thedailyexpress--2020-11-23--Hartley-Brewer bets Ashworth £100 as she shames Labour lockdown support 'will do it again'

Julia Hartley-Brewer slammed the Labour Party for lending their support to the Government and allowing Boris Johnson to lockdown the UK for yet another month because of the coronavirus pandemic .
Shadow Health Secretary Jonathan Ashworth insisted his party had not backed the policy `` happily '' but had been moved to support it by the data available at the time .
The talkRADIO presented bet the Labour frontbencher £100 his party would not oppose attempts to impose a third lockdown in the coming months .
After Mr Ashworth insisted the Labour Party will seek reassurances on how to avoid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` Ok ... which the Labour Party will happily vote for .
`` A hundred quid to charity , whenever the next lockdown is announced , you and the rest of the Labour frontbench will happily vote for another lockdown .
`` Without any evidence that it 'll work .
You will vote for it . ''
The shadow Health Secretary replied `` Not happily .
If that is what is proposed , we will consider it , we will consider the details , we will consider the infection rate .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ be first in WORLD to be rolled out as rivals face major storage issue But the response prompted Ms Hartley-Brewer to hit back saying : `` You did n't consider the details the last time . ''
The radio host earlier in the programme had blasted the Labour Party over their support to the Government in the vote to introduce the second lockdown earlier in November .
She said : `` There 's going to be a massive effect on the economy of four million public sector workers not getting a couple of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that bothered about most of the private sector being shut down for a month at a time .
That 's ok , you 'll vote for that . ''
As Mr Ashworth attempted to defend his party 's position , Ms Hartley-Brewer could be seen repeatedly intervening to remind him : `` You voted for it .
You voted for it , Jonathan .
You voted for it . ''
The Labour frontbencher insisted the support for the second , England-wide lockdown was the result of the Government 's failure to `` fix @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaving his party with no option but to back full closure .
He said : `` I am bothered .
I am bothered about it , I do n't want to see it .
It 's why you warn the Government .
`` Back in the summer , we said to the Government if you do n't fix testing and tracing , you 're going to be in a mess .
And they did n't fix test and tracing .
`` I did vote for it , yes .
I did n't want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ put us in a four-week lockdown . ''
Coronavirus explainer : How the crown-wearing viruses infected humans [ INSIGHT ] Foreign Office issues Christmas market warnings for terrorism [ WARNING ] Is Xmas lunch really worth an extended lockdown ?
asks JENNIFER SELWAY [ COMMENT ]

Julia Hartley-Brewer grills Ashworth over lockdown voting
Julia Hartley-Brewer slammed the Labour Party for lending their support to the Government and allowing Boris Johnson to lockdown the UK for yet another month because of the coronavirus pandemic. Shadow Health Secretary Jonathan Ashworth insisted his party had not backed the policy "happily" but had been moved to support it by the data available at the time. The talkRADIO presented bet the Labour frontbencher £100 his party would not oppose attempts to impose a third lockdown in the coming months.
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After Mr Ashworth insisted the Labour Party will seek reassurances on how to avoid a third lockdown, Ms Hartley- Brewer said: "Ok...which the Labour Party will happily vote for. "A hundred quid to charity, whenever the next lockdown is announced, you and the rest of the Labour frontbench will happily vote for another lockdown. "Without any evidence that it'll work. You will vote for it." The shadow Health Secretary replied "Not happily. If that is what is proposed, we will consider it, we will consider the details, we will consider the infection rate." JUST IN: Oxford vaccine could be first in WORLD to be rolled out as rivals face major storage issue
Hartley-Brewer slammed Ashworth for Labour supporting the second lockdown
Hartley-Brewer appeared unimpressed with Ashworth's justification of Labour
But the response prompted Ms Hartley-Brewer to hit back saying: "You didn't consider the details the last time." The radio host earlier in the programme had blasted the Labour Party over their support to the Government in the vote to introduce the second lockdown earlier in November. She said: "There's going to be a massive effect on the economy of four million public sector workers not getting a couple of percent pay rise but you're not that bothered about most of the private sector being shut down for a month at a time. That's ok, you'll vote for that." As Mr Ashworth attempted to defend his party's position, Ms Hartley-Brewer could be seen repeatedly intervening to remind him: "You voted for it. You voted for it, Jonathan. You voted for it." READ MORE: Brexit trade deal mindgames: Michel Barnier subtly MOCKS Boris with hidden Twitter jab
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Matt Hancock predicts normality can return 'after Easter'
The Labour Party had to back the lockdown after the Government failed to "fix" track and trace, Ashworth claimed
The Labour frontbencher insisted the support for the second, England-wide lockdown was the result of the Government's failure to "fix" the test and tracing system, leaving his party with no option but to back full closure. He said: "I am bothered. I am bothered about it, I don't want to see it. It's why you warn the Government. "Back in the summer, we said to the Government if you don't fix testing and tracing, you're going to be in a mess. And they didn't fix test and tracing. "I did vote for it, yes. I didn't want to, I didn't want to put us in a four-week lockdown." DON'T MISS: Coronavirus explainer: How the crown-wearing viruses infected humans [INSIGHT]
Foreign Office issues Christmas market warnings for terrorism [WARNING]
Is Xmas lunch really worth an extended lockdown? asks JENNIFER SELWAY [COMMENT]
Labour will consider the evidence should the Government propose a third lockdown


thedailyexpress--2020-11-23--'They can sling their hook!' Britons furious as France warns UK fishing terms WON'T change

France has been fervently opposed to any changes to the current fishing policies in a post-Brexit trade with the UK .
The hardline stance has caused havoc in negotiations , and the latest claims by the French have infuriated Express.co.uk readers .
Nathalie Loiseau , a close ally of President Emmanuel Macron , has claimed the CFP has `` so far been a success '' .
When questioned by Sky News ' Sophy Ridge whether it was right for British fishermen to have access to more fish , the French MEP responded : `` Why should we ruin something that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ furious response from Express.co.uk readers , who took to the comment section to state the CFP has not been beneficial for British trawlers .
One person said : `` 'Thanks ' to the common fisheries policy , we have lost almost half our fishing fleet over the past 30 years and become a net importer of fish netted in our waters !
`` It is time to take back that which is rightfully ours ! ''
A second reader wrote : `` The Common Fisheries Policy has been a huge success for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` It allowed them to gain control of the UK 's natural resource our fisheries .
`` That is a mistake we made that is being rectified .
JUST IN : Michel Barnier subtly MOCKS Boris with hidden Twitter jab Readers continued to mock Ms Loiseau 's claim the CFP has been beneficial for all states .
One person said : `` The CFP decimated British fishing when it was introduced .
`` We do n't give a damn now about how EU fishermen will suffer as a result of the UK leaving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the EU gave a damn when British fishermen had to sell or moor their boats while their business were closing down in droves .

Brexit: French fishermen on 'catastrophe' of losing UK waters
France has been fervently opposed to any changes to the current fishing policies in a post-Brexit trade with the UK. The hardline stance has caused havoc in negotiations, and the latest claims by the French have infuriated Express.co.uk readers.
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Nathalie Loiseau, a close ally of President Emmanuel Macron, has claimed the CFP has "so far been a success". When questioned by Sky News' Sophy Ridge whether it was right for British fishermen to have access to more fish, the French MEP responded: "Why should we ruin something that works?" The exchange provoked a furious response from Express.co.uk readers, who took to the comment section to state the CFP has not been beneficial for British trawlers. One person said: "'Thanks' to the common fisheries policy, we have lost almost half our fishing fleet over the past 30 years and become a net importer of fish netted in our waters!
Britons have reacted furiously after France warned it will not budge on its hardline fishing stance
France has been fervently opposed to any changes to the current fishing policies
"It is time to take back that which is rightfully ours!" A second reader wrote: "The Common Fisheries Policy has been a huge success for the French, and other EU countries. "It allowed them to gain control of the UK's natural resource our fisheries. "That is a mistake we made that is being rectified. JUST IN: Michel Barnier subtly MOCKS Boris with hidden Twitter jab
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Nathalie Loiseau, a close ally of President Emmanuel Macron, has claimed the CFP has "so far been a success"
Michel Barnier is the EU's chief Brexit negotiator
Whitehall officials are confident a deal can be secured by November 30th
Readers continued to mock Ms Loiseau's claim the CFP has been beneficial for all states. One person said: "The CFP decimated British fishing when it was introduced. "We don't give a damn now about how EU fishermen will suffer as a result of the UK leaving the EU. "No one in the EU gave a damn when British fishermen had to sell or moor their boats while their business were closing down in droves.
Brexit news: What needs to happen for a Brexit deal to be signed off?


thedailyexpress--2020-11-23--Joe Biden picks Brexit-hater, who compared EU exit to Le Pen in France, for top USA job

President-elect Mr Biden will name Antony Blinken as secretary of state as early as early as Tuesday , according to US sources .
Mr Blinken is a longtime Mr Biden confidant who served as Number 2 at the State Department and as deputy national security adviser in President Barack Obama 's administration , in which the president-elect served as vice president .
But the appointment may not be good news for the UK as Mr Blinken once described Britain ’ s decision to exit the EU as a “ total mess ” and compared it to far-right Marine Le Pen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the Pod Save the World podcast , Mr Blinken previously described the UK ’ s handling of Brexit as “ the dog that caught the car and then the car goes into reverse and runs over the dog .
It ’ s a total mess '' .
He said “ our interests would have been in keeping Britain in ” .
Mr Blinken said “ so many young Brits who feel like they had had the rug pulled out from under them ” .
He also said Britain 's exit from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ireland would be `` a heck of a lot tougher '' .
He also waded into the row over Prime Minister Boris Johnson ’ s UK Internal Market Bill , throwing his weight behind Mr Biden who warned the UK it must honour the Northern Irish peace deal as it extracts itself from the EU or there would be no US trade deal .
READ MORE : Boris Johnson issues checkmate warning to EU over deal - 'Time is up' He previously said : `` As much of a burden as it sometimes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ terms of our interests and the lives of Americans are much worse . ''
People familiar with his management style describe Mr Blinken as a `` diplomat 's diplomat , '' deliberative and relatively soft-spoken , but well-versed in the nuts and bolts of foreign policy .
But Mr Johnson has vowed his government will have close ties with the US under President-elect Mr Biden , sharing an interest in tackling climate change among other issues .
Mr Trump has been a good ally for Mr Johnson as he seeks to negotiate a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit and has reservations about the Prime Minister , who he once likened to a `` physical and emotional clone '' of Mr Trump .
Mr Biden is also set to name Linda Thomas-Greenfield as ambassador to the UN and longtime aide and foreign policy veteran , Jake Sullivan the US national security adviser .

