thedailyexpress--2020-07-09--Brexit LIVE: We DO need a deal... just not with EU! UK fisheries issues warning to Boris

The group said Brexit was an opportunity for Britain to “ assert its independence and use the size of its domestic market for fish to strike better fisheries access deals ” with places like Norway , Greenland , the Faroe Islands and Iceland .
They argued the UK has “ strong cards to play ” .
British Fisheries wrote : “ The future of the UK ’ s distant waters fleet is in jeopardy if we don ’ t take great care in ongoing negotiations with our Nordic non-EU coastal neighbours .
The opportunity is there for our negotiating teams @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now take it .
`` The UK runs a trade deficit with the Nordic coastal fishing nations amounting to almost a billion pounds annually .
It ’ s a very one-sided arrangement .
“ As a newly-independent coastal state , the UK has the opportunity to assert its independence and use the size of its domestic market for fish to strike better fisheries access deals with Norway , Greenland and the Faeroes – and with Iceland , where currently we can ’ t fish at all .
“ Most of the fish we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waters , and not from the UK .
We like cod , haddock , salmon and prawns – species that are most abundant in the northern waters between Norway and Greenland , and far less so in our own Exclusive Economic Zone ( EEZ ) .
“ What we catch in our own waters is mostly exported to the EU .
So the fish-based Nordic economies are reliant on the UK for exports of their fish ( salmon , cod , haddock and prawns ) .
” Brexit will give us the ability @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fish to maintain or improve access to these Nordic waters .
“ Make no mistake , our Nordic coastal partners recognise that the UK has strong cards to play .
They ’ re just surprised that we have n't played them yet.
” Brexit trade talks broke up today with `` significant '' differences still remaining between Britain and the European Union , a spokesman for the bloc warned .
The two sides failed to make a major breakthrough after the latest round of negotiations took place in London .
Brussels claimed it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suggested that Boris Johnson ’ s top trade negotiator had failed to make the necessary concessions .
A European Commission spokesman said : “ The EU is engaging constructively and in good faith , as Michel Barnier pointed out earlier this week .
We are working hard to overcome the significant divergences that remain between us.
” 12.19pm update : Boris Johnson questioned by angry Brexiteer about plot to keep UK in EU tariff regime Brexiteer Steve Baker has warned against any possibility of the UK being trapped in the EU 's tariff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - prompting an extraordinary intervention from Boris Johnson himself to offer reassurance .
And the Tory MP for Wycombe later told Express.co.uk he had no concerns about the Prime Minister 's commitment - while acknowledging problems existed `` elsewhere in the machinery '' .
Mr Baker pressed Mr Johnson in Parliament yesterday , and after apparently being dissatisfied with his answer , subsequently voiced his concerns on the European Research Group 's WhatsApp group , ITV 's political editor Robert Peston revealed .
Speaking in the Commons , Mr Baker raised concerns about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the same day a leaked letter written by International Trade Secretary Liz Truss to Michael Gove and Rishi Sunak the UK 's ports were not yet ready for an independent trade regime .
10.52am update : Europeans order UK tourists to 'stay away ' from their holiday hotspots – shock poll UK holidaymakers have been told to `` stay away '' from European holiday destinations as the pandemic-stricken tourism industry restarts after the coronavirus crisis , according to new study .
The YouGov poll found people in Spain , France , Italy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than visitors from any other European country .
Only tourists from China and the United States were perceived as less desirable than British history ’ s because of the high coronavirus infect rate .
Spaniards were the hardest on Britons , with 61 percent of respondents calling for a total ban on them entering the country .
Sterling rose 0.3 percent against the dollar as investors showed a delayed response to finance minister Rishi Sunak 's announcement of his plans to revive the economy , but Brexit risks continued to weigh on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Thursday , up 0.3 percent against a broadly weaker dollar to $ 1.2644 and up 0.1 percent to 89.68 pence versus the single currency .
But Stephen Gallo , European head of the FX strategy at BMO Financial Group , warned Brexit risks limited the sterling rise , saying : `` There has been a little bit of a delayed response , I think , to the fiscal story here in the UK .
`` If it were n't for the Brexit factor , which is holding down the pound , I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now because the UK has a much more dynamic fiscal story than the eurozone as a whole . ''
9am update : Brexit poll : are you worried about the break-up of the UK ?
VOTE Two senior pollsters are now suggesting Scottish independence is becoming increasingly likely - so with the break-up of the UK seeming more likely now than it did a year ago , today Express.co.uk readers are being asked : 'Are you worried ? '
VOTE HERE 8.48am update : How hidden phrase in Irish border solution revealed real @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are taking place at breakneck speed this month , but an Irish commentator has pointed out that there 's one key problem which has not been focused on yet .
Europe editor Tony Connelly wrote in Irish publication RTE that Ireland ’ s geography “ could be the next big problem ” in the Brexit negotiations earlier this month .
He explained : “ Brexit freight will , from January 1 , be third country freight , meaning it will be subject to customs and regulatory controls at European ports .
“ Neither @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dover , are geared towards differentiating British and Irish freight.
” 8.15am update : Ex-MP pinpoints why Brexit chief will sacrifice EU in trade talks Michel Barnier could sacrifice the desires of the EU in the UK Brexit trade deal talks to further his own career , according to a former Conservative MP .
Brexit trade deal talks between the UK and EU have appeared to come to a halt as little has been agreed by the two parties .
However , Brexiteer and former Tory MP Baron Peter Lilley has argued this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Michel Barnier .
While speaking to Brexit Watch on their YouTube channel , Mr Lilley claimed a good Canada-style deal was more likely for the UK now .
He claimed Michel Barnier 's political aspirations will drive him to make a success of the Brexit trade talks by any means .
Baron Lilley argued Mr Barnier will take steps to avoid a no deal scenario , and eventually agree to the demands of the UK .
The International Trade Secretary has warned Boris Johnson 's Brexit border plans may be vulnerable to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ letter in which she raised concerns over smuggling .
Liz Truss wrote to Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove expressing her `` key areas of concerns '' on Wednesday , according to the Business Insider website .
In the email she reportedly warned the UK would `` be vulnerable to WTO challenge '' over its border policy by temporarily giving the EU preferential treatment in the absence of a trade deal .

