thedailyexpress--2020-09-04--Tory civil war: Backbench MPs plot to VOTE DOWN Chancellor’s Budget amid tax rise fears

Several influential backbench Tory MPs , including Sir Graham Brady and Sir John Redwood , have publicly raised serious concerns over the impact of tax rises on Britons across the country .
Behind closed-doors , one former minister has revealed they will vote down a budget involving a hike in tax , and insisted fellow disgruntled parliamentarians are “ going absolutely insane ” in private group chats .
The coronavirus pandemic has plunged the UK into a recession with national debt rising above £2trillion for the first time since the 1960s .
This has led to reports corporation tax could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and pension tax relief cut .
Leading economists have also told the Treasury select committee an increase income tax , national insurance or VAT could also be necessary .
As divisions grow within the Tory ranks , Mr Sunak and Boris Johnson met with the new crop of Tory MPs elected in December , amid growing fears their constituents in former Labour-held seats could be most affected by economic policy .
The Chancellor told the group there would be “ difficult ” decisions ahead , but insisted it did not mean “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Despite the Tories commanding a 79-seat majority in the Commons , there is growing fears the Budget could be voted down .
A former Tory minister told The Telegraph : `` I wo n't be voting for the Budget , I am not voting to put taxes up on entrepreneurs so people can eat half price f*g burgers .
“ Tory MPs are going absolutely insane in the backbench WhatsApp group . ''
Sir Graham Brady , the chairman of the Conservative backbench 1922 committee , has told the Chancellor to be `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He said : “ The necessity is to make sure we don ’ t make this crisis any worse than it has to be .
“ We have to be aware that raising taxes , and raising the wrong types of taxes especially , can be a way in which you stifle economic growth and prospects rather than guaranteeing them .
READ MORE : Coronavirus map LIVE : Leeds to be added to lockdown watch list “ I think we should be very , very cautious in exploring tax increases.
” Mr Redwood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's Treasury group , added the Chancellor should look at `` tax cuts , not increases '' .
At the crunch meeting with the recruits of Tory MPs on Wednesday , Mr Sunak stressed his aim is to create “ dynamic ” and “ low tax economy ” , but insisted he needed to be “ honest ” with the public about the economic situation .
Brexit LIVE : Boris Johnson puts chance of deal at just 30 % [ LIVE ] North East England lockdown : Areas at risk of lockdown as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weather forecast : Soaring September heat to bake UK NEXT WEEK [ FORECAST ]

UK recession: Rishi Sunak says 'hard times are here'
Several influential backbench Tory MPs, including Sir Graham Brady and Sir John Redwood, have publicly raised serious concerns over the impact of tax rises on Britons across the country. Behind closed-doors, one former minister has revealed they will vote down a budget involving a hike in tax, and insisted fellow disgruntled parliamentarians are “going absolutely insane” in private group chats.
Trending
The coronavirus pandemic has plunged the UK into a recession with national debt rising above £2trillion for the first time since the 1960s. This has led to reports corporation tax could be raised, capital gains tax increased, and pension tax relief cut. Leading economists have also told the Treasury select committee an increase income tax, national insurance or VAT could also be necessary. As divisions grow within the Tory ranks, Mr Sunak and Boris Johnson met with the new crop of Tory MPs elected in December, amid growing fears their constituents in former Labour-held seats could be most affected by economic policy.
Rishi Sunak could see his Autumn Budget voted down
The debt in the UK has soared above £2 trillion
The Chancellor told the group there would be “difficult” decisions ahead, but insisted it did not mean “horror show of tax rises”. Despite the Tories commanding a 79-seat majority in the Commons, there is growing fears the Budget could be voted down. A former Tory minister told The Telegraph: "I won't be voting for the Budget, I am not voting to put taxes up on entrepreneurs so people can eat half price f*g burgers. “Tory MPs are going absolutely insane in the backbench WhatsApp group."
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Rishi Sunak and Boris Johnson met with new Tory MPs on Wednesday
Sir Graham Brady, the chairman of the Conservative backbench 1922 committee, has told the Chancellor to be "very cautious" about tax increases. He said: “The necessity is to make sure we don’t make this crisis any worse than it has to be. “We have to be aware that raising taxes, and raising the wrong types of taxes especially, can be a way in which you stifle economic growth and prospects rather than guaranteeing them. READ MORE: Coronavirus map LIVE: Leeds to be added to lockdown watch list
John Redwood has warned against tax rises
Rishi Sunak insisted there would not be a 'horror show of tax rises'


thedailyexpress--2020-09-05--Brexit LIVE: Frost furiously REJECTS EU demand for veto on UK laws - trade row erupts

The doubts have been cast so much that UK government officials have also warned that the EU will demand a potential veto on Britain 's post-Brexit laws and regulations .
A Whitehall source said : “ What they want is that if we change our law in terms of things like environmental or social protections — they want us to go to them first and allow them to object and to potentially go through arbitration before we actually do it .
“ We are saying we must have the right to be able to do it and if they think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they can trigger the dispute resolution mechanism .
`` It is basically the WTO model .
No deal is better than compromising on certain areas .
.
.
this is not an agreement at any cost.
” However Boris Johnson has insisted the UK will `` prosper mightily '' without a trade deal with the EU in a warning to Brussels .
The Prime Minister said during a visit to Solihull yesterday : `` We 're ready for any eventuality , of course .
But we must make sure that people understand that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whatever happens , we are leaving the EU .
`` We will get through this .
It 's vital that our partners understand that the UK is going to do what we need to do .
`` If we need to have an Australia-style deal , an Australia-style solution , then that is what we will achieve and we will prosper mightily one way or the other .
`` They could be sensible and give us a Canada-style solution , which after all they 've given Canada , and I very much hope @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for either eventuality . ''
Britain 's chief Brexit negotiator David Frost said the European Union 's stance over state aid and fisheries may limit the progress that can be made in key talks next week .
Frost said Britain had been clear from the beginning about what it could accept in those areas , which he said were `` fundamental to our status as an independent country '' .
He said on Twitter : `` We will negotiate constructively but the EU 's stance may , realistically , limit the progress we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ update : Should Boris Johnson walk away now with no deal as trade talks at deadlock ?
- Poll Hopes of a Brexit breakthrough at the next round of trade talks between the EU and the UK are severe declining as last week 's meeting between Michel Barnier and David Frost produced no fruit .
So we are asking our readers whether Boris Johnson walk away now with no deal ?
You can vote by clicking here 11am update : UK heading to towards 75 percent chance of no deal – EU stubbornness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) The UK could be heading towards a no deal Brexit as it is “ highly unlikely ” the EU will change its fundamental negotiating principles , a think tank has warned .
Brussels-based European Policy Centre ( EPC ) has poured cold water on hopes the EU ’ s position will move on key red lines as the deadline to reach a trade deal before the end of the transition period fast approaches .
While the “ mood music has improved ” the group argued “ progress remains extremely limited ” and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has failed to generate fresh momentum ” .
The think tank set out five scenarios which were likely to occur as a result of ongoing negotiations between Michel Barnier and David Frost .
The EU is demanding a potential veto on Britain 's post-Brexit laws and regulations , it has been suggested this morning .
Governemnts sources suggest that the EU 's chief negotiator , Michel Barnier , is said to be insisting that London must agree not to implement any change to UK legislation that could distort trade with the bloc without @ @ @ @ @ @ @ counterpart , David Frost , has rejected the approach however .
EU diplomats said earlier that Barnier went to London on Tuesday to tell Frost Britain must move on state aid , or there will not be a Brexit agreement .
The chances of Britain leaving the European Union without a trade deal have risen sharply as negotiations have been threatened by London 's insistence that it have full autonomy over its state aid plans .
Former Australian prime minister Tony Abbott says he is looking forward to contributing his `` expertise '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his new role as adviser to the UK Board of Trade .
Mr Abbott 's appointment has sparked a heated reaction in some quarters , with critics saying he is well known for holding misogynistic and homophobic views , as well as drawing attention to his scepticism on climate change .
After Prime Minister Boris Johnson came out in support of the 62-year-old , Mr Abbott - who led Australia from 2013-15 - said he was `` only too keen '' to help the UK and looked forward to helping facilitate trade deals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including Australia '' .
Mr Abbott said in a statement on Twitter : `` A UK-Australia trade deal , maximising the movement of goods , services and people is clearly in the best interests of both our countries .
`` It 's important for the wider world that Britain make the most of its post-Brexit opportunities and I am proud to be playing a part . ''

