thedailyexpress--2020-12-21--Pound rallies as hopes for Brexit deal soar - Boris set to make last-ditch offer on fish

Sources familiar with the trade talks told Bloomberg Britain had tabled a more generous fishing offer after saying it would not budge on the issue .
The EU ’ s negotiating team led by Michel Barnier is considering the new offer .
The report came just hours after Boris Johnson insisted Britain would thrive in the event of a no-deal Brexit .
Twitter account Euro Guido shared a photo of the pound rising against the euro on Monday evening .
The snap showed Sterling had risen 0.41 percent against the euro .
There were suggestions online that markets were flocking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a trade deal is imminent .
The jump came after Sterling fell against the dollar and euro , down 0.42 percent and 0.45 percent respectively .
Sources said the UK ’ s negotiating team , led by Lord Frost , had offered to reduce the value of the EU ’ s catch in British waters by about a third .
Last week the UK said the bloc must accept a 60 percent reduction for a trade deal to be signed .
Every year the EU catches £590 million worth of fish in British @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the offer with hardline member states , such as France and Denmark .
While the UK has indicated it would be willing to accept a three-year transition period on fisheries , the EU is pushing for seven years .
Both sides could strike a deal by meeting half-way and agreeing to phase in changes over a five-year period .
News of the offer came after France insisted it would not accept the UK 's fishing demands .
French European Affairs junior Minister Clement Beaune said the UK ’ s proposals on fishing rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Beaune said major issues remained on the issue of fisheries , which is seen as one of the main stumbling blocks to a trade deal .

Pound to Euro exchange rate rises despite disruption at ports
Sources familiar with the trade talks told Bloomberg Britain had tabled a more generous fishing offer after saying it would not budge on the issue. The EU’s negotiating team led by Michel Barnier is considering the new offer. The report came just hours after Boris Johnson insisted Britain would thrive in the event of a no-deal Brexit.
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Twitter account Euro Guido shared a photo of the pound rising against the euro on Monday evening. The snap showed Sterling had risen 0.41 percent against the euro. There were suggestions online that markets were flocking to buy Sterling with the belief that a trade deal is imminent.
Pound rallies as hopes for Brexit deal soar - Boris set to make last-ditch offer on fish
The UK's chief negotiator Lord Frost tabled a new fishing offer
The jump came after Sterling fell against the dollar and euro, down 0.42 percent and 0.45 percent respectively. Sources said the UK’s negotiating team, led by Lord Frost, had offered to reduce the value of the EU’s catch in British waters by about a third. Last week the UK said the bloc must accept a 60 percent reduction for a trade deal to be signed. READ MORE:Boris Johnson’s plan for 22-mile bridge across Channel
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Boris Johnson insisted the UK is ready for a no-deal Brexit
The EU's Michel Barnier is considering the new fishing offer
Clement Beaune said the UK's position on fishing was not acceptable to France
Every year the EU catches £590 million worth of fish in British seas. The EU side is discussing the offer with hardline member states, such as France and Denmark. While the UK has indicated it would be willing to accept a three-year transition period on fisheries, the EU is pushing for seven years. Both sides could strike a deal by meeting half-way and agreeing to phase in changes over a five-year period.
European fishing dependence on British waters
News of the offer came after France insisted it would not accept the UK's fishing demands. French European Affairs junior Minister Clement Beaune said the UK’s proposals on fishing rights are so far unacceptable to France. Mr Beaune said major issues remained on the issue of fisheries, which is seen as one of the main stumbling blocks to a trade deal.
Fisheries remains one of the main stumbling blocks to a deal


thedailyexpress--2020-12-21--Sneering French Eurocrat claims EU would have helped UK with Covid if it wasn't for Brexit

Internal market commissioner Thierry Breton said the UK would have been able to claim up to £45billion in emergency funding from Brussels .
He said : `` It 's a tragedy what 's happening in Britain , and this Brexit is a tragedy , we see it more and more every day .
If Britain had chosen to remain in the European Union today we could have helped them . ''
In a three-hour “ crisis ” meeting , health experts agreed to hammer out a coordinated response to the mutant strain as capitals moved to shut down transport links @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to impose tough restrictions on people and goods travelling from Britain to the Continent .
France took the hardest line by blocking all arrivals from the UK , including freight , but announced plans to reopen the border .
Spain and Portugal announced plans to stop planes landing from Britain , following swathes of weekend announcements .
Sweden also halted all direct flights from the UK , warning against all non-essential travel to the country .
Germany , Belgium and the Netherlands have also restricted the movement of people arriving from Britain .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ stressed the importance ” of ensuring the free flow of goods by using “ green lanes ” for freight traffic with the UK .
Senior EU27 envoys will tomorrow hold further talks to decide on a common set of measures .
If they can reach an agreement it will pave the way for capitals to lift their travel bans .
One EU insider said the situation is so bad that the hardline approach by the bloc “ will be here to stay for a while ” .
They are considering a range of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mutant strain , including a complete ban on passenger flights to compulsory negative tests for all travellers from Britain .
An EU diplomat said : “ Participants stated their support for rapid action towards a coordinated EU approach in relation to measures applied to connections with the UK and called for guidelines from the Commission.
” But they were warned by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control that the new strain is likely to hit the Continent hard too .
DO N'T MISS Pound rallies as hopes for Brexit deal soar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
Grant Shapps declares UK ready for no deal Brexit [ VIDEO ] Brexit : Johnson could let EU take 'retaliatory action ' against UK [ INSIGHT ]

UK hits highest daily coronavirus figures with 35,928 new cases
Internal market commissioner Thierry Breton said the UK would have been able to claim up to £45billion in emergency funding from Brussels. He said: "It's a tragedy what's happening in Britain, and this Brexit is a tragedy, we see it more and more every day. If Britain had chosen to remain in the European Union today we could have helped them."
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In a three-hour “crisis” meeting, health experts agreed to hammer out a coordinated response to the mutant strain as capitals moved to shut down transport links with Britain. European states moved quickly to impose tough restrictions on people and goods travelling from Britain to the Continent. France took the hardest line by blocking all arrivals from the UK, including freight, but announced plans to reopen the border. Spain and Portugal announced plans to stop planes landing from Britain, following swathes of weekend announcements.
Thierry Breton said the UK would've received help from EU for Covid if it wasn't for Brexit
Sweden also halted all direct flights from the UK, warning against all non-essential travel to the country. Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands have also restricted the movement of people arriving from Britain. At the meeting, member states “stressed the importance” of ensuring the free flow of goods by using “green lanes” for freight traffic with the UK.
Boris Johnson addressed the nation on Monday
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Senior EU27 envoys will tomorrow hold further talks to decide on a common set of measures. If they can reach an agreement it will pave the way for capitals to lift their travel bans. One EU insider said the situation is so bad that the hardline approach by the bloc “will be here to stay for a while”.
Brexit: Clara Ponsatí Obiols calls for Scotland to rejoin EU
They are considering a range of options to counter the spread of the mutant strain, including a complete ban on passenger flights to compulsory negative tests for all travellers from Britain. An EU diplomat said: “Participants stated their support for rapid action towards a coordinated EU approach in relation to measures applied to connections with the UK and called for guidelines from the Commission.” But they were warned by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control that the new strain is likely to hit the Continent hard too. DON'T MISS
Pound rallies as hopes for Brexit deal soar [BREAKING]
Bring on Jan 1! Grant Shapps declares UK ready for no deal Brexit [VIDEO]
Brexit: Johnson could let EU take 'retaliatory action' against UK [INSIGHT]
Brexit in Daily Express front pages


thedailyexpress--2020-12-21--Scotland salmon industry in harsh blow to EU market after blockade 'can go elsewhere'