Brexit fishing: Expert reveals 'key issues' in EU trade deal
As the UK Government scrambles to seal a deal with the EU over fishing after Brexit, UK Fisheries has warned Boris Johnson not to lose sight of the nation’s Nordic non-EU neighbours. They said the “opportunity is there” for Britain to “guarantee its future”. THIS BLOG IS NOW FINISHED. CLICK HERE FOR TODAY'S
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The group said Brexit was an opportunity for Britain to “assert its independence and use the size of its domestic market for fish to strike better fisheries access deals” with places like Norway, Greenland, the Faroe Islands and Iceland. They argued the UK has “strong cards to play”. British Fisheries wrote: “The future of the UK’s distant waters fleet is in jeopardy if we don’t take great care in ongoing negotiations with our Nordic non-EU coastal neighbours. The opportunity is there for our negotiating teams to guarantee its future. We must now take it. "The UK runs a trade deficit with the Nordic coastal fishing nations amounting to almost a billion pounds annually. It’s a very one-sided arrangement. “As a newly-independent coastal state, the UK has the opportunity to assert its independence and use the size of its domestic market for fish to strike better fisheries access deals with Norway, Greenland and the Faeroes – and with Iceland, where currently we can’t fish at all.
The future of the UK distance water is fishing fleet is at risk
Brexit timeline revealed
“Most of the fish we eat in the UK comes from distant waters, and not from the UK. We like cod, haddock, salmon and prawns – species that are most abundant in the northern waters between Norway and Greenland, and far less so in our own Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). “What we catch in our own waters is mostly exported to the EU. So the fish-based Nordic economies are reliant on the UK for exports of their fish (salmon, cod, haddock and prawns). ”Brexit will give us the ability to leverage our billion-pound domestic market for fish to maintain or improve access to these Nordic waters. “Make no mistake, our Nordic coastal partners recognise that the UK has strong cards to play. They’re just surprised that we haven't played them yet.” FOLLOW EXPRESS.CO.UK BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES READ MORE: EU fisheries panic: ‘Violent confrontations at sea' warning exposed
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5:30am update: British retailers warn no-deal will raise cost of staple goods The British Retail Consortium has said that people should be aware that no deal with the EU will mean a price hike in “ordinary household goods that every consumer has to buy and replenish”. According to the BRC’s calculations, Republic of Ireland beef would surge in cost by 48 percent, whereas Irish cheddar could rise by an eye-watering 57 percent. Aodhán Connolly, the director of the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium, said in a Brexit press briefing: “It’s not foie gras that we’re talking about, it’s mince, it’s cheese, it’s oranges, you know. “It doesn’t matter whether it’s Great Britain, or it’s Northern Ireland, the people who will suffer most because of these cost rises will be those people who are most economically vulnerable.” 2:00am update: EU would welcome Scotland, snub UK, according to expert Kirsty Hughes, former director of Scottish Centre on Europe Relations, claims the EU would have “complete openness” to Scotland rejoining the bloc. This would only apply if they voted for independence, in a major snub to the UK. Mrs Hughes is quoted by The New European as saying: “On the Scottish side I think there is complete openness if Scotland was to vote Yes in a constitutionally and legally valid referendum. “There is complete openness to welcoming another small, northern European country into the European Union. “Frankly any big country applying to join the EU, whether it is Turkey or Ukraine or the UK, is always much more problematic usually than a smaller country.” 12:30am update: UK Government to spend £25 million in Brexit boost for Northern Ireland trade Post-Brexit trade between the UK and Northern Ireland has been allocated £25 million to assist with any complications. After the UK leaves the EU on January 1, Northern Ireland will stay in the blocs single market for goods. HMRC has splashed the case to create "an end-to-end service to support businesses with new administrative processes". 10.30pm update: Irish border talks? Taoiseach Micheal Martin has described Sinn Fein's calls for a border poll on a united Ireland as divisive and said he would favour a different approach. Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald said a referendum on Irish unity is "imperative" to growing the Irish economy. Speaking in the Dail in Dublin, she said: "A united Ireland is the best idea for the future of our country. "It is essential to the prosperity of all our people because growing our economy requires an all-Ireland approach. "Protecting our health service requires an all-Ireland approach." However, the Irish PM said an all-island unit has been set up in the Department of the Taoiseach but said Sinn Fein's insistence on a border poll is divisive. He added: "I don't believe precipitating or organising a referendum like that is the way to go. "That was the Sinn Fein position since Brexit happened and you have come back a bit from it."
The Irish border has been a large discussion point in Brexit talks.
9.15pm update: Government walks away from COVID-19 vaccine scheme The Government declined an opportunity to join an EU coronavirus vaccine scheme after ministers expressed concerns over “costly delays", reports claim. The Telegraph is reporting that Business Secretary Alok Sharma walked away from the plan after failing to secure “sufficient assurance” Britain would receive the number of vaccines it needs on time. It is understood that Britain has been holding talks with the EU for weeks regarding the scheme which involves using the bloc’s collective bargaining power to agree deals with international drugs companies. 8pm update: Brexit limits Sterling performance at markets Gains for the British currency were limited by looming Brexit risks, it has emerged today. Sterling rose 0.3 percent on Thursday to 89.47 pence against the euro, touching its highest level since June 17. Versus the dollar, the pound jumped 0.5 percent, touching $1.2669 in earlier trading, before returning to flat trading at $1.2612 at 3pm today. Stephen Gallo, European head of the FX strategy at BMO Financial Group, said: "There has been a little bit of a delayed response, I think, to the fiscal story here in the UK." Gallo said Sunak's fiscal plan is no game-changer and that he expects sterling to remain under pressure over the summer if Britain and the European Union fail to make progress in agreeing their future trading relationship. He added: "If it weren't for the Brexit factor, which is holding down the pound, I think the pound would be significantly higher now because the UK has a much more dynamic fiscal story than the eurozone as a whole."
Brexit limited the performance of the Sterling.
6.45pm update: Scotland scraps free uni education for EU students after Brexit Free university education for EU students studying in Scotland will be scrapped after Brexit. Holyrood's higher education minister Richard Lochhead said the Government will end free education for EU citizens starting their studies next year, with the money saved going towards encouraging more Scottish students into university. Students from EU countries - as remains the case for those from within Scotland - have been eligible for free tuition since fees were scrapped. But the Scottish Government will no longer be obliged to cover the cost for students from EU nations after Brexit and it has decided to charge them after that point. 5.45pm update: Barnier warning to EU businesses following Brexit transition period The EU Commission has produced a document which encourages European businesses to revive their no-deal Brexit planning preparations as it warned of "inevitable changes" no matter the outcome of trade talks with the UK. The communication, Getting Ready for Changes, told member states that the choices made by Boris Johnson's administration in pushing to deviate from EU rules and opting not to extend the transition period beyond December meant "inevitable disruptions will occur" next year that would "risk compounding the pressure that businesses are already under due to the Covid-19 outbreak". Highlighting that it was "essential that all stakeholders" start preparing for "far-reaching changes", the communication advised for businesses to "consider revisiting their existing preparedness plans". The document continued: "Although these were drawn up for the risk of the UK's withdrawal from the union without a withdrawal agreement - a scenario which did not materialise - part of that work will still be very relevant for the changes at the end of the transition period."
Michel Barnier arriving for Brexit talks this week.
4.30pm update: Barnier warns of ‘inevitable’ changes whether there’s a UK deal or not The European Union's chief negotiator Michel Barnier has said there will be "inevitable changes" no matter the outcome between Brussels and the UK on a post-Brexit trade deal. He tweeted: "This week's discussions confirm that significant divergences remain between the European Union and the United Kingdom. "We will continue working with patience, respect and determination. "Regardless of the outcome, there will be inevitable changes on January 1 2021." 3.30pm update: Significant divergences still between Brussels and UK on trade deal, EU says "Significant divergences" remain between Brussels and the UK on a post-Brexit trade deal following "informal" talks in London, the European Commission has said. Michel Barnier crossed the Channel this week for what he deemed a "useful discussion" with Boris Johnson's Europe adviser, David Frost, as the pair attempted to inject some movement into UK-EU trade talks. But Brussels said there were still issues blocking a deal despite the EU's chief negotiator's trip. European Commission spokesman Daniel Farrie said at a briefing today: "A number of meetings took place in London this week, as set out in the addendum of the terms of reference. "The EU is acting constructively and in good faith, as (EU chief negotiator) Michel Barnier pointed out earlier this week. "We are working hard to overcome the significant divergences that remain between us. "Meetings will continue in Brussels next week and the next round of negotiations will take place in the week of July 20 in London."
Brexit talks ended early today.
2.18pm update: Plans to turn a ex-Battle of Britain airfield into "global freight hub" approved Plans to turn a former Battle of Britain airfield into a new "global freight hub" have been approved by the Government. Development consent has been given to reopen and redevelop Manston Airport in Kent following a lengthy planning process. He said: "I am delighted that the Government has given the go-ahead to the redevelopment and reopening of Manston Airport. "This national asset has been closed for far too long but it can now play a critical role in delivering jobs and investment to Thanet, and the wider Kent and UK economy. "Manston has been an airport for more than a hundred years and this decision unlocks many millions of pounds of investment. "Post-Brexit Britain is going to need additional air freight capacity and Manston can offer this swiftly." 1.50pm: Brexit talks to continue into next week An EU Commission spokesman said:"Meetings will continue in Brussels next week and the next round of negotiations will take place in week of July 20 in London." When pushed on whether there were positives to take from the London meetings, Mr Farrie added: "We are working towards an agreement."
Brexit talks have ended without agreement
The future of the UK distance water fishing fleet is at risk, campaigners have said
12.42am update: Brexit talks end without agreement Brexit trade talks broke up today with "significant" differences still remaining between Britain and the European Union, a spokesman for the bloc warned. The two sides failed to make a major breakthrough after the latest round of negotiations took place in London. Brussels claimed it was still working “constructively” but suggested that Boris Johnson’s top trade negotiator had failed to make the necessary concessions. A European Commission spokesman said: “The EU is engaging constructively and in good faith, as Michel Barnier pointed out earlier this week. We are working hard to overcome the significant divergences that remain between us.” 12.19pm update: Boris Johnson questioned by angry Brexiteer about plot to keep UK in EU tariff regime Brexiteer Steve Baker has warned against any possibility of the UK being trapped in the EU's tariff regime after the end of the year - prompting an extraordinary intervention from Boris Johnson himself to offer reassurance. And the Tory MP for Wycombe later told Express.co.uk he had no concerns about the Prime Minister's commitment - while acknowledging problems existed "elsewhere in the machinery". Mr Baker pressed Mr Johnson in Parliament yesterday, and after apparently being dissatisfied with his answer, subsequently voiced his concerns on the European Research Group's WhatsApp group, ITV's political editor Robert Peston revealed. Speaking in the Commons, Mr Baker raised concerns about a post-Brexit trade and UK tariffs, on the same day a leaked letter written by International Trade Secretary Liz Truss to Michael Gove and Rishi Sunak the UK's ports were not yet ready for an independent trade regime.
Michel Barnier was in London this week for Brexit talks
10.52am update: Europeans order UK tourists to 'stay away' from their holiday hotspots – shock poll UK holidaymakers have been told to "stay away" from European holiday destinations as the pandemic-stricken tourism industry restarts after the coronavirus crisis, according to new study. The YouGov poll found people in Spain, France, Italy and Germany were more opposed to Britons than visitors from any other European country. Only tourists from China and the United States were perceived as less desirable than British history’s because of the high coronavirus infect rate. Spaniards were the hardest on Britons, with 61 percent of respondents calling for a total ban on them entering the country. 9.49am update: Brexit risks continue to weigh on Sterling Sterling rose 0.3 percent against the dollar as investors showed a delayed response to finance minister Rishi Sunak's announcement of his plans to revive the economy, but Brexit risks continued to weigh on the British currency. The pound extended gains on Thursday, up 0.3 percent against a broadly weaker dollar to $1.2644 and up 0.1 percent to 89.68 pence versus the single currency. But Stephen Gallo, European head of the FX strategy at BMO Financial Group, warned Brexit risks limited the sterling rise, saying: "There has been a little bit of a delayed response, I think, to the fiscal story here in the UK. "If it weren't for the Brexit factor, which is holding down the pound, I think the pound would be significantly higher now because the UK has a much more dynamic fiscal story than the eurozone as a whole." 9am update: Brexit poll: are you worried about the break-up of the UK? VOTE Two senior pollsters are now suggesting Scottish independence is becoming increasingly likely - so with the break-up of the UK seeming more likely now than it did a year ago, today Express.co.uk readers are being asked: 'Are you worried?' VOTE HERE
Anti-Brexit campaigners rally in London
Boris Johnson has been urged to strike a deal with non-EU countries over fishing


thedailyexpress--2020-07-09--Brexit: When will Brexit happen? Impatient Britons ask 'Remember Brexit'?

