday night , with yobs pelting the police with bricks .
This came on the heels of violence in Brixton last month which left 22 officers injured .
Ashfield Conservative MP Lee Anderson , who this weekend is taking part in a clean-up exercise after a rave at Skegby Brook in his constituency , called for tough action to stop the illegal parties .
He condemned “ mindless yobs and morons who seem hellbent on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our police , disrespecting our health service and disrespecting the people who live in the community ” .
Mr Anderson added : “ Unless any of these people have been living on the moon for the last three months they know that hundreds of thousands of people on this planet have died from this awful disease.
” The Redfield and Wilton research suggests public health chiefs may face a further challenge in the months ahead if a vaccine against coronavirus is perfected .
Mass vaccination could allow the country to return to true @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ anti-vaxxers ” have stirred fears about the side-effects of vaccines .
The polling shows that 29 percent of people would not have a vaccine or are uncertain .
However , 71 percent of respondents said they would have a vaccine if one becomes available at little to no financial cost within the next year .
The pollsters also respondents about racism in the UK .
More than half ( 53 percent ) said it remains a significant problem , with fewer than one in five ( 19 percent ) disagreeing .
There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who “ took the knee ” during recent Black Lives Matter protests .
Nearly half ( 46 percent ) of people said the officers were right to do so , with only 26 percent disagreeing .
However , 40 percent said that the UK is not a racist country , with just one in three disagreeing .
Thirty-nine percent thought systemic racism was more a perception than a reality and 32 percent disagreed .
There is little support for anyone who attacks war memorials or statues .
Seven out of 10 said such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crimes .
Only one in 10 disagreed .

Boris Johnson: Huge amount of work devoted to second wave
Exclusive polling reveals that more than seven out of 10 of us (72 percent) expect the country to be hit with a second wave of the deadly virus. Nearly six out of 10 (58 percent) say people who broke the rules or were not cautious will be to blame if this disaster happens.
Just 31 percent would pin the blame on the Government for easing lockdown restrictions too quickly.
The research by Redfield & Wilton Strategies comes amid concern that protesters and revellers who attend large public gatherings may be fuelling the spread of Covid-19.
Nearly three-quarters of people (73 percent) want police to be given more powers to prevent mass gatherings until the coronavirus situation in the UK is completely under control, with only one in 10 people disagreeing.
The findings arrive as concern mounts that illegal “raves” across the country are a threat to public health – and anger that police who attempt to break up these parties have come under attack.
More than eight out of 10 (81 percent) support tough sentences for people who attack police officers, with a mere six percent disagreeing.
Seven officers were injured when they tried to shut down a rave in White City, London, on Friday night, with yobs pelting the police with bricks. This came on the heels of violence in Brixton last month which left 22 officers injured.
Britain is braced for a second wave of coronavirus
Bars on Hilton Street in the Northern Quarter set out tables for customers on the closed road
Ashfield Conservative MP Lee Anderson, who this weekend is taking part in a clean-up exercise after a rave at Skegby Brook in his constituency, called for tough action to stop the illegal parties.
He condemned “mindless yobs and morons who seem hellbent on ignoring all the lockdown rules and disrespecting our police, disrespecting our health service and disrespecting the people who live in the community”.
Mr Anderson added: “Unless any of these people have been living on the moon for the last three months they know that hundreds of thousands of people on this planet have died from this awful disease.”
The Redfield and Wilton research suggests public health chiefs may face a further challenge in the months ahead if a vaccine against coronavirus is perfected. Mass vaccination could allow the country to return to true normality but online conspiracy theorists known as “anti-vaxxers” have stirred fears about the side-effects of vaccines.
The polling shows that 29 percent of people would not have a vaccine or are uncertain.
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Jenny Harries says a second peak ‘is not ruled out’


thedailyexpress--2020-07-05--Scotland hasn’t carried out a SINGLE border isolation check despite Sturgeon's fury at PM

Currently , people arriving in Scotland from abroad have to quarantine for 14 days or risk a £480 fine .
All people arriving have to supply contact details , travel details and the address of where they will self-isolate .
Public Health Scotland officials were expected to carry out spot checks and impose fines on travellers who refuse to self-isolate from June 8th .
But it was revealed today that these checks have n't yet started due to data protection measures .
Currently , anyone failing to provide details or breaching self-isolation could be fined up to £480 under the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ breaching quarantine can be reported to the procurator fiscal for potential prosecution and could face a fine of up to £5,000 , although this would be done `` as a last resort '' .
Health Secretary Jeane Freeman , said of the disruption today : `` We had to have our Public Health Scotland officials security cleared in order to access the Home Office systems .
`` That 's the system you need to access to get passenger data - in order to protect people 's data .
`` That has been resolved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week . ''
However , the SNP was criticised by Scottish Conservative leader Jackson Carlaw .
READ MORE : 'About our future ' MSP 's demands Sturgeon push Scottish Gaelic Speaking on BBC Scotland , the MSP added : “ This is just the latest testing and checking failure by the SNP .
“ We will not be able to exit lockdown safely until the SNP gets its act together on testing .
“ From care homes to NHS workers , the whole testing scheme has been a mess .
“ It ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is an entire team simply not up to the task.
” DO N'T MISS : Nicola Sturgeon BEGS Boris for cash as Scottish economy faces crisis [ REVEAL ] Brexit panic for Sturgeon as SNP terrified of Boris 'plot ' for power [ REVEAL ] Boris on alert as polling guru Curtice says Scot Indy backed [ REVEAL ] But Scottish Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf MSP , added of the measures : `` We are , as a country and across the world , continuing to deal with unprecedented challenges that this pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at protecting people and ensuring that we limit spread when our own infection rates are falling.
” The fines are lower than those introduced in England , where there was fixed penalty notices of £1,000 or prosecution for anyone who breaches their self-isolation .
Mr Yousaf said this was due to the different legal systems in the two countries , which mean that a fine would have to be reported to the procurator fiscal if it were above £500 in Scotland .
The revelation comes after Nicola Sturgeon criticised the UK Government 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bridges on Friday .
The First Minister said she wants to `` maximise alignment '' with the rest of the UK so travellers do not have to quarantine , but added she needs time to study the British Government 's proposals - saying they have regularly changed like `` shifting sands '' .
She also pledged that she would “ not rule ” out quarantining people from the rest of the UK .
A Scottish Government spokesperson said in response : “ Quarantine regulations exist to protect people and limit the introduction of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

Nicola Sturgeon's lockdown 'narrative' questioned by Hancock
Currently, people arriving in Scotland from abroad have to quarantine for 14 days or risk a £480 fine. All people arriving have to supply contact details, travel details and the address of where they will self-isolate.
Trending
Public Health Scotland officials were expected to carry out spot checks and impose fines on travellers who refuse to self-isolate from June 8th. But it was revealed today that these checks haven't yet started due to data protection measures. Currently, anyone failing to provide details or breaching self-isolation could be fined up to £480 under the regulations. People believed to be repeatedly breaching quarantine can be reported to the procurator fiscal for potential prosecution and could face a fine of up to £5,000, although this would be done "as a last resort".
Checks were meant to start last month.
Quarantine measures were introduced on June 8th.
Health Secretary Jeane Freeman, said of the disruption today: "We had to have our Public Health Scotland officials security cleared in order to access the Home Office systems. "That's the system you need to access to get passenger data - in order to protect people's data. "That has been resolved and those follow-up calls will begin this week." However, the SNP was criticised by Scottish Conservative leader Jackson Carlaw. READ MORE: 'About our future' MSP's demands Sturgeon push Scottish Gaelic
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The first passengers arriving from Wuhan in China had to self-isolate for 14 days.
People can be fined £480 for breaching quarantine measures.
But Scottish Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf MSP, added of the measures: "We are, as a country and across the world, continuing to deal with unprecedented challenges that this pandemic brings. "These steps are aimed at protecting people and ensuring that we limit spread when our own infection rates are falling.” The fines are lower than those introduced in England, where there was fixed penalty notices of £1,000 or prosecution for anyone who breaches their self-isolation. Mr Yousaf said this was due to the different legal systems in the two countries, which mean that a fine would have to be reported to the procurator fiscal if it were above £500 in Scotland.
Calls will get underway this week.
The revelation comes after Nicola Sturgeon criticised the UK Government's "shambolic" plans to develop air bridges on Friday. The First Minister said she wants to "maximise alignment" with the rest of the UK so travellers do not have to quarantine, but added she needs time to study the British Government's proposals - saying they have regularly changed like "shifting sands". She also pledged that she would “not rule” out quarantining people from the rest of the UK. A Scottish Government spokesperson said in response: “Quarantine regulations exist to protect people and limit the introduction of new chains of transmission of the virus.
Nicola Sturgeon has slated Transport Secretary Grant Shapps over air bridges.