Crisis talks are being held to end the travel ban keeping the UK cut off from the continent over fears about the spread of the new coronavirus variant .
The closure of cross-channel routes until at least Wednesday has alarmed businesses in the lead-up to Christmas and with the added complication of the end of the Brexit transition period on December 31 .
But the chief executive of the Scottish Salmon producers organisation , Tavish Scott , has insisted companies are looking elsewhere to sell its stock .
Speaking to Sky News , Mr Scott said : `` There will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ selling salmon into the European market it commands a premium because of that we would argue it 's the best product in the market place .
`` We do n't get quite that same price premium here at home in the UK .
There are simply just more competitive market pressures .
`` That means there wo n't be such high returns on that in that marketplace but at least we managed to sell the product .
`` We would rather sell it to Europe because 63 percent of Scottish salmon is sold @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a premium there but where we possibly can , our companies are looking at alternative outlets here in the UK . ''
READ MORE : Caller shames France for ruining Christmas to 'flex Brexit muscles' It comes as French transport minister Jean-Baptiste Djebarri said he hoped a protocol would be agreed by European Union states `` to ensure that movement from the UK can resume '' after his country banned passengers and freight crossing the English Channel .
Boris Johnson was chairing a meeting of the Cobra emergency committee to discuss the mutant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the French and a string of other countries in Europe and beyond .
Sainsbury 's warned that disruption could hit supplies of lettuce , some salad leaves , cauliflowers , broccoli and citrus fruit , all of which are imported from the continent at this time of year .
Mr Djebarri said there would be a `` solid health protocol '' to `` protect our nationals and our fellow citizens '' while allowing movement to resume .
Measures being considered in France include the possibility of testing the country 's nationals to allow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said emergency measures were being put in place to cope with a backlog of lorries heading for the Channel ports .
But he sought to play down the potential impact , stressing that container freight was not hit by the ban on people crossing the border and hauliers were `` quite used to anticipating disruption '' .
The disused Manston Airport in Kent would be used as a lorry park , while Operation Stack , the contingency measures used to queue on the M20 whenever there is disruption at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Border POLL : Did Macron close borders to try and force 'bad Brexit ' ?
[ POLL ] Dover and Eurotunnel shut : How long will the border be shut ?
[ INSIGHT ] BBC host erupts at French MP for 'damage and disruption ' in Kent ban [ VIDEO ] The Transport Secretary dismissed concerns about the impact of the travel ban on supplies of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine , which is manufactured in Belgium , because container freight was unaffected .
The chief executive of the Road Haulage Association ( RHA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disruption could cause problems with `` fresh food supply '' in the run-up to Christmas .
He told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme : `` With it being so close to Christmas we 're looking at 48 hours at this point in time in terms of the restrictions , we 're likely to see Operation Stack building in terms of numbers of vehicles on the UK side and that might be a deterrent for EU hauliers to want to come so close to Christmas and end up being stranded here , that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're facing today . ''
Port of Dover chief executive Doug Bannister said that a prolonged period of disruption would be a `` stark situation '' .

Blockade: Expert discusses impact on Scottish salmon industry
Crisis talks are being held to end the travel ban keeping the UK cut off from the continent over fears about the spread of the new coronavirus variant. The closure of cross-channel routes until at least Wednesday has alarmed businesses in the lead-up to Christmas and with the added complication of the end of the Brexit transition period on December 31. But the chief executive of the Scottish Salmon producers organisation, Tavish Scott, has insisted companies are looking elsewhere to sell its stock.
Trending
Speaking to Sky News, Mr Scott said: "There will always be alternative markets because we're selling salmon into the European market it commands a premium because of that we would argue it's the best product in the market place. "We don't get quite that same price premium here at home in the UK. There are simply just more competitive market pressures. "That means there won't be such high returns on that in that marketplace but at least we managed to sell the product. "We would rather sell it to Europe because 63 percent of Scottish salmon is sold into that European marketplace and it commands a premium there but where we possibly can, our companies are looking at alternative outlets here in the UK." READ MORE: Caller shames France for ruining Christmas to 'flex Brexit muscles'
Tavish Scott has insisted companies are looking elsewhere to sell its stock
Crisis talks are being held to prevent the UK being cut off from the continent
It comes as French transport minister Jean-Baptiste Djebarri said he hoped a protocol would be agreed by European Union states "to ensure that movement from the UK can resume" after his country banned passengers and freight crossing the English Channel. Boris Johnson was chairing a meeting of the Cobra emergency committee to discuss the mutant coronavirus and the travel restrictions imposed by the French and a string of other countries in Europe and beyond. Sainsbury's warned that disruption could hit supplies of lettuce, some salad leaves, cauliflowers, broccoli and citrus fruit, all of which are imported from the continent at this time of year. Mr Djebarri said there would be a "solid health protocol" to "protect our nationals and our fellow citizens" while allowing movement to resume.
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he closure of cross-channel routes until at least Wednesday has alarmed businesses
Brexit: Lorry driver shares concerns over no deal 'waiting times'
Measures being considered in France include the possibility of testing the country's nationals to allow them to return from the UK. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said emergency measures were being put in place to cope with a backlog of lorries heading for the Channel ports. But he sought to play down the potential impact, stressing that container freight was not hit by the ban on people crossing the border and hauliers were "quite used to anticipating disruption". The disused Manston Airport in Kent would be used as a lorry park, while Operation Stack, the contingency measures used to queue on the M20 whenever there is disruption at the channel, was already in place. DON'T MISS Border POLL: Did Macron close borders to try and force 'bad Brexit'? [POLL]
Dover and Eurotunnel shut: How long will the border be shut? [INSIGHT]
BBC host erupts at French MP for 'damage and disruption' in Kent ban [VIDEO]
EU countries reliant on UK fishing waters


thedailyexpress--2020-12-21--Border blockade POLL: Did Macron close borders to try and force 'bad Brexit deal'? VOTE

The French Government has banned all travel between the UK and France for the next 48 hours after a more infectious strain of COVID-19 was identified in London and the South East of England .
The ban has blocked the UK ’ s main haulage route at the port of Dover for goods going to and from mainland Europe .
This poll is now closed , please check this LINK for the results .
Around 4,000 lorries had intended to leave the UK through Kent today but were met with signs stating “ French borders closed ” , sparking fears @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The emergence of a new strain of COVID-19 , coupled by port closures and the increased threat of a no deal Brexit , also prompted the pound to plummet against the euro and US dollar .
London ’ s financial markets also suffered a huge set back after the FTSE 100 recorded losses of more than £30billion when trading began at 8am .
The border closures between the UK and France comes just 10 days before the end of the Brexit transition period .
Post-Brexit trade talks remain at a deadlock with both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outcome on December 31 .
Outstanding issues remain over the so-called level playing field on competition and fisheries – with France leading the calls for access to UK waters .
Nigel Farage has branded the EU “ bullies ” and claimed the bloc was attempting to force the UK into signing a “ bad deal ” .
Reacting to the news of border closures on Twitter , Mr Farage said : “ We are dealing with thugs and bullies who want to make us sign a bad deal .
“ Time to walk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Former Brexit Party MEP Martin Daubney also took aim at the EU and singled out Mr Macron for the disruption .
He said : “ Tailbacks for miles .
Sterling plummets .
Not caused by Brexit , but Macron .
That beloved Prince of the Europhiles .
“ Yet still the Remainers seem happy .
‘ Have a taste of # BrexitIsland they trill .
READ MORE : Farage warns EU 'bullies ' have blockaded border to force UK hand “ They want Britain to fail solely so they can say ‘ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a sad mindset.
” French government spokesman Gabriel Attal gave an update on Brexit talks this afternoon and confirmed they would be sticking to its red-lines regarding fishing .
The Department for Transport has played down the threat of further disruption at the border - with French officials in discussions to re-open transport links later today .
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said hauliers were `` quite used to anticipating disruption '' , adding there were variations in supply `` all the time '' .
Boris Johnson playing into Starmer 's hands with Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s Netflix deal could produce ‘ stuff of nightmares ' [ ANALYSIS ] BBC Weather : Carol Kirkwood forecasts UK to be battered by heavy rain [ FORECAST ]

Brexit: Ben Habib urges UK to 'pull the plug' on negotiations
The French Government has banned all travel between the UK and France for the next 48 hours after a more infectious strain of COVID-19 was identified in London and the South East of England. The ban has blocked the UK’s main haulage route at the port of Dover for goods going to and from mainland Europe. This poll is now closed, please check this LINK for the results.
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Around 4,000 lorries had intended to leave the UK through Kent today but were met with signs stating “French borders closed”, sparking fears of a shortage of vital supplies. The emergence of a new strain of COVID-19, coupled by port closures and the increased threat of a no deal Brexit, also prompted the pound to plummet against the euro and US dollar. London’s financial markets also suffered a huge set back after the FTSE 100 recorded losses of more than £30billion when trading began at 8am. The border closures between the UK and France comes just 10 days before the end of the Brexit transition period.
Did Macron close borders to try and force 'bad Brexit deal'? Vote now
Long queues have formed on the M20 after France closed the border
Post-Brexit trade talks remain at a deadlock with both sides on course for a no deal outcome on December 31. Outstanding issues remain over the so-called level playing field on competition and fisheries – with France leading the calls for access to UK waters. Nigel Farage has branded the EU “bullies” and claimed the bloc was attempting to force the UK into signing a “bad deal”. Reacting to the news of border closures on Twitter, Mr Farage said: “We are dealing with thugs and bullies who want to make us sign a bad deal.
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Nigel Farage has lashed out at the EU
“Time to walk away, to hell with the EU.” Former Brexit Party MEP Martin Daubney also took aim at the EU and singled out Mr Macron for the disruption. He said: “Tailbacks for miles. Sterling plummets. Not caused by Brexit, but Macron. That beloved Prince of the Europhiles. “Yet still the Remainers seem happy. ‘Have a taste of #BrexitIsland they trill. READ MORE: Farage warns EU 'bullies' have blockaded border to force UK hand
France has shut the border with the UK for 48 hours
“They want Britain to fail solely so they can say ‘I told you so’. What a sad mindset.” French government spokesman Gabriel Attal gave an update on Brexit talks this afternoon and confirmed they would be sticking to its red-lines regarding fishing. The Department for Transport has played down the threat of further disruption at the border - with French officials in discussions to re-open transport links later today. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said hauliers were "quite used to anticipating disruption", adding there were variations in supply "all the time". DON'T MISS Boris Johnson playing into Starmer's hands with Brexit rhetoric [INSIGHT]
Meghan and Harry’s Netflix deal could produce ‘stuff of nightmares' [ANALYSIS]
BBC Weather: Carol Kirkwood forecasts UK to be battered by heavy rain [FORECAST]
A timeline of Brexit talks with between the UK and EU


thedailyexpress--2020-12-21--Covid restrictions on the way - Vallance warns mutation to push more areas into lockdown

