thedailyexpress--2020-11-21--Meddling Tony Blair orders Boris Johnson to keep Britain's £15billion foreign aid budget

Boris Johnson ’ s Chancellor Rishi Sunak is under pressure to axe the £15billion a year spend in the upcoming Budget to help fund the UK 's huge coronavirus crisis bill .
The former Labour premier , who served as Prime Minister 13 years ago , has teamed up with David Cameron to warn the Tory leader the move would undermine his presidency of the G7 .
Mr Blair said foreign aid - and the 0.7 target - had been a `` great British soft power achievement ” , saving millions of lives in Africa by reducing deaths from malaria @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be a “ profound strategic mistake ” .
The UK has a legal commitment to spend 0.7 percent of its economy 's GDP on foreign projects and some of the world ’ s richest countries , including China and India , have benefited from taxpayers ’ money .
The money saved could also be used to fund Foreign Office and Ministry of Defence projects .
But Mr Blair told the Daily Telegraph : `` Over the past 20 years , the British commitment to 0.7 per cent has helped cut deaths from malaria @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Africa , measured literally in millions ; raised life expectancy dramatically ; educated better many millions more children ; created stability and assisted development which has seen investment and living standards rise to levels not experienced before .
`` This has been a great British soft power achievement .
It 's enlightened self-interest .
“ Neither the challenge of climate or COVID-19 can be met without Africa .
Nor can those of extremism and uncontrolled immigration .
To change it is a profound strategic mistake . ''
Chancellor Sunak is widely expected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to spend 0.7 percent of national income on overseas aid to 0.5 percent in next week 's spending review .
READ MORE : Overseas aid 'could be slashed by £4bn ' - public finances under strain '' Moral , because we should be keeping our promises to the world 's poorest .
A strategic error , because we would be signalling retreat from one of the UK 's vital acts of global leadership .
`` And a political mistake because the UK is about to chair the G7 and important climate change negotiations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to his clear manifesto promise , maintain UK leadership and save lives . ''
Last week , the Prime Minister 's official spokesman drew attention to the fact that the legislation enshrining the 0.7 percent target in UK law might not always be met .

GMB: Susanna Reid grills Ben Wallace over UK foreign aid
Boris Johnson’s Chancellor Rishi Sunak is under pressure to axe the £15billion a year spend in the upcoming Budget to help fund the UK's huge coronavirus crisis bill. The former Labour premier, who served as Prime Minister 13 years ago, has teamed up with David Cameron to warn the Tory leader the move would undermine his presidency of the G7.
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Mr Blair said foreign aid - and the 0.7 target - had been a "great British soft power achievement”, saving millions of lives in Africa by reducing deaths from malaria and HIV, and cutting it would be a “profound strategic mistake”. The UK has a legal commitment to spend 0.7 percent of its economy's GDP on foreign projects and some of the world’s richest countries, including China and India, have benefited from taxpayers’ money. The money saved could also be used to fund Foreign Office and Ministry of Defence projects. But Mr Blair told the Daily Telegraph: "Over the past 20 years, the British commitment to 0.7 per cent has helped cut deaths from malaria, HIV and others on the continent of Africa, measured literally in millions; raised life expectancy dramatically; educated better many millions more children; created stability and assisted development which has seen investment and living standards rise to levels not experienced before.
Tony Blair has urged Boris not to cut the foreign aid budget
Tony Blair said foreign aid - and the 0.7 target - had been a "great British soft power achievement”
"This has been a great British soft power achievement. It's enlightened self-interest. “Neither the challenge of climate or COVID-19 can be met without Africa. Nor can those of extremism and uncontrolled immigration. To change it is a profound strategic mistake." Chancellor Sunak is widely expected to pare back the UK's commitment to spend 0.7 percent of national income on overseas aid to 0.5 percent in next week's spending review. READ MORE: Overseas aid 'could be slashed by £4bn' - public finances under strain
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Tony Blair has teamed up with David Cameron to warn against cutting the foreign aid budget
Chancellor Rishi Sunak is under pressure to axe the £15billion a year spend in the upcoming Budget to help fund the UK's huge coronavirus crisis bill
The spending on aid is related to gross national income which, in 2019, was £2.17 trillion
"Moral, because we should be keeping our promises to the world's poorest. A strategic error, because we would be signalling retreat from one of the UK's vital acts of global leadership. "And a political mistake because the UK is about to chair the G7 and important climate change negotiations. I hope the PM will stick to his clear manifesto promise, maintain UK leadership and save lives." Last week, the Prime Minister's official spokesman drew attention to the fact that the legislation enshrining the 0.7 percent target in UK law might not always be met.
Meanwhile, coronavirus has led to a strain on the public purse with the Government spending billions keeping the economy ticking over. Earlier this week, Mr Johnson was urged to rethink the plan in a letter signed by 185 development and humanitarian charity leaders including Save The Children, Greenpeace UK, and Unicef UK. The former prime minister’s added in a joint statement: ”Now is not the time to renege on our promise to spend 0.7% of our gross national income on aid and development.”


thedailyexpress--2020-11-21--Boris slams Sadiq Khan for 'blowing' London's finances amid calls for PM to take control

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Boris Johnson blamed Sadiq Khan for leaving London bankrupt , amid growing concern over the capital 's finances .
During Prime Minister 's Questions earlier this week , Mr Johnson , who is also Mr Khan 's predecessor as London Mayor , accused him of `` blowing '' Transport for London ’ s finances .
Mr Khan has been accused of leaving London @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the Government over funding .
Conservative MP Andrew Rosindell asked about a flyover in Romford , saying : `` Will the Prime Minister commit today to stepping in where Sadiq Khan has failed , bankrupting TfL to the tune of £10bn , and guarantee the necessary funding to replace and reshape this junction , especially as it will form a major route to and from the new Lower Thames Crossing ? ''
Mr Johnson responded : `` My honourable friend is absolutely right that it 's the current Labour Mayor of London @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were left in remarkably good condition by the previous Mayor of London , Mr Speaker , even before the pandemic struck .
`` I can assure my honourable friend that we are working with TfL to see what we can do to resolve the problem . ''
Sadiq Khan immediately accused Mr Johnson of lying to MPs with his claim that the Mayor had bankrupted Transport for London .
JUST IN : London cab driver in damning attack on Mayor over COVID failures

Boris Johnson blamed Sadiq Khan for leaving London bankrupt, amid growing concern over the capital's finances. During Prime Minister's Questions earlier this week, Mr Johnson, who is also Mr Khan's predecessor as London Mayor, accused him of "blowing" Transport for London’s finances. Mr Khan has been accused of leaving London's economy in ruin amid regular clashes with the Government over funding.
Conservative MP Andrew Rosindell asked about a flyover in Romford, saying: "Will the Prime Minister commit today to stepping in where Sadiq Khan has failed, bankrupting TfL to the tune of £10bn, and guarantee the necessary funding to replace and reshape this junction, especially as it will form a major route to and from the new Lower Thames Crossing?"
Mr Johnson responded: "My honourable friend is absolutely right that it's the current Labour Mayor of London who blew TfL's finances, which were left in remarkably good condition by the previous Mayor of London, Mr Speaker, even before the pandemic struck.
"I can assure my honourable friend that we are working with TfL to see what we can do to resolve the problem."
Sadiq Khan immediately accused Mr Johnson of lying to MPs with his claim that the Mayor had bankrupted Transport for London.
JUST IN: London cab driver in damning attack on Mayor over COVID failures


thedailyexpress--2020-11-22--Boris facing Tory REVOLT as MPs furiously reject looming Covid crackdown after December 2

