thedailyexpress--2020-12-06--Marr mocks Boris for agreeing more talks - 'We had oven-ready deal - was oven unplugged?'

UK and EU negotiators have resumed talks in Brussels in a `` final throw of the dice '' as they try to secure a post-Brexit trade deal .
Their return to the negotiating table follows an hour-long call on Saturday between Boris Johnson and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen , in which they agreed on a final push to get an agreement .
As he grilled Environment Secretary George Eustice on the latest developments , BBC One host Andrew Marr mocked the Prime Minister 's over his famous election pledge of an `` over-ready Brexit deal '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the oven-ready deal .
Has someone unplugged the oven ? ''
Mr Eustice attempted to defend the Prime Minister and his Government 's Brexit position as he argued the oven-ready deal was in fact the withdrawal agreement signed with Brussels at the end of the first phase of the negotiations .
The Tory MP said negotiations on a post-Brexit free trade deal are now entering the `` final few days '' which will determine whether there can be an agreement .
Mr Eustice , however , hinted there would be a further extension @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fundamental divergences '' which existed could be overcome .
`` I think we probably are now in the final few days in terms of deciding whether there can be an agreement , '' he told Marr .
READ MORE : Johnson hoping Merkel 'will step in ' in last-minute bid to save Brexit '' Of course if the ambience warms up again and actually great progress is made and it is just about sorting out the detail , then you can always find more time , you can always extend .
`` But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quite fundamental divergences at the moment then we are going to have to take a position in the next few days . ''
He also acknowledged there will be `` some impact '' on food prices if the UK fails to get a trade deal with the EU .
`` There will be some impact on prices but the analysis that has been done by some of the economic modellers is that it is quite modest - less than 2 percent as a result of tariffs , '' he added .
`` It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as beef and pork but those make up a relatively small proportion of the overall family shop . ''
In a joint statement following their call , Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen acknowledged `` significant differences '' remained on the key issues of fishing rights , competition rules and the governance arrangements for any deal .
`` Both sides underlined that no agreement is feasible if these issues are not resolved , '' they said .
`` Whilst recognising the seriousness of these differences , we agreed that a further effort @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to assess whether they can be resolved .
`` We are therefore instructing our chief negotiators to reconvene tomorrow in Brussels .
We will speak again on Monday evening . ''
The call took place after Mr Barnier and Lord Frost announced on Friday that they were putting the talks on `` pause '' after the latest round of negotiations failed to achieve breakthrough .
DO N'T MISS : Labour MP refuses to rule out party abstention on Brexit deal [ VIDEO ] No deal ready !
Boris has total support for no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's ludicrous ! '
George Eustice ridicules EU 's latest fishing offer [ INTERVIEW ]

Brexit: Marr jokes about Boris Johnson’s ‘oven ready deal’
UK and EU negotiators have resumed talks in Brussels in a "final throw of the dice" as they try to secure a post-Brexit trade deal. Their return to the negotiating table follows an hour-long call on Saturday between Boris Johnson and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen, in which they agreed on a final push to get an agreement. As he grilled Environment Secretary George Eustice on the latest developments, BBC One host Andrew Marr mocked the Prime Minister's over his famous election pledge of an "oven-ready Brexit deal".
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He said: "So much for the oven-ready deal. Has someone unplugged the oven?" Mr Eustice attempted to defend the Prime Minister and his Government's Brexit position as he argued the oven-ready deal was in fact the withdrawal agreement signed with Brussels at the end of the first phase of the negotiations. The Tory MP said negotiations on a post-Brexit free trade deal are now entering the "final few days" which will determine whether there can be an agreement. Mr Eustice, however, hinted there would be a further extension to finalise the details if the "fundamental divergences" which existed could be overcome. "I think we probably are now in the final few days in terms of deciding whether there can be an agreement," he told Marr. READ MORE: Johnson hoping Merkel 'will step in' in last-minute bid to save Brexit
BBC's Andrew Marr joked: 'Has someone unplugged the oven?'
Brexit news: George Eustice says there are 'fundamental divergences' with the EU
"Of course if the ambiance warms up again and actually great progress is made and it is just about sorting out the detail, then you can always find more time, you can always extend. "But I think unless we can resolve these quite fundamental divergences at the moment then we are going to have to take a position in the next few days." He also acknowledged there will food prices could be affected if the UK fails to get a trade deal with the EU. "There will be some impact on prices but the analysis that has been done by some of the economic modellers is that it is quite modest - less than 2 percent as a result of tariffs," he added. "It would be higher on some things such as beef and pork but those make up a relatively small proportion of the overall family shop."
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Brexit: Andrew Marr grills Rachel Reeves on Labour’s position
In a joint statement following their call, Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen acknowledged "significant differences" remained on the key issues of fishing rights, competition rules and the governance arrangements for any deal. "Both sides underlined that no agreement is feasible if these issues are not resolved," they said. "Whilst recognising the seriousness of these differences, we agreed that a further effort should be undertaken by our negotiating teams to assess whether they can be resolved. "We are therefore instructing our chief negotiators to reconvene tomorrow in Brussels. We will speak again on Monday evening." The call took place after Mr Barnier and Lord Frost announced on Friday that they were putting the talks on "pause" after the latest round of negotiations failed to achieve breakthrough. DON'T MISS:
Labour MP refuses to rule out party abstention on Brexit deal [VIDEO]
No deal ready! Boris has total support for no deal in Cabinet [INSIGHT]
'It's ludicrous!' George Eustice ridicules EU's latest fishing offer [INTERVIEW]
Brexit news: David Frost has arrived in Brussels to resume talks with Michel Barnier


thedailyexpress--2020-12-06--Labour accused of pushing Boris to surrender to EU 'at final hour' in BBC Andrew Marr row

Andrew Marr claimed that Labour was pushing Boris Johnson to surrender to the EU on key Brexit red lines .
The BBC host accused Shadow Cabinet Office minister Rachel Reeves of wanting Boris Johnson `` to fold at the final hour '' .
This comes as the last-ditch talks resume in Brussels today , in what British sources describe as a `` final throw of the dice '' .
Mr Marr said : `` You 've said 'the British people were promised a deal and with time running out we urge both sides to get on with reaching agreement ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a deal at any cost . ''
Ms Reeves responded : `` We want a deal , that 's what the British people were promised less than a year ago . ''
The BBC host fired back : `` But to get the deal that you want the Government clearly have to move on fishing . ''
JUST IN : 'That 's not independence ! '
BBC 's Andrew Marr slams French MP over fish He continued : `` The fishing industry have said that anything given away now will not be regained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positions on fishing and the level-playing field ? ''
The Labour shadow minister said : `` On fishing , we do want access to the fish in our waters , but we also want to be able to sell the fish to the EU .
`` More than 80 percent of what I caught in our waters is exported to th European market .
EU countries Its essential we can catch that fish but also sell it to markets . ''
Mr Marr intervened : `` So the Government have said they wo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ message to Boris Johnson at this final hour - fold ? ''
Ms Reeves said : “ My message to Boris Johnson is that you made a promise to the British people to get Brexit done .
You said you had an oven-ready deal .
Well , get on and deliver it . ''
The Labour MP was repeatedly pressed about her party 's position on whether they would vote for the Brexit deal , to which she replied the party wanted to see the content of any deal .
Labour backlash : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Starmer [ VIDEO ] 'It 's ludicrous ! '
George Eustice ridicules EU 's latest fishing offer [ INTERVIEW ] Brexit poll : Would you support an extension to transition period ?
[ POLL ]

Brexit: Andrew Marr grills Rachel Reeves on Labour’s position
Andrew Marr claimed that Labour was pushing Boris Johnson to surrender to the EU on key Brexit red lines. The BBC host accused Shadow Cabinet Office minister Rachel Reeves of wanting Boris Johnson "to fold at the final hour". This comes as the last-ditch talks resume in Brussels today, in what British sources describe as a "final throw of the dice".
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Mr Marr said: "You've said 'the British people were promised a deal and with time running out we urge both sides to get on with reaching agreement'. "That sounds like you favour a deal at any cost." Ms Reeves responded: "We want a deal, that's what the British people were promised less than a year ago." The BBC host fired back: "But to get the deal that you want the Government clearly have to move on fishing." JUST IN: 'That's not independence!' BBC's Andrew Marr slams French MP over fish
Andrew Marr claimed that Labour was pushing Boris Johnson to surrender to the EU
Reeves was repeatedly pressed about Labour's position on whether they would vote for the Brexit deal
He continued: "The fishing industry have said that anything given away now will not be regained. "Will Labour support giving away positions on fishing and the level-playing field?" The Labour shadow minister said: "On fishing, we do want access to the fish in our waters, but we also want to be able to sell the fish to the EU. "More than 80 percent of what I caught in our waters is exported to th European market. EU countries it's essential we can catch that fish but also sell it to markets."
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Brexit: Marr jokes about Boris Johnson’s ‘oven ready deal’
The BBC host accused Shadow Cabinet Office minister Rachel Reeves of wanting Boris Johnson 'to fold'
The BBC host suggested Sir Keir Starmer wanted Boris Johnson 'to fold' to Brussels


thedailyexpress--2020-12-06--'That's not independence!' BBC's Andrew Marr slams French MP over EU's last-minute demands