The Government 's chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance has warned more areas in the UK could be plunged into Tier 4 restrictions .
Speaking at Downing Street , Sir Patrick said : `` The evidence on this virus is that it spreads easily , it 's more transmissible , we absolutely need to make sure we have the right level of restrictions in place .
I think it is likely that this will grow in numbers of the variant across the country and I think it 's likely , therefore , that measures will need to be increased in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not reduced .
`` I think it is the case that this will spread more . ''
He said there is no reason to think the new variant is more dangerous than the existing strain .
Sir Patrick continued : `` Evidence that this can transmit more readily is becoming clear in terms of the data of the rapid spread of this virus across areas .
`` The transmission is increased , but we ca n't say exactly by how much , but it is clearly substantially increased , so it is more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it growing so fast and spreading to so many areas .
READ MORE : SEISS : Self-employed left 'undermined ' as extended support is needed '' There is no evidence that the disease course is any different , so if you catch it the disease looks the same as any other form of Covid infection .
`` In terms of the immune response , there is nothing to suggest that this wo n't have the same susceptibility to antibody attack from vaccine or pre-existing infection as any other form .
`` At the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it should be as effective and that 's obviously being looked at . ''
It comes as health chiefs have urged anyone who travelled to regions from Tier 4 areas or Wales to self isolate , turn away Christmas Day visitors and `` assume '' they have the new Covid-19 variant .
On Monday afternoon , public health directors in the West Midlands and Greater Manchester asked people to self isolate for 10 days if they had travelled from London and areas of the South East , which entered Tier 4 at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new measures came into force on Sunday .
In Liverpool City Region , where a mass coronavirus testing pilot has been taking place , anyone who had travelled from London or the South East to the area was urged to get a coronavirus test .
Director of public health for the Lancashire authority of Blackburn with Darwen Dominic Harrison told BBC Lancashire anyone who had travelled from a Tier 4 area since last Wednesday should self-isolate for at least five days .
The advice came after scenes of people packing railway stations in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into force at midnight on Sunday , prompting fears the more infectious new variant could be spread across the country by the travellers .
Director of public health for Tameside , Greater Manchester , Dr Jeanelle de Gruchy said : `` The new strain of Covid , which is increasing rapidly in Tier 4 areas , is extremely worrying .
Covid mutant strain is now 'all over UK ' - Vallance in warning [ INSIGHT ] Manchester LOCKDOWN : Southerners who fled London must stay inside [ ANALYSIS ] Bring on Jan 1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no deal Brexit [ VIDEO ] '' It is incredibly infectious and if you come in to contact with someone with this strain you are far more likely to catch it than the original strain .
`` We are so concerned about the potential grave impact of this that we have taken the difficult decision to ask anyone who has travelled here for Christmas from any Tier 4 area or Wales to act as if they have this new variant , even if they have no symptoms , and self-isolate for at least @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the house do not need to self isolate but no visitors should be allowed in that house at all , even on Christmas Day . ''
A statement issued on behalf of all the West Midlands health chiefs also urged people to `` self-isolate for at least 10 days '' .

Patrick Vallance warns of 'increased’ measures due to COVID strain
The Government's chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance has warned more areas in the UK could be plunged into Tier 4 restrictions. Speaking at Downing Street, Sir Patrick said: "The evidence on this virus is that it spreads easily, it's more transmissible, we absolutely need to make sure we have the right level of restrictions in place. I think it is likely that this will grow in numbers of the variant across the country and I think it's likely, therefore, that measures will need to be increased in some places, in due course, not reduced.
Trending
"I think it is the case that this will spread more." He said there is no reason to think the new variant is more dangerous than the existing strain. Sir Patrick continued: "Evidence that this can transmit more readily is becoming clear in terms of the data of the rapid spread of this virus across areas. "The transmission is increased, but we can't say exactly by how much, but it is clearly substantially increased, so it is more transmissible, which is why we see it growing so fast and spreading to so many areas. READ MORE: SEISS: Self-employed left 'undermined' as extended support is needed
Sir Patrick Vallance has warned more areas of the UK could face Tier 4 restrictions
Sir Patrick said the new strain is likely to spread rapidly in the country
"There is no evidence that the disease course is any different, so if you catch it the disease looks the same as any other form of Covid infection. "In terms of the immune response, there is nothing to suggest that this won't have the same susceptibility to antibody attack from vaccine or pre-existing infection as any other form. "At the moment, the vaccine looks as though it should be as effective and that's obviously being looked at." It comes as health chiefs have urged anyone who travelled to regions from Tier 4 areas or Wales to self isolate, turn away Christmas Day visitors and "assume" they have the new Covid-19 variant. On Monday afternoon, public health directors in the West Midlands and Greater Manchester asked people to self isolate for 10 days if they had travelled from London and areas of the South East, which entered Tier 4 at the weekend, or Wales, where tough new measures came into force on Sunday.
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Greater Manchester asked people to self isolate for 10 days if they travelled from London
Keir Starmer: New COVID-19 variant was 'spotted in September'
In Liverpool City Region, where a mass coronavirus testing pilot has been taking place, anyone who had travelled from London or the South East to the area was urged to get a coronavirus test. Director of public health for the Lancashire authority of Blackburn with Darwen Dominic Harrison told BBC Lancashire anyone who had travelled from a Tier 4 area since last Wednesday should self-isolate for at least five days. The advice came after scenes of people packing railway stations in London hours before Tier 4 controls came into force at midnight on Sunday, prompting fears the more infectious new variant could be spread across the country by the travellers. Director of public health for Tameside, Greater Manchester, Dr Jeanelle de Gruchy said: "The new strain of Covid, which is increasing rapidly in Tier 4 areas, is extremely worrying. DON'T MISS Covid mutant strain is now 'all over UK' - Vallance in warning [INSIGHT]
Manchester LOCKDOWN: Southerners who fled London must stay inside [ANALYSIS]
Bring on Jan 1! Grant Shapps declares UK ready for no deal Brexit [VIDEO]
Coronavirus new strain map


thedailyexpress--2020-12-22--'Lips are moving but no substance' Andrew Neil in brutal slapdown of Labour's Covid rants

Asked whether the Labour Party thinks Tier 4 restrictions should be introduced `` more quickly '' , Shadow Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Rachel Reeves told Sky News her Party 's stance is to `` follow the science '' .
She said : `` It 's Labour 's position that we should follow the science on all this .
We 're urging Government to publish the scientific advice when it comes in , not with a lag .
`` What we saw back in the autumn was that Sage made recommendations on the 21st of September for a circuit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ publish the minutes of that Sage meeting until the 10th of October .
`` They were three wasted weeks when the public did n't know the scale of the challenge we faced or the scientific advice .
`` Let 's not have that lag . ''
But the Labour MP was blasted by BBC veteran Andrew Neil who took to Twitter to express his outrage .
READ MORE : Panic-buying chaos erupts AGAIN as supermarket shelves stripped bare He wrote : `` The lips are moving , a sound is emanating but of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ demand that the government should do whatever the scientists tell it . ''
It comes as more than 1,500 lorries are backed up in Kent , unable to make the crossing to France , with drivers having spent a second night sleeping in their cabs .
Home Secretary Priti Patel said the Government is `` speaking constantly '' with France to achieve a resolution `` in both our interests '' to get freight moving again .
But she defended the Government 's handling of the pandemic , insisting ministers had been `` ahead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
More than 40 countries have banned flights from the UK due to a mutant variant of coronavirus spreading through the country , but it is the French decision to also ban hauliers which has caused the greatest concern .
A possible solution could be mass testing of HGV drivers , while the BBC reported that plans to reopen the border will come into effect from Wednesday , citing French Europe Minister Clement Beaune .
Andrew Opie , director of food and sustainability at the British Retail Consortium , said the `` borders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ freely from tomorrow to assure us that there wo n't be any disruption '' .
He told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme : `` There is a problem potentially directly after Christmas and that is really in fresh produce , so we 're talking here about things like salad , vegetables , fresh fruit , of which the vast majority come from Europe at this time . ''
The main problem was empty lorries stuck in Kent unable to head over to the continent to reload with fresh supplies , he said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Firms 'explore ' coronavirus-negative 'Freedom passes ' [ INSIGHT ] 'Scandalous ' : French union boss launches scathing attack on Macron [ VIDEO ] A quarter of Brits have flouted COVID restrictions to see family [ ANALYSIS ]