The Prime Minister will on Monday confirm that the second lockdown will end on December 2 – but will be replaced by toughened up `` tier '' measures .
His replacement Winter Covid Plan will be “ difficult ” , ministers admit , with one source saying : “ This will not be a normal festive period.
” These plans , which MPs can vote on this coming Thursday , would see the country return to a tougher version of the controversial three-tier system , with more areas in the highest category .
But the rebels , who point out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will refuse to support the measures unless it is demonstrated they “ will save more lives than they cost ” .
They warn in a letter to Mr Johnson : “ The lockdown cure prescribed runs the very real risk of being worse than the disease.
” Science advisors from Sage will publish further papers on Monday , setting out scientific advice expected to state that the previous tiers were not strong enough , and that a tougher regional approach is required .
This could see shops remain shut in tier 3 areas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2 areas .
It could also have extreme limitations on people from different households meeting .
The Government insists that the plans “ will not last any longer than absolutely necessary ” and that tiers will be “ reviewed on a regular basis ” .
But the plans are set to be opposed by the new Covid Recovery Group ( CRG ) of Tory MPs chaired by former minister and leadership contender Mark Harper and founded by prominent Brexiteer Steve Baker .
A CRG letter , signed by 70 Conservative MPs and 14 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prime Minister and makes it clear that they will not support any attempt to bring in a third lockdown .
Significantly , the group have also said that any attempt to reintroduce the tier system in England will have to be justified by clear scientific evidence .
This follows ongoing concerns that figures quoted by Mr Johnson , his chief scientific advisor Sir Patrick Vallance and chief medical officer Chris Whitty to justify the second lockdown were inaccurate .
Figures produced at a press conference ahead of lockdown included an extreme death toll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
These statistics have been criticised for being out of date and not taking into account the effects of the tier system .
A second letter signed by more than 60 MPs and organised by Tory grandee Sir Edward Leigh has demanded that places of worship are allowed to reopen in all areas .
The CRG letter notes : “ The tiered restrictions approach in principle attempts to link virus prevalence with measures to tackle it , but it ’ s vital we remember always that even the tiered system of restrictions infringes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ huge health and economic costs .
Even tier 1 only allows groups of up to six people to meet indoors .
“ We can not support this approach further unless the Government demonstrates the restrictions proposed for after 2nd December will have an impact on slowing the transmission of Covid , and will save more lives than they cost .
“ To this end , the Government must publish a full cost-benefit analysis of the proposed restrictions on a regional basis so that MPs can assess responsibly the non-Covid health impact of restrictions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on livelihoods.
” MPs said they are “ especially concerned ” about outside sport , the 10pm curfew , closure of non-essential retail , gyms and personal care businesses , restrictions on worship , care home visits , hospitality and the inclusion of children under 12 in the “ Rule of 6 ” .
“ The burden is on the Government to demonstrate the necessity and proportionality of each restriction , ” they added .
The same tone was also struck by Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham in comments ahead of a meeting of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Burnham said : “ There ’ s no point having restrictions just to be seen to be doing something - make sure they are things that will actually bring the number of cases down.
” Saturday saw a further 341 deaths and 19,875 cases were recorded , down from 511 deaths and 20,252 cases on the previous day .
The Government believes that recent positive developments on vaccines and mass testing “ provide real confidence ” that the reliance on economic and social restrictions to control the virus can be gradually reduced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Provided vaccines are approved by regulators , the first injections can be made next month before being rolled out more widely in the New Year .
A Number 10 spokeswoman said : “ Everyone ’ s efforts during the current national restrictions have helped bring the virus back under control , slowed its spread and eased pressures on the NHS .
“ But the Prime Minister and his scientific advisors are clear the virus is still present - and without regional restrictions it could quickly run out of control again before vaccines and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ That would put in jeopardy the progress the country has made , and once again risk intolerable pressure on the NHS.
” DO N'T MISS Should foreign aid be cut to pay UK 's huge coronavirus bill ?
VOTE HERE [ POLL ] Tony Blair orders Boris to keep Britain 's £15bn foreign aid budget [ INSIGHT ] PRETEND Lockdown is what happens when they LIE - RICHARD MADELEY [ COMMENT ] Former chief Government scientific advisor Sir Mark Walport told Times Radio the lockdown measures appeared to be working but that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He cautioned : ” It ’ s absolutely clear that if you were to stop everything and take the brakes off completely , then infection would start growing again and so the question is what measures will come in after December 2 ?
“ I ’ m sure there will need to be continuing measures of some sort .
Surely now , when there is the prospect of a vaccine , is not the time to give up.
” Additional pressure was piled on Mr Johnson from the Blue Collar Conservative group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the £1.9billion given in covid aid to supermarkets and give it to self-employed people who have had little support .
Former Work and Pensions Secretary Esther McVey said the cash should be used to help people running small businesses who do not qualify for help and are on the brink of ruin .
Ms McVey said : “ Supermarkets need to hand back the £1.9billion of support they got from taxpayers in the form of exempted business rates .
This money was designed to protect shops on the high street which were closed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extra money for supermarkets that not only remained open throughout but have positively prospered in that time .
“ They must know it is the right thing to do .
And if the big supermarket chains won ’ t do the right thing and hand the money back , then the government should take it from them in a windfall tax .
”

Boris Johnson gives update as he begins self-isolation
The Prime Minister will on Monday confirm that the second lockdown will end on December 2 – but will be replaced by toughened up "tier" measures. His replacement Winter Covid Plan will be “difficult”, ministers admit, with one source saying: “This will not be a normal festive period.” These plans, which MPs can vote on this coming Thursday, would see the country return to a tougher version of the controversial three-tier system, with more areas in the highest category.
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But the rebels, who point out the harm that such restrictions cause, will refuse to support the measures unless it is demonstrated they “will save more lives than they cost”. They warn in a letter to Mr Johnson: “The lockdown cure prescribed runs the very real risk of being worse than the disease.” Science advisors from Sage will publish further papers on Monday, setting out scientific advice expected to state that the previous tiers were not strong enough, and that a tougher regional approach is required. This could see shops remain shut in tier 3 areas and pubs and restaurants closed in tier 2 areas. It could also have extreme limitations on people from different households meeting.
Boris Johnson is facing a major showdown this week from Tory backbenchers
Coronavirus MAP global cases live
The Government insists that the plans “will not last any longer than absolutely necessary” and that tiers will be “reviewed on a regular basis”. But the plans are set to be opposed by the new Covid Recovery Group (CRG) of Tory MPs chaired by former minister and leadership contender Mark Harper and founded by prominent Brexiteer Steve Baker. A CRG letter, signed by 70 Conservative MPs and 14 peers, has been sent to the Prime Minister and makes it clear that they will not support any attempt to bring in a third lockdown. Significantly, the group have also said that any attempt to reintroduce the tier system in England will have to be justified by clear scientific evidence. This follows ongoing concerns that figures quoted by Mr Johnson, his chief scientific advisor Sir Patrick Vallance and chief medical officer Chris Whitty to justify the second lockdown were inaccurate.
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Boris Johnson will tomorrow confirm that the second lockdown will end on December 2
Figures produced at a press conference ahead of lockdown included an extreme death toll of up to 4,000 fatalities a day. These statistics have been criticised for being out of date and not taking into account the effects of the tier system. A second letter signed by more than 60 MPs and organised by Tory grandee Sir Edward Leigh has demanded that places of worship are allowed to reopen in all areas. The CRG letter notes: “The tiered restrictions approach in principle attempts to link virus prevalence with measures to tackle it, but it’s vital we remember always that even the tiered system of restrictions infringes deeply upon people’s lives with huge health and economic costs. Even tier 1 only allows groups of up to six people to meet indoors. “We cannot support this approach further unless the Government demonstrates the restrictions proposed for after 2nd December will have an impact on slowing the transmission of Covid, and will save more lives than they cost. “To this end, the Government must publish a full cost-benefit analysis of the proposed restrictions on a regional basis so that MPs can assess responsibly the non-Covid health impact of restrictions, as well as the undoubted impact on livelihoods.” MPs said they are “especially concerned” about outside sport, the 10pm curfew, closure of non-essential retail, gyms and personal care businesses, restrictions on worship, care home visits, hospitality and the inclusion of children under 12 in the “Rule of 6”. “The burden is on the Government to demonstrate the necessity and proportionality of each restriction,” they added.
Boris Johnson is a ‘reluctant Brexiteer’ says Ben Habib
The same tone was also struck by Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham in comments ahead of a meeting of the northern metropolitan mayors on Monday. Mr Burnham said: “There’s no point having restrictions just to be seen to be doing something - make sure they are things that will actually bring the number of cases down.” Saturday saw a further 341 deaths and 19,875 cases were recorded, down from 511 deaths and 20,252 cases on the previous day. The Government believes that recent positive developments on vaccines and mass testing “provide real confidence” that the reliance on economic and social restrictions to control the virus can be gradually reduced in the run up to spring. Provided vaccines are approved by regulators, the first injections can be made next month before being rolled out more widely in the New Year. A Number 10 spokeswoman said: “Everyone’s efforts during the current national restrictions have helped bring the virus back under control, slowed its spread and eased pressures on the NHS. “But the Prime Minister and his scientific advisors are clear the virus is still present - and without regional restrictions it could quickly run out of control again before vaccines and mass testing have had an effect. “That would put in jeopardy the progress the country has made, and once again risk intolerable pressure on the NHS.” DON'T MISS
Should foreign aid be cut to pay UK's huge coronavirus bill? VOTE HERE [POLL]
Tony Blair orders Boris to keep Britain's £15bn foreign aid budget [INSIGHT]
PRETEND Lockdown is what happens when they LIE - RICHARD MADELEY [COMMENT]
Coronavirus MAP live cases


thedailyexpress--2020-11-22--Sunak issues swipe at Sturgeon as he praises UK 'strength' amid SNP demand for more cash

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Chancellor Rishi Sunak said the Scottish people should `` know that they have the strength and security of the whole of the United Kingdom behind them '' in the midst of COVID-19 .
In a swipe at Nicola Sturgeon ’ s nationalist Government agenda , Mr Sunak told the Scottish Conservative Conference the UK Government had given an additional £8.2billion of COVID-19 funding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vital time '' .
But the Scottish Finance Secretary has written to Mr Sunak asking to inject another £98billion into the UK economy to help mitigate the impact of the coronavirus pandemic despite the funding .
Ahead of the Chancellor ’ s spending review on Wednesday , Kate Forbes told the Chancellor to `` invest for recovery , rather than balance the books '' .
She added : `` The importance of fiscal stimulus has never been greater , and there is a strong case for increasing day-to-day government spending to support the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ generate increased Barnett consequentials for the Scottish Government and clarity that funding for the NHS will be adequate to meet the continued costs of responding to COVID-19.
” The SNP cabinet minister stressed a £98billion financial stimulus , would bring the UK in line with France , Germany and New Zealand where similar packages amounting to 5 percent of GDP have been announced .
However , Mr Sunak praised the impact the UK Government 's actions had had north of the border when coronavirus restrictions forced businesses to close .