Nigel Farage warns Boris Johnson of ‘betrayal of Brexit’
EU insiders said they expect “very little progress” to be made at next week’s discussions after both sides refused to be drawn into a deal on fisheries. Brussels has demanded guaranteed access to British waters for member states, a major red line for the UK in trade talks.
Trending
The doubts have been cast so much that UK government officials have also warned that the EU will demand a potential veto on Britain's post-Brexit laws and regulations. A Whitehall source said: “What they want is that if we change our law in terms of things like environmental or social protections — they want us to go to them first and allow them to object and to potentially go through arbitration before we actually do it. “We are saying we must have the right to be able to do it and if they think it distorts trade afterwards that is when they can trigger the dispute resolution mechanism. "It is basically the WTO model. No deal is better than compromising on certain areas . . . this is not an agreement at any cost.”
The EU has cast doubts over a deal being reached next week
However Boris Johnson has insisted the UK will "prosper mightily" without a trade deal with the EU in a warning to Brussels. The Prime Minister said during a visit to Solihull yesterday: "We're ready for any eventuality, of course. But we must make sure that people understand that at the end of the year, whatever happens, we are leaving the EU. "We will get through this. It's vital that our partners understand that the UK is going to do what we need to do. "If we need to have an Australia-style deal, an Australia-style solution, then that is what we will achieve and we will prosper mightily one way or the other. "They could be sensible and give us a Canada-style solution, which after all they've given Canada, and I very much hope they will, but we're ready for either eventuality." FOLLOW EXPRESS.CO.UK BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES:
Brexit timeline revealed
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
8.26pm update: Gibraltar CAN strike EU deal even if UK-EU trade talks fail Gibraltar can "easily" strike a deal with the EU mapping out their future relationship even if David Frost and Michel Barnier fail to reach an agreement, the Rock's Chief Minister Fabian Picardo has insisted. A fresh round of talks is due to get underway between UK negotiator Mr Frost and Mr Barnier, his EU counterpart - but both sides are pessimistic about the possibility of a breakthrough, with the sides some way apart on key issues including fishing rights and state aid. Mr Picardo maintained the best result for everyone involved - the UK, Gibraltar, and the EU - was a deal "at all levels". However, he also insisted a "differentiated" agreement with Gibraltar was possible.
EU Brexit chief negotiator Michel Barnier with his UK counterpart David Frost
7.23pm update: Kezia Dugdale claims Brexit has boosted Scottish independence bid Former Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale has claimed Brexit has swelled support for Scottish independence. Ms Dugdale said there will "unquestionably be a second independence referendum" if the SNP wins a majority at the Scottish Parliament elections in May. And she said there has been a "considerable shift" from No to Yes in polls in the past few months. Speaking at an event in her role as the director of the John Smith Centre for Politics and Public Service, she said: "All the arguments around economic security that made people vote No last time have been quashed by Brexit, because they are all predominately remain voters who feel very aggrieved by Brexit." 6.42pm update: France dismisses Barnier reports as 'fake news' France has denied the European Union's Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier was about to be sidelined by EU leaders in a bid to break the deadlock in trade talks. Twisting a famous British war slogan, European affairs minister Clement Beaune tweeted on Saturday: "Keep calm and support Michel Barnier". Mr Beaune dismissed reports European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen was to pave the way for heads of EU countries to intervene in the talks as "fake news". He said: "Obviously, full support to Michel Barnier and his mandate!" The chances of Britain leaving the EU without a trade deal have risen sharply as negotiations have been threatened by London's refusal to surrender full autonomy over state aid.
Former Australian prime minister Tony Abbot has joined Britain's Brexit trade team
5.38pm update: Brexiteer mocks Tony Abbott critics Brexiteer Martin Daubney has mocked critics of new UK trade advisor Tony Abbott. The former Brexit Party MEP tweeted: "Is anybody else warming to Tony Abbott because the Guardian, Nicola Sturgeon, Labour and the entirety of Easily Offended Twitter are so against him? "It’s a key moment. Perhaps cancel culture is actually starting to do the precise opposite?" Mr Abbot, a former Australian prime minister, has joined Britain's Brexit trade negotiating team. 4.45pm update: Former diplomat backs appointment of Tony Abbott to Brexit trade team A former Australian high commissioner to the UK has backed the appointment of ex-PM Tony Abbott to Britain's Brexit trade team and said the arguments against his ally did not "stack up". Alexander Downer told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "He is not a misogynist, he has appointed many women to positions - he was appointed to this position by a woman. "I don't think it stacks up, I think it's just party politicking." The Department for International Trade formally announced Mr Abbott would form part of the new-look Board of Trade, in what is said to be an unpaid role.
Michel Barnier arriving for Brexit talks
3.38pm update: Brussels bosses back Barnier amid claims of trade talks rift Brussels bosses have insisted chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier has the full support of EU leaders amid reports some member states wanted to take over trade negotiations to try to end the deadlock. EU spokesman Sebastian Fischer said: "Whoever wants to engage with the EU on Brexit needs to engage with Michel Barnier. "He is the EU’s Brexit chief negotiator and enjoys the full trust, support and confidence of the EU27. "He has a proven track record of leading successful Brexit negotiations on behalf of the EU." 3.16pm update: Farage questions Barnier's priorites over Brexit deal Nigel Farage has accused EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier of "caring more about Brussels" than companies and workers within the European. The Brexit Party leader's comments amid claims EU leaders were considering sidelining Mr Barnier in the hope of reaching a trade deal with the UK. Mr Farage tweeted: "Barnier always cared more about Brussels and the EU project than companies and workers in the member States. "His sidelining means common sense and a trade deal now have a real chance."
Trending
1:45pm update: Limits on next weeks Brexit talks Britain's chief Brexit negotiator David Frost said the European Union's stance over state aid and fisheries may limit the progress that can be made in key talks next week. Frost said Britain had been clear from the beginning about what it could accept in those areas, which he said were "fundamental to our status as an independent country". He said on Twitter: "We will negotiate constructively but the EU's stance may, realistically, limit the progress we can make next week." 12:15pm update: Should Boris Johnson walk away now with no deal as trade talks at deadlock? - Poll Hopes of a Brexit breakthrough at the next round of trade talks between the EU and the UK are severe declining as last week's meeting between Michel Barnier and David Frost produced no fruit. So we are asking our readers whether Boris Johnson walk away now with no deal? You can vote by clicking here
11am update: UK heading to towards 75 percent chance of no deal – EU stubbornness to blame on key positions (EPC) The UK could be heading towards a no deal Brexit as it is “highly unlikely” the EU will change its fundamental negotiating principles, a think tank has warned. Brussels-based European Policy Centre (EPC) has poured cold water on hopes the EU’s position will move on key red lines as the deadline to reach a trade deal before the end of the transition period fast approaches. While the “mood music has improved” the group argued “progress remains extremely limited” and the “new format of intensified talks has failed to generate fresh momentum”. The think tank set out five scenarios which were likely to occur as a result of ongoing negotiations between Michel Barnier and David Frost.
9:30am update: Potential veto on Brexit laws by EU? The EU is demanding a potential veto on Britain's post-Brexit laws and regulations, it has been suggested this morning. Governemnts sources suggest that the EU's chief negotiator, Michel Barnier, is said to be insisting that London must agree not to implement any change to UK legislation that could distort trade with the bloc without first consulting Brussels. Barnier's UK counterpart, David Frost, has rejected the approach however. EU diplomats said earlier that Barnier went to London on Tuesday to tell Frost Britain must move on state aid, or there will not be a Brexit agreement. The chances of Britain leaving the European Union without a trade deal have risen sharply as negotiations have been threatened by London's insistence that it have full autonomy over its state aid plans. 8am update: Tony Abbott keen to contribute in post-Brexit trade role Former Australian prime minister Tony Abbott says he is looking forward to contributing his "expertise" in global commerce to help Britain in his new role as adviser to the UK Board of Trade. Mr Abbott's appointment has sparked a heated reaction in some quarters, with critics saying he is well known for holding misogynistic and homophobic views, as well as drawing attention to his scepticism on climate change. After Prime Minister Boris Johnson came out in support of the 62-year-old, Mr Abbott - who led Australia from 2013-15 - said he was "only too keen" to help the UK and looked forward to helping facilitate trade deals "between Britain and other countries, including Australia". Mr Abbott said in a statement on Twitter: "A UK-Australia trade deal, maximising the movement of goods, services and people is clearly in the best interests of both our countries. "It's important for the wider world that Britain make the most of its post-Brexit opportunities and I am proud to be playing a part."


thedailyexpress--2020-09-05--Not in the real world! Ex MEP exposes EU's sheer disregard for taxpayers

