thedailyexpress--2020-09-08--Europe explodes as Boris prepares to break international law to secure clean break Brexit

Senior politicians across the European Union hit out at Boris Johnson ’ s move to water down trade checks between Northern Ireland and Great Britain .
The Prime Minister was accused of running roughshod over the EU Withdrawal Agreement he concluded with Brussels last year .
Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis conceded the Government ’ s Internal Market Bill would go against the treaty in a “ specific and limited way ” .
He told MPs : “ Yes , this does break international law in a very specific and limited way .
“ We are taking the power to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ required by Article 4 in certain , very tightly defined circumstances . ''
Angry Euro politicians insisted the move would diminish Britain ’ s standing on the world stage and undermine the future relationship talks with Brussels .
Nathalie Loiseau , a former French Europe minister , said : “ You don ’ t ‘ break international law in a specific and limited way ’ .
You do break it or you do n't .
“ You can ’ t be half illegal , as you can ’ t be half pregnant .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Verhofstadt branded the Government ’ s strategy to ensure a clean break from Brussels as `` astonishing '' .
The Belgian MEP also praised former prime minister Theresa May ’ s criticism of the plan as “ spot on ” .
Irish MP Neale Richmond fumed : “ Is it OK if someone steals a car or robs a bank in a very specific and limited way ?
No , it is not .
“ International agreements or treaties can not be overridden by domestic legislation and this answer by the Secretary of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worrying and can not go unchallenged .
We need immediate clarity on this .
“ Does the UK Government intend to break part of a Treaty it negotiated and voted for .
Specific and limited doesn ’ t matter.
” Dacian Ciolos , leader of the European liberals , said : “ Under the leadership of Prime Minister Boris Johnson the UK is close to losing its international credibility .
“ The Withdrawal Agreement has been signed .
It must be respected.
” MUST READ : Sir John Redwood shames EU for 'disrespecting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ May ’ s intervention , he added : “ Good that a former UK prime minister reminds the current one of this crucial reality.
” Norbert Rottgen , chair of the German parliament ’ s influential foreign affairs committee , added : “ Avoiding a hard border on the Irish island has been a crucial part of the Brexit negotiations .
“ Johnson ’ s go it alone attempt with the Internal Market Bill would undermine any trust left in the process .
But for post-Brexit we need trust and more , not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ claimed Mr Johnson ’ s plan to break international law to ensure a smooth split with Brussels will have “ huge negative consequences ” for the Brexit trade talks .
“ If true , it would be a massive blow to the UK ’ s international reputation and have huge negative consequences on the current talks with the EU , ” the EU diplomat said .
“ It would be in Britain ’ s best interest to clarify its plans now urgently and assure the EU that it will continue to honour its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ circumstances .
“ If the UK chose not to respect its international obligations , it would undermine its international standing . ''
DO N'T MISS Boris urged to follow new trading blueprint with Switzerland [ ANALYSIS ] Brexit BEGINS : Japan fast-tracks UK trade talks - agreement possible [ INSIGHT ] Pound tumbles against dollar in 4 week low - it may fall further [ FORECAST ]

Brexit: Theresa May issues warning about Northern Ireland U-turn
Senior politicians across the European Union hit out at Boris Johnson’s move to water down trade checks between Northern Ireland and Great Britain. The Prime Minister was accused of running roughshod over the EU Withdrawal Agreement he concluded with Brussels last year. Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis conceded the Government’s Internal Market Bill would go against the treaty in a “specific and limited way”.
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He told MPs: “Yes, this does break international law in a very specific and limited way. “We are taking the power to dis-apply the EU concept of direct effect required by Article 4 in certain, very tightly defined circumstances." Angry Euro politicians insisted the move would diminish Britain’s standing on the world stage and undermine the future relationship talks with Brussels. Nathalie Loiseau, a former French Europe minister, said: “You don’t ‘break international law in a specific and limited way’. You do break it or you don't.
European politicians vent fury as Boris Johnson's Northern Ireland border plans come under attack
Prime Minister Boris Johnson plans to rip up parts of his Brexit deal with Brussels
“You can’t be half illegal, as you can’t be half pregnant." Former EU Parliament Brexit Coordinator Guy Verhofstadt branded the Government’s strategy to ensure a clean break from Brussels as "astonishing". The Belgian MEP also praised former prime minister Theresa May’s criticism of the plan as “spot on”. Irish MP Neale Richmond fumed: “Is it OK if someone steals a car or robs a bank in a very specific and limited way? No, it is not.
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Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis
“International agreements or treaties cannot be overridden by domestic legislation and this answer by the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland is at best worrying and cannot go unchallenged. We need immediate clarity on this. “Does the UK Government intend to break part of a Treaty it negotiated and voted for. Specific and limited doesn’t matter.” Dacian Ciolos, leader of the European liberals, said: “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Boris Johnson the UK is close to losing its international credibility. “The Withdrawal Agreement has been signed. It must be respected.” MUST READ: Sir John Redwood shames EU for 'disrespecting UK sovereignty' in row
Guy Verhofstadt attacked the UK's plan as 'astonishing'
On Mrs May’s intervention, he added: “Good that a former UK prime minister reminds the current one of this crucial reality.” Norbert Rottgen, chair of the German parliament’s influential foreign affairs committee, added: “Avoiding a hard border on the Irish island has been a crucial part of the Brexit negotiations. “Johnson’s go it alone attempt with the Internal Market Bill would undermine any trust left in the process. But for post-Brexit we need trust and more, not less, cooperation.” A European source claimed Mr Johnson’s plan to break international law to ensure a smooth split with Brussels will have “huge negative consequences” for the Brexit trade talks. “If true, it would be a massive blow to the UK’s international reputation and have huge negative consequences on the current talks with the EU,” the EU diplomat said. “It would be in Britain’s best interest to clarify its plans now urgently and assure the EU that it will continue to honour its commitments under the Withdrawal Agreement under all circumstances. “If the UK chose not to respect its international obligations, it would undermine its international standing." DON'T MISS
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thedailyexpress--2020-09-08--Scotland economy crisis: Scots face council tax rises of up to 50% - dire warning to SNP

The Convention of Scottish Local Authorities ( COSLA ) has urged Holyrood to give more powers to local councils to set taxes .
It also asks to remove the cap for the rate of council tax which councils can set - this currently sits at three percent .
The demands are part of a new Blueprint for Local Government document launched by COSLA today .
The organisation highlighted the role of local authorities in response to the coronavirus pandemic and warned without `` proper resourcing '' cuts to council services are inevitable , risking the country 's recovery from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commitment to `` fair funding '' including funding for health and social care which `` accounts for our new financial realities '' and reversing ring-fencing of cash for children 's services and education .
COSLA said £500m of additional funding would be needed to help prop up Scottish councils as authorities warn they face “ devastating ” financial black holes .
The blueprint document added the lack of funding has “ immediate and long-term implications for Local Government ’ s ability to both manage the financial impacts of COVID-19 and continue to deliver @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fair funding for Local Government must be a central priority for Scotland , '' it added .
Councillor Graham Houston , Vice President of COSLA , said : “ Scottish local government must be further empowered to bring about the change we now need .
`` The financial impacts of COVID-19 have been severe and have placed extreme pressure on already strained council budgets and on our workforce .
READ MORE : EU shuts down Nicola Sturgeon plot after SNP Brexit alarm bells ring '' Without proper resourcing we will see reductions in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ furthering the inequalities highlighted by the pandemic and putting at risk the very recovery we seek . ''
COSLA has claimed Scottish councils face £423m in “ loss of income ” , £62m of “ unique costs ” , £162m in “ local government mobilisation ” and £52m worth of savings that were not achieved .
They also claim that current legislation means any deficit would have to be met through an increase in council tax next year : A previously leaked COSLA paper claimed that “ given the initial forecasts from Local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increase in 2021/22 in excess of 50 percent.
” DO N'T MISS : Tory plot launched to overthrow new SNP hate crime bill [ REVEAL ] SNP civil war as Nicola Sturgeon attacked by OWN MP - division erupt [ INSIGHT ] Sturgeon and Boris clash as she accuses PM of blocking ‘ democracy ’ [ LATEST ] “ Council tax legislation ... should be amended to allow a financial deficit , attributed to COVID-19 , to be repaid over a period of time significantly in excess of one year , ” it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Councils had suffered a decade of underfunding with as much as £898.8m cut from non-ring fenced revenue budgets in real terms since 2013/2014 alone .
Scottish Labour local government spokesperson Sarah Boyack said the Scottish Government should open cross-party talks on how to empower Scotland ’ s councils with `` immediate effect '' .
The MSP said : “ The reality is that we ’ ve seen the damaging impact of increasing centralisation and underfunding of local government by the Scottish Government during the SNP ’ s time in power .
“ Local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ The Blueprint presented by COSLA offers the chance for a cross-party agreement that our councils need to be empowered with fair funding , long term certainty and more powers to make the decisions our communities need .
“ It is time for the SNP to enter into dialogue with COSLA and other parties to ensure that the micro-managing and cuts to councils end.
” In response to the concerns , a Scottish Government spokeswoman said : `` We have taken exceptional measures in every area of government as we deal with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ particularly clear in our support for local services .
`` To date , the Scottish Government has committed £379 million of additional funding to local government for COVID-19 measures , on top of the local government finance settlement of £11.4 billion from this year 's budget . ''
She said the government will continue to work with COSLA and councils , as well as pressing the UK Government for additional funding .
She added : `` Both the level and the distribution of funding to local authorities is the subject of continuous discussion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Local authorities are autonomous bodies , and it is the responsibility of individual councils to manage their own budgets and to allocate the total financial resources available to them on the basis of local needs and priorities , having first fulfilled their statutory obligations and the jointly agreed set of national and local priorities . ''