Rishi Sunak outlines how government uses money from taxes
Chancellor Rishi Sunak said the Scottish people should "know that they have the strength and security of the whole of the United Kingdom behind them" in the midst of COVID-19. In a swipe at Nicola Sturgeon’s nationalist Government agenda, Mr Sunak told the Scottish Conservative Conference the UK Government had given an additional £8.2billion of COVID-19 funding to the Scottish Government "at this vital time".
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But the Scottish Finance Secretary has written to Mr Sunak asking to inject another £98billion into the UK economy to help mitigate the impact of the coronavirus pandemic despite the funding. Ahead of the Chancellor’s spending review on Wednesday, Kate Forbes told the Chancellor to "invest for recovery, rather than balance the books". She added: "The importance of fiscal stimulus has never been greater, and there is a strong case for increasing day-to-day government spending to support the economy. "This increased spending must generate increased Barnett consequentials for the Scottish Government and clarity that funding for the NHS will be adequate to meet the continued costs of responding to COVID-19.” The SNP cabinet minister stressed a £98billion financial stimulus, would bring the UK in line with France, Germany and New Zealand where similar packages amounting to 5 percent of GDP have been announced. However, Mr Sunak praised the impact the UK Government's actions had had north of the border when coronavirus restrictions forced businesses to close.
Mr Sunak says “tough” sacrifices have to be made now and in the future
Mr Johnson also spoke at the conference
During his conference speech, he stressed the "overwhelming might of the UK Treasury" meant Westminster had been able to take "unprecedented action to support all of Scotland through this pandemic". More than 79,000 businesses in Scotland have benefited from UK Government loan schemes, worth more than £2.9billion and 930,000 jobs have been supported under the Furlough scheme. The Treasury's country and regional analysis report (CRA) also found spend per head on public services was higher in Scotland signalling the benefits of Scotland remaining in the union. Figures revealed in 2019/20, the Treasury spent £11,566 in Scotland, compared to a UK average of £9,895, a difference of £1,671. Mr Sunak continued: "The restrictions that we are facing, the sacrifices that we have had to make. READ MORE: Boris tears apart SNP record in Scotland – lists THREE worst areas
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Kate Forbes has requested more funding
“They are tough now and they will remain tough for some time. "But the threat of this pandemic will pass. "And when it does we will then need to take that spirit of collective endeavour onto the task of rebuilding Scotland and the rest of our country together. "The enduring principle that when we come together as one United Kingdom we can achieve far more than we do as four separate nations, is as relevant today, in the most difficult time in many of our lives, as it has ever been. "If we come together then we can beat this virus." DON'T MISS:
Sturgeon to FACE off with Boris today as tensions soar over indy [LATEST]
Scotland gets £2,000 MORE per person than England [REVEAL]
SNP admits motorists 'unlikely' to be stopped by police despite ban [INSIGHT]
More than a million Scottish jobs have been protected by government schemes, Mr Sunak says


thedailyexpress--2020-11-22--Boris Johnson tears apart SNP record in Scotland – lists THREE worst performing areas

Mr Johnson said he had always fully supported Scottish devolution after he reportedly described it as a `` disaster '' in a conference call with Tory MPs branding it `` Tony Blair 's biggest mistake '' .
On Saturday , in a speech at the Scottish Conservative Conference , however , the Prime Minister insisted his remarks had been reported `` not entirely accurately '' .
Mr Johnson stressed his `` round , unvarnished view '' was that `` the way the SNP has handled devolution in Scotland has been a disaster '' .
Addressing delegates , he claimed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ governments need to work together to `` rebuild from its ravages '' and give people a `` better , brighter future '' .
Mr Johnson made clear that despite the increase in support for Scottish independence , he insisted `` frankly '' that this was not the time for `` division or distraction about our national constitution '' .
The most recent YouGov polling conducted earlier this month put the SNP on 56 percent for the constituency vote and 47 percent for the regional list .
The Scottish Conservatives stood at 19 percent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Labour were on 15 percent and 13 percent .
Professor of Politics at Strathclyde University John Curtice , and Scottish polling guru , said the SNP had been handed a Christmas present from the comments about downplaying devolution .
He said : “ The UK government has been concerned about Scotland for quite a while .
“ Boris has gifted them [ the SNP ] the opportunity to portray the UK Government as them trying to curb the powers of the Scottish Parliament .
“ The SNP probably can ’ t believe their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £2,000 MORE per person than England Mr Johnson also said the SNP led administration had caused “ plummeting education standards , low business confidence and the lowest satisfaction in public services ever ” in Scotland .
He continued : “ The key is to have policies to show how devolution can work for Scotland , rather than the SNP obsession with making devolution work against the rest of the UK .
“ However , just because I criticise devolved performance , does not mean I want to end or undermine devolution.
” Turning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thanked Nicola Sturgeon and her government for the way they had worked together with UK ministers and fellow politicians to tackle the virus , which he branded a `` plague '' .
But he stressed politicians regardless of their party needed to work together making use of “ vaccine stocks , test kits and new technology that come from being part of what is one of the world 's leading scientific superpowers '' .
DO N'T MISS : Boris tears apart SNP record in Scotland – lists THREE worst areas [ REVEAL ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as tensions soar over indy [ LATEST ] SNP admits motorists 'unlikely ' to be stopped by police despite ban [ INSIGHT ] He continued : “ COVID-19 does n't care about constitutional arrangements and whatever our political differences .
`` We all need to work together at this time to protect the health and jobs of the people of Scotland . ''
He stressed the “ cut and thrust ” of normal political debate would `` return in full force when the threat of the virus has abated . ''
Mr Johnson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cudgels of political battle again , let ’ s never forget what we have achieved through cooperation – through working across the whole of our United Kingdom to face down a deadly threat that respects no tier of government or boundaries .
`` My view is clear – nobody could be more proud than I am of our United Kingdom and the vital contribution Scotland makes to it .
`` Too often this conversation becomes about pounds and pence , but what I know , and many others believe also , is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than that . ''
The PM had recently fallen out with Scottish Tory leader Douglas Ross over his Scottish devolution comments , a concept which the Moray MP was in favour of .
Mr Ross said : `` The Prime Minister was elected as mayor of London twice , so he believes in devolution .
`` Devolution is not the problem , the problem has been the SNP 's obsession over its thirteen-and-a-half years in power with separating Scotland from the rest of the United Kingdom . ''
But Mr Johnson sought a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and said of his Scottish counterpart : `` In my friend Douglas Ross , you have a leader of our party in Scotland who is the very personification of Unionism – someone who believes deeply in the United Kingdom and in fighting for Scotland ’ s best interests within that Union . ''
SNP depute leader Keith Brown responded by saying it was “ a nothing speech that demonstrates exactly how much thought and consideration the Prime Minister really gives to Scotland.
” The Nationalist MSP said : `` Zero effort , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10 minutes of hollow nothingness beyond more weasel words of deflection from his blunder in revealing he thinks devolution has been a disaster.
” Mr Brown said the Prime Minister should have apologised for “ insulting the democratic choice of the people of Scotland and for the litany of toxic Tory policies ” .
The depute leader compared these from a “ disastrous Brexit in the midst of a devastating pandemic.
” He concluded : “ Once again , untrustworthy Johnson has demonstrated the Tories do n't care about the needs of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way to properly protect Scotland 's interests is to become an independent , European country . ''

Boris Johnson hits out at SNP’s handling of devolution
Mr Johnson said he had always fully supported Scottish devolution after he reportedly described it as a "disaster" in a conference call with Tory MPs branding it "Tony Blair's biggest mistake". On Saturday, in a speech at the Scottish Conservative Conference, however, the Prime Minister insisted his remarks had been reported "not entirely accurately".
Trending
Mr Johnson stressed his "round, unvarnished view" was that "the way the SNP has handled devolution in Scotland has been a disaster". Addressing delegates, he claimed the coronavirus pandemic means the Scottish and UK governments need to work together to "rebuild from its ravages" and give people a "better, brighter future". Mr Johnson made clear that despite the increase in support for Scottish independence, he insisted "frankly" that this was not the time for "division or distraction about our national constitution". The most recent YouGov polling conducted earlier this month put the SNP on 56 percent for the constituency vote and 47 percent for the regional list. The Scottish Conservatives stood at 19 percent and 20 percent respectively, while Scottish Labour were on 15 percent and 13 percent.
Boris Johnson addressed the Scottish Conservatives Conference today
Boris Johnson addressed the Scottish Tory Conference today
Professor of Politics at Strathclyde University John Curtice, and Scottish polling guru, said the SNP had been handed a Christmas present from the comments about downplaying devolution. He said: “The UK government has been concerned about Scotland for quite a while. “The comments count in the ‘not helpful’ category. “Boris has gifted them [the SNP] the opportunity to portray the UK Government as them trying to curb the powers of the Scottish Parliament. “The SNP probably can’t believe their luck.” READ MORE: Scotland gets £2,000 MORE per person than England
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Nicola Sturgeon
Mr Johnson also said the SNP led administration had caused “plummeting education standards, low business confidence and the lowest satisfaction in public services ever” in Scotland. He continued: “The key is to have policies to show how devolution can work for Scotland, rather than the SNP obsession with making devolution work against the rest of the UK. “However, just because I criticise devolved performance, does not mean I want to end or undermine devolution.” Turning to the coronavirus pandemic, Mr Johnson thanked Nicola Sturgeon and her government for the way they had worked together with UK ministers and fellow politicians to tackle the virus, which he branded a "plague". But he stressed politicians regardless of their party needed to work together making use of “vaccine stocks, test kits and new technology that come from being part of what is one of the world's leading scientific superpowers". DON'T MISS:
Boris tears apart SNP record in Scotland – lists THREE worst areas [REVEAL]
Sturgeon to FACE off with Boris today as tensions soar over indy [LATEST]
SNP admits motorists 'unlikely' to be stopped by police despite ban [INSIGHT]
Support for Scottish independence sits at 55 percent
He continued: “COVID-19 doesn't care about constitutional arrangements and whatever our political differences. "We all need to work together at this time to protect the health and jobs of the people of Scotland." He stressed the “cut and thrust” of normal political debate would "return in full force when the threat of the virus has abated." Mr Johnson continued: "When we take up the cudgels of political battle again, let’s never forget what we have achieved through cooperation – through working across the whole of our United Kingdom to face down a deadly threat that respects no tier of government or boundaries. "My view is clear – nobody could be more proud than I am of our United Kingdom and the vital contribution Scotland makes to it.
Support for independence was highest at 58 percent


thedailyexpress--2020-11-21--Ian Blackford stunned as Sky host brutally dismantles SNP's desperate bid for independence

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SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford spoke to Sky News 's Nick Quraishi to discuss Boris Johnson 's comments on devolution .
This comes after the Prime Minister had said that devolution had been a failure earlier this week in a meeting .
Mr Blackford claimed Scotland should and would eventually have another independence referendum before the Sky host retorted Boris Johnson has the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` The Prime Minister should respect devolution and respect the right of the people of Scotland when we so choose to have that independence referendum .
`` After all , we have got a Prime Minister that is taking us out of Europe .
`` We know there is going to either be no deal or a bad deal over the coming days .
`` We have got no desire to be leaving the single market or the customs union and we have to find a place of safety .
DO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ record in Scotland – lists THREE worst areas