Rupert Lowe also offered candid assessments of high-profile figures Guy Verhofstadt and Michel Barnier - while warning fellow Europeans Brussels was hell-bent on gaining control of every aspect of their lives .
Mr Lowe , who served as MEP for the West Midlands Region after being elected in May of last year , opened his lid on his time at the European Parliament , which he said was both an `` interesting place '' and deeply flawed as an institution .
He told Express.co.uk : `` It 's the only place I have ever worked where how much something cost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people who are in the real world are all subject to budgets - and if we do n't all respect our budgets , we end up running out of money .
`` With the European Parliament , the way it operates is they spend X and then they levy Y .
`` There does not appear to be any form of austerity at all . ''
Assessing the bloc 's place within the continent of Europe , Mr Lowe said it was outliving its usefulness .
He said : `` They paint themselves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` But in fact , if you look at the history , World War 2 was won by the Anglo-Saxon alliance with Russia 's help coming in from the east .
`` In fact the peace has been kept because we had a post-war Anglo-Saxon hegemony which has ensured that if people behave unreasonably , while the liberal west still has control , it stops it .
JUST IN : Coronavirus vaccine : Russia 's claims must be treated with scepticism '' We are getting to the end of that unfortunately .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ an MEP , Mr Lowe said : `` What I did enjoy about the European Union is it is a place where a lot of debate takes place and a lot of interesting things happen .
`` It has got some strengths in that respect but is it good value for the British people who are still paying for it even though we are no longer represented , for the German people , for the Italian people ?
No , it definitely is n't .
`` It is an example of unaccountable power @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' DO N'T MISS Fishing devastation : Heartbreaking account on EU dismantling fishing [ VIDEO ] Nigel Farage warns ‘ optimistic ’ Brexiteers 'it 's not over ' yet [ VIDEO ] EU seek to ‘ uphold access ’ to UK fishing waters in risk to trade talks [ VIDEO ] During the months he spent in Brussels , Mr Lowe , former chairman of Southampton FC , also got to see high-profile figures associated with the bloc at close quarters .
He explained : `` We clashed with Guy Verhofstadt , Guy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the European project .
`` And Michel Barnier I have met , I like Barnier as a human being , I think he is a highly principled Frenchman who puts the interests of France and Europe at the top of his agenda .
`` And if he is negotiating against a bunch of wibbly-wobbly people on behalf of the British people , then he is always going to trounce them .
`` I did enjoy it , I thought it was an interesting place but it is a highly misguided place and it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ applies different rules and different principles to different countries with different economies .
Mr Lowe also admitted party leader Nigel Farage had `` had fun '' in the chamber of the Parliament , frequently sparring with Mr Verhofstadt himself .
He added : `` Nigel is a very good orator and has probably done more to advance the cause of British sovereignty than almost much anybody . ''
Looking to the future , Mr Lowe noted recent comments by European Commission vice-president Valdis Dombrovskis , the EU 's finance supremo , floating the @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Brexit: Farage says he’ll miss EU ‘drama’ with Junker and Schulz
Rupert Lowe also offered candid assessments of high-profile figures Guy Verhofstadt and Michel Barnier - while warning fellow Europeans Brussels was hell-bent on gaining control of every aspect of their lives. Mr Lowe, who served as MEP for the West Midlands Region after being elected in May of last year, opened his lid on his time at the European Parliament, which he said was both an "interesting place" and deeply flawed as an institution.
Trending
It's the only place I have ever worked where how much something cost was not an issue Rupert Lowe
He told Express.co.uk: "It's the only place I have ever worked where how much something cost was not an issue. "Most people who are in the real world are all subject to budgets - and if we don't all respect our budgets, we end up running out of money. "With the European Parliament, the way it operates is they spend X and then they levy Y. "There does not appear to be any form of austerity at all."
Mr Lowe offered opinions on both Guy Verhofstadt and Michel Barnier
Rupert Lowe was a Brexit Party MEP for more than six months
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Assessing the bloc's place within the continent of Europe, Mr Lowe said it was outliving its usefulness. He said: "They paint themselves as the peacekeeper since World War 2. "But in fact, if you look at the history, World War 2 was won by the Anglo-Saxon alliance with Russia's help coming in from the east. "In fact the peace has been kept because we had a post-war Anglo-Saxon hegemony which has ensured that if people behave unreasonably, while the liberal west still has control, it stops it. JUST IN: Coronavirus vaccine: Russia's claims must be treated with scepticism
Nigel Farage and Rupert Lowe among other Brexit Party MEPs in the European Parliament
"We are getting to the end of that unfortunately." In respect of his time as an MEP, Mr Lowe said: "What I did enjoy about the European Union is it is a place where a lot of debate takes place and a lot of interesting things happen. "It has got some strengths in that respect but is it good value for the British people who are still paying for it even though we are no longer represented, for the German people, for the Italian people? No, it definitely isn't. "It is an example of unaccountable power which really does not achieve anything." DON'T MISS
Fishing devastation: Heartbreaking account on EU dismantling fishing [VIDEO]
Nigel Farage warns ‘optimistic’ Brexiteers 'it's not over' yet [VIDEO]
EU seek to ‘uphold access’ to UK fishing waters in risk to trade talks [VIDEO]
Guy Verfhostadt goads Nigel Farage in the European Parliament
Nigel Farage responds to Guy Verhofstadt in Brussels
During the months he spent in Brussels, Mr Lowe, former chairman of Southampton FC, also got to see high-profile figures associated with the bloc at close quarters. He explained: "We clashed with Guy Verhofstadt, Guy Verhofstadt is Belgian who is committed to the European project. "And Michel Barnier I have met, I like Barnier as a human being, I think he is a highly principled Frenchman who puts the interests of France and Europe at the top of his agenda. "And if he is negotiating against a bunch of wibbly-wobbly people on behalf of the British people, then he is always going to trounce them.
Brexit timetable
"I did enjoy it, I thought it was an interesting place but it is a highly misguided place and it is not a principled place, it applies different rules and different principles to different countries with different economies. Mr Lowe also admitted party leader Nigel Farage had "had fun" in the chamber of the Parliament, frequently sparring with Mr Verhofstadt himself. He added: "Nigel is a very good orator and has probably done more to advance the cause of British sovereignty than almost much anybody." Looking to the future, Mr Lowe noted recent comments by European Commission vice-president Valdis Dombrovskis, the EU's finance supremo, floating the idea of a bloc-wide digital tax.
Valdis Dombrovskis has floated the idea of a digital tax


thedailyexpress--2020-09-05--Tony Abbott’s gay sister hits out at haters branding him ‘homophobe’ for political points

Christine Forster , the younger sister of the former Australian prime minister , said it was “ nothing short of dishonesty ” for people to make assumptions about her brother and label him a “ homophobe and misogynist ” .
The defence from Ms Forster , who is gay , comes after Mr Abbott was called out for saying he felt “ threatened ” by the concept of homosexuality .
And in 2010 Mr Abbott caused a stir among women while commenting on an emissions trading scheme which he said would damage small businesses through increased power costs .
Addressing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ What the housewives of Australia need to understand as they do the ironing is that if they get it done commercially it ’ s going to go up in price , and their own power bills , when they switch the iron on , are going to go up.
” Mr Forster took to Twitter to release a lengthy statement in support of her brother , who served as Australia ’ s leader from 2013 to 2015 .
She said : “ It is nothing short of dishonesty for commentators and politicians @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him a ‘ homophobe and a misogynist ’ for the purposes of scoring cheap political points .
“ As a woman who has always been part of his life and who came out to him as gay in my early 40s , I know incontrovertibly that Tony is neither of those things.
” She called her brother “ a man of great conviction and intellect ” .
READ MORE : Labour SHAMED after Brexit attack backfires as Liz Truss slams party He said he is looking forward to contributing his `` expertise '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his new role as adviser to the UK Board of Trade .
During an interview with Sky News , Scotland ’ s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said she would not have handed him the top role .
Presenter Kay Burley said to Ms Sturgeon : “ Tony Abbott , the former Australian Prime Minister , said it might have been better if elderly people were left to die from the effects of Covid .
“ He may well be a trade ambassador or a trade envoy for the United Kingdom after Brexit .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sturgeon replied : “ Well if I had anything to do with that decision he wouldn ’ t be a trade envoy for the United Kingdom , it ’ s not , unfortunately , my decision .
“ The comments you just quoted there from Tony Abbott I think are disgraceful.
” She added that Ms Abbott ’ s take on the coronavirus crisis was “ deeply offensive ” .

Tony Abbott officially appointed a role on the UK's trade board
Christine Forster, the younger sister of the former Australian prime minister, said it was “nothing short of dishonesty” for people to make assumptions about her brother and label him a “homophobe and misogynist”. The defence from Ms Forster, who is gay, comes after Mr Abbott was called out for saying he felt “threatened” by the concept of homosexuality.
Trending
And in 2010 Mr Abbott caused a stir among women while commenting on an emissions trading scheme which he said would damage small businesses through increased power costs. Addressing Australian women directly, he said: “What the housewives of Australia need to understand as they do the ironing is that if they get it done commercially it’s going to go up in price, and their own power bills, when they switch the iron on, are going to go up.” Mr Forster took to Twitter to release a lengthy statement in support of her brother, who served as Australia’s leader from 2013 to 2015.
Christine Forster said Tony Abbott has respect for everyone
Christine Forster defended her older brother against criticism
She said: “It is nothing short of dishonesty for commentators and politicians who do not know Tony to label him a ‘homophobe and a misogynist’ for the purposes of scoring cheap political points. “As a woman who has always been part of his life and who came out to him as gay in my early 40s, I know incontrovertibly that Tony is neither of those things.” She called her brother “a man of great conviction and intellect”. READ MORE: Labour SHAMED after Brexit attack backfires as Liz Truss slams party
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Boris Johnson backed Tony Abbott
Mr Abbott with his younger sister
Mr Abbott served as Australia's PM from 2013 to 2015
He said he is looking forward to contributing his "expertise" in global commerce to help Britain in his new role as adviser to the UK Board of Trade. During an interview with Sky News, Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said she would not have handed him the top role. Presenter Kay Burley said to Ms Sturgeon: “Tony Abbott, the former Australian Prime Minister, said it might have been better if elderly people were left to die from the effects of Covid.
“He may well be a trade ambassador or a trade envoy for the United Kingdom after Brexit. What do you think?” Ms Sturgeon replied: “Well if I had anything to do with that decision he wouldn’t be a trade envoy for the United Kingdom, it’s not, unfortunately, my decision. “The comments you just quoted there from Tony Abbott I think are disgraceful.” She added that Ms Abbott’s take on the coronavirus crisis was “deeply offensive”.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon


thedailyexpress--2020-09-05--Rishi's tax hike Budget to be ‘sorry day’ for Chancellor as Tories vow to vote it down

