thedailyexpress--2020-10-17--'SNP in tatters!' Galloway urges Union backers to ramp up pressure to force Sturgeon OUT

The SNP has dominated the political landscape in Scotland for more than 13 years , fighting off opposition in the country to win three successive Scottish elections in 2007 , 2011 and 2016 .
Ms Sturgeon became the party 's leader and Scotland 's First Minister in 2014 , leading the SNP to general election victory in Scotland less than two years later .
The SNP also crushed its rivals in last December 's UK general election , winning a further 13 seats to now hold a huge 48 of the 59 seats available to Scotland in Westminster .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this year over her Government ’ s handling of the coronavirus crisis in Scotland , which has seen nearly 45,000 confirmed cases and more than 2,600 deaths .
She has also been criticised in some quarters for her continued campaign to force a second referendum on Scottish independence - despite the country voting in favour of remaining part of the UK during a historic referendum in 2014 .
Former Labour MP Mr Galloway , who recently established the political campaign group Alliance for Unity to force out the SNP and end all hopes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pressure is significantly increasing on the SNP and Ms Sturgeon .
He has also launched a campaign for a vote of no confidence to be called in Ms Sturgeon and her SNP Government , with the Change.org already receiving more than 30,000 signatures and a wave of support from those opposed to the First Minister and her party .
Mr Galloway told Express.co.uk : `` Nicola Sturgeon 's crowing about her record with coronavirus has been completely unacceptable as a Governmental stance but they are worse and not better than the vast majority @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ferrier affair has appeared as one of the biggest scandals in Scottish politics in many years .
`` The SNP is in tatters , and now is the time for those of us who support the Union to make that pressure count . ''
He added : `` The SNP are beginning to turn and it 's time to chase them off the field at the election in May .
READ MORE : Brexit LIVE : Boris left with 'no choice ' but to shut door on EU '' It is now time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ started a petition for her resignation and it quickly gained tens of thousands of votes .
`` That petition is only treading water now because Resign Margaret Ferrier , another of my petitions , is trending on social media and is the call of the hour . ''
Mr Galloway outlined a plan as to how this could be achieved heading into the Scottish elections in May 2021 .
In Scotland , the SNP holds 61 of the 129 seats available in parliament , with the remainder split between the Conservatives , Labour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
DO N'T MISS BBC 's Katya Adler exposes Boris shut down Merkel 's Brexit wish [ COMMENT ] 'Walk away now ! '
Boris backed over tough stance on Brexit talks [ POLL ] Emmanuel Macron isolated by EU leaders trying to rescue Brexit talks [ ANALYSIS ] Scotland 's ruling party also picked up a further 13 seats in last year 's UK general election , and now holds 49 of the 58 available seats to Scottish political parties in the House of Commons .
Mr Galloway said the only way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at next year 's Scottish elections is to form a `` cross-class , cross-party alliance '' .
He explained this would mean pro-Union parties standing down in constituencies where they know they ca n't win , and stepping up efforts in areas of Scotland where they are confident they can be victorious .
A similar tactic was introduced by Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage in the run up to last December 's UK general election , where he stood down dozens of the group 's members in constituencies that were likely to be @ @ @ @

Nicola Sturgeon admits she has made ‘mistakes’ during pandemic
The SNP has dominated the political landscape in Scotland for more than 13 years, fighting off opposition in the country to win three successive Scottish elections in 2007, 2011 and 2016. Ms Sturgeon became the party's leader and Scotland's First Minister in 2014, leading the SNP to general election victory in Scotland less than two years later. The SNP also crushed its rivals in last December's UK general election, winning a further 13 seats to now hold a huge 48 of the 59 seats available to Scotland in Westminster.
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But Ms Sturgeon has come under increasing pressure this year over her Government’s handling of the coronavirus crisis in Scotland, which has seen nearly 45,000 confirmed cases and more than 2,600 deaths. She has also been criticised in some quarters for her continued campaign to force a second referendum on Scottish independence - despite the country voting in favour of remaining part of the UK during a historic referendum in 2014. Former Labour MP Mr Galloway, who recently established the political campaign group Alliance for Unity to force out the SNP and end all hopes of Scottish independence, has warned the pressure is significantly increasing on the SNP and Ms Sturgeon. He has also launched a campaign for a vote of no confidence to be called in Ms Sturgeon and her SNP Government, with the Change.org already receiving more than 30,000 signatures and a wave of support from those opposed to the First Minister and her party.
SNP news: George Galloway is urging Union supporters to ramp up the pressure on Nicola Sturgeon
SNP news: Nicola Sturgeon and her Government are under pressure over their handling of the coronavirus crisis in Scotland
Mr Galloway told Express.co.uk: "Nicola Sturgeon's crowing about her record with coronavirus has been completely unacceptable as a Governmental stance but they are worse and not better than the vast majority of other places. "The Margaret Ferrier affair has appeared as one of the biggest scandals in Scottish politics in many years. "The SNP is in tatters, and now is the time for those of us who support the Union to make that pressure count." He added: "The SNP are beginning to turn and it's time to chase them off the field at the election in May. READ MORE:Brexit LIVE: Boris left with 'no choice' but to shut door on EU
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SNP news: George Galloway is attempting to ramp up the pressure on Nicola Strugeon
"It is now time for Nicola Sturgeon to go. I started a petition for her resignation and it quickly gained tens of thousands of votes. "That petition is only treading water now because Resign Margaret Ferrier, another of my petitions, is trending on social media and is the call of the hour." Mr Galloway outlined a plan as to how this could be achieved heading into the Scottish elections in May 2021. In Scotland, the SNP holds 61 of the 129 seats available in parliament, with the remainder split between the Conservatives, Labour, Greens, Liberal Democrats and independents. DON'T MISS
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Emmanuel Macron isolated by EU leaders trying to rescue Brexit talks [ANALYSIS]
SNP news: Nicola Sturgeon has continued to campaign for a second referendum on Scottish independence
SNP news: Thousands of people attend a Scottish independence rally
Scotland's ruling party also picked up a further 13 seats in last year's UK general election, and now holds 49 of the 58 available seats to Scottish political parties in the House of Commons. Mr Galloway said the only way to defeat Ms Sturgeon and the SNP at next year's Scottish elections is to form a "cross-class, cross-party alliance". He explained this would mean pro-Union parties standing down in constituencies where they know they can't win, and stepping up efforts in areas of Scotland where they are confident they can be victorious. A similar tactic was introduced by Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage in the run up to last December's UK general election, where he stood down dozens of the group's members in constituencies that were likely to be dominated by rivals.


thedailyexpress--2020-10-18--Brexit trade talks won't resume for YEARS as EU makes 'major misjudgment' of UK

A source close to David Frost ’ s negotiating team launched a furious attack on EU leaders for putting domestic political concerns ahead of efforts to strike a free trade deal with the UK .
Senior Conservative MPs now argue that because the EU has negotiated in bad faith it is time to ditch the Withdrawal Agreement in a bid to ensure the UK is free from the threat of Brussels interference .
The senior source said there were signs that EU leaders are so worried about the rise of populist leaders such as France ’ s Marine Le Pen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the need to agree a trade deal with Britain .
Fishing was a “ huge stumbling block ” in the talks which Downing St last week declared are now “ over ” and the EU is accused of not coming close to offering a deal comparable to the free trade agreement struck with Canada .
The British team suspect the EU was “ hoping to ‘ bounce ’ us into accepting a legal text that they have prepared in isolation ” .
The EU , the source added , “ seemed to think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ force the UK to make concessions that would fundamentally undermine our legal and economic autonomy .
If they did think that , they have made a major misjudgment about this Government compared to its predecessors.
” The UK side feels the EU has “ taken us for a ride and not taken the process seriously ” .
Boris Johnson will not sit down for further talks unless there is the true prospect of a breakthrough .
The source said : “ The PM is focused on the Covid recovery effort and would not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on process for the sake of it .
The EU must fundamentally change course or the UK will leave in Australian-style terms , under which we will thrive.
” The door is not completely shut on a final-hour bid to nail down a deal , but Britain is clear what must happen for that to be possible .
The source said : “ We couldn ’ t continue with a negotiation that was more like performance art than real engagement .
That is why we told [ EU chief negotiator ] Michel Barnier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coming to London this week unless there is a fundamental change of approach from the EU .
“ Most observers would find it incredible at this point that thanks to EU manoeuvring there is literally no agreed treaty text of any kind in place .
This must change .
“ If it does , we are always ready to listen.
” Unless EU leaders agree a bold change in strategy , the UK now faces the real prospect of the Brexit transition phase ending without a trade agreement in place .
The source @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , at the end of the transition period the UK is leaving the single market and customs union , meaning that there will be significant changes at the border .
The Government ’ s view is that if the EU is unwilling to negotiate a trade deal with the UK before the end of the transition period , it may be several years before we can meaningfully return to the negotiating table.
” Senior Brexiteers are now pressing for the Government to pull out of the Withdrawal Agreement .
Former Brexit minister David @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to recognise that the Withdrawal Agreement , and especially the Northern Ireland protocol , contain provisions that would allow the European Court of Justice to retain jurisdiction indefinitely in some cases and that would regulate our continuing relationship with the EU .
There ’ s a wide misconception that we can simply walk away from the negotiating table and then we get away on December 31 Scot-free and that is not the case because the Withdrawal Agreement prevails beyond the end of the transition period.
” Arguing that the UK would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : “ I think we ’ ve got good grounds to say that the EU itself has not performed its obligations under the Withdrawal Agreement .
[ It says ] the parties must use best endeavours and act in good faith to seek to secure a free trade agreement that is respectful of the United Kingdom ’ s sovereignty and the integrity of the UK internal market .
“ They ’ ve clearly not done that ...
I think it ’ s coming to the point where we have to make it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have not observed their obligations – their legal obligations – under the Withdrawal Agreement and that being the case the United Kingdom is perfectly entitled as a matter of law to take steps to protect its own national interest.
” Former Conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith said : “ There is no legal reason why we should be paying any money to the EU other than our budgetary contributions .
“ It is now clearer than ever that the EU did not conduct these negotiations in good faith .
The Prime Minister should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hand over a penny more than we owe.
” North West Leicestershire MP Andrew Bridgen , a leading Conservative Brexiteer , said : “ The Withdrawal Agreement has got to go ...
If there ’ s no trade deal we need to legislate to neutralise the Withdrawal Agreement as soon as we ’ ve left in January [ and ] if we do have an agreement of any sort it needs to be stated in there that it fully replaces and supersedes the Withdrawal Agreement.
” A letter yesterday signed by pro-Brexit organisations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Facts4EU , the Bruges Group , City for Britainand Scots for Leave urged the Prime Minister to “ repudiate the Withdrawal Agreement ” .
It warned : “ Anything else would be a betrayal of democracy , sovereignty , and international law.
” “ Just as the UK has done it should trust its comparative advantages and unleash them on the global markets rather than relying on a stagnant economic bloc , which is suffocating its very own economies , as well as holding back developing nations.
” Lee Anderson , the Conservative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” seat of Ashfield , fully supported pulling out of the talks and argues the UK should stop paying into EU schemes if a deal can not be reached .
He said : “ We will not be bullied by the EU .
We ’ ve been very reasonable .
“ We ’ ve negotiated with the best interests of the UK at heart and the EU have proved time and time again they have no intention of letting us go unless it is on their terms , and I say , ‘ @ @ @ @ @