BBC 's Andrew Marr called out the EU 's last-minute demands in the Brexit talks this week for trying to scupper Britain 's `` freedom and independence '' .
He grilled a leading French MP Alexandra Holroyd , who is also a strong ally of Emmanuel Macron , on the latest demands from the EU .
Mr Marr claimed that the EU 's latest fishing demand for 10 years of free access to British waters was `` taking the Mickey '' .
Mr Marr said : `` The EU has hardened its negotiating position at the last minute and that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Holroyd dismissed this , claiming the EU has held the `` same position for the last four years , '' the BBC host fired back .
He said : `` Let 's look at fishing .
Britain is regaining her independence as an independent coastal state , and that includes independence and authority over her own costal waters .
`` So when the EU says they want access for the next ten years , to many people in Britain that looks like taking the Mickey , frankly . ''
JUST IN : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in last-minute bid to save Brexit

Brexit: Andrew Marr says fishing demands don’t give ‘real freedom’
The BBC's Andrew Marr called out the EU's last-minute demands in the Brexit talks last week for trying to scupper Britain's "freedom and independence". He grilled a leading French MP Alexandra Holroyd, who is also a strong ally of Emmanuel Macron, on the latest demands from the EU. Mr Marr claimed that the EU's latest fishing demand for 10 years of free access to British waters was "taking the Mickey".
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Mr Marr said: "The EU has hardened its negotiating position at the last minute and that is not fair dealing." When Mr Holroyd dismissed this, claiming the EU has held the "same position for the last four years," the BBC host fired back. He said: "Let's look at fishing. Britain is regaining her independence as an independent coastal state, and that includes independence and authority over her own costal waters. "So when the EU says they want access for the next ten years, to many people in Britain that looks like taking the Mickey, frankly." JUST IN: Johnson hoping Merkel 'will step in' in last-minute bid to save Brexit
Marr grilled a leading French MP Alexandra Holroyd, who is also a strong ally of Emmanuel Macron
Holroyd reiterated the claim that France has 'the right to veto' any proposed UK-EU trade deal
The French MP responded by claiming that the EU would cut off market access to British fishermen if French fishermen were banned from Britain's waters. He said: "Britain is gaining its full sovereignty over its fishing waters and the EU is regaining its full sovereignty over who has access to its markets. "European fishermen fish a lot in British waters, but most fish fished by British fishermen are sold in the European common market." Mr Marr said: "But if Britain leaves but then has to follow EU regulations in any directions forever after, that's not real freedom is it? "That's not authority, that's not independence."
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Brexit: Johnson hoping Merkel will ‘step in’ says Gordon Brown
Marr claimed the EU's last-minute demands would scupper Britain's 'independence'
The En Marche MP and ally of the French President claimed: "Britain has its full independence to make its decision, to sign or not sign a deal." Mr Holroyd reiterated the claim that France has "the right to veto" any proposed UK-EU trade deal if it doesn’t like what has been agreed. Mr Marr suggested that the EU had a "big miscalculation" when they predicted that Boris Johnson would "buckle" under no deal pressure. DON'T MISS: Labour backlash: Gary Neville and Sophy Ridge savage Keir Starmer [VIDEO]
'It's ludicrous!' George Eustice ridicules EU's latest fishing offer [INTERVIEW]
Brexit poll: Would you support an extension to transition period? [POLL]
Macron has repeatedly threatened to block any deal with Britain that sees France lose out on fishing rights


thedailyexpress--2020-12-06--'Economy not your strong suit?' Andrew Neil points out SNP supporter's critical indy error

The issue of currency has been at the heart of the Scottish independence argument for years - with the SNP as of yet unable to give clear guidance on how they intend to leave the UK without sparking economic turmoil .
This week , Dr Tim Rideout , convenor of the Scottish Currency Group and now a member of the SNP ’ s Development Committee , once again spoke of the need for a Scottish Pound .
Challenged on social media , Dr Rideout claimed any currency would not change the overall spend of an average customer from day-to-day .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a meal at a restaurant would continue to be valued at the same as the pound sterling the day after the creation of the new currency .
In response on Twitter , Neil quickly defeated the claim , he said : “ Economics not your strong point , is it ?
“ If Scottish pound floats down every imported product restaurant sells , from wine to Danish bacon , will rise in price .
“ To stop the Scottish pound plummeting , interest rates would rise , so business costs up all round @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get you more than a burger.
” Following his retort , independence activists were quick to insist on the ease of establishing a new currency .
Neil , however , claimed the SNP needs to be clear over the consequences of establishing the Scottish pound .
He also highlighted how Scotland may need to take on the Euro if it were to join the bloc .
JUST IN : Brexit LIVE : 48 hours to no deal !
Talks to collapse tomorrow unless EU If Scotland were to use the pound , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ policy of the currency .
Previously the party had stated an approach to use the pound without a formal currency union .
Panama does this with the US dollar as has Montenegro with its use of the euro .
Ms Sturgeon is calling for a second independence vote next year following the Holyrood elections in May .
During the party ’ s annual conference last month , Ms Sturgeon stated it had “ never been so certain ” the country will break away from the Union .
Although Boris Johnson has so far @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now suggesting a majority of Scots are now in favour of leaving the UK .
She said : “ Scotland is now a nation on the cusp of making history .
`` Independence is in clear sight – and with unity of purpose , humility and hard work I have never been so certain that we will deliver it .

Nicola Sturgeon tells EU 'we will return as an independent state'
The issue of currency has been at the heart of the Scottish independence argument for years - with the SNP as of yet unable to give clear guidance on how they intend to leave the UK without sparking economic turmoil. This week, Dr Tim Rideout, convenor of the Scottish Currency Group and now a member of the SNP’s Development Committee, once again spoke of the need for a Scottish Pound. Challenged on social media, Dr Rideout claimed any currency would not change the overall spend of an average customer from day-to-day.
Trending
In a specific example, he claimed a meal at a restaurant would continue to be valued at the same as the pound sterling the day after the creation of the new currency. In response on Twitter, Neil quickly defeated the claim, he said: “Economics not your strong point, is it? “If Scottish pound floats down every imported product restaurant sells, from wine to Danish bacon, will rise in price. “To stop the Scottish pound plummeting, interest rates would rise, so business costs up all round.
Nicola Sturgeon: Andrew Neil savages SNP claim
Nicola Sturgeon: The first vote was held in 2014
“Very soon S£30 might not get you more than a burger.” Following his retort, independence activists were quick to insist on the ease of establishing a new currency. Neil, however, claimed the SNP needs to be clear over the consequences of establishing the Scottish pound. He also highlighted how Scotland may need to take on the Euro if it were to join the bloc. JUST IN: Brexit LIVE: 48 hours to no deal! Talks to collapse tomorrow unless EU
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Nicola Sturgeon: Boris Johnson has refused the claim
Nicola Sturgeon: The First Minister made the announcement last month
Nicola Sturgeon: The 'no' won in 2014
If Scotland were to use the pound, the Bank of England would set the monetary policy of the currency. Previously the party had stated an approach to use the pound without a formal currency union. Panama does this with the US dollar as has Montenegro with its use of the euro. Ms Sturgeon is calling for a second independence vote next year following the Holyrood elections in May.
Scottish independence polling
During the party’s annual conference last month, Ms Sturgeon stated it had “never been so certain” the country will break away from the Union. Although Boris Johnson has so far refused any independence vote, polls are now suggesting a majority of Scots are now in favour of leaving the UK. She said: “Scotland is now a nation on the cusp of making history. "Independence is in clear sight – and with unity of purpose, humility and hard work I have never been so certain that we will deliver it.
Nicola Sturgeon: Ms Sturgeon claimed she will bring an independence vote next year


thedailyexpress--2020-12-06--Gordon Brown blasts 'out of touch' Sturgeon as he predicts SNP to lose indyref2 battle

The former Labour Prime Minister said unionists would win a second Scottish independence referendum , should Boris Johnson allow Nicola Sturgeon to put a vote before Scottish voters in 2021 .
But Mr Brown admitted it would be a `` hard battle '' between the SNP and the rest of the country given how `` fed up '' and `` frustrated '' people have grown with the Tories ' treatment of devolved administrations .
He told Sky News ' Sophy Ridge : “ An election in May , the SNP want the referendum in 2021 , we ’ ve got @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is rising , we ’ ve got to vaccinate people in Scotland and perhaps a second round , we don ’ t know whether there ’ s going to be a third or fourth wave of this disease .
“ The idea you can have a referendum during the first 12 months of the next year seems to me quite unrealistic .
“ And it ’ s a sign that the nationalists are really out of touch with the priorities of Scottish people.
” On Thursday , the Scottish First Minister told MSPs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sure Scotland 's coronavirus vaccination programme is rolled out successfully .
Ms Sturgeon said both she and Health Secretary Jeane Freeman are focused on the programme , along with the `` entire Government '' .
READ MORE : Sturgeon taunted as completely 'out of touch ' with Scottish people The first coronavirus vaccinations in Scotland are due to be administered next Tuesday .
Talks are ongoing about whether supplies of the vaccine will be able to be taken into care homes , but the First Minister said she hopes that `` will become @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arisen because the vaccine needs to be stored at ultra-low temperatures , and the Scottish Government has purchased 23 special freezers which provide the correct conditions .
The freezers will be placed in `` vaccine deployment centres '' in every health board area in Scotland , and Ms Sturgeon said the first vaccinations will take place in `` close '' proximity to these sites .
Elderly care home residents are among the highest priority groups to have the vaccine , and the First Minister said she hopes difficulties around getting the injections to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Health Secretary Jeane Freeman confirmed the arrival of the Pfizer and BioNTech vaccine ahead of its rollout .
She said the vaccine , which has to be kept at between minus 70C and minus 80C , is being stored before vaccinations begin next week .
Those giving out the vaccine , people aged over 80 and health and social care workers will be the first to receive it .
Scotland will receive 8.2 percent of the 800,000 doses - just over 65,500 - in the first delivery secured by the UK , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Ms Freeman said : `` I am pleased to announce that the vaccine is now in Scotland and being stored safely in order for vaccinations to begin on Tuesday .
`` Science has given us hope and we are starting on a journey which will eventually allow us to escape this terrible virus .
`` Following clinical advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation , we will begin with those groups which have been prioritised to address 99 % of preventable deaths associated with Covid-19 .
DO N'T MISS : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'take away human rights ' [ REACTION ] Sturgeon 'playing politics ' with Covid after squandering £8.2BN [ INSIGHT ] Sturgeon warned 'EU will turn Scotland away ' without euro [ ANALYSIS ]