Scotland wants ‘powers’ to manage deficit says Kate Forbes
The Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA) has urged Holyrood to give more powers to local councils to set taxes. It also asks to remove the cap for the rate of council tax which councils can set - this currently sits at three percent.
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The demands are part of a new Blueprint for Local Government document launched by COSLA today. The organisation highlighted the role of local authorities in response to the coronavirus pandemic and warned without "proper resourcing" cuts to council services are inevitable, risking the country's recovery from the virus. It also calls for a commitment to "fair funding" including funding for health and social care which "accounts for our new financial realities" and reversing ring-fencing of cash for children's services and education. COSLA said £500m of additional funding would be needed to help prop up Scottish councils as authorities warn they face “devastating” financial black holes.
Pressure is on to give funding to councils
Councils across Scotland are suffering financially
The blueprint document added the lack of funding has “immediate and long-term implications for Local Government’s ability to both manage the financial impacts of COVID-19 and continue to deliver essential services.” “That is why fair funding for Local Government must be a central priority for Scotland," it added. Councillor Graham Houston, Vice President of COSLA, said: “Scottish local government must be further empowered to bring about the change we now need. "The financial impacts of COVID-19 have been severe and have placed extreme pressure on already strained council budgets and on our workforce. READ MORE: EU shuts down Nicola Sturgeon plot after SNP Brexit alarm bells ring
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COSLA is urging more funding to be given to councils
"Without proper resourcing we will see reductions in spending and inevitable cuts to services, furthering the inequalities highlighted by the pandemic and putting at risk the very recovery we seek." COSLA has claimed Scottish councils face £423m in “loss of income”, £62m of “unique costs”, £162m in “local government mobilisation” and £52m worth of savings that were not achieved. They also claim that current legislation means any deficit would have to be met through an increase in council tax next year: A previously leaked COSLA paper claimed that “given the initial forecasts from Local Authorities it would require a Council Tax increase in 2021/22 in excess of 50 percent.” DON'T MISS:
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COSLA is warning of a large shortfall in funding
“Council tax legislation...should be amended to allow a financial deficit, attributed to COVID-19, to be repaid over a period of time significantly in excess of one year,” it added. Government figures also suggested Scottish Councils had suffered a decade of underfunding with as much as £898.8m cut from non-ring fenced revenue budgets in real terms since 2013/2014 alone. Scottish Labour local government spokesperson Sarah Boyack said the Scottish Government should open cross-party talks on how to empower Scotland’s councils with "immediate effect". The MSP said: “The reality is that we’ve seen the damaging impact of increasing centralisation and underfunding of local government by the Scottish Government during the SNP’s time in power.
Scottish Labour have demanded cross-party talks to take place


thedailyexpress--2020-09-09--Labour plot to halt Boris: PM's Brexit proposal sparks fury - Starmer 'plans amendments'

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The controversial legislation which would override elements of Mr Johnson 's Brexit deal with Brussels and breach international is expected to be published today .
Downing Street had insisted changes in the Internal Market Bill were simply `` limited clarifications '' to protect the Northern Ireland peace process if they failed to secure a free trade deal with the EU .
But Northern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reaction when he confirmed to MPs the legislation would breach international law in a `` very specific and limited way '' .
There are concerns and there 's an urgent question in the Commons tomorrow on this matter A spokesman for Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer : `` The Bill has just been published and we will publish a full response as soon as possible and look at any potential amendments .
`` There are obviously serious concerns about the contents of the Bill , the implications on devolution and the implications on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said Labour was particularly concerned at potential breaches in the ministerial code if civil servants have been directed to break the law over the Withdrawal Agreement .
The spokesman said : `` Yes , there are concerns and there 's an urgent question in the Commons tomorrow on this matter . ''

PMQs: Johnson says Starmer ‘sits on the sidelines’ with Brexit
The controversial legislation which would override elements of Mr Johnson's Brexit deal with Brussels and breach international has now been published. Downing Street insists changes in the Internal Market Bill were simply "limited clarifications" to protect the Northern Ireland peace process if they failed to secure a free trade deal with the EU. But Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis provoked a furious reaction when he confirmed to MPs the legislation would breach international law in a "very specific and limited way".
There are concerns and there's an urgent question in the Commons tomorrow on this matter Labour Party spokesman
A spokesman for Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer: "The Bill has just been published and we will publish a full response as soon as possible and look at any potential amendments. "There are obviously serious concerns about the contents of the Bill, the implications on devolution and the implications on the Northern Ireland Protocol." He said Labour was particularly concerned at potential breaches in the ministerial code if civil servants have been directed to break the law over the Withdrawal Agreement. The spokesman said: "Yes, there are concerns and there's an urgent question in the Commons tomorrow on this matter."
Boris Johnson and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer
Sir Keir had earlier urged Mr Johnson not to "reopen old wounds" and to instead "get a deal, move on and concentrate on defeating coronavirus". The Bill is intended to ensure Northern Ireland can continue to enjoy unfettered access to markets in the rest of the UK. Mr Lewis said the powers the Government was taking would enable ministers to "dis-apply" the EU legal concept of "direct effect" - which requires the enforcement of EU law - in "certain, very tightly defined circumstances". READ MORE: Boris Johnson to face more Brexit resignations by team's lawyers
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Boris Johnson has come under fire over plans to break the Brexit withdrawal agreeement
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is looking at amendments to Boris Johnson's Bill
His admission led to Conservative former prime minister Theresa May warning the Government was in danger of losing the trust of other countries that it would honour its international agreements, while Labour described the admission as "absolutely astonishing". Reports of Mr Johnson's plans saw the pound plummet against the US dollar as chances of securing a post-Brexit free trade deal with the EU appear to diminish even further. It followed the shock announcement that the head of the Government Legal Department Sir Jonathan Jones had become the latest senior civil servant to quit his post.
BREXIT BULLETIN: Sign up for our special edition newsletter with exclusive insight from this week's crunch talks
Trending
Influential Irish-American US Congressman Richard Neal has urged the UK to "uphold the rule of law" and warned that any US-UK trade deal would be dependent on protecting the Good Friday Agreement. Mr Neal, who chairs the country's Ways and Means Committee which oversees trade deals, said in a statement: "The United States is a guarantor of that historic peace accord, which was approved by the people of Ireland, north and south, in an unprecedented referendum. "Every political party on the island opposes a return of a hard border. I sincerely hope the British government upholds the rule of law and delivers on the commitments it made during Brexit negotiations, particularly in regard to Irish border protocols." DON'T MISS
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Brexit timeline


thedailyexpress--2020-09-09--EU PANIC: Von der Leyen intervenes with emergency Brexit meeting – orders Gove to attend

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said the move to water down the Withdrawal Agreement signed with the bloc last year would “ break international law and undermine trust ” between the two sides .
Within minutes of the Bill ’ s publication , the top eurocrat fumed : “ Very concerned about announcements from the British Government on its intentions to breach the Withdrawal Agreement .
“ This would break international law and undermines trust .
Pacta sunt servanda equals the foundation of prosperous future relations.
” Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic called for an immediate meeting with Michael @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actions .
The pair , who sit on the UK-EU Brexit Joint Committee , had a tense stand-off on the telephone on Tuesday night .
Mr Sefcovic said : “ I expressed our strong concerns and sought assurances that the UK will fully and timely comply with the Withdrawal Agreement , including the Protocol on Northern Ireland.
” `` I made it very clear to him that the Withdrawal Agreement is not open for renegotiation .
“ The Joint Committee is there for assuring proper and timely implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reiterate this again.
” “ The Joint Committee is there for assuring proper and timely implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement , not renegotiating it .
I have to reiterate this again.
” He added Downing Street was “ fully aware what the lack of respect for the signed ratified treaties might mean for the future ” .
“ This is a matter of principle .
Of course it has direct implications on the talks about our future.
” The Brussels bureaucrat demanded for the Government to “ elaborate and respond to our strong @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Council President Charles Michel said : “ The Withdrawal agreement was concluded and ratified by both sides , it has to be applied in full .
“ Breaking international law is not acceptable and does not create the confidence we need to build our future relationship.
” France ’ s Europe minister Clement Beaune said : “ Compliance with the Withdrawal Agreement is not negotiable .
“ Commitments have been made , they must be implemented .
Among friends and allies , we must keep our word and respect the law .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we expect it from the United Kingdom.
” Downing Street insisted the move was sensible preparation for the end of the post-Brexit transition period .
A Government spokesman said : “ Michael Gove spoke with vice-president Sefcovic yesterday evening and had a constructive conversation .
On the Internal Market Bill , the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster explained the limited and reasonable steps being introduced to create a safety net that removes any ambiguity and ensures that the Government is always able to deliver on its commitments to the people of Northern @ @