Brexit represents the most important constitutional shake-up the UK has known since it joined the six-nation European Economic Community all the way back in 1973 .
The UK voted to leave the EU by 52 percent to 48 percent in June 2016 .
While the UK formally left the EU on January 31 , but there is still a lot to talk about and more negotiations to come .
While the UK has agreed the terms of its EU departure , both sides still need to decide what their future relationship will look like .
This will need to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which began immediately after Brexit day in January and is due to end on December 31 , 2020 .
During this 11-month period , the UK will continue to follow all of the EU 's rules and its trading relationship will remain the same .
• How Brexit is breaking Angela Merkel 's EU role apart Brexit was originally meant to happen in March 2019 , but as has been well documented , the deadline was delayed twice after MPs rejected the deal negotiated by then Prime Minister Theresa May .
After MPs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time , Mrs May decided to was time to go and resigned .
Following Boris Johnson 's selection and leader of the Conservative Party and Prime Minister , he needed a Brexit extension of his own after MPs failed to get the revised deal passed into law .
This led to the new deadline of January 2020 .
Meeting this tight deadline was going to be a huge challenge , even before the disaster that has been the coronavirus pandemic .
It was initially thought by some that the transition period would have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU states dealt with the unfolding catastrophe .
But despite a stalemate at the talks , an extension to the transition period has been ruled out , meaning the UK will leave later this year , with or without a deal .
Naturally , the coronavirus pandemic knocked Brexit off the top of news agenda , leading Twitter commentators to ask whether it will be going ahead at all .
DO N'T MISS Brexit divorce bill : How much is UK paying EU in 2020 ?
Blue passport : How to get a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Key dates as UK marks four years since EU referendum • Keir Starmer on brink : Why Labour faces opposition for DECADES One user said : `` Remember Brexit ?
Quickly being forgotten about - hard to imagine it once being the only thing we talked about ! ''
A first round of talks in March was followed by a six-week suspension amid the coronavirus outbreak , which totally overshadowed the process as it developed into a full pandemic .
Key figures including Michel Barnier and Boris Johnson were struck at various stages @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place by video link instead of face-to-face talks , a step seen as necessary but unsatisfactory given the detail involved , general difficulties of video calls and the dozens of negotiators for either side .
At every stage , both sides have expressed frustration at the lack of progress .
At the end of the second round of talks in April , Mr Barnier effectively accused the UK of dragging its feet .
He used similar language at the end of a third round of discussions in mid-May , accusing the UK of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's negotiator David Frost agreed little progress had been made , accusing the EU of adopting an ideological approach .
After the fourth round in early June , Mr Barnier said no significant progress had been made towards a deal , accusing the UK of backtracking on commitments .
However today Brexit has come back into the headlines as the Prime Minister has been dealt another blow in the form of Liz Truss , the UK 's International Trade Secretary .
She wrote to Rishi Sunak , the chancellor of the exchequer , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Duchy of Lancaster , setting out four key concerns about Brexit and raised deep concerns about Brexit border plans in a leaked letter .
In the letter , she warned Brexit border plans could break international trading rules , risk the UK 's international credibility , and lead to smuggling from the European Union .
Despite the certainty of leaving the block in December , it is expected that full border controls will come in from July 2021 .
She wrote : `` I would like assurances that we are able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ July 2021 and that plans are in place from January to mitigate the risk of goods being circumvented from ports implementing full controls . ''
Ms Truss said the UK trade department needs a `` clear view of operational plans , timescales and risks going forward . ''
The Government is due to publish its full plans for how the borders will work from next year on Monday .
Responding the news , one Twitter user commented : `` Is it time to start panicking when the Brexiters say Brexit ca n't work @ @

Brexit: Peter Lilley expecting a 'sensible' deal with the EU
Brexit represents the most important constitutional shake-up the UK has known since it joined the six-nation European Economic Community all the way back in 1973. The UK voted to leave the EU by 52 percent to 48 percent in June 2016.
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While the UK formally left the EU on January 31, but there is still a lot to talk about and more negotiations to come. While the UK has agreed the terms of its EU departure, both sides still need to decide what their future relationship will look like. This will need to be worked out during the transition period, which began immediately after Brexit day in January and is due to end on December 31, 2020. During this 11-month period, the UK will continue to follow all of the EU's rules and its trading relationship will remain the same.
Brexit:
Brexit: Coronavirus has pushed Brexit to the back of the news agenda in some regards
READ MORE How Brexit is breaking Angela Merkel's EU role apart Brexit was originally meant to happen in March 2019, but as has been well documented, the deadline was delayed twice after MPs rejected the deal negotiated by then Prime Minister Theresa May. After MPs voted down the deal for a third time, Mrs May decided to was time to go and resigned. Following Boris Johnson's selection and leader of the Conservative Party and Prime Minister, he needed a Brexit extension of his own after MPs failed to get the revised deal passed into law. This led to the new deadline of January 2020.
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Brexit: Boris won the December election on his promise to get brexit done
Meeting this tight deadline was going to be a huge challenge, even before the disaster that has been the coronavirus pandemic. It was initially thought by some that the transition period would have to be extended as the UK and EU states dealt with the unfolding catastrophe. But despite a stalemate at the talks, an extension to the transition period has been ruled out, meaning the UK will leave later this year, with or without a deal. Naturally, the coronavirus pandemic knocked Brexit off the top of news agenda, leading Twitter commentators to ask whether it will be going ahead at all. DON'T MISS
Brexit divorce bill: How much is UK paying EU in 2020?
Blue passport: How to get a new blue Brexit passport
Brexit timeline: Key dates as UK marks four years since EU referendum
READ MORE Keir Starmer on brink: Why Labour faces opposition for DECADES One user said: "Remember Brexit? Quickly being forgotten about - hard to imagine it once being the only thing we talked about!" A first round of talks in March was followed by a six-week suspension amid the coronavirus outbreak, which totally overshadowed the process as it developed into a full pandemic. Key figures including Michel Barnier and Boris Johnson were struck at various stages by COVID-19. Three further rounds took place by video link instead of face-to-face talks, a step seen as necessary but unsatisfactory given the detail involved, general difficulties of video calls and the dozens of negotiators for either side. At every stage, both sides have expressed frustration at the lack of progress. At the end of the second round of talks in April, Mr Barnier effectively accused the UK of dragging its feet.
Brexit: Liz Truss has penned a letter to her colleagues warning of illegal smuggling as a result of Brexit
He used similar language at the end of a third round of discussions in mid-May, accusing the UK of a lack of ambition. The UK's negotiator David Frost agreed little progress had been made, accusing the EU of adopting an ideological approach. After the fourth round in early June, Mr Barnier said no significant progress had been made towards a deal, accusing the UK of backtracking on commitments. However today Brexit has come back into the headlines as the Prime Minister has been dealt another blow in the form of Liz Truss, the UK's International Trade Secretary. She wrote to Rishi Sunak, the chancellor of the exchequer, and Michael Gove, the chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, setting out four key concerns about Brexit and raised deep concerns about Brexit border plans in a leaked letter.


thedailyexpress--2020-07-09--Boris Johnson questioned by angry Brexiteer about plot to keep UK in EU tariff regime

And the Tory MP for Wycombe later told Express.co.uk he had no concerns about the Prime Minister 's commitment - while acknowledging problems existed `` elsewhere in the machinery '' .
Mr Baker pressed Mr Johnson in Parliament yesterday , and after apparently being dissatisfied with his answer , subsequently voiced his concerns on the European Research Group 's WhatsApp group , ITV 's political editor Robert Peston revealed .
Speaking in the Commons , Mr Baker raised concerns about a post-Brexit trade and UK tariffs , on the same day a leaked letter written by International Trade Secretary Liz @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK 's ports were not yet ready for an independent trade regime .
Mr Baker asked : `` To avoid drama later , we need to complete the process of getting Brexit done in the next few months , so will the PM , therefore , please confirm for the benefit of everyone listening , that nothing in the Northern Ireland protocol will be allowed to stop the UK charging our own tariffs for the whole UK from the 1st January 2021 ? ''
Mr Johnson replied : `` Yes , not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not a tittle of the Northern Irish protocol will provide any such impediment to the unfettered access of goods and services between all parts of the UK . ''
Mr Baker then shared a clip of the exchange on Twitter , commenting : `` It 's a pity that was n't what I asked @ BorisJohnson . ''
Posting on WhatsApp , he explained : `` The reason for the question was that I understand some forces within government want us to charge the common external tariff on goods into UK after 1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is a boil which must be lanced early .
JUST IN : POLL - after shock warning , are you worried about UK break-up ?
VOTE '' At best it would be a return to May 's deal .
I can not believe Boris would do it . ''
Mr Peston , in a post retweeted by Mr Baker , said : `` Slightly to the amazement ... of the ERG WhatsApp Group ( WAG ) members , the PM popped up immediately with a reply saying `` not on your nelly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is fascinating for two reasons .
Baker obviously struck a prime ministerial nerve .
DO N'T MISS : Fishing OUTRAGE : UK fishermen rage at EU boats in British waters [ NEWS ] Brexit rage : How furious ex-Chancellor demanded Mark Carney resigned [ INSIGHT ] SNP shamed over plans to force fishermen under EU again [ ANALYSIS ] '' And it is striking that the PM has the time and desire to follow the ... ERG WAG in real time .
`` Odd perhaps he is n't otherwise engaged . ''
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had full faith in Boris Johnson . ''
He reiterated his position today , telling Express.co.uk : `` I have always had full faith in Boris .
`` Problems arise elsewhere in the machinery . ''
Mr Gove announced plans for the new border Brexit regime last month for traders , whereby customs and health checks required for goods imported from the EU would be phased in over six months .