thedailyexpress--2020-07-05--UK SHOULD buy British to show EU we won't be pushed around as crunch Brexit talks stall

Readers voted in our exclusive poll on whether it is time for UK consumers to buy British as negotiations with the Brussels bloc are yet to make progress .
This website asked : 'Is it time for UK consumers to buy British and show EU we wo n't be pushed around ? '
A huge 98 percent of readers said yes , while just two percent said no .
Commenting on the poll , one reader said : “ I will always buy British ... when I can find it.
” Another wrote : “ Been doing it for years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A third suggested : “ We need another ‘ Buy British ’ and ‘ Backing Britain ’ campaign .
Additionally , goods and products need clearer labelling when they are British made.
” Another commented : “ Given the choice i 'd support British business every time even if it cost slightly more.
” A fifth added : “ Slap a big Union Jack on everything made in the UK and even if it costs a little extra , people will buy British.
” One more said : “ Please stick a big @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's obvious to find British products.
” READ MORE : Brexit bombshell : How the UK is planning to gain global trade deal Our poll comes as the latest round of talks between the UK and the EU on a post-Brexit trade deal broke up early with `` significant differences '' remaining between the two sides Our poll comes as the latest round of talks between the UK and the EU on a post-Brexit trade deal broke up early with `` significant differences '' remaining between the two sides .
The negotiations last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the teams meeting face-to-face for the first time since the coronavirus outbreak - had been due to continue to Friday but they ended on Thursday .
In a statement , Prime Minister Boris Johnson ’ s Europe adviser David Frost said meeting in person had given `` extra depth and flexibility '' to the discussions but he warned there was more to do .
DO N'T MISS MEP admits member states could follow Brexit Britain ’ s lead [ INSIGHT ] Brexit talks breakthrough : Liz Truss reveals prosperous future for UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three countries plotting EXITS [ ANALYSIS ] David Frost said meeting in person had given `` extra depth and flexibility '' to the discussions but he warned there was more to do He said : `` We have completed our discussion of the full range of issues in the negotiation in just over three days .
`` The negotiations have been comprehensive and useful .
But they have also underlined the significant differences that still remain between us on a number of important issues . ''
His EU counterpart Michel Barnier said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ successfully and quickly on a trajectory to reach an agreement .
`` However , after four days of discussions , serious divergences remain . ''

David Frost arrives in Brussels for Brexit negotiations
Readers voted in our exclusive poll on whether it is time for UK consumers to buy British as negotiations with the Brussels bloc are yet to make progress. This website asked: 'Is it time for UK consumers to buy British and show EU we won't be pushed around?'
A huge 98 percent of readers said yes, while just two percent said no. Commenting on the poll, one reader said: “I will always buy British...when I can find it.” Another wrote: “Been doing it for years already. Buying British wherever possible.” A third suggested: “We need another ‘Buy British’ and ‘Backing Britain’ campaign. Additionally, goods and products need clearer labelling when they are British made.”
UK consumers should buy British to send a warning to the EU, according to an Express.co.uk poll
A huge 98 percent of readers said yes, while just two percent said no
Another commented: “Given the choice i'd support British business every time even if it cost slightly more.” A fifth added: “Slap a big Union Jack on everything made in the UK and even if it costs a little extra, people will buy British.” One more said: “Please stick a big Union Flag on British goods so it's obvious to find British products.” READ MORE: Brexit bombshell: How the UK is planning to gain global trade deal
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Our poll comes as the latest round of talks between the UK and the EU on a post-Brexit trade deal broke up early with "significant differences" remaining between the two sides
Our poll comes as the latest round of talks between the UK and the EU on a post-Brexit trade deal broke up early with "significant differences" remaining between the two sides. The negotiations last week – which took place in Brussels with the teams meeting face-to-face for the first time since the coronavirus outbreak - had been due to continue to Friday but they ended on Thursday. In a statement, Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s Europe adviser David Frost said meeting in person had given "extra depth and flexibility" to the discussions but he warned there was more to do. DON'T MISS
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David Frost said meeting in person had given "extra depth and flexibility" to the discussions but he warned there was more to do
He said: "We have completed our discussion of the full range of issues in the negotiation in just over three days. "The negotiations have been comprehensive and useful. But they have also underlined the significant differences that still remain between us on a number of important issues." His EU counterpart Michel Barnier said: "Our goal was to get negotiations successfully and quickly on a trajectory to reach an agreement. "However, after four days of discussions, serious divergences remain."
The EU's chief negotiator Michel Barnier said "serious divergences remain" after the latest round of talks
He said the EU had "listened carefully" to UK demands but insisted there could be no deal without agreements on fisheries and the level-playing field, which forces the UK to follow EU standards in return for continued access to the single market. Mr Barnier said: "We will continue to insist on parallel progress on all areas. "The EU expects, in turn, its positions to be better understood and respected in order to reach an agreement. We need an equivalent engagement by the United Kingdom." The talks will resume next week in London.
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thedailyexpress--2020-07-05--'About our future' MSP's demand Sturgeon push 'critical' Scottish Gaelic language