In a warning to Chancellor Rishi Sunak , the former Brexit secretary became the first Tory MP to publicly promise to rebel against hikes in income tax , National insurance or other levies .
He delivered his salvo after Mr Sunak urged the party to be “ honest ” about the financial challenges facing the Government following the coronavirus crisis .
Speaking to BBC Radio 4 ’ s Week in Westminster , Mr Davis said tax was set to be “ the really big argument of the coming months ” between the Treasury and Tory MPs .
“ It ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of tax-the-rich Budget they could get through on Labour numbers I suppose .
But it would be a very sorry day for a new Tory chancellor , losing God knows how many Tories , ” he said .
“ I ’ m not exactly the most virtuous person in terms of not voting against my party .
But I ’ ve never voted against a Budget in my life .
If it ’ s a tax-raising Budget I will.
” Hikes in fuel duty and capital gains tax on second home owners as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taxpayers have been floated by Treasury sources in recent days as possible Budget measures this autumn to reduce Treasury debt .
In a meeting with Tory MPs earlier this week , the Chancellor promised not to unleash a “ horror show of tax rises with no end in sight ” but admitted the Government was going to have to make “ difficult ” decisions and could not “ simply borrow our way out of any hole ” .
Mr Davis suggests Government bonds similar to those used to raise long-term borrowing during the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cover the emergency spending .
“ When on earth is the Treasury going to learn that putting taxes up ends up getting you less money ?
“ We ’ ve seen under [ Nigel ] Lawson when he cut income tax rates the amount of income tax paid by the richest one and 10 % went up dramatically .
And we ’ ve seen in recent years , reducing the rate on capital gains has increased the take , ” the former Brexit secretary said .
“ Our economic engine is sputtering because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ensure it gets going again and runs fast otherwise we won ’ t have the jobs , the welfare cost will be enormous and therefore we won ’ t have the money to turn the economy into the sort of future-proofed economy we actually want to see post-Brexit.
” Asked how many fellow Tory MPs were prepared to rebel , Mr Davis said “ there are a lot ” .

UK recession: Rishi Sunak says 'hard times are here'
In a warning to Chancellor Rishi Sunak, the former Brexit secretary became the first Tory MP to publicly promise to rebel against hikes in income tax, National insurance or other levies. He delivered his salvo after Mr Sunak urged the party to be “honest” about the financial challenges facing the Government following the coronavirus crisis.
Speaking to BBC Radio 4’s Week in Westminster, Mr Davis said tax was set to be “the really big argument of the coming months” between the Treasury and Tory MPs. “It’s entirely possible that with a sort of tax-the-rich Budget they could get through on Labour numbers I suppose. But it would be a very sorry day for a new Tory chancellor, losing God knows how many Tories,” he said. “I’m not exactly the most virtuous person in terms of not voting against my party. But I’ve never voted against a Budget in my life. If it’s a tax-raising Budget I will.”
Rishi's tax hike Budget to be ‘sorry day’ for Chancellor as Tories vow to vote it down
David Davis is threatening to vote against the next Budget if its measures include tax rises
Hikes in fuel duty and capital gains tax on second home owners as well as slashing pension perks for higher-rate taxpayers have been floated by Treasury sources in recent days as possible Budget measures this autumn to reduce Treasury debt. In a meeting with Tory MPs earlier this week, the Chancellor promised not to unleash a “horror show of tax rises with no end in sight” but admitted the Government was going to have to make “difficult” decisions and could not “simply borrow our way out of any hole”. Mr Davis suggests Government bonds similar to those used to raise long-term borrowing during the two world wars should be considered to cover the emergency spending. “When on earth is the Treasury going to learn that putting taxes up ends up getting you less money?
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info


thedailyexpress--2020-09-05--Brexit poll: Should Boris Johnson walk away now with no deal as trade talks at deadlock?

The EU ’ s chief negotiator said he felt “ worried and disappointed ” over the UK ’ s approach to the discussions following the unsuccessful meeting with his British counterpart in London on Tuesday .
EU diplomats said Mr Barnier made the overseas trip to tell Mr Frost Britain must move on state aid , or there will not be a Brexit agreement .
The chances of Britain leaving the European Union without a trade deal have risen sharply as negotiations have been threatened by London 's insistence that it have full autonomy over its state aid plans .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ will not sacrifice its principles for the sole benefit of the UK.
” He said Brussels has demonstrated its willingness to move on contentious areas and “ shown in many issues real openness in the past months ” .
But he said the UK had not budged on its red lines , which he found disappointing .
Mr Barnier said the bloc recognised Britain ’ s commitments to fair competition , fishing rights and governance , including the European Court of Justice , and was willing to compromise .
But he said Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ table proposals on fisheries or state aid .
He said : “ On all these issues , the UK sides continue to disappoint.
” On Tuesday the next round of trade negotiations will kick off just one month before the agreed deadline for any deal .
READ MORE : Ireland on brink : Leader warned of 'anger against political elite' While both sides have struggled to find common ground in meetings , one thing they have agreed on is that any deal would have to be sealed by October to allow for enough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Johnson has repeatedly ruled out extending the Brexit transition period beyond the December 31 deadline .
On Saturday The Times reported that the EU is demanding a potential veto on Britain ’ s post-Brexit laws and regulations , citing senior government officials .
Mr Barnier is said to be insisting that London must agree not to implement any change to UK legislation that could distort trade with the bloc without first consulting Brussels .
Macron provokes UK fury for singling out anti-Brexit campaigner [ INSIGHT ] Brexit prediction : Farage explains how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] Brexit LIVE : EU casts grey cloud over Brexit trade deal being reached [ ANALYSIS ] Mr Frost has rejected the approach , the paper reported .
On Friday Mr Frost said the EU ’ s tough stance over state aid and fisheries may limit the progress that can be made in key talks next week .
He said Britain had been clear from the beginning about what it could accept in those areas , which he said were `` fundamental to our status as an independent country '' .
He tweeted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the EU 's stance may , realistically , limit the progress we can make next week .
`` From the very beginning we have been clear about what we can accept in these areas , which are fundamental to our status as an independent country . ''
Failure to reach a trade deal could roil financial markets as nearly a trillion dollars in trade , from car parts and medicines to lamb and fish , would be thrown into turmoil .

Brexit: Nigel Farage hits out at 'awful' withdrawal agreement
The EU’s chief negotiator said he felt “worried and disappointed” over the UK’s approach to the discussions following the unsuccessful meeting with his British counterpart in London on Tuesday. EU diplomats said Mr Barnier made the overseas trip to tell Mr Frost Britain must move on state aid, or there will not be a Brexit agreement. THIS POLL HAS NOW CLOSED. VIEW THE RESULTS HERE.
Trending
The chances of Britain leaving the European Union without a trade deal have risen sharply as negotiations have been threatened by London's insistence that it have full autonomy over its state aid plans. Mr Barnier warned: “The EU will not sacrifice its principles for the sole benefit of the UK.” He said Brussels has demonstrated its willingness to move on contentious areas and “shown in many issues real openness in the past months”. But he said the UK had not budged on its red lines, which he found disappointing.
Should Boris Johnson walk away now without a post-Brexit trade deal? VOTE
A no-deal Brexit is looking more likely by the day
Mr Barnier said the bloc recognised Britain’s commitments to fair competition, fishing rights and governance, including the European Court of Justice, and was willing to compromise. But he said Mr Frost’s team had refused to table proposals on fisheries or state aid. He said: “On all these issues, the UK sides continue to disappoint.” On Tuesday the next round of trade negotiations will kick off just one month before the agreed deadline for any deal. READ MORE: Ireland on brink: Leader warned of 'anger against political elite'
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
The PM has ruled out extending the Brexit transition period
While both sides have struggled to find common ground in meetings, one thing they have agreed on is that any deal would have to be sealed by October to allow for enough time for it to be approved. Mr Johnson has repeatedly ruled out extending the Brexit transition period beyond the December 31 deadline. On Saturday The Times reported that the EU is demanding a potential veto on Britain’s post-Brexit laws and regulations, citing senior government officials. Mr Barnier is said to be insisting that London must agree not to implement any change to UK legislation that could distort trade with the bloc without first consulting Brussels. DON'T MISS Macron provokes UK fury for singling out anti-Brexit campaigner [INSIGHT]
Brexit prediction: Farage explains how Boris can still outsmart EU [PREDICTION]
Brexit LIVE: EU casts grey cloud over Brexit trade deal being reached [ANALYSIS]
The EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier
Mr Johnson leaves Downing Street
Mr Frost has rejected the approach, the paper reported. On Friday Mr Frost said the EU’s tough stance over state aid and fisheries may limit the progress that can be made in key talks next week. He said Britain had been clear from the beginning about what it could accept in those areas, which he said were "fundamental to our status as an independent country".
Brexit timeline
He tweeted: "We will negotiate constructively but the EU's stance may, realistically, limit the progress we can make next week. "From the very beginning we have been clear about what we can accept in these areas, which are fundamental to our status as an independent country." Failure to reach a trade deal could roil financial markets as nearly a trillion dollars in trade, from car parts and medicines to lamb and fish, would be thrown into turmoil.
Mr Barnier said he felt 'disappointed' about the UK's position in the talks


thedailyexpress--2020-09-05--UK heading to towards 75% chance of no deal – EU stubbornness to blame on key positions