Indyref2: Ian Blackford shut down over continued calls
SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford spoke to Sky News's Nick Quraishi to discuss Boris Johnson's comments on devolution. This comes after the Prime Minister had said that devolution had been a failure earlier this week in a meeting. Mr Blackford claimed Scotland should and would eventually have another independence referendum before the Sky host retorted Boris Johnson has the final say on this.
Trending
Mr Blackford said: "The Prime Minister should respect devolution and respect the right of the people of Scotland when we so choose to have that independence referendum. "After all, we have got a Prime Minister that is taking us out of Europe. "We know there is going to either be no deal or a bad deal over the coming days. "We have got no desire to be leaving the single market or the customs union and we have to find a place of safety. DON'T MISS: Boris tears apart SNP record in Scotland – lists THREE worst areas
Ian Blackford stunned as Sky Host hilariously dismisses persistent call for independence
Ian Blackford: was quickly shut down by a Sky News host after claims Scotland would get an independence referendum.
"Thank goodness we have got the SNP providing the leadership that the people of our country are responding to." Mr Quraishi replied: "The Prime Minister is the one who gives the say-so on an independence referendum. "That is not going to happen if you continue to attack him." The Sky News host also went into greater detail of Boris Johnson's comments on devolution.
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Ian Blackford: The Sky News host also went into greater detail of Boris Johnson's comments on devolution.
SNP’s Blackford clashes with Question Time guest on devolution
He added: "Let me also just suggest that in Boris Johnson's words he has said the performance of devolution and not opposing it as a concept." Mr Blackford defended the SNP's record over the past years and again attacked the Prime Minister. He said: "Well, what I think he is trying to do is wriggle out of what he did do this week. "This is because what he did do is say devolution has been a disaster. "But when you look at the record of the Scottish Government it holds up well. READ MORE: Sturgeon blasted for 'criminalising' Scots as MSP exposes travel ban [INSIGHT]
'No chance of divisive referendum in 2021' Brown dismantles Sturgeon [VIDEO]
Scotland gets £2,000 MORE per person than England [ANALYSIS]
Ian Blackford: Mr Blackford defended the SNP's record over the past years and again attacked the Prime Minister.


thedailyexpress--2020-11-21--Ann Widdecombe warns Boris poised to betray Brexit Britain and 'SURRENDER' to the EU

Former Brexit Party MEP Ann Widdecombe admitted that Boris Johnson was only going to make bad decisions going forward with trade talks .
While speaking to Martin Daubney and Belinda de Lucy on Brexit Unlocked , Ms Widdecombe claimed Boris could cave to the EU as early as next week Tuesday .
She insisted that he had already shown he does not stick to his Brexit promises .
She highlighted his reluctance to step away from trade talks with the EU after a deadline is missed .
Ms Widdecombe said : `` I think Boris Johnson will betray Brexit and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ben Habib has repeated the numerous deadlines that we have had saying that if we got to that point we were going to go .
`` Now if we had actually walked at the end of June , my belief is that we would have had a deal by now .
`` This is because they would have realised that we were serious and they would have recognised our sovereignty and we would have been talking about terms of trade .
`` That is something different altogether .
`` But Boris did n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it for numerous subsequent deadlines . ''
Ms Widdecombe reiterated her scepticism that the UK and EU were close to agreeing on a Brexit deal .
She insisted the EU had so far not shown the willingness to deal with the UK like a separate nation .
She said : `` If anyone is seriously talking about Tuesday then it will be an abject surrender .
`` This is because there has not been the slightest sign that the EU is prepared to recognise that we will be in exactly the same position @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We are not just a semi-detached member of the EU , which is what they are trying to reduce us to .
Germany chaos : Angela Merkel humiliated over lockdown rebellion [ VIDEO ] EU chaos : Defiant Brussels could force Hungary and Poland OUT of bloc [ INSIGHT ] Rees-Mogg shuts down SNP 's independence dream by exposing Sturgeon [ VIDEO ]

Brexit: Widdecombe warns ‘decisions will all be bad ones’
Former Brexit Party MEP Ann Widdecombe admitted that Boris Johnson was only going to make bad decisions going forward with trade talks. While speaking to Martin Daubney and Belinda de Lucy on Brexit Unlocked, Ms Widdecombe claimed Boris could cave to the EU as early as next week Tuesday. She insisted that he had already shown he does not stick to his Brexit promises.
Trending
She highlighted his reluctance to step away from trade talks with the EU after a deadline is missed. Ms Widdecombe said: "I think Boris Johnson will betray Brexit and the signs have been there. "Ben Habib has repeated the numerous deadlines that we have had saying that if we got to that point we were going to go. "Now if we had actually walked at the end of June, my belief is that we would have had a deal by now. DON'T MISS: Brexiteer savages EU shackling Britain and Boris Johnson in talks
Ann Widdecombe warns Boris about to betray Britain as nothing but 'bad decisions ahead'
Ann Widdecombe: Ms Widdecombe claimed Boris could cave to the EU as early as next week Tuesday
"This is because they would have realised that we were serious and they would have recognised our sovereignty and we would have been talking about terms of trade. "That is something different altogether. "But Boris didn't do it and he didn't do it for numerous subsequent deadlines." Ms Widdecombe reiterated her scepticism that the UK and EU were close to agreeing on a Brexit deal.
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Ann Widdecombe: Ms Widdecombe reiterated her scepticism that the UK and EU were close to agreeing on a Brexit deal.
Brexit: Liz Truss announces UK has agreed deal with Canada
She insisted the EU had so far not shown the willingness to deal with the UK like a separate nation. She said: "If anyone is seriously talking about Tuesday then it will be an abject surrender. "This is because there has not been the slightest sign that the EU is prepared to recognise that we will be in exactly the same position as any other sovereign state. "We are not just a semi-detached member of the EU, which is what they are trying to reduce us to. READ MORE: Germany chaos: Angela Merkel humiliated over lockdown rebellion [VIDEO]
EU chaos: Defiant Brussels could force Hungary and Poland OUT of bloc [INSIGHT]
Rees-Mogg shuts down SNP's independence dream by exposing Sturgeon [VIDEO]
Ann Widdecombe: She insisted the EU had so far not shown the willingness to deal with the UK like a separate nation.


thedailyexpress--2020-11-21--Scottish Tories hatch plot to oust Nicola Sturgeon and SNP from power in 2021 election

The Scottish Conservatives won a record 31 MSPs in the 2016 Scottish elections which prevented a majority for the SNP at the Scottish Parliament .
But the new leader claimed the party would be brought to `` new heights in next year 's Scottish Parliament election '' which is expected to take place on May 6th .
Speaking during the Scottish Conservative Conference , he stressed after being asked about a partnership with other parties : `` I want to ensure that as many of the policies I am developing with my team right now can be enacted .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everyone to deliver the policies that will improve our education , will ensure our justice system is far fairer on the victims rather than the criminals , on ensuring it produces the jobs that people in Scotland need right now and will definitely need as we continue to face the consequences of this global pandemic .
`` I will work with anyone and everyone on that issue . ''
His comments came in an interview at the start of the Scottish Conservative conference , with the party leader stressing the increasing presence of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the UK than socialism .
He stressed the SNP `` want to separate Scotland from the rest of the United Kingdom '' , making he stressed made the NATS , `` absolutely a greater threat . ''
He added of the party : `` They want to tear us apart from our friends , our family and our colleagues in England , Wales and Northern Ireland .
`` This is a union that has delivered so much in the last 300 years , the most powerful economic and political union the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that delivers in times of crisis and in normal times as well .
`` This is a union I am passionate about .
READ MORE : Boris tears apart SNP record in Scotland – lists THREE worst areas '' This is a union that two million Scots voted to remain part of just six years ago , this is a union that can continue to deliver for Scotland and Scotland can continue to benefit from being part of . ''
During a later speech , Mr Ross branded the SNP led Scottish Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ claiming the Government should help Scotland 's 32 councils .
As he outlined his vision for Scotland , he claimed his party would bring forward laws to ensure local authorities get a fair share of public funds as part of a new funding deal .
He stressed this was part of a commitment to `` stand up for those communities , villages and towns that have been left behind '' by the SNP . ''
The SNP , after 13 years in power , had `` produced slogans not policy '' and `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Mr Ross stressed .
DO N'T MISS : Sturgeon to FACE off with Boris today as tensions soar over indy [ LATEST ] Scotland gets £2,000 MORE per person than England [ REVEAL ] SNP admits motorists 'unlikely ' to be stopped by police despite ban [ INSIGHT ] Mr Ross said : `` People across Scotland are looking at the state of our country and hoping things can be different . ''
He also took a swipe at the Scottish Government for asking the UK Government for additional spending and revenue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ turned by the Treasury .
Mr Ross said : `` From 2007 to 2019 , the SNP Government 's budget increased by 16 percent but the grant they gave to councils increased by less than half of this , 7 percent , over the same period .
`` This matters , because it means money taken away from local services like schools , roads and housing . ''
Mr Ross also told the Scottish Conservative virtual conference that his party wanted to recruit 3,000 new teachers to improve education .
The party also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proven verdict in trials and bring in tougher sentences for those who assault emergency service workers .
Mr Ross promised a series of community investment deals for Scotland , which would `` build new partnerships between the UK and Scottish governments , councils and business to create good jobs '' .
The Tory MP , who is hoping to return to Holyrood after the 2021 Scottish elections , insisted his party could represent the whole of the country .
He also noted that some in Ms Sturgeon 's party had said that a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ early as next year '' , despite `` everything we have gone through and are still going through '' as a result of COVID-19 .
Criticising the SNP , he added : `` They want Scottish politics to go back to the same old , worn-out arguments that we have been having for the last 13 years , to forget how we all pulled together in a time of crisis and focused on the things that really matter . ''
But he argued : `` Surely if ever there was a time to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to rethink our priorities , it is now . ''
With communities `` struggling '' after more than a decade of SNP rule , the new Scottish Tory leader vowed : `` Rebuilding our communities will be at the heart of my party 's agenda as we recover from this pandemic . ''
On the partnership offer , Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard , however , dismissed Mr Ross and said : `` In the week we learned that Boris Johnson and the Tories think devolution is a 'disaster ' , Douglas Ross @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this .
`` Boris Johnson and the Tories are the biggest threat to the future of the UK , and the biggest threat to everyone struggling as a result of their toxic policies .
`` Under my leadership , Scottish Labour will be working to oppose Tory policies - and certainly not helping deliver them . ''
Responding , SNP Depute Leader Keith Brown MSP , said : `` This was an astonishing exercise in the denial of reality .
In the fantasy world of the Scottish Tories , the past decade of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Douglas Ross also failed to recognise the unfolding disaster that is Brexit .
`` His party are wholly responsible for dragging Scotland out of the EU – against our democratically expressed wishes – in the midst of unprecedented health and economic crises .
“ Douglas Ross knows the union has failed Scotland and that ’ s why independence is becoming the settled will of the Scottish people .
`` While voters across Scotland continue to place their trust in the SNP to deliver in their interests , the Tories continue to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can not stand in the way of democracy and the right of the Scottish people to choose our own future .
”

