thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--Boris sends warning to Macron as UK prepares Royal Navy fleet to enforce ban on EU boats

Boris Johnson has sent a warning to his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron after France threw the Brexit talks into chaos by hardening the EU 's fishing demands at the last minute .
In response , Environment Secretary George Eustice announced that the capacity of the Royal Navy fisheries protection fleet has been increased to police British waters .
He said that this increase will `` stop EU boats coming in to fish '' amid in case an agreement is not reached with the EU .
Speaking to LBC , Mr Eustice was questioned by host Tom Swarbrick on the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fleets in case of a no deal .
Mr Eustice said : `` We have a fisheries protection fleet as part of the Royal Navy - the oldest part of it .
`` We also have a control centre in Newcastle that monitors every fishing vessel that is in our waters . ''
Mr Swarbrick responded : `` Have they been boosted ?
Have they got more numbers , and extra staff in case of a no deal ? ''
JUST IN : Labour accused of wanting Boris to surrender to EU 'at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Yes , we have taken on two additional vessels to supplement the work that the Royal Navy do to increase capacity .
`` It 's also the case the Navy have just put forward three new off-shore patrol vessels and have decided not to decommission the old ones at this point so there are some reserve capacity to draw on.
`` The LBC host asked whether the increase was related to the fears that French fishermen will ignore a no deal Brexit and still attempt to fish in British waters .
Mr Swarbrick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ patrols the waters to stop the boats coming in to fish if we go to no deal ? ''
The cabinet minister explained : `` That 's always been the case .
Supplemented of course by the private contractors that we have .
`` It is the role of the marine management organisation to police our fisheries - something they have done for many years - and support the Royal Navy .
`` With support of others like the in-shore fisheries and conservation agencies that have vessels at their disposal . ''
Earlier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for throwing the talks into chaos after introducing `` a whole load of additional demands '' late in the negotiations this week .
'That 's not independence ! '
BBC 's Andrew Marr slams French MP over fish [ VIDEO ] Labour backlash : Gary Neville and Sophy Ridge savage Keir Starmer [ INTERVIEW ] Coronavirus vaccine POLL : Should Queen get priority access to jab ?
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Brexit: Eustice announces fisheries protection fleet has increased
Boris Johnson has sent a warning to his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron after France threw the Brexit talks into chaos by hardening the EU's fishing demands at the last minute. In response, Environment Secretary George Eustice announced that the capacity of the Royal Navy fisheries protection fleet has been increased to police British waters. He said that this increase will "stop EU boats coming in to fish" amid in case an agreement is not reached with the EU.
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Speaking to LBC, Mr Eustice was questioned by host Tom Swarbrick on the UK's plan to fend off EU fishing fleets in case of a no deal. Mr Eustice said: "We have a fisheries protection fleet as part of the Royal Navy - the oldest part of it. "We also have a control centre in Newcastle that monitors every fishing vessel that is in our waters." Mr Swarbrick responded: "Have they been boosted? Have they got more numbers, and extra staff in case of a no deal?" JUST IN: Labour accused of wanting Boris to surrender to EU 'at final hour'
Boris Johnson has sent a warning to his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron
George Eustice announced that the capacity of the Royal Navy fisheries protection fleet has been increased to police British waters
Mr Eustice said: "Yes, we have taken on two additional vessels to supplement the work that the Royal Navy do to increase capacity. "It's also the case the Navy have just put forward three new off-shore patrol vessels and have decided not to decommission the old ones at this point so there are some reserve capacity to draw on. " The LBC host asked whether the increase was related to the fears that French fishermen will ignore a no deal Brexit and still attempt to fish in British waters. Mr Swarbrick asked: "So, the Navy patrols the waters to stop the boats coming in to fish if we go to no deal?"
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Eustice blamed the EU for throwing the talks into chaos
Brexit: Fishermen’s Federation CEO says UK has had ‘bad deal’
The cabinet minister explained: "That's always been the case. Supplemented of course by the private contractors that we have. "It is the role of the marine management organisation to police our fisheries - something they have done for many years - and support the Royal Navy. "With support of others like the in-shore fisheries and conservation agencies that have vessels at their disposal." Earlier today, Mr Eustice blamed the EU for throwing the talks into chaos after introducing "a whole load of additional demands" late in the negotiations this week. DON'T MISS: 'That's not independence!' BBC's Andrew Marr slams French MP over fish [VIDEO]
Labour backlash: Gary Neville and Sophy Ridge savage Keir Starmer [INTERVIEW]
Coronavirus vaccine POLL: Should Queen get priority access to jab? [POLL]
There are fears that French fishermen will ignore a no deal Brexit and still attempt to fish


thedailyexpress--2020-12-06--'Choose no deal!' Boris told NOT to extend transition period to secure Brexit trade deal

UK negotiator Lord Frost and his EU counterpart Michel Barnier will return back to the negotiating table today in a final push to see if they can break the stalemate on trade negotiations .
The talks are scheduled to resume in Brussels after Mr Barnier has briefed a breakfast meeting of ambassadors from the 27 EU member states on the state of play .
EU negotiators are reported to be insisting on a `` ratchet clause '' under which the UK would face additional tariffs if it failed to mirror changes to EU rules on issues like environmental standards and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked between 7.56am and 11.18pm today whether they would support an extension to transition period in order to secure a deal .
Out of the 27,398 people who voted , a staggering 25,357 people ( 93 percent ) said no .
Only 1,918 people ( seven percent ) voted yes .
And 123 people ( zero percent ) said they were unsure .
Readers also shared they views on why the UK should stick to its original deadline .
One person said : `` No more extensions !
We 've had enough already @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal .
`` How many extensions has the EU and they 're still no better off ? ''
Another person claimed the EU was saying it did not want the UK to leave due not agreeing a deal .
They added : `` The EU had four years to secure a deal that wo n't ever happen- they do n't want a deal and they do n't want us to leave . ''
A third person said : `` Choose no deal ! ''
And a fourth simply added : `` Boris , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are toast ! ''
READ MORE : Boris tells EU to GET REAL : UK threatens to walk away from talks The UK denied reports from Brussels on Sunday that there had been a breakthrough on the issue of future fishing rights .
Reports suggested they had agreed to a transition period for phasing in changes for access for EU boats to UK waters of between five and seven years .
However a UK Government source said : `` There 's been no breakthrough on fish .
`` Nothing new has been achieved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MISS Boris sends warning to Macron as UK unleashes Royal Navy fleet [ PICTURES ] VDL aide accused of 'giving UK too much ' - Barnier reverses course [ REVEALED ] Brexit chaos : UK rubbishes claim of 'major breakthrough ' on fishing [ INSIGHT ] Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen will speak again on Monday evening , which will be their second call in just over 48 hours .
He said there appeared to be a `` very challenging issue '' still to be resolved over the `` level playing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He told RTE : `` My gut instinct is that it is 50-50 right now .
Things are on a knife edge and it is serious .

Brexit: Boris 'never properly read' WAB claims barrister
UK negotiator Lord Frost and his EU counterpart Michel Barnier will return back to the negotiating table today in a final push to see if they can break the stalemate on trade negotiations. The talks are scheduled to resume in Brussels after Mr Barnier has briefed a breakfast meeting of ambassadors from the 27 EU member states on the state of play. EU negotiators are reported to be insisting on a "ratchet clause" under which the UK would face additional tariffs if it failed to mirror changes to EU rules on issues like environmental standards and workers' rights.
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Express readers were asked between 7.56am and 11.18pm today whether they would support an extension to transition period in order to secure a deal. Out of the 27,398 people who voted, a staggering 25,357 people (93 percent) said no. Only 1,918 people (seven percent) voted yes. And 123 people (zero percent) said they were unsure. Readers also shared they views on why the UK should stick to its original deadline.
Boris Johnson has been warned not to extend the Brexit transition period
Express.co.uk readers voted against extending the transition period
One person said: "No more extensions! We've had enough already. "Walk away now with no deal. "How many extensions has the EU and they're still no better off?" Another person claimed the EU was saying it did not want the UK to leave due not agreeing a deal. They added: "The EU had four years to secure a deal that won't ever happen- they don't want a deal and they don't want us to leave." A third person said: "Choose no deal!" And a fourth simply added: "Boris, you sell the UK out, you are toast!" READ MORE: Boris tells EU to GET REAL: UK threatens to walk away from talks
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Michel Barnier will resume talks with his UK counterpart David Frost
The UK is scheduled to end the transition period on December 31
Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen will speak again on Monday evening, which will be their second call in just over 48 hours. Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin warned that talks remained on a "knife edge". He said there appeared to be a "very challenging issue" still to be resolved over the "level playing field" rules on fair competition. He told RTE: "My gut instinct is that it is 50-50 right now. Things are on a knife edge and it is serious.
Boris Johnson has been warned against giving into the EU's demands
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thedailyexpress--2020-12-06--Boris Johnson needs to break international law after 'not reading' withdrawal agreement