Gordon Brown: Independence calls from SNP are ‘out of touch’
The former Labour Prime Minister said unionists would win a second Scottish independence referendum, should Boris Johnson allow Nicola Sturgeon to put a vote before Scottish voters in 2021. But Mr Brown admitted it would be a "hard battle" between the SNP and the rest of the country given how "fed up" and "frustrated" people have grown with the Tories' treatment of devolved administrations.
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He told Sky News' Sophy Ridge: “An election in May, the SNP want the referendum in 2021, we’ve got to deal with the recession, unemployment is rising, we’ve got to vaccinate people in Scotland and perhaps a second round, we don’t know whether there’s going to be a third or fourth wave of this disease. “The idea you can have a referendum during the first 12 months of the next year seems to me quite unrealistic. “And it’s a sign that the nationalists are really out of touch with the priorities of Scottish people.” On Thursday, the Scottish First Minister told MSPs no issue is more important than making sure Scotland's coronavirus vaccination programme is rolled out successfully. Ms Sturgeon said both she and Health Secretary Jeane Freeman are focused on the programme, along with the "entire Government". READ MORE: Sturgeon taunted as completely 'out of touch' with Scottish people
Gordon Brown says Nicola Sturgeon would lose second independence referendum
Nicola Sturgeon said she wants a second referendum on independence as soon as 2021
The first coronavirus vaccinations in Scotland are due to be administered next Tuesday. Talks are ongoing about whether supplies of the vaccine will be able to be taken into care homes, but the First Minister said she hopes that "will become possible very soon". Difficulties have arisen because the vaccine needs to be stored at ultra-low temperatures, and the Scottish Government has purchased 23 special freezers which provide the correct conditions. The freezers will be placed in "vaccine deployment centres" in every health board area in Scotland, and Ms Sturgeon said the first vaccinations will take place in "close" proximity to these sites. Elderly care home residents are among the highest priority groups to have the vaccine, and the First Minister said she hopes difficulties around getting the injections to them can be resolved. On Saturday, Health Secretary Jeane Freeman confirmed the arrival of the Pfizer and BioNTech vaccine ahead of its rollout.
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Nicola Sturgeon slammed over 'care home blow' with vaccine
She said the vaccine, which has to be kept at between minus 70C and minus 80C, is being stored before vaccinations begin next week. Those giving out the vaccine, people aged over 80 and health and social care workers will be the first to receive it. Scotland will receive 8.2 percent of the 800,000 doses - just over 65,500 - in the first delivery secured by the UK, with more expected in the weeks ahead. Ms Freeman said: "I am pleased to announce that the vaccine is now in Scotland and being stored safely in order for vaccinations to begin on Tuesday. "Science has given us hope and we are starting on a journey which will eventually allow us to escape this terrible virus. "Following clinical advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation, we will begin with those groups which have been prioritised to address 99% of preventable deaths associated with Covid-19. DON'T MISS:
SNP bid to break up UK would 'take away human rights' [REACTION]
Sturgeon 'playing politics' with Covid after squandering £8.2BN [INSIGHT]
Sturgeon warned 'EU will turn Scotland away' without euro [ANALYSIS]
Coronavirus vaccine: UK priority list


thedailyexpress--2020-12-06--'It's ludicrous!' Eustice erupts at EU fishing demands 'going against international law'

George Eustice has attacked the EU 's latest fishing offer in the Brexit talks as `` ludicrous '' .
The Environment Secretary told Sky News ' Sophy Ridge that the offer was `` just not right '' after the the EU proposed a `` very modest increase '' on its return of fish to the UK .
Last week , it was reported that the EU had offered to return just 18 percent of their current catch in British waters to the UK after the Brexit transition period ends .
The UK rejected this offer outright and later dismissed it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Eustice told Ms Ridge that the EU were demanding a long-term access agreement to British waters , something that the UK deemed `` not possible '' given British demands to control its own waters .
He explained : `` It 's just not right under international law .
`` We would be the only country in the entire world that would agree to that . ''
JUST IN : Brexit poll : Would you support an extension to transition period ?
He continued : '' Such a suggestion is really quite ludicrous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The EU want the same privileges they have now but that simply is n't possible . ''
When pressed about the 18 percent offer from the EU , Mr Eustice responded : `` Broadly speaking , the EU have suggested a very modest increase that they would give back . ''
The cabinet minister suggested that the UK wanted a three year deal on fishing quotas .
He also hit out at the `` dismal failure '' of the EU 's Common Fisheries Policy that had devastated the British fishing industry .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a post-Brexit trade deal with the EU are in a `` very difficult position '' .
He blamed the EU for throwing the talks into chaos after introducing `` a whole load of additional demands '' late in the negotiations this week .
Sir John Redwood condemns 'insulting ' EU fishing offer [ VIDEO ] BBC Weather : Snow to blanket parts of UK in 48-hour temperature freeze [ FORECAST ] 'You do n't own it ! '
Meghan and Harry told Eugenie should not pay rent [ POLL ]

Brexit: George Eustice calls EU fishing demands ‘ludicrous’
George Eustice has attacked the EU's latest fishing offer in the Brexit talks as "ludicrous". The Environment Secretary told Sky News' Sophy Ridge that the offer was "just not right" after the the EU proposed a "very modest increase" on its return of fish to the UK. Last week, it was reported that the EU had offered to return just 18 percent of their current catch in British waters to the UK after the Brexit transition period ends.
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The UK rejected this offer outright and later dismissed it as "derisory and unacceptable". Mr Eustice told Ms Ridge that the EU were demanding a long-term access agreement to British waters, something that the UK deemed "not possible" given British demands to control its own waters. He explained: "It's just not right under international law. "We would be the only country in the entire world that would agree to that." JUST IN: Brexit poll: Would you support an extension to transition period?
George Eustice has attacked the EU's latest fishing offer in the Brexit talks as 'ludicrous'
This comes after a dramatic hour-long phone call between Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen
He continued:"Such a suggestion is really quite ludicrous and not consistent with international law. "The EU want the same privileges they have now but that simply isn't possible." When pressed about the 18 percent offer from the EU, Mr Eustice responded: "Broadly speaking, the EU have suggested a very modest increase that they would give back." The cabinet minister suggested that the UK wanted a three year deal on fishing quotas.
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The cabinet minister suggested that the UK wanted a three year deal on fishing quotas
Brexit: BBC host quizzes guest on ‘over the top fishing pleas’
Eustice admitted that the talks on a post-Brexit trade deal with the EU are in a 'very difficult position'


thedailyexpress--2020-12-06--Brexit LIVE: Time to call UK's bluff! Ireland hits out at Boris bill despite EU ultimatum