Researchers from the University of the Highlands and Islands Language Sciences Institute ( UHI ) noted that just 11,000 people reported an ability to speak the language .
The authors said Gaelic is `` in crisis , and that within remaining vernacular communities of Scotland , the social use and transmission of Gaelic is at the point of collapse '' .
They warned that the number of native Gaelic speakers fell from 80 percent in 1981 to 52 percent in 2011 , a fall of 13 percent decline per decade .
UHI researchers are now warning the language could be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ takes radical action to save it .
The findings come in a new book entitled The Gaelic Crisis In The Vernacular Community : A Comprehensive Sociolinguistic Survey Of Scottish Gaelic .
MSP Kate Forbes , the Scottish Finance Secretary , who became the first in the current Scottish Parliament chamber to deliver a speech in Gaelic during a plenary debate said the news was “ sobering ” .
The Skye and Lochaber MSP said : `` This is n't just about preserving our heritage , understanding our culture or sentimentalising our ancestors ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are .
“ This is about our future , and ensuring that this language is alive and in use for many years to come .
`` I can not overstate how critical the next few years will be .
This research is sobering and stark and I think all of us should actively work to ensure these predictions do n't come true .
`` Every organisation in the private and public sectors , particularly in the Highlands and islands , faces a choice of either facilitating or reversing the decline of Gaelic .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for cash as Scottish economy faces crisis '' If it is still going to be a vernacular language , rather than just the preserve of academia , then speakers should be allowed to take it into schools , the workplace , the local store and the place of worship.
” Professor Conchur O Giollagain , professor of Gaelic research at the University of the Highlands and Islands in Inverness , said : `` It is important that we are clear about the immense scale of the challenges involved in reversing the ongoing decline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ areas .
`` Our statistical evidence indicates that the Gaelic vernacular community is comprised of around 11,000 people , of which a majority are in the 50 years and over age category .
`` The decline of the Gaelic community , as especially shown in the marginal practice of Gaelic in families and among teenagers , indicates that without a community-wide revival of Gaelic , the trend towards the loss of vernacular Gaelic will continue .
DO N'T MISS : Brexit panic for Sturgeon as SNP terrified of Boris 'plot ' for power @ @ @ @ @ @ @ polling guru Curtice says Scot Indy backed [ REVEAL ] Sturgeon faces inquiry : Demands for investigation over SNP school plan [ REVEAL ] '' We found a mismatch between current Gaelic policies and the level of crisis among the speaker group which must be addressed to face the urgency of the language loss in the islands.
” Highlands and Islands MSP Donald Cameron admitted the issue had been overly politicised in recent years but has offered to try to find a consensus to help Scottish Gaelic grow again .
He added : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ language has suffered and indeed declined .
`` We 're now reaching out to the SNP Government to see if we can all find a consensus on this vital matter . ''
Mairi MacInnes , chairwoman of Bòrd na Gàidhlig , the public body of the Scottish Government with responsibility for Gaelic , said the findings will “ come as no surprise ” to anyone who lives in the Scottish islands or anywhere else .
She added the board was “ listening and willing to discuss with island communities what else they want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last census in 2011 , 57,375 people could speak Scots Gaelic , while 61 percent of people in the Outer Hebrides had some understanding of the language and 52 percent were able to speak it .
However , language learning app Duolingo reported on Thursday that it has 393,000 active Gaelic learners from 418,000 course starts since its St Andrew 's Day launch last year .
A Scottish government spokesman said in response : “ The Gaelic language is a vital part of Scotland 's cultural identity and Ministers support efforts to improve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the language .
“ We are interested in the proposals in the book and look forward to discussing the value of current initiatives and the new structures suggested to strengthen Gaelic in the islands.
” He added that Gaelic was in a “ fragile condition ” but stressed there was a range of policies and interventions in place to promote the learning , speaking and use of Gaelic .

Outlander: Learn how to pronounce Gaelic words
Researchers from the University of the Highlands and Islands Language Sciences Institute (UHI) noted that just 11,000 people reported an ability to speak the language. The authors said Gaelic is "in crisis, and that within remaining vernacular communities of Scotland, the social use and transmission of Gaelic is at the point of collapse".
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They warned that the number of native Gaelic speakers fell from 80 percent in 1981 to 52 percent in 2011, a fall of 13 percent decline per decade. UHI researchers are now warning the language could be dead by 2030 unless the Scottish government takes radical action to save it. The findings come in a new book entitled The Gaelic Crisis In The Vernacular Community: A Comprehensive Sociolinguistic Survey Of Scottish Gaelic. MSP Kate Forbes, the Scottish Finance Secretary, who became the first in the current Scottish Parliament chamber to deliver a speech in Gaelic during a plenary debate said the news was “sobering”.
Scottish Gaelic could be no longer exist at the end of this decade.
Stornoway is seen as one of the main hubs for Gaelic speakers.
The Skye and Lochaber MSP said: "This isn't just about preserving our heritage, understanding our culture or sentimentalising our ancestors' memory - important as all of those are. “This is about our future, and ensuring that this language is alive and in use for many years to come. "I cannot overstate how critical the next few years will be. This research is sobering and stark and I think all of us should actively work to ensure these predictions don't come true. "Every organisation in the private and public sectors, particularly in the Highlands and islands, faces a choice of either facilitating or reversing the decline of Gaelic. READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon BEGS Boris for cash as Scottish economy faces crisis
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Scottish Gaelic is mainly spoken in the Scottish Highlands.
"If it is still going to be a vernacular language, rather than just the preserve of academia, then speakers should be allowed to take it into schools, the workplace, the local store and the place of worship.” Professor Conchur O Giollagain, professor of Gaelic research at the University of the Highlands and Islands in Inverness, said: "It is important that we are clear about the immense scale of the challenges involved in reversing the ongoing decline in the use of Gaelic in these areas. "Our statistical evidence indicates that the Gaelic vernacular community is comprised of around 11,000 people, of which a majority are in the 50 years and over age category. "The decline of the Gaelic community, as especially shown in the marginal practice of Gaelic in families and among teenagers, indicates that without a community-wide revival of Gaelic, the trend towards the loss of vernacular Gaelic will continue. DON'T MISS:
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Gaelic is found on a large number of Scottish road signs.
"We found a mismatch between current Gaelic policies and the level of crisis among the speaker group which must be addressed to face the urgency of the language loss in the islands.” Highlands and Islands MSP Donald Cameron admitted the issue had been overly politicised in recent years but has offered to try to find a consensus to help Scottish Gaelic grow again. He added: "This report reveals how much the language has suffered and indeed declined. "We're now reaching out to the SNP Government to see if we can all find a consensus on this vital matter."
Nicola Sturgeon is being urged to take note of the study.
Mairi MacInnes, chairwoman of Bòrd na Gàidhlig, the public body of the Scottish Government with responsibility for Gaelic, said the findings will “come as no surprise” to anyone who lives in the Scottish islands or anywhere else. She added the board was “listening and willing to discuss with island communities what else they want to happen”. According to the last census in 2011, 57,375 people could speak Scots Gaelic, while 61 percent of people in the Outer Hebrides had some understanding of the language and 52 percent were able to speak it. However, language learning app Duolingo reported on Thursday that it has 393,000 active Gaelic learners from 418,000 course starts since its St Andrew's Day launch last year.
Scottish Gaelic was taught widely in the 20th century.


thedailyexpress--2020-07-05--Coronavirus action plan: Rishi Sunak launches Boris Johnson's UK economy boost