Rachel Reeves urges government to ‘act when scientists say’
Asked whether the Labour Party thinks Tier 4 restrictions should be introduced "more quickly", Shadow Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Rachel Reeves told Sky News her Party's stance is to "follow the science". She said: "It's Labour's position that we should follow the science on all this. We're urging Government to publish the scientific advice when it comes in, not with a lag.
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"What we saw back in the autumn was that Sage made recommendations on the 21st of September for a circuit breaker. "The Government didn't publish the minutes of that Sage meeting until the 10th of October. "They were three wasted weeks when the public didn't know the scale of the challenge we faced or the scientific advice. "Let's not have that lag." But the Labour MP was blasted by BBC veteran Andrew Neil who took to Twitter to express his outrage. READ MORE: Panic-buying chaos erupts AGAIN as supermarket shelves stripped bare
Andrew Neil says Labour has 'no substance' in criticism against PM's coronavirus plans
Labour's Rachel Reeves says Government should 'follow the science'
He wrote: "The lips are moving, a sound is emanating but of substance there is none, bar the demand that the government should do whatever the scientists tell it." It comes as more than 1,500 lorries are backed up in Kent, unable to make the crossing to France, with drivers having spent a second night sleeping in their cabs. Home Secretary Priti Patel said the Government is "speaking constantly" with France to achieve a resolution "in both our interests" to get freight moving again. But she defended the Government's handling of the pandemic, insisting ministers had been "ahead of the curve" in tackling coronavirus. More than 40 countries have banned flights from the UK due to a mutant variant of coronavirus spreading through the country, but it is the French decision to also ban hauliers which has caused the greatest concern.
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UK travel ban: French MP defends coronavirus restrictions
A possible solution could be mass testing of HGV drivers, while the BBC reported that plans to reopen the border will come into effect from Wednesday, citing French Europe Minister Clement Beaune. Andrew Opie, director of food and sustainability at the British Retail Consortium, said the "borders really need to be running pretty much freely from tomorrow to assure us that there won't be any disruption". He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "There is a problem potentially directly after Christmas and that is really in fresh produce, so we're talking here about things like salad, vegetables, fresh fruit, of which the vast majority come from Europe at this time." The main problem was empty lorries stuck in Kent unable to head over to the continent to reload with fresh supplies, he said. DON'T MISS:
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'Scandalous': French union boss launches scathing attack on Macron [VIDEO]
A quarter of Brits have flouted COVID restrictions to see family [ANALYSIS]
Coronavirus Tier 4 areas in the UK


thedailyexpress--2020-12-22--Listen up, Macron! EU Commission demands member states DROP travel ban against UK

Eurocrats have drawn up a “ co-ordinated response ” for the bloc to follow amid efforts to stop the new mutation of the disease spreading to the Continent .
Under the plans , member states will are encouraged to set up “ green lanes ” to protect the flow of goods .
And they were also told that bans on “ all non-essential travel to and form the UK should be discouraged ” .
The Commission said : “ It is important to take swift temporary precautionary action to limit the further spread of the new strain of the virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK should be discouraged , essential travel and transit of passengers should be facilitated.
” The EU 's executive added : “ Flight and train bans should be discontinued given the need to ensure essential travel and avoid supply chain disruptions.
” Didier Reynders , the EU ’ s justice commissioner , said : “ Given the current uncertainties and in light of the precautionary principle , member states should take coordinated action to discourage non-essential travel between the UK and the EU .
“ At the same time , blanket travel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and UK citizens from returning to their homes .

Spain announce travel ban for UK flights amid coronavirus strain
Eurocrats have drawn up a “co-ordinated response” for the bloc to follow amid efforts to stop the new mutation of the disease spreading to the Continent. Under the plans, member states will are encouraged to set up “green lanes” to protect the flow of goods. And they were also told that bans on “all non-essential travel to and form the UK should be discouraged”.
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The Commission said: “It is important to take swift temporary precautionary action to limit the further spread of the new strain of the virus and all non-essential travel to and from the UK should be discouraged, essential travel and transit of passengers should be facilitated.” The EU's executive added: “Flight and train bans should be discontinued given the need to ensure essential travel and avoid supply chain disruptions.” Didier Reynders, the EU’s justice commissioner, said: “Given the current uncertainties and in light of the precautionary principle, member states should take coordinated action to discourage non-essential travel between the UK and the EU. “At the same time, blanket travel bans should not prevent thousands of EU and UK citizens from returning to their homes.
EU Commission calls for halt to UK travel bans amid Covid scare
“While precautions are needed to contain the spread of the new coronavirus variant, with today's Recommendation, we therefore ensure that the restrictions are coordinated and provide for the necessary exemptions for citizens and residents returning home and other essential travellers.” Eurocrats said Emmanuel Macron's call for truckers coming from Britain to be subjected to strict testing requirements "should not lead to transport disruptions." They have proposed using rapid testing to ensure lorries can travel back to the Continent without more significant delays. But ultimately the decision will be left up to member states who are set to meet later this after noon to discussion the restrictions.
The Netherlands is planning to lift its ban on travellers from Britain as long as they have tested negative for COVID-19. Travellers who enter the country will then have to remain in quarantine for 10 days, according to transport minister Cora van Nieuwenhuizen. However France and Britain are at odds over introducing a similar scheme to ensure lorry drivers can travel onto the Continent.
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Mr Macron wants truck drivers to be given PCR tests, which take between 24 and 48 hours to return a result. The government is understood to be calling for lateral flow tests, which use saliva and can produce a result within 20 minutes. “How do we ensure lorry drivers isolate?” a government source told the Times. “And what do we do with their freight?”


thedailyexpress--2020-12-22--'Scandalous': French union boss launches scathing attack on Macron over border closure

Sebastien Rivera , general secretary of the Pays De Calais branch of the National Federation of Road Transport ( FNTR ) said it was `` scandalous '' that the French Ministry of Transport had left drivers with so little guidance about what was happening - and asked why lorries were still being permitted to travel in the other direction , from France to the UK .
Mr Rivera was speaking after the imposition of the ban in response to the emergence of a new , more contagious strain of COVID-19 in the UK , which has prompted numerous countries to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there is a real health hazard , why have you left the border open in the direction France to GB .
`` Today several thousand HGVs find themselves stranded in the UK in unworthy conditions . ''
Mr Rivera explained : `` After Sunday evening 's decision to block the border for 48 hours in the GB direction to France , most French companies have decided not to send their drivers to the GB given the risk of not being able to return for Christmas .
`` On the other hand , there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ according to our estimates who were already in the UK and who are currently blocked . ''
Mr Rivera added : `` The Ministry of Transport does not give us a concrete procedure to ensure the repatriation of our drivers .
JUST IN : Nigel Farage fears ‘ very bad news ’ from EU over Brexit 'acid test' Materially speaking the costs were enormous , he added , putting the loss per truck per day at €1,000 , meaning roughly £500,000 a day in total .
Mr Rivera said he also feared the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his drivers could expect after the end of the year , especially in the event of the UK and the EU failing to strike a post-Brexit trade deal .
He said : `` With Brexit we fear again long waits with the new customs and security procedures to be respected . ''
Meanwhile Transport Secretary Grant Shapps urged hauliers hoping to head to France not to travel to Kent , warning they `` may become stuck for longer '' .
He said : `` A reminder to all hauliers that the French have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Please do not travel to Kent as you will be unable to cross and may become stuck for longer . ''
Speaking to Sky News today , Home Secretary Priti Patel said : `` We speak to our colleagues in France constantly on a range of issues and that work has been underway over the last 24 hours and we 'll continue today .
`` We 'll see what materialises today .

Dover: Lorries fill roads as France travel ban continues
Sebastien Rivera, general secretary of the Pays De Calais branch of the National Federation of Road Transport (FNTR) said it was "scandalous" that the French Ministry of Transport had left drivers with so little guidance about what was happening - and asked why lorries were still being permitted to travel in the other direction, from France to the UK. Mr Rivera was speaking after the imposition of the ban in response to the emergence of a new, more contagious strain of COVID-19 in the UK, which has prompted numerous countries to ban flights from Britain.
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He told Express.co.uk: "I find this decision nonsensical. "If there is a real health hazard, why have you left the border open in the direction France to GB. "Today several thousand HGVs find themselves stranded in the UK in unworthy conditions."
The ban imposed by Emmanuel Macron's France has seen large numbers of lorries parked at Dover
France ban: Another aerial shot of lorries at Dover
Mr Rivera explained: "After Sunday evening's decision to block the border for 48 hours in the GB direction to France, most French companies have decided not to send their drivers to the GB given the risk of not being able to return for Christmas. "On the other hand, there are still more than 500 French drivers according to our estimates who were already in the UK and who are currently blocked." Mr Rivera added: "The Ministry of Transport does not give us a concrete procedure to ensure the repatriation of our drivers. JUST IN: Nigel Farage fears ‘very bad news’ from EU over Brexit 'acid test'
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France ban: Lorries parked at Dover
Clement Beaune with French President Emmanuel Macron
Home Secretary Priti Patel has said both sides are working towards a solution
Materially speaking the costs were enormous, he added, putting the loss per truck per day at €1,000, meaning roughly £500,000 a day in total. Mr Rivera said he also feared the episode was just a foretaste of what his drivers could expect after the end of the year, especially in the event of the UK and the EU failing to strike a post-Brexit trade deal. He said: "With Brexit we fear again long waits with the new customs and security procedures to be respected."
Covid-19 strain: Where the new variant has been detected
Meanwhile Transport Secretary Grant Shapps urged hauliers hoping to head to France not to travel to Kent, warning they "may become stuck for longer". He said: "A reminder to all hauliers that the French have not re-opened the border to France. "Please do not travel to Kent as you will be unable to cross and may become stuck for longer." Speaking to Sky News today, Home Secretary Priti Patel said: "We speak to our colleagues in France constantly on a range of issues and that work has been underway over the last 24 hours and we'll continue today. "We'll see what materialises today.
UK transport secretary Grant Shapps


thedailyexpress--2020-12-22--Frost admitted EU demands are 'manifestly imbalanced' despite claims UK will back down

