thedailyexpress--2020-07-19--Boris will ‘strike down’ Scotland if it defies Brexit law as SNP panic over ‘power grab'

The warning comes as Westminster and Holyrood are on track for the biggest constitutional showdown since the EU referendum as Nicola Sturgeon 's government threaten to block a major post-Brexit law over accusations of a “ power grab ” .
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and her Scottish National Party ( SNP ) have warned they are prepared to stand in the way of an internal bill , which would give the UK Government the power to set food and environmental standards following the nation ’ s exit from the bloc .
While Michael Russell , SNP cabinet secretary for constitutional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with proposals for its own law to rival that of the UK ’ s .
But Jess Sargeant , senior researcher at think tank The Institute for Government , warned the UK Government could put a rule in place that would block devolved nations passing laws in direct challenge to the proposed UK internal market bill .
She said Mr Johnson ’ s Government could have the power to “ prevent the devolved legislators passing Acts which are in direct contravention ” to major post-Brexit laws passed by Westminster .
She told The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ entirely how this would work , this is a hypothetical situation – but for example , say the Scottish Government wanted to pass a bill that banned the sale of chlorinated chicken , despite the fact it was acceptable in England .
“ It would then be likely there would be some kind of mechanism through which that law could be struck down essentially .
“ It is likely Acts of the Scottish Parliament could be challenged on that basis .
“ The White Paper is not clear how it is going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to pass a law in the UK Parliament that says every part of the UK must recognise standards in every other part of the UK , there is going to have to be some kind of way it prevents the devolved legislators passing Acts which are in direct contravention of that principle.
” Mr Johnson 's Government is expected to bring forward legislation to the House of Commons in the autumn that may entail state aid policies - such as subsidising companies - being reserved to Westminster .
Currently devolved administrations in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ environment , food safety and agriculture .
But Prime Minister Mr Johnson hopes to bring those issues under the UK Government ’ s control with a proposed UK internal market bill after the final say was set by the EU .
This week Ms Sturgeon warned plans for Westminster to withhold state aid powers after the nation ’ s exit would be a `` blatant move to erode the powers of the Scottish Parliament '' in a furious tweet .
She tweeted : `` Make no mistake , this would be a full-scale @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to erode the powers of the Scottish Parliament in key areas .
DO N'T MISS Ian Blackford 's Queen confession amid SNP royal funding row exposed [ INSIGHT ] Sturgeon ’ s ‘ biggest threat ’ to leadership is ‘ frustration ’ at promise [ REVEALED ] Sturgeon savaged for sacrificing Brexit benefits in independence plot [ INFO ] '' If the Tories want to further boost support for independence , this is the way to do it . ''
Mr Russell accused Westminster of attempting one of the `` most shocking pieces @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government '' .
Mr Russell said : “ The Scottish Government now intends to publish a full rebuttal of these proposals and then debate that document in the Scottish Parliament – and we will recommend that the Parliament refuses to give the legislative consent which it will need .
“ We will also now review our work on joint frameworks given the negative impact these proposals will have on them , and furthermore we will seek alignment with EU standards including via the Continuity Bill which we intend to have on the statute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ We will actively oppose the UK Government ’ s proposals at every opportunity , including at every legislative stage , and pursue every avenue to challenge the Bill should it pass – no one should be in any doubt about our determination to defend the powers of the Scottish Parliament and the founding principles of devolution.
” Meanwhile , the SNP ’ s Westminster leader Ian Blackford said the plans were the `` biggest threat to devolution '' since Holyrood was established .
The Westminster Government has drawn up plans for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says is necessary to ensure seamless trade between England , Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland .

Nicola Sturgeon: Brexit is making Scottish population angry
The warning comes as Westminster and Holyrood are on track for the biggest constitutional showdown since the EU referendum as Nicola Sturgeon's government threaten to block a major post-Brexit law over accusations of a “power grab”. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and her Scottish National Party (SNP) have warned they are prepared to stand in the way of an internal bill, which would give the UK Government the power to set food and environmental standards following the nation’s exit from the bloc.
Trending
While Michael Russell, SNP cabinet secretary for constitutional affairs, said Holyrood will plough ahead with proposals for its own law to rival that of the UK’s. But Jess Sargeant, senior researcher at think tank The Institute for Government, warned the UK Government could put a rule in place that would block devolved nations passing laws in direct challenge to the proposed UK internal market bill. She said Mr Johnson’s Government could have the power to “prevent the devolved legislators passing Acts which are in direct contravention” to major post-Brexit laws passed by Westminster. She told The National: “It is not clear entirely how this would work, this is a hypothetical situation – but for example, say the Scottish Government wanted to pass a bill that banned the sale of chlorinated chicken, despite the fact it was acceptable in England.
Boris Johnson will have the power to “strike down” Scotland if it attempts to defy the UK
Sturgeon warned plans for Westminster to withhold state aid powers would encourage independence
“It would then be likely there would be some kind of mechanism through which that law could be struck down essentially. “It is likely Acts of the Scottish Parliament could be challenged on that basis. “The White Paper is not clear how it is going to do it, but if you are going to pass a law in the UK Parliament that says every part of the UK must recognise standards in every other part of the UK, there is going to have to be some kind of way it prevents the devolved legislators passing Acts which are in direct contravention of that principle.” Mr Johnson's Government is expected to bring forward legislation to the House of Commons in the autumn that may entail state aid policies - such as subsidising companies - being reserved to Westminster. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: Businesses panic as Boris calls EU's bluff
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Michael Russell, SNP cabinet secretary for constitutional affairs, said Holyrood will plough ahead with proposals for its own law to rival that of the UK’s
Currently devolved administrations in Scotland and Wales oversea policy areas including environment, food safety and agriculture. But Prime Minister Mr Johnson hopes to bring those issues under the UK Government’s control with a proposed UK internal market bill after the final say was set by the EU. This week Ms Sturgeon warned plans for Westminster to withhold state aid powers after the nation’s exit would be a "blatant move to erode the powers of the Scottish Parliament" in a furious tweet. She tweeted: "Make no mistake, this would be a full-scale assault on devolution - a blatant move to erode the powers of the Scottish Parliament in key areas. DON'T MISS
Ian Blackford's Queen confession amid SNP royal funding row exposed [INSIGHT]
Sturgeon’s ‘biggest threat’ to leadership is ‘frustration’ at promise [REVEALED]
Sturgeon savaged for sacrificing Brexit benefits in independence plot [INFO]
An anti-Brexit rally in Scotland
SNP’s Westminster leader Ian Blackford said the plans were the "biggest threat to devolution"
"If the Tories want to further boost support for independence, this is the way to do it." Mr Russell accused Westminster of attempting one of the "most shocking pieces of dishonesty I have seen from a government". Mr Russell said: “The Scottish Government now intends to publish a full rebuttal of these proposals and then debate that document in the Scottish Parliament – and we will recommend that the Parliament refuses to give the legislative consent which it will need. “We will also now review our work on joint frameworks given the negative impact these proposals will have on them, and furthermore we will seek alignment with EU standards including via the Continuity Bill which we intend to have on the statute book by the end of the year.
Brexit timeline revealed
“We will actively oppose the UK Government’s proposals at every opportunity, including at every legislative stage, and pursue every avenue to challenge the Bill should it pass – no one should be in any doubt about our determination to defend the powers of the Scottish Parliament and the founding principles of devolution.” Meanwhile, the SNP’s Westminster leader Ian Blackford said the plans were the "biggest threat to devolution" since Holyrood was established. The Westminster Government has drawn up plans for a new "internal market" it says is necessary to ensure seamless trade between England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.


thedailyexpress--2020-07-19--Boris Johnson left red faced in intelligence chairman blunder