During the latest episode of Brexit Unlocked , Jon Holbrook questioned how Boris Johnson and the UK Government could sign up to the terms outlined in the withdrawal agreement .
He added that the Prime Minister should argue that the withdrawal agreement goes against the integrity of Britain in a bid to get out of the coercive law the EU will not shy away from using .
Mr Holbrook said : `` It seems to me that Boris and everyone else who cheered that withdrawal agreement never properly read it .
`` They only seem to have now discovered that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to partially partition the United Kingdom down the Irish Sea .
`` I mean what sensible government could possibly sign the country up to that .
`` Though that is the difficulty that he 's never realised we 're in so he 's now proposing to pass national legislation that will enable us to breach our international obligations .
READ MORE : Brexit deal smashed by self-serving French says JOE BARNES '' I do not have a problem with that , it seems to me international law is very different from national law @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the same way , it largely works on the basis of consent . ''
He continued : `` But the problem is there are enforcement mechanisms under the withdrawal agreement and the EU have said they wo n't shy away from using them .
`` Ultimately , if you do battle with a coercive law and this law under the withdrawal agreement will be coercive , then you tend to come off badly .
`` If the government was serious about it and explained to the people why it was necessary to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goes to the very essence and integrity of our nation , then it seems to me there would be scope for us doing it and getting away with it .
`` But one of the many problems with Boris is that he wo n't ever have that argument with us .
`` He wo n't ever tell it like it is and he wo n't mobilise the people because if he tried it , I 'm sure he would have some success . ''
Brexit poll : Would you support an extension to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : France desperate to keep UK waters in `` unfair '' access [ Latest ] Labour accused of wanting Boris to surrender to EU 'at final hour ' [ Update ]

Brexit: Boris 'never properly read' WAB claims barrister
During the latest episode of Brexit Unlocked, Jon Holbrook questioned how Boris Johnson and the UK Government could sign up to the terms outlined in the withdrawal agreement. He added that the Prime Minister should argue that the withdrawal agreement goes against the integrity of Britain in a bid to get out of the coercive law the EU will not shy away from using.
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Mr Holbrook said: "It seems to me that Boris and everyone else who cheered that withdrawal agreement never properly read it. "They only seem to have now discovered that that withdrawal agreement will enable the EU to partially partition the United Kingdom down the Irish Sea. "I mean what sensible government could possibly sign the country up to that. "Though that is the difficulty that he's never realised we're in so he's now proposing to pass national legislation that will enable us to breach our international obligations. READ MORE: Brexit deal smashed by self-serving French says JOE BARNES
Boris Johnson has been Prime Minister since July 2019
Boris Johnson replaced Theresa May as Prime Minister
"I do not have a problem with that, it seems to me international law is very different from national law. "It is not binding in the same way, it largely works on the basis of consent." He continued: "But the problem is there are enforcement mechanisms under the withdrawal agreement and the EU have said they won't shy away from using them. "Ultimately, if you do battle with a coercive law and this law under the withdrawal agreement will be coercive, then you tend to come off badly. WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW HERE
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Brexit: David Davis urges Boris to 'not be bullied' by EU
"If the government was serious about it and explained to the people why it was necessary to do this, in other words, it goes to the very essence and integrity of our nation, then it seems to me there would be scope for us doing it and getting away with it. "But one of the many problems with Boris is that he won't ever have that argument with us. "He won't ever tell it like it is and he won't mobilise the people because if he tried it, I'm sure he would have some success." DON'T MISS Brexit poll: Would you support an extension to transition period? [Poll]
Brexit: France desperate to keep UK waters in "unfair" access [Latest]
Labour accused of wanting Boris to surrender to EU 'at final hour' [Update]
Brexit: The stages of the UK and EU securing a trade agreement


thedailyexpress--2020-12-06--Priti Patel: What is the new points-based immigration system?

Immigration rules are about to change with the end of the Brexit transition period , due to end on December @ @ @ @ @ of next year , EU citizens will be subject to the same rules as other @ @ @ @ @ Secretary Priti Patel has recently been criticized for her hardline approach to deporting asylum seekers @ @ @ @ @ the transition period .
Ms Patel has been undertaking a major reform of the UK @ @ @ @ @ systems for some time now .
The Government website reads : “ We are implementing @ @ @ @ @ transform the way in which all migrants come to the UK to work , study @ @ @ @ @ family .
“ It will also revolutionise the operation of the UK border , tighten @ @ @ @ @ customer experience for those coming to the UK .
”

Priti Patel: I am sorry if my behaviour has upset people
Immigration rules have now changed with the end of the Brexit transition period and the UK's full departure from the bloc. 2021 means EU citizens coming to settle in the UK will be subject to the same rules as other international settlers.
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The Home Secretary Priti Patel has recently been criticized for her hardline approach to deporting asylum seekers ahead of the end of the transition period. Ms Patel has been undertaking a major reform of the UK’s asylum and immigration systems for some time now. The Government website reads: “We are implementing a new system that will transform the way in which all migrants come to the UK to work, study, visit or join their family. “It will also revolutionise the operation of the UK border, tighten security and deliver a better customer experience for those coming to the UK.”
Priti Patel: The new system will come into place at the end of the transition period
Boris Johnson and Priti Patel
READ MORE VDL aide accused of 'giving UK too much' - Barnier reverses course How does the points system work? Under the new rules, anyone wanting to move to the UK from inside or outside of the EU will need 70 points. Potential settlers can get points for a variety of reasons. Having a job offer from an approved employer in the UK for a "skilled job" will earn 40 points; being able to speak English will award 10 points; earnings above £25,600 per year will add 20 points.
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Boris Johnson and Priti Patel are understood to have a close relationship
Having a job in health or education will still merit 20 points even if the salary is below this threshold. Applicants can also get more points for having better qualifications, such as a PhD in science, technology, engineering or maths areas. There will also be an application fee - this will depend on how many years the applicant plans to work in the UK, and whether their job can be found on the list of skills the UK has shortages of. If their skills are not on that list, the standard fee comes in at £610. DON'T MISS
Brexit poll: Would you support an extension to transition period? [POLL]
How will Brexit affect everyday life in Britain? [ANALYSIS]
Brexit talks: What is the level playing field? [EXPLAINER]
READ MORE Sturgeon's bid to beg von der Leyen for EU membership exposed What about students? There will be no limit on how many international students can come to the UK. However, students from the EU, who would usually pay home fees, will have to pay hefty international fees. Summer 2021 will see the launch of a new graduate visa which will allow students who have completed a degree to stay in the UK for two years.
Brexit: Time is almost up for negotiators


thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--Brexit WAR: Barnier gloats to EU MEPs Boris has backed down on fishing, UK says 'not true'

In a private briefing , the Brussels diplomat claimed the Prime Minister was no longer asking for annual negotiations to decide post-Brexit fishing quotas .
But he insisted the wrangling over fishing rights was far from over with both sides still “ far apart ” on access to UK waters and quota numbers .
“ Britain has accepted the EU demand that quotas can ’ t be negotiated annually , ” an EU source said .
British officials lashed out at the latest claims by Mr Barnier , accusing the EU 's Brexit chief of bending the truth .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU need to recognise that the UK will be an independent coastal state at the end of the year with sovereign control over access to UK waters . ''
Lord Frost was said to be happy to accept a transition period , during which Britain 's fishing quotas would gradually increase .
This comes after rumours of a potential breakthrough emerged last night but were swiftly quashed by Mr Barnier and Downing Street .
The Frenchman told MEPs he is struggling to reach an agreement on the period between future negotiations on fishing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ already rejected an EU proposal that would see talks held every day years .

Brexit: Jeremy Vine caller says UK should 'walk away' with no deal
In a private briefing, the Brussels diplomat claimed the Prime Minister was no longer asking for annual negotiations to decide post-Brexit fishing quotas. But he insisted the wrangling over fishing rights was far from over with both sides still “far apart” on access to UK waters and quota numbers. “Britain has accepted the EU demand that quotas can’t be negotiated annually,” an EU source said.
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British officials lashed out at the latest claims by Mr Barnier, accusing the EU's Brexit chief of bending the truth. A UK Government source said: "This isn’t true. "The UK's position remains that the EU need to recognise that the UK will be an independent coastal state at the end of the year with sovereign control over access to UK waters." Lord Frost was said to be happy to accept a transition period, during which Britain's fishing quotas would gradually increase. This comes after rumours of a potential breakthrough emerged last night but were swiftly quashed by Mr Barnier and Downing Street. The Frenchman told MEPs he is struggling to reach an agreement on the period between future negotiations on fishing opportunities in British waters. Britain has already rejected an EU proposal that would see talks held every day years.
Michel Barnier has claimed Boris Johnson has dropped a key fisheries demand
Mr Barnier suggested a possible compromise could emerge with discussions every three to five years in the future. However, he warned the wrangling was still very much stuck because of a British "wish" to block EU access in its exclusive six-to-12-miles from its coast. And both sides also are still yet to reach an agreement on future quotas.
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Michel Barnier is the EU's chief Brexit negotiator
In a seperate briefing with EU27 ambassadors, Mr Barnier said fishing talks were thrown into "disarray" by a fresh proposal by the UK that would outlaw so-called flag ships. Downing Street wants boats fishing in its waters to be majority owned by British firms. The wrangling over future access to Britain's coastal waters is no longer considered the most difficult challenge in the Brexit trade talks. MUST READ: Boris Johnson ready to use legal loophole to ratify Brexit trade deal
Lord Frost enters the EU Commission's Berlaymont headquarters
Mr Barnier explained to EU27 envoys that the main obstacle to a deal was no the so-called level playing field. He is concerned about how Brussels can manage future divergences as the UK moves away from the bloc's rulebook. Both sides are currently working on potential systems for confirming whether any future state aid handouts create a trade distortion between the EU and UK. And the EU is still insisting on a mechanism that would allow the EU to slap Britain with trade tariffs if the Government's doesn't keep in line with the bloc's enviromental and social standards, as well as workers' rights. DON'T MISS
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Ireland PANIC: Coveney admits Brexit deal looks very difficult [INSIGHT]
Brexit: Jeremy Vine caller 'UK should 'walk away' with no deal


thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--Boris REJECTS Barnier's new Wednesday deadline - Brexit talks risk collapse in hours

