thedailyexpress--2020-02-13--Fury as Lords give themselves huge payrise ‘wanton disregard for taxpayers’

The Prime Minister said the decision to push up their daily allowance by 3.1 percent to £323 was “ odd ” .
And MPs slammed the hike in the tax-free rate for “ unelected and unaccountable ” members of the House of Lords .
The new allowance rate will come into force in April and will mean peers who attend every day are in line for at least £50,000 by the end of the year .
Peers are not taxed because membership of the upper chamber is not classed as an office or employment .
During Prime Minister ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I do find that it is odd that the House of Lords has chosen to do that , but it is a decision for them , ” he said .
Kirsten Oswald , an SNP MP , said : `` The new daily allowance for the unelected and unaccountable peers being stuffed into the House of Lords by the Prime Minister is set to rise to £323 .
`` The monthly allowance for a single person over 25 on Universal Credit is £317.82.
” Campaigners have repeatedly raised concerns about the allowance system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for millions of pounds in allowances claimed by so-called silent peers who never speak in committees or debates but still pocket the attendance fee .
Willie Sullivan , campaigns director at the Electoral Reform Society , said : “ Voters will not be pleased with unelected peers getting yet another surge in expenses , while most people will barely see a pay rise in 2020 at all .
“ The current system is ripe for exploitation , with peers having to do little more than sign in to claim their tax-free allowance .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ hold them to account at the ballot box is a recipe for wanton disregard for taxpayers , and yet more expenses scandals in Parliament ’ s de facto private members ’ club .
“ If allowances continue to rise without scrutiny , the image of peers keeping the taxi running as they dash in and out to claim their cash will only persist .
”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson slammed peers for giving themselves a pay rise
The Prime Minister said the decision to push up their daily allowance by 3.1 percent to £323 was “odd”. And MPs slammed the hike in the tax-free rate for “unelected and unaccountable” members of the House of Lords. The new allowance rate will come into force in April and will mean peers who attend every day are in line for at least £50,000 by the end of the year.
Peers are not taxed because membership of the upper chamber is not classed as an office or employment. During Prime Minister’s questions, Mr Johnson said: “I do find that it is odd that the House of Lords has chosen to do that, but it is a decision for them,” he said. Kirsten Oswald, an SNP MP, said: "The new daily allowance for the unelected and unaccountable peers being stuffed into the House of Lords by the Prime Minister is set to rise to £323. "The monthly allowance for a single person over 25 on Universal Credit is £317.82.” Campaigners have repeatedly raised concerns about the allowance system being abused. Taxpayers have been billed for millions of pounds in allowances claimed by so-called silent peers who never speak in committees or debates but still pocket the attendance fee.
SNP MP Kirsten Oswald (R) with Nicola Sturgeon
Willie Sullivan, campaigns director at the Electoral Reform Society, said: “Voters will not be pleased with unelected peers getting yet another surge in expenses, while most people will barely see a pay rise in 2020 at all. “The current system is ripe for exploitation, with peers having to do little more than sign in to claim their tax-free allowance. “The fact that voters cannot hold them to account at the ballot box is a recipe for wanton disregard for taxpayers, and yet more expenses scandals in Parliament’s de facto private members’ club. “If allowances continue to rise without scrutiny, the image of peers keeping the taxi running as they dash in and out to claim their cash will only persist.”


thedailyexpress--2020-02-13--Ministers scramble as more than 160 terrorists on the streets after being released early

Ministers are scrambling to push the reforms through Parliament to stop around 50 offenders being let out of jail early without any checks .
The first was due to be set free at the end of the month with five more following in March .
More than 160 convicted terrorists have been released early in the last seven years .
Justice Secretary Robert Buckland said : `` Given the risk that this cohort have shown already that they pose to the public , it 's vital that we pass this legislation rapidly before any more terrorists are automatically released from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we 're aiming for this legislation to receive royal assent before the end of the month and with the support of this House I am confident that we can do this . ''
The Terrorist Offenders Bill will now go before peers where it is expected to face a rockier ride .
But peers have been warned the legislation must be in place by February 27 to stop the next terrorist due for early release being let out .
Sunderland shopkeeper Mohammed Zahir Khan , 42 , is scheduled to be freed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sentence for encouraging terrorism .
The emergency legislation was introduced in the wake of the Streatham terror attack earlier this month , when Sudesh Amman stabbed two bystanders with a knife he had grabbed from a shop .
The 20-year-old was jailed in December 2018 for possessing and distributing terrorist documents but had been freed midway through his sentence less than a fortnight earlier .
It was the second attack in three months to be carried out by a convicted terrorist , after Usman Khan stabbed and killed two people at Fishmongers ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He had been released nearly a year earlier , halfway through a 16-year jail sentence .
Former security minister John Hayes told the Commons more than 160 convicted terrorists have been released early from prison since 2013 .
Sir John said he was `` surprised and disappointed '' by the figures , which do not include offenders who have served fewer than 12 months behind bars .
He added : `` Just imagine the effect on our security services and police of having to deal with the possible consequences of those releases .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the people released would have been rehabilitated and de-radicalised .
He added : `` But we know that 's not always the case . ''

Justice Secretary Robert Buckland
Ministers are scrambling to push the reforms through Parliament to stop around 50 offenders being let out of jail early without any checks. The first was due to be set free at the end of the month with five more following in March.
More than 160 convicted terrorists have been released early in the last seven years. Justice Secretary Robert Buckland said: "Given the risk that this cohort have shown already that they pose to the public, it's vital that we pass this legislation rapidly before any more terrorists are automatically released from custody at the halfway point and therefore we're aiming for this legislation to receive royal assent before the end of the month and with the support of this House I am confident that we can do this." The Terrorist Offenders Bill will now go before peers where it is expected to face a rockier ride. But peers have been warned the legislation must be in place by February 27 to stop the next terrorist due for early release being let out.
Streatham attacker Sudesh Amman
Sunderland shopkeeper Mohammed Zahir Khan, 42, is scheduled to be freed the next day after serving half of his sentence for encouraging terrorism. The emergency legislation was introduced in the wake of the Streatham terror attack earlier this month, when Sudesh Amman stabbed two bystanders with a knife he had grabbed from a shop. The 20-year-old was jailed in December 2018 for possessing and distributing terrorist documents but had been freed midway through his sentence less than a fortnight earlier. It was the second attack in three months to be carried out by a convicted terrorist, after Usman Khan stabbed and killed two people at Fishmongers' Hall near London Bridge in November.
Usman Khan stabbed and killed two people at Fishmongers' Hall near London Bridge last year
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-13--‘Mission IMPOSSIBLE’ Car chiefs furious at petrol and diesel ban as backlash swells

Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced last week he wants to outlaw sales of polluting cars by 2035 , lopping five years off the previous timetable .
But Transport Secretary Grant Shapps revealed yesterday that could be cut further to 2032 .
Motoring organisations accused ministers of “ moving the goal posts ” and warned drivers , manufacturers and car firms were not being given long enough to adjust to the changes .
AA president Edmund King said the proposals incentivised owners of polluting cars to hang on to them for longer .
He said : “ We know drivers support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reduce CO2 emissions but these already stretched targets , potentially being stretched further , might be considered mission impossible .
“ Consumers and industry also need more certainty on a longer term package of grants coupled with a comprehensive charging infrastructure at homes and in towns , cities , motorways and rural locations .
“ Ironically , demonising hybrids , like diesels , could mean some drivers choose not to buy a hybrid in the interim but hang onto their older more polluting vehicles for longer.
” Mr Shapps said 2035 was the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cars to be outlawed .
`` We have said 2035 or even 2032 , ” he added .
Ministers want to impose the ban as quickly as possible as part of the government-wide push to meet environmental targets of making the country carbon neutral by 2050 .
It will mean electric or hydrogen vehicles are the only new ones available to buyers .
Friends of the Earth called for the ban to be moved forward to 2030 .
Mr Shapps , who drives an electric car , said the Government was investing around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ away from petrol and diesel .
He added : `` We have domestic car producers and we want to help them to transition so we are doing a lot of work.
” The move is expected to hit the second hand car market with The RAC accused the Government of “ constantly moving the goalposts forward ” but urged motorists to continue buying hybrid cars .
`` They are potentially the perfect stepping stone for those who want to go electric but who have concerns about range as they are n't as expensive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the moment they give drivers the best of both worlds , ” a spokesman said .
Just 37,850 electric cars were sold in the UK last year , 1.6 percent of new cars sold .
It comes as five cities , London , Birmingham , Coventry , Edinburgh and Glasgow , prepare to hit older vehicles that do not meet tough emissions standards with charges .

Car chiefs are furious at petrol and diesel ban
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced last week he wants to outlaw sales of polluting cars by 2035, lopping five years off the previous timetable. But Transport Secretary Grant Shapps revealed yesterday that could be cut further to 2032.
Motoring organisations accused ministers of “moving the goal posts” and warned drivers, manufacturers and car firms were not being given long enough to adjust to the changes. AA president Edmund King said the proposals incentivised owners of polluting cars to hang on to them for longer. He said: “We know drivers support measures to clean up air quality and reduce CO2 emissions but these already stretched targets, potentially being stretched further, might be considered mission impossible. “Consumers and industry also need more certainty on a longer term package of grants coupled with a comprehensive charging infrastructure at homes and in towns, cities, motorways and rural locations. “Ironically, demonising hybrids, like diesels, could mean some drivers choose not to buy a hybrid in the interim but hang onto their older more polluting vehicles for longer.”
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps
Mr Shapps said 2035 was the latest date for the sale of polluting cars to be outlawed. "We have said 2035 or even 2032,” he added. Ministers want to impose the ban as quickly as possible as part of the government-wide push to meet environmental targets of making the country carbon neutral by 2050. It will mean electric or hydrogen vehicles are the only new ones available to buyers. Friends of the Earth called for the ban to be moved forward to 2030. Mr Shapps, who drives an electric car, said the Government was investing around £1.5 billion in infrastructure for the shift away from petrol and diesel.
Friends of the Earth called for the ban to be moved forward to 2030
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-12--Back off Brussels! Warning obscure clause could give EU say in UK’s public spending

The so-called Northern Ireland Protocol is a clause within the agreement whereby the European Commission would retain jurisdiction over state aid measures which “ affect that trade between Northern Ireland and the Union which is subject to this Protocol ” .
The way forward is unclear , not having been tested up until now , but there are fears some such cases could end up in the European Court of Justice .
Critics claim the process as overseen by the bloc is unwieldy , slow and unfair – and fear Brussels could use the mechanism to impose its own rules @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the rest of the UK after Brexit .
The issue of future arrangements for state aid - the means by which public money is used to subsidise private companies in certain circumstances – now that the UK has left the EU is the subject of a new paper published by the Politeia think tank .
Author James Webber , a partner at law firm Shearman and Sterling LLP , argues the UK should not feel any compulsion to stay aligned with EU rules .
Speaking to Express.co.uk , Mr Baker said : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government is working to replace the Northern Ireland Protocol with the alternative arrangements , which would get rid of differential treatment for Northern Ireland .
“ What the Northern Ireland Protocol does is give the EU the assurance that Northern Ireland effectively works as a kind of hybrid for economic purposes , a kind of hybrid part of the customs union and the economic area , that ’ s what it amounts to .
“ And so it means that Northern Ireland is treated differently within that protocol .
“ What we need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left there forever .
READ MORE : ‘ EU wanted Varadkar !
’ Expert warns Brussels should be VERY worried “ It was a compromise we had to make in order to bring political stability and leave at the same time and I am convinced that if we deliver everything that Boris has set out we will leave the EU brilliantly.
” Mr Baker added : “ EU State aid law matters because , as has been set out here , quite a wide field of control and executive power is gained by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Because the Northern Ireland Protocol potentially extends the sphere of state aid to GB , it ’ s extremely important the Government takes seriously not only replacing the protocol as it applies to Northern Ireland for Northern Ireland ’ s sake , but also , it deals with the issues raised in this paper to make sure that the whole of the UK escapes the EU state aid rules .
DO N'T MISS : Fishing OUTRAGE : UK fishermen rage at EU boats in British waters [ NEWS ] Brexit rage : How @ @ @ @ @ @ @ INSIGHT ] SNP shamed over plans to force fishermen under EU again [ ANALYSIS ] “ Otherwise , we are not going to be able to be effectively independent . ''
With HS2 now given the green light , the question of public funding for major projects is likely to be close to the top of the agenda in the forthcoming Parliament , and Mr Baker said : “ The point is , there is a place for controlled state aid .
`` If you believe in a market economy , then it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t distort the way that that economy functions .
“ And that has really important implications for trade policy – for example , one of the reasons why steel production in the UK and the USA is in trouble , is because there is vast steel production in China , and it ’ s heavily subsidised .
“ So what this conversation is about today is about how we make sure we have free , fair competition , that we don ’ t export unfair practices , and that we are able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the EU , but an independent one.
” Mr Webber ’ s paper highlights a number of areas of concern – as well as offering solutions including the creation of a legal framework inspired by the World Trade Organisation ’ s Subsidies and Countervailing Measures Agreement ( CMA ) .
• In the future , the UK must end EU state aid rules with the transition .
• There is no good reason to transfer EU State aid rules to a new UK regime • A new system to control wasteful and distorting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
• A CMA which respects both UK sovereignty and EU legal autonomy is perfectly possible , and would ensure a level playing field