The Prime Minister was embarrassed last week when veteran Tory MP and ex-defence committee chairman Julian Lewis did a deal with opposition MPs to snatch the chairmanship of the powerful committee .
Dr Lewis , who has denied claims by the whips that he made a promise to support Mr Grayling as chairman , has been thrown out of the parliamentary party as a result of his actions .
It is understood that the preferred candidate for several cabinet ministers including Michael Gove was former security minister Sir John Hayes who knows the brief but also has a record of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sources have said that at the beginning of the Conservative leadership contest Mr Grayling offered his support to Mr Johnson if he agreed to make him chair of the ISC .
A source said : “ The Prime Minister felt honour bound to do it even if he was getting advice to go for another candidate .
He has been punished for keeping his word.
” Instead , now there is a concern in the Government that with Dr Lewis out of the party the Opposition will have a majority on the committee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ critical reports .
A senior Tory MP said : “ The government is in a catch 22 situation .
If it keeps the committee it could have a series of critical reports to deal with but if it reconstitutes the committee then it will look as though it is trying to control it .
“ While various senior Conservative MPs were interested in being chairman before none of them want to look like a government poodle which is what would happen if Julian Lewis is replaced .
”

Julian Lewis appointed chair of Intelligence committee
The Prime Minister was embarrassed last week when veteran Tory MP and ex-defence committee chairman Julian Lewis did a deal with opposition MPs to snatch the chairmanship of the powerful committee. Dr Lewis, who has denied claims by the whips that he made a promise to support Mr Grayling as chairman, has been thrown out of the parliamentary party as a result of his actions.
MP Julian Lewis did a deal with opposition Tories to become chairman
It is understood that the preferred candidate for several cabinet ministers including Michael Gove was former security minister Sir John Hayes who knows the brief but also has a record of working well with Labour. However, sources have said that at the beginning of the Conservative leadership contest Mr Grayling offered his support to Mr Johnson if he agreed to make him chair of the ISC. A source said: “The Prime Minister felt honour bound to do it even if he was getting advice to go for another candidate. He has been punished for keeping his word.”
Boris Johnson was left embarrassed when a Tory MP struck a deal to become committee chairman
Instead, now there is a concern in the Government that with Dr Lewis out of the party the Opposition will have a majority on the committee which could lead to a series of critical reports. A senior Tory MP said: “The government is in a catch 22 situation. If it keeps the committee it could have a series of critical reports to deal with but if it reconstitutes the committee then it will look as though it is trying to control it. “While various senior Conservative MPs were interested in being chairman before none of them want to look like a government poodle which is what would happen if Julian Lewis is replaced.”


thedailyexpress--2020-07-19--'Nightingale' courts to fast-track justice case build-up following pandemic