Mr Coveney was responding to the UK Government ’ s plans to press ahead with legislation that would break an earlier Brexit deal agreed with the EU .
The House of Lords voted to remove clauses in the Internal Market Bill , which broke international law , but the Government insists on reinstating them in the Commons on Monday .
The comments by the Irish politician come as Lord Frost arrived in Brussels for last ditch talks with the EU .
Mr Johnson has given his negotiating team just 48 hours to secure a deal with the EU , or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no deal exit .
If a deal is not agreed by the end of the deadline , the talks are set to collapse .
A UK source close to the negotiations said : `` This is the final throw of the dice .
There is a fair deal to be done that works for both sides , but this will only happen if the EU is willing to respect the fundamental principles of sovereignty and control . ''
Yesterday , Mr Johnson and Mrs Von der Leyen warned “ significant differences ” remained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ governance arrangements for any deal .
They said : `` Both sides underlined that no agreement is feasible if these issues are not resolved .
Whilst recognising the seriousness of these differences , we agreed that a further effort should be undertaken by our negotiating teams to assess whether they can be resolved .
`` We are therefore instructing our chief negotiators to reconvene tomorrow in Brussels .
We will speak again on Monday evening . ''
If the two sides fail to reach an agreement , the UK will leave the European @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 31 and begin trading with the bloc on World Trade Organisation terms , with the imposition of tariffs and quotas .
1.30pm update : Irish minister confident ‘ there is a deal to be done ’ Simon Harris , Ireland 's Minister for Further and Higher Education , has said there is still hope a post-Brexit trade deal will be reached in the coming days .
He said : This is a crucial week and I know people will roll their eyes when they hear 'another crucial week in Brexit ' , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fact that two leaders this week , ( European Commission ) President ( Ursula ) von der Leyen and Prime Minister ( Boris ) Johnson , mandated their teams to go back in to talk today is an encouraging sign .
`` It is good to keep talking , it is important to keep talking , but in many ways the difficult issues have been the same difficult issues from the start - it 's about fair competition and fisheries .
`` It ca n't be seen about fisheries in isolation , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that if Britain wants access to lots of EU markets it 's entirely appropriate that EU would have access to British fishing waters while respecting British sovereignty . ''
He added : `` Whilst I do n't think we can be in any way complacent , I think there is a deal there to be done if there is willingness from both sides to do a deal.
” 12.48pm update : Marr mocks Boris for agreeing more talks - 'We had oven-ready deal - was oven unplugged ? '
BBC host Andrew Marr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to resume talks with Brussels after a phone call with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen .
UK and EU negotiators have resumed talks in Brussels in a `` final throw of the dice '' as they try to secure a post-Brexit trade deal .
As he grilled Environment Secretary George Eustice on the latest developments , BBC One host Andrew Marr mocked the Prime Minister 's over his famous election pledge of an `` over-ready Brexit deal '' .
He said : `` So much for the oven-ready deal .
Has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Eustice attempted to defend the Prime Minister and his Government 's Brexit position as he argued the oven-ready deal was in fact the withdrawal agreement signed with Brussels at the end of the first phase of the negotiations .
The Tory MP said negotiations on a post-Brexit free trade deal are now entering the `` final few days '' which will determine whether there can be an agreement .
Unite general secretary Len McCluskey said a Brexit deal needs to be delivered by Boris Johnson but warned Labour against abstaining during any parliamentary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Keir Starmer needs to `` win the trust of the red wall seats '' and those who voted leave at the 2016 referendum , and be seen `` not to be standing in the way '' of what people supported at the 2019 election .
Mr McCluskey told Times Radio : `` On the other hand if it 's a thin deal , which I suspect it will be , if indeed we get a deal , he needs to also be in a position in six months if things are going wrong @ @ @ @ @ @ @ without then being regarded a hypocrite because he voted for the deal . ''
He said he expects a deal to go through Parliament , adding : `` Frankly , Labour need - on the most important issue of the day - not to be seen to be sitting on the fence .
`` The idea of an abstention , to me , would be completely wrong .
I hope they 've learnt the lesson back in December that any confusion over this will be damaging to them . ''
Lord Frost has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the EU on a post-Brexit trade deal .
While walking through the train station , he told reporters : “ We will be looking forward to meeting with our European colleagues later this afternoon.
” 10.47am update : Gordon Brown warns UK will face ‘ economic war ’ if he fails to secure Brexit deal The UK will face an `` economic war '' with Europe and America if Boris Johnson fails to negotiate a Brexit deal , Gordon Brown has warned .
The former prime minister said Mr Johnson 's confrontational @ @ @ @ @ @ @ isolated prime minister in peacetime history '' in the event of a no-deal Brexit .
Warning of `` huge international implications '' if no agreement is reached , Mr Brown said : `` We would be in an economic war with Europe that would cost us very dearly .
`` Food , drugs and everything else would find it difficult to get into the country without tariffs and without holdups .
`` But we 'd also be in an economic war with America because there 'd be no chance of a trade treaty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is going to end up as the most isolated Prime Minister in peacetime history , with no friends around the world .
`` Because he has simply chosen a path of confrontation when everybody knows that it 's in Britain 's economic interests - maybe not in the Brexiteers ' ideological interest - but it 's in Britain 's economic interest to get a deal and to get a deal now . ''
10.15am update : Labour ’ s Rachel Reeves urges Boris to ‘ get on and deliver ’ a Brexit deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` Government sources overnight are saying it 's the last throw of the dice - I just say to the Prime Minister , this is not a game of snakes and ladders .
`` This is about people 's jobs , about people 's livelihoods , the Government has got to deliver on the promises they have made and we will hold them to it . ''
Ms Reeves said Boris Johnson should `` get on and deliver '' on his promises of a Brexit deal to enable the country to `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comments on BBC ’ s Andrew Marr Show this morning .
Ms Reeves was repeatedly pressed about Labour 's position , to which she replied the Opposition wanted to see the content of any deal .
9.28am update : No deal ready !
Boris has total support for no deal in Cabinet Cabinet ministers have urged Boris Johnson to get Brexit done and have given their `` rock-solid '' support for a no deal - as a rebellion brews over any attempt to delay the EU exit again .
A senior figure in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal were “ no better than 50-50 ” despite more than four years and five months of negotiations .
But cabinet ministers - even those who backed remain - have urged the Prime Minister hold strong and refuse to “ mirror ” EU rules when the transition period ends .
A remain-voting Cabinet member said : “ Just get it done .
The PM should do what is best .
He has total , 100 percent rock-solid cabinet support.
” Another added , while they would prefer a deal , Britain can not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Environment Secretary George Eustice has said the Brexit trade talks are `` in a very difficult position , there 's no point denying that ” .
He told Sky News progress was being made but the EU ’ s additional demands have caused a “ setback ” .
The minister said the UK was prepared to make some agreements on the level playing field , but not on the Government ’ s ability to make its own laws .
When discussing fishing rights , he said there could be a “ multi-year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to “ control access to our waters ” .
Mr Eustice said the UK has done a lot of preparations to leave without a deal in place and added Britain would be ready for a no deal .
8.33am update : Brexit poll : Would you support an extension to transition period in order to secure a deal Talks were suspended last week with Boris Johnson and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen holding a call on Saturday to discuss the state of play of negotiations .
The two will again hold @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reassess negotiations and potentially break the deadlock over a deal .
However , with little time remaining to agree a deal , the potential for the transition period being extended becomes a very real possibility if they want to avoid a no deal Brexit - as warned by Nigel Farage .
In light of that scenario , Express.co.uk is asking readers in our exclusive poll today : “ Would you support an extension to transition period in order to secure deal ?
” Vote in our poll HERE .
8.01am update : Ireland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney has said the negotiators need “ calm heads ” as they head into the final stages of the post-Brexit trade talks .
Writing in the Times , he said he is confidence a deal can still be done .
The politician also warned it is not credible for the UK Government to suggest they can manage a no deal Brexit scenario .