Brexit: Boris Johnson questioned on UK ‘charging tariffs’
And the Tory MP for Wycombe later told Express.co.uk he had no concerns about the Prime Minister's commitment - while acknowledging problems existed "elsewhere in the machinery". Mr Baker pressed Mr Johnson in Parliament yesterday, and after apparently being dissatisfied with his answer, subsequently voiced his concerns on the European Research Group's WhatsApp group, ITV's political editor Robert Peston revealed.
Trending
Speaking in the Commons, Mr Baker raised concerns about a post-Brexit trade and UK tariffs, on the same day a leaked letter written by International Trade Secretary Liz Truss to Michael Gove and Rishi Sunak the UK's ports were not yet ready for an independent trade regime. Mr Baker asked: "To avoid drama later, we need to complete the process of getting Brexit done in the next few months, so will the PM, therefore, please confirm for the benefit of everyone listening, that nothing in the Northern Ireland protocol will be allowed to stop the UK charging our own tariffs for the whole UK from the 1st January 2021?" Mr Johnson replied: "Yes, not a sausage, not a jot, not a tittle of the Northern Irish protocol will provide any such impediment to the unfettered access of goods and services between all parts of the UK."
Steve Baker initially voiced his concerns in Parliament
Steve Baker's tweet after his exchange with the PM in the Commons
Mr Baker then shared a clip of the exchange on Twitter, commenting: "It's a pity that wasn't what I asked @BorisJohnson." Posting on WhatsApp, he explained: "The reason for the question was that I understand some forces within government want us to charge the common external tariff on goods into UK after 1 Jan. "This is not confirmed but it is a boil which must be lanced early. JUST IN: POLL - after shock warning, are you worried about UK break-up? VOTE
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Steve Baker presses Boris Johnson in Parliament
Boris Johnson responding to Mr Baker in Parliament
International Trade Secretary Liz Truss
"And it is striking that the PM has the time and desire to follow the...ERG WAG in real time. "Odd perhaps he isn't otherwise engaged." Mr Baker himself commented: "I always had full faith in Boris Johnson."
How customs might work under Boris Johnson's plans
He reiterated his position today, telling Express.co.uk: "I have always had full faith in Boris. "Problems arise elsewhere in the machinery." Mr Gove announced plans for the new border Brexit regime last month for traders, whereby customs and health checks required for goods imported from the EU would be phased in over six months.
Mrs Truss wrote to Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Michael Gove


thedailyexpress--2020-07-09--Rishi Sunak takes UK out for dinner! Chancellor to pick up tab for meals out next month

Mr Sunak urged the public to “ eat out to help out '' businesses struggling to get back on their feet after the shutdown .
The unprecedented measure comes on top of a £4billion VAT cut on food , accommodation and attractions to protect 2.4 million jobs .
Business leaders said the package will kickstart the hardest hits parts of the economy and restaurant chains saw a hike in share prices .
Senior Tories said paying the public to go to pubs was a “ radical ” way to save the hospitality sector .
Mr Sunak said that his summer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the UK before but the government has had to find innovative ways to deal with impact of coronavirus on the economy .
“ We need to be creative , “ he said .
“ So , to get customers back into restaurants , cafes and pubs and protect the 1.8 million people who work in them , I can announce for the month of August , we will give everyone in the country an 'eat out to help out ' discount.
” The discount can be used as many times as customers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drinks will not be covered .
Businesses will need to register online from next Monday and will have the money paid into their accounts within five working days of making a claim .
Around 129,000 businesses are expected to benefit and it is hoped it will help protect 1.8 million jobs , many of which are held by young people struggling to make ends meet .
An average family spends £19.40 a week on eating in cafes and restaurants , according to Treasury research .
Shares in Wagamama-owner The Restaurant Group rose by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ statement .
Chief executive officer Andy Hornby said : “ We warmly welcome many of the initiatives announced today including cutting VAT , support for team members returning from furlough and the August discount scheme .
This will be a genuine help as we welcome back our customers in what will continue to be a very challenging market ” .
Former business secretary Andrea Leadsom , below , said : `` Never done before – government paying us all to go back to restaurants , cafes and pubs via a discount for food @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the hospitality sector going and save jobs . ''
Mr Sunak ’ s mini-budget was focused on saving jobs after months of hardship for businesses and workers .
To help revive the ailing hospitality and tourism sectors , he announced VAT will be cut from 20 percent to five percent for the next six months .
It will apply to eat-in and hot takeaway food from restaurants , cafes and pubs .
The move will benefit accommodation in hotels , B & Bs , campsites and caravan sites , along with attractions such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Businesses can pocket the cash but the Treasury hopes they will pass on the benefit to customers .
It estimates the change will save households around £160 per year on average .
The VAT cut will start on July 15 and run until January 12 .
Mr Sunak said : `` This is a £4billion catalyst for the hospitality and tourism sectors , benefiting over 150,000 businesses , and consumers everywhere – all helping to protect 2.4 million jobs . ''
Suren Thiru , the head of economics at the British Chambers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chancellor has listened to our call for a temporary cut in VAT which will kickstart consumer spending in some parts of the economy .
This is a welcome step and will help to stimulate a more rapid pickup in activity in those sectors and supply chains hardest hit as the economy gradually reopens.
” Kate Nicholls , the chief executive of UK Hospitality which represents the pub and restaurant trade , said the VAT cut and Eat Out scheme would have a significant impact on the sector as it tries to bounce back @

Rishi Sunak is hoping this will became a regular sight again
Mr Sunak urged the public to “eat out to help out" businesses struggling to get back on their feet after the shutdown. The unprecedented measure comes on top of a £4billion VAT cut on food, accommodation and attractions to protect 2.4 million jobs. Business leaders said the package will kickstart the hardest hits parts of the economy and restaurant chains saw a hike in share prices.
Senior Tories said paying the public to go to pubs was a “radical” way to save the hospitality sector. Mr Sunak said that his summer meal deal discount has never been tried in the UK before but the government has had to find innovative ways to deal with impact of coronavirus on the economy. “We need to be creative,“ he said. “So, to get customers back into restaurants, cafes and pubs and protect the 1.8 million people who work in them, I can announce for the month of August, we will give everyone in the country an 'eat out to help out' discount.” The discount can be used as many times as customers want on any eat-in meal but alcoholic drinks will not be covered.
Rishi Sunak wants you to eat out
Businesses will need to register online from next Monday and will have the money paid into their accounts within five working days of making a claim. Around 129,000 businesses are expected to benefit and it is hoped it will help protect 1.8 million jobs, many of which are held by young people struggling to make ends meet. An average family spends £19.40 a week on eating in cafes and restaurants, according to Treasury research. Shares in Wagamama-owner The Restaurant Group rose by 2.6 percent shortly after the Chancellor's statement.
Chief executive officer Andy Hornby said: “We warmly welcome many of the initiatives announced today including cutting VAT, support for team members returning from furlough and the August discount scheme. This will be a genuine help as we welcome back our customers in what will continue to be a very challenging market”. Former business secretary Andrea Leadsom, below, said: "Never done before – government paying us all to go back to restaurants, cafes and pubs via a discount for food. Interesting and radical way to get the hospitality sector going and save jobs." Mr Sunak’s mini-budget was focused on saving jobs after months of hardship for businesses and workers. To help revive the ailing hospitality and tourism sectors, he announced VAT will be cut from 20 percent to five percent for the next six months.
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Former business secretary Andrea Leadsom
It will apply to eat-in and hot takeaway food from restaurants, cafes and pubs. The move will benefit accommodation in hotels, B&Bs, campsites and caravan sites, along with attractions such as cinemas, theme parks and zoos. Businesses can pocket the cash but the Treasury hopes they will pass on the benefit to customers. It estimates the change will save households around £160 per year on average. The VAT cut will start on July 15 and run until January 12.
A sight we all want to see again soon
Mr Sunak said: "This is a £4billion catalyst for the hospitality and tourism sectors, benefiting over 150,000 businesses, and consumers everywhere – all helping to protect 2.4 million jobs." Suren Thiru, the head of economics at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “The Chancellor has listened to our call for a temporary cut in VAT which will kickstart consumer spending in some parts of the economy. This is a welcome step and will help to stimulate a more rapid pickup in activity in those sectors and supply chains hardest hit as the economy gradually reopens.” Kate Nicholls, the chief executive of UK Hospitality which represents the pub and restaurant trade, said the VAT cut and Eat Out scheme would have a significant impact on the sector as it tries to bounce back.
She said: “This significant VAT cut, heightened ability to retain staff and incentives for consumers to eat out together amount to a huge bonus. “We hope that the UK public rightly sees it as a sign that we are ready to welcome them back safely. The future of many businesses and jobs depends on it.” David Weston, the chairman of the Bed & Breakfast Association, said: "We are delighted by the VAT cut on behalf of our larger members, guesthouses and small hotels who are VAT registered. "It will help stimulate demand and, once our borders open to incoming tourism, will also help UK tourism overall as Britain's VAT rate has been amongst the highest of our international competitors."


thedailyexpress--2020-07-09--‘You fixed nothing!’ Sharma on the spot as Peston erupts over Conservative record

Alok Sharma was challenged to outline the British Government 's plan to reduce Britain 's debt in light of a new set of £30 billion measures aimed at containing the risks of the coronavirus outbreak .
ITV political editor Robert Peston quizzed the Business Secretary over the plans as he questioned the Conservative Party 's record in curbing spending .
Mr Sharma told ITV Peston : `` If you remember back to 2010 when the Conservatives came into Government , the public finances were in a really precarious position .
`` We worked really hard to get the deficit down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to fix the roof when the sun was shining we are now able to weather the storm . ''
But the comment had Mr Peston interrupting : `` Hang on a second , hang on a second , hang on a second .
No , no , no .
`` In 2010 , the debt to GDP ratio was 40 percent , it ’ s now 100 percent .
It ’ s more than twice what it was , you fixed nothing .
`` It ’ s worse than it was .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we ’ ve got a deficit we never had before . ''
JUST IN : Do n't be fooled , Boris !
UK fishing chief exposes devious Barnier 's Brexit plot But Mr Sharma insisted the impact of the coronavirus crisis makes it `` absolutely right '' for the Government to invest in the economy .
He said : `` Robert , it ’ s absolutely right that we have taken the measures that we have .
`` The cost of inaction would have been much greater than the cost of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are able to borrow , borrowing rates are at record low . ''
READ MORE : Rishi Sunak shuts down Kay Burley as Sky News host challenges rescue plan - 'We did that' Chancellor Sunak on Wednesday unveiled a series of new policies aimed at restraining unemployment and in a bid to boost the British economy after months of lockdown .
In addition to a reduction of VAT from 20 percent to 5 percent for the next six months , Mr Sunak announced a 50 percent discount to all restaurant-goers between Monday and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and help business owners .
The Chancellor told the Commons : `` I can announce today that , for the month of August , we will give everyone in the country an 'Eat Out to Help Out ' discount .
Blackford stumbles as BBC 's Munchetty gets truth on who would pay for SNP demands [ VIDEO ] After shock warning , are you worried about the break-up of the UK ?
[ POLL ] China issues sinister threat to Canada as furious row breaks out [ WARNING ]