With pubs , restaurants , hairdressers and churches all opening up this weekend thousands of people across the UK took the chance to have a pint or enjoy a meal out with friends and family .
But with the country reopening for business , Mr Sunak is preparing to make a major statement on how to create thousands of jobs .
He hopes to see off the large scale unemployment threat created by the coronavirus slump that has accounted for a 20 percent fall in GDP .
The Sunday Express has learnt that the Chancellor will announce on Wednesday that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coaches from 13,500 to 27,000 , one of the largest ever increases in front line job centre staff .
He is also set to put in £32 million for the National Careers Service to help young people get jobs with what Treasury sources are suggesting will be a major focus on the young .
It means around 250,000 more young people will benefit from tailored jobs advice through a £32 million investment .
There was also strong speculation from senior Conservative sources last night that Mr Sunak is considering a holiday on employers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remove a barrier to employ people .
There is also speculation that he may look at changing the furlough system to help pay the wages of people in some struggling sectors who are working but not sitting at home .
And it is understood that while Wednesday ’ s announcement is not a budget and will not focus on tax he is also looking at slashing stamp duty to rescue the housing market and reforming business rates which are currently suspended .
This all comes amid growing fears that coronavirus could reverse years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ historically low levels and leave hundreds of thousands without a job .
Ahead of his big speech on Wednesday , the Chancellor visited the Bell & Crown pub in Chiswick yesterday to mark the reopening of much of the economy on what is being dubbed “ Super Saturday ” in England for lockdown being eased .
Mr Sunak said : “ The hospitality sector is a vital part of our economy and crucial to people ’ s livelihoods - Britain ’ s pubs and bars alone employ almost half a million people - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good news that so many people are able to return to work this weekend , helping us all to enjoy summer safely.
” The pub was one of 27 pubs that Fuller ’ s are opening on Saturday , with the aim of having over 80 percent of their pubs and hotels open safely by the end of July .
More than 600 of their staff returned from furlough this weekend.ƒmcw The hospitality sector has been hit hard by the outbreak , with most of the county ’ s pubs and restaurants having @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left staff without jobs , resulting in 1.4 million workers in the hospitality sector being furloughed , including more than 90 percent of staff in the pub sector .
The Prime Minister Boris Johnson also welcomed the reopening of many sectors on his Twitter account but warned people to remain alert to the disease .
He said : “ As pubs and restaurants open across England today , it ’ s absolutely vital that everyone follows the rules on social distancing .
We ’ ve worked so hard and together saved so many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this weekend , keep apart from others and wash your hands several times a day.
” With many churches reopening today , he added : “ Places of worship are at the heart of so many communities , which is why I am delighted that thousands of churches , mosques , synagogues , gurdwaras and temples are preparing to welcome back their congregations safely for communal prayer and religious practice.
” Advice for the Chancellor has also come from one of his predecessors Laord Lamont who was in 11 Downing Street for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ former cabinet minister Esther McVey for her latest Blue Collar Conservative conversation podcast , he said : “ I have great admiration for Rishi Sunak .
I think he is acting boldly and quickly .
Therefore deserves all the plaudits and praise he is getting .
“ The difficult part is still to come .
I ’ m afraid we are going to see job losses , we are going to see unemployment rise .
He added : “ He needs to cut the cost of employing people .
I would have a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a period of time .
If you can cut the cost of employing people that will be the best way to retain jobs.
” Meanwhile , leading Brexiteer Tory MP John Redwood , who headed up Margaret Thatcher ’ s policy unit , has urged Mr Sunak to borrow his way out of the crisis in the short term , In conversation with Ms McVey , he said : “ As long as you can persuade people , it ’ s a one off it ’ s reasonable to borrow large sums of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hit of the crisis .
“ Everything has to be [ also ] done to take obstacles away to spending , investing and redeploying jobs .
“ It ’ s affordable because it coincides with an era of very low interest rates so the cost of borrowing is very low.
” Ms McVey , who founded the powerful Blue Collar caucus of more than 150 Tory MPs , is also pushing for business rates to be scrapped and replaced with a new sales tax which would pull in revenue from companies like Amazon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s high time to get rid of business rates for the high street , and bring in a fair sales tax that treats online retailers the same as high street ones.
” Her call comes as the resolution foundation has proposed a £30 billion voucher scheme to help save the High Street .
Meanwhile , writing for the Sunday Express , newly elected West Bromwich West MP has welcomed the emphasis on creating new apprenticeships but also urged the government to turn failing universities into vocational colleges.
” He said : “ We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ roots and makes sure that local people can gain the qualifications .
“ These colleges should be local and build a connection between the experience and knowledge of retired people at the service of training the young .
We could train local people in the new clean technologies so we can build , insulate and heat their homes using renewable energy and utilising the latest technology and techniques.
” With lockdown easing rail services across Britain will be ramped up from today as demand for public transport is expected to grow .
Industry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) said services will increase from around 70 percent of pre-lockdown levels to 85 percent .
RDG director of nations and regions Robert Nisbet said : `` While we are still asking people only to take the train if necessary , as the lockdown is eased further we are stepping up timetables and taking other steps so people can travel with confidence .
`` In return , we want people to help us by avoiding the busiest times , wearing a face covering and checking the latest train information online before setting off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pubs in England had an instant impact with an increase in footfall from last week of 24.9 percent in the High Streets and 10.6 percent in shopping centres with an overall rise of 15.2 percent .
In Wales , where Labour 's Mark Drakeford is maintaining most of the lockdown , there was an overall fall in 3.6 percent in footfall .
But in Scotland the ending of a five mile travel rule for leisure and recreation activities along with the first weekend of retailers opening meant there was an overall rise of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ executive of the British Retail Consortium , said : `` The reopening of restaurants , bars and other services will help encourage people back to our high streets .
`` This is vital to reviving our town centres and we hope the public plays their part in supporting our local high streets .
`` Every purchase we make is a shop helped and a job supported.
” Andrew Goodacre , chief executive of the British Independent Retailers Consortium , said : `` This ( footfall rise ) is good news but we have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still a long way to go . ''

UK economy is a 'gathering storm' amid pandemic says expert
With pubs, restaurants, hairdressers and churches all opening up this weekend thousands of people across the UK took the chance to have a pint or enjoy a meal out with friends and family. But with the country reopening for business, Mr Sunak is preparing to make a major statement on how to create thousands of jobs.
He hopes to see off the large scale unemployment threat created by the coronavirus slump that has accounted for a 20 percent fall in GDP. The Sunday Express has learnt that the Chancellor will announce on Wednesday that he will double the number of work coaches from 13,500 to 27,000, one of the largest ever increases in front line job centre staff. He is also set to put in £32 million for the National Careers Service to help young people get jobs with what Treasury sources are suggesting will be a major focus on the young. It means around 250,000 more young people will benefit from tailored jobs advice through a £32 million investment. There was also strong speculation from senior Conservative sources last night that Mr Sunak is considering a holiday on employers having to pay national insurance contributions to remove a barrier to employ people. There is also speculation that he may look at changing the furlough system to help pay the wages of people in some struggling sectors who are working but not sitting at home.
And it is understood that while Wednesday’s announcement is not a budget and will not focus on tax he is also looking at slashing stamp duty to rescue the housing market and reforming business rates which are currently suspended. This all comes amid growing fears that coronavirus could reverse years of hard work on reducing unemployment to historically low levels and leave hundreds of thousands without a job. Ahead of his big speech on Wednesday, the Chancellor visited the Bell & Crown pub in Chiswick yesterday to mark the reopening of much of the economy on what is being dubbed “Super Saturday” in England for lockdown being eased. Mr Sunak said: “The hospitality sector is a vital part of our economy and crucial to people’s livelihoods - Britain’s pubs and bars alone employ almost half a million people - which is why it’s such good news that so many people are able to return to work this weekend, helping us all to enjoy summer safely.” The pub was one of 27 pubs that Fuller’s are opening on Saturday, with the aim of having over 80 percent of their pubs and hotels open safely by the end of July. More than 600 of their staff returned from furlough this weekend.ƒmcw The hospitality sector has been hit hard by the outbreak, with most of the county’s pubs and restaurants having to stop trading entirely.
Rishi Sunak launches Boris' UK economy boost
The hospitality sector has been hit hard by the outbreak, with most of the county’s pubs and restaurants having to stop trading entirely
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This has left staff without jobs, resulting in 1.4 million workers in the hospitality sector being furloughed, including more than 90 percent of staff in the pub sector. The Prime Minister Boris Johnson also welcomed the reopening of many sectors on his Twitter account but warned people to remain alert to the disease. He said: “As pubs and restaurants open across England today, it’s absolutely vital that everyone follows the rules on social distancing. We’ve worked so hard and together saved so many lives. “Stick to the rules this weekend, keep apart from others and wash your hands several times a day.” With many churches reopening today, he added: “Places of worship are at the heart of so many communities, which is why I am delighted that thousands of churches, mosques, synagogues, gurdwaras and temples are preparing to welcome back their congregations safely for communal prayer and religious practice.” Advice for the Chancellor has also come from one of his predecessors Laord Lamont who was in 11 Downing Street for the 1992 Black Wednesday crisis. Speaking to former cabinet minister Esther McVey for her latest Blue Collar Conservative conversation podcast, he said: “I have great admiration for Rishi Sunak. I think he is acting boldly and quickly. Therefore deserves all the plaudits and praise he is getting. “The difficult part is still to come. I’m afraid we are going to see job losses, we are going to see unemployment rise.
The Prime Minister Boris Johnson also welcomed the reopening of many sectors on his Twitter account
He added: “He needs to cut the cost of employing people. I would have a holiday for employers’ national insurance for a period of time. If you can cut the cost of employing people that will be the best way to retain jobs.” Meanwhile, leading Brexiteer Tory MP John Redwood, who headed up Margaret Thatcher’s policy unit, has urged Mr Sunak to borrow his way out of the crisis in the short term, In conversation with Ms McVey, he said: “As long as you can persuade people, it’s a one off it’s reasonable to borrow large sums of money to see yourself through the immediate hit of the crisis. “Everything has to be [also] done to take obstacles away to spending, investing and redeploying jobs. “It’s affordable because it coincides with an era of very low interest rates so the cost of borrowing is very low.” Ms McVey, who founded the powerful Blue Collar caucus of more than 150 Tory MPs, is also pushing for business rates to be scrapped and replaced with a new sales tax which would pull in revenue from companies like Amazon. She said: “It’s high time to get rid of business rates for the high street, and bring in a fair sales tax that treats online retailers the same as high street ones.” Her call comes as the resolution foundation has proposed a £30 billion voucher scheme to help save the High Street.
The Sunday Express has learnt that the Chancellor will announce on Wednesday that he will double the number of work coaches
Meanwhile, writing for the Sunday Express, newly elected West Bromwich West MP has welcomed the emphasis on creating new apprenticeships but also urged the government to turn failing universities into vocational colleges.” He said: “We should take them back to their vocational roots and makes sure that local people can gain the qualifications. “These colleges should be local and build a connection between the experience and knowledge of retired people at the service of training the young. We could train local people in the new clean technologies so we can build, insulate and heat their homes using renewable energy and utilising the latest technology and techniques.” With lockdown easing rail services across Britain will be ramped up from today as demand for public transport is expected to grow. Industry body the Rail Delivery Group (RDG) said services will increase from around 70 percent of pre-lockdown levels to 85 percent. RDG director of nations and regions Robert Nisbet said: "While we are still asking people only to take the train if necessary, as the lockdown is eased further we are stepping up timetables and taking other steps so people can travel with confidence. "In return, we want people to help us by avoiding the busiest times, wearing a face covering and checking the latest train information online before setting off."