EU ‘determined to reach deal but not at any cost’ says Michel
A source close to David Frost’s negotiating team launched a furious attack on EU leaders for putting domestic political concerns ahead of efforts to strike a free trade deal with the UK. Senior Conservative MPs now argue that because the EU has negotiated in bad faith it is time to ditch the Withdrawal Agreement in a bid to ensure the UK is free from the threat of Brussels interference. The senior source said there were signs that EU leaders are so worried about the rise of populist leaders such as France’s Marine Le Pen that they have prioritised domestic politics over the need to agree a trade deal with Britain.
Fishing was a “huge stumbling block” in the talks which Downing St last week declared are now “over” and the EU is accused of not coming close to offering a deal comparable to the free trade agreement struck with Canada. The British team suspect the EU was “hoping to ‘bounce’ us into accepting a legal text that they have prepared in isolation”. The EU, the source added, “seemed to think they could run down the clock to force the UK to make concessions that would fundamentally undermine our legal and economic autonomy. If they did think that, they have made a major misjudgment about this Government compared to its predecessors.” The UK side feels the EU has “taken us for a ride and not taken the process seriously”. Boris Johnson will not sit down for further talks unless there is the true prospect of a breakthrough.
Boris Johnson and Michel Barnier are thrashing out Brexit as the days countdown
The source said: “The PM is focused on the Covid recovery effort and would not agree to join talks that waste time on process for the sake of it. The EU must fundamentally change course or the UK will leave in Australian-style terms, under which we will thrive.” The door is not completely shut on a final-hour bid to nail down a deal, but Britain is clear what must happen for that to be possible. The source said: “We couldn’t continue with a negotiation that was more like performance art than real engagement. That is why we told [EU chief negotiator] Michel Barnier that there is no point in him coming to London this week unless there is a fundamental change of approach from the EU. “Most observers would find it incredible at this point that thanks to EU manoeuvring there is literally no agreed treaty text of any kind in place. This must change. “If it does, we are always ready to listen.”
The prime minister is focused on the UK's fight against Covid-19
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Unless EU leaders agree a bold change in strategy, the UK now faces the real prospect of the Brexit transition phase ending without a trade agreement in place. The source said: “Regardless of the negotiations, at the end of the transition period the UK is leaving the single market and customs union, meaning that there will be significant changes at the border. The Government’s view is that if the EU is unwilling to negotiate a trade deal with the UK before the end of the transition period, it may be several years before we can meaningfully return to the negotiating table.” Senior Brexiteers are now pressing for the Government to pull out of the Withdrawal Agreement. Former Brexit minister David Jones said: “[We] have to recognise that the Withdrawal Agreement, and especially the Northern Ireland protocol, contain provisions that would allow the European Court of Justice to retain jurisdiction indefinitely in some cases and that would regulate our continuing relationship with the EU. There’s a wide misconception that we can simply walk away from the negotiating table and then we get away on December 31 Scot-free and that is not the case because the Withdrawal Agreement prevails beyond the end of the transition period.”
Arguing that the UK would be justified in ditching the agreement, he said: “I think we’ve got good grounds to say that the EU itself has not performed its obligations under the Withdrawal Agreement. [It says] the parties must use best endeavours and act in good faith to seek to secure a free trade agreement that is respectful of the United Kingdom’s sovereignty and the integrity of the UK internal market. “They’ve clearly not done that... I think it’s coming to the point where we have to make it very clear to the European Union they have not observed their obligations – their legal obligations – under the Withdrawal Agreement and that being the case the United Kingdom is perfectly entitled as a matter of law to take steps to protect its own national interest.” Former Conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith said: “There is no legal reason why we should be paying any money to the EU other than our budgetary contributions.
Iain Duncan-Smith said the UK shouldn't be paying any money to the EU
“It is now clearer than ever that the EU did not conduct these negotiations in good faith. The Prime Minister should tear up the Withdrawal Agreement and not hand over a penny more than we owe.” North West Leicestershire MP Andrew Bridgen, a leading Conservative Brexiteer, said: “The Withdrawal Agreement has got to go... If there’s no trade deal we need to legislate to neutralise the Withdrawal Agreement as soon as we’ve left in January [and] if we do have an agreement of any sort it needs to be stated in there that it fully replaces and supersedes the Withdrawal Agreement.” A letter yesterday signed by pro-Brexit organisations including Alliance of British Entrepreneurs, Brexit Facts4EU, the Bruges Group, City for Britainand Scots for Leave urged the Prime Minister to “repudiate the Withdrawal Agreement”. It warned: “Anything else would be a betrayal of democracy, sovereignty, and international law.”
Andrew Bridgen has called for the Withdrawal Agreement to be scrapped
The Centre for Brexit Policy this month warned that the Government’s ambition of a Canadian-style deal is “all but unachievable” if the Withdrawal Agreement remains in place. Marco Longhi, the Conservative Dudley North MP, argues Brussels is intent on “making an example of what happens to a member state that refuses to play any longer” but says the future of the EU is now in danger. The MP, who grew up in Rome, argues that euroscepticism may intensify in Italy. He said: “In Italy there is growing disapproval of the EU; in a recent survey 42 percent of respondents said they would leave the EU, up from 26 percent in 2018... As euroscepticism builds across Europe, nation-states such as Italy should not fear the prospect of opening to the global economy.
Euroscepticism could be growing in Italy


thedailyexpress--2020-10-17--Brexit crisis: Boris warned EU won't finally cave to UK demands - 'Don't trust them!'

The Prime Minister has warned the EU talks on a post-Brexit free trade agreement are over unless Brussels shows a `` fundamental change of approach '' .
In a strongly-worded statement broadcast on Friday , he told the UK to get ready for no-deal as long-running but often bitter negotiations between the two sides completely collapsed during the European Council summit in the Belgian capital .
Mr Johnson accused the EU of making `` unacceptable '' demands and insisted a `` fundamental change of approach '' was needed by Brussels if there was to be any chance of an agreement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outset , we were totally clear that we wanted nothing more complicated than a Canada-style relationship , based on friendship and free trade .
`` To judge by the latest EU summit in Brussels , that wo n't work for our EU partners .
“ They want the continued ability to control our legislative freedom , our fisheries , in a way that is obviously unacceptable to an independent country .
`` Given that they have refused to negotiate seriously for much of the last few months , and given that this summit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal , I have concluded that we should get ready for January 1 with arrangements that are more like Australia 's based on simple principles of global free trade . ''
Now Express.co.uk readers have launched savage attack against the EU , warning the Prime Minister the bloc will remain stubborn in its attempts to fight back against his ultimatum .
The latest poll , which ran from 1pm until 9pm on Saturday October 17 , asked : `` After Boris 's ultimatum , will EU finally cave and accept UK demands ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 62 percent or 5,077 readers ) believe the EU will stand firm and not bow to the latest demands from the Prime Minister .
Just under a third ( 32 percent or 2,584 readers ) believe Mr Johnson has now gained the upper hand with his ultimatum , while the remaining six percent ( 451 readers ) are undecided .
READ MORE : Brexit LIVE : Boris plans urgent update in less than 24 hours Express.co.uk readers have again backed the UK to walk away from the negotiating table with the EU and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no trade deal in place .
One person wrote : `` The EU is not going to give Boris a deal that allows the UK to be competitive with the bloc - not when we sit on their doorstep across the channel .
`` It 's just not going to happen , and from their point of view you can see why it never will with a deal done .
`` The only way that would happen is the UK walking away with a No Deal . ''
DO N'T MISS EU ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to strike own Brexit deal [ OPINION ] UK threat rattles EU as Macron desperately tries to change Boris ' mind [ COMMENT ] Boris backed to ignore Macron 's fishing demands [ POLL ] A second person wrote : `` I hope they do n't cave in .
No deal is the best deal . ''
Several other Express.co.uk readers launched scathing attacks against the EU , with some accusing the bloc of being `` devious '' and showing `` arrogance '' .
One person commented : `` The EU will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treaty and legislation .
Do not trust them Boris . ''
Another said : `` The underlying arrogance and belief of their superiority with a total lack of integrity , coupled with a general disregard for their own rules , suggests not.
” Mr Johnson had maintained that if a trade deal had not been agreed by last week 's European Council summit , which started on Thursday , he would walk away from the negotiating table .
Following the Prime Minister 's latest statement from Downing Street , European Commission President Ursula @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s chief negotiator Michel Barnier would travel to London on Monday to continue trade talks .
But this was quickly shot down by Number 10 , who said there was `` no basis for negotiations '' in the capital .
And the UK ’ s chief negotiator Lord Frost told his counterpart Mr Barnier not to come .
A Number 10 spokesman said : `` Lord Frost has spoken to Michel Barnier to update the EU on the Prime Minister 's statement .
`` Lord Frost said that , as the Prime Minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's conclusions yesterday had left us without a basis to continue the trade talks without a fundamental change in the EU 's approach to these negotiations .