Talks between the EU and UK remain on a knife-edge , but it has emerged that Lord Frost is set to back down on fishing quotas should the bloc follow suit in some of their demands .
The UK is reportedly ready to lower its demand for a 60 percent reduction in the EU catch to 35 percent , signifying a major backtrack .
The EU ’ s chief negotiator , Michel Barnier , had previously asked for a 25 percent reduction in the bloc ’ s catch .
But the demands set by the EU were described previously by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' , and that the terms would be `` incompatible with the UK 's future as an independent coastal state '' .
After each round of talks , Lord Frost has taken a similar stance , making Monday 's breakthrough even more surprising .
In May , he argued : “ We can not agree arrangements that are manifestly unbalanced and against the interests of the UK fishing industry .
“ It is hard to understand why the EU insists on an ideological approach which makes it more difficult to reach a mutually @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need a change in EU approach for the next negotiation round.
” At the European Commission , where the update on Brexit talks was given , Brussels maintained its stance that there be `` status quo '' access to UK waters .
This , Mr Barnier said , would be similar to the continuation of the current Common Fisheries Policy .
Lord Frost sustained this position , as he told the Government that `` the UK 's sovereignty , over our laws , our courts , or fishing waters , is not up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an update on trade negotiations in August .
JUST IN : Boris and von der Leyen hold secret Brexit phone call in bid to bre ...
He added that the UK `` will not accept anything which compromises it - just as we are n't looking for anything which threatens the integrity of the EU 's single market '' .
The talks would subsequently continue to hinge on fishing , the level playing field and state aid , but offering an update on Twitter in November , Lord Frost again claimed a deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` But for a deal to be possible it must fully respect UK sovereignty .
“ That is not just a word - it has practical consequences .
`` That includes : controlling our borders ; deciding ourselves on a robust and principled subsidy control system ; and controlling our fishing waters . ''
DO N'T MISS : Is Frost buckling to the EU over fishing ?
UK just made a clever move [ ANALYSIS ] Sturgeon 's plea to extend Brexit transition period dismantled [ INSIGHT ] Brexit vote NEXT WEEK : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on December 30 [ LATEST ] Lord Frost 's previous comments underline how important fishing has become as a vital crux within trade talks .
While the UK maintains it wants to take back control of its waters , the EU are unhappy at the prospect of being offered no chance to fish in the lucrative British seas .
The Netherlands and France have been particular opponents of this .
Both Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen , have said in recent days they were still hopeful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there being just days left before a deal must be reached , and then enforced .
Should no deal be reached between the two sides , the UK will begin trading with the EU on World Organisation Terms on December 31 , a structure of trading similar to Australia 's relationship with the bloc .
However , fishermen argue that if no deal is found , the UK 's fishing industry will benefit massively as it will be able to fish untroubled by their counterparts in Brussels .
Senior economist Harry Western explained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hugely disadvantaged by the current allocation of catches in the UK ’ s territorial waters '' .
He argued that analysis on the waters showed a `` reallocation of catches based on the ‘ zonal attachment ’ principle '' may result in the UK 's fish landings increasing by an impressive 50 to 60 percent .

Brexit: Patel says there are 'no plans' for deadline extension
Talks between the EU and UK remain on a knife-edge, but it has emerged that Lord Frost is set to back down on fishing quotas should the bloc follow suit in some of their demands. The UK is reportedly ready to lower its demand for a 60 percent reduction in the EU catch to 35 percent, signifying a major backtrack. The EU’s chief negotiator, Michel Barnier, had previously asked for a 25 percent reduction in the bloc’s catch.
Trending
But the demands set by the EU were described previously by Lord Frost as being "manifestly unbalanced", and that the terms would be "incompatible with the UK's future as an independent coastal state". After each round of talks, Lord Frost has taken a similar stance, making Monday's breakthrough even more surprising. In May, he argued: “We cannot agree arrangements that are manifestly unbalanced and against the interests of the UK fishing industry. “It is hard to understand why the EU insists on an ideological approach which makes it more difficult to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
Frost admitted EU demands are 'manifestly imbalanced' despite claims UK will back down
Brexit news: David Frost and EU counterpart Michel Barnier
“We very much need a change in EU approach for the next negotiation round.” At the European Commission, where the update on Brexit talks was given, Brussels maintained its stance that there be "status quo" access to UK waters. This, Mr Barnier said, would be similar to the continuation of the current Common Fisheries Policy. Lord Frost sustained this position, as he told the Government that "the UK's sovereignty, over our laws, our courts, or fishing waters, is not up for discussion", when pressed for an update on trade negotiations in August. JUST IN: Boris and von der Leyen hold secret Brexit phone call in bid to bre...
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Brexit: Fishing has become a major sticking point in talks
He added that the UK "will not accept anything which compromises it - just as we aren't looking for anything which threatens the integrity of the EU's single market". The talks would subsequently continue to hinge on fishing, the level playing field and state aid, but offering an update on Twitter in November, Lord Frost again claimed a deal "was possible", adding: "But for a deal to be possible it must fully respect UK sovereignty. “That is not just a word - it has practical consequences. "That includes: controlling our borders; deciding ourselves on a robust and principled subsidy control system; and controlling our fishing waters." DON'T MISS:
Is Frost buckling to the EU over fishing? UK just made a clever move [ANALYSIS]
Sturgeon's plea to extend Brexit transition period dismantled [INSIGHT]
Brexit vote NEXT WEEK: Boris ready to ask MPs to return on December 30 [LATEST]
Brexit: Fishing For Leave have been critical of talks
Lord Frost's previous comments underline how important fishing has become as a vital crux within trade talks. While the UK maintains it wants to take back control of its waters, the EU are unhappy at the prospect of being offered no chance to fish in the lucrative British seas. The Netherlands and France have been particular opponents of this. Both Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, have said in recent days they were still hopeful a deal can be struck - despite there being just days left before a deal must be reached, and then enforced.
Michel Barnier in London in October for Brexit talks
Should no deal be reached between the two sides, the UK will begin trading with the EU on World Organisation Terms on December 31, a structure of trading similar to Australia's relationship with the bloc. However, fishermen argue that if no deal is found, the UK's fishing industry will benefit massively as it will be able to fish untroubled by their counterparts in Brussels. Senior economist Harry Western explained that the UK fishing industry is "hugely disadvantaged by the current allocation of catches in the UK’s territorial waters". He argued that analysis on the waters showed a "reallocation of catches based on the ‘zonal attachment’ principle" may result in the UK's fish landings increasing by an impressive 50 to 60 percent.
Brexit: EU countries reliant on UK waters


thedailyexpress--2020-12-22--It's still no! EU rejects Boris Johnson's latest fishing offer as chances of deal crumble

Britain had offered lower its demands for future fishing quotas if Brussels agrees to back down in other areas of the agreement .
The proposal would have seem British fishermen reclaim 30-35 per cent of the value of fish , worth around £590 million , that European boats now catch in our waters .
The offer was said to have been discussed during a secret telephone call between Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen on Monday .
The EU was said to be unhappy with the UK 's offer of a five-year transition period to phase in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is pushing for much longer , with its current demand at seven years .
The length of the clause is understood to be key in convincing French President Emmanuel Macron to back any compromise on fishing .
UK and EU officials refused to comment on the exact details of the discussion , but did n't deny the secret phone call had happened .
It has since emerged the two leaders held a second phone call in an attempt to break the deadlock .
They 've agreed to stay in `` constant contact '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mrs von der Leyen could also hold calls with President Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel as the negotiations move on .
“ We ’ re in constant contact with all parties involved , ” a source said.
” Much of Mr Johnson and Mrs von der Leyen 's wrangling is understood to be centred around the bloc 's ability to hit Britain with punative tariffs if our fishing waters are closed to European boats in the future .
The EU is demanding a review clause that could suspend free trade altogether , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ billions .
Eurocrats want this to be a unilateral decision taken if they feel future negotiations over fishing opportunities end in an unsatisfactory outcome for the bloc .
Downing Street had hoped its move to lower demands on fishing quotas would allow Mr Barnier to back down in other areas of the agreement .
MUST READ : Is Frost buckling to the EU over fishing ?
UK just made a clever move