The think tank set out five scenarios which were likely to occur as a result of ongoing negotiations between Michel Barnier and David Frost .
They warned there was “ a sense on the UK side that EU negotiator Michel Barnier ’ s position is moving , thus generating new hopes for a deal.
” They added time was “ likely to alter the perception of Brexit ” claiming even in the short term , the focus of the EU and its populations “ will no longer be on Brexit.
” In a piece for the EPC , Jannike Wachowiak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fabian Zuleeg , chief executive of the think tank , the pair argued “ the balance of power in these negotiations dictates that the UK will need to concede significantly more than the EU ” .
Looking to five future outcomes the EPC outlined an option which could see a “ basic deal ” being reached which does not “ protect the EU ’ s red lines ” .
However , they claimed it was highly unlikely for this option to be reached , adding of it : “ While the EU has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s red lines ( eg the role of the European Court of Justice , a noticeably different deal on fisheries ) and discuss possible compromise ‘ landing zones ’ , it will not drop its fundamental demands .
“ The EU is willing to let the UK government claim victories if compromises on certain details can be found , but this flexibility reaches its limits when it comes to the EU ’ s economic interests and political unity .
“ A basic trade deal that is decoupled from the EU ’ s demands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( or does not include an agreement on fisheries ) is , therefore , the least likely scenario .
READ MORE : Brexit prediction : Farage explains how Boris can still outsmart EU The think tank explored two other options which could see a basic deal by summer or autumn 2020 with EU red lines intact .
They warned it was “ unlikely ” that the UK government will concede any of its red lines before the summer .
But they claimed “ a thin trade deal ” in autumn was still possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seriously engage with the political trade-offs between market access and divergence.
” The EPC added : “ While compromise is required from both sides , the balance of power in these negotiations dictates that the UK will need to concede significantly more than the EU .
DO N'T MISS : Brexit bashers just refuse to give up defying democracy - COMMENT [ REVEAL ] Boris urged NOT to accept same fishing policy in EU trade talks [ INSIGHT ] 'Cost is NOT an issue ' Ex-MEP exposes EU 's shocking wastefulness [ LATEST @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a deal , negotiating all the technical details by the end of the year remains a challenging task , particularly as there are domestic decisions within the UK that impact the EU-UK negotiations but are still pending ( e.g .
how the UK ’ s state aid regime will work ) .
” A fourth potential outcome was a “ late extension leading to a basic deal based on UK concessions ” which the think tank said was up to 10 percent likely .
The EPC suggested Boris Johnson could “ contemplate a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ else ) to not face a no-deal outcome.
” This could be possible if Mr Johnson “ realises his brinkmanship does not pay off and the EU is indeed serious about its affirmations to not agree to a deal at any price ” .
They added of the fourth outcome : “ While it is still technically possible to secure more time in autumn ( most likely via a new mixed treaty or as part of a future relationship deal ) , a late extension request involves significant legal and political obstacles .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ sell for Johnson and certainly cause an uproar within his Conservative Party .
As such , it seems unlikely he would go down this route .
“ If he does , however , it would send a strong signal he wants to secure a deal.
” The final outcome which the EPC said was 60 to 75 percent likely was a “ no deal by default or design ” .
They said there was a “ high potential ” for this to occur despite this not being the desired outcome for either side @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to its Withdrawal Agreement obligations , the EPC said this could “ seriously undermine the prospects for a future agreement , and thus would most likely lead to no-deal.
” They added : “ Future political events ( e.g .
a second COVID-19 wave this autumn ) might take the spotlight away from Brexit when a political push is most needed .
“ If the UK Government holds out until the last possible moment , time might simply run out .
“ Domestically , the blame for a no-deal Brexit could be laid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ EU and the economic consequences at least partly attributed to the fallout from COVID-19.
” Concluding , the EPC said under all five scenarios , the chances for a comprehensive and ambitious deal as envisaged in the Political Declaration are “ virtually zero.
” They said : “ A deal that does not respect the EU ’ s red lines is highly unlikely as the EU has no incentive to sign a deal that does not protect its long-term interests .
“ The moment of truth will come in autumn when political @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Johnson has to reveal his hand.
” Deadlocks still remain over fishing and the level playing field with the latest round of talks set to take place next week .

Brexit: Nigel Farage hits out at 'awful' withdrawal agreement
Brussels-based European Policy Centre (EPC) has poured cold water on hopes the EU’s position will move on key red lines as the deadline to reach a trade deal before the end of the transition period fast approaches. While the “mood music has improved” the group argued “progress remains extremely limited” and the “new format of intensified talks has failed to generate fresh momentum”.
Trending
The think tank set out five scenarios which were likely to occur as a result of ongoing negotiations between Michel Barnier and David Frost. They warned there was “a sense on the UK side that EU negotiator Michel Barnier’s position is moving, thus generating new hopes for a deal.” They added time was “likely to alter the perception of Brexit” claiming even in the short term, the focus of the EU and its populations “will no longer be on Brexit.” In a piece for the EPC, Jannike Wachowiak, a junior policy analyst, and Fabian Zuleeg, chief executive of the think tank, the pair argued “the balance of power in these negotiations dictates that the UK will need to concede significantly more than the EU”.
It is highly likely that the UK will leave with no deal, the EPC has said
Five scenarios were outlined by the EPC
Looking to five future outcomes the EPC outlined an option which could see a “basic deal” being reached which does not “protect the EU’s red lines”. However, they claimed it was highly unlikely for this option to be reached, adding of it: “While the EU has signalled readiness to consider the UK’s red lines (eg the role of the European Court of Justice, a noticeably different deal on fisheries) and discuss possible compromise ‘landing zones’, it will not drop its fundamental demands. “The EU is willing to let the UK government claim victories if compromises on certain details can be found, but this flexibility reaches its limits when it comes to the EU’s economic interests and political unity. “A basic trade deal that is decoupled from the EU’s demands on governance and the level playing field (or does not include an agreement on fisheries) is, therefore, the least likely scenario. READ MORE: Brexit prediction: Farage explains how Boris can still outsmart EU
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Boris Johnson has stood firm on securing a deal
The think tank explored two other options which could see a basic deal by summer or autumn 2020 with EU red lines intact. They warned it was “unlikely” that the UK government will concede any of its red lines before the summer. But they claimed “a thin trade deal” in autumn was still possible provided that the UK “starts to seriously engage with the political trade-offs between market access and divergence.” The EPC added: “While compromise is required from both sides, the balance of power in these negotiations dictates that the UK will need to concede significantly more than the EU. DON'T MISS:
Brexit bashers just refuse to give up defying democracy - COMMENT [REVEAL]
Boris urged NOT to accept same fishing policy in EU trade talks [INSIGHT]
'Cost is NOT an issue' Ex-MEP exposes EU's shocking wastefulness [LATEST]
The European Policy Centre is a think tank
“Even if both sides want a deal, negotiating all the technical details by the end of the year remains a challenging task, particularly as there are domestic decisions within the UK that impact the EU-UK negotiations but are still pending (e.g. how the UK’s state aid regime will work).” A fourth potential outcome was a “late extension leading to a basic deal based on UK concessions” which the think tank said was up to 10 percent likely. The EPC suggested Boris Johnson could “contemplate a short extension (possibly rebranded as something else) to not face a no-deal outcome.” This could be possible if Mr Johnson “realises his brinkmanship does not pay off and the EU is indeed serious about its affirmations to not agree to a deal at any price”.
It is likely that the UK will leave with no deal in December
They added of the fourth outcome: “While it is still technically possible to secure more time in autumn (most likely via a new mixed treaty or as part of a future relationship deal), a late extension request involves significant legal and political obstacles. “Such concessions would be a difficult sell for Johnson and certainly cause an uproar within his Conservative Party. As such, it seems unlikely he would go down this route. “If he does, however, it would send a strong signal he wants to secure a deal.” The final outcome which the EPC said was 60 to 75 percent likely was a “no deal by default or design”.
Michel Barnier will meet David Frost next week


thedailyexpress--2020-09-05--Brexit warning: EU told UK will stand firm on trade demands to honour pledge to Brexiteers