Brexit: Expert urges Boris to 'regain territorial identity'
European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said the move to water down the Withdrawal Agreement signed with the bloc last year would “break international law and undermine trust” between the two sides. Within minutes of the Bill’s publication, the top eurocrat fumed: “Very concerned about announcements from the British Government on its intentions to breach the Withdrawal Agreement. “This would break international law and undermines trust. Pacta sunt servanda equals the foundation of prosperous future relations.”
Trending
Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic called for an immediate meeting with Michael Gove to discuss the Government’s actions. The pair, who sit on the UK-EU Brexit Joint Committee, had a tense stand-off on the telephone on Tuesday night. Mr Sefcovic said: “I expressed our strong concerns and sought assurances that the UK will fully and timely comply with the Withdrawal Agreement, including the Protocol on Northern Ireland.” "I made it very clear to him that the Withdrawal Agreement is not open for renegotiation. “The Joint Committee is there for assuring proper and timely implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement, not renegotiating it. I have to reiterate this again.”
European Commission demands emergency meeting to resolve Irish border row
Maros Sefcovic has demanded an immediate meeting with Michael Gove
“The Joint Committee is there for assuring proper and timely implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement, not renegotiating it. I have to reiterate this again.” He added Downing Street was “fully aware what the lack of respect for the signed ratified treaties might mean for the future”. “This is a matter of principle. Of course it has direct implications on the talks about our future.”
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European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen
The Brussels bureaucrat demanded for the Government to “elaborate and respond to our strong concerns on the Bill”. European Council President Charles Michel said: “The Withdrawal agreement was concluded and ratified by both sides, it has to be applied in full. “Breaking international law is not acceptable and does not create the confidence we need to build our future relationship.” France’s Europe minister Clement Beaune said: “Compliance with the Withdrawal Agreement is not negotiable. MUST READ: Diplomacy will be replaced by gunships if EU doesn't back down COMMENT
Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove
“Commitments have been made, they must be implemented. Among friends and allies, we must keep our word and respect the law. The European Union is committed to it, we expect it from the United Kingdom.” Markus Ferber, a senior German MEP, called for Mr Barnier to walk away from the post-Brexit trade talks. He said: “Why should we trust Boris Johnson now? “He signed the agreement he is changing now unilaterally. There is no need for any further negotiations.” Downing Street insisted the move was sensible preparation for the end of the post-Brexit transition period. A Government spokesman said: “Michael Gove spoke with vice-president Sefcovic yesterday evening and had a constructive conversation. On the Internal Market Bill, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster explained the limited and reasonable steps being introduced to create a safety net that removes any ambiguity and ensures that the Government is always able to deliver on its commitments to the people of Northern Ireland. DON'T MISS
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Brexit: UK has potential to ‘expand’ fishing industry says expert


thedailyexpress--2020-09-09--PMQS: Why are MPs wearing wheat on lapels at PMQs?

Prime Minister 's Question 's today saw the Labour Party asking several questions about the recent issues with the Government 's test and trace system and further questions regarding the new restrictions being introduced on Monday , September 14 .
But why are all MPs wearing wheat on their lapels ?
Boris Johnson will now officially announce social gatherings of more than six people will be banned in England from Monday at a news conference at 4pm on Wednesday .
But ahead of this announcement , the PM faced criticism from MPs at the House of Commons during the PMQs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus and the testing regime being `` on the verge of collapse '' .
The Labour leader asked who the PM thought is responsible for these testing issues , to which Mr Johnson said he would take `` responsibility '' for the Government 's management of the pandemic .
READ MORE : Where has Boris been ?
Questions raised over PM 's absence Mr Johnson said the incidences where people have struggled to get tests is due to the success of the Test and Trace scheme .
He said capacity increasing to 320,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Some people are not following the guidelines and that is why we are taking `` decisive steps '' to `` intensify '' our social distancing measures , to keep the economy going , keep schools open and keep this virus under control Mr Johnson added .
The PM also said he `` expects everybody in this country to obey the law '' , paving the way for his speech later today .
Why were MPs wearing wheat at the PMQs today ?
MPs wore an unusual accessory as Mr Johnson faced several questions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ independence .
The unusual accessory worn by several MPs was an ear of wheat pinned to their lapels .
The ear of wheat was worn by MPs in a bid to show support for the Back British Farming campaign aimed at raising awareness of the industry .
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[ EXPLAINER ] Coronavirus test : Can you get public transport if you have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minette Batters said : “ We are at a pivotal time for the future of farming and the food on our plates .
Nothing will determine this more than how the government shapes trade deals with countries around the world .
“ There is no doubt that the countries we are currently negotiating with are demanding access to our prized market for their agriculture products and , right now , a trade agreement could be signed with little parliamentary scrutiny .
`` This could result in a massive increase in the amount of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ways that would be illegal in this country . ''
“ Politicians have time and again stated that they will not allow this to happen .
`` There is now a clear solution on the table that will allow Parliament to be kept fully informed of the impacts any trade deal will have on the food we all consume .
`` Time is running out .
Action has to be taken now , or all the warm words will be for nothing .

PMQs: Boris Johnson addresses Extinction Rebellion protests
Prime Minister's Question's on Wednesday saw the Labour Party asking several questions about the recent issues with the Government's test and trace system and further questions regarding the new restrictions being introduced on Monday, September 14. But why are all MPs wearing wheat on their lapels?
Trending
Boris Johnson yesterday officially announced social gatherings of more than six people will be banned in England from Monday, September 14. But ahead of this announcement, the PM faced criticism from MPs at the House of Commons during the PMQs. Sir Keir Starmer questioned Mr Johnson about coronavirus and the testing regime being "on the verge of collapse". The Labour leader asked who the PM thought is responsible for these testing issues, to which Mr Johnson said he would take "responsibility" for the Government's management of the pandemic. READ MORE: Where has Boris been? Questions raised over PM's absence
PMQs: Why are MPs wearing wheat on their lapels at PMQs?
PMQs: Mr Johnson said increased testing capacity prompted increased demand for tests
READ MORE Brexit news: Internal Market Bill explained - How could UK break law? Mr Johnson said the incidences where people have struggled to get tests is due to the success of the Test and Trace scheme. He said capacity increasing to 320,000 a day has attracted greater demand. Some people are not following the guidelines and that is why we are taking "decisive steps" to "intensify" our social distancing measures, to keep the economy going, keep schools open and keep this virus under control Mr Johnson added. The PM also said he "expects everybody in this country to obey the law", paving the way for his speech later today.
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PMQs: Mr Johnson faced backlash about the recent issues with covid-tests
READ MORE Boris told to stand firm over Brexit gamble after US warning Yesterday, September 9, was Back British Farming day which commemorates UK agriculture. The National Farmers' Union tweeted: "PMQs begins in T-30 minutes! "Make sure you tune in to see which MPs are championing British farmers and wearing their wheat-pin badge". The NFU also posted an image with the House of Commons Speaker and Deputy Speaker wearing the wheat pin badges.
PMQs: Tweet from the National Farmer's Union about MPs wearing wheat-pin badges
NFU President Minette Batters said: “We are at a pivotal time for the future of farming and the food on our plates. Nothing will determine this more than how the government shapes trade deals with countries around the world. “There is no doubt that the countries we are currently negotiating with are demanding access to our prized market for their agriculture products and, right now, a trade agreement could be signed with little parliamentary scrutiny. "This could result in a massive increase in the amount of food being imported that is produced in ways that would be illegal in this country." “Politicians have time and again stated that they will not allow this to happen. "There is now a clear solution on the table that will allow Parliament to be kept fully informed of the impacts any trade deal will have on the food we all consume. "Time is running out. Action has to be taken now, or all the warm words will be for nothing.


thedailyexpress--2020-09-09--'Boris is UK's GRAVEDIGGER!' German media launches sensational attack on Prime Minister