Joe Biden to visit England ‘first’ when President says Kaufman
President-elect Mr Biden will name Antony Blinken as secretary of state as early as early as Tuesday, according to US sources. Mr Blinken is a longtime Mr Biden confidant who served as Number 2 at the State Department and as deputy national security adviser in President Barack Obama's administration, in which the president-elect served as vice president.
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But the appointment may not be good news for the UK as Mr Blinken once described Britain’s decision to exit the EU as a “total mess” and compared it to far-right Marine Le Pen’s rise in France. Speaking on the Pod Save the World podcast, Mr Blinken previously described the UK’s handling of Brexit as “the dog that caught the car and then the car goes into reverse and runs over the dog. It’s a total mess". He said “our interests would have been in keeping Britain in”.
President-elect Joe Biden will name Antony Blinken as secretary of state
Antony Blinken once branded Brexit a 'total mess'
Mr Blinken said “so many young Brits who feel like they had had the rug pulled out from under them”. He also said Britain's exit from the bloc would mean maintaining peace in Northern Ireland would be "a heck of a lot tougher". He also waded into the row over Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s UK Internal Market Bill, throwing his weight behind Mr Biden who warned the UK it must honour the Northern Irish peace deal as it extracts itself from the EU or there would be no US trade deal. READ MORE: Boris Johnson issues checkmate warning to EU over deal - 'Time is up'
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Joe Biden has set himself on a collision course with Boris Johnson over Brexit
Joe Biden opposes Brexit and has reservations about the Prime Minister Boris Johnson
Boris Johnson has vowed his government will have close ties with the US under President-elect Joe Biden
He previously said: "As much of a burden as it sometimes seems to play ... the alternative in terms of our interests and the lives of Americans are much worse." People familiar with his management style describe Mr Blinken as a "diplomat's diplomat," deliberative and relatively soft-spoken, but well-versed in the nuts and bolts of foreign policy. But Mr Johnson has vowed his government will have close ties with the US under President-elect Mr Biden, sharing an interest in tackling climate change among other issues.
US' military power mapped
Mr Trump has been a good ally for Mr Johnson as he seeks to negotiate a trade deal. But Mr Biden opposes Brexit and has reservations about the Prime Minister, who he once likened to a "physical and emotional clone" of Mr Trump. Mr Biden is also set to name Linda Thomas-Greenfield as ambassador to the UN and longtime aide and foreign policy veteran, Jake Sullivan the US national security adviser.


thedailyexpress--2020-11-23--Brexit LIVE: Don't threaten us! Desperate Barnier lashes out 'This is set IN STONE'

Whitehall officials are confident a deal can be secured by November 30 so draft legislation can be passed .
But the EU is remaining more cautious with any deal having to be ratified by the 27 member states before the end of December .
Whitehall sources told Express.co.uk Boris Johnson was “ optimistic ” on a deal but stressed any deal “ needs to strictly be ” in the UK ’ s interests .
One told Express.co.uk : “ This week is the turning point in the talks , time is running out .
“ It ’ s essentially a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ requests and are not backing down.
” Talks will begin virtually today after a member of Michel Barnier ’ s team tested positive for COVID-19 last time and could be face to face in London as early as Thursday .
As Express.co.uk exclusively revealed on Saturday , it is hoped draft legislation could be debated before the Commons as early as next week .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak told BBC Andrew Marr yesterday the UK should not be going for a Brexit deal `` at any price '' , European Commission president Ursula von @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there had been `` better progress '' towards reaching an agreement .
Boris Johnson has talked up the chances of a post-Brexit UK-Australia free trade deal being secured .
The Prime Minister was speaking after his Australian counterpart Scott Morrison received an accolade at a virtual Policy Exchange think tank event .
Mr Johnson said the two nations had strong rivalries in sport , but `` there is a huge amount that unites us '' .
1:15pm update : Brexit deal by 'end of the week ' , says Irish PM Irish premier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the outline of a Brexit deal can be reached by the end of the week .
Speaking to reporters from Dublin Port on Monday , the Taoiseach was upbeat about the prospects of a deal .
He said : `` ( European Commission ) President Ursula Von der Leyen did say to the EU leaders last Thursday night that there are texts now on all areas .
`` I would be hopeful that by the end of this week we could see the outline of a deal .
`` That remains to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ political will .
One must remain hopeful that a deal can be arrived at . ''
EU chiefs have insisted there will be no extension to the Brexit deadline despite growing fears of a no deal .
The EU Commission spokesman said today : “ You either have a deal or you don ’ t have a deal .
“ There is no possibility to extend the Transition Period beyond that point [ January 1 ] .
That date is set in stone.
” Michel Barnier said UK-European Union trade negotiations were continuing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positive for coronavirus .
The EU 's lead negotiator said : `` Time is short .
Fundamental divergences still remain , but we are continuing to work hard for a deal . ''
Fishermen have issued an ultimatum to the EU , warning Michel Barnier he can work with Boris Johnson and Lord Frost or face chaos with no-deal .
The Scottish Fishermen 's Federation ( SFF ) submitted evidence to Holyrood ’ s Europe Committee warning the UK must control access of non-UK vessels to the UK ’ s Exclusive Economic Zone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the group , which represents Scottish fishermen , warned the EU ’ s mandate was “ unrealistic ” in demanding little change from the current arrangement under the Common Fisheries Policy ( CAP ) , which the UK will leave on December 31st .
Joe Biden is set to name a man who once described Brexit as a `` total mess '' as his new Secretary of State when he enters the White House .
President-elect Mr Biden will name Antony Blinken as secretary of state as early as early as Tuesday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Blinken is a longtime Mr Biden confidant who served as Number 2 at the State Department and as deputy national security adviser in President Barack Obama 's administration , in which the president-elect served as vice president .
But the appointment may not be good news for the UK as Mr Blinken once described Britain ’ s decision to exit the EU as a “ total mess ” and compared it to far-right Marine Le Pen ’ s rise in France .
Speaking on the Pod Save the World podcast , Mr Blinken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Brexit as “ the dog that caught the car and then the car goes into reverse and runs over the dog .
It ’ s a total mess '' .
9:30am update : Farage slams EU over additional taxpayer money sent to Brussels Nigel Farage has condemned the “ fraudulent ” EU after it emerged billions of pounds of British taxpayers ' cash could have been squandered by the Brussels club .
The leader of Reform UK said a damning report , which found British taxpayers ’ cash was `` affected by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ final year of Brussels membership , proved why the UK “ should have left this fraudulent club a long time ago ” .
Brexiteer Mr Farage said : `` We should have fully left this fraudulent club a long time ago .
Billions of hard-earned taxpayers ' money wasted . ''
A French MEP has said that British politicians should refrain from using `` rhetoric or vocabulary '' to describe the EU as adversaries , as Brexit negotiations continue .
Nathalie Loiseau said : `` I am a politician , I am neither @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do everything we can to get a good deal , whether it is possible under this time pressure , honestly I do n't know .
I will not tell you we are nearly there because there are still big divergences . ''
Ms Loiseau said `` clarity '' was still needed on both sides for negotiations to be concluded , adding : `` We are offering an unprecedented partnership with the UK , but this comes with clarity and commitments , and so far they are missing .
`` I would like to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or a vocabulary as if we were adversaries fighting against each other .
`` We are struggling to build a strong partnership for our future .
This is what we owe to our fellow citizens on both sides . ''
Paul Johnson , director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies ( IFS ) , said there was still much uncertainty about both the long and short-term impacts of a Brexit deal .
`` Even the best deal we could get would have been counted as one of the hardest imaginable Brexits three or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ look at this , '' he told the Andrew Marr show , referring to economic modelling done by the IFS .
`` That sort of deal will result , at best , in the economy growing less quickly than it otherwise would have done .
`` It is worth saying that , especially in the context of coronavirus , there 's just such uncertainty about what the impact is going to be , and particularly the short-term impact . ''