Steve Baker on need to 'replace' Northern Ireland protocol
The so-called Northern Ireland Protocol is a clause within the agreement whereby the European Commission would retain jurisdiction over state aid measures which “affect that trade between Northern Ireland and the Union which is subject to this Protocol”. The way forward is unclear, not having been tested up until now, but there are fears some such cases could end up in the European Court of Justice. Critics claim the process as overseen by the bloc is unwieldy, slow and unfair – and fear Brussels could use the mechanism to impose its own rules on not just the region, but the rest of the UK after Brexit.
The issue of future arrangements for state aid - the means by which public money is used to subsidise private companies in certain circumstances – now that the UK has left the EU is the subject of a new paper published by the Politeia think tank. Author James Webber, a partner at law firm Shearman and Sterling LLP, argues the UK should not feel any compulsion to stay aligned with EU rules. Speaking to Express.co.uk, Mr Baker said: “There is no current sign that the Government is working to replace the Northern Ireland Protocol with the alternative arrangements, which would get rid of differential treatment for Northern Ireland.
An obscure clause could give Ursula von der Leyen's EU say in UK’s public spending, says Steve Baker
The European Court of Justice in Luxembourg
“What the Northern Ireland Protocol does is give the EU the assurance that Northern Ireland effectively works as a kind of hybrid for economic purposes, a kind of hybrid part of the customs union and the economic area, that’s what it amounts to. “And so it means that Northern Ireland is treated differently within that protocol. “What we need to do is avoid Northern Ireland being left there forever. READ MORE: ‘EU wanted Varadkar!’ Expert warns Brussels should be VERY worried
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UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson
“It was a compromise we had to make in order to bring political stability and leave at the same time and I am convinced that if we deliver everything that Boris has set out we will leave the EU brilliantly.” Mr Baker added: “EU State aid law matters because, as has been set out here, quite a wide field of control and executive power is gained by the Commission over member states. “Because the Northern Ireland Protocol potentially extends the sphere of state aid to GB, it’s extremely important the Government takes seriously not only replacing the protocol as it applies to Northern Ireland for Northern Ireland’s sake, but also, it deals with the issues raised in this paper to make sure that the whole of the UK escapes the EU state aid rules. DON'T MISS:
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Public funding for major projects is likely to be close to the top of the agenda
British Steel in Scunthorpe declared insolvency last year
“Otherwise, we are not going to be able to be effectively independent." With HS2 now given the green light, the question of public funding for major projects is likely to be close to the top of the agenda in the forthcoming Parliament, and Mr Baker said: “The point is, there is a place for controlled state aid. "If you believe in a market economy, then it is very important that we don’t distort the way that that economy functions.
Brexit: Johnson's proposal doesn't 'deal with ECJ' says Farage
“And that has really important implications for trade policy – for example, one of the reasons why steel production in the UK and the USA is in trouble, is because there is vast steel production in China, and it’s heavily subsidised. “So what this conversation is about today is about how we make sure we have free, fair competition, that we don’t export unfair practices, and that we are able to go on as a great neighbour of the EU, but an independent one.” Mr Webber’s paper highlights a number of areas of concern – as well as offering solutions including the creation of a legal framework inspired by the World Trade Organisation’s Subsidies and Countervailing Measures Agreement (CMA).
Boris Johnson's plan for the Irish border
He argues that: • In the future, the UK must end EU state aid rules with the transition. • There is no good reason to transfer EU State aid rules to a new UK regime • A new system to control wasteful and distorting subsidies would be more efficient and accountable. • A CMA which respects both UK sovereignty and EU legal autonomy is perfectly possible, and would ensure a level playing field
World Trade Organisation (WTO)
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-02-12--Goodbye, Leo! Varadkar faces humiliating exit as he's SNUBBED in coalition talks

The embattled Irish leader revealed his Fine Gael party is not involved in coalition talks with any parties and said the “ responsibility falls ” on Sinn Féin to try to form the next government .
His comments comes after Fine Gael came third in the popular vote , with Leo Varadkar himself only securing reelection at the fifth count - a major humiliation in Ireland ’ s electoral system , in which multiple MPs are elected per constituency .
Mr Varadkar said : `` As I see the situation Sinn Fein emerged as the largest party , at least @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` They won it marginally and they did so by making a lot promises to a lot of people in this country .
`` The responsibility falls on them to build a coalition , to negotiate a socialist programme for government that keeps their promises and to seek a Dail majority for it .
`` We are willing to step back and allow them do that . ''
He said he not spoken to Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald , adding : “ I have not been involved in any talks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comes after pressure is building on Mr Varadkar to step down as party leader after Fine Gael got just under 20.9 percent of the vote – its worst ever election result - trailing behind rivals Fianna Fail and Sinn Fein .
READ MORE : Varadkar on brink : Sinn Fein plans left-wing alliance and border poll '' It may have been a tight finish but that means people are saying to us that Fine Gael should go into opposition and we are absolutely willing to do that .
“ In terms of what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in the next couple of weeks , we are the party that founded the state and if we are needed to give the country political stability and good governance , then we are willing to talk to other parties but in the first instance , the onus is on Sinn Fein.
” Sinn Fein are set to meet with a number of parties today to discuss the potential forming of a left-wing government .