Negotiations on the future partnership between the UK and EU began in March , with the hope of striking a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement ( FTA ) before the end of the 11-month transition period on December 31 - a deadline Boris Johnson refused to extend .
The EU 's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier has launched furious attacks against the UK negotiating team , lamenting their refusal to give ground on several red lines , predominantly fisheries , state aid and the EU 's level playing field .
Last month , he set a `` strict '' deadline of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be agreed , so it can be ratified by the European Parliament before the transition period deadline at the end of the year .
But seven rounds of official talks have resulted in repeated deadlocks and ahead of the next set of negotiations in London next week , the prospect of a no deal Brexit has intensified .
Ben Harris-Quinney , chairman of the Bow Group think tank , acknowledged Mr Johnson is no closer than predecessor Theresa May to strike a deal with the EU , as the Prime Minister 's Withdrawal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ different '' .
But he said the significant difference is the current UK Government would now willingly press ahead with a no-deal Brexit as opposed to conceding vital ground on the key red lines .
Mr Harris-Quinney told Express.co.uk : `` Boris has not been any closer to agreeing a deal than May , and his proposed deal is barely any different .
`` What is different this time is I think the Government would now willingly opt for a no deal settlement rather than concede on their red lines .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that they need to honour their commitment to Brexit and Brexiteers and stick to their red lines for a deal , or opt for a no deal .
`` We can be confident that the UK government is now genuinely willing to walk away with a no deal settlement .
`` If they blink and buckle and do n't deliver on that , whilst a future election may be years away , they will instantly lose their credibility and authority in totality . ''
READ MORE : Verhofstadt branded 'bitter ex ' as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` Coronavirus has made things more complicated but this government is only in power because of its commitment to fulfil the requirements of a full Brexit .
`` Prior to Coronavirus the UK was probably in a stronger position vs the EU , but at the moment neither side want additional complications .
`` The EU may be larger than the UK but has more pressing economic issues . ''
Mr Johnson 's most senior officials now only think there will is a 30-40 percent chance of a trade agreement being struck @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aid rules .
DO N'T MISS Boris urged NOT to accept same fishing policy in EU trade talks [ POLL ] 'Cost is NOT an issue ' Ex-MEP exposes EU 's shocking wastefulness [ COMMENT ] EU refuses Barnier 's plea for help as Brexit talks head for no deal [ ANALYSIS ] If no deal is agreed before the end of the transition period , London and Brussels will fall back to trading on World Trade Organisation ( WTO ) terms – adding tariffs to a range of exports , including fish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use state aid to bulk up its technology sector means the Boris Johnson 's top team are unwilling to budge in negotiations on this crucial red line .
The Prime Minister does not want to agree to any new state aid rules with the EU that would prevent the Government from actively investing in the technologies of the future - a plan that puts him on a direct collision course with Brussels .
Mr Harris-Quinney has urged him not to repeat a critical mistake made by Mrs May , which could again lead @ @ @ @ @ @

Nigel Farage warns Boris Johnson of ‘betrayal of Brexit’
Negotiations on the future partnership between the UK and EU began in March, with the hope of striking a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) before the end of the 11-month transition period on December 31 - a deadline Boris Johnson refused to extend. The EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier has launched furious attacks against the UK negotiating team, lamenting their refusal to give ground on several red lines, predominantly fisheries, state aid and the EU's level playing field. Last month, he set a "strict" deadline of October 31 for a trade deal to be agreed, so it can be ratified by the European Parliament before the transition period deadline at the end of the year.
Trending
But seven rounds of official talks have resulted in repeated deadlocks and ahead of the next set of negotiations in London next week, the prospect of a no deal Brexit has intensified. Ben Harris-Quinney, chairman of the Bow Group think tank, acknowledged Mr Johnson is no closer than predecessor Theresa May to strike a deal with the EU, as the Prime Minister's Withdrawal Agreement with Brussels is "barely any different". But he said the significant difference is the current UK Government would now willingly press ahead with a no-deal Brexit as opposed to conceding vital ground on the key red lines. Mr Harris-Quinney told Express.co.uk: "Boris has not been any closer to agreeing a deal than May, and his proposed deal is barely any different.
Brexit news: The UK has been backed to stand firm on its trade demands
Brexit news: The EU has been warned the UK has learnt the lesson to honour their commitment to Brexiteers
"What is different this time is I think the Government would now willingly opt for a no deal settlement rather than concede on their red lines. "I think the Government has learned the lesson that they need to honour their commitment to Brexit and Brexiteers and stick to their red lines for a deal, or opt for a no deal. "We can be confident that the UK government is now genuinely willing to walk away with a no deal settlement. "If they blink and buckle and don't deliver on that, whilst a future election may be years away, they will instantly lose their credibility and authority in totality." READ MORE: Verhofstadt branded 'bitter ex' as makes desperate Brexit claim
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Brexit news: Boris Johnson refused to extend the transution period beyond December 31
He also warned: "Coronavirus has made things more complicated but this government is only in power because of its commitment to fulfil the requirements of a full Brexit. "Prior to Coronavirus the UK was probably in a stronger position vs the EU, but at the moment neither side want additional complications. "The EU may be larger than the UK but has more pressing economic issues." Mr Johnson's most senior officials now only think there will is a 30-40 percent chance of a trade agreement being struck due to the deadlocked negotiations over state aid rules. DON'T MISS
Boris urged NOT to accept same fishing policy in EU trade talks [POLL]
'Cost is NOT an issue' Ex-MEP exposes EU's shocking wastefulness [COMMENT]
EU refuses Barnier's plea for help as Brexit talks head for no deal [ANALYSIS]
Brexit news: Michel Barnier has repeatedly lashed out at the UK's negotiatiing stance
Brexit news: David Frost and Michel Barnier have met during seven rounds of talks
If no deal is agreed before the end of the transition period, London and Brussels will fall back to trading on World Trade Organisation (WTO) terms – adding tariffs to a range of exports, including fish. But the UK's desire to use state aid to bulk up its technology sector means the Boris Johnson's top team are unwilling to budge in negotiations on this crucial red line. The Prime Minister does not want to agree to any new state aid rules with the EU that would prevent the Government from actively investing in the technologies of the future - a plan that puts him on a direct collision course with Brussels. Mr Harris-Quinney has urged him not to repeat a critical mistake made by Mrs May, which could again lead to "political turmoil".
Brexit news: The transition period ends on December 31, 2020


thedailyexpress--2020-09-06--‘Walk away NOW!’ Boris told to ditch deadlocked Brexit trade talks with EU - poll

Express.co.uk readers voted in our poll on whether the Prime Minister should walk away from negotiations with Brussels .
Some 93 percent of respondents said yes , with just seven percent disagreeing .
Commenting on the poll , one reader wrote : “ I ca n't understand what 's taking so long , we will never give up our waters for them to plunder and we will never agree to abiding by their laws .
“ Just walk away and say you drop these bullying demands and we can talk but do n't bother us unless you do.
” Another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need telling Boris just walk away now and get it over with and start WTO.
” A third insisted : “ We must let them know that we are now in control over our own country and finish further negotiations and walk away.
” One more added : “ We agreed to a transition up to 31 December and that is what we must do .
“ Many of us already knew the negotiations would be pointless .
“ We want to be a free sovereign country .
Fish our own waters , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own borders .
“ The plain fact is Brussels can never allow UK to have that or every other country would demand the same and the gravy train will come to a juddering halt and all those corrupt , incompetent , failed politicians would be out of a job.
” READ MORE : ‘ Get real Barnier !
’ UK threatens to starve EU of cash He said : `` We did not see any change in the position of the UK .
“ This is why I express publicly that I am @ @ @ @ @ @ @ frankly speaking , we have moved .
`` If they do n't move on the issues which are the key issues of the EU , the level playing field , fisheries and governance , the UK will take itself the risk of a no-deal . ''
But Downing Street angrily hit back at Mr Barnier ’ s claims and blasted Brussels ’ fishing demands .
The Prime Minister 's official spokesman said : `` Michel Barnier 's comments are a misleading representation of our proposals aimed at deflecting scrutiny from the EU 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` For our part we 've been consistently clear that we 're seeking a relationship that respects our sovereignty and has a free trade agreement at its core similar to those the EU has already agreed with like minded countries .
`` The EU have refused to engage with our proposals and the documents we 've brought to the table insisting we must accept continuity with EU fisheries policy and disregarding the UK 's status as an independent coastal state .
`` We need more realism from the EU on the scale @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaving the EU .
`` We do want an agreement and are looking for a relationship based on the EU 's existing bilateral arrangement on fishing with Norway which is the most relevant precedent to relationships between two independent coastal states . ''
The UK left the EU on January 31 and is in a transition period with the bloc until the end of the year while the two sides attempt to thrash out a post-Brexit trade deal .

Brexit: Expert forecasts talks will 'start to break down'
Express.co.uk readers voted in our poll on whether the Prime Minister should walk away from negotiations with Brussels. Some 93 percent of respondents said yes, with just seven percent disagreeing.
Commenting on the poll, one reader wrote: “I can't understand what's taking so long, we will never give up our waters for them to plunder and we will never agree to abiding by their laws. “Just walk away and say you drop these bullying demands and we can talk but don't bother us unless you do.” Another fumed: “How many times you need telling Boris just walk away now and get it over with and start WTO.” A third insisted: “We must let them know that we are now in control over our own country and finish further negotiations and walk away.”
Boris Johnson should abandon post-Brexit trade talks with the EU, according to an Express.co.uk poll
Express.co.uk readers voted in our poll on whether the Prime Minister should walk away from negotiations with Brussels
One more added: “We agreed to a transition up to 31 December and that is what we must do. “Many of us already knew the negotiations would be pointless. “We want to be a free sovereign country. Fish our own waters, make our own laws and control our own borders. “The plain fact is Brussels can never allow UK to have that or every other country would demand the same and the gravy train will come to a juddering halt and all those corrupt, incompetent, failed politicians would be out of a job.” READ MORE: ‘Get real Barnier!’ UK threatens to starve EU of cash
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
The eighth round of post-Brexit negotiations takes place in London next week
The EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier met his UK counterpart David Forst for informal talks in Downing Street earlier this week
He said: "We did not see any change in the position of the UK. “This is why I express publicly that I am worried and I am disappointed because, frankly speaking, we have moved. "I've shown clearly openness to find compromise. "If they don't move on the issues which are the key issues of the EU, the level playing field, fisheries and governance, the UK will take itself the risk of a no-deal."
Mr Barnier on Wednesday accused Britain of refusing to compromise to break the standoff
But Downing Street angrily hit back at Mr Barnier’s claims and blasted Brussels’ fishing demands. The Prime Minister's official spokesman said: "Michel Barnier's comments are a misleading representation of our proposals aimed at deflecting scrutiny from the EU's own positions which are unrealistic and unprecedented. "For our part we've been consistently clear that we're seeking a relationship that respects our sovereignty and has a free trade agreement at its core similar to those the EU has already agreed with like minded countries. "The EU have refused to engage with our proposals and the documents we've brought to the table insisting we must accept continuity with EU fisheries policy and disregarding the UK's status as an independent coastal state.
Five key moments that led to Brexit
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-09-06--‘Get real Barnier!’ UK threatens to starve EU of cash as Brexit fury reaches boiling point