Brexit: French fishermen on 'catastrophe' of losing UK waters
The Prime Minister remains confident a deal can be secured with talks entering their final week as civil servants start to draft EU relationship legislation. With the transition period due to end on December 31st, a deal is yet to be struck between UK and EU negotiators as fishing, governance and the level playing field remain significant stumbling blocks.
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Whitehall officials are confident a deal can be secured by November 30 so draft legislation can be passed. But the EU is remaining more cautious with any deal having to be ratified by the 27 member states before the end of December. Whitehall sources told Express.co.uk Boris Johnson was “optimistic” on a deal but stressed any deal “needs to strictly be” in the UK’s interests. One told Express.co.uk: “This week is the turning point in the talks, time is running out.
The latest round of talks get underway this week
“It’s essentially a checkmate, we are laying down our requests and are not backing down.” Talks will begin virtually today after a member of Michel Barnier’s team tested positive for COVID-19 last time and could be face to face in London as early as Thursday. As Express.co.uk exclusively revealed on Saturday, it is hoped draft legislation could be debated before the Commons as early as next week. Chancellor Rishi Sunak told BBC Andrew Marr yesterday the UK should not be going for a Brexit deal "at any price", European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen, meanwhile, indicated that there had been "better progress" towards reaching an agreement. FOLLOW EXPRESS.CO.UK FOR THE LATEST:
10.30pm update: Brexit deal done in DAYS as Boris phones Von der Leyen to secure trade agreement with EU Boris Johnson is ready to intervene in Brexit trade negotiations amid rising hopes a deal can be secured soon. Downing Street said there are still issues that need to be resolved as talks resumed today. But the Prime Minister and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are poised to talk to push an agreement over the line. 10pm update: EU chief Michel praises Biden’s ‘CLEAR support’ for bloc in spat over Boris’ Brexit plot European Council chief Charles Michel tonight praised Joe Biden's scathing criticism of British plans to rip up the Brexit divorce deal. After a phone call between the pair, Mr Michel claimed the President-elect had shown “clear support” for the bloc in the row over Downing Street’s Internal Market Bill. Brussels is furious at Boris Johnson’s plans to ignore sections of last year’s Withdrawal Agreement relating to Northern Ireland. But the Prime Minister has been adamant that the legislation is designed to protect food supplies to the province if negotiations break down between the EU and UK. 8.50pm update: Jens Stoltenberg invites Biden to rebuild transatlantic ties The head of NATO and a top European Union official on Monday invited US President-elect Joe Biden to rebuild transatlantic ties and meet with Washington's European allies next year. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and European Council President Charles Michel, in phone calls with Biden, congratulated him on his election win and invited him to visit the military alliance's headquarters in Brussels, which is also the hub of the 27-nation EU. Stoltenberg thanked Biden "for being a long-standing supporter of NATO and the transatlantic relationship," according to a statement by the military alliance, while Michel "proposed to rebuild ... strong transatlantic" ties, his office said. As the EU grapples with the historic setback of Brexit, the bloc's statement also highlighted Biden's support for preserving peace and stability on the sensitive Irish border despite Britain leaving the EU. Biden has told London it must honour its 2020 divorce deal with the EU as it protects peace on the island of Ireland, or else there will be no US trade deal for Britain. That comes as a welcome change of tone from Washington for the EU, which has often locked horns with President Donald Trump who has praised Brexit, pulled the United States out of a global climate pact and has been openly hostile to NATO, lambasting its European allies for spending too little on defence.
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French President Emmanuel Macron
8.25pm update: Frexit NOW and quick! Macron issued major warning as anti-EU campaign erupts Brexit momentum appears to be building as anti-Brussels sentiment quickly spreads across Emmanuel Macron's nation following Britain's momentous decision to leave the EU. Rising disenchantment with the dealings of EU officials is not just confined to Brexit Britain, with anti-Brussels feelings seemingly growing in France. It comes as the European Commission expressed concerns over the increase in salaries for French healthcare workers during the COVID-19 crisis. 7.25pm update: EU's Michel invites Biden to 'rebuild' trans-Atlantic alliance A top European Union official, in a phone call with Joe Biden on Monday, invited the U.S. president-elect to rebuild "a strong trans-Atlantic alliance" and attend a meeting with the bloc's 27 national leaders next year, his office said. European Council President Charles Michel congratulated Biden on his election and, in a 20-minute call on Monday evening, invited him to a special meeting in 2021 with EU heads in the bloc's hub Brussels, which is also home to NATO headquarters. "During the call President Michel proposed to rebuild a strong transatlantic alliance based on common interests and shared values," Michel's office said in a statement. "He welcomed the strong commitment of President-elect Biden to America's allies and his support for European cooperation." As the EU grapples with the historic setback of Brexit, the bloc's statement also highlighted Biden's support for preserving peace and stability on the sensitive Irish border despite Britain leaving the EU. Biden has warned London it must honour its 2020 Brexit divorce deal with the EU as it protects peace on the island of Ireland, or else there will be no U.S. trade deal for Britain. That comes as a welcome change of tone from Washington for the EU, which has often locked horns with Donald Trump who has praised Brexit, pulled the United States out from a global climate pact and has been openly hostile to NATO, lambasting its European allies for spending too little on defence.
Michel invites Biden to rebuild alliance
6.50pm update: Brexit fury: Boris Johnson ‘will U-turn and accept EU terms’ Brexit trade talks will see Boris Johnson U-turn and accept EU terms, an MEP has predicted as the deadline for a deal looms. The stunning claim was made by Philippe Lambert, Belgian MEP and president of the European Greens as Brexit trade talks move closer to a conclusion. He said Dominic Cummings' departure from Government last week was "probably the sign that Johnson has begun his U-turn and will, in the end, accept EU conditions". A UK official hit back, however, saying David Frost and the UK negotiating team are "completely focused on the negotiations". They added: "I guess the reason the EU feel the need to say these sorts of things is that they are starting to realise that we meant it when we said there were fundamental principles from which we couldn’t move.” 5.45pm update: Government defeat as peers back stronger engagement with devolved nations Peers have inflicted a further Government defeat in backing moves aimed at ensuring the devolved administrations are involved in the future operation of the UK internal market post-Brexit. The House of Lords supported by 319 votes to 242, majority 77, steps to force the British Government to seek the consent of Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland before ministers are allowed to exercise powers contained in controversial legislation. The Labour-led change to the Internal Market Bill went further than the offer of consultation made by the Government. However, while it requires the Secretary of State to seek the agreement of the devolved nations before making regulations, it also makes provision to avoid the threat of a veto. If consent is not given within a month, the minister can press ahead but must publish a statement explaining why they have done so. The legislation has already suffered a string of defeats in the upper house, with peers voting overwhelmingly to strip out law-breaking powers that would enable ministers to override parts of the Brexit divorce deal - known as the Withdrawal Agreement - brokered with Brussels last year. Speaking at the Bill's report stage, business minister Lord Callanan said the Government had listened in bringing forward proposed changes to the Bill, which he said "put beyond doubt our commitment to consult each of the devolved administrations if any of the relevant powers are used". He added: "However, once consultation is undertaken the right place for final decisions should be back in Parliament where parliamentarians from all parts of the United Kingdom can debate and vote on the proposed use of these powers." Labour frontbencher Baroness Hayter of Kentish Town said there was an expectation that "any regulation about the functioning of a market across four nations... be made in partnership with those other three participants". Highlighting the changes she wanted to the Bill, she said: "They don't hand a veto to any one of the devolved authorities. What they do is take further the very welcome admission by the Government... that it would be unthinkable to make regulations affecting devolved competencies without consulting their governments and legislatures. "Our further step is to add a bit of 'grip' to the consultation by making it a real, proper involvement. "It won't cause any delay but it would ensure that there's no risk of any tokenism in the consultation."
Ireland's Micheal Martin
5.15pm update: Ireland Brexit panic: Businesses to get ‘into their heads’ change is coming in January Ireland's leader Micheal Martin has warned businesses to get “into their heads” change is coming following Brexit. The Brexit transition period will end in December with or without a trade deal between Britain and the European Union agreed. But during negotiations, concerns were raised about customs deals between Northern Ireland and the Republic. But now, Taoiseach Micheal Martin has warned businesses to “get ready” for change and ruled out any possibility of a grace period for business after the transition period ends. 3.50pm update: ‘We WON’T pay the price!’ MEP rebellion brews over plans to force rubber-stamp Brexit deal Furious MEPs have hit out amid fears they will be bounced into green-lighting a Brexit trade and security deal in a matter of weeks. The European Parliament now expects to be forced to hold a last-gasp voting session on the future relationship agreement on December 28. Senior MEPs have voiced frustration at the lack of time they will be given to properly scrutinise the legal texts with talks expected to run into December. Bernd Lange, the EU Parliament’s trade chief, fumed: “It’s already five past midnight. We need a text, otherwise ratification and democratic scrutiny by the European Parliament will be a farce.”
Brexit latest: The UK is in a 'Checkmate' position
3pm update: Steven Brown takes over from Richard Percival 2:45pm update: Simple fisheries agreement is the position, says PM The UK wants a "simple separate fisheries framework" and that remains the position, Boris Johnson's spokesperson has said. When asked about a possible call with EU President Ursula von der Leyen and Mr Johnson, the spokesperson added this afternoon: "We will set out UK's PM Johnson calls in the usual way." 2pm update: Australia Brexit trade deal on the cards? Boris Johnson has talked up the chances of a post-Brexit UK-Australia free trade deal being secured. The Prime Minister was speaking after his Australian counterpart Scott Morrison received an accolade at a virtual Policy Exchange think tank event. Mr Johnson said the two nations had strong rivalries in sport, but "there is a huge amount that unites us". 1:15pm update: Brexit deal by 'end of the week', says Irish PM Irish premier Micheal Martin has said he is hopeful that the outline of a Brexit deal can be reached by the end of the week. Speaking to reporters from Dublin Port on Monday, the Taoiseach was upbeat about the prospects of a deal. He said: "(European Commission) President Ursula Von der Leyen did say to the EU leaders last Thursday night that there are texts now on all areas. "I would be hopeful that by the end of this week we could see the outline of a deal. "That remains to be seen. It's down to political will. One must remain hopeful that a deal can be arrived at."
Ursula von der Leyen remains confident a deal can be secured
12:30pm update: EU issues warning over deadline EU chiefs have insisted there will be no extension to the Brexit deadline despite growing fears of a no deal. The EU Commission spokesman said today: “You either have a deal or you don’t have a deal. “There is no possibility to extend the Transition Period beyond that point [January 1]. That date is set in stone.” 11:45am update: Michel Barnier updates on talks Michel Barnier said UK-European Union trade negotiations were continuing online after one of his team tested positive for coronavirus. The EU's lead negotiator said: "Time is short. Fundamental divergences still remain, but we are continuing to work hard for a deal." 11am update: British fishermen send a ferocious warning to EU as final decision looms Fishermen have issued an ultimatum to the EU, warning Michel Barnier he can work with Boris Johnson and Lord Frost or face chaos with no-deal. The Scottish Fishermen's Federation (SFF) submitted evidence to Holyrood’s Europe Committee warning the UK must control access of non-UK vessels to the UK’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). In the paper, the group, which represents Scottish fishermen, warned the EU’s mandate was “unrealistic” in demanding little change from the current arrangement under the Common Fisheries Policy (CAP), which the UK will leave on December 31st. 10:15am update: Biden picks anti-Brexit politician for top White House role Joe Biden is set to name a man who once described Brexit as a "total mess" as his new Secretary of State when he enters the White House.
President-elect Mr Biden will name Antony Blinken as secretary of state as early as early as Tuesday, according to US sources. Mr Blinken is a longtime Mr Biden confidant who served as Number 2 at the State Department and as deputy national security adviser in President Barack Obama's administration, in which the president-elect served as vice president.
But the appointment may not be good news for the UK as Mr Blinken once described Britain’s decision to exit the EU as a “total mess” and compared it to far-right Marine Le Pen’s rise in France.
Speaking on the Pod Save the World podcast, Mr Blinken previously described the UK’s handling of Brexit as “the dog that caught the car and then the car goes into reverse and runs over the dog. It’s a total mess".
Brexit: French fishermen on 'catastrophe' of losing UK waters