Peston erupts in fiery clash with Alok Sharma over UK debt
Alok Sharma was challenged to outline the British Government's plan to reduce Britain's debt in light of a new set of £30 billion measures aimed at containing the risks of the coronavirus outbreak. ITV political editor Robert Peston quizzed the Business Secretary over the plans as he questioned the Conservative Party's record in curbing spending. Mr Sharma told ITV Peston: "If you remember back to 2010 when the Conservatives came into Government, the public finances were in a really precarious position.
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"We worked really hard to get the deficit down and it’s because we were able to fix the roof when the sun was shining we are now able to weather the storm." But the comment had Mr Peston interrupting: "Hang on a second, hang on a second, hang on a second. No, no, no. "In 2010, the debt to GDP ratio was 40 percent, it’s now 100 percent. It’s more than twice what it was, you fixed nothing. "It’s worse than it was. And we now got a record deficit, we’ve got a deficit we never had before." JUST IN: Don't be fooled, Boris! UK fishing chief exposes devious Barnier's Brexit plot
Alok Sharma came under fire over the Conservative's debt record
Robert Peston pointed out an inconsistency with Sharma's argument
But Mr Sharma insisted the impact of the coronavirus crisis makes it "absolutely right" for the Government to invest in the economy. He said: "Robert, it’s absolutely right that we have taken the measures that we have. "The cost of inaction would have been much greater than the cost of the reaction we have taken. "We are able to borrow, borrowing rates are at record low." READ MORE: Rishi Sunak shuts down Kay Burley as Sky News host challenges rescue plan - 'We did that'
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Rishi Sunak’s summer statement labelled a ‘bribe’ by Peston
Alok Sharma insisted the Conservatives had "fixed" the economy in preparation for the crisis
Chancellor Sunak on Wednesday unveiled a series of new policies aimed at restraining unemployment and in a bid to boost the British economy after months of lockdown. In addition to a reduction of VAT from 20 percent to 5 percent for the next six months, Mr Sunak announced a 50 percent discount to all restaurant-goers between Monday and Wednesday to encourage them to eat out and help business owners. The Chancellor told the Commons: "I can announce today that, for the month of August, we will give everyone in the country an 'Eat Out to Help Out' discount. DON’T MISS: Blackford stumbles as BBC's Munchetty gets truth on who would pay for SNP demands [VIDEO]
After shock warning, are you worried about the break-up of the UK? [POLL]
China issues sinister threat to Canada as furious row breaks out [WARNING]
Peston noted the debt to GDP ratio is now "worse" than 10 years ago


thedailyexpress--2020-07-09--Kay Burley puts Dodds on spot over Labour demands from Sunak 'can't keep borrowing'

Kay Burley pointed out the British Government had committed nearly £200 billion to help the economy recover after the coronavirus crisis , with Rishi Sunak investing another £30 billion on Wednesday to contain unemployment .
Shadow Chancellor Anneliese Dodds welcomed the policies but insisted the Government could have spent more on revolutionising UK industries in light of the impact of the crisis .
But the Sky News host told the Labour Party frontbencher : `` We ’ re at £200 billion already .
You can ’ t keep borrowing forever .
`` We are going to have to pay it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to decide who should benefit more than others and they have made a conscious decision that it ’ s the young coming through employment who should be focused on .
Surely , that ’ s what Labour wants to happen . ''
Ms Dodds said she could understand the focus on youth employment but warned the Chancellor will need to ensure the schemes putting them into work do not push out older employees .
She said : `` We do want to see that focus when it comes to sort of active labour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who become unemployed .
JUST IN : Do n't be fooled , Boris !
UK fishing chief exposes devious Barnier 's Brexit plot '' We wanted the Government to learn from previous schemes that have worked .
`` I ’ m pleased they have set out this kickstart scheme , of course , they need to make sure those jobs are genuinely new jobs and are now pushing older people out of employment .
`` This isn ’ t just about how much the Chancellor spends , it ’ s about whether that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ previously Ms Dodds insisted Mr Sunak needed to move away from his `` one size fits all '' approach to the crisis and work on some sector-based solutions .
READ MORE : Rishi Sunak shuts down Kay Burley as Sky News host challenges rescue plan - 'Where ’ s the help ?
’ She continued : `` There is going to be change in some sector .
There is going to be change in aviation , for example , a reduction in demand .
`` There needed to be change anyway because of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be planned change .
`` We don ’ t seem to have that plan coming from Government for many sectors of our economy .
`` As I said , that will likely lead to additional unemployment and it will be expensive in the long run , not just for those people who become unemployed but it ’ s expensive for our economy as well . ''
Blackford stumbles as BBC 's Naga Munchetty gets truth on who would pay for SNP demands [ VIDEO ] After shock warning , are you worried about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ POLL ] China issues sinister threat to Canada as furious row breaks out [ WARNING ] Speaking to Sky News , Chancellor Sunak conceded he has focused many of his recovery policies to younger workers but insisted a new apprenticeship scheme will help older workers who are laid off find new opportunities in other sectors .
Mr Sunak said : `` I ’ m concentrating my support on the young because that ’ s where there are the most acute issues , they are the ones that are the most impacted and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ impacted as well by what ’ s happening .
`` One thing we did yesterday is introducing a new bonus for companies to take on apprentices above the age of 25 .
`` That ’ s not something that normally happens , normally incentive payments for employers to take on apprentices are concentrated on youngsters .
`` Actually , 44 percent of apprentices today are actually older than 25 . ''

Kay Burley tells Anneliese Dodds ‘we can’t keep borrowing’
Kay Burley pointed out the British Government had committed nearly £200 billion to help the economy recover after the coronavirus crisis, with Rishi Sunak investing another £30 billion on Wednesday to contain unemployment. Shadow Chancellor Anneliese Dodds welcomed the policies but insisted the Government could have spent more on revolutionising UK industries in light of the impact of the crisis. But the Sky News host told the Labour Party frontbencher: "We’re at £200 billion already. You can’t keep borrowing forever.
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"We are going to have to pay it back eventually. "The Government has to decide who should benefit more than others and they have made a conscious decision that it’s the young coming through employment who should be focused on. Surely, that’s what Labour wants to happen." Ms Dodds said she could understand the focus on youth employment but warned the Chancellor will need to ensure the schemes putting them into work do not push out older employees. She said: "We do want to see that focus when it comes to sort of active labour market policies, so to help people who become unemployed. JUST IN: Don't be fooled, Boris! UK fishing chief exposes devious Barnier's Brexit plot
Kay Burley told Dodds the UK
Anneliese Dodds suggested Sunak should have adopted a more "targeted" approach
"We wanted the Government to learn from previous schemes that have worked. "I’m pleased they have set out this kickstart scheme, of course, they need to make sure those jobs are genuinely new jobs and are now pushing older people out of employment. "This isn’t just about how much the Chancellor spends, it’s about whether that money is appropriately targeted." But previously Ms Dodds insisted Mr Sunak needed to move away from his "one size fits all" approach to the crisis and work on some sector-based solutions. READ MORE: Rishi Sunak shuts down Kay Burley as Sky News host challenges rescue plan - 'Where’s the help?’
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Rishi Sunak shuts down BBC host over French comparison
Dodds however welcomed investment on promoting youth employment
The coronavirus lockdown had severe repercussions on the UK economy


thedailyexpress--2020-07-09--Angela Merkel warns Brexit talks on the brink as EU ramps up preparations for no deal exit

Mr Johnson had told her Britain will walk away unless an agreement is reached soon .
“ Progress in negotiations thus far has been slim , to put it diplomatically , ” Mrs Merkel told the European Parliament .
“ We have agreed with the UK to accelerate the pace of the talks ...
I will continue to push for a good solution , but we should also prepare for a possibility of a no-deal scenario.
” UK and EU negotiators held talks in London yesterday to try to thrash out an agreement by the end of summer .
Fishing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that would bind Britain to Brussels ’ rules in the future have caused clashes throughout the talks .
British official David Frost and Eurocrat Michel Barnier had a “ constructive ” dinner ahead of the discussions , Downing Street said .
Mr Barnier said the two sides will `` continue negotiating in good faith '' and their meetings had been `` useful '' .
Mr Johnson has been adamant that he will not allow the discussions to drag on into the autumn , insisting British businesses and citizens need certainty on the way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sides are unable to reach a deal by the end of the current Brexit transition period at the end of the year , Britain will leave the single market and the customs union and do business on world trade terms .
It comes as Brussels was accused of `` outrageous '' bullying after ordering the UK to lift national restrictions aimed at stopping one of the world 's most harmful plant diseases entering the country from mainland Europe .
Failure to keep out the pest will have a devastating impact on the nation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warned .
Britain is still bound by EU rules until the transition period ends in December .
The European Commission has forced the repeal of the UK ’ s strict import measures on certain high-risk host plants including olive , lavender and rosemary .
Peers said the move was `` a mistake '' and raised concerns about the spread of Xylella fastidiosa , which kills plants .
The bacteria has so far been kept out of the UK but there have been major outbreaks in Europe .
Tory peer Lord Framlingham said it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Commission to bully us in this way given the gravity of the situation ” .