A whopping 354 murder cases and 1,159 rape cases were waiting to be dealt with in crown courts by the end of March , figures revealed .
The temporary courts are the latest effort by the Government to ensure that justice is not derailed by the Covid-19 crisis .
Venues for the courts include the Ministry of Justice 's headquarters in London , the Knights ' Chamber at Peterborough Cathedral and Middlesbrough Town Hall .
The courts will hear civil and family cases as well as noncustodial crime cases .
This will free up room in existing courts for custodial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dock facilities .
Justice Secretary Robert Buckland is understood to have argued very strongly behind the scenes for the new measures .
He said : `` Together with the judiciary , courts staff and legal sector , I am determined that we must pursue every available option to ensure our courts recover as quickly as possible . ''
Nearly half of all courts were closed in March when the country went into lockdown .
Jury trials were paused .
Some trials resumed in May , and the justice system took steps to ensure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ orders and children could be safeguarded .
Labour has said the scale of the backlog was `` wholly avoidable '' and claimed the Government `` owes every victim an apology '' .
Shadow justice minister Peter Kyle was highly critical of the Government .
He said : `` The justice system has been brought to its knees by a double whammy of prolonged under-investment followed by the Covid crisis .
`` As a result , thousands of victims of violent sexual crimes and murder are being denied the swift justice they deserve .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of victims worse and can lead to difficulties with prosecution . ''
The Government is considering opening more Nightingale Courts and is looking at options to ease pressure on the judicial system .
This includes opening courts for longer , and increasing the number of cases that can be heard on any given day .
New video technology , which has been used in the majority of hearings since the outbreak began , is also being rolled out .
In addition , some £142million has been announced to improve more than 100 courts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chairman of the justice select committee , described the scale of the backlog as `` very troubling '' .
He said : `` The backlog in the crown court is already unacceptably high , which in turn is unfair both upon defendants , especially those remanded in custody , and upon witnesses waiting to give evidence about very traumatic events .
`` The Government must make extra money available to ensure that all courts sit to maximum capacity for as long as it takes to get this backlog down and give priority to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ efforts come as the total number of UK coronavirus deaths reached 45,273 , with an increase of 40 yesterday .
The Sunday Express has learnt there are allegedly concerns in Whitehall that Chief Scientific Adviser Sir Patrick Vallance and other experts could be trying to distance themselves from controversial decisions in preparation for the future independent inquiry .
A source said that `` emails are pinging around '' saying , `` we told you this on such and such a date '' .
The source said : `` There 's a lot of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is understood Sir Patrick 's appearance with a mask in front of the health committee last week was described as `` a deliberate snub '' of the Prime Minister 's plans to unlock the country by Christmas .
Asked about the Government relationship with Sir Patrick , a government spokesman said : `` We are extremely grateful to the Chief Scientific Adviser and all our scientific and medical experts for their contributions and hard work throughout this pandemic .
We greatly value their expertise and their advice continues to inform government decision-making and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Meanwhile , there are worries that the chances of pubs and cafes recovering from the impact of the lockdown could be dealt a blow if councils are given the power to ban smoking at pavement seating .
On Monday , peers are due to vote on a Labour amendment that would allow local authorities to ban smoking in areas covered by pavement licences .
The Local Government Association supports the amendment and argues smokefree pavements will help high streets recover .
But TV chef and restaurateur Antony Worrall Thompson said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the LGA want to discourage a substantial number of people from returning to pubs , cafes and restaurants ?
For smokers it is one of the few remaining pleasures , sitting enjoying a glass of wine or a pint of beer . ''
In a further move , new public buildings will have to be equipped with `` changing places '' toilets for the disabled .
More than 250,000 people are expected to benefit from the new requirements at sites in England , including shopping centres and sports stadiums .

'Nightingale' courts to fast-track case build-up following pandemic
A whopping 354 murder cases and 1,159 rape cases were waiting to be dealt with in crown courts by the end of March, figures revealed. The temporary courts are the latest effort by the Government to ensure that justice is not derailed by the Covid-19 crisis.
Venues for the courts include the Ministry of Justice's headquarters in London, the Knights' Chamber at Peterborough Cathedral and Middlesbrough Town Hall. The courts will hear civil and family cases as well as noncustodial crime cases. This will free up room in existing courts for custodial jury trials that require cells and secure dock facilities. Justice Secretary Robert Buckland is understood to have argued very strongly behind the scenes for the new measures. He said: "Together with the judiciary, courts staff and legal sector, I am determined that we must pursue every available option to ensure our courts recover as quickly as possible." Nearly half of all courts were closed in March when the country went into lockdown. Jury trials were paused.
Justice Secretary Robert Buckland
Some trials resumed in May, and the justice system took steps to ensure that domestic abuse victims could obtain protection orders and children could be safeguarded. Labour has said the scale of the backlog was "wholly avoidable" and claimed the Government "owes every victim an apology". Shadow justice minister Peter Kyle was highly critical of the Government. He said: "The justice system has been brought to its knees by a double whammy of prolonged under-investment followed by the Covid crisis. "As a result, thousands of victims of violent sexual crimes and murder are being denied the swift justice they deserve. "Delays like this make the suffering of victims worse and can lead to difficulties with prosecution." The Government is considering opening more Nightingale Courts and is looking at options to ease pressure on the judicial system.
The Government is considering opening more Nightingale Courts and is looking at options to ease pressure on the judicial system
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This includes opening courts for longer, and increasing the number of cases that can be heard on any given day. New video technology, which has been used in the majority of hearings since the outbreak began, is also being rolled out. In addition, some £142million has been announced to improve more than 100 courts. Sir Bob Neill, the Tory chairman of the justice select committee, described the scale of the backlog as "very troubling". He said: "The backlog in the crown court is already unacceptably high, which in turn is unfair both upon defendants, especially those remanded in custody, and upon witnesses waiting to give evidence about very traumatic events. "The Government must make extra money available to ensure that all courts sit to maximum capacity for as long as it takes to get this backlog down and give priority to these particularly serious cases."
The efforts come as the total number of UK coronavirus deaths reached 45,273, with an increase of 40 yesterday. The Sunday Express has learnt there are allegedly concerns in Whitehall that Chief Scientific Adviser Sir Patrick Vallance and other experts could be trying to distance themselves from controversial decisions in preparation for the future independent inquiry. A source said that "emails are pinging around" saying, "we told you this on such and such a date". The source said: "There's a lot of **** covering going on." It is understood Sir Patrick's appearance with a mask in front of the health committee last week was described as "a deliberate snub" of the Prime Minister's plans to unlock the country by Christmas. Asked about the Government relationship with Sir Patrick, a government spokesman said: "We are extremely grateful to the Chief Scientific Adviser and all our scientific and medical experts for their contributions and hard work throughout this pandemic. We greatly value their expertise and their advice continues to inform government decision-making and the national strategic response to coronavirus."
Chief Scientific Adviser Sir Patrick Vallance and other experts could be trying to distance themselves from controversial decisions in preparation for the future independent inquiry