The EU chief negotiator told MEPs this morning that trade talks were now in the `` endgame '' and would not continue beyond mid-week .
However , the Prime Minister has rejected the arbitrary deadline , saying Britain is willing to continue negotiating for as long as necessary to secure an agreement .
His official spokesman said this afternoon : `` Time is obviously now in very short supply and we are in the final stages but we are prepared to negotiate for as long as we have time available if we think an agreement is still possible . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ talks , the negotiations could break down as soon as this evening .
Mr Barnier and his UK counterpart , David Frost , are in Brussels carrying out last-minute talks in a desperate bid to break the deadlock .
Negotiations were paused on Friday night after the two sides failed to reach a breakthrough .
READ MORE ON OUR BREXIT LIVE BLOG However , they resumed again yesterday after Mr Johnson and European Commission President held a phone call on Saturday evening and agree to continue pushing for a trade deal .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are planning to hold another phone call at 4pm this afternoon to discuss progress .
Mr Johnson 's spokesman said : `` The Prime Minister will speak to Ursula von Der Leyen later today to take stock of where the negotiations have got to .
`` But with negotiations ongoing now , we 'll need to see where they will get to . ''
If they believe there is no chance of reaching an agreement , they could decide to immediately break off talks and prepare for a no deal scenario .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in less than four weeks time , with time running out for London and Brussels agree and ratify a trade pact before December 31 .
READ MORE : Brexit talks 'hang in the balance ' as Barnier warns 48 hours left Mr Johnson has said he remains committed to trying to secure an agreement but is not afraid of leaving without one .
His spokesman added : `` The Prime Minister still hopes that we are able to reach a free trade agreement , which is why the team are continuing to negotiate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has said , if we have to we will leave on Australia terms . ''
He has also ruled out continuing negotiations into next year if there was a failure to agree a trade deal .
DO N'T MISS : Boris 's Brexit plan under threat : Activists demand peers intervene [ WARNING ] Macron faces Merkel for talks as French demands hold up Brexit deal [ INSIGHT ] Brexit talks to continue for 'YEARS ' as Brussels to force 'deal ' [ VIDEO ] The spokesman confirmed if there is no free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a series of mini-deals to cover the 98 percent of n egotiations already completed .
He said : `` I think we 've been clear that if we ca n't reach an FTA we will leave on Australian terms . ''
Mr Johnson has previously said the UK would `` continue to prosper '' if it left under such circumstances .
Chances of a deal now hang in the balance with little progress made on the main issues holding up an agreement .
A senior EU diplomat said : “ Barnier and Frost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK delegation to Brussels yesterday and we understand they made some progress but they have not quite managed to bridge the significant difficulties in the three key issues – level playing field , fishing and governance – that remain .
“ There has been no decisive progress made so far , though some progress has been made .

Brexit: Cleverly says UK aims to not give EU 'advantage' in talks
The EU chief negotiator told MEPs this morning that trade talks were now in the "endgame" and would not continue beyond mid-week. However, the Prime Minister has rejected the arbitrary deadline, saying Britain is willing to continue negotiating for as long as necessary to secure an agreement.
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His official spokesman said this afternoon: "Time is obviously now in very short supply and we are in the final stages but we are prepared to negotiate for as long as we have time available if we think an agreement is still possible." However, with little progress made in talks, the negotiations could break down as soon as this evening. Mr Barnier and his UK counterpart, David Frost, are in Brussels carrying out last-minute talks in a desperate bid to break the deadlock. Negotiations were paused on Friday night after the two sides failed to reach a breakthrough. READ MORE ON OUR BREXIT LIVE BLOG
Boris Johnson has refused to be pressured into a Brexit deal with Barnier's Wednesday deadline
However, they resumed again yesterday after Mr Johnson and European Commission President held a phone call on Saturday evening and agree to continue pushing for a trade deal. The Prime Minister and Ms von Der Leyen are planning to hold another phone call at 4pm this afternoon to discuss progress. Mr Johnson's spokesman said: "The Prime Minister will speak to Ursula von Der Leyen later today to take stock of where the negotiations have got to. "But with negotiations ongoing now, we'll need to see where they will get to." If they believe there is no chance of reaching an agreement, they could decide to immediately break off talks and prepare for a no deal scenario. The UK will leave the EU transition period in less than four weeks time, with time running out for London and Brussels agree and ratify a trade pact before December 31. READ MORE: Brexit talks 'hang in the balance' as Barnier warns 48 hours left
David Frost headed to Brussels yesterday to continue negotiations
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Mr Frost and Michel Barnier are hoping to make a breakthrough in negotiations
Mr Johnson has said he remains committed to trying to secure an agreement but is not afraid of leaving without one. His spokesman added: "The Prime Minister still hopes that we are able to reach a free trade agreement, which is why the team are continuing to negotiate. "But as the Prime Minister has said, if we have to we will leave on Australia terms." He has also ruled out continuing negotiations into next year if there was a failure to agree a trade deal. DON'T MISS:
Boris's Brexit plan under threat: Activists demand peers intervene [WARNING]
Macron faces Merkel for talks as French demands hold up Brexit deal [INSIGHT]
Brexit talks to continue for 'YEARS' as Brussels to force 'deal' [VIDEO]
Michel Barnier told EU representatives this morning Wednesday was the deadline for a deal
The spokesman confirmed if there is no free trade agreement the UK will not broker a series of mini-deals to cover the 98 percent of n egotiations already completed. He said: "I think we've been clear that if we can't reach an FTA we will leave on Australian terms." Mr Johnson has previously said the UK would "continue to prosper" if it left under such circumstances. Chances of a deal now hang in the balance with little progress made on the main issues holding up an agreement. A senior EU diplomat said: “Barnier and Frost negotiated intensively since the arrival of the UK delegation to Brussels yesterday and we understand they made some progress but they have not quite managed to bridge the significant difficulties in the three key issues – level playing field, fishing and governance – that remain. “There has been no decisive progress made so far, though some progress has been made.
Brexit end game: The steps needed for a trade deal to be secured
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thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--Macron faces Merkel for emergency talks as French fishing demands hold up Brexit deal

As the Brexit trade talks reach a critical stage , French President suggested he would speak with his German counterpart imminently .
Speaking at a press conference , Mr Macron refused to speculate what the pair will be discussing when they speak .
The phone call is expected to take place later today with Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also set for their own showdown talks .
France and Germany are considered key decision-makers in the Brexit process and have recently been at odds over what concessions EU negotiator Michel Barnier should be allowed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has repeatedly warned it will veto any trade deal unless Britain agrees compromise terms .
Mr Barnier last week sparked disarray when he tabled a series of “ eleventh hour ” proposals to appease Brexit hardliner Mr Macron .
The French President has insisted the EU should be ready to walk away from the talks because a no deal would be better than a bad deal for the bloc .
Whereas Berlin is far more focused on using concessions on fishing and the so-called level playing field to secure a deal .
Mrs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legacy before she leaves office next year .
Meanwhile Mr Barnier has warned Brussels figures Brexit talks will not continue beyond Wednesday if there is no agreement .
The Brussels diplomat this morning told MEPs that he believes an agreement must be reached within 48 hours .
Mr Barnier said there are “ 48 hours for a deal to be made ” , according to one insider familiar with the discussions .
MUST READ : Ireland PANIC : Coveney admits Brexit deal looks very difficult In a seperate briefing , he told EU27 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still deadlocked on the issues of post-Brexit fishing rights , the so-called level playing field and policing the final agreement .
Downing Street has raised the prospect of a no-deal Brexit unless Mr Barnier is allowed to offer more concessions by hardline EU states .
Mrs Merkel and Mr Macron will play a critical role in deciding whether any last-minute deal is acceptable to the bloc .
DO N'T MISS Brexit : UK 'wo n't be free of EU fishing rules for 20 years ' [ VIDEO ] Merkel does NOT agree with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talks [ ANALYSIS ] Pound euro exchange rate volatile amid 'high ' hopes of Brexit deal [ FORECAST ]

Brexit: Peter Bone criticises ‘unreasonable demands by France’
As the Brexit trade talks reach a critical stage, French President suggested he would speak with his German counterpart imminently. Speaking at a press conference, Mr Macron refused to speculate what the pair will be discussing when they speak. The phone call is expected to take place later today with Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also set for their own showdown talks.
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France and Germany are considered key decision-makers in the Brexit process and have recently been at odds over what concessions EU negotiator Michel Barnier should be allowed to offer Britain. The French government has repeatedly warned it will veto any trade deal unless Britain agrees compromise terms. Mr Barnier last week sparked disarray when he tabled a series of “eleventh hour” proposals to appease Brexit hardliner Mr Macron.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron due to hold talks today
German Chancellor Angela Merkel
The French President has insisted the EU should be ready to walk away from the talks because a no deal would be better than a bad deal for the bloc. Whereas Berlin is far more focused on using concessions on fishing and the so-called level playing field to secure a deal. Mrs Merkel wants an agreement to cement her legacy before she leaves office next year.
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French President Emmanuel Macron
Meanwhile Mr Barnier has warned Brussels figures Brexit talks will not continue beyond Wednesday if there is no agreement. The Brussels diplomat this morning told MEPs that he believes an agreement must be reached within 48 hours. Mr Barnier said there are “48 hours for a deal to be made”, according to one insider familiar with the discussions. MUST READ: Ireland PANIC: Coveney admits Brexit deal looks very difficult
Brexit end game: What needs to be done to get a trade and security deal across the line
In a seperate briefing, he told EU27 ambassadors this morning that the talks are still deadlocked on the issues of post-Brexit fishing rights, the so-called level playing field and policing the final agreement. Downing Street has raised the prospect of a no-deal Brexit unless Mr Barnier is allowed to offer more concessions by hardline EU states. Mrs Merkel and Mr Macron will play a critical role in deciding whether any last-minute deal is acceptable to the bloc. DON'T MISS
Brexit: UK 'won't be free of EU fishing rules for 20 years' [VIDEO]
Merkel does NOT agree with Macron’s fishing demands in Brexit talks [ANALYSIS]
Pound euro exchange rate volatile amid 'high' hopes of Brexit deal [FORECAST]
Brexit: EU want to show there is a 'price to be paid' says Hannan


thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--Michel Barnier issues NEW Brexit deadline: EU chief warns 48 hours left to clinch deal