thedailyexpress--2020-11-23--Christmas cancelled! Sturgeon warns Scotland December lockdown changes will be 'slight'

Nicola Sturgeon said she hopes to give details by the end of the week - despite Mr Johnson setting out his plans later today for a strengthened three-tier system when England 's nationwide lockdown ends next month in the run-up to Christmas .
Speaking at the daily briefing , the First Minister said : `` We 're making progress towards a common position across the UK , which we think is important because of family patterns .
`` But I think it 's important for me to be clear that the details of this approach are still to be finalised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a position to confirm our conclusions later in the week .
`` I know there is a lot of understandable speculation about what may be allowed but I urge everyone to wait until we 've reached that final conclusion .
`` I 'm going to be pretty frank with you here , this is at a time where every decision seems to be difficult to get the right balance .
READ MORE : SNP aide warns of 'leadership damage ' over independence obsession '' This is a particularly difficult balance to strike @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mixed as you expect it to be . ''
Mr Johnson will set out the basis of plans to allow a small number of households across the UK to mix over a limited number of days around Christmas , but is not expected to be in a position to give the specifics .
Downing Street will hope an easing at Christmas , potential vaccines on the horizon and new scientific evidence will lessen the scale of a rebellion , with the Government 's Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( Sage ) expected to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tiers were not strong enough .
But the CRG , led by former Brexit minister Steve Baker and ex-chief whip Mark Harper , warned against any post-Christmas increase in restrictions to counteract the relaxation in a letter to the Prime Minister signed by 70 Tories .
A free-for-all approach to Christmas could result in Ireland being plunged into another period of lockdown in January , a Dublin government minister has warned .
Ireland is due to leave Level 5 restrictions on December 1 , with the Government set to announce plans to move @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Pippa Hackett , Minister of State in the Department for Agriculture , ruled out a complete reopening of society for Christmas .
`` There is no point indicating to people we are going to open up for two weeks at Christmas because that is just a free for all , '' she told RTE 's The Week In Politics programme .
Britain ’ s future is bright once coronavirus is gone says LEO McKINSTRY [ COMMENT ] A daily glass of orange juice could prevent a COVID infection [ ANALYSIS ] Hancock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be 'first ' to get vaccine [ VIDEO ]

Nicola Sturgeon reveals Christmas lockdown plans ‘not finalised’
Nicola Sturgeon said she hopes to give details by the end of the week - despite Mr Johnson setting out his plans later today for a strengthened three-tier system when England's nationwide lockdown ends next month in the run-up to Christmas. Speaking at the daily briefing, the First Minister said: "We're making progress towards a common position across the UK, which we think is important because of family patterns.
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"But I think it's important for me to be clear that the details of this approach are still to be finalised. "We hope we will be in a position to confirm our conclusions later in the week. "I know there is a lot of understandable speculation about what may be allowed but I urge everyone to wait until we've reached that final conclusion. "I'm going to be pretty frank with you here, this is at a time where every decision seems to be difficult to get the right balance. READ MORE: SNP aide warns of 'leadership damage' over independence obsession
Nicola Sturgeon has warned that details surrounding Christmas socialising have not been finalised
Nicola Sturgeon said the four nations are making progress on talks about Christmas restrictions
"This is a particularly difficult balance to strike and public opinion on this is quite mixed as you expect it to be." Mr Johnson will set out the basis of plans to allow a small number of households across the UK to mix over a limited number of days around Christmas, but is not expected to be in a position to give the specifics. Downing Street will hope an easing at Christmas, potential vaccines on the horizon and new scientific evidence will lessen the scale of a rebellion, with the Government's Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) expected to publish papers on Monday saying the previous tiers were not strong enough. But the CRG, led by former Brexit minister Steve Baker and ex-chief whip Mark Harper, warned against any post-Christmas increase in restrictions to counteract the relaxation in a letter to the Prime Minister signed by 70 Tories.
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Boris Johnson will set out the basis of plans later today
Nicola Sturgeon: ‘Believe me’ COVID restrictions are ‘essential’
A free-for-all approach to Christmas could result in Ireland being plunged into another period of lockdown in January, a Dublin government minister has warned. Ireland is due to leave Level 5 restrictions on December 1, with the Government set to announce plans to move forward within the next number of days. Pippa Hackett, Minister of State in the Department for Agriculture, ruled out a complete reopening of society for Christmas. "There is no point indicating to people we are going to open up for two weeks at Christmas because that is just a free for all," she told RTE's The Week In Politics programme. DON'T MISS Britain’s future is bright once coronavirus is gone says LEO McKINSTRY [COMMENT]
A daily glass of orange juice could prevent a COVID infection [ANALYSIS]
Hancock stuns Ferrari as he claims he could be 'first' to get vaccine [VIDEO]
Coronavirus map


thedailyexpress--2020-11-24--Brexit deal done in DAYS as Boris phones Von der Leyen to secure trade agreement with EU

Downing Street said there are still issues that need to be resolved as talks resumed today .
But the Prime Minister and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are poised to talk to push an agreement over the line .
Irish premier Micheal Martin fuelled hopes of a breakthrough being made within days .
He said : “ I would be hopeful that by the end of this week we could see the outline of a deal .
“ That remains to be seen .
It ’ s down to political will .
One must remain hopeful that a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government sources warned the assessment was “ optimistic ” .
MPs and MEPs are facing emergency sittings to rush through any deal before the end of the year .
No 10 said Parliament has shown that it can “ act at pace ” when it needs to pass legislation swiftly .
Brussels is hoping to have a pact signed off by Monday to allow legislation to be passed in the European Parliament at a special sitting on December 28 .
Talks resumed online today after they were brought to an abrupt halt last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for coronavirus .
READ MORE ON OUR BREXIT LIVE BLOG Negotiators Lord Frost and Michel Barnier are expected to meet face to face again at the end of the week .
Mr Barnier said : “ Time is short .
Fundamental divergences still remain , but we are continuing to work hard for a deal.
” Fishing rights and state subsidies are the key outstanding issues holding up progress .
A No 10 spokesman said the UK has been very clear that it will become an independent coastal nation .
DO N'T MISS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and here 's why [ COMMENT ] MEP rebellion brews over plans to force vote on Brexit deal [ LATEST ] We 're about to find out if snowflakes now rule Brexit Britain [ ANALYSIS ] Boris Johnson will be forced to talk to Von der Leyen over the phone while he self isolates for coronavirus “ We will take back control of access to our waters , ” he added .
The spokesman insisted there will not be any extension to the transition period .
Brussels sources expect a last-minute trade-off on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Britain ’ s coastal waters to help get a deal across the line .
EU Parliament Brexit representative Christophe Hansen said the bloc would have to be prepared to meet Boris Johnson ’ s fisheries demands in order to clinch an agreement .