Brexit: Johnson admits ‘Australia-style’ agreement most likely
The Prime Minister has warned the EU talks on a post-Brexit free trade agreement are over unless Brussels shows a "fundamental change of approach". In a strongly-worded statement broadcast on Friday, he told the UK to get ready for no-deal as long-running but often bitter negotiations between the two sides completely collapsed during the European Council summit in the Belgian capital. Mr Johnson accused the EU of making "unacceptable" demands and insisted a "fundamental change of approach" was needed by Brussels if there was to be any chance of an agreement.
Trending
He said: "From the outset, we were totally clear that we wanted nothing more complicated than a Canada-style relationship, based on friendship and free trade. "To judge by the latest EU summit in Brussels, that won't work for our EU partners. “They want the continued ability to control our legislative freedom, our fisheries, in a way that is obviously unacceptable to an independent country. "Given that they have refused to negotiate seriously for much of the last few months, and given that this summit appears explicitly to rule out a Canada-style deal, I have concluded that we should get ready for January 1 with arrangements that are more like Australia's based on simple principles of global free trade."
Brexit news: Boris Johnson has been warned the EU won't cave to demands from the UK
Brexit news: Boris Johnson warned the EU trade talks are over unless it signficantly changes course
Now Express.co.uk readers have launched savage attack against the EU, warning the Prime Minister the bloc will remain stubborn in its attempts to fight back against his ultimatum. The latest poll, which ran from 1pm until 9pm on Saturday October 17, asked: "After Boris's ultimatum, will EU finally cave and accept UK demands?" However, nearly two thirds (62 percent or 5,077 readers) believe the EU will stand firm and not bow to the latest demands from the Prime Minister. Just under a third (32 percent or 2,584 readers) believe Mr Johnson has now gained the upper hand with his ultimatum, while the remaining six percent (451 readers) are undecided. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: Boris plans urgent update in less than 24 hours
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Brexit news: Express.co.uk readers do not believe the EU will cave and accept the UK's demands
Express.co.uk readers have again backed the UK to walk away from the negotiating table with the EU and leave the bloc on December 31 with no trade deal in place. One person wrote: "The EU is not going to give Boris a deal that allows the UK to be competitive with the bloc - not when we sit on their doorstep across the channel. "It's just not going to happen, and from their point of view you can see why it never will with a deal done. "The only way that would happen is the UK walking away with a No Deal." DON'T MISS
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Brexit news: European commission President Ursula von der Leyen
Brexit news: Michel Barnier has been told by Downing Street there is little point coming to London next week foir further talks
A second person wrote: "I hope they don't cave in. No deal is the best deal." Several other Express.co.uk readers launched scathing attacks against the EU, with some accusing the bloc of being "devious" and showing "arrogance". One person commented: "The EU will be scheming and devious and will disguise under treaty and legislation. Do not trust them Boris." Another said: "The underlying arrogance and belief of their superiority with a total lack of integrity, coupled with a general disregard for their own rules, suggests not.” Mr Johnson had maintained that if a trade deal had not been agreed by last week's European Council summit, which started on Thursday, he would walk away from the negotiating table.
Brexit news: The transition period ends on December 31
Following the Prime Minister's latest statement from Downing Street, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier would travel to London on Monday to continue trade talks. But this was quickly shot down by Number 10, who said there was "no basis for negotiations" in the capital. And the UK’s chief negotiator Lord Frost told his counterpart Mr Barnier not to come. A Number 10 spokesman said: "Lord Frost has spoken to Michel Barnier to update the EU on the Prime Minister's statement. "Lord Frost said that, as the Prime Minister had made clear, the European Council's conclusions yesterday had left us without a basis to continue the trade talks without a fundamental change in the EU's approach to these negotiations.


thedailyexpress--2020-10-17--'They don't want us to succeed!' David Davis names the two EU nations who fear UK triumph

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The former Brexit @ @ @ @ @ European Union has paranoia regarding other countries wanting to follow the UK in leaving the @ @ @ @ @ MP named France and Germany as the nations that do not want Brexit to succeed @ @ @ @ @ I think part of this is driven by an emotional imperative , certainly from the @ @ @ @ @ the Germans .
`` They did not want us to succeed .
`` In leaving @ @ @ @ @ us to be a model for somebody else who might leave .
`` I actually @ @ @ @ @ nobody else in the EU is going to leave .
READ MORE : Farming warning @ @ @ @ @ 'big bailout ' could 'undermine ' UK

Brexit: EU ‘don’t want' UK to succeed says David Davis
The former Brexit Secretary told LBC that the European Union has paranoia regarding other countries wanting to follow the UK in leaving the trading bloc. The Conservative MP named France and Germany as the nations that do not want Brexit to succeed.
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Mr Davis said: I think part of this is driven by an emotional imperative, certainly from the French and to an extent the Germans. "They did not want us to succeed. "In leaving, they did not want us to be a model for somebody else who might leave. "I actually think that is paranoia, nobody else in the EU is going to leave. READ MORE: Farming warning: How Dutch farmers' 'big bailout' could 'undermine' UK
David Davis is a former Brexit Secretary
David Davis stated some EU nations do not want the UK to succeed
"Nobody else is in our position, so that is where this comes from." Earlier on Saturday, Boris Johnson was told that a no-deal Brexit was the "lesser of two evils" for the European Union by a Belgian MEP. Phillipe Lamberts told LBC he believes the Prime Minister doesn’t want a Brexit trade deal with the European Union. The MEP added that opening the door to the EU single market without respecting EU standards was a worse alternative than failing to agree a trade deal with the UK.
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Brexit: UK 'have been soft with EU for too long' says David Davis
Mr Lamberts said: "The Prime Minister's speech yesterday is consistent with the view I have held for some time that actually he doesn't want a deal." The MEP stated that the European Union felt the "UK's word could not be trusted" but they kept negotiating. He added regarding Boris Johnson: "If he cannot provoke us to leave the table he has to do it himself. "That is what he did yesterday alleging that the EU will not offer a Canada style deal." DON'T MISS
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thedailyexpress--2020-10-17--Tim Martin tells Boris Johnson to change COVID approach or risk 'sinking like a stone'

During an interivew 's with talkRADIO 's Mike Parry , the Wetherspoons chairman urged the Prime Minister and the UK Government to change their approach to the COVID-19 crisis .
Mr Martin told Boris Johnson that he must start `` swimming '' as the tides are changing .
Mr Parry said : `` If you had a one to one with Boris Johnson the Prime Minister right now what would you say ? ''
Mr Martin said : `` I would say Boris , you have got to change course .
`` You have got to start swimming or you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The tides are changing , you have got to change course . ''
READ MORE : Macron crisis : French think UK has upper hand in Brexit talks On Friday , Mr Martin backed Boris Johnson 's announcement that the UK should `` get ready '' for no trade deal with the European Union .
The Brexiteer businessman reiterated that Britain would `` be better off with no deal '' following a growing feud between the UK and EU over Brexit talks .
Mr Martin was asked on Sky New whether the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a last-ditch deal with the EU .
He responded : `` It 's always worth bothering .
It entirely depends , I always thought , on the EU .
`` Personally I think we 'd be better off with no deal , as I 've said many times before , in reducing tariffs and going for a free trade approach .
`` If the EU want to get a deal , that 's fine - if they do n't want a deal , there is nothing you can do ! ''
On Friday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prepare for an Australia-style trade agreement with the European Union .
`` Given that they have refused to negotiate seriously for much of the last few months , and given that this summit appears explicitly to rule out a Canada-style deal , I have concluded that we should get ready for January 1 with arrangements that are more like Australia ’ s based on simple principles of global free trade .
Macron crisis : French think UK has upper hand in Brexit talks [ POLL ] BBC 's Katya Adler predicts EU will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ INSIGHT ] Finnish PM leaves EU summit for coronavirus self-isolation precaution [ VIDEO ] '' We can do it , because we always knew that there would be change on January 1 whatever type of relationship we had . ''
The Prime Minister continued : `` So now is the time for our businesses to get ready , and for hauliers to get ready , and for travellers to get ready .
`` Of course we are willing to discuss the practicalities with our friends where a lot of progress has already been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such issues as social security , and aviation , nuclear cooperation and so on .
`` But for whatever reason it is clear from the summit that after 45 years of membership they are not willing – unless there is some fundamental change of approach – to offer this country the same terms as Canada .
`` So with high hearts and complete confidence we will prepare to embrace the alternative . ''