In a blistering attack , the Prime Minister was accused of `` showing his true colours : egocentric , unpredictable , inconsiderate '' .
He has also been warned his attempts to over-rule the withdrawal agreement could speed up the collapse of the United Kingdom with Northern Ireland and Scotland feeling increasingly sidelined by Westminster 's decision-makers .
Deutschlandradio editor Burkhard Birke said : `` Why on earth did the British Prime Minister sign this EU exit treaty including the Northern Ireland Protocol ?
`` Did n't he always want a hard Brexit to free Great Britain from the shackles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Brussels ?
`` Now he is doing everything to ensure that there is a bang at the end of the year after the transition period has expired .
`` He doesn ’ t seem to care at all about the contract he concluded . ''
The withdrawal agreement calls for border-free trade on the island of Ireland , which the EU says should in some cases require checks on goods passing between Northern Ireland and Britain .
But Mr Johnson has ruled out requiring export declarations or tariffs on such goods .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ be bound by EU rules on providing state aid to companies .
Some fear a failure to agree on border arrangements could jeopardise the 1998 Good Friday Agreement which largely ended three decades of sectarian conflict in Northern Ireland .
Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin said he would speak to Mr Johnson to express `` very strong concerns '' about the initiative while his deputy Leo Varadkar called it a `` kamikaze '' threat that had backfired .
Mr Birke warned new trade legislation establishing an internal market with Northern Ireland made customs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland inevitable .
BREXIT BULLETIN : Sign up for our special edition newsletter with exclusive insight from this week 's crunch talks

Brexit: Expert urges Boris to 'regain territorial identity'
In a blistering attack, the Prime Minister was accused of "showing his true colours: egocentric, unpredictable, inconsiderate". He has also been warned his attempts to over-rule the withdrawal agreement could speed up the collapse of the United Kingdom with Northern Ireland and Scotland feeling increasingly sidelined by Westminster's decision-makers.
Boris Johnson could become the UK's gravedigger with his Brexit strategy Burkhard Birke
Deutschlandradio editor Burkhard Birke said: "Why on earth did the British Prime Minister sign this EU exit treaty including the Northern Ireland Protocol? "Didn't he always want a hard Brexit to free Great Britain from the shackles of the Eurocracy, from the dictates of Brussels? "Now he is doing everything to ensure that there is a bang at the end of the year after the transition period has expired. "He doesn’t seem to care at all about the contract he concluded."
Boris Johns has been branded the UK's 'gravedigger'
The withdrawal agreement calls for border-free trade on the island of Ireland, which the EU says should in some cases require checks on goods passing between Northern Ireland and Britain. But Mr Johnson has ruled out requiring export declarations or tariffs on such goods. He has also said Britain would not be bound by EU rules on providing state aid to companies. Some fear a failure to agree on border arrangements could jeopardise the 1998 Good Friday Agreement which largely ended three decades of sectarian conflict in Northern Ireland. READ MORE: 'Rushed’ NI Protocol jeopardises ‘UK future as independent nation'
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Boris Johnson has come under fire over the Brexit withdrawal agreeement
Brexit timeline
Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin said he would speak to Mr Johnson to express "very strong concerns" about the initiative while his deputy Leo Varadkar called it a "kamikaze" threat that had backfired. Mr Birke warned new trade legislation establishing an internal market with Northern Ireland made customs controls or even a hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland inevitable.
BREXIT BULLETIN: Sign up for our special edition newsletter with exclusive insight from this week's crunch talks
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Boris Johnson has vowed to take Britain out of the EU on December 31 with our without a deal


thedailyexpress--2020-09-09--'All he does is carp!' Boris Johnson taunts Keir Starmer over embarrassing Brexit silence

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Boris Johnson challenged Labour Party leader Keir Starmer to discuss proposed changes to the Brexit withdrawal agreement instead of remaining silent .
The Prime Minister confronted Sir Keir with a series of occasions where the Labour leader failed to make his opinion known to avoid `` offending '' his supporters .
Mr Johnson accused the Labour leader of `` sitting on the sidelines and carp '' while his Government brings the country forward .
Addressing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` When it came to reopening schools , he stayed silent because he did n't want to offend his anarchist union bosses .
`` When left-wing anarchists tried to destroy the freedom of the press , he would n't break the silence because he did n't want to offend them .
`` When it comes to sticking up for our UK internal market and for delivering on the will of the British people , one of the most important issues facing us today , he 's totally silent on this bill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Once again , he stood on his tongue , has nothing to say at all about that subject today because he does n't want to offend the huge number of his backbenches who want to overturn the decision of the people and want to take us back into the EU which is , of course , what he wants to do himself . ''
JUST IN : He FINALLY gets it !
Leo Varadkar panics as Boris Johnson 's Brexit gamble hits home

PMQs: Johnson says Starmer ‘sits on the sidelines’ with Brexit
Boris Johnson challenged Labour Party leader Keir Starmer to discuss proposed changes to the Brexit withdrawal agreement instead of remaining silent. The Prime Minister confronted Sir Keir with a series of occasions where the Labour leader failed to make his opinion known to avoid "offending" his supporters. Mr Johnson accused the Labour leader of "sitting on the sidelines and carp" while his Government brings the country forward. BREXIT BULLETIN: Sign up for our special edition newsletter with exclusive insight from this week's crunch talks
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Addressing Sir Keir during PMQs, Mr Johnson said: "When it came to reopening schools, he stayed silent because he didn't want to offend his anarchist union bosses. "When left-wing anarchists tried to destroy the freedom of the press, he wouldn't break the silence because he didn't want to offend them. "When it comes to sticking up for our UK internal market and for delivering on the will of the British people, one of the most important issues facing us today, he's totally silent on this bill that totally obsesses his backbenchers. "Once again, he stood on his tongue, has nothing to say at all about that subject today because he doesn't want to offend the huge number of his backbenches who want to overturn the decision of the people and want to take us back into the EU which is, of course, what he wants to do himself." JUST IN: He FINALLY gets it! Leo Varadkar panics as Boris Johnson's Brexit gamble hits home
Boris Johnson mocked Sir Keir about keeping silent about major issues facing the UK
Boris Johnson insisted his Government is "bringing the country forward" with its Brexit strategy
Mr Johnson continued: "This Government gets on and takes the tough decisions on behalf of the British people, delivering thousands of jobs through our kickstart scheme, a record-breaking investment in affordable housing. "And we are getting on with all our work, working with the British people and working with the Right Honourable Gentleman, if he would only do so, to get coronavirus defeated and to take our country forward. "We take the tough calls, all he does is sit on the sidelines and carp." The comments came after Sir Keir focused all of his questions during Wednesday's PMQs on the coronavirus crisis without questioning the proposed changes to the Northern Ireland protocol the Government has tabled. READ MORE: You should APOLOGISE NOW! Boris shames Starmer over attack on 'heroic NHS
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Brexit: Expert urges Boris to 'regain territorial identity'
Keir Starmer focused his PMQs efforts on the coronavirus crisis
Sir Keir Starmer's spokesman later said Labour is concerned at potential breaches in the ministerial code if civil servants have been directed to break the law over the Withdrawal Agreement. "Yes, there are concerns and there's an urgent question in the Commons tomorrow on this matter," he said. BBC Political Editor Laura Kuenssberg had previously suggested Sir Keir would stir away from questions about Brexit. Ms Kuenssberg said: "A traditional rule of politics is why interrupt your enemy if they're making a mistake? DON'T MISS Michel Barnier 'knows his position can't hold' in Brexit talks [INSIGHT]
Brexit fisheries row: France warned 'we will retaliate' [ANALYSIS]
‘Naval battle’ warning as EU braces for life without UK waters [INSIGHT]
Brexit talks between the UK and the EU are expected to conclude by December 31


thedailyexpress--2020-09-09--SNP's Ian Blackford scolded by Speaker as he calls Boris Johnson 'LIAR' in Commons row