thedailyexpress--2020-07-06--Labour MP shamed over party stance during pandemic: 'Are you just bet hedgers?'

Labour Party Lucy Powell was questioned over the party 's intermittent support of the Government through the coronavirus pandemic .
Times Radio host Stig Abell suggested the Opposition had counterbalanced its position through the pandemic by intermittently supporting and criticising Boris Johnson 's decisions .
Mr Abell said : `` I ’ m interested in the politics of opposition during a crisis like this .
`` Your party said it ’ s in favour of an earlier lockdown in hindsight but it was supportive of the Government ’ s reluctance to impose a lockdown in the first place .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and , when that was published , its said , ‘ well , you ’ re going too fast.
’ `` If you are in Opposition during a crisis , are you just bet hedgers ?
`` Do you have to hedge on both sides because your job is to pick up whatever the Government does ? ''
JUST IN : Falkland Islands coronavirus case offers shock clue to where pandemic originated Ms Powell dismissed the line of questioning as she insisted the Labour Party had sought to support the Government through the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ criticism to help improve on the response .
She said : `` I ’ m not sure that ’ s a very fair summary of our position .
`` I think on lockdown everyone would accept , Government and others , we were further along the so-called curve and the peak than was understood at the time and therefore we should have taken action sooner .
`` That ’ s in part because we were further behind on things like testing than we should ’ ve been so we didn ’ t have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on . ''
READ MORE : Stamp duty 'holiday ' to revive house prices in Rishi Sunak plan to save buyers thousands She continued : `` That continued through the first few weeks of the peak as well .
`` On the easing of lockdown , we were supportive of those measures too because there is a balance here to be struck to ensuring that businesses can begin to reopen and we find this balance of the new normal while , at the same time , maintaining social distancing as far as possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decisions for any government to take and we tried to be constructive and supportive where we can be but we ’ re clear we ’ ve been too slow on some of the fundamental issues like testing and track and trace .
`` Now we are worried the Government is being too quick in pulling the rug on a lot of the economic support they put in place . ''
Britain is braced for SECOND Coronavirus outbreak : Next wave imminent [ POLL ] Blackford vows Scotland WILL take ‘ appropriate measure ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ holidays : Catalonia region in lockdown again [ INSIGHT ]

Piers Morgan quizzes Lucy Powell ‘who is going to pay?’
Labour Party Lucy Powell was questioned over the party's intermittent support of the Government through the coronavirus pandemic. Times Radio host Stig Abell suggested the Opposition had counterbalanced its position through the pandemic by intermittently supporting and criticising Boris Johnson's decisions. Mr Abell said: "I’m interested in the politics of opposition during a crisis like this.
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"Your party said it’s in favour of an earlier lockdown in hindsight but it was supportive of the Government’s reluctance to impose a lockdown in the first place. "It demanded a pathway out of lockdown and, when that was published, its said, ‘well, you’re going too fast.’ "If you are in Opposition during a crisis, are you just bet hedgers? "Do you have to hedge on both sides because your job is to pick up whatever the Government does?" JUST IN: Falkland Islands coronavirus case offers shock clue to where pandemic originated
Labour's Lucy Powell was asked if hers is a party of "bet hedgers"
Lucy Powell insisted Labour wanted to be "constructive" during the pandemic
Ms Powell dismissed the line of questioning as she insisted the Labour Party had sought to support the Government through the outbreak while still offering "constructive" criticism to help improve on the response. She said: "I’m not sure that’s a very fair summary of our position. "I think on lockdown everyone would accept, Government and others, we were further along the so-called curve and the peak than was understood at the time and therefore we should have taken action sooner. "That’s in part because we were further behind on things like testing than we should’ve been so we didn’t have a full sense of the picture earlier on." READ MORE: Stamp duty 'holiday' to revive house prices in Rishi Sunak plan to save buyers thousands
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Furlough: Dodds says she 'can't give' spending projection
Coronavirus cases have spiked yet again in some areas of the UK
She continued: "That continued through the first few weeks of the peak as well. "On the easing of lockdown, we were supportive of those measures too because there is a balance here to be struck to ensuring that businesses can begin to reopen and we find this balance of the new normal while, at the same time, maintaining social distancing as far as possible. "We understand these are difficult decisions for any government to take and we tried to be constructive and supportive where we can be but we’re clear we’ve been too slow on some of the fundamental issues like testing and track and trace. "Now we are worried the Government is being too quick in pulling the rug on a lot of the economic support they put in place." DON'T MISS Britain is braced for SECOND Coronavirus outbreak: Next wave imminent [POLL]
Blackford vows Scotland WILL take ‘appropriate measure’ in border row [VIDEO]
Spain holidays: Catalonia region in lockdown again [INSIGHT]
The furlough scheme was devised to avoid mass unemployment because of the lockdown


thedailyexpress--2020-07-06--Brexit LIVE: British fisheries group outlines FIVE KEY POINTS Boris must make in EU talks