Boris Johnson urged by Tim Martin to ‘change course’ on COVID
During an interivew's with talkRADIO's Mike Parry, the Wetherspoons chairman urged the Prime Minister and the UK Government to change their approach to the COVID-19 crisis. Mr Martin told Boris Johnson that he must start "swimming" as the tides are changing.
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Mr Parry said: "If you had a one to one with Boris Johnson the Prime Minister right now what would you say?" Mr Martin said: "I would say Boris, you have got to change course. "You have got to start swimming or you will sink like a stone. "The tides are changing, you have got to change course."
READ MORE: Macron crisis: French think UK has upper hand in Brexit talks
Tim Martin told Boris Johnson to change his approach to the pandemic
The coronavirus risk chart
On Friday, Mr Martin backed Boris Johnson's announcement that the UK should "get ready" for no trade deal with the European Union. The Brexiteer businessman reiterated that Britain would "be better off with no deal" following a growing feud between the UK and EU over Brexit talks. Mr Martin was asked on Sky New whether the UK should "bother" trying to get a last-ditch deal with the EU. He responded: "It's always worth bothering. It entirely depends, I always thought, on the EU.
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Brexit: UK will be 'better off without a deal' says Tim Martin
"Personally I think we'd be better off with no deal, as I've said many times before, in reducing tariffs and going for a free trade approach. "If the EU want to get a deal, that's fine - if they don't want a deal, there is nothing you can do!" On Friday, Mr Johnson told the UK to prepare for an Australia-style trade agreement with the European Union. "Given that they have refused to negotiate seriously for much of the last few months, and given that this summit appears explicitly to rule out a Canada-style deal, I have concluded that we should get ready for January 1 with arrangements that are more like Australia’s based on simple principles of global free trade. DON'T MISS: Macron crisis: French think UK has upper hand in Brexit talks [POLL]
BBC's Katya Adler predicts EU will hand over big compromises to UK [INSIGHT]
Finnish PM leaves EU summit for coronavirus self-isolation precaution [VIDEO]
Boris Johnson has been Prime Minister since July 2019


thedailyexpress--2020-10-17--Boris Johnson told no deal Brexit 'lesser of two evils' as UK unable to agree to EU terms

Phillipe Lamberts told LBC he believes the Prime Minister doesn ’ t want a Brexit trade deal with the European Union .
The MEP added that opening the door to the EU single market without respecting EU standards was a worse alternative than failing to agree a trade deal with the UK .
Mr Lamberts said : `` The Prime Minister 's speech yesterday is consistent with the view I have held for some time that actually he does n't want a deal . ''
The MEP stated that the European Union felt the `` UK 's word could not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He added regarding Boris Johnson : `` If he can not provoke us to leave the table he has to do it himself .
`` That is what he did yesterday alleging that the EU will not offer a Canada style deal . ''
Mr Lambert was also quizzed regarding the possibility of a no deal Brexit .
He said : `` We have to choose between two evils , one is a no-deal Brexit and of course it will hurt .
`` But opening the door to the EU single market @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even worse evil between the two evils .
`` We have to choose the lesser one . ''
On Friday , Mr Johnson told the UK to prepare for an Australia-style trade agreement with the European Union .
He said : `` They want the continued ability to control our legislative freedom , our fisheries , in a way that is obviously unacceptable to an independent country .
`` Since we have only ten weeks until the end of the transition period on January 1 , I have to make a judgment about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all ready .
`` Given that they have refused to negotiate seriously for much of the last few months , and given that this summit appears explicitly to rule out a Canada-style deal , I have concluded that we should get ready for January 1 with arrangements that are more like Australia ’ s based on simple principles of global free trade .
`` We can do it , because we always knew that there would be change on January 1 whatever type of relationship we had . ''
The Prime Minister continued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for our businesses to get ready , and for hauliers to get ready , and for travellers to get ready .
`` Of course we are willing to discuss the practicalities with our friends where a lot of progress has already been made , by the way , on such issues as social security , and aviation , nuclear cooperation and so on .
`` But for whatever reason it is clear from the summit that after 45 years of membership they are not willing – unless there is some fundamental change of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same terms as Canada .
`` So with high hearts and complete confidence we will prepare to embrace the alternative .
`` And we will prosper mightily as an independent free trading nation , controlling our own borders , our fisheries , and setting our own laws . ''

Brexit: Boris Johnson ‘doesn’t want a deal’ says Lamberts
Phillipe Lamberts told LBC he believes the Prime Minister doesn’t want a Brexit trade deal with the European Union. The MEP added that opening the door to the EU single market without respecting EU standards was a worse alternative than failing to agree a trade deal with the UK.
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Mr Lamberts said: "The Prime Minister's speech yesterday is consistent with the view I have held for some time that actually he doesn't want a deal." The MEP stated that the European Union felt the "UK's word could not be trusted" but they kept negotiating. He added regarding Boris Johnson: "If he cannot provoke us to leave the table he has to do it himself. "That is what he did yesterday alleging that the EU will not offer a Canada style deal."
Boris Johnson has been Prime Minister since July 2019
Boris Johnson replaced Theresa May as Prime Minister
Mr Lambert was also quizzed regarding the possibility of a no deal Brexit. He said: "We have to choose between two evils, one is a no-deal Brexit and of course it will hurt. "But opening the door to the EU single market without respecting EU standards would be an even worse evil between the two evils. "We have to choose the lesser one."
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Brexit: Johnson admits ‘Australia-style’ agreement most likely
On Friday, Mr Johnson told the UK to prepare for an Australia-style trade agreement with the European Union. He said: "They want the continued ability to control our legislative freedom, our fisheries, in a way that is obviously unacceptable to an independent country. "Since we have only ten weeks until the end of the transition period on January 1, I have to make a judgment about the likely outcome and to get us all ready. "Given that they have refused to negotiate seriously for much of the last few months, and given that this summit appears explicitly to rule out a Canada-style deal, I have concluded that we should get ready for January 1 with arrangements that are more like Australia’s based on simple principles of global free trade. "We can do it, because we always knew that there would be change on January 1 whatever type of relationship we had."
The countries that will be hit hardest by a no deal Brexit


thedailyexpress--2020-10-18--Brexit poll: Who is causing trade deal deadlock between UK and EU? VOTE HERE

Boris Johnson and his chief negotiator Lord Frost have accused the EU leadership of `` abandoning the idea of a free trade deal '' before telling the UK it was time to prepare for a no deal Brexit .
But EU leaders and officials said the UK Government was to blame for the faltering talks because of their unwillingness to compromise .
Meanwhile , business leaders have urged both sides to get back around the table to thrash out a deal .
The situation remains tense after Lord Frost told EU negotiator Michel Barnier there was no point coming to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But today Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove insisted the door was still `` ajar '' for post-Brexit trade talks to continue .
Mr Gove accused EU officials of not being serious about making compromises and said they would have to back down if Mr Barnier was to resume negotiations in London .
Asked if the door is still open to talks , he said : `` It is ajar .
We hope the EU will change their position , we 're certainly not saying that if they do change their position we ca @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said `` we are ready if required '' to leave without a trade deal , which he admitted would not `` be a picnic '' .
Mr Gove told Sky 's Sophy Ridge on Sunday the chances of getting a deal are `` less '' than the 66 percent he had previously predicted .
He said : `` It 's less .
I ca n't be precise , but one of the reasons why it 's less is the position that 's been taken in the last couple of weeks by European @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU had refused to work on a detailed legal draft text during negotiations and of not being `` willing to intensify the talks '' while making unacceptable demands on access to British fishing waters .
READ MORE : Brexit LIVE : EU shamed after trying to ‘ run down the clock ’ on Boris Mr Gove said : `` And so that seems to me to be the behaviour of an organisation and an institution that is not serious about making the compromises necessary to secure a deal . ''
Asked if talks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ replied : `` The ball is in his court .
`` We 've made clear that we need to see a change in approach from the European Union .
`` I know that he 'll be calling David Frost over the course of the next few days ; let 's see if the European Union appreciate the importance of reaching a deal and the importance of making ground . ''
On Friday , the Prime Minister 's official spokesman said there was `` no point '' in Mr Barnier travelling to London unless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to alter their position or wanted to discuss sector by sector arrangements to prepare for no deal .
Business leaders said UK and EU negotiators should stop making declarations to the press and get back around the table to secure a Brexit outcome .
British Chambers of Commerce director-general Adam Marshall told Sky News ' Sophy Ridge programme that businesses feel like they are living in a bit of `` pantomime theatre '' between the two sides .
DO N'T MISS Boris ’ s Brexit plot may have 'put US-UK trade deal at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal : UK told to prepare - What is Australia style deal ?
[ FOCUS ] How much will no-deal Brexit cost the UK ?
The staggering estimate [ SPOTLIGHT ]