In a furious outburst at Boris Johnson , the SNP 's Westminster leader called the Prime Minister a `` liar '' and a `` charlatan '' as the pair clashed over the latest Government 's plan to revisit the Brexit withdrawal agreement .
But Ian Blackford was forced to withdraw his insults as Speaker of the House Lindsay Hoyle scolded the Scottish politician in a humiliating slapdown .
BREXIT BULLETIN : Sign up for our special edition newsletter with exclusive insight from this week 's crunch talks The Speaker said : `` I 'm sure that the leader of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comment of being a liar .
`` No Honourable Member would do that .
`` Would you please withdraw ? ''
As the SNP politician attempted to justify his outburst , Speaker Hoyle added : `` Mr Blackford , you 're a respected member of this House .
`` You 'll do the right thing by this House and I 've accepted that you 've withdrawn it . ''
Mr Blackford branded the UK Internal Market Bill proposals `` nothing short of an attack on Scotland 's Parliament and an affront to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` This legislation breaks international law , but it also breaks domestic law .
The Prime Minister and his friends ... are creating a rogue state , one where the rule of law does not apply .
Why does the PM think that he and his friends are above the law ?
Mr Johnson replied : `` This UK Internal Market Bill is about protecting jobs , protecting growth , ensuring the fluidity and safety of our UK internal market and prosperity throughout the UK and it should be welcomed , I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ireland , in Wales and throughout the whole country . ''
Mr Blackford said : `` We saw the PM breaking the law last year with the prorogation of Parliament , we 've seen the behaviour of Dominic Cummings and we know that this Government 's prepared to break its international obligations and what the Prime Minister said is complete rubbish and the Prime Minister knows this . ''
Controversial legislation which would override elements of Boris Johnson 's Brexit deal with Brussels and breach international law will be tabled by the Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ insisted changes in the Internal Market Bill were simply `` limited clarifications '' to protect the Northern Ireland peace process if they failed to secure a free trade deal with the EU .
But Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis provoked a furious reaction when he confirmed to MPs on Tuesday that the legislation would breach international law in a `` very specific and limited way '' .
The Bill , which will be tabled on Wednesday afternoon , is intended to ensure Northern Ireland can continue to enjoy unfettered access to markets in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lewis said the powers the Government was taking would enable ministers to `` dis-apply '' the EU legal concept of `` direct effect '' - which requires the enforcement of EU law - in `` certain , very tightly defined circumstances '' .
DO N'T MISS : Keir Starmer squirms as he fails to address Jeremy Corbyn stance [ VIDEO ] France says Boris is bluffing and insists EU wo n't cave on fish [ INSIGHT ] Pound to euro exchange rate : What will Brexit mean for the pound ?
[ ANALYSIS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prime minister Theresa May warning the Government was in danger of losing the trust of other countries that it would honour its international agreements , while Labour described the admission as `` absolutely astonishing '' .
Sir Keir Starmer urged Mr Johnson not to `` reopen old wounds '' and to instead `` get a deal , move on and concentrate on defeating ( coronavirus ) '' .
The row erupted as the pound plummeted against the US dollar amid fears that Mr Johnson 's chances of securing a post-Brexit free trade deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ followed the shock announcement that the head of the Government Legal Department Sir Jonathan Jones had become the latest senior civil servant to quit his post .
No reason was given for his resignation , but the Financial Times reported that he was `` very unhappy '' with the proposed changes to the Withdrawal Agreement .
The Prime Minister 's official spokesman said : `` I can confirm that he is stepping down and we would thank him for his years of hard service and wish him well for the future . ''

PMQs: Blackford scolded by speaker for 'charlatan' comment
In a furious outburst at Boris Johnson, the SNP's Westminster leader called the Prime Minister a "liar" and a "charlatan" as the pair clashed over the latest Government's plan to revisit the Brexit withdrawal agreement. But Ian Blackford was forced to withdraw his insults as Speaker of the House Lindsay Hoyle scolded the Scottish politician in a humiliating slapdown. BREXIT BULLETIN: Sign up for our special edition newsletter with exclusive insight from this week's crunch talks
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The Speaker said: "I'm sure that the leader of the SNP would like to withdraw that last comment of being a liar. "No Honourable Member would do that. "Would you please withdraw?" As the SNP politician attempted to justify his outburst, Speaker Hoyle added: "Mr Blackford, you're a respected member of this House. "You'll do the right thing by this House and I've accepted that you've withdrawn it." READ MORE: Boris Johnson taunts Keir Starmer over embarrassing Brexit silence
SNP's Ian Blackford forced to withdraw 'liar' comment in the House
SNP Ian Blackford called Boris Johnson a liar and a charlatan
Mr Blackford branded the UK Internal Market Bill proposals "nothing short of an attack on Scotland's Parliament and an affront to the people of Scotland". He said: "This legislation breaks international law, but it also breaks domestic law. The Prime Minister and his friends... are creating a rogue state, one where the rule of law does not apply. Why does the PM think that he and his friends are above the law? Mr Johnson replied: "This UK Internal Market Bill is about protecting jobs, protecting growth, ensuring the fluidity and safety of our UK internal market and prosperity throughout the UK and it should be welcomed, I believe, in Scotland, in Northern Ireland, in Wales and throughout the whole country." Mr Blackford said: "We saw the PM breaking the law last year with the prorogation of Parliament, we've seen the behaviour of Dominic Cummings and we know that this Government's prepared to break its international obligations and what the Prime Minister said is complete rubbish and the Prime Minister knows this."
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Michel Barnier arrives in London ahead of further Brexit talks
Controversial legislation which would override elements of Boris Johnson's Brexit deal with Brussels and breach international law will be tabled by the Government on Wednesday afternoon. Downing Street had insisted changes in the Internal Market Bill were simply "limited clarifications" to protect the Northern Ireland peace process if they failed to secure a free trade deal with the EU. But Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis provoked a furious reaction when he confirmed to MPs on Tuesday that the legislation would breach international law in a "very specific and limited way". The Bill, which will be tabled on Wednesday afternoon, is intended to ensure Northern Ireland can continue to enjoy unfettered access to markets in the rest of the UK. Mr Lewis said the powers the Government was taking would enable ministers to "dis-apply" the EU legal concept of "direct effect" - which requires the enforcement of EU law - in "certain, very tightly defined circumstances". DON'T MISS:
Keir Starmer squirms as he fails to address Jeremy Corbyn stance [VIDEO]
France says Boris is bluffing and insists EU won't cave on fish [INSIGHT]
Pound to euro exchange rate: What will Brexit mean for the pound? [ANALYSIS]


thedailyexpress--2020-09-09--France says Boris Johnson is bluffing and orders EU not to fold on fisheries demands

Trade minister Franck Riester believes Prime Minister Boris Johnson is pursuing a “ bluffing strategy ” over his threat to walk away from the trade talks without an agreement .
Despite the tensions , the Frenchman insisted a Brexit deal is still possible if both sides can reach a consensus on the so-called “ level playing field ” and access to the UK 's fishing grounds .
Paris is adamant it won ’ t rubber-stamp a future relationship until it receives guarantees Downing Street won ’ t slash state subsidies , environmental and workers ’ rights regulations to make British @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ There ’ s a game of bluff going on , ” Mr Riester told the FT. “ We ’ ll try to stay calm and serene but firmly behind the line of the EU27… In any deal , in the end there is a compromise that can come into play .
“ But that is unattainable for the moment because the UK is not moving on the essential matter , which is the ability to ensure that trade is fair.
” Britain ’ s chief Brexit negotiator Lord Frost and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ today for the eighth round of negotiations .
Their relationship has been strained after it was confirmed Mr Johnson is prepared to break international law to ensure a smooth Brexit .
Ireland ’ s deputy prime minister Leo Varadkar branded the move “ kamikaze ” and insisted it had “ backfired ” .
Mr Varadkar played an influential role in the renegotiations to scrap the controversial Northern Ireland backstop from the Withdrawal Agreement last year .
He insisted Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis ’ confirmation the Government ’ s Internal Market Bill will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ in a very specific and limited way ” would set alarm bells ringing in Dublin .
“ I do n't think there can be an free-trade agreement in circumstances where the UK is not honouring the Withdrawal Agreement , ” Mr Varadkar said .
“ This issue would not arise if we had a free-trade agreement if there was an agreement between the EU and the UK that we would have quota free tariff free trade this problem would go away so I guess that could be what they 're playing at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a good strategy on their part at all.
” Irish premier Micheal Martin added : “ Any negotiation process can only proceed on the basis of trust .
“ When one party to a negotiation decides that they can change what ’ s already agreed and incorporated into law , it really undermines trust .
“ This is a critical time in the Brexit process and the stakes are very high.
” Lord Frost has insisted progress must be made this week if Britain and the EU are to reach a deal by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a summit in Brussels .
DO N'T MISS He FINALLY gets it !
Leo Varadkar panics at Boris Johnson 's Brexit move [ REPORT ] Pound to euro exchange rate : GBP plummets to new low [ FORECAST ] Brexit LIVE : Mammoth six-hour fishing showdown TODAY [ UPDATES ]