Brexit: Angela Merkel says EU must prepare for no deal
Mr Johnson had told her Britain will walk away unless an agreement is reached soon. “Progress in negotiations thus far has been slim, to put it diplomatically,” Mrs Merkel told the European Parliament. “We have agreed with the UK to accelerate the pace of the talks ... I will continue to push for a good solution, but we should also prepare for a possibility of a no-deal scenario.” UK and EU negotiators held talks in London yesterday to try to thrash out an agreement by the end of summer.
Fishing rights and so-called level playing field rules that would bind Britain to Brussels’ rules in the future have caused clashes throughout the talks. British official David Frost and Eurocrat Michel Barnier had a “constructive” dinner ahead of the discussions, Downing Street said. Mr Barnier said the two sides will "continue negotiating in good faith" and their meetings had been "useful". Mr Johnson has been adamant that he will not allow the discussions to drag on into the autumn, insisting British businesses and citizens need certainty on the way forward before then.
Angela Merkel and Boris Johnson
Our man David Frost and Michel Barnier
If the two sides are unable to reach a deal by the end of the current Brexit transition period at the end of the year, Britain will leave the single market and the customs union and do business on world trade terms. It comes as Brussels was accused of "outrageous" bullying after ordering the UK to lift national restrictions aimed at stopping one of the world's most harmful plant diseases entering the country from mainland Europe. Failure to keep out the pest will have a devastating impact on the nation's trees and shrubs, it was warned. Britain is still bound by EU rules until the transition period ends in December.
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Brexit: Michel Barnier arrives for private dinner with David Frost


thedailyexpress--2020-07-09--Brexit chaos: Johnson's border plans torn apart by OWN cabinet minister - LEAKED LETTER

The UK is set to leave trading and customs rules set by the EU at the end of the transition period on December 31 , but the Government has recently announced full border controls wo n't be applied on goods until July 2021 .
But in a leaked letter seen by Business Insider , International Trade Secretary Liz Truss has written to Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Michael Gove , expressing our `` key areas of concerns '' about the Government 's plans to leave EU trading and custom rules this year .
Ms Truss @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK 's plan for a phased approach on border checks on goods coming from the EU from January to July .
She warned the UK would `` be vulnerable to WTO challenge '' because of its border policy , as Britain would be providing the EU with preferential treatment in this six month period , and could be a breach of rules if there is not a free-trade agreement between London and Brussels in place by that time .
The International Trade Secretary also suggested from January 1 , all goods going into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have an EU tariff applied by default because a system to apply both UK and EU tariffs may not be ready to launch .
She wrote : `` I understand that the digital delivery of the dual tariff system ( both EU and UK tariff ) in Northern Ireland is a high risk and that HMRC are planning to apply the EU tariff as a default to all imports in NI on 1 January 2021 . ''
Ms Truss also warned Mr Sunak and Mr Gove there is a risk of smuggling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not ready to enforce the full range of checks on goods from January .
The Cabinet Minister wrote : `` I would like assurances that we are able to deliver full control at these ports by July 2021 and that plans are in place from January to mitigate the risk of goods being circumvented from ports implementing full controls . ''
The International Trade Secretary also expressed fears about angering unionists in Northern Ireland , warning : `` This is very concerning as this may call into question NI 's place in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likely intensify fears in the country that businesses there could be hit with huge new costs on imported goods from next year .
Aodhan Connolly from the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium told Business Insider : `` If true , a plan to implement EU tariffs as a default provides unprecedented problems to retailers who trade in Northern Ireland . ''
READ MORE : Brexit LIVE : We DO need a deal ... just not with EU !
`` Retail accounts for 70 percent of the value of trade that crosses GB-NI and even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tariffs the implications for cash flow while waiting for refunds makes the premise untenable . ''
`` I am glad the International Trade Secretary shares our concerns about a workable system being in place by January 2021 .
`` That 's why we want to see tried and tested off the peg solutions such as a trusted trader or green channel scheme that will remove friction and allow the majority of goods to flow freely . ''
In her letter to Mr Sunak and Mr Gove , the International Trade Secretary also said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that following the XO meeting last Friday , it was decided that the temporary waving of export declarations will not be included in the publication . ''
DO N'T MISS Michel Barnier exposed : Secret reason Brexit chief will sacrifice EU [ COMMENT ] How Brexit is breaking Angela Merkel 's EU role apart [ REPORT ] UK on brink : Sturgeon VICTORY as expert makes bold EU prediction [ OPINION ] Ms Truss finished the letter by telling her Chancellor colleagues : `` We need to ensure that the UK border is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ maintaining our credibility with trading partners , the WTO and with business . ''
A Government spokesman did not deny the concerns , but said : “ We do not comment on leaks.
” Former advisor to Theresa May , Raoul Ruparel , downplayed the concerns on Twitter .
He said : `` Think some clarification needed on some of this .
Usual DIT gripes which have been around for some time .
`` What they actually want is a harder border on day 1 as it suits their trade negotiations & WTO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thing .
The phased approach is the right call . ''
Regarding the Business Insider piece , he said : `` I think the article unfortunately misunderstands the point Truss is making about NI .
She is not referring to tariffs between GB and NI but on a dual tariff for RoW goods entering NI .
`` This wo n't be ready for day one .
Not ideal but not the end of the world either .
`` The question of a WTO challenge has been around since the previous Government announced its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ impossible , it is a temporary approach & I think on solid enough legal ground . ''

Brexit: Angela Merkel says EU must prepare for no deal
The UK is set to leave trading and customs rules set by the EU at the end of the transition period on December 31, but the Government has recently announced full border controls won't be applied on goods until July 2021. But in a leaked letter seen by Business Insider, International Trade Secretary Liz Truss has written to Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Michael Gove, expressing our "key areas of concerns" about the Government's plans to leave EU trading and custom rules this year. Ms Truss raised concerns about the legality of the UK's plan for a phased approach on border checks on goods coming from the EU from January to July.
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She warned the UK would "be vulnerable to WTO challenge" because of its border policy, as Britain would be providing the EU with preferential treatment in this six month period, and could be a breach of rules if there is not a free-trade agreement between London and Brussels in place by that time. The International Trade Secretary also suggested from January 1, all goods going into Northern Ireland from other countries would have to have an EU tariff applied by default because a system to apply both UK and EU tariffs may not be ready to launch. She wrote: "I understand that the digital delivery of the dual tariff system (both EU and UK tariff) in Northern Ireland is a high risk and that HMRC are planning to apply the EU tariff as a default to all imports in NI on 1 January 2021." Ms Truss also warned Mr Sunak and Mr Gove there is a risk of smuggling into the UK if all ports are not ready to enforce the full range of checks on goods from January.
Brexit news: The Prime Minister's border plans have been questioned
Brexit news: Boris Johnson's border plans have been called into question
The Cabinet Minister wrote: "I would like assurances that we are able to deliver full control at these ports by July 2021 and that plans are in place from January to mitigate the risk of goods being circumvented from ports implementing full controls." The International Trade Secretary also expressed fears about angering unionists in Northern Ireland, warning: "This is very concerning as this may call into question NI's place in the UK customs territory." This will likely intensify fears in the country that businesses there could be hit with huge new costs on imported goods from next year. Aodhan Connolly from the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium told Business Insider: "If true, a plan to implement EU tariffs as a default provides unprecedented problems to retailers who trade in Northern Ireland." READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: We DO need a deal... just not with EU!
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Brexit news: Liz Truss has raised a number of concerns over the Government's border plans
"Retail accounts for 70 percent of the value of trade that crosses GB-NI and even if we were able to reclaim the tariffs the implications for cash flow while waiting for refunds makes the premise untenable." "I am glad the International Trade Secretary shares our concerns about a workable system being in place by January 2021. "That's why we want to see tried and tested off the peg solutions such as a trusted trader or green channel scheme that will remove friction and allow the majority of goods to flow freely." In her letter to Mr Sunak and Mr Gove, the International Trade Secretary also said: "I am pleased to hear that following the XO meeting last Friday, it was decided that the temporary waving of export declarations will not be included in the publication." DON'T MISS
Michel Barnier exposed: Secret reason Brexit chief will sacrifice EU [COMMENT]
How Brexit is breaking Angela Merkel's EU role apart [REPORT]
UK on brink: Sturgeon VICTORY as expert makes bold EU prediction [OPINION]
Brexit news: The Government has recently announced full border controls won't be applied on goods until July 2021
Brexit news: Thousands of lorries carrying goods go through Dover each day
Ms Truss finished the letter by telling her Chancellor colleagues: "We need to ensure that the UK border is effective and compliant with international rules, maintaining our credibility with trading partners, the WTO and with business." A Government spokesman did not deny the concerns, but said: “We do not comment on leaks.” Former advisor to Theresa May, Raoul Ruparel, downplayed the concerns on Twitter. He said: "Think some clarification needed on some of this. Usual DIT gripes which have been around for some time.
Brexit news: How customs might work under Boris' deal
"What they actually want is a harder border on day 1 as it suits their trade negotiations & WTO role. That would be a bad thing. The phased approach is the right call." Regarding the Business Insider piece, he said: "I think the article unfortunately misunderstands the point Truss is making about NI. She is not referring to tariffs between GB and NI but on a dual tariff for RoW goods entering NI. "This won't be ready for day one. Not ideal but not the end of the world either. "The question of a WTO challenge has been around since the previous Government announced its no deal border approach. While not impossible, it is a temporary approach & I think on solid enough legal ground."
Brexit news: Rishi Sunak was one of the recipients of the letter from Liz Truss


thedailyexpress--2020-07-10--Brexit LIVE: Michel Barnier warns of ‘inevitable’ changes whether there’s a UK deal or not