The Brussels diplomat this morning told MEPs that he believes an agreement must be reached by Wednesday at the latest .
Mr Barnier said there are “ 48 hours for a deal to be made ” , according to one insider familiar with the discussions .
He told EU27 ambassadors this morning that the talks are still deadlocked on the issues of post-Brexit fishing rights , the so-called level playing field and policing the final agreement .
The bloc ’ s hopes of a deal are resting on tonight ’ s phone call between Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A senior EU diplomat said : “ Barnier and Frost negotiated intensively since the arrival of the UK delegation to Brussels yesterday and we understand they made some progress but they have not quite managed to bridge the significant difficulties in the three key issues – level playing field , fishing and governance – that remain .
“ There has been no decisive progress made so far , though some progress has been made .
These are going to be decisive hours for the future of UK-EU relations and we ’ re at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” The source said chances of a Brexit trade deal currently “ hang in the balance ” and more information should emerge when Mr Johnson and Mrs von der Leyen “ take stock ” of the wrangling later today .
UK and EU officials were locked in talks over the future relationship up until midnight last night in a last-ditch effort to find an agreement for post-Brexit fishing rights and common standards .
Downing Street has warned Lord Frost , the Prime Minister ’ s chief negotiator , will only remain at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal is still possible .
In a separate briefing with EU27 ambassadors , Mr Barnier delivered a “ gloomy , downbeat ” assessment of the latest round of talks .
The Frenchman is understood to have told the envoys he can ’ t guarantee whether a deal is possible before the end of the transition period .
An EU diplomat said : `` EU-UK negotiations have entered the endgame , time is running out quickly .
`` Despite intensive negotiations until late last night , the gaps on level playing field , governance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The outcome is still uncertain , it can still go both ways .
MUST READ : Ireland PANIC : Coveney admits Brexit deal looks very difficult '' The EU is ready to go the extra mile to agree on a fair , sustainable and balanced deal for citizens in the EU and UK .
It is for the UK to choose between such a positive outcome or a no deal outcome . ''
Mr Barnier was forced to deny overnight reports that he had made a breakthrough in discussions over access to Britain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The EU ’ s Brexit chief said the claims were a “ myth ” after Downing Street also moved quickly to deny any progress had been made .
DO N'T MISS Pound euro exchange rate volatile amid 'high ' hopes of Brexit deal [ FORECAST ] We must remember devious Macron is not our friend , says LEO McKINSTRY [ COMMENT ] Barnier declares 'no trade deal ' after late night talks with Frost [ REVEALED ]

Brexit: Jeremy Vine caller says UK should 'walk away' with no deal
The Brussels diplomat this morning told MEPs that he believes an agreement must be reached by Wednesday at the latest. Mr Barnier said there are “48 hours for a deal to be made”, according to one insider familiar with the discussions. He told EU27 ambassadors this morning that the talks are still deadlocked on the issues of post-Brexit fishing rights, the so-called level playing field and policing the final agreement.
Trending
The bloc’s hopes of a deal are resting on tonight’s phone call between Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. A senior EU diplomat said: “Barnier and Frost negotiated intensively since the arrival of the UK delegation to Brussels yesterday and we understand they made some progress but they have not quite managed to bridge the significant difficulties in the three key issues – level playing field, fishing and governance – that remain. “There has been no decisive progress made so far, though some progress has been made. These are going to be decisive hours for the future of UK-EU relations and we’re at the make it or break it moment.” The source said chances of a Brexit trade deal currently “hang in the balance” and more information should emerge when Mr Johnson and Mrs von der Leyen “take stock” of the wrangling later today.
Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen have just 48 hours to seal Brexit deal, says Michel Barnier
Michel Barnier attends a meeting with EU27 ambassadors
UK and EU officials were locked in talks over the future relationship up until midnight last night in a last-ditch effort to find an agreement for post-Brexit fishing rights and common standards. Downing Street has warned Lord Frost, the Prime Minister’s chief negotiator, will only remain at the table as long as he believes a deal is still possible. In a separate briefing with EU27 ambassadors, Mr Barnier delivered a “gloomy, downbeat” assessment of the latest round of talks.
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Boris Johnson during his recent phone call with Ursula von der Leyen
The Frenchman is understood to have told the envoys he can’t guarantee whether a deal is possible before the end of the transition period. An EU diplomat said: "EU-UK negotiations have entered the endgame, time is running out quickly. "Despite intensive negotiations until late last night, the gaps on level playing field, governance and fisheries are still not bridged. The outcome is still uncertain, it can still go both ways. MUST READ: Ireland PANIC: Coveney admits Brexit deal looks very difficult
Ursula von der Leyen is the EU Commission's president
"The EU is ready to go the extra mile to agree on a fair, sustainable and balanced deal for citizens in the EU and UK. It is for the UK to choose between such a positive outcome or a no deal outcome." Mr Barnier was forced to deny overnight reports that he had made a breakthrough in discussions over access to Britain’s coastal waters with Lord Frost. The EU’s Brexit chief said the claims were a “myth” after Downing Street also moved quickly to deny any progress had been made. DON'T MISS
Pound euro exchange rate volatile amid 'high' hopes of Brexit deal [FORECAST]
We must remember devious Macron is not our friend, says LEO McKINSTRY [COMMENT]
Barnier declares 'no trade deal' after late night talks with Frost [REVEALED]
Brexit: Expert discusses why Macron has been 'tough' in talks


thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--Brexit plan under threat: Left-wing activists petition House of Lord's to block trade bill

Pro-Nationalisation lobby group We Own It are calling on peers to amend the Trade Bill to ensure NHS services are @ @ @ @ @ agreements .
Tories have already fought off attempts to add an amendment to the Bill @ @ @ @ @ of Commons , saying it is unnecessary .
The Prime Minister has already promised the @ @ @ @ @ sale in trade talks with other countries .
In October he said : “ In @ @ @ @ @ our country , our national health service will never be on the table.
” But @ @ @ @ @ peers to alter the Trade Bill because they do n't trust the Boris Johnson 's @ @ @ @ @ written into law that the NHS will be protected in trade deals and also want @ @ @ @ @ vote on agreements before they come into affect .
READ MORE : Brexit warning : @ @ @ @ @ stick to his guns ’ amid NHS plot

Spending Review: Rishi Sunak reveals pay rise for NHS workers
Pro-Nationalisation lobby group We Own It are calling on peers to amend the Trade Bill to ensure NHS services are excluded from all future trade agreements. Tories have already fought off attempts to add an amendment to the Bill by Labour in the House of Commons, saying it is unnecessary.
The Prime Minister has already promised the NHS will not be for sale in trade talks with other countries. In October he said: “In any future trade negotiations with our country, our national health service will never be on the table.” But campaigners are hoping to persuade peers to alter the Trade Bill because they don't trust the Boris Johnson's words. They want it written into law that the NHS will be protected in trade deals and also want to give MPs power to vote on agreements before they come into affect. READ MORE: Brexit warning: Boris will need to ‘stick to his guns’ amid NHS plot
We Own It are demanding the Lords intervene in the Trade Bill
Handing in their petition signatures in six boxes outside Parliament this morning, We Own It unveiled a banner reading: “All we want for Christmas is NHS protection from trade deals.” The Trae Bill must be in place by December 31 in order for the UK implement trade deals with countries it has already agreed. Any amendments in the House of Lords would slow down the passing of the legislation, with the end of year deadline just weeks away. Failure for it to come into law before December 31 could spark chaos for trade once the UK has left the EU transition period. DON'T MISS:
NHS off the table for UK 'values-driven free trade' says Liz Truss [UPDATE]
SNP in shameless plot to block Boris' Brexit masterplan [INSIGHT]
'Can't stay away!' Twitter users mock Verhofstadt after Brexit post [REACTION]
The left-wing activists handed in six boxes of signatures
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It would also potential cause problems for Mr Johnson and the Government down the line when trying to implement trade deals signed with the US and other international partners. The amendment would give MPs the chance to veto any trade deals going forward they do not like. Speaking on the petition, We Own It campaigner Johnbosco Nwogbo said: “The public have made their views crystal clear. "Over 300,000 people have stood up and said that we won’t allow our NHS to be carved up and sold off in a trade deal with the USA or any other country.
Boris Johnson has already seen off an attempt to amend by the Bill by Labour
Keir Starmer tried to ensure NHS services could not be included in any future trade deals
“The time for warm words and reassurances is over. "Boris Johnson has consistently told us that he will take the NHS ‘off the table’ in trade deals. "Now it’s time for MPs and Lords to write that into law.
Brexit end game: The steps needed for a trade deal to be secured
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--'Get real, Boris!' Nicola Sturgeon uses Scottish Covid briefing to slam Brexit progress