As the eighth round of talks is set to begin this week , frustration in Downing Street at the EU ’ s stalling tactics is reaching boiling point .
The UK negotiating team led by David Frost have warned if talks in London make no progress this week then it will be too late to make a deal .
And the preparation for a no deal has been ramped up with the “ brightest and best ” civil servants brought into a new Transition Hub .
A senior Downing Street source said that they have been “ resigned to Australia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ probable outcome , meaning that there is little confidence the EU will agree to a fair trade deal which would be acceptable to the UK .
However , there are signs that leading figures in the EU are beginning to panic about the prospect of no trade deal and loss of free access to the world ’ s fifth biggest market amid reports that chief negotiator Michel Barnier has been sidelined .
Mr Barnier has led a strategy which has seen progress on other areas blocked until Britain gives in on accepting EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowing access to British fishing waters .
A survey by OnePoll for the Sunday Express this week shows that more than 50 per cent of members of the British public asked think that compromising on EU regulations and fish is unacceptable .
The UK team led by David Frost has refused to accept the demands and have been pushing for a deal similar to the one the EU recently struck with Canada .
A Downing Street source told the Sunday Express this week : “ We just don ’ t get why they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal with Canada and not offer Britain , which shares most of its regulations already , the same deal .
It just is completely unreasonable.
” They were also said to be “ completely bewildered ” by a rant from Mr Barnier this week saying that British coastal waters would be sovereign but the fish in them would not be .
“ We don ’ t know what he was trying and who he was really talking to , ” said the source .
The Sunday Express has learnt that a dossier is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the EU could be punished for refusing to strike a deal by limiting access to being able to raise money on the London financial markets .
A source has told the Sunday Express that the threat is “ set to become a big issue at the end of this week ” and “ it is currently on the Prime Minister ’ s desk being considered.
” The nuclear option drawn up by senior Brexiteer economists would put the squeeze on major corporations based in the EU who raise trillions of euros on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of different financial rules in the UK and toxic debt in the EU means that they are forced to go to London or New York for equity .
With 117 major EU companies listed on the Stock Exchange , the economists behind the dossier believe it is a “ magic key ” to unlocking a trade deal while regaining full sovereignty .
One of the economists behind the proposal , Barney Reynolds , global head of the Financial Services Industry Group , a partner at Shearman and Sterling said : “ We should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to play ball in the talks , we will scrap our protective shield and rectify the dumping and unfair subsidisation in the way that best protects us .
“ They would then confront had choices .
Either pay a lot more for the billions they need from London ’ s global markets or face being starved of cash for their big investment projects .
“ It is time to make clear to Michel Barnier and others that there is a high price to pay for their refusal to engage with the UK ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ win-win future relationship.
” He added : “ Every indication is that the EU is keen to have a deal .
They would prefer one that damages the UK – were the UK to agree to that – but when it becomes clear this option is not available , discussions will normalise rapidly.
” Meanwhile , sources from Mr Frost ’ s negotiating team have described this week ’ s talks as “ crucial ” with time now running out to strike a deal .
A source close to the UK ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and EU are entering the final phase of negotiations and while the government wants to reach a deal with the EU there needs to be a new approach from Brussel .
The source said : “ If we ’ re going to get there , we need more realism from them on the scale of the change that results from our departure .
They need to realise that what they ’ re asking for is at odds with what the British people voted for , twice , and not something we could ever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ self-imposed doctrine of “ parallelism ” which the Commission is using to stall progress by refusing to settle the simplest issues first , despite our willingness to up the pace and get into the detailed discussions of legal texts .
The EU have refused our offer to allow them to share our consolidated text with member states , wasting opportunities to make progress at this critical stage .
The source close to the negotiations said : “ We intensified the talks in July in order to reach a broad outline of an agreement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU ’ s repeated refusal to accept that in key areas we need to do things in our own way , reflecting our new status as a sovereign , independent country , those difficult discussions are ongoing .
We now face a critical round of negotiations in London .
“ We will continue to set out our reasonable arguments , which have remained the same since talks began in February - that we want an agreement based on precedent .
It ’ s time the EU accepted that so we can move on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that we are serious about leaving with an Australian style-trading relationship and reclaiming our independence as a sovereign nation if we can not find acceptable terms .
“ The whole Government has been extensively preparing to ensure that businesses and citizens are ready for the end of the transition period in any scenario .
Outside the customs union , outside the single market and outside the EU.
” A Whitehall source added : “ For four years now we have been clear that our sovereignty is non-negotiable – and our status as an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This is what the British people voted for and is something we will deliver on 1 January 2021 , regardless of the outcome of negotiations.
” In a sign that the government is serious about preparing for ending the transition period on Australia terms , work on readiness is being ramped up at the centre , with officials across departments working at pace on our preparedness .
To coordinate this huge body of work , a new No 10 Transition Hub has been created , drawing the best and brightest officials from across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ No 10 unit in 70 Whitehall , it is tasked with having a central grip on transition work , working closely with Michael Gove and the Cabinet Office .
The new unit will be staffed by civil servants in the office , with the use of live data .
Meanwhile , the UK is gearing up for trade deals around the world with former Australia Prime Minister Tony Abbott confirmed as one of the trade envoys on the new board of trade .
After Prime Minister Boris Johnson came out in support of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ led Australia from 2013-15 - said he was `` only too keen '' to help the UK and looked forward to helping facilitate trade deals `` between Britain and other countries , including Australia '' .
`` A UK-Australia trade deal , maximising the movement of goods , services and people is clearly in the best interests of both our countries , '' Mr Abbott said in a statement on Twitter .
`` It 's important for the wider world that Britain make the most of its post-Brexit opportunities and I am proud @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` My government finalised trade deals between Australia and China , Japan and Korea .
I 'm looking forward to bringing that expertise to bear as Britain works towards mutually beneficial improvements with its major trading partners . ''