Brexit: David Frost says he is ‘working hard to get a deal’
Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney has told his EU colleagues not to be distracted by Boris Johnson’s “negotiating tactics”, as the politician suggests the UK’s plans to override parts of the Withdrawal Agreement may not go ahead. He told RTE radio: "The problem linked to those pieces of legislation may find a way of disappearing if we can get the negotiation agreed on the substance.” THIS BLOG HAS CL0OSED. CLICK HERE FOR LIVE UPDATES.
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Mr Coveney was responding to the UK Government’s plans to press ahead with legislation that would break an earlier Brexit deal agreed with the EU. The House of Lords voted to remove clauses in the Internal Market Bill, which broke international law, but the Government insists on reinstating them in the Commons on Monday. The comments by the Irish politician come as Lord Frost arrived in Brussels for last ditch talks with the EU. Mr Johnson has given his negotiating team just 48 hours to secure a deal with the EU, or talks will likely collapse resulting in a no deal exit. If a deal is not agreed by the end of the deadline, the talks are set to collapse.
Brexit news: Boris Johnson has given his negotiating team just 48 hours to secure a deal
A UK source close to the negotiations said: "This is the final throw of the dice. There is a fair deal to be done that works for both sides, but this will only happen if the EU is willing to respect the fundamental principles of sovereignty and control." Yesterday, Mr Johnson and Mrs Von der Leyen warned “significant differences” remained on fisheries, competition rules and the governance arrangements for any deal. They said: "Both sides underlined that no agreement is feasible if these issues are not resolved. Whilst recognising the seriousness of these differences, we agreed that a further effort should be undertaken by our negotiating teams to assess whether they can be resolved. "We are therefore instructing our chief negotiators to reconvene tomorrow in Brussels. We will speak again on Monday evening." If the two sides fail to reach an agreement, the UK will leave the European single market and customs union on December 31 and begin trading with the bloc on World Trade Organisation terms, with the imposition of tariffs and quotas. FOLLOW EXPRESS.CO.UK FOR LIVE UPDATES:
10.20pm update: Brexit chaos: UK rubbishes claim of 'major breakthrough' on fish with FIVE YEAR transition The EU and the UK have spent today resuming trade negotiations after Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen pushed for one last chance to reach a deal. It was claimed this evening the two sides have all but finalised terms on the level of access for EU boats to fish within the UK's 200-mile exclusive economic zone. However, Express.co.uk sources have rubbished this. EU sources claimed the plan would see a phasing in of new rules over a five to seven year period. But a UK Government source told this website: "There's been no breakthrough on fish. Nothing new has been achieved on this today." 9.03pm update: Major breakthrough on fishing rights brings Brexit deal close The EU and the UK have all but finalised terms on the level of access for EU boats to seas within the UK’s 200-mile exclusive economic zone, a major breakthrough in the Brexit negotiations on the rights of European fleets to fish in UK waters, the Guardian reported, citing EU sources. 8.03pm update: VDL aide accused of 'giving UK too much' sparking furious demands Barnier change course UK dealmaker Lord Frost arrived in the Belgian capital for “one last throw of the dice” with EU Brexit chief Michel Barnier. Arriving from London, the peer today said: “We’re going to be working very hard to get a deal. We’re going to see what happens in negotiations today and will be looking forward to meeting our European colleagues later this afternoon.” Senior Brussels sources were optimistic there is finally light at the end of the tunnel in the bitter wrangling over post-Brexit fishing rights and common standards.
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Brexit: Boris 'never properly read' WAB claims barrister
7.16pm update: UK trade deal 'definitely' not coming Sunday - EU official warns A new EU-UK trade agreement will “definitely” not come together on Sunday night, an official with the bloc said, adding that three most contentious issues remained unresolved. Some reports on Sunday afternoon said agreeing fishing quotas and access for EU vessels to UK waters from 2021 was almost done but the official said that was not the case. The person, who spoke under condition of anonymity, added that ways to settle future trade disputes and guarantee economic fair play for companies were also not yet settled. The head of the EU’s executive, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson are due to talk again on the phone on Monday afternoon to try get above the line a new partnership pact. 6.55pm update: Irish PM says Brexit talks on a knife edge - with chances of deal 50-50 Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin said that chances of reaching a Brexit trade deal were 50-50 and that talks were at a very difficult juncture. “My gut instinct is that it’s 50-50 right now and I don’t think one can be overly optimistic about a resolution emerging,” Martin told national broadcaster RTE, striking a more pessimistic tone than recent predictions where he said a deal could be reached in days. “My sense having spoken to some of the key principals here is that it is a very challenging issue to resolve, particularly around the level playing field ... Things are on a knife edge here and it is serious.” 6.12pm update: Boris Johnson must not be 'bullied' into allowing EU plot to 'target UK industries' David Davis told LBC that the European Union are playing an extraordinary one-way game during the negotiations over a post-Brexit trade agreement. He added that if the EU miscalculate and think they can bully the UK into accepting bad terms it will result in a no deal Brexit. Mr Davis said: "You have got a real demonstration of why this was seen as a tactical and strategic play by the Europeans. "This week the Europeans said we want the UK to be limited in terms of subsidies, but we do not want us to be limited. "That is an extraordinary one-way game, it is obviously designed for them to be able to target some of our industries. "We must not give them any rules to help them."
Brexit: David Davis urges Boris to 'not be bullied' by EU
4.50pm update: French fishermen's last minute plea as they warn of 'certain death' The EU demanded yesterday the UK offer 10 years of unfettered access to British fishing waters in an attempt to secure a deal. The Government responded with frustration as the deadlock shows no sign of breaking. The UK replied to the demand yesterday, with a senior Government source telling the Telegraph: "Their new offer was frankly laughable. They know we can't possibly accept it. It's ridiculous. If they think we will just cave in, they have made a massive miscalculation." The French Government led by Emmanuel Macron have also sought to defend their interests during the Brexit process, with one figure in Paris warning concessions won't be made and a deal could be vetoed by France. Mr Macron has vowed to fight for French fishermen, who have previously expressed concerns for their future if a no deal Brexit ends their access to UK waters. Boulogne-sur-Mer, a city where a key French fishing port is located, will be hit especially hard. It is home to many of these fishermen, and one warned they will have "no Plan-B" should Mr Johnson and Brussels fail to reach a deal. 3.45pm update: North Korean spies operating from heart of EU - warning as Kim sends agents to Europe Austria's capital Vienna is thought to be a centre of Kim Jong-un's intelligence operation in Europe. Western intelligence officials reported high-ranking North Korean officials and espionage agents had passed through Austria to conduct illegal procurement missions and intelligence operations. An annual intelligence report from Austria said North Korean “intelligence actors operate both in Austria and against Austrian interests”. The report said these operations were conducted through local business networks and allowed for access to the European Union and multinational organizations. According to a UN report, the Austrian capital's North Korean embassy is used for “illicit activities for generating illegal revenues". This is also true of North Korean embassies in other nations. 3.11pm update: Ursula Von der Leyen warns 'significant issues’ stand in way of Brexit deal The European Commission President held a phone call with Prime Minister Boris Johnson as they held crisis talks last night. She later said that no free trade agreement was “feasible” unless they could bridge long-standing gaps between outstanding issues on fisheries, governance and standards. Her words came as time is running out to secure a deal. This is because the Brexit transition period will end on December 31. Rachel Russell taking over from Emily Ferguson.
Brexit news: David Frost arrived in Brussels earlier today
2.46pm update: Boris sends warning to Macron as UK prepares Royal Navy fleet to enforce ban on EU boats Boris Johnson has sent a warning signal to Emmanuel Macron following the French President's last-minute fishing demands, as George Eustice announced that Royal Navy fisheries protection fleet has been increased to police British waters after Brexit. The Prime Minister has sent a warning to his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron after France threw the Brexit talks into chaos by hardening the EU's fishing demands at the last minute. In response, Environment Secretary George Eustice announced that the capacity of the Royal Navy fisheries protection fleet has been increased to police British waters. He said that this increase will "stop EU boats coming in to fish" amid in case an agreement is not reached with the EU. 2.08pm update: Ireland accuses Boris of pursuing 'negotiating tactics' Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney has told his EU colleagues not to be distracted by Boris Johnson’s “negotiating tactics”, as the politician suggests the UK’s plans to override parts of the Withdrawal Agreement may not go ahead. He told RTE radio: "The problem linked to those pieces of legislation may find a way of disappearing if we can get the negotiation agreed on the substance.” Mr Coveney was responding to the UK Government’s plans to press ahead with legislation that would break an earlier Brexit deal agreed with the EU.
Brexit news: How a trade deal will be signed off
1.30pm update: Irish minister confident ‘there is a deal to be done’ Simon Harris, Ireland's Minister for Further and Higher Education, has said there is still hope a post-Brexit trade deal will be reached in the coming days. He said: This is a crucial week and I know people will roll their eyes when they hear 'another crucial week in Brexit', but it really is… "I think the fact that two leaders this week, (European Commission) President (Ursula) von der Leyen and Prime Minister (Boris) Johnson, mandated their teams to go back in to talk today is an encouraging sign. "It is good to keep talking, it is important to keep talking, but in many ways the difficult issues have been the same difficult issues from the start - it's about fair competition and fisheries. "It can't be seen about fisheries in isolation, it's about the logical, fair rationale that if Britain wants access to lots of EU markets it's entirely appropriate that EU would have access to British fishing waters while respecting British sovereignty." He added: "Whilst I don't think we can be in any way complacent, I think there is a deal there to be done if there is willingness from both sides to do a deal.” 12.48pm update: Marr mocks Boris for agreeing more talks - 'We had oven-ready deal - was oven unplugged?' BBC host Andrew Marr brutally mocked Boris Johnson over his decision to resume talks with Brussels after a phone call with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. UK and EU negotiators have resumed talks in Brussels in a "final throw of the dice" as they try to secure a post-Brexit trade deal. As he grilled Environment Secretary George Eustice on the latest developments, BBC One host Andrew Marr mocked the Prime Minister's over his famous election pledge of an "over-ready Brexit deal". He said: "So much for the oven-ready deal. Has someone unplugged the oven?" Mr Eustice attempted to defend the Prime Minister and his Government's Brexit position as he argued the oven-ready deal was in fact the withdrawal agreement signed with Brussels at the end of the first phase of the negotiations. The Tory MP said negotiations on a post-Brexit free trade deal are now entering the "final few days" which will determine whether there can be an agreement. 12.14pm update: Unite union warns Labour against abstaining in Brexit vote Unite general secretary Len McCluskey said a Brexit deal needs to be delivered by Boris Johnson but warned Labour against abstaining during any parliamentary vote. He said Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer needs to "win the trust of the red wall seats" and those who voted leave at the 2016 referendum, and be seen "not to be standing in the way" of what people supported at the 2019 election. Mr McCluskey told Times Radio: "On the other hand if it's a thin deal, which I suspect it will be, if indeed we get a deal, he needs to also be in a position in six months if things are going wrong to be able to attack the Government without then being regarded a hypocrite because he voted for the deal." He said he expects a deal to go through Parliament, adding: "Frankly, Labour need - on the most important issue of the day - not to be seen to be sitting on the fence. "The idea of an abstention, to me, would be completely wrong. I hope they've learnt the lesson back in December that any confusion over this will be damaging to them."
Brexit news: Ursula von der Leyen delivered a statement on the ongoing Brexit negotiations yesterday
11.29am update: Lord Frost arrives in Brussels for 48 hour talks Lord Frost has arrived in Brussels for last ditch talks with the EU on a post-Brexit trade deal. While walking through the train station, he told reporters: “We will be looking forward to meeting with our European colleagues later this afternoon.” 10.47am update: Gordon Brown warns UK will face ‘economic war’ if he fails to secure Brexit deal The UK will face an "economic war" with Europe and America if Boris Johnson fails to negotiate a Brexit deal, Gordon Brown has warned. The former prime minister said Mr Johnson's confrontational approach will make him the "most isolated prime minister in peacetime history" in the event of a no-deal Brexit. Warning of "huge international implications" if no agreement is reached, Mr Brown said: "We would be in an economic war with Europe that would cost us very dearly. "Food, drugs and everything else would find it difficult to get into the country without tariffs and without holdups. "But we'd also be in an economic war with America because there'd be no chance of a trade treaty with America. "So Boris Johnson is going to end up as the most isolated Prime Minister in peacetime history, with no friends around the world. "Because he has simply chosen a path of confrontation when everybody knows that it's in Britain's economic interests - maybe not in the Brexiteers' ideological interest - but it's in Britain's economic interest to get a deal and to get a deal now." 10.15am update: Labour’s Rachel Reeves urges Boris to ‘get on and deliver’ a Brexit deal Shadow Cabinet Office minister Rachel Reeves said: "Government sources overnight are saying it's the last throw of the dice - I just say to the Prime Minister, this is not a game of snakes and ladders. "This is about people's jobs, about people's livelihoods, the Government has got to deliver on the promises they have made and we will hold them to it." Ms Reeves said Boris Johnson should "get on and deliver" on his promises of a Brexit deal to enable the country to "move on". She made the comments on BBC’s Andrew Marr Show this morning. Ms Reeves was repeatedly pressed about Labour's position, to which she replied the Opposition wanted to see the content of any deal. 9.28am update: No deal ready! Boris has total support for no deal in Cabinet Cabinet ministers have urged Boris Johnson to get Brexit done and have given their "rock-solid" support for a no deal - as a rebellion brews over any attempt to delay the EU exit again. A senior figure in No10 warned the chances of getting a deal were “no better than 50-50” despite more than four years and five months of negotiations. But cabinet ministers - even those who backed remain - have urged the Prime Minister hold strong and refuse to “mirror” EU rules when the transition period ends. A remain-voting Cabinet member said: “Just get it done. The PM should do what is best. He has total, 100 percent rock-solid cabinet support.” Another added, while they would prefer a deal, Britain cannot “sell out” on key issues.
Brexit news: Michel Barnier pictured leaving his hotel yesterday


thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--Brexit chaos: UK rubbishes claim of 'major breakthrough' on fish with FIVE YEAR transition