Michel Barnier arrives in London ahead of further Brexit talks
Trade minister Franck Riester believes Prime Minister Boris Johnson is pursuing a “bluffing strategy” over his threat to walk away from the trade talks without an agreement. Despite the tensions, the Frenchman insisted a Brexit deal is still possible if both sides can reach a consensus on the so-called “level playing field” and access to the UK's fishing grounds. Paris is adamant it won’t rubber-stamp a future relationship until it receives guarantees Downing Street won’t slash state subsidies, environmental and workers’ rights regulations to make British companies more competitive against their continental rivals.
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“There’s a game of bluff going on,” Mr Riester told the FT. “We’ll try to stay calm and serene but firmly behind the line of the EU27… In any deal, in the end there is a compromise that can come into play. “But that is unattainable for the moment because the UK is not moving on the essential matter, which is the ability to ensure that trade is fair.” Britain’s chief Brexit negotiator Lord Frost and the EU’s Michel Barnier are meeting today for the eighth round of negotiations.
Emmanuel Macron won't rubber-stamp Brexit deal without access to UK coastal waters
French President Emmanuel Macron has taken a hardline stance in Brexit trade talks
Their relationship has been strained after it was confirmed Mr Johnson is prepared to break international law to ensure a smooth Brexit. Ireland’s deputy prime minister Leo Varadkar branded the move “kamikaze” and insisted it had “backfired”. Mr Varadkar played an influential role in the renegotiations to scrap the controversial Northern Ireland backstop from the Withdrawal Agreement last year. He insisted Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis’ confirmation the Government’s Internal Market Bill will breach the divorce deal with the bloc “in a very specific and limited way” would set alarm bells ringing in Dublin.
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French trade minister Franck Riester
“I don't think there can be an free-trade agreement in circumstances where the UK is not honouring the Withdrawal Agreement,” Mr Varadkar said. “This issue would not arise if we had a free-trade agreement if there was an agreement between the EU and the UK that we would have quota free tariff free trade this problem would go away so I guess that could be what they're playing at but I don't think it's a good strategy on their part at all.” Irish premier Micheal Martin added: “Any negotiation process can only proceed on the basis of trust. MUST READ: BBC's Laura Kuenssberg issues devastating Brexit warning
David Frost and Michel Barnier will hold make-or-break talks this week in London
“When one party to a negotiation decides that they can change what’s already agreed and incorporated into law, it really undermines trust. “This is a critical time in the Brexit process and the stakes are very high.” Lord Frost has insisted progress must be made this week if Britain and the EU are to reach a deal by October 15, when European leaders hold a summit in Brussels. DON'T MISS
He FINALLY gets it! Leo Varadkar panics at Boris Johnson's Brexit move [REPORT]
Pound to euro exchange rate: GBP plummets to new low [FORECAST]
Brexit LIVE: Mammoth six-hour fishing showdown TODAY [UPDATES]
Brexit: Lord Falconer says ‘nothing EU can do’ if law is broken


thedailyexpress--2020-09-09--PMQs LIVE: You should APOLOGISE NOW! Boris shames Starmer over attack on 'heroic NHS'

MPs reacted angrily after Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis said on Tuesday that legislation to change the Withdrawal Agreement would go against international law in a `` very specific and limited way '' .
Ministers have argued the measures are necessary to ensure `` damaging '' tariffs are not imposed by `` default '' on goods travelling from the rest of the UK to Northern Ireland if negotiations with the EU on a free trade agreement fail .
But a series of senior Conservatives have expressed dismay , warning the move risks undermining Britain 's standing and reputation as an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , chairman of the Commons Defence Committee , said that if the Government went through with the changes to the agreement - which secured the UK 's departure from the EU in January - it would `` lose the moral high ground '' .
While Tom Tugendhat , Tory chairman of the Commons Foreign Affairs Committee , who said Britain had traditionally been the `` chief exporter '' of the rule of law around the world .
`` We have been the single pillar of dependability in international negotiations ... which has allowed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to prosper , '' he told a British Foreign Policy Group think tank event on Tuesday .
`` It 's not just about the law .
Our entire economy is based on the perception that people have of the UK 's adherence to the rule of law . ''
Sir Keir has urged Mr Johnson not to `` reopen old wounds '' and to get a trade deal with the EU as he criticised the Government 's admission it could break international law over Brexit as `` wrong '' .
The Labour leader @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his attention to the coronavirus pandemic by ensuring negotiations with Brussels are successful .
FOLLOW EXPRESS.CO.UK BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES FROM THE DEBATE BELOW BREXIT BULLETIN : Sign up for our special edition newsletter with exclusive insight from this week 's crunch talks The Speaker said : `` I accept the decisions have been made in the fast moving situation .
`` It 's really not good enoguh for the Government to make decisions of this kind in the way in which show insufficient regard for the importance of major policy announcements being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of this house forever possible . ''
He said he has alreaduy sent a letter to the Secretary of state over .
He said : `` I think the total disrgeard for this chaber is not acceptable , I know the PM is an MP as well and he will ensure that statements should be made here first especially as this particulary Secretary State requests statements and then to ignore the major fact that he wanted to put to the country not to put before this house it is not acceptable .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ members . ''
12.36pm update : Extinction Rebellion protesters tackled at gates of Parliament as MPs attend PMQs Extinction Rebellion protesters have reportedly been arrested after the entrance of parliament was blocked just before Prime Minister 's Questions .
5 News political editor Andy Bell posted a picture on Twitter showing protesters held down by police near Black Rod ’ s entrance .
12.21pm update Ian Blackford scolded by Speaker of the House Sir Lindsay Hoyle called out Mr Blackrord after he called Mr Johnson a `` charlatan '' and accused him of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said Mr Blackford `` should withdrew that comment about the PM being a liar '' .
Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle said : `` Prime Minister I 'm sure that the leader of the SNP would like to withdraw that last comment of being a liar , no honourable member would do that , would you please withdraw it . ''
Mr Blackford said : `` It 's on the face of the Bill that the Government of the UK is going to trample over devolution , that is not a lie . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ you 're a great member of this House , you do the right things by this House and I 've accepted that you 've withdrawn it . ''
The SNP Westminster leader told the Commons : `` It is nothing short of an attack on Scottish parliament and an affront to the people of Scotland .
`` It breaks international law but it also breaks domestic law .
`` The Prime Minister and his friends are creating a rogue state where the rule of law does not apply .
Why does he think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Speaking about the controversial Internal Market bill , Boris said of Keir : `` He is totally silent on this bill that obsesses his backbenchers !
Once again he stood on his tongue because he does n't want to offend the huge number of his backbenchers .
This government vets on and makes tough dcisions on behalf of the British people . ''
`` We make the tough calls , all he does is sit on the sidelines and carp . ''
Keir told the Commons : `` I just want it fixed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an argument .
Accept there 's a problem and we 'll all muck in .
`` Is it a capacity problem or not ?
People are trying to do the right thing : we want to go to work , we want to go back to schools , we support that .
`` But there 's a glaring [ test-and-trace ] problem .
When did he first hear about this problem where people are going hundreds of miles and not getting a test ? ''
Boris replied : We have to supply more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know if he 's been listening but I 've been trying to give the House the figures !
Thanks to the heroic efforts of the NHS workers that tests have gone up ... and thanks to them , people on average have to travel 10 miles .
`` It 's hard work , it 's a big job and they 're doing a fantastic job . ''
But Keir hit back saying : `` Why ca n't we just hear from the PM an honest answer ?
If he stood at the dispatch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gone wrong ...
I 've looked into it and here 's my plan , people might be reassured .
But far from the world-beating system we were promised , the Government ca n't even get the basics right . ''
12.09pm update : Boris urges Keir to 'take back ' criticism of NHS He said : `` I note that he wo n't take back his criticism and his attack of NHS test-and-trace and I regret that .
`` They are doing a heroic job , testing hundreds of thousands of people .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in my view doing an absoutely heroic job in spite of the difficulties they face .
`` This is an organisation that is working heroically to contain the spread of the disease .
And it requires the public to trust it and do their part . ''
Keir Starmer said he will support the new coronavirus measures but he said the Government line is `` changing all the time '' .
The Labour leader said : `` Nobody is attacking here .
The Prime Minister needs to know how anxious people are .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` This is a very serious issue .
The Government line on this seems to be changing all the time .
`` This morning the Health Secretary changed tack and appeared to blame the public .
`` Who 's right - the director of test-and-tract , who say it is a laboratory problem , or the Health Secretary , who says it 's the public 's fault . ''
Boris Johnson said : `` I would say to those who attack NHS test-and-trace and deprecate the efforts of those doing their level best @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because of the success of test-and-trace that capacity has gone up and we know , thanks to NHS test-and-trace , in granular detail about what is happening .
`` We know the groups that are suffering , the extent of the infection rate ... we also know that , alas , some people have not been following the guidance and therefore we are seeing a rise in infections .
`` That is why we are taking decisive steps to intensify our social distancing measures in order that we can keep our economy going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this virus under control . ''
The PM said the soverignty of the Rock is `` inviolable '' .
12.01pm update : Boris has taken to the dispatch box Boris has been asked how should he expect members of the piblic to obey the law , if the Government does n't : `` If the Prime Minister thinks it is acceptable for this government to break the law , how can the Prime Minister accept the public at home not to do so ? ''
He replied : `` We expect everybody in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Beth Rigby tweeted : `` PMQs .
Don ’ t expect Starmer to get into the WAB with PM .
Doesn ’ t want to go down Brexit rabbit hole .
Instead Lab leader likely to focus on coronavirus and the testing regime being ( his words from y ’ day ‘ on the verge of collapse ) .
Everything again will be framed around competence . ''
The Prime Minister has confirmed he will deliver a live news conference at 4pm today over coronavirus restrictions