Brexit: Michael Gove claims ‘the ball is in Barnier’s court’
Boris Johnson and his chief negotiator Lord Frost have accused the EU leadership of "abandoning the idea of a free trade deal" before telling the UK it was time to prepare for a no deal Brexit. But EU leaders and officials said the UK Government was to blame for the faltering talks because of their unwillingness to compromise. Meanwhile, business leaders have urged both sides to get back around the table to thrash out a deal. THIS POLL HAS CLOSED. CLICK HERE FOR RESULTS.
We hope the EU will change their position Michael Gove
The situation remains tense after Lord Frost told EU negotiator Michel Barnier there was no point coming to London for more talks next week. But today Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove insisted the door was still "ajar" for post-Brexit trade talks to continue. Mr Gove accused EU officials of not being serious about making compromises and said they would have to back down if Mr Barnier was to resume negotiations in London. Asked if the door is still open to talks, he said: "It is ajar. We hope the EU will change their position, we're certainly not saying that if they do change their position we can't talk to them."
Who's to blame for the stalled Brexit trade talks?
But he said "we are ready if required" to leave without a trade deal, which he admitted would not "be a picnic". Mr Gove told Sky's Sophy Ridge on Sunday the chances of getting a deal are "less" than the 66 percent he had previously predicted. He said: "It's less. I can't be precise, but one of the reasons why it's less is the position that's been taken in the last couple of weeks by European Union leaders." He said the EU had refused to work on a detailed legal draft text during negotiations and of not being "willing to intensify the talks" while making unacceptable demands on access to British fishing waters. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: EU shamed after trying to ‘run down the clock’ on Boris
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Is Boris Johnson or Michel Barnier responsible for the trade deal deadlock?
Have Emmanuel Macron and Angela Merkel plotted to block a Brexit trade agreement
Mr Gove said: "And so that seems to me to be the behaviour of an organisation and an institution that is not serious about making the compromises necessary to secure a deal." Asked if talks could resume with Mr Barnier, he replied: "The ball is in his court. "We've made clear that we need to see a change in approach from the European Union. "I know that he'll be calling David Frost over the course of the next few days; let's see if the European Union appreciate the importance of reaching a deal and the importance of making ground."
Trending
On Friday, the Prime Minister's official spokesman said there was "no point" in Mr Barnier travelling to London unless the 27 EU member states were willing to alter their position or wanted to discuss sector by sector arrangements to prepare for no deal. Business leaders said UK and EU negotiators should stop making declarations to the press and get back around the table to secure a Brexit outcome. British Chambers of Commerce director-general Adam Marshall told Sky News' Sophy Ridge programme that businesses feel like they are living in a bit of "pantomime theatre" between the two sides. DON'T MISS
Boris’s Brexit plot may have 'put US-UK trade deal at risk'[ANALYSIS]
Brexit trade deal: UK told to prepare - What is Australia style deal?[FOCUS]
How much will no-deal Brexit cost the UK? The staggering estimate[SPOTLIGHT]
Should David Frost or Michel Barnier take the rap for a no deal Brexit?


thedailyexpress--2020-10-18--Macron in last-ditch Brexit punishment with threat to devastate UK with energy blockade

Emmanuel Macron reacted furiously to Boris Johnson 's claims that trade talks are `` over '' between the UK and EU .
Mr Macron has played hardball in the talks on fisheries , insisting on Thursday that French fishermen would `` not be sacrificed '' for the sake of a deal .
However , if the UK leaves the EU without a deal then French fishermen could faced being banned from British waters .
In response , the French President has signalled the EU would launch a devastating energy embargo against the UK unless Boris Johnson gives in on fisheries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Friday , Mr Macron told French radio that if the UK does not allow French fishermen in its waters , the EU would have to block the UK 's energy supplies to the European market .
He suggested the right to fish in British waters was worth 650 million euros to EU fishermen , but that access to European energy markets was worth up to £2.3billion ( €2.5bn ) to the UK .
RTÉ Europe Editor Tony Connelly noted : `` They have tried to up the ante on fishing . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU leaders trying to rescue Brexit talks He explained to the RTE podcast Brexit Republic : `` They have been looking at energy and the fact that the UK still wants to access the Europe 's single energy market by selling their energy , and gas , and electricity into the European grid .
`` That is something that is very valuable to the UK .
Macron confirmed this in his press conference after the summit .
`` So what they are saying is like for like .
They are not saying that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get a deal on fisheries but it will be held hostage .
`` There is definitely a linkage there . ''
He also remarked how Michel Barnier had recently changed his tone , from trying to pressure Mr Macron to back down on fishing to suddenly taking a tough line on fisheries .
Mr Connelly said : `` Barnier changed his tone on fisheries , saying we ca n't sacrifice fishing communities just to get a deal .
He formerly tried to pressure Macron to back down .
`` Member-states know they will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bites moment .
`` But Barnier has to be seen to go in hard , to say they did everything they could . ''
Sadiq Khan sparks stand-off with Boris after rejecting No10 bailout [ INTERVIEW ] Prince Harry and Meghan Markle set to copy William with ‘ similar ’ plan [ VIDEO ] BBC ’ s Andrew Marr snaps at Burnham ahead of crunch Boris call [ VIDEO ]

Brexit: Macron may ‘hold UK hostage’ over energy says expert
Emmanuel Macron reacted furiously to Boris Johnson's claims that trade talks are "over" between the UK and EU. Mr Macron has played hardball in the talks on fisheries, insisting on Thursday that French fishermen would "not be sacrificed" for the sake of a deal. However, if the UK leaves the EU without a deal then French fishermen could faced being banned from British waters.
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In response, the French President has signalled the EU would launch a devastating energy embargo against the UK unless Boris Johnson gives in on fisheries. Following the EU summit in Brussels on Friday, Mr Macron told French radio that if the UK does not allow French fishermen in its waters, the EU would have to block the UK's energy supplies to the European market. He suggested the right to fish in British waters was worth 650 million euros to EU fishermen, but that access to European energy markets was worth up to £2.3billion (€2.5bn) to the UK. RTÉ Europe Editor Tony Connelly noted: "They have tried to up the ante on fishing." JUST IN: Emmanuel Macron isolated by EU leaders trying to rescue Brexit talks
The French President has signalled that the EU would launch a devastating energy embargo against UK
Mr Barnier will seek to use the leverage of the EU's energy market as a potential way of unblocking the UK's resistance on fishing
He explained to the RTE podcast Brexit Republic: "They have been looking at energy and the fact that the UK still wants to access the Europe's single energy market by selling their energy, and gas, and electricity into the European grid. "That is something that is very valuable to the UK. Macron confirmed this in his press conference after the summit. "So what they are saying is like for like. They are not saying that energy will suddenly be held hostage to get a deal on fisheries but it will be held hostage. "There is definitely a linkage there."
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Brexit: Macron 'tough guy act' due to low popularity says expert
Macron reacted furiously to Boris Johnson's claims that trade talks are 'over'
He also remarked how Michel Barnier had recently changed his tone, from trying to pressure Mr Macron to back down on fishing to suddenly taking a tough line on fisheries. Mr Connelly said: "Barnier changed his tone on fisheries, saying we can't sacrifice fishing communities just to get a deal. He formerly tried to pressure Macron to back down. "Member-states know they will lose quota. It is the reality bites moment. "But Barnier has to be seen to go in hard, to say they did everything they could." DON'T MISS: Sadiq Khan sparks stand-off with Boris after rejecting No10 bailout [INTERVIEW]
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle set to copy William with ‘similar’ plan [VIDEO]
BBC’s Andrew Marr snaps at Burnham ahead of crunch Boris call [VIDEO]
French fishermen could faced being banned from British waters


thedailyexpress--2020-10-18--Andy Burnham ready to take Boris to court over lockdown - 'I would do anything'

Boris Johnson has urged leaders in Greater Manchester to `` reconsider and engage constructively '' over Tier 3 restrictions but said he will intervene if an agreement can not be reached .
The Prime Minister put Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham under even greater pressure to agree to new restrictions , saying time was `` of the essence '' .
But Mr Burnham has insisted he would be willing to take legal action as the current furlough and support system is `` not fair '' to low paid workers .
Asked by BBC 's Andrew Marr about the possibility of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I would do anything to protect low paid workers who I think now and very , very close to the edge and I do n't think they can survive on two-thirds wages .
`` The legal challenge applies to that .
`` I think it 's discriminatory on people in the lowest-paid profession to say , 'you have a two-thirds furlough but we paid an 80 percent furlough for people on middle incomes earlier in the year .
`` I do n't think that is fair .
It 's not fair . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 'have cake and eat it ' with Covid demands It comes as Conservative MPs have criticised 20 of their colleagues over a `` very ill judged '' letter targeting Mr Burnham as he resists a lockdown .
A total of 20 Tory MPs , whose constituents are currently under the lowest level of restrictions , wrote an open letter to Mr Burnham and the Labour leader urging them to get the virus `` under control '' in Manchester to avoid the `` pain '' of a national lockdown .
Led by Jerome @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Norfolk , they said : `` We know you are calling for a national lockdown now but urge you to reconsider . ''
They highlighted coronavirus rates that show some of their areas having rates far lower than Manchester 's .
`` Given this disparity , it does not make sense to shut down the whole country when the virus is spiking in particular locations , '' the MPs continued .
`` It is very clear to us - and the people we represent - that the local and regional approach is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We urge you to work with the Government to get the virus under control in Greater Manchester , so we can all avoid the pain of another national lockdown . ''
Senior Conservative William Wragg , whose Hazel Grove constituency is in Greater Manchester , recommended his colleagues `` concern themselves with their own constituencies '' .
Expert sends warning COVID deaths just ‘ tip of the iceberg ’ [ INSIGHT ] SNP to be scrutinised as inquiry to be held into COVID-19 approach [ ANALYSIS ] Remember those cast aside in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ COMMENT ]