Irish election: Sinn Fein coalition ‘not an option’ says Varadkar
The embattled Irish leader revealed his Fine Gael party is not involved in coalition talks with any parties and said the “responsibility falls” on Sinn Féin to try to form the next government. His comments comes after Fine Gael came third in the popular vote, with Leo Varadkar himself only securing reelection at the fifth count - a major humiliation in Ireland’s electoral system, in which multiple MPs are elected per constituency.
Leo Varadkar's political future is hanging in the balance
Mr Varadkar said: "As I see the situation Sinn Fein emerged as the largest party, at least in terms of votes in this election. "They won it marginally and they did so by making a lot promises to a lot of people in this country. "The responsibility falls on them to build a coalition, to negotiate a socialist programme for government that keeps their promises and to seek a Dail majority for it.
Under party rules, Mr Varadkar would have to put himself up for re-election to secure his leadership post
"We are willing to step back and allow them do that." He said he not spoken to Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald, adding: “I have not been involved in any talks of that nature”. His admission comes after pressure is building on Mr Varadkar to step down as party leader after Fine Gael got just under 20.9 percent of the vote – its worst ever election result - trailing behind rivals Fianna Fail and Sinn Fein. READ MORE: Varadkar on brink: Sinn Fein plans left-wing alliance and border poll
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Mr Varadkar insisted he would lead the opposition
Sinn Fein's Chris Andrews celebrates his election to the Dail as the member for Dublin Bay South, at the Dublin City count
"It may have been a tight finish but that means people are saying to us that Fine Gael should go into opposition and we are absolutely willing to do that. “In terms of what may happen later on in the process, in the next couple of weeks, we are the party that founded the state and if we are needed to give the country political stability and good governance, then we are willing to talk to other parties but in the first instance, the onus is on Sinn Fein.” Sinn Fein are set to meet with a number of parties today to discuss the potential forming of a left-wing government.
Trending
Leo Varadkar's political future is hanging in the balance


thedailyexpress--2020-02-12--PMQs: 'Demeaning' Corbyn skewered over deportation rant as Boris brutally hits back

Boris Johnson clashed with the Labour leader in Prime Minister ’ s Questions , and the political rivals immediately became engaged in a war of words .
Jeremy Corbyn said : “ Does the Prime Minister think that someone who came to this country at the age of five and was compelled to carry drugs , released five years ago and never reoffended , deserves to be deported ?
” The Prime Minister replied : “ While I can not comment on individual cases , it is entirely right that foreign national offenders should be deported from this country in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Labour leader raged the Government “ has learnt absolutely nothing from the Windrush scandal ” .
He added : “ This cruel and callous Government is trying to mislead the British people into believing it is solely deporting foreign nationals who are guilty of murder , rape and other very serious offences .
This is clearly not the case .
“ Take the example of a young black boy who came to the UK aged five and is now being deported after serving time for a drugs offence .
“ If there was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with blonde hair who later dabbled in Class A drugs and conspired with a friend to beat up a journalist , would he deport that boy or is it one rule for young black boys from the carribbevn and white boys from the US ?
” A furious Mr Johnson snapped back : “ The Right Honourable Gentleman demeans himself and besmirches the reputation of the Windrush generation who came to this country to work in our public services to teach children in this country to make lives better .
“ He has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with foreign national offenders we are deporting today.
” SEE BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES FROM PMQS : Boris Johnson says : `` I salute everyone involved in bringing home potential victims of coronavirus , considering the difficulties and risks they face .
`` Our NHS have so far done an outstanding job in preparing and informing the country . ''
Labour MP for Harrow West Gareth Thomas asks when Northwick Park - the hospital in his local constituency - will receive some `` Government love and attention '' .
He says the hospital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ target since August 2014 , and could end the financial year with a deficit close to £100million .
Mr Johnson responds : `` The highest number of people ever attended A & E last month - two million people - and the demand is exceptional .
`` We are responding with a record investment in the NHS - £34billion - and recruiting 50,000 more nurses to help address that crisis . ''
12.18pm update : Corbyn 'soft on deportation of serious violent offender' Labour MP for Nottingham north Alex Norris outlines how on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are victims of violence at work .
He asks the Prime Minister to publish his `` call for evidence '' and urges him to meet shop workers who have been victims of violent crime .
But Mr Johnson hits back with a dig at Jeremy Corbyn .
He says : `` We should not tolerate crimes aof violence against shop workers or anyone else .
`` Therefore , I find it paradoxical the leader of his party is soft one the deportation of serious violent offenders . ''
12.12pm update : Johnson comes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The SNP ’ s Westminster leader Ian Blackford highlighted the human plight suffered by victims of the Syrian War .
He asked Mr Johnson for how responsible his Government should feel over the humanitarian crisis .
After Mr Johnson highlighted the £3.2billion in funding Britain had committed to the humanitarian crisis , Mr Blackford said : “ The question was about these children who are literally freezing to death .
“ Assad has delivered death and destruction on these people .
A man who has gassed his own civilians .
“ Is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the UK government is washing his hands on the Syrian people ?
” Mr Johnson replies : “ He needs to consult his memory better , he will find this country and this government has consistently called for the end to the Assad regime , has led the world in denouncing the cruelty of the Assad regime to his own people.
” 12.08pm update : Labour leader urges PM to take action on Harry Dunn case Jeremy Corbyn urges Mr Johnson to fight for justice in the Harry Dunn case .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ request extradition for British citizens in certain circumstances when the UK can not do the same in return .
The Labour leader urges Mr Johnson to fight for an “ equal and balanced ” deal with the US .
Mr Johnson says : “ I think the Honourable Gentleman has a point .
I do think there are elements of that relationship that are unbalanced .
“ But it is totally different from the case of Harry Dunn.
” The Prime Minister says the Labour leader “ demeans himself and besmirches the reputation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson adds : “ He has no right to conflate them with those foreign national offenders we are deporting .
”