PMQs: Boris Johnson slams Keir Stamer on NHS criticism
The Prime Minister hit out at Sir Keir over his criticism over the NHS test-and-trace system during today’s debate at noon over his latest COVID-19 restrictions to limit social gatherings to six people as cases of the killer virus continue to rocket. Also on the agenda was Brexit, after Mr Johnson was hit with criticism over controversial plans to override key elements of his Brexit deal with Brussels, in breach of international law.
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MPs reacted angrily after Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis said on Tuesday that legislation to change the Withdrawal Agreement would go against international law in a "very specific and limited way". Ministers have argued the measures are necessary to ensure "damaging" tariffs are not imposed by "default" on goods travelling from the rest of the UK to Northern Ireland if negotiations with the EU on a free trade agreement fail. But a series of senior Conservatives have expressed dismay, warning the move risks undermining Britain's standing and reputation as an upholder of international law. Tobias Ellwood, chairman of the Commons Defence Committee, said that if the Government went through with the changes to the agreement - which secured the UK's departure from the EU in January - it would "lose the moral high ground".
Boris Johnson and Keir Starmer will showdown for this afternoon's PMQs
While Tom Tugendhat, Tory chairman of the Commons Foreign Affairs Committee, who said Britain had traditionally been the "chief exporter" of the rule of law around the world. "We have been the single pillar of dependability in international negotiations... which has allowed others to prosper and indeed allowed us to prosper," he told a British Foreign Policy Group think tank event on Tuesday. "It's not just about the law. Our entire economy is based on the perception that people have of the UK's adherence to the rule of law." Sir Keir has urged Mr Johnson not to "reopen old wounds" and to get a trade deal with the EU as he criticised the Government's admission it could break international law over Brexit as "wrong". The Labour leader called on the Prime Minister to return his attention to the coronavirus pandemic by ensuring negotiations with Brussels are successful. FOLLOW EXPRESS.CO.UK BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES FROM THE DEBATE BELOW BREXIT BULLETIN: Sign up for our special edition newsletter with exclusive insight from this week's crunch talks
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12.37pm update: PM scolded by Speaker The Speaker said: "I accept the decisions have been made in the fast moving situation. "It's really not good enoguh for the Government to make decisions of this kind in the way in which show insufficient regard for the importance of major policy announcements being made first to this house to members of this house forever possible." He said he has alreaduy sent a letter to the Secretary of state over. He said: "I think the total disrgeard for this chaber is not acceptable, I know the PM is an MP as well and he will ensure that statements should be made here first especially as this particulary Secretary State requests statements and then to ignore the major fact that he wanted to put to the country not to put before this house it is not acceptable. "I hope he will apologise to the members." 12.36pm update: Extinction Rebellion protesters tackled at gates of Parliament as MPs attend PMQs Extinction Rebellion protesters have reportedly been arrested after the entrance of parliament was blocked just before Prime Minister's Questions. 5 News political editor Andy Bell posted a picture on Twitter showing protesters held down by police near Black Rod’s entrance. 12.21pm update Ian Blackford scolded by Speaker of the House Sir Lindsay Hoyle called out Mr Blackrord after he called Mr Johnson a "charlatan" and accused him of being a "liar". He said Mr Blackford "should withdrew that comment about the PM being a liar". Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle said: "Prime Minister I'm sure that the leader of the SNP would like to withdraw that last comment of being a liar, no honourable member would do that, would you please withdraw it." Mr Blackford said: "It's on the face of the Bill that the Government of the UK is going to trample over devolution, that is not a lie." Sir Lindsay replied: "Mr Blackford you're a great member of this House, you do the right things by this House and I've accepted that you've withdrawn it." 12.19pm update: Ian Blackford accuses Boris of 'creating rogue state' The SNP Westminster leader told the Commons: "It is nothing short of an attack on Scottish parliament and an affront to the people of Scotland. "It breaks international law but it also breaks domestic law. "The Prime Minister and his friends are creating a rogue state where the rule of law does not apply. Why does he think he is above the law?" 12.16pm update: Boris launches savage attack on Labour leader over Brexit Speaking about the controversial Internal Market bill, Boris said of Keir: "He is totally silent on this bill that obsesses his backbenchers! Once again he stood on his tongue because he doesn't want to offend the huge number of his backbenchers. This government vets on and makes tough dcisions on behalf of the British people." "We make the tough calls, all he does is sit on the sidelines and carp."
Boris Johnson urged Keir Starmer to apologise
12.13pm update: Boris and Keir clash on coronavirus Keir told the Commons: "I just want it fixed! We don't need to have an argument. Accept there's a problem and we'll all muck in. "Is it a capacity problem or not? People are trying to do the right thing: we want to go to work, we want to go back to schools, we support that. "But there's a glaring [test-and-trace] problem. When did he first hear about this problem where people are going hundreds of miles and not getting a test?" Boris replied: We have to supply more and more tests. I don't know if he's been listening but I've been trying to give the House the figures! Thanks to the heroic efforts of the NHS workers that tests have gone up ... and thanks to them, people on average have to travel 10 miles. "It's hard work, it's a big job and they're doing a fantastic job." But Keir hit back saying: "Why can't we just hear from the PM an honest answer? If he stood at the dispatch box and said I know something's gone wrong ... I've looked into it and here's my plan, people might be reassured. But far from the world-beating system we were promised, the Government can't even get the basics right." 12.09pm update: Boris urges Keir to 'take back' criticism of NHS He said: "I note that he won't take back his criticism and his attack of NHS test-and-trace and I regret that.
"They are doing a heroic job, testing hundreds of thousands of people." 12.07pm update: PM praises 'heroic NHS' He said: "They are in my view doing an absoutely heroic job in spite of the difficulties they face.
"This is an organisation that is working heroically to contain the spread of the disease. And it requires the public to trust it and do their part."
Ian Blackford has been scolded by the Speaker of the House


thedailyexpress--2020-09-09--He FINALLY gets it! Leo Varadkar panics as Boris Johnson's Brexit gamble hits home

Fine Gael leader Mr Varadkar - who is now deputy to current Taoiseach Micheal Martin - suggested the difficulties , which arise as a result of the UK Government 's plans to introduce legislation today which is likely to override some aspects of the Northern Ireland protocol , were `` not insurmountable '' .
They are also indicative the Government 's realisation in respect of the precarious situation Ireland finds itself in .
Mr Varadkar also suggested Mr Johnson 's move could be `` brinkmanship '' aimed at forcing the EU 's hand on sticking points including fishing rights and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK 's `` kamikaze '' strategy had backfired .
Mr Varadkar made reference to Northern Ireland secretary Brandon Lewis 's admission that legislation overriding parts of the Withdrawal Agreement would break international law .
He said : `` These were really extraordinary comments , and certainly set off alarm bells in Dublin . ''
Nevertheless , Mr Varadkar told RTE radio : `` I think they want a deal . ''
He suggested the remaining issues `` would not seem insurmountable '' .
He said : `` Is this political gamesmanship or is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's going to emerge this week , which is contrary to the withdrawal agreement .
We 'll have to wait and see . ''
Ray Bassett , Ireland 's former ambassador to Canada , Jamaica and the Bahamas , told Express.co.uk on Sunday the Irish Government was watching events across the Irish Sea anxiously .
Speaking after UK chief negotiator David Frost warned Britain was not afraid to walk away from the negotiating table , Mr Bassett said : `` There must be extreme nervousness in Government circles in Dublin .
`` They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and have lost the bet .
`` I think nobody can be in any doubt but that the demands Barnier is making on fisheries and on the EU having control of the EU state aid in Britain are undeliverable .
`` The prospects do not look good for Ireland in 2021 . ''
Mr Bassett , who published his new book , Ireland and the EU Post Brexit recently , fears Ireland will be increasingly marginalised in the EU after the end of the year and is an advocated of Irexit .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need a long hard look at our EU membership and pose the question , is it worth the price ? ''

Theresa May and Leo Varadkar discuss Brexit ‘solution’ in 2017
Fine Gael leader Mr Varadkar - who is now deputy to current Taoiseach Micheal Martin - suggested the difficulties, which arise as a result of the UK Government's plans to introduce legislation today which is likely to override some aspects of the Northern Ireland protocol, were "not insurmountable". They are also indicative the Government's realisation in respect of the precarious situation Ireland finds itself in.
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Mr Varadkar also suggested Mr Johnson's move could be "brinkmanship" aimed at forcing the EU's hand on sticking points including fishing rights and state aid. He also claimed the UK's "kamikaze" strategy had backfired. Mr Varadkar made reference to Northern Ireland secretary Brandon Lewis's admission that legislation overriding parts of the Withdrawal Agreement would break international law.
Leo Varadkar has admitted Boris Johnson's move triggered alarm bells in Dublin
Ireland's Taoiseach Micheal Martin
These were really extraordinary comments, and certainly set off alarm bells in Dublin Leo Varadkar
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He said: "These were really extraordinary comments, and certainly set off alarm bells in Dublin." Nevertheless, Mr Varadkar told RTE radio: "I think they want a deal." He suggested the remaining issues "would not seem insurmountable". JUST IN: Brexit LIVE - Mammoth six-hour fishing showdown TODAY
Brandon Lewis, Northern Ireland Secretary
Boris Johnson bumps elbows with Micheal Martin during his recent trip to Belfast
Simon Coveney urged colleagues not to overreact this week
He said: "Is this political gamesmanship or is there really a piece of legislation that's going to emerge this week, which is contrary to the withdrawal agreement. We'll have to wait and see." Ray Bassett, Ireland's former ambassador to Canada, Jamaica and the Bahamas, told Express.co.uk on Sunday the Irish Government was watching events across the Irish Sea anxiously. Speaking after UK chief negotiator David Frost warned Britain was not afraid to walk away from the negotiating table, Mr Bassett said: "There must be extreme nervousness in Government circles in Dublin. "They bet heavily on the Remainers in London and have lost the bet.
The impact of a hard Brexit on Ireland
"I think nobody can be in any doubt but that the demands Barnier is making on fisheries and on the EU having control of the EU state aid in Britain are undeliverable. "The prospects do not look good for Ireland in 2021." Mr Bassett, who published his new book, Ireland and the EU Post Brexit recently, fears Ireland will be increasingly marginalised in the EU after the end of the year and is an advocated of Irexit. In his book he writes: "We need a long hard look at our EU membership and pose the question, is it worth the price?"
David Frost, the UK's chief negotiator


thedailyexpress--2020-09-09--Barnier's 'threat' to UK exposed as EU would stop trade on borders in no deal backlash