Brexit: Patel says there are 'no plans' for deadline extension
Britain had offered lower its demands for future fishing quotas if Brussels agrees to back down in other areas of the agreement. The proposal would have seem British fishermen reclaim 30-35 per cent of the value of fish, worth around £590 million, that European boats now catch in our waters. The offer was said to have been discussed during a secret telephone call between Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen on Monday.
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The EU was said to be unhappy with the UK's offer of a five-year transition period to phase in the post-Brexit arrangements for fishing. Brussels is pushing for much longer, with its current demand at seven years. The length of the clause is understood to be key in convincing French President Emmanuel Macron to back any compromise on fishing. UK and EU officials refused to comment on the exact details of the discussion, but didn't deny the secret phone call had happened.
Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen have discussed a fresh fisheries proposal
It has since emerged the two leaders held a second phone call in an attempt to break the deadlock. They've agreed to stay in "constant contact", according to an EU source. Mrs von der Leyen could also hold calls with President Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel as the negotiations move on. “We’re in constant contact with all parties involved,” a source said.”
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Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen will remain in 'constant contact' with Boris Johnson
Much of Mr Johnson and Mrs von der Leyen's wrangling is understood to be centred around the bloc's ability to hit Britain with punative tariffs if our fishing waters are closed to European boats in the future. The EU is demanding a review clause that could suspend free trade altogether, slapping Britain with tariffs costing hundreds of billions. Eurocrats want this to be a unilateral decision taken if they feel future negotiations over fishing opportunities end in an unsatisfactory outcome for the bloc. Downing Street had hoped its move to lower demands on fishing quotas would allow Mr Barnier to back down in other areas of the agreement. MUST READ: Is Frost buckling to the EU over fishing? UK just made a clever move
What EU and UK must do to ensure Brexit trade deal is in place for January 1
Brexit: UK 'absolutely ready' for no deal scenario says Hancock


thedailyexpress--2020-12-22--Macron blasted as British fishermen lose staggering £5 million a day over travel ban

The gobsmacking figure was revealed by the Chief Executive of Seafood Scotland , Donna Fordyce , who told Sky News most of the products held at Dover and Kent were meant for the Spanish market .
She said : `` At the moment it 's £5 million a day that goes out for this week .
This week is the busiest week of the year for Scottish seafood going into the European market .
`` So we 're looking at £5 million a day being lost . ''
The United Kingdom was stuck in COVID-19 isolation on Tuesday after much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ due to a highly infectious new coronavirus strain , halting one of Europe 's most important trade routes just days before the Brexit cliff edge .
With queues of trucks snaking to the horizon in England and supermarket shelves stripped just days before Christmas , British Prime Minister Boris Johnson scrambled to get French President Emmanuel Macron to lift a ban on freight from Britain .
Johnson and his advisers said the mutated variant of the novel coronavirus , which could be up to 70 percent more transmissible , was spreading rapidly but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scientists were so efficient at genomic surveillance .
READ MORE : Boris Johnson ’ s plan for 22-mile bridge across Channel The BBC cited France 's Europe Minister Clément Beaune as saying that Britain and France would announce a deal to restart freight by Wednesday .
`` We speak to our colleagues in France constantly on a range of issues and that work has been underway over the last 24 hours and we 'll continue today , '' British Home Secretary Priti Patel told Sky News .
`` We 'll see what materialises @ @ @ @ @ @ @ led to some panic-buying in the country : shoppers stripped shelves in some supermarkets of turkey , toilet roll , bread and vegetables .
While the government said there was enough food for Christmas , market leader Tesco and No .
2 player Sainsbury 's both said food supplies would be affected if the disruption continued .
Supermarkets are seeking to source more from Britain and looking into alternative transport for produce from Europe , including using ferries directly from Spain and increasing stock from the Netherlands .
Andrew Opie , director of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Consortium , said the `` borders really need to be running pretty much freely from tomorrow to assure us that there wo n't be any disruption '' .
He told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme : `` There is a problem potentially directly after Christmas and that is really in fresh produce , so we 're talking here about things like salad , vegetables , fresh fruit , of which the vast majority come from Europe at this time .
`` The problem actually is empty lorries , so the empty lorries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they need to get back to places like Spain to pick up the next consignment of raspberries and strawberries and they need to get back within the next day or so , otherwise we will see disruption . ''
DO N'T MISS : Border POLL : Did Macron close borders to try and force 'bad Brexit ' ?
[ POLL ] Caller shames France for ruining Christmas to 'flex Brexit muscles ' [ VIDEO ] 'Britons SICK of never ending Brexit ! '
Macron warned UK will not cave [ REACTION ] He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can be cleared today , there 'll be minimal impact for consumers - remember the shops are shut on Christmas Day which takes one day of buying out of the equation , but those lorries that are stuck in Kent , they do need to get back within the next day . ''
Government sources told the PA news agency that discussions with the French government are `` ongoing '' after Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday evening that the two countries are working `` to unblock the flow of trade as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Kent was closed on Monday night to allow for the implementation of Operation Brock - contingency measures which involve using a moveable barrier to keep traffic moving on the motorway whenever there is disruption at the Channel .

Scotland losing £5 million a day in seafood exports says expert
The gobsmacking figure was revealed by the Chief Executive of Seafood Scotland, Donna Fordyce, who told Sky News most of the products held at Dover and Kent were meant for the Spanish market. She said: "At the moment it's £5 million a day that goes out for this week. This week is the busiest week of the year for Scottish seafood going into the European market.
Trending
"So we're looking at £5 million a day being lost." The United Kingdom was stuck in COVID-19 isolation on Tuesday after much of the world cut off travel ties due to a highly infectious new coronavirus strain, halting one of Europe's most important trade routes just days before the Brexit cliff edge. With queues of trucks snaking to the horizon in England and supermarket shelves stripped just days before Christmas, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson scrambled to get French President Emmanuel Macron to lift a ban on freight from Britain. Johnson and his advisers said the mutated variant of the novel coronavirus, which could be up to 70 percent more transmissible, was spreading rapidly but that it had been identified because British scientists were so efficient at genomic surveillance. READ MORE: Boris Johnson’s plan for 22-mile bridge across Channel
Emmanuel Macron imposed a travel ban on the UK this week
France travel ban is costing Scottish fishermen £5 million a day, says Donna Fordyce
The BBC cited France's Europe Minister Clément Beaune as saying that Britain and France would announce a deal to restart freight by Wednesday. "We speak to our colleagues in France constantly on a range of issues and that work has been underway over the last 24 hours and we'll continue today," British Home Secretary Priti Patel told Sky News. "We'll see what materialises today." Britain's border crisis led to some panic-buying in the country: shoppers stripped shelves in some supermarkets of turkey, toilet roll, bread and vegetables. While the government said there was enough food for Christmas, market leader Tesco and No. 2 player Sainsbury's both said food supplies would be affected if the disruption continued.
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France: Travel ban for lorries 'could last 48 hours' says expert
Supermarkets are seeking to source more from Britain and looking into alternative transport for produce from Europe, including using ferries directly from Spain and increasing stock from the Netherlands. Andrew Opie, director of food and sustainability at the British Retail Consortium, said the "borders really need to be running pretty much freely from tomorrow to assure us that there won't be any disruption". He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "There is a problem potentially directly after Christmas and that is really in fresh produce, so we're talking here about things like salad, vegetables, fresh fruit, of which the vast majority come from Europe at this time. "The problem actually is empty lorries, so the empty lorries which are now stuck in Kent, they need to get back to places like Spain to pick up the next consignment of raspberries and strawberries and they need to get back within the next day or so, otherwise we will see disruption." DON'T MISS:
Border POLL: Did Macron close borders to try and force 'bad Brexit'? [POLL]
Caller shames France for ruining Christmas to 'flex Brexit muscles' [VIDEO]
'Britons SICK of never ending Brexit!' Macron warned UK will not cave [REACTION]


thedailyexpress--2020-12-22--Is Frost REALLY buckling to the EU over fishing? How UK just made a very clever move