Manchester lockdown: Burnham details plan for legal challenge
Boris Johnson has urged leaders in Greater Manchester to "reconsider and engage constructively" over Tier 3 restrictions but said he will intervene if an agreement cannot be reached. The Prime Minister put Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham under even greater pressure to agree to new restrictions, saying time was "of the essence". But Mr Burnham has insisted he would be willing to take legal action as the current furlough and support system is "not fair" to low paid workers.
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Asked by BBC's Andrew Marr about the possibility of legal action, he said: "I would do anything to protect low paid workers who I think now and very, very close to the edge and I don't think they can survive on two-thirds wages. "The legal challenge applies to that. "I think it's discriminatory on people in the lowest-paid profession to say, 'you have a two-thirds furlough but we paid an 80 percent furlough for people on middle incomes earlier in the year. "I don't think that is fair. It's not fair." READ MORE: Labour exposed for trying to 'have cake and eat it' with Covid demands
Andy Burnham has threatened Boris Johnson will a legal battle if the city is plunged into a lockdown
Boris Johnson has urged leaders in Greater Manchester to 'reconsider and engage constructively'
It comes as Conservative MPs have criticised 20 of their colleagues over a "very ill judged" letter targeting Mr Burnham as he resists a lockdown. A total of 20 Tory MPs, whose constituents are currently under the lowest level of restrictions, wrote an open letter to Mr Burnham and the Labour leader urging them to get the virus "under control" in Manchester to avoid the "pain" of a national lockdown. Led by Jerome Mayhew, the MP for Broadland in Norfolk, they said: "We know you are calling for a national lockdown now but urge you to reconsider." They highlighted coronavirus rates that show some of their areas having rates far lower than Manchester's.
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The Prime Minister put Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham under even greater pressure
Michael Gove accuses Labour leaders of lockdown ‘posturing’
"Given this disparity, it does not make sense to shut down the whole country when the virus is spiking in particular locations," the MPs continued. "It is very clear to us - and the people we represent - that the local and regional approach is the right response to the current situation. "We urge you to work with the Government to get the virus under control in Greater Manchester, so we can all avoid the pain of another national lockdown." Senior Conservative William Wragg, whose Hazel Grove constituency is in Greater Manchester, recommended his colleagues "concern themselves with their own constituencies". DON'T MISS Expert sends warning COVID deaths just ‘tip of the iceberg’ [INSIGHT]
SNP to be scrutinised as inquiry to be held into COVID-19 approach [ANALYSIS]
Remember those cast aside in war against Covid-19, warns Charles Levin [COMMENT]
Tiers explained


thedailyexpress--2020-10-18--Michael Gove destroys Labour's lockdown demands with brutal one-word answer

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Michael Gove took Labour 's lockdown demands to task this morning , as he shut them down with a brutal one-word response .
Labour MP Kate Green told Sophy Ridge this morning that the party supports a national circuit-breaker , adding : `` We have to try something different . ''
When Ridge questioned whether a national two-week circuit-breaker was on the cards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ No . ''
Mr Gove said : `` It would seem to me an error to try to impose on every part of the country the same level of restriction when we know the disease is spreading more intensively and quicker in some parts of the country .
`` The nature of the spread of the disease is different in this wave than it was earlier this year .
`` It seems to be wrong to impose restrictions on economic and personal lives in parts of the country where the disease is not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to criticise Sir Keir Starmer for his latest demand for the circuit-breaker , saying the Labour leader appears to `` take a position whenever it suits him '' .
JUST IN : Labour exposed for trying to 'have cake and eat it ' with Covid demands

UK lockdown: Coronavirus cases 'eye-watering' warns expert
Michael Gove took Labour's lockdown demands to task this morning, as he shut them down with a brutal one-word response. Labour MP Kate Green told Sophy Ridge this morning that the party supports a national circuit-breaker, adding: "We have to try something different." When Ridge questioned whether a national two-week circuit-breaker was on the cards, Mr Gove bluntly responded: "No."
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Mr Gove said: "It would seem to me an error to try to impose on every part of the country the same level of restriction when we know the disease is spreading more intensively and quicker in some parts of the country. "The nature of the spread of the disease is different in this wave than it was earlier this year. "It seems to be wrong to impose restrictions on economic and personal lives in parts of the country where the disease is not spreading intensely." He went on to criticise Sir Keir Starmer for his latest demand for the circuit-breaker, saying the Labour leader appears to "take a position whenever it suits him". JUST IN: Labour exposed for trying to 'have cake and eat it' with Covid demands
Gove took Labour's lockdown demands to task this morning, as he shut them down with a single word
Ridge questioned whether a national two-week circuit-breaker was on the cards
Mr Gove said: "Keir Starmer, his political career seems to be built on shifting sands. "People will ask why he is calling for this lockdown now when his own mayor in Greater Manchester is fighting against these measures? "If Labour are serious about the NHS, then Keir would be calling up Andy Burnham and inviting him to accept the need for these measures." Earlier this week, Labour leader Sir Keir hit out at the Government's lockdown strategy as he called for a circuit-breaker in England of two to three weeks.
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Gove went on to criticise Keir Starmer for his latest demand for the circuit-breaker
On Monday, newly released documents revealed that government scientific advisers called for such action three weeks ago. Sir Keir said the circuit-breaker would mean that "all pubs, bars and restaurants would be closed" and compensated "so that no business loses out because of the sacrifices we all need to make". He said the current measures were not working and another course was needed to prevent a "sleepwalk into a bleak winter". DON'T MISS: Brexiteer John Redwood issues scathing message to Michel Barnier [VIDEO]
BBC's Katya Adler exposes Boris shut down Merkel's Brexit wish [INSIGHT]
Manchester lockdown: Lancashire MP shames Burnham for 'blame game' [INTERVIEW]
Labour MP Kate Green told Sophy Ridge this morning that the party supports a national circuit-breaker


thedailyexpress--2020-10-18--EU's 'deliberately absurd positions' laid bare as Brexiteer explodes at bloc - 'No sense!'

Daniel Hannan described the EU 's approach to Brexit as `` bizarre '' and suggested there was a belief in Brussels that Britain might drop the idea of leaving if the terms offered were harsh enough .
Mr Hannan , Tory MEP for South East England from 1999 until the UK 's exit from the EU in 2020 , was speaking after trade talks between the two sides collapsed .
Britain rebuffed Brussels ' offer of intensified trade talks next week and told the EU chief negotiator there was `` no basis for negotiations '' .
Boris Johnson accused European @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a free trade deal '' and told the UK to `` get ready '' for a no deal outcome in the negotiations after his October 15 deadline for reaching an agreement passed .
The Prime Minister 's official spokesman said there was `` no point '' in EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier travelling to London unless the 27 member states were willing to alter their position or wanted to discuss sector by sector arrangements to prepare for no deal .
The hardening of Britain 's stance came after EU leaders agreed summit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` the necessary moves to make an agreement possible '' without any suggestion of EU concessions .
The two sides have been at loggerheads for months over the issues of future fishing rights and state aid rules .
Mr Johnson said : `` We 've got to a stage , alas , where they do n't seem to want to progress a free trade deal .
`` That was pretty clear from the conclusions of the summit .
They do n't want to go any further . ''
READ MORE : Brexit LIVE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ run down the clock ’ on Boris Commenting on the talks , Mr Hannan said : `` I assumed that , when it came to it , the EU would prioritise the economic interests of its 27 members .
I was wrong .
`` By sticking to a number of deliberately absurd positions – including demanding British fish as a sort of leaving fee – Brussels has effectively collapsed the talks .
`` There will be no trade deal . ''
Mr Hannan said the EU 's position throughout the lengthy trade talks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ faith and that Brussels was sticking to the French line on fishing despite suspicions Emmanuel Macron was looking for an excuse to sabotage the talks to save face with his angry trawlermen .
Writing in The Daily Telegraph said : `` The French position on fisheries – the UK should be treated as a third country in every other respect , but should remain fully subject to the Common Fisheries Policy – is seen as preposterous by every neutral observer and by most of the EU .
`` It does not even make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Britain is offering French vessels a phased and partial reduction in access to our waters , not complete exclusion .
`` But if there is no deal , there will be zero access for French skippers – who currently land 84 percent of all the cod caught in the Channel . ''
DO N'T MISS Brexit climbdown : Theresa May 's deal 'designed to let UK rejoin EU ' [ ANALYSIS ] Brexit fishing row : Macron warned against making HUGE gamble [ SPOTLIGHT ] Boris has reached the right solution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ]