PMQs: Johnson slams Corbyn over Jamaica deportation flight
Boris Johnson clashed with the Labour leader in Prime Minister’s Questions, and the political rivals immediately became engaged in a war of words. Jeremy Corbyn said: “Does the Prime Minister think that someone who came to this country at the age of five and was compelled to carry drugs, released five years ago and never reoffended, deserves to be deported?” The Prime Minister replied: “While I cannot comment on individual cases, it is entirely right that foreign national offenders should be deported from this country in accordance to the law.”
PMQs LIVE: Boris Johnson is set for a furious clash in the House of Commons
PMQs LIVE: Boris Johnson said Jeremy Corbyn 'demeans himself and besmirches the reputation of the Windrush generation'
But the Labour leader raged the Government “has learnt absolutely nothing from the Windrush scandal”. He added: “This cruel and callous Government is trying to mislead the British people into believing it is solely deporting foreign nationals who are guilty of murder, rape and other very serious offences. This is clearly not the case. “Take the example of a young black boy who came to the UK aged five and is now being deported after serving time for a drugs offence. “If there was a case of a young white boy with blonde hair who later dabbled in Class A drugs and conspired with a friend to beat up a journalist, would he deport that boy or is it one rule for young black boys from the carribbevn and white boys from the US?”
PMQs LIVE: Jeremy Corbyn urged the Prime Minister to fight for justice in the Harry Dunn case
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A furious Mr Johnson snapped back: “The Right Honourable Gentleman demeans himself and besmirches the reputation of the Windrush generation who came to this country to work in our public services to teach children in this country to make lives better. “He has no right to conflate them with those with foreign national offenders we are deporting today.” SEE BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES FROM PMQS:
PMQs LIVE: Jeremy Corbyn immediately launched into attack against Boris Johnson
12.25pm update: PM pays tribute to health workers involved in bringing potential coronavirus victims home Boris Johnson says: "I salute everyone involved in bringing home potential victims of coronavirus, considering the difficulties and risks they face. "Our NHS have so far done an outstanding job in preparing and informing the country." 12.19pm update: Boris outlines record Government investment in NHS to address A&E crisis Labour MP for Harrow West Gareth Thomas asks when Northwick Park - the hospital in his local constituency - will receive some "Government love and attention". He says the hospital has not met its A&E target since August 2014, and could end the financial year with a deficit close to £100million. Mr Johnson responds: "The highest number of people ever attended A&E last month - two million people - and the demand is exceptional. "We are responding with a record investment in the NHS - £34billion - and recruiting 50,000 more nurses to help address that crisis."
PMQs LIVE: Ian Blackford did not choose to attack the Prime Minister over Scottish independence
12.18pm update: Corbyn 'soft on deportation of serious violent offender'
Labour MP for Nottingham north Alex Norris outlines how on a daily basis, 280 shop workers are victims of violence at work. He asks the Prime Minister to publish his "call for evidence" and urges him to meet shop workers who have been victims of violent crime. But Mr Johnson hits back with a dig at Jeremy Corbyn. He says: "We should not tolerate crimes aof violence against shop workers or anyone else. "Therefore, I find it paradoxical the leader of his party is soft one the deportation of serious violent offenders." 12.12pm update: Johnson comes under attack from SNP over humanitarian crisis The SNP’s Westminster leader Ian Blackford highlighted the human plight suffered by victims of the Syrian War. He asked Mr Johnson for how responsible his Government should feel over the humanitarian crisis. After Mr Johnson highlighted the £3.2billion in funding Britain had committed to the humanitarian crisis, Mr Blackford said: “The question was about these children who are literally freezing to death. “Assad has delivered death and destruction on these people. A man who has gassed his own civilians. “Is the message the Prime Minister is sending, is the UK government is washing his hands on the Syrian people?” Mr Johnson replies: “He needs to consult his memory better, he will find this country and this government has consistently called for the end to the Assad regime, has led the world in denouncing the cruelty of the Assad regime to his own people.”
HS2: Johnson champions call for Cleethorpes rail improvement
12.08pm update: Labour leader urges PM to take action on Harry Dunn case Jeremy Corbyn urges Mr Johnson to fight for justice in the Harry Dunn case. He says it was unfair the US could request extradition for British citizens in certain circumstances when the UK cannot do the same in return. The Labour leader urges Mr Johnson to fight for an “equal and balanced” deal with the US. Mr Johnson says: “I think the Honourable Gentleman has a point. I do think there are elements of that relationship that are unbalanced. “But it is totally different from the case of Harry Dunn.” 12.06pm update: Johnson fires back at Corbyn The Prime Minister says the Labour leader “demeans himself and besmirches the reputation of the Windrush generation”. Mr Johnson adds: “He has no right to conflate them with those foreign national offenders we are deporting.”
Britain's constitution explained
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-12--‘They can’t be trusted!’ Nicola Sturgeon warned DON’T hold illegal Scotland IndyRef2 -poll

A staggering 72 percent said Scotland ’ s First Minister would be out of line pushing ahead with the unauthorised second vote , amounting to 2,964 people in an Express.co.uk poll .
As much as 27 percent disagreed , which was 1,130 participants , who thought she should go ahead and call Mr Johnson ’ s bluff over the ballot , called IndyRef2 .
Just one percent - or 63 people - clicked the ‘ don ’ t know ’ option .
Data was collected on February 12 between 11.37 and 9pm with 4,157 people taking part .
Comments widely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ One read : “ Come on Boris , abolish devolution .
It is NOT working and has been a gigantic and financial failure for Scotland.
” A second said : “ Sturgeon ’ s personal hatred for the English is really going to damage Scotland .
She is only interested in being ‘ Queen ’ and Ruler of Scotland.
” A third said : “ This would be the illegal use of public funds.
” A fourth added : “ No , because the SNP can not be trusted to be honest about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Quite simply this is not a BLUFF .
It is about time the SNP started to behave.
” A sixth comment read : “ No because if it didn ’ t go her way she ’ d find some excuse to have another one.
” It comes as Ms Sturgeon remains in a bitter standoff with Mr Johnson over a second Scottish independence referendum .
Last month Mr Johnson rejected the SNP leader ’ s request to hold another ballot .
READ NOW : Sturgeon ’ s dream to rejoin EU destroyed as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But calls are growing for the First Minister to ignore opposition from Westminster and press on with her bid for independence .
A new survey has found the majority of Scots are in favour of Holyrood legislating to hold a referendum despite Mr Johnson ’ s refusal to back the move .
SNP MP Joanna Cherry QC has insisted “ now is the moment to begin the preparations ” for a second independence referendum .
She called for Holyrood to pass a Bill to hold a referendum and then let the Prime Minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had the power to do so .
The case would be decided at the UK Supreme Court , with Ms Cherry stating : “ Many legal experts think we would win the argument.
” DO N'T MISS : Thanks , Boris !
SNP mocks PM over Scottish independence campaign [ NEWS ] Ian Blackford ’ s chilling Scottish independence prediction exposed [ VIDEO ] Sturgeon shamed : SNP accused of ‘ sheer hypocrisy ’ [ ANALYSIS ]