thedailyexpress--2020-07-19--Russia accused of 'meddling' in Scottish referendum to try and help SNP's independence bid

The shock warning comes as it has long been suggested Vladimir Putin ’ s government used social media to spread false information around the time of the momentous vote .
The claims have been strongly denied by Russia but the Intelligence and Security Committee ( ISC ) is expected to raise concerns over Moscow ’ s interference in Scottish politics , including the 2014 referendum , with former SNP leader Alex Salmond at the helm at the time .
It was believed Russia would benefit from Scottish independence as it would weaken the UK and NATO by putting Trident ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ foreign affairs spokesman , Alyn Smith , told The Times ahead of the report publication on Tuesday : “ There ’ s not a doubt in my mind that there are bad actors active in the Scottish debate , especially online.
” Mr Salmond launched his own weekly television programme alongside his SNP colleague former MP Tasmina Ahmed-Sheikh on the state sponsored Russia Today channel .
Scotland voted against leaving the UK in 2014 ’ s referendum by 55.3 percent to 44.7 percent .
There is no suggestion the SNP were aware of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It has long been claimed Russia also used cyber-bots to try and influence other elections in Europe , including Brexit .
Former British ambassador to Russia Sir Andrew Wood previously warned the Kremlin may seek to interfere in a future Scottish independence referendum organised by Scottish First Minister NicolaSturgeon .
Sir Andrew said Russia would seek to break up the UK and this presents a `` widespread set of risks '' for its democracy .
READ MORE : Why Brexit really was anything but a Russian revolution But Facebook said fake Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the social media platform during the US 2016 presidential election .
The release of the report comes just a week after claims Russia ’ s intelligence services tried to steal details of research into coronavirus vaccines .
At the same time , Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said `` Russian actors '' had tried to interfere in last year 's general election by `` amplifying '' stolen government papers online .
On Thursday , Britain , the US and Canada claimed a group of hackers , known as the Dukes or Cozy Bear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had targeted research bodies around the world - including in the UK .
DO N'T MISS Kremlin fury : Russia claims UK cyber-attacks tried to sabotage Putin [ CLAIMS ] MPs warn Russia report mustn ’ t be used to undermine Brexit [ WARNING ] Corbyn leadership ripped to shreds as Labour 'got it wrong ' on Russia [ INSIGHT ] Speaking this morning Mr Raab said the UK will make sure the world knows the nature of the `` reprehensible behaviour '' that Russia is engaged in .
He told Sky News @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're absolutely confident that the Russian intelligence agencies were engaged in a cyber attack on research and development efforts and organisations in this country and internationally with a view either to sabotage or to profit from the R & D that was taking place .
`` And I think the point is first of all we 've seen this as part of a wider systematic approach to cyber taken by Russia and at the time that the world is coming together to try and tackle COVID-19 , particularly come up with a global @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's outrageous and reprehensible that the Russian Government is engaged in this activity .
`` So what we 're doing with our allies is making sure people know , making sure the organisations know so that they can better defend against it , but also just calling Russia out , we will do this .
`` Now you will see us holding Russia to account and making sure that the world knows the nature of the reprehensible behaviour that they 're engaged in .
But Russia 's ambassador to the UK , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there was `` no sense '' in the allegations made the three Western allies .
In an interview with BBC1 's The Andrew Marr show , Mr Kelin said his country had no interest in interfering in British domestic politics .