Brexit: EU ‘don’t want' UK to succeed says David Davis
Daniel Hannan described the EU's approach to Brexit as "bizarre" and suggested there was a belief in Brussels that Britain might drop the idea of leaving if the terms offered were harsh enough. Mr Hannan, Tory MEP for South East England from 1999 until the UK's exit from the EU in 2020, was speaking after trade talks between the two sides collapsed.
By sticking to a number of deliberately absurd positions Brussels has effectively collapsed the talks Daniel Hannan
Britain rebuffed Brussels' offer of intensified trade talks next week and told the EU chief negotiator there was "no basis for negotiations". Boris Johnson accused European leaders of having "abandoned the idea of a free trade deal" and told the UK to "get ready" for a no deal outcome in the negotiations after his October 15 deadline for reaching an agreement passed. The Prime Minister's official spokesman said there was "no point" in EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier travelling to London unless the 27 member states were willing to alter their position or wanted to discuss sector by sector arrangements to prepare for no deal.
The EU's position on Brexit talks has been branded 'absurd'
The hardening of Britain's stance came after EU leaders agreed summit conclusions calling on the UK to make "the necessary moves to make an agreement possible" without any suggestion of EU concessions. The two sides have been at loggerheads for months over the issues of future fishing rights and state aid rules. Mr Johnson said: "We've got to a stage, alas, where they don't seem to want to progress a free trade deal. "That was pretty clear from the conclusions of the summit. They don't want to go any further." READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: EU shamed after trying to ‘run down the clock’ on Boris
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Boris Johnson has told Britain to prepare for a no deal Brexit
David Frost and Michel Barnier will talk next week despite the collapse of trade negotiations
Commenting on the talks, Mr Hannan said: "I assumed that, when it came to it, the EU would prioritise the economic interests of its 27 members. I was wrong. "By sticking to a number of deliberately absurd positions – including demanding British fish as a sort of leaving fee – Brussels has effectively collapsed the talks. "There will be no trade deal." Mr Hannan said the EU's position throughout the lengthy trade talks proved it was not negotiating in good faith and that Brussels was sticking to the French line on fishing despite suspicions Emmanuel Macron was looking for an excuse to sabotage the talks to save face with his angry trawlermen.
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Writing in The Daily Telegraph said: "The French position on fisheries – the UK should be treated as a third country in every other respect, but should remain fully subject to the Common Fisheries Policy – is seen as preposterous by every neutral observer and by most of the EU. "It does not even make sense in terms of narrow French interests. "Britain is offering French vessels a phased and partial reduction in access to our waters, not complete exclusion. "But if there is no deal, there will be zero access for French skippers – who currently land 84 percent of all the cod caught in the Channel." DON'T MISS
Brexit climbdown: Theresa May's deal 'designed to let UK rejoin EU'[ANALYSIS]
Brexit fishing row: Macron warned against making HUGE gamble[SPOTLIGHT]
Boris has reached the right solution on Brexit says NIGEL FARAGE[OPINION]
Former MEP Daniel Hannan has accused the EU of treating the UK like a renegade province


thedailyexpress--2020-10-18--Liverpool mayor vows to stand 'shoulder to shoulder' with Andy Burnham amid lockdown rows

Steve Rotheram hit out at Boris Johnson for using his name `` inappropriately '' in an attempt to tear him and Andy Burnham apart , he claimed .
But he said he will stand `` shoulder to shoulder '' with the Manchester mayor as he fights to stop the city from Tier 3 restrictions .
Mr Burnham has said a furlough scheme for affected workers must be in place before businesses are forced to shut .
Speaking to LBC , Mr Rotheram said : `` If I have a pound for every time that I 've had my name inappropriately @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is it 's an attempt to divide and conquer .
`` By using me it looks like they 've done something , why are n't other people doing the same thing ?
`` I know what it 's about .
It 's about seeing whether they can prize myself and Andy Burnham apart .
READ MORE : Sadiq Khan sparks stand-off with Boris after rejecting No10 bailout '' But let me tell you , there 's no chance of that happening .
`` Myself and Andy Burnham will stand shoulder to shoulder .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Manchester is the right thing for them .
`` What we 're doing here is the right thing for the Liverpool City Region and the 1.6 million people that I represent . ''
His comments come as Mr Burnham hit back at a `` group of southern '' Tory MPs who angered Conservative colleagues by calling for the Greater Manchester Mayor to `` engage '' with the Government 's lockdown measures to prevent further restrictions in their constituencies .
He said on Sunday that the `` we 're alright Jack '' letter from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lowest form of coronavirus restriction would not `` cut much ice here '' .
The Labour mayor and Tory politicians in the region are opposing Tier 3 restrictions for Greater Manchester without greater financial support from the Treasury for workers and business .
Mr Burnham has also joined Sir Keir Starmer in favouring a short national lockdown , arguing it would be fairer and would get his constituents ' greater support .
BBC ’ s Andrew Marr snaps at Burnham ahead of crunch Boris call [ VIDEO ] Remember those cast aside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Levin [ OPINION ] Nottingham lockdown : Is Nottingham going into Tier 3 ?
[ ANALYSIS ]

Steve Rotheram pledges support to Burnham over lockdown
Steve Rotheram hit out at Boris Johnson for using his name "inappropriately" in an attempt to tear him and Andy Burnham apart, he claimed. But he said he will stand "shoulder to shoulder" with the Manchester mayor as he fights to stop the city from Tier 3 restrictions. Mr Burnham has said a furlough scheme for affected workers must be in place before businesses are forced to shut.
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Speaking to LBC, Mr Rotheram said: "If I have a pound for every time that I've had my name inappropriately used. "What is actually happening is it's an attempt to divide and conquer. "By using me it looks like they've done something, why aren't other people doing the same thing? "I know what it's about. It's about seeing whether they can prize myself and Andy Burnham apart. READ MORE: Sadiq Khan sparks stand-off with Boris after rejecting No10 bailout
teve Rotheram has vowed to stand 'should to shoulder' with Andy Burnham
Steve Rotheram hit out at Boris Johnson for trying to tear him apart from Andy Bunrham
"But let me tell you, there's no chance of that happening. "Myself and Andy Burnham will stand shoulder to shoulder. "What he is doing for Greater Manchester is the right thing for them. "What we're doing here is the right thing for the Liverpool City Region and the 1.6 million people that I represent."
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Boris Johnson as urged leaders in the northwest to work together with the tier system
Kate Green grilled on Labour’s lockdown stance by Sophy Ridge
His comments come as Mr Burnham hit back at a "group of southern" Tory MPs who angered Conservative colleagues by calling for the Greater Manchester Mayor to "engage" with the Government's lockdown measures to prevent further restrictions in their constituencies. He said on Sunday that the "we're alright Jack" letter from 20 Conservatives whose areas are currently under the lowest form of coronavirus restriction would not "cut much ice here". The Labour mayor and Tory politicians in the region are opposing Tier 3 restrictions for Greater Manchester without greater financial support from the Treasury for workers and business. Mr Burnham has also joined Sir Keir Starmer in favouring a short national lockdown, arguing it would be fairer and would get his constituents' greater support. DON'T MISS BBC’s Andrew Marr snaps at Burnham ahead of crunch Boris call [VIDEO]
Remember those cast aside in war against Covid-19, warns Charles Levin [OPINION]
Nottingham lockdown: Is Nottingham going into Tier 3? [ANALYSIS]
Tiers explained


thedailyexpress--2020-10-18--Sadiq Khan mocked for 'copying' Burnham as London Mayor tries to set up Boris showdown

Sadiq Khan has rejected Boris Johnson 's offer of a £1billion bailout for London 's struggling transport network .
The London Mayor has said that Government 's offer on the table is not good enough , and he `` would n't support '' it .
Coronavirus has seen Transport for London ( TfL ) plunge into a financial blackhole with transport use crashing by 90 percent .
It is understood that the Government attached conditions to its £1billion TfL bailout , including a fare hike and free travel being taken away from the under-18s and pensioners .
Sadiq Khan also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to extend congestion zone into London suburbs .
Speaking to LBC , Mr Khan vented his frustration that a deal has not been reached .
He said : `` I do n't think you should punish Londoners for doing the right thing or adding conditions to us that you do n't attach to others . ''
JUST IN : Sadiq Khan shamed for demanding restrictions - then blames Government He added : `` I 've been quite clear , taking away free travel for the under-18s is not something that I would support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government works with us , its in both of out interests to get TfL running . ''
The need for cash comes as the previous grant , issued in May , ran out this weekend .
However , the Government provided an 11th hour bailout that will keep trains , tubes and buses running for another two weeks while talks continue .
Mr Khan continued : `` I 'm annoyed that it 's taken us until this week to get into proper negotiations .
`` We were ready earlier to negotiate a new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the deal we had for six months was a sticking plaster .
`` We need a sustainable deal , bearing in mind for the foreseeable future we will not see five million journeys on our tube or five and a half million on our buses .
`` I 'm hoping the Government does right by Londoners who by the way have done the right thing by following the rules .
`` I 'm not someone who goes round regularly saying that London contributes far more to our country 's prosperity than they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government to be saying they do n't think London 's transport authority should be subsidised by the government does n't reflect the facts . ''
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle accused of COPYING Prince William [ VIDEO ] BBC ’ s Andrew Marr snaps at Burnham ahead of crunch Boris call [ INTERVIEW ] BBC 's Katya Adler exposes Boris shut down Merkel 's Brexit wish [ INSIGHT ]