Indyref2: Sturgeon's agenda a 'threat to jobs' says Greg Smith
A staggering 72 percent said Scotland’s First Minister would be out of line pushing ahead with the unauthorised second vote, amounting to 2,964 people in an Express.co.uk poll. As much as 27 percent disagreed, which was 1,130 participants, who thought she should go ahead and call Mr Johnson’s bluff over the ballot, called IndyRef2. Just one percent - or 63 people - clicked the ‘don’t know’ option.
Data was collected on February 12 between 11.37 and 9pm with 4,157 people taking part. Comments widely reflected the result of the poll. One read: “Come on Boris, abolish devolution. It is NOT working and has been a gigantic and financial failure for Scotland.” A second said: “Sturgeon’s personal hatred for the English is really going to damage Scotland. She is only interested in being ‘Queen’ and Ruler of Scotland.” A third said: “This would be the illegal use of public funds.”
A staggering 72 percent said Scotland’s First Minister would be out of line with the vote
As much as 27 percent disagreed, which was 1,130 participants
A fourth added: “No, because the SNP cannot be trusted to be honest about the result.” Another said: “Quite simply this is not a BLUFF. It is about time the SNP started to behave.” A sixth comment read: “No because if it didn’t go her way she’d find some excuse to have another one.” It comes as Ms Sturgeon remains in a bitter standoff with Mr Johnson over a second Scottish independence referendum. Last month Mr Johnson rejected the SNP leader’s request to hold another ballot. READ NOW: Sturgeon’s dream to rejoin EU destroyed as MP exposes trade deficit [NEWS]
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Last month Mr Johnson rejected the SNP leader’s request
But calls are growing for the First Minister to ignore opposition from Westminster and press on with her bid for independence. A new survey has found the majority of Scots are in favour of Holyrood legislating to hold a referendum despite Mr Johnson’s refusal to back the move. SNP MP Joanna Cherry QC has insisted “now is the moment to begin the preparations” for a second independence referendum. She called for Holyrood to pass a Bill to hold a referendum and then let the Prime Minister mount a legal challenge on whether they had the power to do so. The case would be decided at the UK Supreme Court, with Ms Cherry stating: “Many legal experts think we would win the argument.” DON'T MISS:
Thanks, Boris! SNP mocks PM over Scottish independence campaign [NEWS]
Ian Blackford’s chilling Scottish independence prediction exposed [VIDEO]
Sturgeon shamed: SNP accused of ‘sheer hypocrisy’ [ANALYSIS]
Data was collected on February 12 between 11.37 and 9pm with 4,157 people taking part
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-13--'Have death wish?' Long-Bailey skewered as BBC host exposes staggering Labour stubbornness

Rebecca Long-Bailey is considered to be the continuity candidate in the Labour leadership challenge Jeremy Corbyn triggered after announcing his resignation in December .
The Labour Party suffered three electoral defeats under Mr Corbyn 's leadership , a result equally blamed on his longtime unclear position on Brexit as well as his socio-economic reform proposals .
But with Ms Long-Bailey appearing to be on the verge of steaming ahead on the same path of her mentor , BBC News host Katie Razzall asked : `` You candidates are all sounding pretty similar in terms of spending plans .
`` One @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said , ‘ if the definition of insanity is doing the same thing twice expecting a different result , what do we call a third time ?
A death wish.
’ `` Do you have a death wish ? ''
The Labour Party came under fire during the election campaign because of its proposed reforms to the tax systems aimed at the highest-earners in the country to fund moe public services .
The Institute for Fiscal Studies said Mr Corbyn 's pledges were unrealistic and there were substantial `` risks '' with both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tax rises .
JUST IN : Rebecca Long-Bailey ally sparks furious transphobia row with professor But Ms Long-Bailey appeared committed to delivering on the pledges Mr Corbyn set out in his last manifesto : `` Tax pays for our public services and our public services deliver our future .
`` They help us realise our aspirations whether that ’ s good health , good education , good infrastructure that leads to improvement in productivity .
We should never be afraid of making the case for a fair taxation system .
`` We ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ slashed taxes for the most wealthy in society , they slashed corporation tax . ''
She added : `` I ’ m quite happy with the 45p tax rate for those earning over £80,000 and a 50p tax rate for over £125,000 .
READ MORE : Rebecca Long-Bailey ‘ behaving like Stalinist with dirty tricks ’ in Labour leadership race '' The question we should be asking candidates now is , do we support those two proposals going into a general election ? ''
Labour leadership candidates have until Friday , February 14 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three unions or at least five percent of constituency parties to ensure their name is on the final ballot box .
Ms Long-Bailey snatched the backing of Unite the Union and train drivers ' union ASLEF , making sure she faces off Sir Keir Starmer and Wigan MP Lisa Nandy in the battle for the leadership .
Shadow Foreign Secretary Emily Thornberry , also a candidate in the contest , is believed not to have won over enough support and is likely to crash our of the race on Friday .
Emily Thornberry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of problem ’ for loss [ UPDATE ] Labour 's furious Thornberry and de Piero in shocking clash [ INSIGHT ] Emily Thornberry criticised for praising Corbyn ’ s record on racism [ ANALYSIS ]

Labour: Long-Bailey admits party must 'tackle' anti-Semitism
Rebecca Long-Bailey is considered to be the continuity candidate in the Labour leadership challenge Jeremy Corbyn triggered after announcing his resignation in December. The Labour Party suffered three electoral defeats under Mr Corbyn's leadership, a result equally blamed on his longtime unclear position on Brexit as well as his socio-economic reform proposals. But with Ms Long-Bailey appearing to be on the verge of steaming ahead on the same path of her mentor, BBC News host Katie Razzall asked: "You candidates are all sounding pretty similar in terms of spending plans.
"One of your MPs, Wes Streeting, said, ‘if the definition of insanity is doing the same thing twice expecting a different result, what do we call a third time? A death wish.’ "Do you have a death wish?" The Labour Party came under fire during the election campaign because of its proposed reforms to the tax systems aimed at the highest-earners in the country to fund moe public services. The Institute for Fiscal Studies said Mr Corbyn's pledges were unrealistic and there were substantial "risks" with both the proposed spending increases and the proposed tax rises. JUST IN: Rebecca Long-Bailey ally sparks furious transphobia row with professor
Long-Bailey was left stunned when confronted over her support for Corbyn's failed policies
Long-Bailey renewed her commitment to taxing the highest earners to fund public services
But Ms Long-Bailey appeared committed to delivering on the pledges Mr Corbyn set out in his last manifesto: "Tax pays for our public services and our public services deliver our future. "They help us realise our aspirations whether that’s good health, good education, good infrastructure that leads to improvement in productivity. We should never be afraid of making the case for a fair taxation system. "We’ve seen what happened when the government slashed taxes for the most wealthy in society, they slashed corporation tax." She added: "I’m quite happy with the 45p tax rate for those earning over £80,000 and a 50p tax rate for over £125,000. READ MORE: Rebecca Long-Bailey ‘behaving like Stalinist with dirty tricks’ in Labour leadership race
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Brexit: Keir Starmer says ‘there’s no question of rejoining the EU’
Long-Bailey joined fellow candidates on Wednesday in the first televised contest debate
"The question we should be asking candidates now is, do we support those two proposals going into a general election?" Labour leadership candidates have until Friday, February 14 to secure the support of at least three unions or at least five percent of constituency parties to ensure their name is on the final ballot box. Ms Long-Bailey snatched the backing of Unite the Union and train drivers' union ASLEF, making sure she faces off Sir Keir Starmer and Wigan MP Lisa Nandy in the battle for the leadership. Shadow Foreign Secretary Emily Thornberry, also a candidate in the contest, is believed not to have won over enough support and is likely to crash our of the race on Friday. DON'T MISS Emily Thornberry forced to admit Corbyn was ‘part of problem’ for loss [UPDATE]
Labour's furious Thornberry and de Piero in shocking clash [INSIGHT]
Emily Thornberry criticised for praising Corbyn’s record on racism [ANALYSIS]
Candidates have until Friday to get the backing of three unions or at least 5 percent of CLPs
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-13--Brexit LIVE: Desperate Verhofstadt issues panicked plea as EU finally wakes up to UK loss