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon admitted to being increasingly concerned about the possibility of a no deal Brexit during her coronavirus briefing .
BBC Scotland 's Glen Campbell attempted to ask about the impact of a no deal Brexit on the NHS but was cut off due to technical issues .
Ms Sturgeon remained determined to speak on the Brexit progress being made and insisted that the Government and Boris Johnson needed to `` get real '' about the possibilities available with the end of the transition period near .
Ms Sturgeon said : `` I am increasingly concerned as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the prospect of the transition period ending at the end of the year with no trade deal agreed between the UK and EU .
`` Any trade deal that is likely to be agreed at this stage is going to be quite a bare-bones minimalist agreement so we are anticipating some disruption and inconvenience anyway .
`` That will clearly be much , much worse if there is no agreement at all .
`` I very much hope that we will see breakthroughs on these talks literally over the course of today @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the prospects .
DO N'T MISS : 'When Heath took us into the EU it was for trade only-NOT to be ruled '

Brexit: Sturgeon 'increasingly concerned' over no deal chances
Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon admitted to being increasingly concerned about the possibility of a no deal Brexit during her coronavirus briefing. BBC Scotland's Glen Campbell attempted to ask about the impact of a no deal Brexit on the NHS but was cut off due to technical issues. Ms Sturgeon remained determined to speak on the Brexit progress being made and insisted that the Government and Boris Johnson needed to "get real" about the possibilities available with the end of the transition period near.
Trending
Ms Sturgeon said: "I am increasingly concerned as I suspect many people are right now about the prospect of the transition period ending at the end of the year with no trade deal agreed between the UK and EU. "Any trade deal that is likely to be agreed at this stage is going to be quite a bare-bones minimalist agreement so we are anticipating some disruption and inconvenience anyway. "That will clearly be much, much worse if there is no agreement at all. "I very much hope that we will see breakthroughs on these talks literally over the course of today in order to be more optimistic about the prospects. DON'T MISS: 'When Heath took us into the EU it was for trade only-NOT to be ruled'
'Get real, Boris!' Nicola Sturgeon uses Scottish Covid briefing to slam Brexit progress
Nicola Sturgeon said the Government and Boris Johnson needed to "get real" about the possibilities available with the end of the transition period near.
"I think the UK Government need to get real and really understand the implications for the NHS and across the economy if there is no deal agreed." The SNP leader then reflected on the potential impact a no deal Brexit could have on the NHS and what her Government is doing in preparation. She said: "In terms of the NHS and what I think you will have been asking about, I have watched some of the BBC's coverage this morning. "We look very carefully and have been looking very carefully at arrangements for medicines and other clinical consumables.
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Nicola Sturgeon: Ms Sturgeon also faced criticism online from shifting to the political topic of Brexit rather sticking strictly on coronavirus.
Coronavirus vaccine distribution is ‘chaos’ says professor
"We have established that a national stockpile of around 60 critical care and supportive care and end of life medicines. "We have got a stockpile of supplies for COVID-19 and treatments. "NHS Scotland is working to ensure adequate supplies of stocks of medical devices and clinical consumables." Ms Sturgeon also faced criticism online from shifting to the political topic of Brexit rather sticking strictly on coronavirus.
Nicola Sturgeon: Brexit timeline explained


thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--'You're selling the country out' Furious caller confronts Owen Jones in Brexit row on Vine

Political commentator Owen Jones claimed British agriculture will suffer post-Brexit as he insisted to be defending the working class in the clash .
But Don from Lancashire called the Jeremy Vine show to tell Mr Jones that he is `` glad '' he is not negotiating in the Brexit trade talks .
Don said : `` You sound as though you 're selling the country out .
`` The trouble is I 'm just glad that you 're negotiating for our country because we would end up with nothing . ''
Mr Jones said : `` Can I ask , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country to want to defend agriculture from being completely ravaged by tariffs ?
`` It 's not standing up for the country to say , 'to hell with the farmers , to hell with the agriculture ' .
`` The working class will suffer and I 've got to stand up for working class people , not the elites . ''
READ MORE : 'Walk away now ! '
Britons furious at EU 's 'ridiculous ' Brexit offer It comes as Scottish Constitution Secretary Michael Russell has said an alert system has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit causes shortages in medicine supply .
Talks with health boards are ongoing to make sure they are prepared for any disruption , he added .
Mr Russell also said it was `` inconceivable '' that the SNP would vote for any Bexit deal in the House of Commons , despite saying the UK Government should come to an arrangement with the EU for the future beyond the transition period .
Speaking on the BBC 's Good Morning Scotland , the Constitution Secretary said the Scottish Government was discussing its no-deal planning for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We have put in place something called medicine supply alert notices which will flag up if there are any shortages coming down the track , and we 'll be able to address those .
`` We 're working with the health boards and others on resilience and indeed there is another event this week . ''
Mr Russell said he would outline further issues of Brexit preparedness in a statement to Holyrood on Tuesday .
The UK Government was only looking for a `` low deal '' outcome from the ongoing talks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to disruption on January 1 .
'When Heath took us into the EU it was for trade only-NOT to be ruled ' [ VIDEO ] Brexit negotiations latest : What is happening with Brexit now ?
[ INSIGHT ] 'If you were negotiating you 'd be a disaster !
Vine slams Owen Jones [ ANALYSIS ]

Jeremy Vine: Owen Jones clashes with caller
Political commentator Owen Jones claimed British agriculture will suffer post-Brexit as he insisted to be defending the working class in the clash. But Don from Lancashire called the Jeremy Vine show to tell Mr Jones that he is "glad" he is not negotiating in the Brexit trade talks. Don said: "You sound as though you're selling the country out.
Trending
"The trouble is I'm just glad that you're negotiating for our country because we would end up with nothing." Mr Jones said: "Can I ask, Don, is it selling out the country to want to defend agriculture from being completely ravaged by tariffs? "It's not standing up for the country to say, 'to hell with the farmers, to hell with the agriculture'. "The working class will suffer and I've got to stand up for working class people, not the elites." READ MORE: 'Walk away now!' Britons furious at EU's 'ridiculous' Brexit offer
Owen Jones claimed British agriculture will suffer post-Brexit
Don from Lancashire said he is 'glad' Mr Jones is not negotiating on behalf of the UK
It comes as Scottish Constitution Secretary Michael Russell has said an alert system has been set up in case a no deal Brexit causes shortages in medicine supply. Talks with health boards are ongoing to make sure they are prepared for any disruption, he added. Mr Russell also said it was "inconceivable" that the SNP would vote for any Bexit deal in the House of Commons, despite saying the UK Government should come to an arrangement with the EU for the future beyond the transition period. Speaking on the BBC's Good Morning Scotland, the Constitution Secretary said the Scottish Government was discussing its no-deal planning for a third time.
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Brexit talks are reaching a crunch point
Brexit: Jeremy Vine caller says UK should 'walk away' with no deal
He said: "We have put in place something called medicine supply alert notices which will flag up if there are any shortages coming down the track, and we'll be able to address those. "We're working with the health boards and others on resilience and indeed there is another event this week." Mr Russell said he would outline further issues of Brexit preparedness in a statement to Holyrood on Tuesday. The UK Government was only looking for a "low deal" outcome from the ongoing talks, he said, which would lead to disruption on January 1. DON'T MISS 'When Heath took us into the EU it was for trade only-NOT to be ruled' [VIDEO]
Brexit negotiations latest: What is happening with Brexit now? [INSIGHT]
'If you were negotiating you'd be a disaster! Vine slams Owen Jones [ANALYSIS]
EU citizens moving to the UK


thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--'Walk away now!' Britons furious at EU's 'ridiculous' Brexit offer 'Talks are pointless!'

Boris Johnson is becoming increasingly frustrated and has warned Brussels to decide between a no-deal Brexit or accepting Britain as a sovereign country .
The Prime Minister 's chief Brexit negotiator Lord Frost has told EU counterpart Michel Barnier he will only remain at the negotiating table while the Frenchman is willing to compromise .
Last week , Mr Barnier was ordered by French President Emmanuel Macron to table a series of “ eleventh-hour ” proposals that left the negotiations close to collapse .
A UK source close to the talks said : “ There won ’ t be any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recognise political reality .
“ We ’ ll only keep talking if there is some movement and we think there ’ s any point.
” Mr Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen held talks over the weekend but they reportedly failed to change the `` substance '' of the negotiations between the UK and EU .
Both sides remain at loggerheads over post-Brexit fishing rights , with sources in Brussels believing a `` landing zone '' is emerging for future access to Britain ’ s coastal waters .
But Express.co.uk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ negotiating stance from the EU and have told the UK to walk away from the negotiating table and leave the bloc without a trade deal in place .
One person said : “ Negotiations are in a worse place than they were weeks ago when they stopped .
`` Apparently they only restarted because the EU was changing their position .
`` Their position certainly has changed , to something even more ridiculous and farfetched .
READ MORE : Should Boris walk away after EU ’ s offer to hand back 18 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The EU have constantly used blatant lies and open deceit throughout these `` Faux '' negotiations .
`` Had the EU had a single ounce of `` good Faith '' a valid framework could easily have been agreed 10 months ago .
`` It is now to late for the EU to see sense so we are now continuing these pointless talks purely to score points in the inevitable forthcoming blame game . ''
DO N'T MISS Brexit negotiations latest : What is happening with Brexit now ?
[ ANALYSIS ] 'If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disaster !
Vine slams Owen Jones [ VIDEO ] Nigel Farage warns Boris Johnson against Brexit 'sell-out ' [ COMMENT ] A third person commented : `` A no-deal will be painful for some time to come but in five years ’ time we and the current doubters will be celebrating our freedom - as well as most probably sharing it with other current member states that have decided to join us in leaving the EU . ''
Another reader simply said : `` No more threats .
Just walk away ! ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit negotiator Lord Frost arrived in Brussels for further talks in an attempt to thrash out a deal with less than a month left until the end of the transition period on December 31 .
He said : “ We ’ re going to be working very hard to get a deal .
“ We ’ re going to see what happens in negotiations today and will be looking forward to meeting our European colleagues later this afternoon.
” Ireland 's Foreign Minister Simon Coveney claimed the Brexit trade deal between the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ per cent ” complete and “ we are more likely to get a deal than not ” .
More pessimistic officials have put the odds of a possible agreement at just `` 50/50 '' because of the “ fundamental issues ” still to be resolved .
But even the French Government suggested it is ready to allow Britain to diverge from EU rules .