Brexit: Expert forecasts talks will 'start to break down'
As the eighth round of talks is set to begin this week, frustration in Downing Street at the EU’s stalling tactics is reaching boiling point. The UK negotiating team led by David Frost have warned if talks in London make no progress this week then it will be too late to make a deal.
And the preparation for a no deal has been ramped up with the “brightest and best” civil servants brought into a new Transition Hub. A senior Downing Street source said that they have been “resigned to Australia rules for some time” as the probable outcome, meaning that there is little confidence the EU will agree to a fair trade deal which would be acceptable to the UK. However, there are signs that leading figures in the EU are beginning to panic about the prospect of no trade deal and loss of free access to the world’s fifth biggest market amid reports that chief negotiator Michel Barnier has been sidelined. Mr Barnier has led a strategy which has seen progress on other areas blocked until Britain gives in on accepting EU “level playing field” regulations and allowing access to British fishing waters. A survey by OnePoll for the Sunday Express this week shows that more than 50 per cent of members of the British public asked think that compromising on EU regulations and fish is unacceptable. The UK team led by David Frost has refused to accept the demands and have been pushing for a deal similar to the one the EU recently struck with Canada. A Downing Street source told the Sunday Express this week: “We just don’t get why they think they can do one type of deal with Canada and not offer Britain, which shares most of its regulations already, the same deal. It just is completely unreasonable.”
UK threatens to starve EU of cash as Brexit fury reaches boiling point
EU's chief negotiator Michel Barnier
They were also said to be “completely bewildered” by a rant from Mr Barnier this week saying that British coastal waters would be sovereign but the fish in them would not be. “We don’t know what he was trying and who he was really talking to,” said the source. The Sunday Express has learnt that a dossier is being considered by Downing Street proposing that the EU could be punished for refusing to strike a deal by limiting access to being able to raise money on the London financial markets. A source has told the Sunday Express that the threat is “set to become a big issue at the end of this week” and “it is currently on the Prime Minister’s desk being considered.” The nuclear option drawn up by senior Brexiteer economists would put the squeeze on major corporations based in the EU who raise trillions of euros on the London markets each year. The combination of different financial rules in the UK and toxic debt in the EU means that they are forced to go to London or New York for equity. With 117 major EU companies listed on the Stock Exchange, the economists behind the dossier believe it is a “magic key” to unlocking a trade deal while regaining full sovereignty. One of the economists behind the proposal, Barney Reynolds, global head of the Financial Services Industry Group, a partner at Shearman and Sterling said: “We should warn the EU that if they refuse to play ball in the talks, we will scrap our protective shield and rectify the dumping and unfair subsidisation in the way that best protects us.
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
The UK negotiating team led by David Frost have warned if talks in London make no progress this week then it will be too late to make a deal
“They would then confront had choices. Either pay a lot more for the billions they need from London’s global markets or face being starved of cash for their big investment projects. “It is time to make clear to Michel Barnier and others that there is a high price to pay for their refusal to engage with the UK’s fair and reasonable proposals for a win-win future relationship.” He added: “Every indication is that the EU is keen to have a deal. They would prefer one that damages the UK – were the UK to agree to that – but when it becomes clear this option is not available, discussions will normalise rapidly.” Meanwhile, sources from Mr Frost’s negotiating team have described this week’s talks as “crucial” with time now running out to strike a deal. A source close to the UK’s chief negotiator pointed out that the UK and EU are entering the final phase of negotiations and while the government wants to reach a deal with the EU there needs to be a new approach from Brussel. The source said: “If we’re going to get there, we need more realism from them on the scale of the change that results from our departure. They need to realise that what they’re asking for is at odds with what the British people voted for, twice, and not something we could ever accept.” The biggest problem remains a self-imposed doctrine of “parallelism” which the Commission is using to stall progress by refusing to settle the simplest issues first, despite our willingness to up the pace and get into the detailed discussions of legal texts.
The EU have refused our offer to allow them to share our consolidated text with member states, wasting opportunities to make progress at this critical stage. The source close to the negotiations said: “We intensified the talks in July in order to reach a broad outline of an agreement this summer. “Due to the EU’s repeated refusal to accept that in key areas we need to do things in our own way, reflecting our new status as a sovereign, independent country, those difficult discussions are ongoing. We now face a critical round of negotiations in London. “We will continue to set out our reasonable arguments, which have remained the same since talks began in February - that we want an agreement based on precedent. It’s time the EU accepted that so we can move on. “The EU must also realise that we are serious about leaving with an Australian style-trading relationship and reclaiming our independence as a sovereign nation if we cannot find acceptable terms. “The whole Government has been extensively preparing to ensure that businesses and citizens are ready for the end of the transition period in any scenario. Outside the customs union, outside the single market and outside the EU.” A Whitehall source added: “For four years now we have been clear that our sovereignty is non-negotiable – and our status as an independent country will not be compromised. This is what the British people voted for and is something we will deliver on 1 January 2021, regardless of the outcome of negotiations.”
The EU have refused our offer to allow them to share our consolidated text with member states


thedailyexpress--2020-09-06--Tories still ahead of Labour in poll as Rishi Sunak clear favourite to replace Boris

Despite fierce controversy over the awarding of GCSE and A-Level grades , the Tories were the choice of 34.57 percent of respondents of an exclusive OnePoll survey for the Sunday Express .
The party came out in front of Sir Keir Starmer ’ s Labour ( 30.22 percent ) and way ahead of Sir Ed Davey ’ s Liberal Democrats ( 5.29 percent ) .
The poll uncovered enduring support for the Brexit Party , despite the UK leaving the European Union earlier this year after 47 years as a member state .
Nearly one in 20 of those polled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Farage turned into a political force .
The Government can expect strong support if it makes a safe and effective coronavirus vaccine compulsory for all UK citizens and visitors , the latest research indicates .
Polling reveals a strong wish to get as much of the population as possible vaccinated .
More than two-thirds ( 64.09 percent ) of respondents to research by OnePoll agreed “ strongly ” or “ somewhat ” that the vaccine should be compulsory when it is developed , unless individuals have a medical reason not to be vaccinated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 18.18 percent ) disagreed somewhat or strongly with compulsory vaccination .
The UK has now secured access to six potential vaccines as scientists around the world race to eradicate the threat to life posed by Covid-19 .
Vaccine campaigns have proven fiercely controversial and have been the target of conspiracy theories but Paul Bristow , a Conservative member of Westminster ’ s health committee , expected strong support for public vaccination .
He said : “ If we get a vaccine it will be a huge breakthrough and we can defeat this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sensible country and I am not surprised that a majority of people want to see everyone vaccinated .
“ I know there ’ s a lot of anti-vax nonsense on social media so the Government must do what it can to counter this .
But I am confident that most of us will want to get vaccinated without any compulsion.
” Health minister Jo Churchill has admitted that while there is a desire to get as many individuals as possible vaccinated , people may have to be prioritised according to the availability of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ different groups .
However , there are no plans to target areas with the highest levels of Covid-19 .
The OnePoll research also uncovers overwhelming support for the lockdown measures that were introduced when the pandemic hit Britain .
Despite the damage that was caused to the economy by the shuttering of businesses , 56.74 percent of people “ strongly ” agreed the UK was right to go into such a tight lockdown , and more than a quarter ( 25.67 percent ) “ somewhat ” agreed .
Only 7.15 percent disagreed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is also resounding support for getting all children in England and Wales back to school .
Nearly seven out of 10 ( 68.08 percent ) supported the return to school with only 13.84 percent opposed .
The strong support for the emergency measures will encourage Prime Minister Boris Johnson , as will polling showing more voters would still vote for the Conservatives in a general election than any other party .
If the PM finds time to take a glance in the rear-view mirror , he may raise an eyebrow at the intense @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Boris Johnson holds Cabinet meeting on return to Westminster
Despite fierce controversy over the awarding of GCSE and A-Level grades, the Tories were the choice of 34.57 percent of respondents of an exclusive OnePoll survey for the Sunday Express. The party came out in front of Sir Keir Starmer’s Labour (30.22 percent) and way ahead of Sir Ed Davey’s Liberal Democrats (5.29 percent).
The poll uncovered enduring support for the Brexit Party, despite the UK leaving the European Union earlier this year after 47 years as a member state. Nearly one in 20 of those polled would vote for the party which Nigel Farage turned into a political force. The Government can expect strong support if it makes a safe and effective coronavirus vaccine compulsory for all UK citizens and visitors, the latest research indicates. Polling reveals a strong wish to get as much of the population as possible vaccinated. More than two-thirds (64.09 percent) of respondents to research by OnePoll agreed “strongly” or “somewhat” that the vaccine should be compulsory when it is developed, unless individuals have a medical reason not to be vaccinated. Fewer than one in five people (18.18 percent) disagreed somewhat or strongly with compulsory vaccination.
Tories still ahead of Labour in poll as Rishi Sunak clear favourite to replace Boris
Nearly one in 20 of those polled would vote for the party which Nigel Farage turned into a political
The UK has now secured access to six potential vaccines as scientists around the world race to eradicate the threat to life posed by Covid-19.
Vaccine campaigns have proven fiercely controversial and have been the target of conspiracy theories but Paul Bristow, a Conservative member of Westminster’s health committee, expected strong support for public vaccination.
He said: “If we get a vaccine it will be a huge breakthrough and we can defeat this virus for good. This is a sensible country and I am not surprised that a majority of people want to see everyone vaccinated.
“I know there’s a lot of anti-vax nonsense on social media so the Government must do what it can to counter this. But I am confident that most of us will want to get vaccinated without any compulsion.”
Health minister Jo Churchill has admitted that while there is a desire to get as many individuals as possible vaccinated, people may have to be prioritised according to the availability of supplies, safety and its effectiveness in different groups. However, there are no plans to target areas with the highest levels of Covid-19.
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
The UK has now secured access to six potential vaccines
Dr Peter English, BMA public health medicine committee chair, said: “While the BMA does not support compulsory vaccination, it’s certainly promising to see public appetite for a Covid-19 vaccine and people taking an active interest in their health. Although we don’t know what a Covid-19 vaccination programme will look like yet, it’s vital that there must be easy access to facilities for all parts of the population to receive protection and maximise uptake.
“For this to happen, there needs to be sufficient funding to deliver fully-resourced services, be that in general practice, the community or through local authorities...
“Of course, there will need to be prioritisation of certain groups, including those eligible for a flu jab, and those who had previously been shielding. We may also wish to prioritise health and social care workers and others whose occupation put them at higher risk.
“Essentially, we will need to focus on those who are at highest risk of more serious health problems if they do contract the illness, ahead of rolling any vaccine out further. Access and information will therefore, be key in ensuring that these patients are being reached.” The OnePoll research also uncovers overwhelming support for the lockdown measures that were introduced when the pandemic hit Britain.
Rishi Sunak is by far the most popular choice to replace Boris Johnson as Prime Minister
Despite the damage that was caused to the economy by the shuttering of businesses, 56.74 percent of people “strongly” agreed the UK was right to go into such a tight lockdown, and more than a quarter (25.67 percent) “somewhat” agreed. Only 7.15 percent disagreed to any extent with the decision. There is also resounding support for getting all children in England and Wales back to school. Nearly seven out of 10 (68.08 percent) supported the return to school with only 13.84 percent opposed.
The strong support for the emergency measures will encourage Prime Minister Boris Johnson, as will polling showing more voters would still vote for the Conservatives in a general election than any other party.
If the PM finds time to take a glance in the rear-view mirror, he may raise an eyebrow at the intense popularity enjoyed by Chancellor Rishi Sunak. The public were asked to respond to rumours – shot down by Downing St – that Mr Johnson may step down in the next six months.