The Belgian politician took to Twitter to blast the division between member states ahead of a crunch summit later this month where EU leaders will be urged to hammer out the seven-year budget .
Mr Verhofstadt ’ s public rebuke comes as European Council president Charles Michel prepares to host the February 20 talks on the multi annual financial framework ( MFF ) .
The leaders of poor countries have locked horns with the heads of richer nations over the EU ’ s spending plans .
EU ’ s ‘ looming crisis ’ exposed by Greek MEP as he warns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the former prime minister of Belgium , urged leaders to come together to build a “ sovereign Europe ” which will be “ capable to act ” on the world stage after the bloc lost it ’ s 28th member on January 31 .
Mr Verhofstadt tweeted on Wednesday : “ It ’ s time EU leaders put their differences on the EU budget aside & make an agreement with the EU Parliament .
“ Differences should be put in perspective .
“ The debate is whether to spend 1 % & 1.11 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ GNI , when we need a sovereign Europe capable to act in the world !
” Given that Britain was the second-biggest net payer into the EU common pot , wealthier member states are facing calls to step up to the mark and fork out more money to close the Brexit gap as well as fund new priorities .
Guy Verhofstadt has called for unity among EU leaders as they try to thrash out the budget SEE BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES .
A senior diplomat who was involved in the previous round of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The net payers will have to show they fought for every penny.
” Net recipients on the other hand are demanding no cuts to development aid .
Germany is out to take up its six-month EU presidency in July .
Angela Merkel will therefore be keen to wrap up the budget talks before her country takes the reins .
The Germans ’ term is expected to be dominated by meetings with the UK focusing on a free trade deal .
Guy Verhofstadt 's plea comes before the crunch summit on February 20 Business @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out .
The former Conservative leadership candidate was dismissed in a meeting in the Prime Minister ’ s Commons office .
She tweeted : It has been a real privilege to serve in government for the last six years , and in @ beisgovuk ( the Department for Business , Energy and Industrial Strategy ) for six months .
“ I now look forward to focusing on my constituents and on my 20+ year campaign to see every baby get the best start in life .
“ I ’ m particularly proud of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the countdown to the COP ( climate change summit ) and on making the UK the best place in the world to work and to grow a business .
“ I will continue from the back benches to work to ensure everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
” 10.31am update : More than 350k applied for EU settlement scheme in January More than 350,000 EU citizens applied last month to live and work in the UK after Brexit , official figures show .
The Home Office received 351,800 applications for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ takes the total number received by the end of January to more than 3.1 million ( 3,107,900 ) .
Some 280,100 applications were finalised last month , with 56 percent granted permanent leave to remain in the UK , known as settled status , and 43 percent given pre-settled status , where they would need to re-apply again after living in the country for five years to gain permanent residence .
One application was refused on suitability grounds during this period , according to the data .
Mr Smith said : “ Serving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the biggest privilege .
“ I am extremely grateful to @ BorisJohnson for giving me the chance to serve this amazing part of our country .
“ The warmth & support from people across NI has been incredible .
Thank you so much.
” 9.35am update : Cabinet ministers arrive at the Commons ahead of sackings Ministers have started to arrive at the Commons ahead of Boris Johnson ’ s reshuffle of his cabinet as he prepares for post-Brexit talks with the EU .