The group said : `` UK negotiators must protect our distant-waters fishing fleet by guaranteeing our ability to continue operating in our traditional fishing grounds in the northern North Atlantic .
`` Most of the fish we eat in the U.K. comes from the North Atlantic – not from UK waters .
`` The UK ’ s distant waters fleet , led by UK Fisheries ’ ice-class trawler Kirkella , supplies one in 12 portions of the fish and chips sold in our chippies , caught in the North Atlantic and landed in Hull .
`` The UK runs a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Faroes and Greenland .
`` As a newly-independent coastal state , the UK has the ability and the duty to leverage access to its market with these nations for maintained or improved access to their waters . ''
Following the latest breakdown of talks in Brussels last week , fishing expert and CEO of the National Federation of Fishermen 's Organisation Barrie Deas warned French fisherman could block UK ports if its fisherman have reduced access to UK waters .
He told Express.co.uk : “ French fishermen have a long track @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're upset about something .
`` They 've done it for much lesser reasons than the UK becoming an independent coastal state , renegotiation of quotas , even if there is access for French fishermen .
`` I think it would be naive to expect they will be happy about this or do nothing about it .
There 's a long history of those kinds of blockades . ''
12.38pm update : City gripped by no deal Brexit fears and bracing for financial 'regulatory warfare ' The City has been gripped by fears @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possibility of chaos with access to EU markets after the latest collapse of talks with the UK on a trade deal .
Last week , the EU 's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier accused the UK of trying “ to keep as many single market benefits as it can ” following Brexit .
He warned there is `` no way member states or the European Parliament would accept ” the UK ’ s bid for smooth access to European markets for London ’ s financial district .
Finance bosses are now bracing for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the clock ticks down to the end of the transition period in just under six-months ' time .
A failure to reach an agreement could see firms in the City lose access of European markets overnight and find themselves unable to serve their clients throughout the continent from London .
The first technical-level meetings get underway tomorrow , Express.co.uk Brussels correspondent Joe Barnes has tweeted , as post-Brexit trade negotiations move to London .
An EU Commission spokesman said : `` This is not a round of negotiations , per se , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 20 . ''
The country 's Foreign Minister has warned of the `` damaging '' consequences for the UK and Ireland if Britain is unable to agree to terms on a post-Brexit trade deal with the EU .
Mr Coveney told Sky News ' Adam Boulton that tariffs and quotas will have to be imposed as a result of a no trade deal Brexit .
He added that trade between the UK and the European Union will occur on World Trade Organisation ( WTO ) terms if a deal is not agreed upon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ update : Do you even WANT a deal ?
Irish EU trade chief savages UK over Brexit talks The EU 's trade commissioner Phil Hogan has lashed out at the UK 's lack of `` ambition '' during post-Brexit trade talks with the European Union , warning that needs to quickly change if an agreement is going to be signed before the end of the transition period .
Speaking on RTÉ 's Brendan O'Connor programme with Damien O'Reilly , Ireland 's Mr Hogan claimed for the last few months , the EU has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK on several issues , but without much success .
He still believes the two sides will strike a post-Brexit trade deal , but only if the UK really wants one and shows ambition to do so .
But the EU trade commissioner warned there is still frustration from Brussels the good faith being shown is not being replicated by British negotiators .
Sterling has slumped against the euro as traders keep a close eye on this month 's Brexit negotiations on a future trade deal between the UK and EU .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ morning against the single currency at 90.43 pence and flat against the US dollar at $ 1.2485 .
Sterling remains six percent weaker so far this year , but has recovered from lows in March , when it sank to $ 1.14 - its lowest since 1985 .
Traders are expecting more clarity by the end of this month on whether Britain will agree a trade deal with the bloc , which it left on January 31 .
9.54am update : Banks warn Britain and EU over financial chaos The UK and EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU financial market access due the impacts the coronavirus pandemic will create , according to a bank lobby group .
The Association for Financial Markets in Europe ( AFME ) said that the Covid-19 pandemic will make it harder to cope with any potential disruption in the case that there is no agreement made between the EU and UK .
Britain is still in the transition period until the end of the year which means the country has full access to the trade bloc .
Any future direct EU access after the transition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whether Brussels feels the UK regulation is “ equivalent ” to the standards set in the trade bloc .
The EU will not be able to use financial services in London without some agreed access .
In a statement , AFME said : “ Covid-19 has the potential to disrupt Brexit planning including impacting client readiness , as well as potentially affecting the ability of firms to relocate staff to other jurisdictions.
” The group said that the negotiations need to ensure that EU investors can continue using clearing houses in London .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ powers to impose sanctions over rights The UK will announce the first foreign nationals to face asset freezes and visa bans for alleged human rights abuses under a new post-Brexit sanctions scheme that follows the 2012 US Magnitsky Act .
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has continued to press for a tough sanctions regime , and the first names will today be set out in parliament .
This will be followed by further sanctions over the coming months under a `` UK-only regime '' after Britain left the EU in January .
Mr Raab @ @ @ @ @ @ @ today , the UK will have new powers to stop those involved in serious human rights abuses and violations from entering the UK , channelling money through our banks and profiting from our economy .
`` This is a clear example of how the UK will help to lead the world in standing up for human rights .
We will not let those who seek to inflict pain and destroy the lives of innocent victims benefit from what the UK has to offer . ''
The country 's EU trade commissioner Phil Hogan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' from the EU to reach a post-Brexit trade deal with the UK , but does not see that same ambition from the British side .
Speaking on RTÉ 's Brendan O'Connor programme with Damien O'Reilly , he reiterated his belief that a deal between the two sides can be agreed if the UK wants one .
But he warned there is frustration on the EU side that the good faith on both sides is not happening .
Mr Hogan said : `` I still believe there will be a deal .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Union side is real .
`` I do n't see the same ambition at the moment on the UK 's side so , the ball is in the UK 's court , if they want a deal , there is a deal to be done . ''
8.15am update : 'They 're OUR waters ' Brexiteer Richard Tice demands EU back down on fishing in trade talks Brexit Party Chairman Richard Tice has demanded the UK gets its way in the new post-Brexit fishing deal due to one key point .
During an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the fact the fish reside in the UK 's waters mean the EU can not expect to get the same treatment as when Britain was a member of the European Union .
The Brexit Party chairman reflected on the importance of the fishing industry to those who live and work on the coasts in addition to Brexiteers across the country .
He said : `` To put in context , for every one job at sea there are seven of eight jobs onshore .
`` These jobs happen and would be created in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who need the greatest regeneration around our coast .
`` It is a huge opportunity and we must not be tempted to give it away to secure a trade deal .
`` These are separate issues , these are our waters and we must take back full control and maximise this Brexit opportunity . ''
The UK and EU will begin the latest round of talks on a post-Brexit trade deal in London this week after last week 's negotiations in Brussels were cut short by a deal , triggering fears of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chief Brexit negotiator David Frost warned the trade talks have continued to highlight `` significant differences '' that remain on several elements of any future agreement .
Brussels counterpart Michel Barnier insisted the EU had engaged `` constructively '' during post-Brexit trade talks in Brussels , and warned officials need to see an `` equivalent engagement from the UK side '' .
Angela Merkel , who 's country Germany took over the rotating presidency of the European Council on July 1 , also warned EU member states to `` prepare for the case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