Brexit deal will be done ‘in next days’ says Katya Adler
Downing Street said there are still issues that need to be resolved as talks resumed today. But the Prime Minister and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are poised to talk to push an agreement over the line.
Irish premier Micheal Martin fuelled hopes of a breakthrough being made within days. He said: “I would be hopeful that by the end of this week we could see the outline of a deal. “That remains to be seen. It’s down to political will. One must remain hopeful that a deal can be arrived at.” But Government sources warned the assessment was “optimistic”.
Boris Johnson and Ursula Von der Leyen are set to talk this week
MPs and MEPs are facing emergency sittings to rush through any deal before the end of the year. No 10 said Parliament has shown that it can “act at pace” when it needs to pass legislation swiftly. Brussels is hoping to have a pact signed off by Monday to allow legislation to be passed in the European Parliament at a special sitting on December 28. Talks resumed online today after they were brought to an abrupt halt last week when an EU official tested positive for coronavirus. READ MORE ON OUR BREXIT LIVE BLOG
Michel Barnier and David Frost are both isolating after a negotiator tetsed positive for coronavirus
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Brexit negotiations have continued virtually
Negotiators Lord Frost and Michel Barnier are expected to meet face to face again at the end of the week. Mr Barnier said: “Time is short. Fundamental divergences still remain, but we are continuing to work hard for a deal.” Fishing rights and state subsidies are the key outstanding issues holding up progress. A No 10 spokesman said the UK has been very clear that it will become an independent coastal nation. DON'T MISS:
EUROPE NEEDS BRITAIN even after Brexit and here's why [COMMENT]
MEP rebellion brews over plans to force vote on Brexit deal [LATEST]
We're about to find out if snowflakes now rule Brexit Britain [ANALYSIS]
Boris Johnson will be forced to talk to Von der Leyen over the phone while he self isolates for coronavirus
“We will take back control of access to our waters,” he added. The spokesman insisted there will not be any extension to the transition period. Brussels sources expect a last-minute trade-off on the so-called level-playing field and reduced access to Britain’s coastal waters to help get a deal across the line. EU Parliament Brexit representative Christophe Hansen said the bloc would have to be prepared to meet Boris Johnson’s fisheries demands in order to clinch an agreement.
Brexit endgame: The steps that must be met in order for a deal to be in place


thedailyexpress--2020-11-24--EU chief Michel praises Biden's 'CLEAR support' for bloc in spat over Boris' Brexit plot

After a phone call between the pair , Mr Michel claimed the President-elect had shown “ clear support ” for the bloc in the row over Downing Street ’ s Internal Market Bill .
Brussels is furious at Boris Johnson ’ s plans to ignore sections of last year ’ s Withdrawal Agreement relating to Northern Ireland .
But the Prime Minister has been adamant that the legislation is designed to protect food supplies to the province if negotiations break down between the EU and UK .
In a statement , the EU said : “ President Michel also thanked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement the EU concluded with the UK last year .
“ This agreement preserves peace and stability in Ireland and fully respects the Good Friday Agreement.
” During his successful campaign for the White House , Mr Biden slammed No10 ’ s Brexit Bill .
He said failure to fully implement the Withdrawal Agreement would hinder any future trade negotiations between the UK and US .
The President-elect has been a vocal member of the Irish caucus in the Congress and openly speaks of his Irish roots .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ not want the Good Friday Agreement to become a “ casualty of Brexit ” and that “ any trade deal between the US and UK must be contingent upon respect for the agreement and preventing the return of a hard border ” .
Dublin has sought to use its influence in Washington to pressure Britain into dropping the controversial clauses in the Internal Market Bill .
But Downing Street has been insistent it won ’ t scrap the legislation despite the criticism .
The EU and UK continue to hold discussions on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Brexit Joint Committee .
Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove is expected to meet his EU counterpart Maros Sefcovic later this month for the next round of wrangling .
Meanwhile , the Brexit trade talks are still ongoing with Mr Johnson expected to personally intervene to get a deal across the line in the coming days .
Downing Street said there are still issues that need to be resolved as talks resumed today .
MUST READ : Brexit fury : Boris Johnson 'will U-turn and accept EU terms' But the Prime Minister and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are poised to speak to push an agreement over the line .
Irish premier Micheal Martin fuelled hopes of a breakthrough being made within days .
He said : “ I would be hopeful that by the end of this week we could see the outline of a deal .
“ That remains to be seen .
It ’ s down to political will .
One must remain hopeful that a deal can be arrived at.
” DO N'T MISS MEP rebellion brews over plans to force vote on Brexit deal [ REPORT @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at 'creep ' Boris Johnson [ INSIGHT ] Irish PM breaks cover to say EU could reach UK agreement in DAYS [ FORECAST ]

Joe Biden 'will not undermine EU with UK trade deal' says expert
After a phone call between the pair, Mr Michel claimed the President-elect had shown “clear support” for the bloc in the row over Downing Street’s Internal Market Bill. Brussels is furious at Boris Johnson’s plans to ignore sections of last year’s Withdrawal Agreement relating to Northern Ireland. But the Prime Minister has been adamant that the legislation is designed to protect food supplies to the province if negotiations break down between the EU and UK.
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In a statement, the EU said: “President Michel also thanked the President-elect for his clear support regarding the implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement the EU concluded with the UK last year. “This agreement preserves peace and stability in Ireland and fully respects the Good Friday Agreement.” During his successful campaign for the White House, Mr Biden slammed No10’s Brexit Bill. He said failure to fully implement the Withdrawal Agreement would hinder any future trade negotiations between the UK and US.
EU recruits Joe Biden to pressure UK into scrapping Brexit legislation
Joe Biden is the US President-elect after beating Donald Trump in the latest White House race
The President-elect has been a vocal member of the Irish caucus in the Congress and openly speaks of his Irish roots. Mr Biden has previously said he does not want the Good Friday Agreement to become a “casualty of Brexit” and that “any trade deal between the US and UK must be contingent upon respect for the agreement and preventing the return of a hard border”. Dublin has sought to use its influence in Washington to pressure Britain into dropping the controversial clauses in the Internal Market Bill. But Downing Street has been insistent it won’t scrap the legislation despite the criticism.
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Charles Michel is the EU Council's president
The EU and UK continue to hold discussions on the implementation of the Northern Irish Protocol in the Brexit Joint Committee. Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove is expected to meet his EU counterpart Maros Sefcovic later this month for the next round of wrangling. Meanwhile, the Brexit trade talks are still ongoing with Mr Johnson expected to personally intervene to get a deal across the line in the coming days. Downing Street said there are still issues that need to be resolved as talks resumed today. MUST READ: Brexit fury: Boris Johnson 'will U-turn and accept EU terms'
Northern Ireland border plan explained
But the Prime Minister and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are poised to speak to push an agreement over the line. Irish premier Micheal Martin fuelled hopes of a breakthrough being made within days. He said: “I would be hopeful that by the end of this week we could see the outline of a deal. “That remains to be seen. It’s down to political will. One must remain hopeful that a deal can be arrived at.” DON'T MISS
MEP rebellion brews over plans to force vote on Brexit deal [REPORT]
Joe Biden's allies hit out at 'creep' Boris Johnson [INSIGHT]
Irish PM breaks cover to say EU could reach UK agreement in DAYS [FORECAST]
Brexit: Scottish 'prosperity' depends on UK trade says Miklinski


thedailyexpress--2020-11-24--SNP set for another embarrassing U-turn after hate crime law shamed by actors

Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf is expected to tell MSPs he will remove a clause that had sparked fears within the theatre and arts industry .
Fears had been raised the Hate Crime and Public Disorder ( Scotland ) Bill could see actors and directors convicted for `` stirring up hatred '' during the performance and production of a play .
Punishments for the offence against groups with `` protected characteristics '' include prison terms of up to seven years .
Experts warned it could lead to self-censorship and could criminalise legitimate expressions .
The Federation of Scottish Theatre , UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Studio Scotland and Scottish Society of Playwrights wrote a submission to Holyrood ’ s Justice Committee .
In a joint submission , the groups said the Bill has “ raised serious concerns among our members about the extent to which the proposed legislation will allow for the free and frank exploration of some of the most vital and contentious issues in society today.
” They added : “ Section Four of the Bill makes provision for persons associated with the public performance of a play to be held criminally liable for committing the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is therefore particularly important that appropriate scrutiny be given during Stage One to the impact of the proposed legislation on the public performance of plays.
” David Greig , the artistic director of the Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh , told the Justice Committee last month that he was worried about the new law .
He said : `` I worry that a very deep problem is created , because the nature of it [ theatre ] is people standing on stage representing points of view we 're expected to challenge and disapprove @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : SNP aide warns of 'leadership damage ' over independence obsession Liam Kerr MSP , Scottish Tory justice spokesman , added : `` We 're all behind the need for strong hate crime legislation to protect victims of these abhorrent attacks .
`` But we need that hate crime legislation to be a good , workable and well-written law .
`` The SNP 's Hate Crime Bill is still a shambles .
`` The minor changes to date do n't go anywhere near far enough .
DO N'T MISS : Scottish fishermen hit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Barnier [ LATEST ] Nicola Sturgeon sets out vision for new SNP Scottish Bank [ REVEAL ] SNP failed to consult Brussels over plot to keep Scotland tied to EU [ INSIGHT ] '' We wo n't tackle hate crime in Scotland with another flawed SNP bill that ends up being challenged in courts , just as we saw with the Named Persons debacle . ''
The controversial law is intended to streamline and toughen existing laws against hate crime but has drawn criticism from lawyers , police , judges , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 2,000 submissions were made to the Scottish Parliament 's consultation on the Bill amid warnings it was badly drafted and a threat to public debate .
Mr Yousaf said of the U-turn : `` The lightbulb moment was hearing from individuals in the arts who said it would cause them to self-censor .
That was key . ''
`` Even if the Bill did n't do what they thought it would , the mere perception might have caused them to [ change their behaviour ] .
`` And this Bill is not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protections to people who are often the victims of hatred . ''
In September , Mr Yousaf was also forced to back down over the inclusion of `` likely to '' and instead mean that to be convicted under the law there would have to be an intention to stir up hatred .
Although he continues to believe that concerns around this were `` incorrect '' , he said : `` Clearly people did have concerns . ''