EU Plenary: Lamberts slams Schulz and Verhofstadt on MFF
The Belgian politician took to Twitter to blast the division between member states ahead of a crunch summit later this month where EU leaders will be urged to hammer out the seven-year budget. Mr Verhofstadt’s public rebuke comes as European Council president Charles Michel prepares to host the February 20 talks on the multi annual financial framework (MFF). The leaders of poor countries have locked horns with the heads of richer nations over the EU’s spending plans.
Mr Verhofstadt, the former prime minister of Belgium, urged leaders to come together to build a “sovereign Europe” which will be “capable to act” on the world stage after the bloc lost it’s 28th member on January 31.
Mr Verhofstadt tweeted on Wednesday: “It’s time EU leaders put their differences on the EU budget aside & make an agreement with the EU Parliament.
“Differences should be put in perspective.
“The debate is whether to spend 1% & 1.11% or even 1.13% of EU GNI, when we need a sovereign Europe capable to act in the world!”
Given that Britain was the second-biggest net payer into the EU common pot, wealthier member states are facing calls to step up to the mark and fork out more money to close the Brexit gap as well as fund new priorities.
Guy Verhofstadt has called for unity among EU leaders as they try to thrash out the budget
A senior diplomat who was involved in the previous round of budget talks in 2013 said: “The net payers will have to show they fought for every penny.”
Net recipients on the other hand are demanding no cuts to development aid.
Germany is out to take up its six-month EU presidency in July.
Angela Merkel will therefore be keen to wrap up the budget talks before her country takes the reins.
The Germans’ term is expected to be dominated by meetings with the UK focusing on a free trade deal. SEE BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES.
Guy Verhofstadt's plea comes before the crunch summit on February 20
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5.33pm update: Varadkar ‘paid price for bashing Britain over Brexit’ Leo Varadkar’s constant "bashing of Britain over Brexit" has spectacularly backfired leaving the Taoiseach"washed up", according to political expert Tom Gallagher. Mr Gallaghar said Mr Varadkar had paid the ultimate price at the polls for making Brexit his main focus during his electoral campaign. During its campaign, Mr Varadkar’s party Fine Gael highlighted their leader’s success in preventing a hard border on the island and keeping Northern Ireland free of checks after Brexit. But the strategy fell flat amid voter dissatisfaction over an ongoing homeless crisis, a creaking health service and a huge tranche of voters aged under 35 locked out of the housing market. Mr Gallagher wrote: “Leo Varadkar thought that bashing Britain over Brexit would be the campaign theme that would enable his Fine Gael Party to achieve second decade in power. “But instead, at 41, he looks washed-up politically and is unlikely to be in charge if the deadlocked result on means another general election has to be held before the year is out.” 4.02pm update: Brexiteer Suella Braverman promoted to Attorney General Boris Johnson has appointed an ardent Brexiteer as Attorney General as he mounts a major review of Britain's courts and constitution. Suella Braverman was promoted to the role from Brexit Minister after Geoffrey Cox was sacked in the Cabinet reshuffle. The former Attorney in New York State will now play a crucial role as the Prime Minister sets up a "commission" to examine the relationship between the courts and the government. Mr Cox's previous legal advice was a thorn in the Prime Minister's side as he attempted to push through his version of Brexit. Meanwhile, Downing Street is determined to take on what it sees as "activist" legal actions such as judicial reviews against government police.
Suella Braverman has replaced Geoffrey Cox as Attorney General
3.15pm update: Germany calls for post-Brexit security co-operation Germany defence minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer insists the EU and Britain have a shared interest in retaining close security ties after Brexit. Ms Kramp-Karrenbauer, who this week announced she was standing down as CDU leader and would not seek the post of chancellor when Angela Merkel steps down, was speaking ahead of the annual Munich Security Conference. She said she wanted to keep Britain in the 'E3' group, which also includes Germany and France. She said: "It is important to me that the UK remains involved for common security in Europe, even if it is no longer part of the EU. "I want to continue to involve the UK closely through the E3 format.” Ms Kramp-Karrenbauer's call for cooperation comes after London scaled down its delegation to the Munich conference, the so-called 'Davos for defence'. No senior British ministers are due to attend.
Germany defence minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer
2.10pm update: Concern among members states ahead of trade talks EU sources have said there are concerns among some members states that negotiating avenues could be blocked off ever before the Brussels and the UK kick off their trade talks. One diplomat said: “You need space to find common ground.” 1.26pm update: Johnson’s Brexit adviser blamed for Javid exit Labour MPs were quick to blame the Prime Minister's chief adviser Dominic Cummings as the driving force behind the shock resignation of Sajid Javid as chancellor weeks before the Budget. It comes after long-standing rumours of tension between Boris Johnson's closest aide and Mr Javid. David Lammy, MP for Tottenham, took a swipe at the influential Brexit strategist on Twitter, writing: "Remember when this lot dragged us out of the EU because they didn't like 'unelected bureaucrats' having power?" Shadow chancellor John McDonnell said it is "clear Dominic Cummings has won the battle to take absolute control of the Treasury and has installed his stooge as the Chancellor". 12.35pm update: Ministers refuse to say if UK will stay in European Convention on human rights A Labour MP has said Winston Churchill would be "turning in his grave" over a minister's refusal to commit to the UK remaining in the European Convention on Human Rights. The 1998 Human Rights Act enshrines the Convention, which was initially spearheaded by Mr Churchill and came into force in Britain in 1953. Labour's Geraint Davies (Swansea West) asked: "Can he give a solemn undertaking today that we will not be withdrawing from the European Convention on Human Rights? "Nor will we withdraw from the Council of Europe?" In his response, Solicitor General Michael Ellis said the UK will remain committed to human rights despite Brexit, but refused to be drawn on the specifics of the European Convention. He added: "The UK is committed to human rights, the fact is EU exit doesn't change that. "The UK will continue to champion human rights at home and abroad and it's part of who we are as a people. "We've practised human rights before the (Human Rights) 1998 Act. We'll continue to do so. "And we're committed to upholding the rule of law. "The United Kingdom is a beacon in this area around the world, leaving the European Union doesn't change that." Mr Davies could then be heard saying: "Churchill will be turning in his grave." 12.05pm update: Javid resigns as Chancellor 10.46am update: Senior Brexiteer Leadsom sacked by Johnson Business secretary and prominent Brexiteer Andrea Leadsom is out. The former Conservative leadership candidate was dismissed in a meeting in the Prime Minister’s Commons office. She tweeted: It has been a real privilege to serve in government for the last six years, and in @beisgovuk (the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy) for six months. “I now look forward to focusing on my constituents and on my 20+ year campaign to see every baby get the best start in life. “I’m particularly proud of my work in BEIS on net zero and the countdown to the COP (climate change summit) and on making the UK the best place in the world to work and to grow a business. “I will continue from the back benches to work to ensure everyone is treated with dignity and respect.” 10.31am update: More than 350k applied for EU settlement scheme in January More than 350,000 EU citizens applied last month to live and work in the UK after Brexit, official figures show. The Home Office received 351,800 applications for the EU Settlement Scheme in January. This takes the total number received by the end of January to more than 3.1 million (3,107,900). Some 280,100 applications were finalised last month, with 56 percent granted permanent leave to remain in the UK, known as settled status, and 43 percent given pre-settled status, where they would need to re-apply again after living in the country for five years to gain permanent residence. One application was refused on suitability grounds during this period, according to the data. 9.36am update: Johnson sacks NI secretary Boris Johnson has sacked Northern Ireland Secretary Julian Smith. Mr Smith said: “Serving the people of Northern Ireland has been the biggest privilege. “I am extremely grateful to @BorisJohnson for giving me the chance to serve this amazing part of our country. “The warmth & support from people across NI has been incredible. Thank you so much.” 9.35am update: Cabinet ministers arrive at the Commons ahead of sackings Ministers have started to arrive at the Commons ahead of Boris Johnson’s reshuffle of his cabinet as he prepares for post-Brexit talks with the EU.
European Union facing ‘big division’ over budget says expert
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