Brexit: Nigel Farage warns the EU will 'give us nothing'
Boris Johnson is becoming increasingly frustrated and has warned Brussels to decide between a no-deal Brexit or accepting Britain as a sovereign country. The Prime Minister's chief Brexit negotiator Lord Frost has told EU counterpart Michel Barnier he will only remain at the negotiating table while the Frenchman is willing to compromise. Last week, Mr Barnier was ordered by French President Emmanuel Macron to table a series of “eleventh-hour” proposals that left the negotiations close to collapse.
Trending
A UK source close to the talks said: “There won’t be any agreement if the EU doesn’t recognise political reality. “We’ll only keep talking if there is some movement and we think there’s any point.” Mr Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen held talks over the weekend but they reportedly failed to change the "substance" of the negotiations between the UK and EU. Both sides remain at loggerheads over post-Brexit fishing rights, with sources in Brussels believing a "landing zone" is emerging for future access to Britain’s coastal waters.
Brexit news: Express.co.uk readers have lashed out at the EU
Brexit news: Boris Johnson has refused to bow to demands from the EU
But Express.co.uk readers have reacted furiously to the current negotiating stance from the EU and have told the UK to walk away from the negotiating table and leave the bloc without a trade deal in place. One person said: “Negotiations are in a worse place than they were weeks ago when they stopped. "Apparently they only restarted because the EU was changing their position. "Their position certainly has changed, to something even more ridiculous and farfetched. READ MORE: Should Boris walk away after EU’s offer to hand back 18% of fish?
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Brexit news: Michel Barnier is holding further talks in Brussels this week
"Should walk away now." Another reader wrote: "The EU have constantly used blatant lies and open deceit throughout these "Faux" negotiations. "Had the EU had a single ounce of "good Faith" a valid framework could easily have been agreed 10 months ago. "It is now to late for the EU to see sense so we are now continuing these pointless talks purely to score points in the inevitable forthcoming blame game." DON'T MISS
Brexit negotiations latest: What is happening with Brexit now? [ANALYSIS]
'If you were negotiating you'd be a disaster! Vine slams Owen Jones [VIDEO]
Nigel Farage warns Boris Johnson against Brexit 'sell-out' [COMMENT]
Brexit news: Lord Frost arrived in Brussels on Sunday for more talks with the EU
Brexit news: Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen spoke over the weekend
A third person commented: "A no-deal will be painful for some time to come but in five years’ time we and the current doubters will be celebrating our freedom - as well as most probably sharing it with other current member states that have decided to join us in leaving the EU." Another reader simply said: "No more threats. Just walk away!" On Sunday, the UK's chief Brexit negotiator Lord Frost arrived in Brussels for further talks in an attempt to thrash out a deal with less than a month left until the end of the transition period on December 31. He said: “We’re going to be working very hard to get a deal.
Brexit news: Britain is edging closer to cutting all ties with the EU
“We’re going to see what happens in negotiations today and will be looking forward to meeting our European colleagues later this afternoon.” Ireland's Foreign Minister Simon Coveney claimed the Brexit trade deal between the UK and EU is “97 or 98 per cent” complete and “we are more likely to get a deal than not”. More pessimistic officials have put the odds of a possible agreement at just "50/50" because of the “fundamental issues” still to be resolved. But even the French Government suggested it is ready to allow Britain to diverge from EU rules.


thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--Brexit POLL: Should Boris walk away after EU’s offer to hand back 18% of fish? VOTE

With less than a month until the transition period ends on December 31 , both sides are scrambling to secure a deal .
But issues over fishing rights , governance and the level playing field have gridlocked talks .
Under the controversial Commons Fisheries Policy ( CFP ) , all member states are given access to EU waters via quotas .
As the UK has a large coastal area , critics have often argued the system is unfair .
Fishing currently only makes up 0.1 percent of Britain ’ s economy but there are hopes this could increase after Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give back between 15 and 18 percent of all fish caught by EU vessels in British waters has been widely criticised .
Now Express.co.uk is asking whether Boris should walk away from talks following Mr Barnier ’ s offer .
The EU 's offer would be worth just an estimated £105million ( €117million ) .
But the ultimatum by Mr Barnier was attacked by UK ministers who claimed it was unacceptable for Britain .
Michael Gove lashed out at the offer and said the Government do not think the offer is “ fair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK 'wo n't be free of EU fishing rules for 20 years' He said : `` The EU still wants to take the lion ’ s share of the fish in our waters which is just not fair given we are leaving the EU `` The second thing is that the EU still wants us to be tied to their way of doing things .
`` The third thing is what happens if there is a dispute .
`` The EU is at the moment reserving the right if there is a dispute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but really to impose some quite penal and tough restrictions on us .
DO N'T MISS Ireland PANIC : Coveney admits Brexit deal looks very difficult [ REVEAL ] Nigel Farage warns Boris Johnson against Brexit 'sell-out ' [ COMMENT ] Merkel does NOT agree with Macron ’ s fishing demands in Brexit talks [ INSIGHT ] '' We do not think that is fair . ''
Over the weekend , German MEP Manfred Weber admitted Prime Minister Boris Johnson holds the fishing “ leverage ” .
He said : “ Fishing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leverage against the EU , because we are currently profiting a lot from the access to the fishing stocks .
“ This is certainly the biggest leverage GB has.
” Mr Weber went on to explain how Norway is not a member of the EU but the bloc has managed to find “ reasonable solutions ” there .
He continued : “ And you also shouldn ’ t overlook , that even if GB are to fish all the fish they own , they still have to sell it somewhere .
“ Therefore @ @ @ @ @ @ @ having access to the EU single market to sell their fish .
“ Therefore both sides have interests , and I want to repeat that it is now a question of common sense to keep the lose-lose situation , it is a lose-lose situation that GB is leaving , to keep it to a minimum .
”

Jeremy Vine shuts down Owen Jones over Brexit
THIS POLL HAS NOW CLOSED CLICK HERE FOR RESULTS With less than a month until the transition period ends on December 31, both sides are scrambling to secure a deal. But issues over fishing rights, governance and the level playing field have gridlocked talks.
Trending
Under the controversial Commons Fisheries Policy (CFP), all member states are given access to EU waters via quotas. As the UK has a large coastal area, critics have often argued the system is unfair. Fishing currently only makes up 0.1 percent of Britain’s economy but there are hopes this could increase after Brexit. Mr Barnier’s offer to give back between 15 and 18 percent of all fish caught by EU vessels in British waters has been widely criticised.
Should Boris walk away from Brexit talks?
EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier
Now Express.co.uk is asking whether Boris should walk away from talks following Mr Barnier’s offer. The EU's offer would be worth just an estimated £105million (€117million). But the ultimatum by Mr Barnier was attacked by UK ministers who claimed it was unacceptable for Britain. Michael Gove lashed out at the offer and said the Government do not think the offer is “fair”. READ MORE: Brexit: UK 'won't be free of EU fishing rules for 20 years'
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Michael Gove hits back at Barnier's offer
He said: "The EU still wants to take the lion’s share of the fish in our waters which is just not fair given we are leaving the EU "The second thing is that the EU still wants us to be tied to their way of doing things. "The third thing is what happens if there is a dispute. "The EU is at the moment reserving the right if there is a dispute, not quite to rip everything up, but really to impose some quite penal and tough restrictions on us. DON'T MISS
Ireland PANIC: Coveney admits Brexit deal looks very difficult [REVEAL]
Nigel Farage warns Boris Johnson against Brexit 'sell-out' [COMMENT]
Merkel does NOT agree with Macron’s fishing demands in Brexit talks [INSIGHT]
European fishing dependence on British waters
"We do not think that is fair." Over the weekend, German MEP Manfred Weber admitted Prime Minister Boris Johnson holds the fishing “leverage”. He said: “Fishing is certainly Great Britain’s biggest leverage against the EU, because we are currently profiting a lot from the access to the fishing stocks. “This is certainly the biggest leverage GB has.”
German MEP Manfred Weber
Mr Weber went on to explain how Norway is not a member of the EU but the bloc has managed to find “reasonable solutions” there. He continued: “And you also shouldn’t overlook, that even if GB are to fish all the fish they own, they still have to sell it somewhere. “Therefore the British also have an interest in having access to the EU single market to sell their fish. “Therefore both sides have interests, and I want to repeat that it is now a question of common sense to keep the lose-lose situation, it is a lose-lose situation that GB is leaving, to keep it to a minimum.”
UK Brexit negotiator David Frost


thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--Corbyn ally on Labour's ruling body claims Tories are bigger threat than terrorists