The group said Brexit was an opportunity for Britain to “ assert its independence and use the size of its domestic market for fish to strike better fisheries access deals ” with places like Norway , Greenland , the Faroe Islands and Iceland .
They argued the UK has “ strong cards to play ” .
British Fisheries wrote : “ The future of the UK ’ s distant waters fleet is in jeopardy if we don ’ t take great care in ongoing negotiations with our Nordic non-EU coastal neighbours .
The opportunity is there for our negotiating teams @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now take it .
`` The UK runs a trade deficit with the Nordic coastal fishing nations amounting to almost a billion pounds annually .
It ’ s a very one-sided arrangement .
“ As a newly-independent coastal state , the UK has the opportunity to assert its independence and use the size of its domestic market for fish to strike better fisheries access deals with Norway , Greenland and the Faeroes – and with Iceland , where currently we can ’ t fish at all .
“ Most of the fish we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waters , and not from the UK .
We like cod , haddock , salmon and prawns – species that are most abundant in the northern waters between Norway and Greenland , and far less so in our own Exclusive Economic Zone ( EEZ ) .
“ What we catch in our own waters is mostly exported to the EU .
So the fish-based Nordic economies are reliant on the UK for exports of their fish ( salmon , cod , haddock and prawns ) .
” Brexit will give us the ability @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fish to maintain or improve access to these Nordic waters .
“ Make no mistake , our Nordic coastal partners recognise that the UK has strong cards to play .
They ’ re just surprised that we have n't played them yet.
” 2:00am update : EU would welcome Scotland , snub UK , according to expert Kirsty Hughes , former director of Scottish Centre on Europe Relations , claims the EU would have “ complete openness ” to Scotland rejoining the bloc .
This would only apply if they voted for independence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK .
Mrs Hughes is quoted by The New European as saying : “ On the Scottish side I think there is complete openness if Scotland was to vote Yes in a constitutionally and legally valid referendum .
“ There is complete openness to welcoming another small , northern European country into the European Union .
“ Frankly any big country applying to join the EU , whether it is Turkey or Ukraine or the UK , is always much more problematic usually than a smaller country.
” 12:30am update : UK Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Northern Ireland trade Post-Brexit trade between the UK and Northern Ireland has been allocated £25 million to assist with any complications .
After the UK leaves the EU on January 1 , Northern Ireland will stay in the blocs single market for goods .
HMRC has splashed the case to create `` an end-to-end service to support businesses with new administrative processes '' .
Taoiseach Micheal Martin has described Sinn Fein 's calls for a border poll on a united Ireland as divisive and said he would favour a different approach .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a referendum on Irish unity is `` imperative '' to growing the Irish economy .
Speaking in the Dail in Dublin , she said : `` A united Ireland is the best idea for the future of our country .
`` It is essential to the prosperity of all our people because growing our economy requires an all-Ireland approach .
However , the Irish PM said an all-island unit has been set up in the Department of the Taoiseach but said Sinn Fein 's insistence on a border poll is divisive .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ precipitating or organising a referendum like that is the way to go .
`` That was the Sinn Fein position since Brexit happened and you have come back a bit from it . ''
The Government declined an opportunity to join an EU coronavirus vaccine scheme after ministers expressed concerns over “ costly delays '' , reports claim .
The Telegraph is reporting that Business Secretary Alok Sharma walked away from the plan after failing to secure “ sufficient assurance ” Britain would receive the number of vaccines it needs on time .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ holding talks with the EU for weeks regarding the scheme which involves using the bloc ’ s collective bargaining power to agree deals with international drugs companies .
Gains for the British currency were limited by looming Brexit risks , it has emerged today .
Sterling rose 0.3 percent on Thursday to 89.47 pence against the euro , touching its highest level since June 17 .
Versus the dollar , the pound jumped 0.5 percent , touching $ 1.2669 in earlier trading , before returning to flat trading at $ 1.2612 at 3pm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the FX strategy at BMO Financial Group , said : `` There has been a little bit of a delayed response , I think , to the fiscal story here in the UK . ''
Gallo said Sunak 's fiscal plan is no game-changer and that he expects sterling to remain under pressure over the summer if Britain and the European Union fail to make progress in agreeing their future trading relationship .
He added : `` If it were n't for the Brexit factor , which is holding down the pound @ @ @ @ @ @ @ significantly higher now because the UK has a much more dynamic fiscal story than the eurozone as a whole . ''
Free university education for EU students studying in Scotland will be scrapped after Brexit .
Holyrood 's higher education minister Richard Lochhead said the Government will end free education for EU citizens starting their studies next year , with the money saved going towards encouraging more Scottish students into university .
Students from EU countries - as remains the case for those from within Scotland - have been eligible for free tuition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scottish Government will no longer be obliged to cover the cost for students from EU nations after Brexit and it has decided to charge them after that point .
The EU Commission has produced a document which encourages European businesses to revive their no-deal Brexit planning preparations as it warned of `` inevitable changes '' no matter the outcome of trade talks with the UK .
The communication , Getting Ready for Changes , told member states that the choices made by Boris Johnson 's administration in pushing to deviate from EU rules @ @ @ @ @ @ @ period beyond December meant `` inevitable disruptions will occur '' next year that would `` risk compounding the pressure that businesses are already under due to the Covid-19 outbreak '' .
Highlighting that it was `` essential that all stakeholders '' start preparing for `` far-reaching changes '' , the communication advised for businesses to `` consider revisiting their existing preparedness plans '' .
The document continued : `` Although these were drawn up for the risk of the UK 's withdrawal from the union without a withdrawal agreement - a scenario which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work will still be very relevant for the changes at the end of the transition period . ''
4.30pm update : Barnier warns of ‘ inevitable ’ changes whether there ’ s a UK deal or not The European Union 's chief negotiator Michel Barnier has said there will be `` inevitable changes '' no matter the outcome between Brussels and the UK on a post-Brexit trade deal .
He tweeted : `` This week 's discussions confirm that significant divergences remain between the European Union and the United Kingdom .
`` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and determination .
`` Regardless of the outcome , there will be inevitable changes on January 1 2021 . ''
3.30pm update : Significant divergences still between Brussels and UK on trade deal , EU says `` Significant divergences '' remain between Brussels and the UK on a post-Brexit trade deal following `` informal '' talks in London , the European Commission has said .
Michel Barnier crossed the Channel this week for what he deemed a `` useful discussion '' with Boris Johnson 's Europe adviser , David Frost , as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK-EU trade talks .
But Brussels said there were still issues blocking a deal despite the EU 's chief negotiator 's trip .
European Commission spokesman Daniel Farrie said at a briefing today : `` A number of meetings took place in London this week , as set out in the addendum of the terms of reference .
`` The EU is acting constructively and in good faith , as ( EU chief negotiator ) Michel Barnier pointed out earlier this week .
`` We are working hard to overcome the significant divergences @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will continue in Brussels next week and the next round of negotiations will take place in the week of July 20 in London . ''
2.18pm update : Plans to turn a ex-Battle of Britain airfield into `` global freight hub '' approved Plans to turn a former Battle of Britain airfield into a new `` global freight hub '' have been approved by the Government .
Development consent has been given to reopen and redevelop Manston Airport in Kent following a lengthy planning process .
He said : `` I am delighted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the redevelopment and reopening of Manston Airport .
`` This national asset has been closed for far too long but it can now play a critical role in delivering jobs and investment to Thanet , and the wider Kent and UK economy .
`` Manston has been an airport for more than a hundred years and this decision unlocks many millions of pounds of investment .
`` Post-Brexit Britain is going to need additional air freight capacity and Manston can offer this swiftly . ''
1.50pm : Brexit talks to continue into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : '' Meetings will continue in Brussels next week and the next round of negotiations will take place in week of July 20 in London . ''
When pushed on whether there were positives to take from the London meetings , Mr Farrie added : `` We are working towards an agreement . ''
Brexit trade talks broke up today with `` significant '' differences still remaining between Britain and the European Union , a spokesman for the bloc warned .
The two sides failed to make a major breakthrough after the latest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Brussels claimed it was still working “ constructively ” but suggested that Boris Johnson ’ s top trade negotiator had failed to make the necessary concessions .
A European Commission spokesman said : “ The EU is engaging constructively and in good faith , as Michel Barnier pointed out earlier this week .
We are working hard to overcome the significant divergences that remain between us.
” 12.19pm update : Boris Johnson questioned by angry Brexiteer about plot to keep UK in EU tariff regime Brexiteer Steve Baker has warned against any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the EU 's tariff regime after the end of the year - prompting an extraordinary intervention from Boris Johnson himself to offer reassurance .
And the Tory MP for Wycombe later told Express.co.uk he had no concerns about the Prime Minister 's commitment - while acknowledging problems existed `` elsewhere in the machinery '' .
Mr Baker pressed Mr Johnson in Parliament yesterday , and after apparently being dissatisfied with his answer , subsequently voiced his concerns on the European Research Group 's WhatsApp group , ITV 's political editor Robert Peston revealed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Baker raised concerns about a post-Brexit trade and UK tariffs , on the same day a leaked letter written by International Trade Secretary Liz Truss to Michael Gove and Rishi Sunak the UK 's ports were not yet ready for an independent trade regime .
10.52am update : Europeans order UK tourists to 'stay away ' from their holiday hotspots – shock poll UK holidaymakers have been told to `` stay away '' from European holiday destinations as the pandemic-stricken tourism industry restarts after the coronavirus crisis , according to new study .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , France , Italy and Germany were more opposed to Britons than visitors from any other European country .
Only tourists from China and the United States were perceived as less desirable than British history ’ s because of the high coronavirus infect rate .
Spaniards were the hardest on Britons , with 61 percent of respondents calling for a total ban on them entering the country .
Sterling rose 0.3 percent against the dollar as investors showed a delayed response to finance minister Rishi Sunak 's announcement of his plans to revive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to weigh on the British currency .
The pound extended gains on Thursday , up 0.3 percent against a broadly weaker dollar to $ 1.2644 and up 0.1 percent to 89.68 pence versus the single currency .
But Stephen Gallo , European head of the FX strategy at BMO Financial Group , warned Brexit risks limited the sterling rise , saying : `` There has been a little bit of a delayed response , I think , to the fiscal story here in the UK .
`` If it were n't for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pound , I think the pound would be significantly higher now because the UK has a much more dynamic fiscal story than the eurozone as a whole . ''
9am update : Brexit poll : are you worried about the break-up of the UK ?
VOTE Two senior pollsters are now suggesting Scottish independence is becoming increasingly likely - so with the break-up of the UK seeming more likely now than it did a year ago , today Express.co.uk readers are being asked : 'Are you worried ? '
VOTE HERE 8.48am @ @ @ @ @ @ @ border solution revealed real fear for EU trade Brexit trade talks are taking place at breakneck speed this month , but an Irish commentator has pointed out that there 's one key problem which has not been focused on yet .
Europe editor Tony Connelly wrote in Irish publication RTE that Ireland ’ s geography “ could be the next big problem ” in the Brexit negotiations earlier this month .
He explained : “ Brexit freight will , from January 1 , be third country freight , meaning it will be subject @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ports .
“ Neither those ports , nor British ports like Dover , are geared towards differentiating British and Irish freight.
” 8.15am update : Ex-MP pinpoints why Brexit chief will sacrifice EU in trade talks Michel Barnier could sacrifice the desires of the EU in the UK Brexit trade deal talks to further his own career , according to a former Conservative MP .
Brexit trade deal talks between the UK and EU have appeared to come to a halt as little has been agreed by the two parties .
However , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lilley has argued this could be about to change due to Michel Barnier .
While speaking to Brexit Watch on their YouTube channel , Mr Lilley claimed a good Canada-style deal was more likely for the UK now .
He claimed Michel Barnier 's political aspirations will drive him to make a success of the Brexit trade talks by any means .
Baron Lilley argued Mr Barnier will take steps to avoid a no deal scenario , and eventually agree to the demands of the UK .
The International Trade Secretary has warned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be vulnerable to a World Trade Organisation challenge in a leaked letter in which she raised concerns over smuggling .
Liz Truss wrote to Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove expressing her `` key areas of concerns '' on Wednesday , according to the Business Insider website .
In the email she reportedly warned the UK would `` be vulnerable to WTO challenge '' over its border policy by temporarily giving the EU preferential treatment in the absence of a trade deal .