Brexit: Douglas Ross says PM must ‘bring our country together’
Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross hinted his party could seek a coalition with Labour in a bid to oust the SNP from power at Holyrood. Mr Ross, who replaced Jackson Carlaw as party leader in August, said he would be willing to "work with anyone and everyone" to get Tory policies enacted.
Trending
The Scottish Conservatives won a record 31 MSPs in the 2016 Scottish elections which prevented a majority for the SNP at the Scottish Parliament. But the new leader claimed the party would be brought to "new heights in next year's Scottish Parliament election" which is expected to take place on May 6th. Speaking during the Scottish Conservative Conference, he stressed after being asked about a partnership with other parties: "I want to ensure that as many of the policies I am developing with my team right now can be enacted. "I want to work with anyone and everyone to deliver the policies that will improve our education, will ensure our justice system is far fairer on the victims rather than the criminals, on ensuring it produces the jobs that people in Scotland need right now and will definitely need as we continue to face the consequences of this global pandemic. "I will work with anyone and everyone on that issue."
Mr Ross says his party will ''stand up'' for communities ''left behind'' by SNP
Relations between Mr Ross and PM Boris Johnson have been strained recently
His comments came in an interview at the start of the Scottish Conservative conference, with the party leader stressing the increasing presence of Scottish nationalism was much a bigger threat to the UK than socialism. He stressed the SNP "want to separate Scotland from the rest of the United Kingdom", making he stressed made the NATS, "absolutely a greater threat." He added of the party: "They want to tear us apart from our friends, our family and our colleagues in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. "This is a union that has delivered so much in the last 300 years, the most powerful economic and political union the world has seen. This is a union that delivers in times of crisis and in normal times as well. "This is a union I am passionate about. READ MORE: Boris tears apart SNP record in Scotland – lists THREE worst areas
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Mr Ross has said he would consider working with Labour if his party is elected to Government
"This is a union that two million Scots voted to remain part of just six years ago, this is a union that can continue to deliver for Scotland and Scotland can continue to benefit from being part of." During a later speech, Mr Ross branded the SNP led Scottish Government a “false friend to devolution” claiming the Government should help Scotland's 32 councils. As he outlined his vision for Scotland, he claimed his party would bring forward laws to ensure local authorities get a fair share of public funds as part of a new funding deal.
He stressed this was part of a commitment to "stand up for those communities, villages and towns that have been left behind" by the SNP." The SNP, after 13 years in power, had "produced slogans not policy" and "divided communities rather than empowered people", Mr Ross stressed. DON'T MISS:
Sturgeon to FACE off with Boris today as tensions soar over indy [LATEST]
Scotland gets £2,000 MORE per person than England [REVEAL]
SNP admits motorists 'unlikely' to be stopped by police despite ban [INSIGHT]
Will independence dreams be crushed if SNP loses the election in May?
Mr Ross said: "People across Scotland are looking at the state of our country and hoping things can be different." He also took a swipe at the Scottish Government for asking the UK Government for additional spending and revenue generation powers after these requests were repeatedly turned by the Treasury. Mr Ross said: "From 2007 to 2019, the SNP Government's budget increased by 16 percent but the grant they gave to councils increased by less than half of this, 7 percent, over the same period. "This matters, because it means money taken away from local services like schools, roads and housing." Mr Ross also told the Scottish Conservative virtual conference that his party wanted to recruit 3,000 new teachers to improve education.
Sturgeon ‘better communicator’ than PM says Douglas Ross
The party also vowed to scrap Scotland's controversial not proven verdict in trials and bring in tougher sentences for those who assault emergency service workers. Mr Ross promised a series of community investment deals for Scotland, which would "build new partnerships between the UK and Scottish governments, councils and business to create good jobs". The Tory MP, who is hoping to return to Holyrood after the 2021 Scottish elections, insisted his party could represent the whole of the country. He also noted that some in Ms Sturgeon's party had said that a second independence referendum "could happen as early as next year", despite "everything we have gone through and are still going through" as a result of COVID-19. Criticising the SNP, he added: "They want Scottish politics to go back to the same old, worn-out arguments that we have been having for the last 13 years, to forget how we all pulled together in a time of crisis and focused on the things that really matter."
Douglas Ross is also a football referee


thedailyexpress--2020-11-21--Boris Johnson's private WhatsApps LEAKED: PM issues strict order to MPs over Priti Patel

The revelation comes amid claims the Prime Minister tried to persuade Sir Alex Allan to tone down his conclusion amounted to bullying - with Sir Alex resigning in the wake of Mr Johnson 's decision not to act following the publication of his report .
Mr Johnson told Conservative MPs in a private WhatsApp group it was time to `` form a square around the prittster '' .
Sir Alex had been asked to investigate after claims Ms Patel belittled officials in meetings , made unreasonable demands and created an “ atmosphere of fear ” .
His report said she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ standards required by the ministerial code '' , though he said there was `` no evidence that she was aware of the impact of her behaviour '' .
However , one government source said that after reading the report Mr Johnson had been `` very clear he wanted to stand by her '' .
He then called Sir Alex to ask him to tone down his findings by stressing there was were no clear examples of bullying at the Home Office which breached the Ministerial Code .
A Cabinet Source said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t think Alex ’ s findings accorded with the evidence itself .
`` He spoke to Alex and asked him if he ’ d change the tone of it .
Alex said no . ''
JUST IN : Boris exposed 'conspiracy of silence ' on devolution 'false prosperity' Home Office permanent secretary Sir Philip Rutnam resigned after the revelations and is now suing for constructive dismissal .
A No 10 spokesman said : `` As you would expect , the prime minister spoke to Sir Alex Allan to further his understanding of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s conclusions are entirely his own . ''
Addressing the report 's findings , Ms Patel said : `` I 'm sorry that my behaviour has upset people and I 've never intentionally set out to upset anyone . ''
DO N'T MISS Immigration reforms finally signed into law , declares Priti Patel [ REVEALED ] Priti Patel tells police chiefs they MUST defend freedom of speech [ INSIGHT ] 'Ludicrous !
Latest figures show absurd amount of money spent [ FIGURES ] She also insisted the issues had not been pointed out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ released a statement through the FDA union for civil servants saying that he was `` at no stage asked to contribute evidence '' to the investigation .
He added : `` The advice states that no feedback was given to the Home Secretary and that she was therefore unaware of issues that she might otherwise have addressed .
This is not correct .
`` As early as August 2019 , the month after her appointment , she was advised that she must not shout and swear at staff .
`` I advised her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ September 2019 and February 2020 about the need to treat staff with respect and to make changes to protect health , safety and wellbeing . ''
After the publication of the report , former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith tweeted : `` I ’ ve worked with @ pritipatel for a number of years & always found her to be strong , robust & determined to get the job done , she ’ s a hard working & good Home Secretary .
`` There is a history of poor civil service leadership at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ critical of that . ''
Speaking to Express.co.uk at the House of Commons earlier this year , Mr Duncan-Smith said of the bullying allegations : `` It ’ s completely ridiculous really .
`` Civil servants , many of whom I ’ ve worked with , are brilliant , excellent people who get on with it and don ’ t get involved in this nonsense .
`` But there are some who have decided for whatever reason they want to make life difficult for her and that ’ s nonsense .
`` And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up , we ’ ve had enough of this .
He said : `` There needs to be a recognition from her and the Prime Minister that she was found to have bullied staff , possibly in three departments not just the Home Office , and that is completely unacceptable .
`` The Prime Minister has simply put aside the findings of a report , and of the independent adviser Sir Alex Allan , that she is a bully and you should n't have bullies in government .
`` We have to put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
No one has spoken up for them , some of them are junior staff and who will be sitting there today thinking that their voice has not been heard and you can not rely on the Prime Minister to stand up for them .
`` For the first time as far as I can remember we have a prime minister that does n't seem willing to stand up for high standards in public life . ''