Nadia Jama attacked the Government for increasing defence spending by £16billion at a digital event for the fringe group Labour Campaigning for peace and nuclear disarmament last night .
The left-wing activist , who was elected to Labour 's National Executive Committee in November , was joined on the zoom meeting by Mr Corbyn and former shadow cabinet minister Richard Burgon .
Last month Boris Johnson announced he was increasing the defence budget to allow for a `` once-in-a-generation modernisation '' of the armed forces .
The money will be used in part to build a national cyber force to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crime , and hostile states .
But last night Ms Jama dismissed the extra funding as mere `` grandstanding and medieval rhetoric about defence of the realm '' .
She said : `` Who are we defending the UK from ?
READ MORE : Boris Johnson shames Starmer on defence spending after supporting Corbyn '' Seventy percent of children in this country live in poverty and that 's not due to some threat from beyond our shores , it 's down to Tory policies over decades that have driven down living standards and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this dramatically increase during the pandemic and it will continue to get worse if nothing is done .
`` Thousands of job losses , private renters face evictions , and unscrupulous bosses have used fire and re-hire tactics to drive down terms and conditions for workers . ''
Accusing the £16billion of being misspent , she said : `` It 's the corporations and this Tory Government that the British people need protecting from .
READ MORE : Boris to transform Armed Forces with £16.5bn investment '' That £16billion could have been used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should be funding the lives of the millions of people impacted by the coronavirus . ''
She added : `` We should invest in things that make a material difference to our lives , during and after what has been the worst crisis we have faced as a country since the war .
Not weapons and equipment to kill people . ''
The Labour Party 's frontbench welcomed the increase in the defence budget at the time .
DO N'T MISS : Labour civil war as Red Len turns on Keir Starmer [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to surrender to EU 'at final hour ' [ VIDEO ] Keir Starmer 's 'new management ' image declining [ INSIGHT ] Ms Jama 's remarks come despite the head of MI5 warning in October that the UK is facing a `` nasty mix '' of security threats .
Ken McCallum warned terrorism remained a massive problem fro Britain while the actions of hostile states were “ growing in severity and complexity ” .
He warned Russia and China were increasingly looking to target the UK through cyber attacks .
He said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the lookout for : attempts either to steal unique intellectual property that ’ s been generated in that research or potentially to fiddle with the data . ''

Defence budget: Nadia Jama criticises military spending
Nadia Jama attacked the Government for increasing defence spending by £16billion at a digital event for the fringe group Labour Campaigning for peace and nuclear disarmament last night. The left-wing activist, who was elected to Labour's National Executive Committee in November, was joined on the zoom meeting by Mr Corbyn and former shadow cabinet minister Richard Burgon.
Last month Boris Johnson announced he was increasing the defence budget to allow for a "once-in-a-generation modernisation" of the armed forces. The money will be used in part to build a national cyber force to counter the threat of terrorists, organised crime, and hostile states. But last night Ms Jama dismissed the extra funding as mere "grandstanding and medieval rhetoric about defence of the realm". She said: "Who are we defending the UK from? READ MORE: Boris Johnson shames Starmer on defence spending after supporting Corbyn
Nadia Jama said the Tories were the real threat facing Brits
"Seventy percent of children in this country live in poverty and that's not due to some threat from beyond our shores, it's down to Tory policies over decades that have driven down living standards and employment rights. "We've seen this dramatically increase during the pandemic and it will continue to get worse if nothing is done. "Thousands of job losses, private renters face evictions, and unscrupulous bosses have used fire and re-hire tactics to drive down terms and conditions for workers." Accusing the £16billion of being misspent, she said: "It's the corporations and this Tory Government that the British people need protecting from. READ MORE: Boris to transform Armed Forces with £16.5bn investment
Jeremy Corbyn was also on the virtual meeting with Nadia Jama
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Ex-shadow cabinet member Richard Burgon hosted the event
"That £16billion could have been used for so much more. "We should be funding the lives of the millions of people impacted by the coronavirus." She added: "We should invest in things that make a material difference to our lives, during and after what has been the worst crisis we have faced as a country since the war. Not weapons and equipment to kill people." The Labour Party's frontbench welcomed the increase in the defence budget at the time. DON'T MISS:
Labour civil war as Red Len turns on Keir Starmer [UPDATE]
Labour accused of wanting Boris to surrender to EU 'at final hour' [VIDEO]
Keir Starmer's 'new management' image declining [INSIGHT]
Nadia Jama said the UK should use the money to 'invest in things that make a material difference'
Ms Jama's remarks come despite the head of MI5 warning in October that the UK is facing a "nasty mix" of security threats. Ken McCallum warned terrorism remained a massive problem fro Britain while the actions of hostile states were “growing in severity and complexity”. He warned Russia and China were increasingly looking to target the UK through cyber attacks. He said: "There are two bits we are on the lookout for: attempts either to steal unique intellectual property that’s been generated in that research or potentially to fiddle with the data."
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-12-08--Sadiq accused of 'disgraceful waste' of taxpayers' cash on 'stunt smearing British heroes'

London ’ s mayor ordered a review on tearing down landmarks that “ reflect a bygone era ” after Black Lives Matter protests .
But critics said he is “ pandering to statue vandals ” who want to “ smear British heroes ” .
Mr Khan was also attacked for splurging money on the project while slashing police budgets in the city .
He said : “ This is a disgraceful waste of taxpayers ’ cash .
The mayor should not be spending a quarter of a million pounds on a divisive , virtual signalling PR stunt which threatens to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ history.
” Mr Bacon said the review , which also includes all of the capital ’ s plaques and street names , should “ make us all deeply uncomfortable ” .
“ No politician should be allowed to rewrite our nation ’ s history , ” he added .
“ Toppling statues does nothing to resolve today ’ s problems and only hides yesterday ’ s mistakes .
“ Instead of pandering to statue vandals and protesters who want to smear British heroes , the Mayor should focus on Londoners ’ priorities .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for cutting the capital ’ s police by £110million while he hoards a war chest to topple towering British figures.
” Mr Khan announced plans for the commission in June after a statue of Edward Colston , a philanthropist who made his fortune from the slave trade , was toppled by protestors in Bristol .
JUST IN : Boris shoots down Sturgeon 's Brexit threats as SNP threaten trade talks Sir Winston Churchill ’ s statue in Parliament Square was daubed with graffiti branding him a racist during unrest in the capital .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ want the Second World War leader ’ s tribute to be removed .
One of the statues that is likely to be targeted is the Clive of India monument in Whitehall .
Robert Clive orchestrated colonial rule in India and returned to Britain with great wealth .
DO N'T MISS Boris urged to end talks after Barnier offers to hand back 18 % of fish [ POLL ] Owen Jones launches attack on hardline Remainers for Brexit [ COMMENT ] Farage hits back at BBC host as she suggests UK 'compromise ' with @ @ @ @

Sadiq Khan grilled over calls for extra funding in London
London’s mayor ordered a review on tearing down landmarks that “reflect a bygone era” after Black Lives Matter protests. But critics said he is “pandering to statue vandals” who want to “smear British heroes”. Mr Khan was also attacked for splurging money on the project while slashing police budgets in the city.
Trending
Conservative MP Gareth Bacon criticised the costly attempt to “erase” London’s history. He said: “This is a disgraceful waste of taxpayers’ cash. The mayor should not be spending a quarter of a million pounds on a divisive, virtual signalling PR stunt which threatens to erase large swathes of London’s history.” Mr Bacon said the review, which also includes all of the capital’s plaques and street names, should “make us all deeply uncomfortable”. “No politician should be allowed to rewrite our nation’s history,” he added.
Sadiq accused of 'disgraceful waste' of taxpayers' cash on 'stunt smearing British heroes'
Winston Churchill's statue branded with graffiti earlier this year during protests
“Toppling statues does nothing to resolve today’s problems and only hides yesterday’s mistakes. “Instead of pandering to statue vandals and protesters who want to smear British heroes, the Mayor should focus on Londoners’ priorities. “Londoners won’t forgive Khan for cutting the capital’s police by £110million while he hoards a war chest to topple towering British figures.” Mr Khan announced plans for the commission in June after a statue of Edward Colston, a philanthropist who made his fortune from the slave trade, was toppled by protestors in Bristol. JUST IN: Boris shoots down Sturgeon's Brexit threats as SNP threaten trade talks
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In June Churchill's statue was boarded up to protect it from graffiti during BLM protests
Sadiq Khan insists he does not want World War 2 leader’s tribute to be removed
The Edward Colston statue was recovered from Bristol Harbour after it was toppled by protestors
UK Prime Ministers through the years


thedailyexpress--2020-12-08--Boris shoots down Sturgeon's Brexit threats as SNP 'desperate' for EU talks to collapse