Sadiq Khan says he's 'annoyed' over TfL bailout fund talks
Sadiq Khan has rejected Boris Johnson's offer of a £1billion bailout for London's struggling transport network. The London Mayor has said that Government's offer on the table is not good enough, and he "wouldn't support" it. Coronavirus has seen Transport for London (TfL) plunge into a financial blackhole with transport use crashing by 90 percent.
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It is understood that the Government attached conditions to its £1billion TfL bailout, including a fare hike and free travel being taken away from the under-18s and pensioners. Sadiq Khan also revealed that ministers are demanding he agrees to extend congestion zone into London suburbs. Speaking to LBC, Mr Khan vented his frustration that a deal has not been reached. He said: "I don't think you should punish Londoners for doing the right thing or adding conditions to us that you don't attach to others." JUST IN: Sadiq Khan shamed for demanding restrictions - then blames Government
Sadiq Khan has rejected Boris Johnson's offer of a £1bn bailout for London's struggling TfL
Khan also came under fire after he demanded more than £29billion Government funding for London
He added: "I've been quite clear, taking away free travel for the under-18s is not something that I would support and so its really important that the government works with us, its in both of out interests to get TfL running." The need for cash comes as the previous grant, issued in May, ran out this weekend. However, the Government provided an 11th hour bailout that will keep trains, tubes and buses running for another two weeks while talks continue. Mr Khan continued: "I'm annoyed that it's taken us until this week to get into proper negotiations.
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The Government provided an 11th hour bailout that will keep trains, tubes and buses running for another two weeks
Sadiq Khan slammed by Bailey for his 'catastrophic' decisions
"We were ready earlier to negotiate a new deal. I said back in May that the deal we had for six months was a sticking plaster. "We need a sustainable deal, bearing in mind for the foreseeable future we will not see five million journeys on our tube or five and a half million on our buses. "I'm hoping the Government does right by Londoners who by the way have done the right thing by following the rules. "I'm not someone who goes round regularly saying that London contributes far more to our country's prosperity than they give to us, and for the government to be saying they don't think London's transport authority should be subsidised by the government doesn't reflect the facts." DON'T MISS: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle accused of COPYING Prince William [VIDEO]
BBC’s Andrew Marr snaps at Burnham ahead of crunch Boris call [INTERVIEW]
BBC's Katya Adler exposes Boris shut down Merkel's Brexit wish [INSIGHT]
Conservative mayoral candidate Shaun Bailey accused Mr Khan of bankrupting the transport service


thedailyexpress--2020-10-18--SNP to be scrutinised as inquiry to be held into COVID-19 approach - ‘It’s vital!’

MSPs will hold an inquiry into the Scottish Parliament 's working practices during the coronavirus pandemic with a view to making permanent changes to its rules .
It will also look into the Parliament 's ability to scrutinise the work of the Scottish Government in the context of COVID-19 .
It comes amid mounting pressure on Nicola Sturgeon and the Scottish Government over their commitment to the pandemic .
Bill Kidd MSP , Holyrood 's Standards , Procedures and Public Appointments Committee convenor , said : `` The past seven months have seen extraordinary changes to the working practices of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be made urgently through absolute necessity .
`` This inquiry will seek to evaluate the effectiveness of Holyrood 's recent working practices and review our capacity to scrutinise the government and to hold it to account during this time of crisis .
`` Our intention will be to make procedural recommendations that promote the future resilience of the Parliament . ''
Patrick Harvie MSP , co-leader of the Scottish Greens and deputy convenor , said : `` Having the opportunity to scrutinise the government of the day and hold it to account @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , therefore , we look back on the last seven months and learn from that experience what worked well , what should be replicated and what can be improved upon as a Parliament . ''
At the same time , opposition politicians and business leaders have called on Nicola Sturgeon to commit to holding a public inquiry following a number of controversial decisions .
Richard Leonard called on ministers to ensure that any COVID-19 inquiry in Scotland investigates decisions to send students to university campuses during the pandemic on the basis of human @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaflets urge children to speak out The decision led to outbreaks across Scottish Universities including Glasgow and Dundee .
Mr Leonard said : “ In spite of evidence suggesting that it was not safe , the Scottish government gave universities the green light to bring all students back to campuses .
“ They have faced shambolically confusing guidance , unacceptable and avoidable anxieties , and a regime of disproportionately punitive rules.
” Robert Kilgour , Renaissance Care executive chairman , added that a `` swift inquiry '' was needed now .
DO N'T @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's virtual Parliament demands [ REVEAL ] SNP accused of 'wasting time ' after latest figures sparks fury [ LATEST ] Unelected Lords attempt to meddle in Boris ' Brexit trade plan [ INSIGHT ]

Sturgeon slammed for 'highest UK care home deaths' by Ross
MSPs will hold an inquiry into the Scottish Parliament's working practices during the coronavirus pandemic with a view to making permanent changes to its rules. It will also look into the Parliament's ability to scrutinise the work of the Scottish Government in the context of COVID-19.
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It comes amid mounting pressure on Nicola Sturgeon and the Scottish Government over their commitment to the pandemic. Bill Kidd MSP, Holyrood's Standards, Procedures and Public Appointments Committee convenor, said: "The past seven months have seen extraordinary changes to the working practices of the Scottish Parliament - changes that had to be made urgently through absolute necessity. "This inquiry will seek to evaluate the effectiveness of Holyrood's recent working practices and review our capacity to scrutinise the government and to hold it to account during this time of crisis. "Our intention will be to make procedural recommendations that promote the future resilience of the Parliament."
The report has been delayed by several weeks
Opposition politicians have demanded an inquiry
Patrick Harvie MSP, co-leader of the Scottish Greens and deputy convenor, said: "Having the opportunity to scrutinise the government of the day and hold it to account is vital. "It's important, therefore, we look back on the last seven months and learn from that experience what worked well, what should be replicated and what can be improved upon as a Parliament." At the same time, opposition politicians and business leaders have called on Nicola Sturgeon to commit to holding a public inquiry following a number of controversial decisions. Richard Leonard called on ministers to ensure that any COVID-19 inquiry in Scotland investigates decisions to send students to university campuses during the pandemic on the basis of human rights. READ MORE: Smacking ban leaflets urge children to speak out
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A COVID outbreak occurred at Glasgow University
The decision led to outbreaks across Scottish Universities including Glasgow and Dundee. Mr Leonard said: “In spite of evidence suggesting that it was not safe, the Scottish government gave universities the green light to bring all students back to campuses. “They have faced shambolically confusing guidance, unacceptable and avoidable anxieties, and a regime of disproportionately punitive rules.” Robert Kilgour, Renaissance Care executive chairman, added that a "swift inquiry" was needed now. DON'T MISS:
Jacob Rees-Mogg snaps at SNP's virtual Parliament demands [REVEAL]
SNP accused of 'wasting time' after latest figures sparks fury [LATEST]
Unelected Lords attempt to meddle in Boris' Brexit trade plan [INSIGHT]
Scottish health boards discharged COVID patients into care homes


thedailyexpress--2020-10-18--BBC’s Andrew Marr snaps at Burnham ahead of crunch Boris call - 'You have to give ground!'

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Andy Burnham sparked a stand-off with Boris Johnson this week after he resisted govenrment calls for Tier 3 restrictions for the Greater Manchester region .
The Mayor of Greater Manchester demanded greater financial support for workers , prompting Mr Johnson to warn he may have to `` intervene '' and unilaterally impose a Tier 3 lockdown unless Mr Burnham backs down .
Andrew @ @ @ @ @ @ @ insisting the Labour Mayor had to `` give ground '' and `` compromise '' with Downing Street .
Mr Marr said : `` If there is going to be some conclusion to this argument you have to give some ground , surely .
`` You ca n't simply say 'give us our money or we wo n't talk ' .
What is your compromise ? ''
Mr Burnham denied that his stand-off with the Prime Minister was about pressuring the Government for a `` big cheque '' .
He said : `` It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our money , that we are just doing this for a big cheque . ''
JUST IN : Michael Gove destroys Labour 's lockdown demands with one word

Manchester lockdown: Burnham accused of 'blame game' by MP
Andy Burnham sparked a stand-off with Boris Johnson this week after he resisted govenrment calls for Tier 3 restrictions for the Greater Manchester region. The Mayor of Greater Manchester demanded greater financial support for workers, prompting Mr Johnson to warn he may have to "intervene" and unilaterally impose a Tier 3 lockdown unless Mr Burnham backs down. Andrew Marr hit out at Mr Burnham, insisting the Labour Mayor had to "give ground" and "compromise" with Downing Street.
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Mr Marr said: "If there is going to be some conclusion to this argument you have to give some ground, surely. "You can't simply say 'give us our money or we won't talk'. What is your compromise?" Mr Burnham denied that his stand-off with the Prime Minister was about pressuring the Government for a "big cheque". He said: "It's not a case of give us our money, that we are just doing this for a big cheque." JUST IN: Michael Gove destroys Labour's lockdown demands with one word
Andrew Marr hit out at Mr Burnham, insisting the Labour Mayor had to 'give ground'
Burnham did confirm to Andrew Marr that he is expecting to speak to Sir Edward Lister later today
Mr Burnham added: "It is about people. It's about people's lives, businesses and homes, Andrew." In his interview, Mr Burnham accused the Prime Minister of exaggerating the coronavirus situation in Greater Manchester. He told the BBC: "It's a serious situation but I don't think it was the situation described by the Prime Minister." Mr Burnham also refused to rule out a legal challenge to the Tier 3 lockdown, saying: "I would do anything to protect lower paid workers."
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Burnham accused the Prime Minister of exaggerating the coronavirus situation in Greater Manchester
Earlier today, local leaders denied Downing Street's claim that talks have been arranged to resolve a row. No10 told the BBC it had arranged a call with Mr Burnham, on Sunday morning - but Mr Burnham's office said no such call had been scheduled. However, Mr Burnham did confirm to Andrew Marr that he is expecting to speak to Sir Edward Lister later today to see if a deal can be thrashed out on local lockdown. DON'T MISS; Brexiteer John Redwood issues scathing message to Michel Barnier [INTERVIEW]
BBC's Katya Adler exposes Boris shut down Merkel's Brexit wish [INSIGHT]
Labour exposed for trying to 'have cake and eat it' with Covid demands [VIDEO]
Andrew Marr rebuked Andy Burnham in a tense interview this morning