The claim is alleged to sparked Boris Johnson 's bid to make legal changes to the withdrawal agreement .
But French MEP Nathalie Loiseau dismissed the claim Michel Barnier would use food trade as negotiating leverage .
BBC Radio 4 presenter Nick Robinson asked her : `` There are reports the Government 's bid to make legal changes to the Brexit withdrawal agreement was sparked by what it calls a veiled threat by Michel Barnier to disrupt food exports from Great Britain to Northern Ireland .
BREXIT BULLETIN : Sign up for our special edition newsletter with exclusive insight from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sun describes it as an incendiary power play that infuriated the UK side prompting ministers to pursue a legal safety net .
`` Do you accept that there could be those sorts of problems ? ''
Speaking on the Radio 4 's Today programme , Ms Loiseau said : `` It 's one more example of disinformation and fake news relating to Brexit .
`` I do regret that since 2016 you have all this fake news going around creating confusion . ''
READ MORE : Post-Brexit border : What will the border @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say she was `` flabbergasted '' by the Government 's admission it could break international law over Mr Johnson 's Brexit deal .
Ms Loiseau said : `` We 're negotiating the future relationship and we hear that the British Government seems not to believe anymore in a rules-based order .
`` This is of course a huge concern .
`` And it creates questions and scepticism about how much you can trust your partner in negotiation for the future .
`` You do n't break international commitments in specific and limited manners @ @ @ @ @ @ @ abide by them .
`` Either you are legal or you are illegal . ''
A senior Tory MP has warned Mr Johnson not to breach international law over his Brexit deal , saying it would `` go against everything we believe in '' .
Chairman of the Commons defence committee Tobias Ellwood told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme : `` As negotiations go down to the wire let 's not lose sight of who we are and what we stand for .
Pound to euro exchange rate : GBP plummets to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Mammoth six-hour fishing showdown TODAY [ LIVE ] Brexit shock : EU to use coronavirus crisis to BAN Brits abroad [ INSIGHT ] '' This is about the rule of law and our resolve and commitment to uphold it .
`` To unilaterally ignore any treaty in its obligations which we 've signed and submitted to the United Nations would actually go against everything we believe in . ''
But Matt Hancock said breaking international law by overriding the Withdrawal Agreement is necessary to preserve peace in Northern Ireland if a trade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Health Secretary told BBC Radio 4 's Today programme : `` The decision we 've made is to put the peace process first , first and foremost as our absolute top international obligation .
`` We are also absolutely clear about if we do n't manage to achieve that ( a deal ) , and I really hope that the Europeans will make the progress necessary in order to deliver it - it 's straightforward and available in my view - if not we absolutely have to choose and to govern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Northern Ireland . ''

Brexit bill changes sparked by ‘threat’ from Barnier says expert
The claim is alleged to sparked Boris Johnson's bid to make legal changes to the withdrawal agreement. But French MEP Nathalie Loiseau dismissed the claim Michel Barnier would use food trade as negotiating leverage. BBC Radio 4 presenter Nick Robinson asked her: "There are reports the Government's bid to make legal changes to the Brexit withdrawal agreement was sparked by what it calls a veiled threat by Michel Barnier to disrupt food exports from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. BREXIT BULLETIN: Sign up for our special edition newsletter with exclusive insight from this week's crunch talks
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"The Sun describes it as an incendiary power play that infuriated the UK side prompting ministers to pursue a legal safety net. "Do you accept that there could be those sorts of problems?" Speaking on the Radio 4's Today programme, Ms Loiseau said: "It's one more example of disinformation and fake news relating to Brexit. "I do regret that since 2016 you have all this fake news going around creating confusion." READ MORE: Post-Brexit border: What will the border look like?
A French MEP has dismissed claims Brussels threatened to disrupt exports
The move is said to have sparked Boris Johnson's Brexit change plans
She went on to say she was "flabbergasted" by the Government's admission it could break international law over Mr Johnson's Brexit deal. Ms Loiseau said: "We're negotiating the future relationship and we hear that the British Government seems not to believe anymore in a rules-based order. "This is of course a huge concern. "And it creates questions and scepticism about how much you can trust your partner in negotiation for the future.
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Mr Barnier is claimed to use it as negotiating leverage
Brexit: No deal could ‘spell disaster’ for Tories says expert
"You don't break international commitments in specific and limited manners. Either you break them or you abide by them. "Either you are legal or you are illegal." A senior Tory MP has warned Mr Johnson not to breach international law over his Brexit deal, saying it would "go against everything we believe in". Chairman of the Commons defence committee Tobias Ellwood told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "As negotiations go down to the wire let's not lose sight of who we are and what we stand for. DON'T MISS Pound to euro exchange rate: GBP plummets to new low [DATA]
Brexit LIVE: Mammoth six-hour fishing showdown TODAY [LIVE]
Brexit shock: EU to use coronavirus crisis to BAN Brits abroad [INSIGHT]
Eu citizens moving to the UK


thedailyexpress--2020-09-10--Brexit judgement day: Gove in emergency talks with EU as huge row erupts

The news comes after it emerged the UK has proposed proposed a legislation to override parts of the Withdraal Agreement .
A spokesman for the commission said : “ The EU seeks clarifications from the UK on the full and timely implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement.
” European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said the move to amend the Withdrawal Agreement signed last year would “ break international law and undermine trust ” between the two sides .
Within minutes of the Bill ’ s publication , Ms Von der Leyen said : “ Very concerned about announcements from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ breach the Withdrawal Agreement .
It was then when Mr Sefcovic called for an urgent showdown with Mr Gove .
Mr Sefcovic and Mr Gove had a phone conversation where tensions escalated .
He said : “ I expressed our strong concerns and sought assurances that the UK will fully and timely comply with the Withdrawal Agreement , including the Protocol on Northern Ireland.
” BREXIT BULLETIN : Sign up for our special edition newsletter with exclusive insight from this week 's crunch talks '' I made it very clear to him that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ renegotiation .
“ The Joint Committee is there for assuring proper and timely implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement , not renegotiating it .
I have to reiterate this again.
” He added Downing Street was “ fully aware what the lack of respect for the signed ratified treaties might mean for the future ” .
“ This is a matter of principle .
Of course it has direct implications on the talks about our future .
”

Brexit: Expert urges Boris to 'regain territorial identity'
The emergency trip was scheduled after it emerged the UK has proposed legislation to override parts of the Withdrawal Agreement. A spokesman for the commission said: “The EU seeks clarifications from the UK on the full and timely implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement.”
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European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said the move to amend the Withdrawal Agreement signed last year would “break international law and undermine trust” between the two sides.
Within minutes of the Bill’s publication, Ms Von der Leyen said: “Very concerned about announcements from the British Government on its intentions to breach the Withdrawal Agreement.
“This would break international law and undermines trust.
“Pacta sunt servanda equals the foundation of prosperous future relations.”
Brexit judgement day: Gove in emergency talks with EU as huge row erupts
It was then when Mr Sefcovic called for an urgent showdown with Mr Gove. Mr Sefcovic and Mr Gove had a phone conversation where tensions escalated. He said: “I expressed our strong concerns and sought assurances that the UK will fully and timely comply with the Withdrawal Agreement, including the Protocol on Northern Ireland.” BREXIT BULLETIN: Sign up for our special edition newsletter with exclusive insight from this week's crunch talks
Ursula von der Leyen said the move to ammed the Withdrawal Agreement would 'break international law'
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"I made it very clear to him that the Withdrawal Agreement is not open for renegotiation. “The Joint Committee is there for assuring proper and timely implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement, not renegotiating it. I have to reiterate this again.” He added Downing Street was “fully aware what the lack of respect for the signed ratified treaties might mean for the future”.
“This is a matter of principle. Of course it has direct implications on the talks about our future.”
Maros Sefcovic called for an urgent showdown with Michael Gove