The EU and the UK have spent today resuming trade negotiations after Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen pushed for one last chance to reach a deal .
It was claimed this evening the two sides have all but finalised terms on the level of access for EU boats to fish within the UK 's 200-mile exclusive economic zone .
However , Express.co.uk sources have rubbished this .
EU sources claimed the plan would see a phasing in of new rules over a five to seven year period .
But a UK Government source @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been no breakthrough on fish .
`` Nothing new has been achieved on this today . ''
The EU sources also claimed talks were now focusing on hammering out the “ ratchet clause ” .
This clause would mean the UK government could potentially have to follow EU environmental , social and labour standards .
Failing to do so could mean tariffs on British exports .
UK sources said that the negotiations would collapse unless this was dropped within the next 48 hours .
British negotiators are instead offering to review the deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allow the terms of trade to be changed if there is significant `` movement '' .
A UK government source told The Guardian : “ There won ’ t be any agreement if the EU don ’ t recognise reality .
READ MORE : Boris tells EU to GET REAL : UK threatens to walk away from talks '' We ’ ll only keep talking if there is some movement and we think there ’ s any point ” .
It comes after Mr Barnier asked for a transition period that would see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of around 18 to 20 percent of fish in UK waters to 50 percent over 10 years .
Brexit talks also remain on a knife-edge after a fraught 48 hours .
Lord Frost and Mr Barnier were at an impasse on Friday night which saw the EU 's chief negotiator return to Brussels empty-handed .
DO N'T MISS Boris Johnson told 'rushing ' EU trade deal will lead to horrible terms [ INSIGHT ] Brexit fishing fury : French fishermen warn of 'certain death ' [ REVEALED ] Brexit warning : UK must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to survive [ VIDEO ] It was down to Mr Johnson and Ms Von der Leyen to intervene and decide , after an hour-long phone call on Saturday evening , on one last roll of the dice before today and tomorrow .
The two leaders will reconvene on Monday where it will be decided whether the UK leaves the Brexit transition without a deal or not .
In a joint statement Mr Johnson and Ms Von der Leyen said on Saturday night : `` In a phone call today on the ongoing negotiations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kingdom , we welcomed the fact that progress has been achieved in many areas .
`` Nevertheless , significant differences remain on three critical issues : level playing field , governance and fisheries .

Brexit: David Davis urges Boris to 'not be bullied' by EU
The EU and the UK have spent today resuming trade negotiations after Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen pushed for one last chance to reach a deal. It was claimed this evening the two sides have all but finalised terms on the level of access for EU boats to fish within the UK's 200-mile exclusive economic zone. However, Express.co.uk sources have rubbished this.
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EU sources claimed the plan would see a phasing in of new rules over a five to seven year period. But a UK Government source told this website: "There's been no breakthrough on fish. "Nothing new has been achieved on this today." The EU sources also claimed talks were now focusing on hammering out the “ratchet clause”. This clause would mean the UK government could potentially have to follow EU environmental, social and labour standards.
The UK has rubbished claims of a "major breakthrough" on fishing
Failing to do so could mean tariffs on British exports. UK sources said that the negotiations would collapse unless this was dropped within the next 48 hours. British negotiators are instead offering to review the deal over an unknown number of years to allow the terms of trade to be changed if there is significant "movement". A UK government source told The Guardian: “There won’t be any agreement if the EU don’t recognise reality. READ MORE: Boris tells EU to GET REAL: UK threatens to walk away from talks
Brexit talks are still no further following this weekend's update
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"We’ll only keep talking if there is some movement and we think there’s any point”. It comes after Mr Barnier asked for a transition period that would see the UK move from having catch quotas of around 18 to 20 percent of fish in UK waters to 50 percent over 10 years. Brexit talks also remain on a knife-edge after a fraught 48 hours. Lord Frost and Mr Barnier were at an impasse on Friday night which saw the EU's chief negotiator return to Brussels empty-handed. DON'T MISS
Boris Johnson told 'rushing' EU trade deal will lead to horrible terms [INSIGHT]
Brexit fishing fury: French fishermen warn of 'certain death' [REVEALED]
Brexit warning: UK must escape EU's 'web of regulations' to survive [VIDEO]
Boris Johnson held crisis talks with Ursula von der Leyen on Satuday
The UK's transition period is due to end on December 31
It was down to Mr Johnson and Ms Von der Leyen to intervene and decide, after an hour-long phone call on Saturday evening, on one last roll of the dice before today and tomorrow. The two leaders will reconvene on Monday where it will be decided whether the UK leaves the Brexit transition without a deal or not. In a joint statement Mr Johnson and Ms Von der Leyen said on Saturday night: "In a phone call today on the ongoing negotiations between the European Union and the United Kingdom, we welcomed the fact that progress has been achieved in many areas. "Nevertheless, significant differences remain on three critical issues: level playing field, governance and fisheries.
Brexit talks failed to reach a breakthrough as neither side agreed on fishing arrangements
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thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--Boris tells EU to GET REAL: UK threatens to walk away from 'pointless' Brexit talks

Lord Frost , the Prime Minister ’ s lead negotiator , has told EU Brexit chief Michel Barnier he ’ ll only remain at the negotiating table while the Frenchman is willing to compromise .
Mr Barnier was last week ordered by French President Emmanuel Macron to table a series of “ eleventh hour ” proposals that left the negotiations on the brink of collapse .
The pair are set to hold late-night discussions as they attempt to break the deadlock in the wrangling over a future EU-UK trade and security agreement .
A UK source close to the talks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be any agreement if the EU doesn ’ t recognise political reality .
“ We ’ ll only keep talking if there is some movement and we think there ’ s any point.
” British officials are far more gloomy than their EU counterparts over whether a deal can be struck in the next few days .
Downing Street fears there is little wriggle room after a phone call between the Prime Minister and Commission President Ursula von der Leyen failed to change the “ substance ” of the talks The UK and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fishing rights and common standards , including controls over state subsidies for industry .
Brussels sources believe a “ landing zone ” is emerging for future access to Britain ’ s coastal waters .
Both sides are currently battling over whether they should agree to the EU ’ s idea of a 10-year transition period or Britain ’ s three-year proposal .
But an EU diplomat said the real challenge was in finding a compromise that would allow Brussels to respond with trade tariffs if Britain refuses to match the bloc ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Boris Johnson told 'rushing ' EU trade deal will lead to horrible terms UK dealmaker Lord Frost arrived in Brussels last night , saying : “ We ’ re going to be working very hard to get a deal .
“ We ’ re going to see what happens in negotiations today and will be looking forward to meeting our European colleagues later this afternoon.
” Mr Barnier yesterday cleared his diary , cancelling meetings with EU27 ambassadors and MEPs , to have a “ serious stab ” at ending the deadlock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discussions told Express.co.uk : “ It feels all quite choreographed .
DO N'T MISS Brexit fishing fury : French fishermen warn of 'certain death ' [ REVEALED ] Brexit warning : UK must escape EU 's 'web of regulations ' to survive [ INSIGHT ] Brexit fury : Michel Barnier cornered as 'no deal beckons ' [ VIDEO ] “ Storms are coming and black ice is forecast but it feels too early for the talks to derail .
Prime Minister Mr Johnson will hold further talks with Mrs von der Leyen Monday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Irish foreign minister Simon Coveney said the Brexit trade deal is “ 97 or 98 per cent ” complete and “ we are more likely to get a deal than not ” .
More pessimistic officials put the odds of a deal at “ 50/50 ” because of the “ fundamental issues ” still to be resolved .
Even the French government , which last week threatened to vote down any trade deal over concerns Mr Barnier was being too soft , signalled it was ready to allow Britain to diverge from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a close ally of Emmanuel Macron , said : “ The British want access to the single market without constraints for their social , environmental and health standards , which is unacceptable .
“ For our part , we are ready to put in place a system in which divergence of standards would be allowed but beyond which corrective measures would be taken .
“ The British tell us that this is unfair because other third countries do not have these same constraints , such as Canada .
But we have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ major trading partner outside the EU tomorrow.
” In a weekend interview , Mr Beaune insisted Paris was still prepared to veto any Brexit deal if its fishermen are largely locked out of Britain ’ s coastal waters .
He said : “ If there is an agreement , we will evaluate the text , analyse it .
But , if the agreement is not good and does not conform to our interests , especially for the fishermen , we , France , like every member state , could veto it.
” And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Paris and Berlin over concessions , Mr Beaune claimed a bad Brexit deal would hammer the German economy .
He said : “ As for the Chancellor Merkel she wants a deal , but she also defends our demands – and she knows the European market well enough to guess how the German economy would suffer from a bad deal .
”