SNP’s hate crime bill proposal criticised by Andrew Doyle
Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf is expected to tell MSPs he will remove a clause that had sparked fears within the theatre and arts industry. Fears had been raised the Hate Crime and Public Disorder (Scotland) Bill could see actors and directors convicted for "stirring up hatred" during the performance and production of a play.
Trending
Punishments for the offence against groups with "protected characteristics" include prison terms of up to seven years. Experts warned it could lead to self-censorship and could criminalise legitimate expressions. The Federation of Scottish Theatre, UK Theatre, Independent Theatre Council, Playwrights Studio Scotland and Scottish Society of Playwrights wrote a submission to Holyrood’s Justice Committee. In a joint submission, the groups said the Bill has “raised serious concerns among our members about the extent to which the proposed legislation will allow for the free and frank exploration of some of the most vital and contentious issues in society today.”
The SNP's Hate Crime Bill is still a shambles, MSP Liam Kerr says
Mr Yousaf is expected to amend the controversial hate crime bill
They added: “Section Four of the Bill makes provision for persons associated with the public performance of a play to be held criminally liable for committing the offence of stirring up hatred. “It is therefore particularly important that appropriate scrutiny be given during Stage One to the impact of the proposed legislation on the public performance of plays.” David Greig, the artistic director of the Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh, told the Justice Committee last month that he was worried about the new law. He said: "I worry that a very deep problem is created, because the nature of it [theatre] is people standing on stage representing points of view we're expected to challenge and disapprove of very wholeheartedly." READ MORE: SNP aide warns of 'leadership damage' over independence obsession
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The theatre industry has been hit hard with the coronavirus pandemic
The bill could see actors and directors convicted for ''stirring up hatred'' during a performance


thedailyexpress--2020-11-23--Boris urged DON'T call Sturgeon's bluff on independence - poll warns PM to reject new vote

Despite the Scottish public voting to remain part of the UK back in 2014 , the SNP have vowed to hold a second referendum .
Over recent months , support for independence has increased following Boris Johnson ’ s handling of Brexit and COVID-19 .
An Express.co.uk poll - which ran from 2.30pm to 9pm today - asked whether Mr Johnson should call Nicola Sturgeon ’ s bluff .
Out of 1,652 votes , 53 percent ( 858 ) urged the Prime Minister not to call for an independence poll next year .
A total of 46 percent ( 779 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a new vote , while less than one percent ( 15 ) said they didn ’ t know .
One reader said : “ For God ’ s sake , give them their referendum and let ’ s hope they vote for independent and get that wall built and no immigration either.
” Another person echoed : “ If the Scottish people want to leave they should do so .
“ They already had one referendum but I am so tired of hearing the whinging that we should put it to bed once @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want to leave then that would be for the best .
“ If they are not with us , then I say go !
” READ MORE : SNP could hold indyref2 vote IMMEDIATELY after 2021 elections Others said the vote should be put to the entire UK not just the Scottish public .
A third reader said : “ Any referendum of such vital importance to the UK as a whole must be put to the UK as a whole .
“ The future of the UK can never rest in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the border .
“ The English must be given a vote on this issue and everyone should write to their MP to make this important point lest it be somehow overlooked.
” DO N'T MISS Nicola Sturgeon 's plan 'would put Scotland in terrible state ' [ COMMENT ] Nicola Sturgeon sets out vision for new SNP Scottish Bank [ INSIGHT ] Queen 's plot to stop Scots backing Scottish independence [ REVEAL ] Another person said : “ Yes let them have their vote .
“ If they vote out they will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as soon as the EU turns their back on them .
“ They will get their independence but won ’ t be the one they ’ ve been sold even if they do get to join the EU.
” Someone else said : “ Don ’ t you dare Boris !

IndyRef2: Scottish voters question Sturgeon's independence plan
Despite the Scottish public voting to remain part of the UK back in 2014, the SNP have vowed to hold a second referendum. Over recent months, support for independence has increased following Boris Johnson’s handling of Brexit and COVID-19.
Trending
An Express.co.uk poll - which ran from 2.30pm to 9pm today - asked whether Mr Johnson should call Nicola Sturgeon’s bluff. Out of 1,652 votes, 53 percent (858) urged the Prime Minister not to call for an independence poll next year. A total of 46 percent (779) of people said he should back a new vote, while less than one percent (15) said they didn’t know. One reader said: “For God’s sake, give them their referendum and let’s hope they vote for independent and get that wall built and no immigration either.”
Boris urged DON'T call Sturgeon's bluff on indyref
Boris urged not to call Sturgeon's bluff
Another person echoed: “If the Scottish people want to leave they should do so. “They already had one referendum but I am so tired of hearing the whinging that we should put it to bed once and for all. “If they want to leave then that would be for the best. “If they are not with us, then I say go!” READ MORE: SNP could hold indyref2 vote IMMEDIATELY after 2021 elections
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Boris Johnson and Nicola Sturgeon
Others said the vote should be put to the entire UK not just the Scottish public. A third reader said: “Any referendum of such vital importance to the UK as a whole must be put to the UK as a whole. “The future of the UK can never rest in the hands of a tiny minority north of the border. “The English must be given a vote on this issue and everyone should write to their MP to make this important point lest it be somehow overlooked.” DON'T MISS
Nicola Sturgeon's plan 'would put Scotland in terrible state' [COMMENT]
Nicola Sturgeon sets out vision for new SNP Scottish Bank [INSIGHT]
Queen's plot to stop Scots backing Scottish independence [REVEAL]
Should Scotland be an independent country?
Another person said: “Yes let them have their vote. “If they vote out they will soon realise that they made a mistake as soon as the EU turns their back on them. “They will get their independence but won’t be the one they’ve been sold even if they do get to join the EU.” Someone else said: “Don’t you dare Boris!
Prime Minister Boris Johnson
“You are playing with British people’s lives, because that is what we are, British citizens. “People in Scotland are part of Britain so British citizens. “You are our PM and should protect us from this evil idiot Sturgeon.” Mr Johnson, who headlined the Scottish Tories conference last weekend, slated the SNP, claiming Scotland was better together as part of the UK.
SNP continue push for second independence ref


thedailyexpress--2020-11-23--Labour’s chief whip demands Corbyn apologise for anti-Semitism comments as row intensifies

The former leader was sensationally suspended from the party last month over his controversial comments but was reinstated by the National Executive Committee following a meeting of a disciplinary panel three weeks later .
His successor Sir Keir Starmer has refused to let him to sit as a Labour MP but said he would keep the decision not to restore the whip `` under review '' .
The veteran left-winger has now been ordered to issue an `` unequivocal , unambiguous and unreserved '' apology by Labour chief whip Nick Brown .
Mr Brown said Mr Corbyn 's response to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( EHRC ) report caused `` distress and pain '' to the Jewish community .
In a letter to the former leader , he said : `` Will you unequivocally , unambiguously and without reservation apologise for your comments made on the morning of 29 October 2020 , in particular for saying 'One anti-Semite is one too many , but the scale of the problem was also dramatically overstated for political reasons by our opponents inside and outside the party , as well as by much of the media ' , which caused @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Labour Party and the wider Jewish community ? ''
Mr Brown also asked Mr Corbyn to confirm that he will remove or edit his response - which he posted on Facebook , and asked for an assurance that he will cooperate fully with the party as it seeks to implement the EHRC 's recommendations .
A Labour spokesman said : `` Following consultation with the Labour Leader , the Chief Whip has written to Jeremy Corbyn about his precautionary suspension from the whip .
`` In the interests of transparency , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ put in the public domain .
We will not be making any further comments . ''
The EHRC report found Labour had broken the law in its handling of anti-Semitism complaints , though Mr Corbyn said the scale of the issue had been `` dramatically overstated for political reasons '' by opponents inside and outside Labour , along with the media .
He later attempted to clarify his comments in a statement to the party , saying concerns about anti-Semitism were `` neither 'exaggerated ' nor 'overstated ' . ''
His suspension and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with supporters of Mr Corbyn turning against Sir Keir .
Former shadow home secretary Diane Abbott , an ally of Mr Corbyn , questioned whether Sir Keir would ever have been elected leader if members knew how he would act against his predecessor .
She said excluding Mr Corbyn was `` wrong '' and Sir Keir 's actions were `` no way to unite the party '' .
Ms Abbott was one of more than 30 MPs and peers in the left-wing Socialist Campaign Group calling for Mr Corbyn to have the whip @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The decision not to restore the whip to Jeremy Corbyn is wrong and damaging to the Labour Party . ''
Len McCluskey , general secretary of Unite - Labour 's biggest donor - said the refusal to restore the whip to Mr Corbyn was `` vindictive and vengeful '' as he urged Sir Keir to `` pull back from the brink '' .
He accused Sir Keir of acting in `` bad faith '' and reports have suggested that allies of Mr Corbyn believed a deal had been struck with this successor 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ party - a claim denied by the leadership .
DO N'T MISS Corbyn 's Labour and it 's ugly culture of anti-Jewish racism [ COMMENT ] Keir Starmer in crisis as he ’ s warned he faces leadership challenge [ INSIGHT ] Keir Starmer accused of Corbyn witch hunt [ FOCUS ]