Brexit: EU told Barnier not to 'compromise' on fishing says expert
Britain is on course to leave the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) next year and become an independent coastal state – free to set its own tariffs and quotas on stocks. But the issue of access to each other's waters after Brexit has proven to be a major hurdle in the current trade deal talks - with both sides refusing to move from their positions. Now UK Fisheries has outlined five key points UK negotiators must follow in order to protect the country's fishing industry. THIS BLOG IS NOW CLOSED. Click HERE for your latest Brexit updates
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The group said: "UK negotiators must protect our distant-waters fishing fleet by guaranteeing our ability to continue operating in our traditional fishing grounds in the northern North Atlantic. "Most of the fish we eat in the U.K. comes from the North Atlantic – not from UK waters. "The UK’s distant waters fleet, led by UK Fisheries’ ice-class trawler Kirkella, supplies one in 12 portions of the fish and chips sold in our chippies, caught in the North Atlantic and landed in Hull. "The UK runs a huge trade deficit with Iceland, Norway, the Faroes and Greenland. "As a newly-independent coastal state, the UK has the ability and the duty to leverage access to its market with these nations for maintained or improved access to their waters."
Brexit latest: Boris Johnson is under pressure from fishing groups not to compromise on its rights
Following the latest breakdown of talks in Brussels last week, fishing expert and CEO of the National Federation of Fishermen's Organisation Barrie Deas warned French fisherman could block UK ports if its fisherman have reduced access to UK waters. He told Express.co.uk: “French fishermen have a long track record of blockading Channel ports when they're upset about something. "They've done it for much lesser reasons than the UK becoming an independent coastal state, renegotiation of quotas, even if there is access for French fishermen. "I think it would be naive to expect they will be happy about this or do nothing about it. There's a long history of those kinds of blockades." FOLLOW EXPRESS.CO.UK FOR LIVE UPDATES:
Brexit latest: David Frost warned the trade talks have continued to highlight 'significant differences' between the two sides
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7.40am update: THIS BLOG IS NOW CLOSED. Click HERE for your latest Brexit updates 1.05am update: SNP may gain the support of Unionists after pandemic Many unionists may hand the SNP its biggest mandate for independence after seeing the benefits of the devolution during the pandemic. Sir John Curtice, professor of politics at the University of Strathclyde, said that the Covid-19 pandemic had demonstrated the power the Scottish government has to chart a different course from Westminster. Professor Curtice said this could hand the SNP a bigger share of the vote, The Times reports. 12.15am update: Michel Barnier has said the negotiations in coming weeks will be “decisive” This comes as the EU and UK look to secure a free-trade deal. He urged Boris Johnson to drop his “unacceptable approach” to the talks when they meet to discuss the negotiations. In evidence published by the House of Lords yesterday, Mr Barnier said: “If there is to be further progress on the substance it has to come from the UK. “The coming weeks will be decisive in setting the direction of this agreement.
11.45pm Finnish MEP claims Brexit could be the “beginning of the end” for the European Union A Finnish MEP has claimed Brexit could be the “beginning of the end” for the European Union. Laura Huhtasaari claimed Brussels is aware the EU27 would be more prosperous outside of the union. She also suggested the EU is trying to make it “more difficult” to leave like the UK. The politician told the Express: “Weber, who leads the European People’s Party, said that if the UK’s exit was to be successful and you would prosper and triumph…the EU is afraid of competition. 10.00pm update: EU is willing to accept UK requests for fishing opportunities to be divided
The EU is willing to accept UK requests that fishing opportunities be divided using a scientific method after Brexit, The Telegraph reports. The method will reflect the number of fish in UK waters rather than use the EU's Common Fisheries Policy. EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier has hinted that Brussels could agree to the use of zonal attachment, an important British request in ongoing trade negotiations. He said: “There will be no trade agreement with the UK if there is no balanced agreement on fisheries.” 9.45pm Resolution on UK fisheries reached? The EU is willing to accept UK requests that fishing opportunities be divided using a scientific method post-Brexit, The Telegraph reports. The scientific method will reflect the number of fish in UK waters rather than use the EU's Common Fisheries Policy. EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier has hinted that Brussels could agree to the use of zonal attachment, an important British request in ongoing trade negotiations. 8.15pm update: EU fishermen demand access to British fishing waters as talks loom EU Fishermen have demanded access to British fishing waters despite the UK saying they are off-limits in current trade talks. Emiel Brouckaert, head of the Belgian fisheries association, said that they have "always been in British waters." He stressed catches from British waters “brings 50 percent of our income”. Currently, British catches are worth £36million a year for Belgian fisheries whilst French boats fetch £164 million a year from British areas, according to the Fishermen. Mr Brouckaert added: “At the beginning of the century we still had 150 ships, now it's 65. “We hope that the European Parliament will remember us during the negotiations. “In a 'no deal' we will also need financial support from Europe to find alternatives for our fishermen.”
Belgian fishermen are concerned about Brexit.
7.15pm update: Changes to UK courts after Brexit The Government have launched a consultation on plans for UK courts to have the final say on legal disputes after Brexit. Officials are asking the judiciary, lawyers and business to comment on the reforms which will decide which British courts have the power to depart from EU case law. At present, only the UK Supreme Court and the High Court of Justiciary in Scotland will have this power from December 31. But under proposals set out by the Justice Secretary Robert Buckland, more courts and judges in the country would be able to reconsider cases on matters like borders, taxes and fisheries and make the final decision. The Government hopes this will allow cases to progress quicker. 6.15pm update: Angela Merkel will not help Britain secure a deal with Brussels BRITAIN has been warned Angela Merkel may not be the missing piece in the Brexit puzzle, as many have hoped the German Chancellor would ensure a favourable deal is struck in the coming months. The UK is currently embroiled in protracted talks with the EU as both sides attempt to thrash out a favourable post-Brexit trade deal. As the two negotiating teams dispute what concessions should be made, many Brexiteers and MPs are hopeful Germany’s Angela Merkel would ensure the UK will receive a favourable deal - but this may no longer be the case. A comment piece in regional German newspaper Augsburger Allgemeine claims such a view is a “misconception” and warns the country will not be the EU’s weak point. Author Katrin Pribyl, the paper’s London correspondent, writes: “British Eurosceptics have high expectations of Germany of all countries… “The Germans, so the myth that has persisted on the island for years, would end up making concessions to Great Britain out of self-interest and thus paving the way for a deal.” But the journalist completely dismisses the idea and said: “Berlin as the EU's Achilles heel? The comment piece also warned that even though Germany has just taken on the rotating EU Council Presidency, Ms Merkel is unlikely to sway the talks in Britain’s favour.
Angela has said she will not help the UK secure a deal for Brussels.
5.15pm update: UK impose asset freezes and visa bans for the first time using post-Brexit powers The government have imposed sanctions on 25 Russians, including its top investigator, and 20 Saudis today as part of post-Brexit measures foreign secretary Dominic Raab said were aimed at stopping the laundering of "blood money in this country". After leaving the European Union in January, Prime Minister Boris Johnson wants to forge a new independent role for Britain in foreign and trade affairs, and this was the first time the government could impose asset freezes and visa bans independently. Raab has pressed for a tough sanctions regime and set out the first names in parliament, including Russian nationals the government says were involved in the mistreatment and death of lawyer Sergei Magnitsky and Saudis held to be involved in the death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Speaking in the House of Commons, the foreign secretary, said: "If you're a kleptocrat or an organised criminal, you will not be able to launder your blood money in this country. "Today this government ... sends a very clear message on behalf of the British people that those with blood on their hands, the thugs and despots, the henchmen and dictators, will not be free to waltz into this country to buy up property on the King's Road, to do their Christmas shopping in Knightsbridge, or frankly to siphon dirty money through British banks or other financial institutions." 4.15pm update: UK attempts to rejoin space race after losing access to EU Galileo programme because of Brexit The Government has taken a major stake in the failed satellite company OneWeb, in a drive to develop a sovereign UK space capability. Ministers hope it will compensate for the loss of access to the EU's Galileo satellite navigation programme in the wake of Brexit. The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy said the UK and mobile operator Bharti are each investing £400 million, with Britain acquiring a "significant equity stake" in the company. Officials said the deal would put the UK at the "cutting-edge of the latest advances in space technology". It will enable OneWeb - which has its headquarters in London - to complete the construction of a constellation of Low Earth orbit satellites providing enhanced broadband and other services to countries around the world. The UK is part of a consortium with India's Bharti Global which won a bidding war for the company, which went bankrupt earlier this year while trying to develop a space network to deliver broadband.