Brexit: EU offer is ‘not acceptable’ says Alex Phillips
Lord Frost, the Prime Minister’s lead negotiator, has told EU Brexit chief Michel Barnier he’ll only remain at the negotiating table while the Frenchman is willing to compromise. Mr Barnier was last week ordered by French President Emmanuel Macron to table a series of “eleventh hour” proposals that left the negotiations on the brink of collapse. The pair are set to hold late-night discussions as they attempt to break the deadlock in the wrangling over a future EU-UK trade and security agreement.
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A UK source close to the talks said: “There won’t be any agreement if the EU doesn’t recognise political reality. “We’ll only keep talking if there is some movement and we think there’s any point.” British officials are far more gloomy than their EU counterparts over whether a deal can be struck in the next few days. Downing Street fears there is little wriggle room after a phone call between the Prime Minister and Commission President Ursula von der Leyen failed to change the “substance” of the talks
Brexit news: The EU has been told to decide between a no-deal Brexit or accepting UK as sovereign
The UK and EU are locked in discussions over post-Brexit fishing rights and common standards, including controls over state subsidies for industry. Brussels sources believe a “landing zone” is emerging for future access to Britain’s coastal waters. Both sides are currently battling over whether they should agree to the EU’s idea of a 10-year transition period or Britain’s three-year proposal. But an EU diplomat said the real challenge was in finding a compromise that would allow Brussels to respond with trade tariffs if Britain refuses to match the bloc’s standards in the future. READ MORE: Boris Johnson told 'rushing' EU trade deal will lead to horrible terms
Brexit news: Boris Johnson held crisis talks with Ursula von der Leyen at the weekend
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Brexit news: Mr Barnier was last week ordered by Macron to table a series of proposals
“Storms are coming and black ice is forecast but it feels too early for the talks to derail. “My money is on a Tuesday deal.” Prime Minister Mr Johnson will hold further talks with Mrs von der Leyen Monday evening to evaluate their negotiators' work. Irish foreign minister Simon Coveney said the Brexit trade deal is “97 or 98 per cent” complete and “we are more likely to get a deal than not”.
Brexit news: The transition period will end on December 31
More pessimistic officials put the odds of a deal at “50/50” because of the “fundamental issues” still to be resolved. Even the French government, which last week threatened to vote down any trade deal over concerns Mr Barnier was being too soft, signalled it was ready to allow Britain to diverge from EU rules. Europe minister Clement Beaune, a close ally of Emmanuel Macron, said: “The British want access to the single market without constraints for their social, environmental and health standards, which is unacceptable. “For our part, we are ready to put in place a system in which divergence of standards would be allowed but beyond which corrective measures would be taken.
Brexit news: The UK and EU are locked in discussions over post-Brexit fishing rights
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thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--‘The mask is slipping!’ Sturgeon shamed for using covid as excuse for independence demand

The Scottish First Minister is demanding a second independence vote next year after support for a new referendum has increased during the pandemic .
But opposition parties have claimed she is focused on independence rather than dealing with the pandemic .
The Scottish Conservative party leader , Douglas Ross , said : “ I think throughout this pandemic , we ’ ve seen communities coming together to support each other and that ’ s been one of the few positives out of Covid-19 is how we ’ ve all worked together , how we ’ ve put aside differences for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ SNP wants to throw all that in the bin , get rid of all that and divide our country , our workplaces , our families again over a constitutional argument when the priority should absolutely be on getting on top of this virus , rebuilding our economy post-Covid .
“ Nicola Sturgeon tries to portray herself as someone who is solely focused on dealing with the Covid pandemic when that ’ s clearly not the case.
” Mr Ross claimed the SNP Government wants to “ use every opportunity to further their aims @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He claimed their “ priority is separation at all costs ” .
The leader of the Scottish Tories also said it was “ very clear that people do not see another independence referendum as a priority for them in the next Parliament ” .
He continued : “ They expect the next Scottish Government to be focused still on the Covid pandemic and how we as a country can together rebuild after the effects of Covid-19.
” The MP for Moray added the SNP were unable to answer how Scotland would have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government ’ s £9.5billion payout .
He added people were “ fed up of manufactured grievances that we see from the SNP trying to pick a fight , politicising issues , rather than just rolling up our sleeves and working together .
“ I thought it was very telling that even during a global pandemic when lives are being lost in Scotland and people are worried about their jobs or their business and their future that the SNP revert to type.
” Mr Ross said Scotland needed a Government which is willing to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lives of people ” across the country .
He also argued there were “ major holes ” in the SNP ’ s case for independence following the 2014 poll .
DO N'T MISS Sturgeon SHAMED for ignoring everyday heroes with £500 bonus [ REVEAL ] Sturgeon 's ultimate bargaining chip to negotiate EU membership [ INSIGHT ] Sturgeon warning : SNP 's 'obsession ' with independence is 'sad ' - VIDEO [ COMMENT ] The Tory leader in Scotland continued : “ There are huge gaps in their argument for how a separate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ financed , would work in reality and these questions have not bee answered.
” He also offered voters an alternative to the “ tired ” SNP Government ahead of the Holyrood election next year .
So far , Prime Minister Boris Johnson has refused another referendum following the “ once in a lifetime ” vote in 2014 .
Mr Ross - who quit as Scotland Office minister in May - insisted “ working together ” will achieve far more than the “ petty fights ” between the UK and Scottish Governments .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been clear he believes in devolution , he is just frustrated as many Scots are that devolution has not delivered as much for people across the country as it could have done because for the last 13-and-a-half years , the SNP have used devolution for their own benefit to , in their view , advanced the case for separation , rate than actually delivering devolution and focusing on all the services.
” Polls are now suggesting a majority of Scots are in favour of leaving the UK .
Ms Sturgeon claimed it has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country will vote to separate from the Union .
While speaking at the party ’ s annual conference last month , she said : “ Scotland is now a nation on the cusp of making history .

SNP slammed by Miklinski for independence 'obsession'
The Scottish First Minister is demanding a second independence vote next year after support for a new referendum has increased during the pandemic. But opposition parties have claimed she is focused on independence rather than dealing with the pandemic.
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The Scottish Conservative party leader, Douglas Ross, said: “I think throughout this pandemic, we’ve seen communities coming together to support each other and that’s been one of the few positives out of Covid-19 is how we’ve all worked together, how we’ve put aside differences for the greater good. “And the SNP wants to throw all that in the bin, get rid of all that and divide our country, our workplaces, our families again over a constitutional argument when the priority should absolutely be on getting on top of this virus, rebuilding our economy post-Covid. “Nicola Sturgeon tries to portray herself as someone who is solely focused on dealing with the Covid pandemic when that’s clearly not the case.” Mr Ross claimed the SNP Government wants to “use every opportunity to further their aims” for making Scotland an independent country.
Sturgeon shamed for using covid as excuse
The Scottish Tory party leader, Douglas Ross
He claimed their “priority is separation at all costs”. The leader of the Scottish Tories also said it was “very clear that people do not see another independence referendum as a priority for them in the next Parliament”. He continued: “They expect the next Scottish Government to be focused still on the Covid pandemic and how we as a country can together rebuild after the effects of Covid-19.” The MP for Moray added the SNP were unable to answer how Scotland would have dealt with the pandemic without the UK Government’s £9.5billion payout. READ MORE: Andrew Neil shames SNP 'loony economics'
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Boris Johnson and Nicola Sturgeon
He added people were “fed up of manufactured grievances that we see from the SNP trying to pick a fight, politicising issues, rather than just rolling up our sleeves and working together. “I thought it was very telling that even during a global pandemic when lives are being lost in Scotland and people are worried about their jobs or their business and their future that the SNP revert to type.” Mr Ross said Scotland needed a Government which is willing to use their powers “to improve the lives of people” across the country. He also argued there were “major holes” in the SNP’s case for independence following the 2014 poll. DON'T MISS
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Should Scotland be an independent country?
The Tory leader in Scotland continued: “There are huge gaps in their argument for how a separate Scotland would be run, would be financed, would work in reality and these questions have not bee answered.” He also offered voters an alternative to the “tired” SNP Government ahead of the Holyrood election next year. So far, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has refused another referendum following the “once in a lifetime” vote in 2014. Mr Ross - who quit as Scotland Office minister in May - insisted “working together” will achieve far more than the “petty fights” between the UK and Scottish Governments.
Boris Johnson and Douglas Ross
He said: “The Prime Minister has been clear he believes in devolution, he is just frustrated as many Scots are that devolution has not delivered as much for people across the country as it could have done because for the last 13-and-a-half years, the SNP have used devolution for their own benefit to, in their view, advanced the case for separation, rate than actually delivering devolution and focusing on all the services.” Polls are now suggesting a majority of Scots are in favour of leaving the UK. Ms Sturgeon claimed it has “never been so certain” the country will vote to separate from the Union. While speaking at the party’s annual conference last month, she said: “Scotland is now a nation on the cusp of making history.
Nicola Sturgeon demands independence referendum


thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--VDL aide accused of 'giving UK too much' sparking furious demands Barnier change course