Andrew Marr quizzes Anneliese Dodds on Labour ‘civil war’
The former leader was sensationally suspended from the party last month over his controversial comments but was reinstated by the National Executive Committee following a meeting of a disciplinary panel three weeks later. His successor Sir Keir Starmer has refused to let him to sit as a Labour MP but said he would keep the decision not to restore the whip "under review".
Will you unequivocally, unambiguously and without reservation apologise for your comments? Nick Brown
The veteran left-winger has now been ordered to issue an "unequivocal, unambiguous and unreserved" apology by Labour chief whip Nick Brown. Mr Brown said Mr Corbyn's response to a damning Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) report caused "distress and pain" to the Jewish community. In a letter to the former leader, he said: "Will you unequivocally, unambiguously and without reservation apologise for your comments made on the morning of 29 October 2020, in particular for saying 'One anti-Semite is one too many, but the scale of the problem was also dramatically overstated for political reasons by our opponents inside and outside the party, as well as by much of the media', which caused such distress and pain to Jewish members of the Labour Party and the wider Jewish community?"
Jeremy Corbyn has been told to apologise over his remarks about Labour's anti-Semitism scandal
Mr Brown also asked Mr Corbyn to confirm that he will remove or edit his response - which he posted on Facebook, and asked for an assurance that he will cooperate fully with the party as it seeks to implement the EHRC's recommendations. A Labour spokesman said: "Following consultation with the Labour Leader, the Chief Whip has written to Jeremy Corbyn about his precautionary suspension from the whip. "In the interests of transparency, a copy of this letter has been put in the public domain. We will not be making any further comments." READ MORE:The Corbyn effect: Labour members are now 70% upper middle class
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Labour chief whip Nick Brown has demanded an apology from Jeremy Corbyn
Diane Abbott has called for Jeremy Corbyn to have the Labour whip restored
The EHRC report found Labour had broken the law in its handling of anti-Semitism complaints, though Mr Corbyn said the scale of the issue had been "dramatically overstated for political reasons" by opponents inside and outside Labour, along with the media. He later attempted to clarify his comments in a statement to the party, saying concerns about anti-Semitism were "neither 'exaggerated' nor 'overstated'." His suspension and reinstatement have thrown the part into turmoil with supporters of Mr Corbyn turning against Sir Keir. Former shadow home secretary Diane Abbott, an ally of Mr Corbyn, questioned whether Sir Keir would ever have been elected leader if members knew how he would act against his predecessor. She said excluding Mr Corbyn was "wrong" and Sir Keir's actions were "no way to unite the party".
Trending
Ms Abbott was one of more than 30 MPs and peers in the left-wing Socialist Campaign Group calling for Mr Corbyn to have the whip restored. The group said: "The decision not to restore the whip to Jeremy Corbyn is wrong and damaging to the Labour Party." Len McCluskey, general secretary of Unite - Labour's biggest donor - said the refusal to restore the whip to Mr Corbyn was "vindictive and vengeful" as he urged Sir Keir to "pull back from the brink". He accused Sir Keir of acting in "bad faith" and reports have suggested that allies of Mr Corbyn believed a deal had been struck with this successor's office to restore his standing in the party - a claim denied by the leadership. DON'T MISS
Corbyn's Labour and it's ugly culture of anti-Jewish racism[COMMENT]
Keir Starmer in crisis as he’s warned he faces leadership challenge[INSIGHT]
Keir Starmer accused of Corbyn witch hunt [FOCUS]
Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and his successor Keir Starmer


thedailyexpress--2020-11-23--SNP's Blackford sparks furious backlash for 'right-wingers' ignoring science - 'Really?!'

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The SNP 's leader in Westminster questioned whether the UK Government has followed the science throughout the coronavirus pandemic .
However , viewers took to social media to mock Mr Blackford and the SNP 's record on `` ignoring the science '' during the COVID-19 crisis .
Mr Blackford stated : `` Far too often in the recent past expertise and science have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Let ’ s now ensure that those same politicians never forget that it is a commitment and dedication to science that is now coming to our society 's rescue . ''
One Twitter user said in response : `` Ian Blackford going in on 'right-wing politicians ignoring the science ' maybe needs to have a word with a certain M.Ferrier . ''
Another tweeted : `` Ian Blackford in the commons just now without the slightest hint of self-awareness referring to right-wing politicians .
Face with tears of joy . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ones in care homes with radical tests

Ian Blackford praises the development of vaccines
The SNP's leader in Westminster questioned whether the UK Government has followed the science throughout the coronavirus pandemic. However, viewers took to social media to mock Mr Blackford and the SNP's record on "ignoring the science" during the COVID-19 crisis.
Trending
Mr Blackford stated: "Far too often in the recent past expertise and science have been questioned and demeaned by right-wing politicians. "Let’s now ensure that those same politicians never forget that it is a commitment and dedication to science that is now coming to our society's rescue." One Twitter user said in response: "Ian Blackford going in on 'right-wing politicians ignoring the science' maybe needs to have a word with a certain M.Ferrier."
Another tweeted: "Ian Blackford in the commons just now without the slightest hint of self-awareness referring to right-wing politicians. Face with tears of joy."
READ MORE: Families can hug loved ones in care homes with radical tests
Ian Blackford is the leader of the SNP in Westminster
The coronavirus vaccines in development
A third wrote: "Ian Blackford is the most irrelevant person in the Commons."
A fourth said: "Ian Blackford is up - let’s guess will he be asking about independence again?" Mr Blackford was speaking following the Prime Minister's announcement that the national lockdown will not be renewed after December 2. Boris Johnson also announced that the UK will revert back to the tier-system used prior to the national lockdown.
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Boris Johnson outlines plans to impose ‘tougher’ tier system
The coronavirus risk chart


thedailyexpress--2020-11-23--Scotland POLL: Should Boris call Sturgeon's bluff and call independence poll next year?

THIS POLL IS NOW CLOSED .
SEE THE RESULTS HERE .
The SNP has vowed to hold a second poll , nicknamed IndyRef2 , next year , but rivals have vowed this will “ never happen ” .
But with the increasing support for independence being met with an equally ferocious pro-union campaign , should Boris Johnson call Nicola Sturgeon ’ s bluff and grant a second independence vote ?
Mr Johnson , who headlined the Scottish Tories conference last weekend , slated the SNP , claiming Scotland was better together as part of the UK .
Mr Johnson added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was that `` the way the SNP have handled devolution in Scotland has been a disaster '' .
Under the SNP , he said , Scotland had seen `` plummeting education standards , low business confidence and the lowest satisfaction in public services ever '' .
Mr Johnson said : “ Let 's never forget what we have achieved as a country through co-operation . ''
But the SNP , who will host their conference this weekend , claim Boris Johnson and new party leader Douglas Ross had `` insulted the democratic choice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brown MSP , SNP deputy leader , said : “ [ Boris Johnson ] should have apologised for insulting the democratic choice of the people of Scotland and for the litany of toxic Tory policies , from austerity to a disastrous Brexit in the midst of a devastating pandemic .
`` Once again , untrustworthy Johnson has demonstrated the Tories do n't care about the needs of the people of Scotland .
“ The only way to properly protect Scotland 's interests is to become an independent , European country . ''
READ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for new SNP Scottish Bank Westminster leader Ian Blackford added the SNP would have a platform to hold IndyRef2 `` quickly '' if they won the Scottish Parliament elections in May .
Pro-independence parties including the Scottish Greens backed the SNP calls with co-leader Patrick Harvie MSP stressing Scotland ’ s future must be decided by Scots .
He said : “ It ’ s clearer than ever that the UK simply isn ’ t working for Scotland .
“ More and more people are coming to the conclusion that we must take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we are to build a better Scotland.
” DO N'T MISS : Scottish fishermen hit out at EU over demands to concede to Barnier [ LATEST ] SNP aide warns of 'leadership damage ' over independence obsession [ INSIGHT ] SNP failed to consult Brussels over plot to keep Scotland tied to EU [ REVEAL ]

Boris Johnson hits out at SNP’s handling of devolution
THIS POLL IS NOW CLOSED. SEE THE RESULTS HERE. The SNP has vowed to hold a second poll, nicknamed IndyRef2, next year, but rivals have vowed this will “never happen”. But with the increasing support for independence being met with an equally ferocious pro-union campaign, should Boris Johnson call Nicola Sturgeon’s bluff and grant a second independence vote?
Trending
Mr Johnson, who headlined the Scottish Tories conference last weekend, slated the SNP, claiming Scotland was better together as part of the UK. Mr Johnson added his "round, unvarnished view" was that "the way the SNP have handled devolution in Scotland has been a disaster". Under the SNP, he said, Scotland had seen "plummeting education standards, low business confidence and the lowest satisfaction in public services ever". Mr Johnson said: “Let's never forget what we have achieved as a country through co-operation."
Vote now in our poll
The SNP has vowed to hold a second independence referendum
But the SNP, who will host their conference this weekend, claim Boris Johnson and new party leader Douglas Ross had "insulted the democratic choice of the people of Scotland.” Keith Brown MSP, SNP deputy leader, said: “[Boris Johnson] should have apologised for insulting the democratic choice of the people of Scotland and for the litany of toxic Tory policies, from austerity to a disastrous Brexit in the midst of a devastating pandemic. "Once again, untrustworthy Johnson has demonstrated the Tories don't care about the needs of the people of Scotland. “The only way to properly protect Scotland's interests is to become an independent, European country." READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon sets out vision for new SNP Scottish Bank
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Mr Johnson says the SNP's handling of the devolution has been a ''disaster''
Westminster leader Ian Blackford added the SNP would have a platform to hold IndyRef2 "quickly" if they won the Scottish Parliament elections in May. Pro-independence parties including the Scottish Greens backed the SNP calls with co-leader Patrick Harvie MSP stressing Scotland’s future must be decided by Scots. He said: “It’s clearer than ever that the UK simply isn’t working for Scotland. “More and more people are coming to the conclusion that we must take our future into our own hands if we are to build a better Scotland.” DON'T MISS:
Scottish fishermen hit out at EU over demands to concede to Barnier [LATEST]
SNP aide warns of 'leadership damage' over independence obsession [INSIGHT]
SNP failed to consult Brussels over plot to keep Scotland tied to EU [REVEAL]
Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon


thedailyexpress--2020-11-23--The Corbyn effect: Labour members are now 70% upper middle class and from London