Before yesterday the future relationship negotiations were at a complete standstill with both sides refusing to move from their respective positions in the battle over future access to Britain ’ s fishing waters .
Sensing his gruelling efforts to find an agreement could fall apart over fishing quotas worth less than £91 million , Lord Frost floated a significant compromise in talks with his EU counterpart Michel Barnier .
The proposal would see British fishermen reclaim 35 per cent of the value of fish , worth around £590 million , that European boats now catch in our waters .
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hardline EU coastal states to secure near-parity access to UK fishing grounds , would be able to claim he has maintained about two thirds of the European fleet ’ s access .
The Brussels diplomat was previously pushing for 75 percent , with Britain ’ s starting offer was at 40 percent .
Lord Frost ’ s latest offer , if accepted by the EU , would hand Britain ’ s fishing industry a much-needed £207 million boost after years of misery living under the Common Fisheries Policy .
An analysis by Matt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Changing Europe think-tank , shows the new quota offer would ensure 72 percent of fish by value caught in our waters would be netted by British boats .
Under the EU ’ s CFP arrangements , they receive far less than the amounts currently being discussed at the negotiating table in Brussels .
But more importantly , Lord Frost sees his move at key in delivering on Boris Johnson ’ s promise to become an independent coastal state after the end of the transition period in nine days .
The UK Brexit envoy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Barnier agrees to back down in other areas of the agreement .
One of the most contentious issues is a transition period to phase in the post-Brexit arrangements for fishing .
Brussels was initially pushing for a 10-year term , while Britain ’ s opening gambit was for three years as a cushion for the changes .
But the two sides could meet in the middle ground with a five-year transition period , which is considered acceptable under international laws .
And the final , and most difficult , issue to overcome was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mechanism to compensate for future reductions in fishing quotas .
The bloc is demanding a review clause that could suspend free trade altogether , slapping Britain with punitive tariffs costing hundreds of billions .
But Lord Frost ’ s lower demands on fish quotas could pave the way to a new , softer mechanism that wouldn ’ t allow Brussels to disproportionately punish Britain for closing its coastal waters .
EU and UK negotiators recognise this as the toughest issue to bridge and one that the entire post-Brexit trade deal could collapse around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adviser in Downing Street , set out a plan for future disputes to be settled via an joint arbitration panel .
“ In a scenario where the EU quota share is reduced from the levels agreed at the end of the transition , an independent arbitration panel would determine the economic cost of that loss to the EU and allow the EU to levy tariffs in other areas beyond fishing to compensate , ” he wrote on the Politico website .
DO N'T MISS Priti Patel slaps down chance of extending Brexit deadline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
Britain would STILL vote to demolish ties with bloc [ POLL ] ‘ Irresponsible ’ France uses border FURY to take Brexit swipe [ REVEALED ]

Brexit: Patel says there are 'no plans' for deadline extension
Before yesterday the future relationship negotiations were at a complete standstill with both sides refusing to move from their respective positions in the battle over future access to Britain’s fishing waters. Sensing his gruelling efforts to find an agreement could fall apart over fishing quotas worth less than £91 million, Lord Frost floated a significant compromise in talks with his EU counterpart Michel Barnier. The proposal would see British fishermen reclaim 35 per cent of the value of fish, worth around £590 million, that European boats now catch in our waters.
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Mr Barnier, who is under pressure from hardline EU coastal states to secure near-parity access to UK fishing grounds, would be able to claim he has maintained about two thirds of the European fleet’s access. The Brussels diplomat was previously pushing for 75 percent, with Britain’s starting offer was at 40 percent. Lord Frost’s latest offer, if accepted by the EU, would hand Britain’s fishing industry a much-needed £207 million boost after years of misery living under the Common Fisheries Policy. An analysis by Matt Bevington, of the UK in a Changing Europe think-tank, shows the new quota offer would ensure 72 percent of fish by value caught in our waters would be netted by British boats.
Lord Frost's clever offer on fishing quotas could unlock deal that delivers Boris Johnson's pledges
Lord Frost is the UK's chief Brexit negotiator
Under the EU’s CFP arrangements, they receive far less than the amounts currently being discussed at the negotiating table in Brussels. But more importantly, Lord Frost sees his move at key in delivering on Boris Johnson’s promise to become an independent coastal state after the end of the transition period in nine days. The UK Brexit envoy tabled the compromise under the proviso Mr Barnier agrees to back down in other areas of the agreement. One of the most contentious issues is a transition period to phase in the post-Brexit arrangements for fishing.
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Michel Barnier is under pressure from hardline EU states to keep up fisheries stance
Brussels was initially pushing for a 10-year term, while Britain’s opening gambit was for three years as a cushion for the changes. But the two sides could meet in the middle ground with a five-year transition period, which is considered acceptable under international laws. And the final, and most difficult, issue to overcome was the EU’s insistence on a mechanism to compensate for future reductions in fishing quotas. The bloc is demanding a review clause that could suspend free trade altogether, slapping Britain with punitive tariffs costing hundreds of billions. MUST READ: Boris Johnson issues brutal Brexit ultimatum to Michel Barnier
What needs to be done to have a Brexit deal in place by January 1
But Lord Frost’s lower demands on fish quotas could pave the way to a new, softer mechanism that wouldn’t allow Brussels to disproportionately punish Britain for closing its coastal waters. EU and UK negotiators recognise this as the toughest issue to bridge and one that the entire post-Brexit trade deal could collapse around. Raoul Ruparel, a former special adviser in Downing Street, set out a plan for future disputes to be settled via an joint arbitration panel. “In a scenario where the EU quota share is reduced from the levels agreed at the end of the transition, an independent arbitration panel would determine the economic cost of that loss to the EU and allow the EU to levy tariffs in other areas beyond fishing to compensate,” he wrote on the Politico website. DON'T MISS
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thedailyexpress--2020-12-22--Nigel Farage fears ‘very bad news’ from EU as Boris Johnson fails Brexit ‘acid test’

Mr Farage was speaking after widespread reports suggested UK chief negotiator Lord David Frost was preparing to sign the UK up for a deal which would cut demands for a 60 percent reduction in the catch by value in British waters to 35 percent - much nearer to the 25 percent proposed by the EU .
The issue is highly controversial , and would breach the red lines insisted upon by many Brexiteers including the Brexit Party leader himself .
Mr Farage told Express.co.uk : `` I have always said said that fishing would be the acid test of Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bad news . ''
Mr Farage , one of 29 Brexit Party MEPs elected last year , is a long-term sceptic about Mr Johnson 's motives .
He was highly critical after the Prime Minister and Ursula von der Leyen , President of the European Commission , issued a statement in which they pledged to continue working towards a deal .
The former UKIP leader tweeted : `` Following yet another phone call between Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen , she repeats both sides are working on a “ Partnership Agreement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we didn ’ t vote for a new EU treaty @ BorisJohnson . ''
READ MORE : 'Britons SICK of never ending Brexit ! '
Macron warned UK will not cave On Sunday , in reaction to France 's decision to impose a 48-hour ban on UK lorries crossing the Channel in response to the emergence of a more contagious strain of COVID-19 in the UK , Mr Farage tweeted : `` We are dealing with thugs and bullies who want to make us sign a bad deal .
Time to walk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Speaking to Express.co.uk last month , Ann Widdecombe , another former Brexit Party MEP who was also a prominent Tory MP and minister , likewise suggested a sell-out could be close .
Miss Widdecombe said : `` When people say 95 percent of the deal is done , 95 percent of the deal was always going to be done .
`` The things that remain are the stumbling blocks and Boris now should say 'it is obvious you do n't want a deal and are rushing it through , but you will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our terms ' .
`` The be-all and the end-all is that Boris is just weak . ''

Brexit: Nigel Farage outlines Johnson's 'fundamental mistake'
Mr Farage was speaking after widespread reports suggested UK chief negotiator Lord David Frost was preparing to sign the UK up for a deal which would cut demands for a 60 percent reduction in the catch by value in British waters to 35 percent - much nearer to the 25 percent proposed by the EU. The issue is highly controversial, and would breach the red lines insisted upon by many Brexiteers including the Brexit Party leader himself.
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This looks like more very bad news Nigel Farage
Mr Farage told Express.co.uk: "I have always said said that fishing would be the acid test of Brexit. "This looks like more very bad news." Mr Farage, one of 29 Brexit Party MEPs elected last year, is a long-term sceptic about Mr Johnson's motives.
Nigel Farage believes Boris Johnson is about to fail the Brexit
He was highly critical after the Prime Minister and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, issued a statement in which they pledged to continue working towards a deal. The former UKIP leader tweeted: "Following yet another phone call between Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen, she repeats both sides are working on a “Partnership Agreement”. "We voted to leave, we didn’t vote for a new EU treaty @BorisJohnson." READ MORE: 'Britons SICK of never ending Brexit!' Macron warned UK will not cave
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Nigel Farage's tweet earlier this week
EU negotiator Michel Barnier
On Sunday, in reaction to France's decision to impose a 48-hour ban on UK lorries crossing the Channel in response to the emergence of a more contagious strain of COVID-19 in the UK, Mr Farage tweeted: "We are dealing with thugs and bullies who want to make us sign a bad deal. Time to walk away, to hell with the EU. Speaking to Express.co.uk last month, Ann Widdecombe, another former Brexit Party MEP who was also a prominent Tory MP and minister, likewise suggested a sell-out could be close.
Ann Widdecombe was scathing about Mr Johnson last month
Miss Widdecombe said: "When people say 95 percent of the deal is done, 95 percent of the deal was always going to be done. "The things that remain are the stumbling blocks and Boris now should say 'it is obvious you don't want a deal and are rushing it through, but you will get no deal unless you come to our terms'. "The be-all and the end-all is that Boris is just weak."


thedailyexpress--2020-12-22--Michel Barnier to make Brexit announcement: What time is Barnier speaking today?