Russia: Andrei Kelin claims ‘several cyber attacks’ came from UK
The shock warning comes as it has long been suggested Vladimir Putin’s government used social media to spread false information around the time of the momentous vote. The claims have been strongly denied by Russia but the Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) is expected to raise concerns over Moscow’s interference in Scottish politics, including the 2014 referendum, with former SNP leader Alex Salmond at the helm at the time. It was believed Russia would benefit from Scottish independence as it would weaken the UK and NATO by putting Trident’s future under threat.
Trending
The SNP foreign affairs spokesman, Alyn Smith, told The Times ahead of the report publication on Tuesday: “There’s not a doubt in my mind that there are bad actors active in the Scottish debate, especially online.” Mr Salmond launched his own weekly television programme alongside his SNP colleague former MP Tasmina Ahmed-Sheikh on the state sponsored Russia Today channel. Scotland voted against leaving the UK in 2014’s referendum by 55.3 percent to 44.7 percent. There is no suggestion the SNP were aware of Russia's attempts to influence the vote.
Russia 'meddled' in Scottish politics, a report is set to warn
Russia strongly denies the claims
It has long been claimed Russia also used cyber-bots to try and influence other elections in Europe, including Brexit. Former British ambassador to Russia Sir Andrew Wood previously warned the Kremlin may seek to interfere in a future Scottish independence referendum organised by Scottish First Minister NicolaSturgeon. Sir Andrew said Russia would seek to break up the UK and this presents a "widespread set of risks" for its democracy. Russia has repeatedly denied meddling in foreign elections. READ MORE: Why Brexit really was anything but a Russian revolution
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Chair of the intelligence and security committee (ISC) MP Julian Lewis
But Facebook said fake Russian adverts were seen by almost 150million users of the social media platform during the US 2016 presidential election. The release of the report comes just a week after claims Russia’s intelligence services tried to steal details of research into coronavirus vaccines. At the same time, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said "Russian actors" had tried to interfere in last year's general election by "amplifying" stolen government papers online. On Thursday, Britain, the US and Canada claimed a group of hackers, known as the Dukes or Cozy Bear - with links to Russian intelligence, had targeted research bodies around the world - including in the UK. DON'T MISS
Kremlin fury: Russia claims UK cyber-attacks tried to sabotage Putin [CLAIMS]
MPs warn Russia report mustn’t be used to undermine Brexit [WARNING]
Corbyn leadership ripped to shreds as Labour 'got it wrong' on Russia [INSIGHT]
It was believed Russia would benefit from Scottish independence as it would weaken the UK and NATO by putting Trident’s future under threat
Alex Salmond launched his own weekly television programme alongside his SNP colleague former MP Tasmina Ahmed-Sheikh on the state sponsored Russia Today channel
Speaking this morning Mr Raab said the UK will make sure the world knows the nature of the "reprehensible behaviour" that Russia is engaged in. He told Sky News' Sophy Ridge programme: "We're absolutely confident that the Russian intelligence agencies were engaged in a cyber attack on research and development efforts and organisations in this country and internationally with a view either to sabotage or to profit from the R&D that was taking place. "And I think the point is first of all we've seen this as part of a wider systematic approach to cyber taken by Russia and at the time that the world is coming together to try and tackle COVID-19, particularly come up with a global solution for a vaccine, I think it's outrageous and reprehensible that the Russian Government is engaged in this activity. "So what we're doing with our allies is making sure people know, making sure the organisations know so that they can better defend against it, but also just calling Russia out, we will do this.
The SNP rally for Scottish independence
"Now you will see us holding Russia to account and making sure that the world knows the nature of the reprehensible behaviour that they're engaged in. But Russia's ambassador to the UK, Andrei Kelin, rejected claims, saying there was "no sense" in the allegations made the three Western allies. In an interview with BBC1's The Andrew Marr show, Mr Kelin said his country had no interest in interfering in British domestic politics.