Gloria de Piero , who represented Ashfield , Notts , from 2010 until standing down before last year 's election , spoke out after a new book highlighted the fact that more than three quarters of Labour Party members were middle class and almost half lived in London .
Ms de Piero 's former constituency , once considered a safe Labour safer seat , fell to the Tory Lee Anderson - himself a defector from Labour - at the 2019 election .
She tweeted : `` This is a huge problem for Labour .
‘ A 2017 survey found that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fell within the ABC1 social classes .
Nearly half of all its members lived in London or southern England , and 57 percent were graduates ' . ''
In 2012 , Ms de Piero held a national tour called 'Why Do People Hate Me ? '
designed to discover why voters had become so disenchanted with politicians .
She visited bingo halls , exercise classes , warehouses and golf clubs to hear about people 's disillusionment `` in their own words '' .
Her 8,820 majority at the 2015 general election fell to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who had served as Ms de Piero 's office manager , then took the seat for the Conservatives with a 5,733 majority last December .
Her warning to Sir Keir Starmer and the Labour Party comes after a new book lifted the lid left-wing contempt for the working classes .
Despised : Why the Modern Left Loathes the Working Class by Paul Embery claims Labour has lost touch with its roots .
READ MORE : Jeremy Corbyn to have Labour whip suspended for at least three months In the book , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ writes : “ The party neither looks nor sounds very much like those it was created to represent .
“ Many of its representatives and spokespeople – indeed , much of its membership – live wholly different lives , and have contrasting interests and priorities , to millions of working-class people living in the more disadvantaged parts of our nation.
” Mr Embery , a former full-time official with the Fire Brigades Union , told MailOnline : `` Today , Labour has become a middle-class party with a militantly cosmopolitan world view .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a movement almost exclusively for the managerial and professional classes , graduates , social activists and urban liberals .
`` And many inside the party have started to look upon old-fashioned values with contempt . ''
He continued : `` There is no place on the modern Left for the small ‘ c ’ conservatism of the traditional working class , with its love of community and nation and its desire for social solidarity and belonging .
`` Instead , this shiny , progressive , bourgeois Labour elevates things such as personal autonomy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all that ‘ faith , family and flag ’ nonsense .
`` There had always been a compromise between the worlds of Hartlepool and Hampstead , but today it is almost all Hampstead and no Hartlepool .
`` For some time , Labour has been travelling the road to the imagined sunlit uplands of cosmopolitan liberalism and global market forces .
`` Now it ’ s in a quagmire , flirting with irrelevance . ''
DO N'T MISS Corbyn 's Labour and it 's ugly culture of anti-Jewish racism [ COMMENT ] Keir @ @ @ @ @ @ @ SPOTLIGHT ] Labour Left 'spent horses ' as Jeremy Corbyn 's hopes crushed [ FOCUS ]

Jeremy Corbyn was a 'disaster' for Labour says Phil Wilson
Gloria de Piero, who represented Ashfield, Notts, from 2010 until standing down before last year's election, spoke out after a new book highlighted the fact that more than three quarters of Labour Party members were middle class and almost half lived in London. Ms de Piero's former constituency, once considered a safe Labour safer seat, fell to the Tory Lee Anderson - himself a defector from Labour - at the 2019 election.
This is a huge problem for Labour Gloria de Piero
She tweeted: "This is a huge problem for Labour. ‘A 2017 survey found that 77 per cent of Labour Party members fell within the ABC1 social classes. Nearly half of all its members lived in London or southern England, and 57 percent were graduates'." In 2012, Ms de Piero held a national tour called 'Why Do People Hate Me?' designed to discover why voters had become so disenchanted with politicians. She visited bingo halls, exercise classes, warehouses and golf clubs to hear about people's disillusionment "in their own words".
Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and his successor Sir Keir Starmer
Her 8,820 majority at the 2015 general election fell to just 441 in 2017 and Mr Anderson, who had served as Ms de Piero's office manager, then took the seat for the Conservatives with a 5,733 majority last December. Her warning to Sir Keir Starmer and the Labour Party comes after a new book lifted the lid left-wing contempt for the working classes. Despised: Why the Modern Left Loathes the Working Class by Paul Embery claims Labour has lost touch with its roots. READ MORE: Jeremy Corbyn to have Labour whip suspended for at least three months
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Gloria de Piero said Labour had a 'huge problem' reconnecting with is traditional supporters
Jeremy Corbyn led Labour to its worst election result since the 1930s
In the book, which is out on Friday, Mr Embery writes: “The party neither looks nor sounds very much like those it was created to represent. “Many of its representatives and spokespeople – indeed, much of its membership – live wholly different lives, and have contrasting interests and priorities, to millions of working-class people living in the more disadvantaged parts of our nation.” Mr Embery, a former full-time official with the Fire Brigades Union, told MailOnline: "Today, Labour has become a middle-class party with a militantly cosmopolitan world view. "Disavowing its roots, it is a movement almost exclusively for the managerial and professional classes, graduates, social activists and urban liberals. "And many inside the party have started to look upon old-fashioned values with contempt."
Trending
He continued: "There is no place on the modern Left for the small ‘c’ conservatism of the traditional working class, with its love of community and nation and its desire for social solidarity and belonging. "Instead, this shiny, progressive, bourgeois Labour elevates things such as personal autonomy, open borders and identity politics over all that ‘faith, family and flag’ nonsense. "There had always been a compromise between the worlds of Hartlepool and Hampstead, but today it is almost all Hampstead and no Hartlepool. "For some time, Labour has been travelling the road to the imagined sunlit uplands of cosmopolitan liberalism and global market forces. "Now it’s in a quagmire, flirting with irrelevance." DON'T MISS
Corbyn's Labour and it's ugly culture of anti-Jewish racism[COMMENT]
Keir Starmer accused of Corbyn witch hunt [SPOTLIGHT]
Labour Left 'spent horses' as Jeremy Corbyn's hopes crushed[FOCUS]
Jeremy Corbyn stood down as Labour leader after last year's disastrous election result


thedailyexpress--2020-11-23--Boris Johnson CUTS OUT during Covid live stream: MPs mock PM 'have you pressed the button’

One MP was left asking if the Prime Minister had “ paid the electric ” as his connection with the House of Commons cut off .
It came during the Prime Minister ’ s statement in the House of Commons as Boris Johnson set out the next stages of the Government ’ s fight against coronavirus .
The Prime Minister is currently working from home after coming into contact with a colleague who tested positive for the virus .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock eventually stepped into the Prime Minister 's shoes after the video link from Downing Street lost audio @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was suspended for three minutes after the technical glitch , however , it was not fixed so Mr Hancock had to fill in .
There was a ripple of laughter from MPs in the chamber following the technical issues when the Prime Minister could be seen moving out of shot on-screen .
Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle said : `` Have you pressed the button Prime Minister ?
`` I think we 're just going to have to stop for a moment so we can have it checked .
`` We 're just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lost your answer .
Have you pressed the button by mistake Prime Minister ?
`` It 's not our end Prime Minister , it could well be yours . ''
READ MORE : Families can hug loved ones in care homes with radical tests Sir Lindsay added : `` Would Mr Hancock like to take over with the answer ? ''
Gesturing to the frontbench , the Speaker said : `` Is one of you going to do it or not , it 's no good looking at one another ?
`` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then . ''
Before the link failed , Mr Johnson set out measures that will be eased as the lockdown lifts .
He told MPs : `` From next Wednesday people will be able to leave their home for any purpose and meet others in outdoor public spaces , subject to the rule of six , collective worship , weddings and outdoor sports can resume , and shops , personal care , gyms and the wider leisure sector can reopen .
`` But without sensible precautions , we would risk the virus escalating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
He said details of which areas will be in which tiers will be published on Thursday .
He said : `` I 'm sorry to say we expect that more regions will fall at least temporarily into higher levels than before . ''
DO N'T MISS Tier 3 rules : What does tier 3 lockdown mean ?
All the restrictions [ SPOTLIGHT ] Lockdown warning : UK towns and cities could STAY in tough restrictions [ FOCUS ] Coronavirus THIRD WAVE warning : WHO urges urgent action [ ANALYSIS ]

Boris Johnson appears to lose connection in House of Commons
One MP was left asking if the Prime Minister had “paid the electric” as his connection with the House of Commons cut off. It came during the Prime Minister’s statement in the House of Commons as Boris Johnson set out the next stages of the Government’s fight against coronavirus.
Have you pressed the button Prime Minister? Sir Lindsay Hoyle
The Prime Minister is currently working from home after coming into contact with a colleague who tested positive for the virus. Health Secretary Matt Hancock eventually stepped into the Prime Minister's shoes after the video link from Downing Street lost audio during the crucial statement. The Commons was suspended for three minutes after the technical glitch, however, it was not fixed so Mr Hancock had to fill in.
Boris Johnson lost connection with the House of Commons
There was a ripple of laughter from MPs in the chamber following the technical issues when the Prime Minister could be seen moving out of shot on-screen. Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle said: "Have you pressed the button Prime Minister? "I think we're just going to have to stop for a moment so we can have it checked. "We're just checking the sound Prime Minister, we lost your answer. Have you pressed the button by mistake Prime Minister? "It's not our end Prime Minister, it could well be yours." READ MORE:Families can hug loved ones in care homes with radical tests
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Boris Johnson addresses the Commons from Downing Street
MPs listen to Boris Johnson before his audio link fails
Sir Lindsay added: "Would Mr Hancock like to take over with the answer?" Gesturing to the frontbench, the Speaker said: "Is one of you going to do it or not, it's no good looking at one another? "We're going to suspend for three minutes then." Before the link failed, Mr Johnson set out measures that will be eased as the lockdown lifts.
Trending
He told MPs: "From next Wednesday people will be able to leave their home for any purpose and meet others in outdoor public spaces, subject to the rule of six, collective worship, weddings and outdoor sports can resume, and shops, personal care, gyms and the wider leisure sector can reopen. "But without sensible precautions, we would risk the virus escalating into a winter or New Year surge." He said details of which areas will be in which tiers will be published on Thursday. He said: "I'm sorry to say we expect that more regions will fall at least temporarily into higher levels than before." DON'T MISS
Tier 3 rules: What does tier 3 lockdown mean? All the restrictions [SPOTLIGHT]
Lockdown warning: UK towns and cities could STAY in tough restrictions[FOCUS]
Coronavirus THIRD WAVE warning: WHO urges urgent action [ANALYSIS]
UK coronavirus cases