Priti Patel: I am sorry if my behaviour has upset people
The revelation comes amid claims the Prime Minister tried to persuade Sir Alex Allan to tone down his conclusion amounted to bullying - with Sir Alex resigning in the wake of Mr Johnson's decision not to act following the publication of his report. Mr Johnson told Conservative MPs in a private WhatsApp group it was time to "form a square around the prittster".
Trending
Sir Alex had been asked to investigate after claims Ms Patel belittled officials in meetings, made unreasonable demands and created an “atmosphere of fear”. His report said she had "not consistently met the high standards required by the ministerial code", though he said there was "no evidence that she was aware of the impact of her behaviour". However, one government source said that after reading the report Mr Johnson had been "very clear he wanted to stand by her".
Boris Johnson has ordered Tory MPs to
Home Secretary Priti Patel
He then called Sir Alex to ask him to tone down his findings by stressing there was were no clear examples of bullying at the Home Office which breached the Ministerial Code. A Cabinet Source said: "He read all of it and didn’t think Alex’s findings accorded with the evidence itself. "He spoke to Alex and asked him if he’d change the tone of it. Alex said no." JUST IN: Boris exposed 'conspiracy of silence' on devolution 'false prosperity'
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Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer says he would have sacked Ms Patel
Home Office permanent secretary Sir Philip Rutnam resigned after the revelations and is now suing for constructive dismissal. A No 10 spokesman said: "As you would expect, the prime minister spoke to Sir Alex Allan to further his understanding of the issues. "Sir Alex’s conclusions are entirely his own." Addressing the report's findings, Ms Patel said: "I'm sorry that my behaviour has upset people and I've never intentionally set out to upset anyone." DON'T MISS
Immigration reforms finally signed into law, declares Priti Patel [REVEALED]
Priti Patel tells police chiefs they MUST defend freedom of speech [INSIGHT]
'Ludicrous! Latest figures show absurd amount of money spent [FIGURES]
Boris Johnson and Priti Patel in the House of Commons
Priti Patel: Alex Allan resigns after PM backs Home Secretary
She also insisted the issues had not been pointed out to her - although Sir Philip subsquently released a statement through the FDA union for civil servants saying that he was "at no stage asked to contribute evidence" to the investigation. He added: "The advice states that no feedback was given to the Home Secretary and that she was therefore unaware of issues that she might otherwise have addressed. This is not correct. "As early as August 2019, the month after her appointment, she was advised that she must not shout and swear at staff.
Iain Duncan Smith mounted a staunch defence of Ms Patel
"I advised her on a number of further occasions between September 2019 and February 2020 about the need to treat staff with respect and to make changes to protect health, safety and wellbeing." After the publication of the report, former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith tweeted: "I’ve worked with @pritipatel for a number of years & always found her to be strong, robust & determined to get the job done, she’s a hard working & good Home Secretary. "There is a history of poor civil service leadership at the Home Office & the report is critical of that." Speaking to Express.co.uk at the House of Commons earlier this year, Mr Duncan-Smith said of the bullying allegations: "It’s completely ridiculous really.
Iain Duncan Smith's tweet
"Civil servants, many of whom I’ve worked with, are brilliant, excellent people who get on with it and don’t get involved in this nonsense. "But there are some who have decided for whatever reason they want to make life difficult for her and that’s nonsense. "And the good ones will tell them shut up, we’ve had enough of this.
Priti Patel factfile
"It gives a bad reputation to the civil service. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has said were he in Mr Johnson's place he would have sacked Ms Patel. He added: "It is hard to imagine another workplace in the UK where this behaviour would be condoned by those at the top." Former Home Office permanent secretary Sir David Normington criticised Mr Johnson on BBC Radio 4's flagship Today programme this morning.
Sir Philip Rutnam


thedailyexpress--2020-11-22--'Boris incompetent in dealing with Barnier!' Britons fury at EU's last minute shackles

The EU ’ s Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier has sparked anger after he issued a stunning demand to negotiate fishing quotas every ten years , meaning Britain would remain shackled to the EU despite voting to leave the bloc four years ago .
But Britons hit back , saying it was time to “ shut the door ” on Brexit talks and tell Mr Barnier to “ get on his bike ” .
They also accused Mr Frost and Mr Johnson of “ incompetence ” and warned the pair not to back down against “ blackmail , coercion and bullying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to look like Boris and Frost are incompetent in dealing with Barnier they should have told him to get on his bike I can see both of them rolling over to get a deal .
“ I ’ m bloody fed up of hearing this week in and out time to shut the door.
” An Express.co.uk reader added : “ The UK should walk away from the fake trade negotiations on the 2nd December 2020 and revoke the Theresa May 's - EU Withdrawal Agreement - on the grounds of bad faith @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Boris if you do any such think like giving the EU 10 year timelines to negotiate fishing access to British waters you will be burned at the stake .
“ You warned the EU that we would leave on WTO terms if they did not change their stance and unreasonable demands .
READ MORE : Brexit LIVE : Rishi Sunak promises to walk away with no deal “ YOU OWE IT TO THE BRITISH PEOPLE TO WALK AWAY FROM THIS SO CALLED NEGOTIATION NOW.
” One posted : “ Boris Johnson , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is not a Churchillian leader , He sets deadlines and , just as we are told the EU is about to cave in , he gives another extension allowing the 'enemy ' a chance to regroup and review its strategy .
“ It seems he is desperate for a deal despite telling us WTO / Australian terms are fine .
Is he in the pocket of some top Tory supporters.
” As Brexit talks go down to the wire , Brussels bosses have demanded fishing quotas be reviewed after ten years which will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This means the two sides could be set to clash over quotes in 2030 if Mr Barnier gets his wish .
The UK has pushed for annual negotiations on fishing quotas like it has in place with Norway , now Britain is an independent coastal nation .

Brexit: Fishing water control 'is international law' says Eustice
The EU’s Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier has sparked anger after he issued a stunning demand to negotiate fishing quotas every ten years, meaning Britain would remain shackled to the EU despite voting to leave the bloc four years ago. But Britons hit back, saying it was time to “shut the door” on Brexit talks and tell Mr Barnier to “get on his bike”.
Trending
They also accused Mr Frost and Mr Johnson of “incompetence” and warned the pair not to back down against “blackmail, coercion and bullying”. One said: “Starting to look like Boris and Frost are incompetent in dealing with Barnier they should have told him to get on his bike I can see both of them rolling over to get a deal. “I’m bloody fed up of hearing this week in and out time to shut the door.”
Boris Johnson has been accused of 'incompetence' when dealing with Michel Barnier
Tense arguments between both sides remain over fishing rights during Brexit talks
An Express.co.uk reader added: “The UK should walk away from the fake trade negotiations on the 2nd December 2020 and revoke the Theresa May's - EU Withdrawal Agreement - on the grounds of bad faith by the EU. “We need a fresh start.” Another said: “Boris if you do any such think like giving the EU 10 year timelines to negotiate fishing access to British waters you will be burned at the stake. “You warned the EU that we would leave on WTO terms if they did not change their stance and unreasonable demands. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: Rishi Sunak promises to walk away with no deal
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European fishing vessels fish six times as much in UK waters as British vessels do in EU waters
Brussels bosses have demanded fishing quotas be reviewed after ten years which will be tied to the overall agreement
The UK has pushed for annual negotiations on fishing quotas like it has in place with Norway
“YOU OWE IT TO THE BRITISH PEOPLE TO WALK AWAY FROM THIS SO CALLED NEGOTIATION NOW.” One posted: “Boris Johnson, unfortunately, is giving the impression he is not a Churchillian leader, He sets deadlines and, just as we are told the EU is about to cave in, he gives another extension allowing the 'enemy' a chance to regroup and review its strategy. “It seems he is desperate for a deal despite telling us WTO / Australian terms are fine. Is he in the pocket of some top Tory supporters.” As Brexit talks go down to the wire, Brussels bosses have demanded fishing quotas be reviewed after ten years which will be tied to the overall agreement.
EU countries most reliant on UK fishing waters
This means the two sides could be set to clash over quotes in 2030 if Mr Barnier gets his wish. The UK has pushed for annual negotiations on fishing quotas like it has in place with Norway, now Britain is an independent coastal nation. But Express.co.uk readers mocked the Brussels club’s demands.


thedailyexpress--2020-11-22--EU BLUNDER: UK taxpayers cash hit by Brussels 'error' – billions lost or misspent

In a damning annual report , the European Court of Auditors warned funds dished out by Brussels may have been misspent , squandered or lost to corruption .
The Luxembourg-based watchdog refused to give the 2019 EU budget a clean bill of health , warning it was plagued by widespread problems .
Auditors issued an “ adverse opinion ” on the EU ’ s spending and branded more than half of last year ’ s EU £142 billion expenditure as “ high-risk ” .
Their report concluded : “ The effects of the errors we found are therefore both material @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the year.
” In 2019 , Britain sent a staggering £15.8 billion to Brussels , according to the latest data published by the Office for National Statistics .
The report 's authors conceded that EU funding is impossible to track once paid out to governments , because `` these funds then merge with that country 's own budget resources '' .
The watchdog also admitted the coronavirus pandemic had hampered its work in checking Brussels ' accounts .
They criticised eurocrats for forking out public money on footpaths in Portugal , a waste @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for staff at a university in Spain .
Auditors found agriculture spending worth £53 billion , the EU 's largest annual outlay , was dogged by `` irregular spending related to the presentation of false , incorrect or incomplete declarations , to potential conflicts of interest , and to suspected creation of artificial conditions . ''
In one Hungarian case aid was used for the construction of a `` storage facility for cereals '' after funds were dished out to build a store for animal food .
And in Belgium , EU cash @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shelter for `` endangered species '' but aerial photos later found the habits had been destroyed .
The £48 billion development budget was also plagued with findings of `` ineligible projects '' and `` serious non-compliance with public procurement rules '' .
One EU-funded contract in Romania was handed out to a firm without the necessary experience to carry out the `` landfill rehabilitation project '' .
Auditors said the 64 `` quantifiable errors '' they found last year cost the bloc 's budget almost £300 million .
The watchdog urged the European @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carry out probes of member states ' `` fraud prevention measures '' .
MUST READ : Brexit done in 72 hours : Adler hints Brexit will be done 'in days' While not all the irregularities identified by the EU auditors were classed as fraud , they set an error rate at 2.7 percent , or £3 billion of payments .
Their `` material '' error warning signals a serious misuse of taxpayers ' money .
Britain continues to pay into the EU ’ s budget coffers for the transition period agreed as part @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal .
Downing Street has vowed to stop sending vast sums of money to the bloc after the end of the year .
DO N'T MISS France refuses to budge over Brexit fishing row as time runs out [ INSIGHT ] Tory MP hits out at Boris for 'weakening UK 's negotiating position ' [ REVEALED ] Brexit LIVE : Rishi Sunak promises to walk away with no deal [ UPDATES ]