UK dealmaker Lord Frost arrived in the Belgian capital for “ one last throw of the dice ” with EU Brexit chief Michel Barnier .
Arriving from London , the peer today said : “ We ’ re going to be working very hard to get a deal .
We ’ re going to see what happens in negotiations today and will be looking forward to meeting our European colleagues later this afternoon.
” Senior Brussels sources were optimistic there is finally light at the end of the tunnel in the bitter wrangling over post-Brexit fishing rights and common standards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , cancelling meetings with EU27 ambassadors and MEPs , to have a “ serious stab ” at ending the deadlock , they said .
An EU diplomat familiar with the discussions told Express.co.uk : “ It feels all quite choreographed .
“ Storms are coming and black ice is forecast but it feels too early for the talks to derail .
“ My money is on a Tuesday deal.
” Prime Minister Boris Johnson will hold further talks with Commission President Ursula von der Leyen tomorrow evening to evaluate their negotiators ' work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Brexit trade deal is “ 97 or 98 per cent ” complete and “ we are more likely to get a deal than not ” .
More pessimistic officials put the odds of a deal at “ 50/50 ” because of the “ fundamental issues ” still to be resolved .
The diplomat said the challenge was in finding a compromise that would allow Brussels to respond with trade tariffs if Britain refuses to match the bloc ’ s standards in the future .
Even the French government , which last week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over concerns Mr Barnier was being too soft , signalled it was ready to allow Britain to diverge from EU rules .
Europe minister Clement Beaune , a close ally of Emmanuel Macron , said : “ The British want access to the single market without constraints for their social , environmental and health standards , which is unacceptable .
“ For our part , we are ready to put in place a system in which divergence of standards would be allowed but beyond which corrective measures would be taken .
“ The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because other third countries do not have these same constraints , such as Canada .
But we have to realise that the UK will be our major trading partner outside the EU tomorrow.
” EU sources said trust has been restored in Mr Barnier after he came under fire for offering Britain too many concessions to get the deal over the line before the end of the transition period .
Hardline capitals blamed one of Mrs von der Leyen ’ s top aides , Stephanie Riso , for the softened approach .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may have given away too much last week which has now been rectified by Mr Barnier himself.
” In a weekend interview , Mr Beaune insisted Paris was still prepared to veto any Brexit deal if its fishermen are largely locked out of Britain ’ s coastal waters .
He said : “ If there is an agreement , we will evaluate the text , analyse it .
But , if the agreement is not good and does not conform to our interests , especially for the fishermen , we , France , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it.
” And in a sign of growing tensions between Paris and Berlin over concessions , Mr Beaune claimed a bad Brexit deal would hammer the German economy .
He said : “ As for the Chancellor Merkel , she wants a deal , but she also defends our demands – and she knows the European market well enough to guess how the German economy would suffer from a bad deal.
” Brussels sources said they are confident Mr Johnson will drop controversial clauses in his Internal Market Bill before the legislation returns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Prime Minister is set to overturn a vote by peers after they tried to scrap his “ safety net ” laws to stop the EU carving up the UK by breaching last year ’ s Brexit divorce deal if trade talks collapse .
An insider added : “ Even if the Internal Market Bill were to land properly , we could keep on going on the premise the offending clauses are scrapped before signature of the trade deal .
”

Brexit: Michel Barnier says 'we will see' as he leaves UK
UK dealmaker Lord Frost arrived in the Belgian capital for “one last throw of the dice” with EU Brexit chief Michel Barnier. Arriving from London, the peer today said: “We’re going to be working very hard to get a deal. We’re going to see what happens in negotiations today and will be looking forward to meeting our European colleagues later this afternoon.”
Senior Brussels sources were optimistic there is finally light at the end of the tunnel in the bitter wrangling over post-Brexit fishing rights and common standards. Mr Barnier today cleared his diary, cancelling meetings with EU27 ambassadors and MEPs, to have a “serious stab” at ending the deadlock, they said. An EU diplomat familiar with the discussions told Express.co.uk: “It feels all quite choreographed.
“Storms are coming and black ice is forecast but it feels too early for the talks to derail.
“My money is on a Tuesday deal.”
Prime Minister Boris Johnson will hold further talks with Commission President Ursula von der Leyen tomorrow evening to evaluate their negotiators' work.
Irish foreign minister Simon Coveney said the Brexit trade deal is “97 or 98 per cent” complete and “we are more likely to get a deal than not”.
Mr Barnier today cleared his diary to have a 'serious stab' at ending the deadlock
More pessimistic officials put the odds of a deal at “50/50” because of the “fundamental issues” still to be resolved.
The diplomat said the challenge was in finding a compromise that would allow Brussels to respond with trade tariffs if Britain refuses to match the bloc’s standards in the future.
Even the French government, which last week threatened to vote down any trade deal over concerns Mr Barnier was being too soft, signalled it was ready to allow Britain to diverge from EU rules.
Europe minister Clement Beaune, a close ally of Emmanuel Macron, said: “The British want access to the single market without constraints for their social, environmental and health standards, which is unacceptable.
The Prime Minister will hold further talks tomorrow to evaluate the negotiators' work
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“For our part, we are ready to put in place a system in which divergence of standards would be allowed but beyond which corrective measures would be taken. “The British tell us that this is unfair because other third countries do not have these same constraints, such as Canada. But we have to realise that the UK will be our major trading partner outside the EU tomorrow.”
EU sources said trust has been restored in Mr Barnier after he came under fire for offering Britain too many concessions to get the deal over the line before the end of the transition period.
Hardline capitals blamed one of Mrs von der Leyen’s top aides, Stephanie Riso, for the softened approach.
A source said: “We feel Riso may have given away too much last week which has now been rectified by Mr Barnier himself.” In a weekend interview, Mr Beaune insisted Paris was still prepared to veto any Brexit deal if its fishermen are largely locked out of Britain’s coastal waters.
He said: “If there is an agreement, we will evaluate the text, analyse it. But, if the agreement is not good and does not conform to our interests, especially for the fishermen, we, France, like every member state, could veto it.”
And in a sign of growing tensions between Paris and Berlin over concessions, Mr Beaune claimed a bad Brexit deal would hammer the German economy.
UK dealmaker Lord Frost arrived in Brussels for 'one last throw of the dice'


thedailyexpress--2020-12-07--'You'll be banana republic without the bananas!' Andrew Neil shames SNP 'loony economics'

While support for Scottish independence continues to grow , Mr Neil said the SNP need to be “ honest ” about the huge problems the country will face if it separates from the UK .
Mr Neil admitted he believes Scotland is “ very capable ” of running itself , warning it was the SNP he was worried about .
In response to a Twitter message insinuating he was belittling Scotland , the former BBC journalist tweeted : “ Not at all .
Scotland very capable of running itself .
“ But you need to be honest about huge problems/hit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of separation from SUK .
“ And if it was based on loony economics of SNP Twitter hordes , you ’ d quickly be banana republic without the bananas.
” His comments come after a similar row sparked when Dr Tim Rideout , convenor of the Scottish Currency Group and a member of the SNP ’ s Development Committee , brought up the need for a Scottish pound .
Dr Rideout claimed a meal at a restaurant would still be valued at the same as the pound sterling the day after the creation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ replied by stating economic was not Dr Rideout ’ s “ strong point ” before pointing out in order to stop the Scottish pound plummeting , interest rates would rise , causing detrimental issues for businesses .
The former BBC journalist faced backlash from independence supporters .
READ MORE : 'Economy not your strong suit ? '
Andrew Neil points out SNP error One person replied : “ And if S£ depreciates the price of our exports falls and Moree is demanded thus stabilising S£ .
“ Balance of payments will be decent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back , saying Scotland will need one “ helluva depreciation ” to make that “ decent ” .
Previously , the SNP proposed an approach to use the pound without a formal currency union .
DO N'T MISS Sturgeon SHAMED for ignoring everyday heroes with £500 bonus [ REVEAL ] Sturgeon warning : SNP 's 'obsession ' with independence is 'sad ' - VIDEO [ COMMENT ] Sturgeon 's ultimate bargaining chip to negotiate EU membership [ INSIGHT ] Countries such as Panama and Montenegro do this with the US dollar and euro @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Nicola Sturgeon is hoping to land a second independence referendum just five years after the Scottish public voted to remain part of the UK .
So far , Prime Minister Boris Johnson has refused another referendum but polls are now suggesting a majority of Scots are in favour of leaving the UK .
Ms Sturgeon claimed it has “ never been so certain ” the country will vote to separate from the Union .
While speaking at the party ’ s annual conference last month , she said : “ Scotland is now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ history .
`` Independence is in clear sight – and with unity of purpose , humility and hard work I have never been so certain that we will deliver it .
“ The people of Scotland have the right to choose their future .
“ Let ’ s now focus all our efforts on making sure we bring about that better country they and future generations deserve .
”

Gordon Brown: Independence calls from SNP are ‘out of touch’
While support for Scottish independence continues to grow, Mr Neil said the SNP need to be “honest” about the huge problems the country will face if it separates from the UK.
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Mr Neil admitted he believes Scotland is “very capable” of running itself, warning it was the SNP he was worried about. In response to a Twitter message insinuating he was belittling Scotland, the former BBC journalist tweeted: “Not at all. Scotland very capable of running itself. “But you need to be honest about huge problems/hit to prosperity for first decade or so of separation from SUK. “And if it was based on loony economics of SNP Twitter hordes, you’d quickly be banana republic without the bananas.”
ndrew Neil shames SNP 'loony economics'
Nicola Sturgeon demands second referendum
His comments come after a similar row sparked when Dr Tim Rideout, convenor of the Scottish Currency Group and a member of the SNP’s Development Committee, brought up the need for a Scottish pound. Dr Rideout claimed a meal at a restaurant would still be valued at the same as the pound sterling the day after the creation of the new currency. Mr Neil replied by stating economic was not Dr Rideout’s “strong point” before pointing out in order to stop the Scottish pound plummeting, interest rates would rise, causing detrimental issues for businesses. The former BBC journalist faced backlash from independence supporters. READ MORE: 'Economy not your strong suit?' Andrew Neil points out SNP error
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Boris Johnson and Nicola Sturgeon
Should Scotland be an independent country?
Countries such as Panama and Montenegro do this with the US dollar and euro respectively. Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is hoping to land a second independence referendum just five years after the Scottish public voted to remain part of the UK. So far, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has refused another referendum but polls are now suggesting a majority of Scots are in favour of leaving the UK. Ms Sturgeon claimed it has “never been so certain” the country will vote to separate from the Union.
Andrew Neil lashes out at SNP economics
While speaking at the party’s annual conference last month, she said: “Scotland is now a nation on the cusp of making history. "Independence is in clear sight – and with unity of purpose, humility and hard work I have never been so certain that we will deliver it. “The people of Scotland have the right to choose their future. “Let’s now focus all our efforts on making sure we bring about that better country they and future generations deserve.”
Nicola Sturgeon demands Scottish independence