David Frost arriving at EU talks last week.
3.15pm update: Pro-Brexit group sparks fury after blaming "remainers" for the current state of Brexit negotiations A Pro-Brexit group sparked a furious backlash on Twitter after blaming Remainers for issues concerning the UK’s exit from the EU. The Leave Alliance (TLA) said “Remainers” were to blame for the deadlock in Brexit negotiations which could end with no deal in December. The group argues that Britain made a “fundamental mistake” joining the EU in the 1970s. On Twitter, the TLA said: “These days I’m heavily sceptical of #Brexit and the mess it will surely be, but we are where we are primarily because we had to fight for it three times. “Voting in good faith in a referendum wasn’t enough. Remainers own this mess as much as the Tories.” One person said in response: “How dare you, we said it was a mistake from day one, we said any Brexit is Remain minus, this is ALL on the promoters of Brexit whoever they are. #BrexitShambles.” Another added: “Utter nonsense. Remainers fought against it because it was obviously going to be a disaster.” But the group said in response: “Remainers had at least three windows of opportunity. “They refused to compromise or respect the vote. Now suck up the consequences.” 2.14pm update: Brexit ‘beginning of the end’ for Brussels bloc warns eurosceptic Finnish MEP EU officials could see the "beginning of the end" of the bloc should the British Government succeed in making a success of Brexit, Finnish MEP Laura Huhtasaari warned. The EU has been warned member states could seek their independence should they see Britain "triumph" as an independent state after Brexit. Finnish MEP Laura Huhtasaari claimed Brussels is aware the EU27 would be more prosperous outside of the union as she suggested the bloc is rushing to make it "more difficult" to leave like the UK. Speaking to Express.co.uk, Ms Huhtasaari said: "Weber, who leads the European People’s Party, said that if the UK’s exit was to be successful and you would prosper and triumph…the EU is afraid of competition. "It knows that the member states would do better without the federal state, they would do better as independent states in a free trade area. "If Brexit is a success, it will be the beginning of the end of the EU. "That’s why they are in a hurry, they really want to make it harder and harder to leave the EU, that’s why the corona package is being pushed very, very hard."
Brexit latest: The EU has been warned 'if Brexit is a success, it would be the beginning of the end'
1.25pm update: UK wants to use this week's talks with EU to access progress Britain would like to see if there is a chance for progress in trade talks with the EU after last week's round of negotiations ended a day early with significant differences between the two sides. Boris Johnson's official spokesman said: "UK chief negotiator David Frost has set out that while the talks continue to be constructive there are still significant differences between us. "It is a chance to have some further discussions to see what progress might be made." 12.38pm update: City gripped by no deal Brexit fears and bracing for financial 'regulatory warfare' The City has been gripped by fears of a no deal Brexit and the possibility of chaos with access to EU markets after the latest collapse of talks with the UK on a trade deal. Last week, the EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier accused the UK of trying “to keep as many single market benefits as it can” following Brexit. He warned there is "no way member states or the European Parliament would accept” the UK’s bid for smooth access to European markets for London’s financial district. Finance bosses are now bracing for "regulatory warfare" with Brussels as the clock ticks down to the end of the transition period in just under six-months' time. A failure to reach an agreement could see firms in the City lose access of European markets overnight and find themselves unable to serve their clients throughout the continent from London.
Brexit latest: The City's fears over a no deal outcome are increasing
12.04pm update: Brexit talks NOT resuming in London today The first technical-level meetings get underway tomorrow, Express.co.uk Brussels correspondent Joe Barnes has tweeted, as post-Brexit trade negotiations move to London. An EU Commission spokesman said: "This is not a round of negotiations, per se, the next round is the week of July 20." 11.20am update: Ireland's Simon Coveney issues threat as EU talks break down The country's Foreign Minister has warned of the "damaging" consequences for the UK and Ireland if Britain is unable to agree to terms on a post-Brexit trade deal with the EU. Mr Coveney told Sky News' Adam Boulton that tariffs and quotas will have to be imposed as a result of a no trade deal Brexit. He added that trade between the UK and the European Union will occur on World Trade Organisation (WTO) terms if a deal is not agreed upon by the end of 2020. 10.42am update: Do you even WANT a deal? Irish EU trade chief savages UK over Brexit talks The EU's trade commissioner Phil Hogan has lashed out at the UK's lack of "ambition" during post-Brexit trade talks with the European Union, warning that needs to quickly change if an agreement is going to be signed before the end of the transition period. Speaking on RTÉ's Brendan O'Connor programme with Damien O'Reilly, Ireland's Mr Hogan claimed for the last few months, the EU has been trying to make progress with the UK on several issues, but without much success. He still believes the two sides will strike a post-Brexit trade deal, but only if the UK really wants one and shows ambition to do so. But the EU trade commissioner warned there is still frustration from Brussels the good faith being shown is not being replicated by British negotiators.
Brexit news: Phil Hogan lashed out at the UK's lack of 'ambition' in trade talks with the EU
10.15am update: Pound plummets against euro as traders await trade deal progress Sterling has slumped against the euro as traders keep a close eye on this month's Brexit negotiations on a future trade deal between the UK and EU. The pound was down by 0.4 percent this morning against the single currency at 90.43 pence and flat against the US dollar at $1.2485. Sterling remains six percent weaker so far this year, but has recovered from lows in March, when it sank to $1.14 - its lowest since 1985. Traders are expecting more clarity by the end of this month on whether Britain will agree a trade deal with the bloc, which it left on January 31. 9.54am update: Banks warn Britain and EU over financial chaos The UK and EU have been warned to make progress on EU financial market access due the impacts the coronavirus pandemic will create, according to a bank lobby group. The Association for Financial Markets in Europe (AFME) said that the Covid-19 pandemic will make it harder to cope with any potential disruption in the case that there is no agreement made between the EU and UK. Britain is still in the transition period until the end of the year which means the country has full access to the trade bloc. Any future direct EU access after the transition period is over will be decided by whether Brussels feels the UK regulation is “equivalent” to the standards set in the trade bloc. The EU will not be able to use financial services in London without some agreed access. In a statement, AFME said: “Covid-19 has the potential to disrupt Brexit planning including impacting client readiness, as well as potentially affecting the ability of firms to relocate staff to other jurisdictions.” The group said that the negotiations need to ensure that EU investors can continue using clearing houses in London.
Brexit latest: Michel Barnier warned EU officials need to see an 'equivalent engagement from the UK side'
9.20am update: Britain to introduce new powers to impose sanctions over rights The UK will announce the first foreign nationals to face asset freezes and visa bans for alleged human rights abuses under a new post-Brexit sanctions scheme that follows the 2012 US Magnitsky Act. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has continued to press for a tough sanctions regime, and the first names will today be set out in parliament. This will be followed by further sanctions over the coming months under a "UK-only regime" after Britain left the EU in January. Mr Raab said in a statement: "From today, the UK will have new powers to stop those involved in serious human rights abuses and violations from entering the UK, channelling money through our banks and profiting from our economy. "This is a clear example of how the UK will help to lead the world in standing up for human rights. We will not let those who seek to inflict pain and destroy the lives of innocent victims benefit from what the UK has to offer." 8.35am update: Ireland Brexit trade chief lashes out at UK The country's EU trade commissioner Phil Hogan has said there is real "ambition" from the EU to reach a post-Brexit trade deal with the UK, but does not see that same ambition from the British side. Speaking on RTÉ's Brendan O'Connor programme with Damien O'Reilly, he reiterated his belief that a deal between the two sides can be agreed if the UK wants one. But he warned there is frustration on the EU side that the good faith on both sides is not happening. Mr Hogan said: "I still believe there will be a deal. The ambition of that deal on the European Union side is real. "I don't see the same ambition at the moment on the UK's side so, the ball is in the UK's court, if they want a deal, there is a deal to be done."
Brexit: ’There will be a deal’ says EU trade commissioner
Brexit latest: The transition period ends on December 31, 2020