Brexit deal will be done ‘in next days’ says Katya Adler
In a damning annual report, the European Court of Auditors warned funds dished out by Brussels may have been misspent, squandered or lost to corruption. The Luxembourg-based watchdog refused to give the 2019 EU budget a clean bill of health, warning it was plagued by widespread problems. Auditors issued an “adverse opinion” on the EU’s spending and branded more than half of last year’s EU £142 billion expenditure as “high-risk”.
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Their report concluded: “The effects of the errors we found are therefore both material and pervasive to the accepted expenditure of the year.” In 2019, Britain sent a staggering £15.8 billion to Brussels, according to the latest data published by the Office for National Statistics. The report's authors conceded that EU funding is impossible to track once paid out to governments, because "these funds then merge with that country's own budget resources". The watchdog also admitted the coronavirus pandemic had hampered its work in checking Brussels' accounts.
Billions of pounds of UK taxpayers' cash could've misspent by Brussels, report finds
The European Commission oversees EU spending
They criticised eurocrats for forking out public money on footpaths in Portugal, a waste management scheme in Togo and subsidised contracts for staff at a university in Spain. Auditors found agriculture spending worth £53 billion, the EU's largest annual outlay, was dogged by "irregular spending related to the presentation of false, incorrect or incomplete declarations, to potential conflicts of interest, and to suspected creation of artificial conditions." In one Hungarian case aid was used for the construction of a "storage facility for cereals" after funds were dished out to build a store for animal food. And in Belgium, EU cash was given to a farmer to provide shelter for "endangered species" but aerial photos later found the habits had been destroyed.
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EU agriculture spending makes up most of the bloc's budget expenditure
The £48 billion development budget was also plagued with findings of "ineligible projects" and "serious non-compliance with public procurement rules". One EU-funded contract in Romania was handed out to a firm without the necessary experience to carry out the "landfill rehabilitation project". Auditors said the 64 "quantifiable errors" they found last year cost the bloc's budget almost £300 million. The watchdog urged the European Commission to review its anti-fraud measures and carry out probes of member states' "fraud prevention measures". MUST READ: Brexit done in 72 hours: Adler hints Brexit will be done 'in days'
Boris Johnson has vowed to stop sending vast sums of cash to Brussels
While not all the irregularities identified by the EU auditors were classed as fraud, they set an error rate at 2.7 percent, or £3 billion of payments. Their "material" error warning signals a serious misuse of taxpayers' money. Britain continues to pay into the EU’s budget coffers for the transition period agreed as part of last year’s Brexit divorce deal. Downing Street has vowed to stop sending vast sums of money to the bloc after the end of the year. DON'T MISS
France refuses to budge over Brexit fishing row as time runs out [INSIGHT]
Tory MP hits out at Boris for 'weakening UK's negotiating position' [REVEALED]
Brexit LIVE: Rishi Sunak promises to walk away with no deal [UPDATES]
Boris Johnson is a ‘reluctant Brexiteer’ says Ben Habib


thedailyexpress--2020-11-22--BBC BIAS: Beeb impartiality warning for 'beaming Sturgeon into living rooms everyday'

The briefings are shown some days on BBC One Scotland and the BBC Scotland channel with some coverage also included as part of BBC Radio Scotland 's Lunchtime Live programme .
However , Douglas Ross , the Scottish Conservative leader warned there could be a point coming when the BBC may be in breach of its Charter commitment to impartiality if the regular coverage of briefings proceeds as present .
Mr Ross stressed the BBC should cover Ms Sturgeon ’ s briefings as they share vital public health information but made clear they should be made in the Scottish Parliament @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said , allows the policies to be challenged and scrutinised by opposition MSPs , adding : `` Sadly , we 've got to assume this virus is going to be with us for some time . ''
Referring to the elections next May , he stressed : `` What happens when Holyrood rises for the elections ?
“ What happens when we 're in a purdah period ?
`` I think that the BBC must now be thinking in the weeks and months ahead what are they going to do , because there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ despite everything they 've said to date , things do change during an election period .
`` We live in a democracy where governments govern better where they are held to account and it 's very difficult to hold the Scottish Government to account when a lot of the key policy announcements they make are not made in front of politicians but are made on TV and beamed into the living rooms every day . ''
It comes after Mr Ross said he had received complaints which expressed concerns the BBC Charter was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ September it would reduce its live broadcast of the daily COVID-19 announcements from the Scottish Government .
Going forward , BBC said it would base its coverage on `` editorial merit '' while continuing to stream them online .
The decision sparked much confusion amongst viewers who were left unsure as to where the programme would be shown each day .
READ MORE : SNP failed to consult Brussels over plot to keep Scotland tied to EU But new BBC Scotland director Steve Carson stressed BBC Scotland never intended to stop coverage of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was not explained well enough to viewers , adding : `` I do regret , and I agree , that for a period of days people were incredibly confused as to what they thought the BBC were doing . ''
Mr Carson told Holyrood ’ s Culture Committee the BBC had a legal obligation to due impartiality and the original decision intended to make clear coverage of the briefings was not as a result of any `` directive '' .
It has also been claimed the BBC has also `` snubbing '' Holyrood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a key Sunday programme .
Sunday Politics Scotland , part of the Politics Live session of programmes is typically broadcast every Sunday at 10am and typically shows the UK political stories of the day with interviews with Government ministers from the Scottish and UK governments .
DO N'T MISS : Sunak issues swipe at SNP as he praises UK 'strength ' [ LATEST ] Boris tears apart SNP record in Scotland – lists THREE worst areas [ INSIGHT ] Scottish Tories hatch plot to oust Nicola Sturgeon and SNP from power [ REVEAL @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who also hosted Newsnight Scotland but is stepping down along with news anchors Bill Whiteford and Isabel Fraser as the corporation looks to save £6.2 million in Scotland .
However , an MSP questioned why it hasn ’ t been broadcasting whilst Westminster was in recess but Holyrood was in session .
Speaking at Holyrood ’ s Culture Committee , MSP Kenneth Gibson also stressed why the corporation asked why the programme followed the Westminster calendar rather than that of Holyrood .
The SNP MSP for Cunninghame North , who is married @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ayrshire and Arran , added : “ Why does the BBC consider coverage of Westminster to be the priority rather than coverage of the Scottish Parliament ?
“ My wife is an MP , so I am pretty clued up on those things .
“ I know that when she is in recess , [ Politics Scotland ] is not on , regardless of whether Holyrood meets .
“ I raised that issue a year ago and was told then that it would be looked into , but it has not been .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ huge amount of Westminster coverage from the UK service , I do not understand why scheduling of a programme that is produced in Scotland is not more focused on Holyrood.
” TV listings for the period Westminster was in recess over the summer revealed Sunday Politics Scotland didn ’ t start broadcasting until Sunday 13th September .
This date was almost one month after Holyrood had returned from its summer recess on August 10th and only two weeks after Westminster on September 1st During the Summer , Sunday Politics Scotland also continued to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scottish Parliament ’ s summer recess between June 27th and August 9th whilst Westminster was still sitting .
However , responding to the claim , Steve Carson , who replaced Donalda MacKinnon as director of BBC Scotland last month , said : “ I am not sure that I take that as a fact ; let me look into it .
“ We look at the level of “ Politics Scotland ” coverage regularly .
Across this year , there has been a huge explosion.
” A BBC spokesperson , said in response @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Westminster timetable , along with BBC Wales and Northern Ireland , because it ’ s part of a UK-wide programme brand and has a slot in the BBC One schedule . ''
The corporation , however , stressed they have a Wednesday edition of Politics Scotland which follows the Holyrood timetable and a programme on Thursdays which covers First Minister ’ s Questions .
Of the daily briefings , BBC Scotland , added : “ We follow a similar approach to coverage across the UK , with briefings from the Welsh Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and briefings from the UK Government shown on BBC TV across the UK .
`` So far this week , there have been two Scottish Government briefings shown on television in Scotland – just as there have been two Welsh Government briefings aired on TV in Wales .
Coverage of the briefings is made on the basis of editorial judgment and listening to our audiences . ''