thedailyexpress--2020-07-10--EU snub: COVID-19 vaccine scheme in MAJOR U-turn

The European Commission is set to be informed of the outcome today the report added .
Ministers have cited concerns over Brussels limiting the number of doses available to the UK .
The scheme , dubbed “ EU vaccine strategy ” , which aims to reach advance deals with producers to secure tens of millions of doses to member countries .
Ministers had looked into the proposal because of the potential economies of scale .
However , Brussels said the UK would not be able to join the scheme ’ s “ stressing committee ” because of Brexit .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ voice its opinion in the scheme or deciding who should have access to the vaccine first .
Another concern cited was the potential delay in the introduction of a vaccine in the UK by six months .
Initially , the EU wanted that Britain withdrew its support for national vaccine development , which is being done at Oxford University and Imperial College .
This condition was later scrapped , but ministers decided to turn down the offer after officials said it could postpone the development of a vaccine in the UK by six @ @ @ @ @ @ @ join the EU strategy under the Brexit withdrawal agreement currently in place .
The agreement gives the UK financial responsibilities , as well as the right to be involved in , all projects under the EU ’ s 2014-2020 budget .
In a statement , the European Commission said : “ We have reached out to the UK , inviting it to express its interest if it wants to participate in the joint EU approach established by the vaccine strategy.
” “ Discussions are now ongoing with the UK.
” But the delay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
DO N'T MISS : Coronavirus crisis : Inside the staggering cost of COVID-19 [ INSIGHT ] Nicola Sturgeon panic : First Minister warns of imported second wave [ UPDATES ] Prince Harry rejected move to South Africa with Meghan Markle [ REVEALED ] The decision to turn down the proposal is likely to prompt allegations of anti-EU sentiment within government .
Sources said taking part in the scheme could have meant “ costly delays ” for the UK if it found itself “ at the back of the queue ” for any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would also have been banned from engaging in talks with any vaccine developer in discussions with the EU .
One source said : “ The EU 's terms were pretty extraordinary .

Coronavirus vaccine: Doctor pledges 1 billion doses for 2021
The European Commission invited the UK to join the new 'EU vaccine strategy', which aims to secure advance agreements with manufacturers to provide millions of doses to member states and some ministers warmed to the plan believing it offered huge economies of scale. But mandarins in Brussels said the UK would be barred from attending the scheme's steering committee because of Brexit - and ministers have interpreted this as meaning Britain would have no say in either EU-wide coronavirus strategy or distrubtion amounts and who gets it first. The European Commission is set to be informed of the outcome today the report added.
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A further concern was the potential delay to the introduction of a vaccine in the UK by six months.
Initially, the EU insisted Britain withdraw backing for a national vaccine which is being developed at Oxford University and Imperial College.
The UK has rejected a proposal to join a European Union coronavirus 'scheme'
This condition was later scrapped, but ministers decided to turn down the offer after officials said it could delay the development of a vaccine in the UK by six months. The UK was invited to join the EU strategy under the Brexit withdrawal agreement currently in place. READ MORE: Royal Navy warships deployed to intercept Russian vessels
Brussels said the UK would not be able to join the scheme’s 'stressing committee' because of Brexit
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The vital importance of social distancing
Sources said taking part in the scheme could have meant “costly delays” for the UK if it found itself “at the back of the queue” for any vaccine the programme provides. The UK would also have been banned from engaging in talks with any other vaccine developer in discussions with the EU.
One source said: “The EU's terms were pretty extraordinary.
The decision to turn down the proposal is likely to prompt allegations of anti-EU sentiment within government


thedailyexpress--2020-07-09--EU rejected: Scottish taxpayers to no longer foot cost of free uni tuition for EU students

Richard Lochhead MSP , Scotland ’ s higher education minister said the SNP led administration would save £19million a year .
It comes after SNP MSP Alex Neil said the country could no longer afford the subsidy for “ rich EU kids ” at the “ expense of our own kids.
” Currently , EU law states the government ’ s free tuition fee policy for Scots requires EU students to be treated the same .
But after the Brexit transition period , the Scottish Government will no longer be obliged to cover the cost for students from EU nations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or starting this autumn , will continue to be exempt from fees for the duration of their course .
Speaking in Holyrood this afternoon , Mr Lochhead said the money saved will go towards encouraging more Scottish students into university .
Overseas students attending university in Scotland currently have to pay fees ranging from £9,000 to more than £31,000 per year .
Figures show that more than 21,500 EU students studied at Scottish universities in the 2018/19 academic year , with 15,300 students receiving government funding while the cost of providing funded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Mr Lochhead said in Holyrood this afternoon : `` It 's with a heavy heart that we have taken a difficult decision to end free education for new EU students from the academic year 2021-2022 onwards , as a direct consequence of Brexit . ''
Mr Lochhead said the Government from the money it saves will also seek to create an `` ambitious scholarship programme to ensure the ancient European nation of Scotland continues to attract significant numbers of European students to study here '' .
Although he argued the higher education @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
However , Jamie Greene MSP , Scottish Conservative education spokesman , warned universities face `` deep , cutting financial problems '' and an estimated `` black hole of around half a billion pounds '' .
Meanwhile , his Labour counterpart Iain Gray , added : “ It was welcome to hear [ Mr Lochhead ] pledge to keep the funding previously devoted to fees for EU students in the sector .
`` However , the failure to provide any new money to secure the future of colleges and universities was very disappointing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shamed : 600 Scottish schools not inspected for decades [ DATA ] Sturgeon red faced as Home Office rebuffs claim it was responsible [ REVEAL ] Nicola Sturgeon BEGS Boris for cash as Scottish economy faces crisis [ INSIGHT ] '' While UCAS figures indicate that international student applications are up , it 's not good enough for the Scottish government to cross their fingers and hope that they appear despite all the uncertainties around COVID-19 and a second wave of cases .
`` Without a contingency plan for our universities , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Professor Andrea Nolan , convener of Universities Scotland , said it is `` reassuring '' the money saved will remain in the sector .
Professor Nolan said it provided an opportunity `` to fully-fund the undergraduate education of Scottish students and shift the public funding of degree places on to solid ground for the first time in years '' .

Nicola Sturgeon's EU plans are 'not on the cards' says Habib
Richard Lochhead MSP, Scotland’s higher education minister said the SNP led administration would save £19million a year. It comes after SNP MSP Alex Neil said the country could no longer afford the subsidy for “rich EU kids” at the “expense of our own kids.”
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Currently, EU law states the government’s free tuition fee policy for Scots requires EU students to be treated the same. But after the Brexit transition period, the Scottish Government will no longer be obliged to cover the cost for students from EU nations. However, students already in university, or starting this autumn, will continue to be exempt from fees for the duration of their course. Speaking in Holyrood this afternoon, Mr Lochhead said the money saved will go towards encouraging more Scottish students into university.
Scottish Universities will charge EU students from next year.
EU students are currently funded in Scotland.
Overseas students attending university in Scotland currently have to pay fees ranging from £9,000 to more than £31,000 per year. Figures show that more than 21,500 EU students studied at Scottish universities in the 2018/19 academic year, with 15,300 students receiving government funding while the cost of providing funded places to EU students was around £97m. Mr Lochhead said in Holyrood this afternoon: "It's with a heavy heart that we have taken a difficult decision to end free education for new EU students from the academic year 2021-2022 onwards, as a direct consequence of Brexit." Mr Lochhead said the Government from the money it saves will also seek to create an "ambitious scholarship programme to ensure the ancient European nation of Scotland continues to attract significant numbers of European students to study here". READ MORE: Sturgeon humiliated: Rees-Mogg says independent Scotland bankrupt
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Edinburgh Napier University.
Scots currently don't pay university fees.
"While UCAS figures indicate that international student applications are up, it's not good enough for the Scottish government to cross their fingers and hope that they appear despite all the uncertainties around COVID-19 and a second wave of cases. "Without a contingency plan for our universities, it leaves yet more uncertainty for the sector." Professor Andrea Nolan, convener of Universities Scotland, said it is "reassuring" the money saved will remain in the sector. Professor Nolan said it provided an opportunity "to fully-fund the undergraduate education of Scottish students and shift the public funding of degree places on to solid ground for the first time in years".
The new changes will come into effect from 2021.