Ms Sturgeon and her Constitution Secretary sparked a furious response from Scottish Tories as well as insiders close to Boris Johnson who branded her comments “ wholly inappropriate ” .
Earlier the First Minister of Scotland cast doubt over the UK Government ’ s prospect of securing a Brexit trade deal by the end of the transition period .
Ms Sturgeon during Monday ’ s coronavirus briefing said she was “ increasingly concerned ” about the prospect of the transition period ending on December 31 with “ no trade deal agreed between the UK and EU ” .
Her comments @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who said it was `` inconceivable '' the SNP would vote for any Brexit deal in the House of Commons that gave away rights Scotland had “ enjoyed ” while part of the EU .
Scottish Conservative Brexit and Constitution spokesperson Dean Lockhart MSP accused the SNP of attempting to sabotage UK talks .
He told Express.co.uk : “ Mike Russell reveals yet again the SNP 's destructive true colours by refusing to back any Brexit deal no matter how positive it may be for the people of Scotland .
`` The nationalists @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because they believe it would fuel their ideological and highly damaging pursuit of breaking up the UK . ''
Meanwhile , a No 10 source said the Scottish First Minister ’ s comments were “ not supporting ” the “ difficult situation ” in the ongoing talks .
The source added : “ Nicola Sturgeon ’ s comments are wholly inappropriate , we are negotiating with the EU to secure a deal.
” It comes as Boris Johns and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen have agreed to a meeting in Brussels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stock of the faltering negotiations Despite the commitment to a face-to-face meeting , the pair acknowledged significant differences remained with time running out before current trading arrangements expire at the end of the month .
Express.co.uk understands there is a `` febrile mood '' surrounding the negotiations especially on the thorny issue of future fishing rights along with governance and the so-called level-playing field .
READ MORE : Brexit news : Macron could scupper Scotland ’ s chances of rejoining EU One Whitehall source also told this website : “ The situation is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chances a deal might not be secured.
” Any deal would need to be ratified by Westminster and the European Parliament but Scotland ’ s Constitution Secretary Michael Russell said the SNP would refuse to vote for any trade deal .
Mr Russell said it was `` inconceivable '' that the SNP would vote for any Brexit deal in the House of Commons , despite saying the UK Government should come to an arrangement with the EU for the future beyond the transition period .
Speaking on BBC Radio Scotland 's Good Morning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Scottish Government was preparing to discuss its no deal planning for a third time tomorrow .
He continued : `` Having said that , and I am certainly no fan of Brexit at all , it is better to have some sort of arrangement than no sort of arrangement .
DO N'T MISS : Sturgeon branded ‘ PETTY ’ after FM refused to back the royal visit [ LATEST ] Sturgeon SHAMED as Scottish Secretary blasts independence bid [ INSIGHT ] SNP admits global trade mission plans RELY on UK embassies [ @ @

Brexit: Sturgeon urges government to ‘get real’ in trade talks
Ms Sturgeon and her Constitution Secretary sparked a furious response from Scottish Tories as well as insiders close to Boris Johnson who branded her comments “wholly inappropriate”. Earlier the First Minister of Scotland cast doubt over the UK Government’s prospect of securing a Brexit trade deal by the end of the transition period.
Trending
Ms Sturgeon during Monday’s coronavirus briefing said she was “increasingly concerned” about the prospect of the transition period ending on December 31 with “no trade deal agreed between the UK and EU”. Her comments were echoed by Constitution Secretary Michael Russell who said it was "inconceivable" the SNP would vote for any Brexit deal in the House of Commons that gave away rights Scotland had “enjoyed” while part of the EU. Scottish Conservative Brexit and Constitution spokesperson Dean Lockhart MSP accused the SNP of attempting to sabotage UK talks. He told Express.co.uk: “Mike Russell reveals yet again the SNP's destructive true colours by refusing to back any Brexit deal no matter how positive it may be for the people of Scotland. "The nationalists are desperate for these talks to fail because they believe it would fuel their ideological and highly damaging pursuit of breaking up the UK."
Nicola Sturgeon commented on talks today
Nicola Sturgeon remains concerned about the prospect of a trade deal
Meanwhile, a No 10 source said the Scottish First Minister’s comments were “not supporting” the “difficult situation” in the ongoing talks. The source added: “Nicola Sturgeon’s comments are wholly inappropriate, we are negotiating with the EU to secure a deal.” It comes as Boris Johns and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen have agreed to a meeting in Brussels after a lengthy telephone call to take stock of the faltering negotiations Despite the commitment to a face-to-face meeting, the pair acknowledged significant differences remained with time running out before current trading arrangements expire at the end of the month. Express.co.uk understands there is a "febrile mood" surrounding the negotiations especially on the thorny issue of future fishing rights along with governance and the so-called level-playing field. READ MORE: Brexit news: Macron could scupper Scotland’s chances of rejoining EU
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EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier
One Whitehall source also told this website: “The situation is difficult at the moment and there are chances a deal might not be secured.” Any deal would need to be ratified by Westminster and the European Parliament but Scotland’s Constitution Secretary Michael Russell said the SNP would refuse to vote for any trade deal. Mr Russell said it was "inconceivable" that the SNP would vote for any Brexit deal in the House of Commons, despite saying the UK Government should come to an arrangement with the EU for the future beyond the transition period. Speaking on BBC Radio Scotland's Good Morning Scotland programme, the Constitution Secretary added the Scottish Government was preparing to discuss its no deal planning for a third time tomorrow. He continued: "Having said that, and I am certainly no fan of Brexit at all, it is better to have some sort of arrangement than no sort of arrangement. DON'T MISS:
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Brexit is increasing support for independence, it is understood


thedailyexpress--2020-12-08--Owen Jones launches surprising Brexit attack on hardline Remainers -'All paying the price'

The political commentator and Labour Party activist claimed the UK was now “ paying the price ” as the prospect of a no deal Brexit increases .
It comes as Boris Johnson 's official spokesman said that although time was in `` very short supply '' , Britain would stick at the discussions if an agreement was still possible .
But the comments appeared to be at odds with the EU 's chief negotiator Michel Barnier , who reportedly told MEPs the deadline for talks succeeding is Wednesday .
The Prime Minister 's spokesman told a Westminster briefing : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and we 're in the final stages , but we 're prepared to negotiate for as long as we have time available if we think an agreement is still possible . ''
Mr Jones claimed there were only “ two certainties ” when it came to Brexit .
He said , `` either Britain and the EU will sign off the hardest possible mutually agreed rupture , or the self-inflicted disaster of no deal will become a reality . ''
And in an attack on hardline Remainers , Mr Jones added : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Don ’ t listen to me ; heed the words of Peter Mandelson instead , who has declared that this is 'the price the rest of us in the pro-EU camp will pay for trying , in the years following 2016 , to reverse the referendum decision rather than achieve the least damaging form of Brexit ' .
Much too late .
“ The price that will be paid over a generation or more due to a failure to unite around a compromise is steep indeed.
” It comes as Mr Barnier and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Brussels in a bid to break the stalemate - with just over three weeks until the end of the transition period .
READ MORE : Barnier gloats to EU MEPs that Boris Johnson has backed down on fish The EU negotiator was said to have given a `` downbeat '' and `` gloomy '' assessment of progress in reaching a post-Brexit trade deal in an update to ambassadors from the 27 member states earlier on Monday .
Following these comments , Mr Jones said the UK should have “ settled and fought @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” with the EU .
The political commentator continued : “ But anything other than stopping Brexit was written off as both disastrous for the country and morally untenable .
“ And so here we are , on the verge of the hardest possible Brexit , with all the terrible consequences that entails .
DO N'T MISS : Boris and von der Leyen ’ s Brexit phone call HALTED after 90 minutes [ LATEST ] Macron faces Merkel for talks as French demands hold up Brexit deal [ INSIGHT ] Brexit talks 'hang @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 48 hours left [ REVEAL ]

Jeremy Vine: Owen Jones clashes with caller
The political commentator and Labour Party activist claimed the UK was now “paying the price” as the prospect of a no deal Brexit increases. It comes as Boris Johnson's official spokesman said that although time was in "very short supply", Britain would stick at the discussions if an agreement was still possible.
Trending
But the comments appeared to be at odds with the EU's chief negotiator Michel Barnier, who reportedly told MEPs the deadline for talks succeeding is Wednesday. The Prime Minister's spokesman told a Westminster briefing: "Time is obviously in very short supply and we're in the final stages, but we're prepared to negotiate for as long as we have time available if we think an agreement is still possible." Mr Jones claimed there were only “two certainties” when it came to Brexit. He said, "either Britain and the EU will sign off the hardest possible mutually agreed rupture, or the self-inflicted disaster of no deal will become a reality."
Mr Jones tells Brexiteers: 'Now we're all paying the price'
Time is running out for Brexit trade deal
And in an attack on hardline Remainers, Mr Jones added: "None of this was inevitable. "Don’t listen to me; heed the words of Peter Mandelson instead, who has declared that this is 'the price the rest of us in the pro-EU camp will pay for trying, in the years following 2016, to reverse the referendum decision rather than achieve the least damaging form of Brexit'. Much too late. “The price that will be paid over a generation or more due to a failure to unite around a compromise is steep indeed.” It comes as Mr Barnier and his UK counterpart Lord Frost are negotiating in Brussels in a bid to break the stalemate - with just over three weeks until the end of the transition period. READ MORE: Barnier gloats to EU MEPs that Boris Johnson has backed down on fish
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Nigel Farage, the leader of the Brexit Party
The EU negotiator was said to have given a "downbeat" and "gloomy" assessment of progress in reaching a post-Brexit trade deal in an update to ambassadors from the 27 member states earlier on Monday. Following these comments, Mr Jones said the UK should have “settled and fought” for the “closest possible relationship” with the EU. The political commentator continued: “But anything other than stopping Brexit was written off as both disastrous for the country and morally untenable. “And so here we are, on the verge of the hardest possible Brexit, with all the terrible consequences that entails. DON'T MISS:
Boris and von der Leyen’s Brexit phone call HALTED after 90 minutes [LATEST]
Macron faces Merkel for talks as French demands hold up Brexit deal [INSIGHT]
Brexit talks 'hang in the balance' as Barnier warns 48 hours left [REVEAL]
There is less than four weeks left of the transition period