Nicola Sturgeon: ‘Believe me’ COVID restrictions are ‘essential’
The briefings are shown some days on BBC One Scotland and the BBC Scotland channel with some coverage also included as part of BBC Radio Scotland's Lunchtime Live programme. However, Douglas Ross, the Scottish Conservative leader warned there could be a point coming when the BBC may be in breach of its Charter commitment to impartiality if the regular coverage of briefings proceeds as present.
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Mr Ross stressed the BBC should cover Ms Sturgeon’s briefings as they share vital public health information but made clear they should be made in the Scottish Parliament. This method, the Moray MP said, allows the policies to be challenged and scrutinised by opposition MSPs, adding: "Sadly, we've got to assume this virus is going to be with us for some time." Referring to the elections next May, he stressed: "What happens when Holyrood rises for the elections? “What happens when we're in a purdah period? "I think that the BBC must now be thinking in the weeks and months ahead what are they going to do, because there is a crucial point coming that, despite everything they've said to date, things do change during an election period."
Nicola Sturgeon currently delivers at least three briefings a week
Douglas Ross, leader of the Scottish Tories
He added to The Telegraph: "We live in a democracy where governments govern better where they are held to account and it's very difficult to hold the Scottish Government to account when a lot of the key policy announcements they make are not made in front of politicians but are made on TV and beamed into the living rooms every day." It comes after Mr Ross said he had received complaints which expressed concerns the BBC Charter was being breached. The BBC announced in September it would reduce its live broadcast of the daily COVID-19 announcements from the Scottish Government. Going forward, BBC said it would base its coverage on "editorial merit" while continuing to stream them online. The decision sparked much confusion amongst viewers who were left unsure as to where the programme would be shown each day. READ MORE: SNP failed to consult Brussels over plot to keep Scotland tied to EU
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The briefings take place at 12:15pm
But new BBC Scotland director Steve Carson stressed BBC Scotland never intended to stop coverage of the briefings. He admitted the situation was not explained well enough to viewers, adding: "I do regret, and I agree, that for a period of days people were incredibly confused as to what they thought the BBC were doing." Mr Carson told Holyrood’s Culture Committee the BBC had a legal obligation to due impartiality and the original decision intended to make clear coverage of the briefings was not as a result of any "directive". It has also been claimed the BBC has also "snubbing" Holyrood when it comes to political coverage in a key Sunday programme. Sunday Politics Scotland, part of the Politics Live session of programmes is typically broadcast every Sunday at 10am and typically shows the UK political stories of the day with interviews with Government ministers from the Scottish and UK governments. DON'T MISS:
Sunak issues swipe at SNP as he praises UK 'strength' [LATEST]
Boris tears apart SNP record in Scotland – lists THREE worst areas [INSIGHT]
Scottish Tories hatch plot to oust Nicola Sturgeon and SNP from power [REVEAL]
The Scottish Government have been keen to update everyone daily on COVID-19
It is presented by Gordon Brewer, who also hosted Newsnight Scotland but is stepping down along with news anchors Bill Whiteford and Isabel Fraser as the corporation looks to save £6.2 million in Scotland. However, an MSP questioned why it hasn’t been broadcasting whilst Westminster was in recess but Holyrood was in session. Speaking at Holyrood’s Culture Committee, MSP Kenneth Gibson also stressed why the corporation asked why the programme followed the Westminster calendar rather than that of Holyrood. The SNP MSP for Cunninghame North, who is married to Patricia Gibson, MP for North Ayrshire and Arran, added: “Why does the BBC consider coverage of Westminster to be the priority rather than coverage of the Scottish Parliament? “My wife is an MP, so I am pretty clued up on those things.
BBC Scotland
“I know that when she is in recess, [Politics Scotland] is not on, regardless of whether Holyrood meets. “I raised that issue a year ago and was told then that it would be looked into, but it has not been. “Given that we already get a huge amount of Westminster coverage from the UK service, I do not understand why scheduling of a programme that is produced in Scotland is not more focused on Holyrood.” TV listings for the period Westminster was in recess over the summer revealed Sunday Politics Scotland didn’t start broadcasting until Sunday 13th September. This date was almost one month after Holyrood had returned from its summer recess on August 10th and only two weeks after Westminster on September 1st
Scotland: Kate Forbes grilled on unity with UK by BBC host


thedailyexpress--2020-11-22--John Redwood brilliantly dismantles Blair and Cameron's £15bn foreign aid 'lecture'

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Sir John Redwood ridiculed David Cameron and Tony Blair after the two former prime ministers warned against cutting the foreign aid budget .
The Government is considering reducing its foreign aid target from 0.7 percent to 0.5 percent , which would save around £4bn this year .
The controversial proposal to cut the budget has been criticised by former prime ministers Tony Blair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mistake ” .
Sir John questioned why the two senior figures were not `` lecturing the EU '' since Brussels contributes far less to foreign aid than the UK .
He argued that at a time of financial crisis , `` no part of government can be exempt from questions about whether it is offering value for money '' .
The Tory MP pointed out that before Brexit , the only two budgets that could not be reduced were foreign aid and the EU contributions .
Speaking to LBC , Sir John explained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ why are they not criticising the EU ? ''
JUST IN : Should foreign aid be cut to pay UK 's huge coronavirus bill ?
VOTE HERE

Foreign aid: Redwood criticises Blair and Cameron’s warning
Sir John Redwood ridiculed David Cameron and Tony Blair after the two former prime ministers warned against cutting the foreign aid budget. The Government is considering reducing its foreign aid target from 0.7 percent to 0.5 percent, which would save around £4bn this year. The controversial proposal to cut the budget has been criticised by former prime ministers Tony Blair and David Cameron as a “strategic mistake”.
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Sir John questioned why the two senior figures were not "lecturing the EU" since Brussels contributes far less to foreign aid than the UK. He argued that at a time of financial crisis, "no part of government can be exempt from questions about whether it is offering value for money". The Tory MP pointed out that before Brexit, the only two budgets that could not be reduced were foreign aid and the EU contributions. Speaking to LBC, Sir John explained: "My response to them is why are they not criticising the EU?" JUST IN: Should foreign aid be cut to pay UK's huge coronavirus bill? VOTE HERE
Sir John Redwood ridiculed David Cameron and Tony Blair
The controversial proposal to cut the budget has been criticised by former prime ministers Tony Blair and David Cameron
He added: "Because last year, excluding the UK, the EU member-states only managed to contribute 0.42% of their GDP to their overseas aid budget, compared to 0.7% for Britain. "Blair and Cameron normally think the EU is wonderful and agree with all its works. "Why aren't they lecturing the EU to get up to our level? "Or why don't they say to us, we should be at the same level as the EU?"
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Sir John questioned why the two senior political figures were not 'lecturing the EU'
GMB: Susanna Reid grills Ben Wallace over UK foreign aid
The former prime ministers warned Boris Johnson that cutting the UK's overseas aid budget would undermine the UK's G7 presidency next year


thedailyexpress--2020-11-22--Brilliant moment Rishi Sunak fact-checks Andrew Marr using BBC's OWN figures against him

Rishi Sunak `` took issue '' with Andrew Marr 's facts in the middle of his interview , and used the BBC 's own evidence to prove his point .
The Chancellor was being confronted over the three million people who have reportedly been excluded from his self-employment coronavirus support schemes .
He explained why the number of people may not be as large as claimed .
Mr Sunak said : `` Take a step back , I think our support for the self-employed has been more comprehensive and generous than almost any other country in the world .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the idea that three million people have been excluded , as you say .
`` I think actually your BBC Reality Fact-Check thing looked at this .
`` They found that the largest number of those people are actually people who are not majority self-employed , which means they make more money from employment rather than self-employment . ''
Mr Marr cited the Institute for Fiscal Studies , who say that seven out of eight workers do n't qualify for the £500 payment for self-isolation .
The Chancellor shot back : `` That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talk about the self-employment issue .
`` Of the three million people , the majortiy of those who you said are excluded are not .
It 's just that they 're not majority self-employed .
`` The IFS , as you 've said , thinks it should be targeted .
That 's one way of targeting that support on those who predominantly make their earnings on self-employment .
Of those there are around 1.5 million people who do n't make the majority of their income from employment . ''
BBC Reality Check had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three million figure , which was also referred to by Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer , appears to comes from a group called Excluded UK , which provides a breakdown of the figure .
`` The biggest group they cite is the 1.175 million people who earn less than 50 percent of their income from self-employment and so are not eligible for the support provided for the self-employed .
`` But it means that group receives at least half of their income from working as an employee , and that work would make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from government schemes such as the furlough scheme . ''
DO N'T MISS Ruth Davidson warns Sturgeon tier order will be 'hammer blow ' to Scots [ WARNING ] Commons in coronavirus scare as cleaners in HAZMATS enter chamber [ VIDEO ] Coronavirus warning : WHO on alert amid 'extremely concerning surge ' [ INSIGHT ]

Rishi Sunak uses BBC figures to challenge Andrew Marr
Rishi Sunak "took issue" with Andrew Marr's facts in the middle of his interview, and used the BBC's own evidence to prove his point. The Chancellor was being confronted over the three million people who have reportedly been excluded from his self-employment coronavirus support schemes. He explained why the number of people may not be as large as claimed.
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Mr Sunak said: "Take a step back, I think our support for the self-employed has been more comprehensive and generous than almost any other country in the world. "I probably would slightly take issue with the idea that three million people have been excluded, as you say. "I think actually your BBC Reality Fact-Check thing looked at this. "They found that the largest number of those people are actually people who are not majority self-employed, which means they make more money from employment rather than self-employment." READ MORE: Universal Credit: Sunak hints at extending £20 boost past April 2021
Rishi Sunak fact-checks Andrew Marr using BBC's own figures on self-employed exclusion
'I probably would slightly take issue with the idea that three million people have been excluded.'
Mr Marr cited the Institute for Fiscal Studies, who say that seven out of eight workers don't qualify for the £500 payment for self-isolation. The Chancellor shot back: "That's something different but let's just talk about the self-employment issue. "Of the three million people, the majortiy of those who you said are excluded are not. It's just that they're not majority self-employed. "The IFS, as you've said, thinks it should be targeted. That's one way of targeting that support on those who predominantly make their earnings on self-employment. Of those there are around 1.5 million people who don't make the majority of their income from employment."
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'Of the three million people, the majortiy of those who you said are excluded are not.'
Martin Lewis advises on third Self Employment Scheme grant
BBC Reality Check had written about the claim: "The three million figure, which was also referred to by Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, appears to comes from a group called Excluded UK, which provides a breakdown of the figure. "The biggest group they cite is the 1.175 million people who earn less than 50 percent of their income from self-employment and so are not eligible for the support provided for the self-employed. "But it means that group receives at least half of their income from working as an employee, and that work would make some of them potentially eligible for support from government schemes such as the furlough scheme." DON'T MISS
Ruth Davidson warns Sturgeon tier order will be 'hammer blow' to Scots [WARNING]
Commons in coronavirus scare as cleaners in HAZMATS enter chamber [VIDEO]
Coronavirus warning: WHO on alert amid 'extremely concerning surge' [INSIGHT]
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