Brexit talks continue again this week after a weekend of negotiations between Michel Barnier and Lord Frost in Brussels failed to make any further progress .
A UK Government source said the discussions had been `` difficult '' and that `` significant differences '' remain over fisheries and the so-called `` level playing field rules '' .
The EU had previously said talks needed to be concluded by Sunday evening , but should a deal be made in the next few days an agreement could be provisionally signed off before being fully rated in 2021 .
Mr Barnier has told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to achieving `` a fair , reciprocal and balanced agreement ” , but said Britain must respect the bloc ’ s sovereignty if talks were to succeed .
But speaking from Downing Street on Monday night , the Prime Minister continued with his tough stance on Brexit , insisting Britain “ has got to be able to control its own laws completely ” .
He said : “ It remains the case that WTO terms would be more than satisfactory for the UK .
And we can certainly cope with any difficulties that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Not that we do n't want a deal , but WTO terms would be entirely satisfactory .
Prosper mightily remains an extremely good description of life after January 1 either way . ''

Boris Johnson reveals Macron 'understands' UK position
Brexit talks continue again this week after a weekend of negotiations between Michel Barnier and Lord Frost in Brussels failed to make any further progress. A UK Government source said the discussions had been "difficult" and that "significant differences" remain over fisheries and the so-called "level playing field rules". The EU had previously said talks needed to be concluded by Sunday evening, but should a deal be made in the next few days an agreement could be provisionally signed off before being fully rated in 2021.
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Mr Barnier has told Boris Johnson that the EU remained committed to achieving "a fair, reciprocal and balanced agreement”, but said Britain must respect the bloc’s sovereignty if talks were to succeed. But speaking from Downing Street on Monday night, the Prime Minister continued with his tough stance on Brexit, insisting Britain “has got to be able to control its own laws completely”. He said: “It remains the case that WTO terms would be more than satisfactory for the UK. And we can certainly cope with any difficulties that are thrown in our way. "Not that we don't want a deal, but WTO terms would be entirely satisfactory. Prosper mightily remains an extremely good description of life after January 1 either way." READ MORE: Boris Johnson issues brutal Brexit ultimatum to Michel Barnier
Michel Barnier to make Brexit announcement: What time is Barnier speaking today?
Michel Barnier Brexit announcement: Barnier and Frost have failed to com to a deal
READ MORE Frost set to BACK DOWN on fishing demands - UK on brink of Brexit deal Mr Johnson’s bullish tone comes after Downing Street dismissed calls to extend the transition period. As it stands, this will end at 11pm GMT on December 31, 2020 - whether the UK has agreed a deal or not. But London Mayor Sadiq Khan and Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon backed calls for the deadline to be extended as Britain battles the goring coronavirus pandemic. Labour leader Keir Starmer declined to join them, instead urging Mr Johnson to secure a deal with the EU. The Prime Minister's official spokesman conceded that "time is obviously in very short supply" to get a deal done but dismissed any calls for an extension. He added: "We will need to ratify any agreement ahead of January 1. The Leader of the House made clear that we would recall Parliament in order to give MPs a vote on the necessary legislation."
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Michel Barnier Brexit announcement: Brexit talks continue again this week
Michel Barnier Brexit announcement: Michel Barnier is expected to make an announcement today
What time is Barnier speaking today? Michel Barnier is expected to make an announcement on Brexit at 3pm, according to DailyFX. It is expected the lead Brexit negotiator will meet EU27 ambassadors to deliver a state of play briefing on the negotiations. While this is expected to be behind closed doors, he is due to have a similar meeting with the EU Parliament's Brexit committee - the UK Co-ordination Group - after he meets ambassadors. Express.co.uk will update this story when more information comes to light. DON'T MISS
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Brexit LIVE: Boris warned he'll NEVER be forgiven on fishing sell out [LIVE]
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thedailyexpress--2020-12-22--Priti Patel issues very blunt reply to Sturgeon after she demanded Brexit extension

Britain and the European Union still remain apart in negotiations over a free trade agreement with a number of sticking @ @ @ @ @ progressing .
During an interview with Sky News , the Home Secretary was quizzed by @ @ @ @ @ of extending the transition period past the December 31 2020 deadline .
Mr Paterson said @ @ @ @ @ pretty definitively ruled out but it is always useful to hear from someone as senior @ @ @ @ @ there any plans or temptation to seek some form of extension to that Brexit transition @ @ @ @ @ : `` No there is not . ''
On Sunday , Scotland 's First Minister @ @ @ @ @ seek an extension to the trade talks with the European Union .

Brexit: Patel says there are 'no plans' for deadline extension
Britain and the European Union still remain apart in negotiations over a free trade agreement with a number of sticking points stopping the talks from progressing. During an interview with Sky News, the Home Secretary was quizzed by Niall Paterson on the possibility of extending the transition period past the December 31 2020 deadline.
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Mr Paterson said: "It has been pretty definitively ruled out but it is always useful to hear from someone as senior as yourself. "Are there any plans or temptation to seek some form of extension to that Brexit transition?" Ms Patel replied: "No there is not." On Sunday, Scotland's First Minister called for Boris Johnson to seek an extension to the trade talks with the European Union. READ MORE: Brexit warning: Richard Tice tells Boris Johnson 'don't bottle it!'
Priti Patel has been the Home Secretary since 2019
Nicola Sturgeon has been Scotland's First Minister for over half a decade
Nicola Sturgeon tweeted: "It’s now imperative that PM seeks an agreement to extend the Brexit transition period. "The new Covid strain - & the various implications of it - means we face a profoundly serious situation, & it demands our 100% attention. It would be unconscionable to compound it with Brexit." The UK and European Union remain in talks over a post-Brexit trade agreement. However, the deadline for the free trade agreement to be struck is rapidly approaching.
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Brexit: Priti Patel dismisses claims on security issues
Brexit: The stages of the UK and EU securing a trade agreement


thedailyexpress--2020-12-23--Ursula von der Leyen tells EU nations to prepare for urgent Brexit deal meeting TOMORROW

The UK and EU have been closing in on a deal in recent days , with hopes both sides can overcome the contentious issues of the so-called level playing field , and fisheries .
With just days until the end of the transition period , the European Commission has told member states to be ready for a meeting on Thursday , if a deal is finalised today , according to EU sources .
The UK and the EU remain divided over competition and fishing as both sides try to clinch a Brexit trade deal in time to avoid a turbulent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Express.co.uk also understands European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Minister Boris Johnson are expected to hold another call on a trade deal later today ahead of the crucial meeting .
Both politicians spoke on Monday in a bid to close the gaps over fishing .
The coordination between both sides was a change of tone from Mr Johnson after claiming that the most likely outcome is failure to reach a deal , with the UK then relying on World Trade Organisation terms - meaning tariffs and quotas on trade @ @ @ @

Brexit: Current deal ‘doesn’t respect us’ says Robert Jenrick
With just days until the end of the transition period, the European Commission has told member states to be ready for a meeting on Thursday if a deal is finalised today. Negotiations between Lord Frost and Michel Barnier are ongoing in what is expected to be the final day of talks before Christmas.
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The UK and the EU remain divided over competition and fishing as both sides attempt to secure Brexit trade deal in time to avoid a split at the end of the transition period. Express.co.uk also understands European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Minister Boris Johnson are expected to hold another call on a trade deal later today ahead of the crucial meeting. Both politicians spoke on Monday in a bid to close the gaps over fishing. The coordination between both sides was a change of tone from Mr Johnson after claiming that the most likely outcome is a failure to reach a deal, with the UK then relying on World Trade Organisation terms - meaning tariffs and quotas on trade with the EU.
The European Commission has told member states to be ready for a meeting on Thursday
Lord Frost is currently undertaking Brexit talks with Michel Barnier
A Whitehall source close to the negotiations told Express.co.uk appeared to be "upbeat" today expressing hopes for a deal to be secured. But they made clear "divisions" still remained and aspects remained "difficult." "We are getting closer" the source concluded. Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said he was "reasonably optimistic" that a late deal will be agreed before the current trading arrangements expire at the end of the month. READ MORE: Boris could secure Brexit deal by TONIGHT
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Brexit talks are ongoing today
Boris Johnson said any trade deal should respect "UK sovereignty"


thedailyexpress--2020-12-23--Sturgeon admits ‘there are no excuses’ over Covid breach as pressure grows on her to quit

Scotland 's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon told Holyrood that there are no excuses for her breaking COVID-19 guidelines .
Ms @ @ @ @ @ three people at a social distance but with her face uncovered during a wake .
@ @ @ @ @ `` I want to take this opportunity to say how sorry I am for my @ @ @ @ @ ask all of us to follow every single day .
`` I took my face @ @ @ @ @ a funeral last week .
`` I am sure everyone will have seen in the @ @ @ @ @ of me without it .
`` I want to be clear today that regardless of @ @ @ @ @ the wrong , there are no excuses . ''
READ MORE : Nicola Sturgeon branded @ @ @ @ @ she pushes SNP agenda

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon told Holyrood that there are no excuses for her breaking COVID-19 guidelines. Ms Sturgeon was pictured talking to three people at a social distance but with her face uncovered during a wake.
The SNP leader said: "I want to take this opportunity to say how sorry I am for my breach of rules that I ask all of us to follow every single day.
"I took my face mask off while briefly attending a funeral last week.
"I am sure everyone will have seen in the media this morning a picture of me without it.
"I want to be clear today that regardless of the circumstances I was in the wrong, there are no excuses."
READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon branded an 'evil mastermind' as she pushes SNP agenda