thedailyexpress--2020-07-19--Top Tory: Boris is right, we'll be over coronavirus by Christmas

The Prime Minister last week raised eyebrows when he set out his hopes for securing a “ significant return to normality ” in time for Christmas .
This upbeat assessment of Britain ’ s chances of moving on from the pandemic contrasted with the pessimism of a top scientist .
Professor John Edmunds , a member of the Government ’ s Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( Sage ) , claimed a return to pre-lockdown normality is “ a long way off ” .
But Mr Shapps insisted it is “ possible that we can get there ” .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people a road map , really , so we can give people some hope whilst planning for the worst as well .
We want to give people some sense of direction , because a lot of people are running businesses or rely on the Christmas period and need to know that if everything goes well that this is our intention .
“ But you can ’ t get away from the fact that the virus is still , in many ways , a bit of an unknown , and of course it depends @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good and alert we are in terms of all the things we know , like washing your hands and for the time being keeping that social distance of one metre-plus . ''
Mr Johnson stoked hopes that more lockdown measures can be ditched in last week ’ s Downing St briefing in which he announced relaxed work-from-home guidance and paved the way for theatres and sports stadiums to reopen .
He described it as his “ strong and sincere hope ” that ministers would be able to review the remaining restrictions from November @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Christmas ” .
Mr Shapps also became the first senior politician to declare he is taking a summer holiday abroad this year .
He told Radio 4 he and his wife Belinda had decided to take advantage of the relaxation of Foreign Office guidance on non-essential overseas travel .
“ My wife looked at all of these new changes that were made and has now booked a break for the first time for a couple of years , ” he said .
This contrasts with the pledges of senior MPs including the PM @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they would take a “ staycation ” .

Boris Johnson: I hope for 'normality’ in November
The Prime Minister last week raised eyebrows when he set out his hopes for securing a “significant return to normality” in time for Christmas. This upbeat assessment of Britain’s chances of moving on from the pandemic contrasted with the pessimism of a top scientist.
Professor John Edmunds, a member of the Government’s Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage), claimed a return to pre-lockdown normality is “a long way off”.
But Mr Shapps insisted it is “possible that we can get there”.
He said: “It’s giving people a road map, really, so we can give people some hope whilst planning for the worst as well. We want to give people some sense of direction, because a lot of people are running businesses or rely on the Christmas period and need to know that if everything goes well that this is our intention.
“But you can’t get away from the fact that the virus is still, in many ways, a bit of an unknown, and of course it depends how millions of people respond and how good and alert we are in terms of all the things we know, like washing your hands and for the time being keeping that social distance of one metre-plus."
Top Tory: Boris is right, we'll be over coronavirus by Christmas
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps
Mr Johnson stoked hopes that more lockdown measures can be ditched in last week’s Downing St briefing in which he announced relaxed work-from-home guidance and paved the way for theatres and sports stadiums to reopen. He described it as his “strong and sincere hope” that ministers would be able to review the remaining restrictions from November onwards, “possibly in time for Christmas”. Mr Shapps also became the first senior politician to declare he is taking a summer holiday abroad this year. He told Radio 4 he and his wife Belinda had decided to take advantage of the relaxation of Foreign Office guidance on non-essential overseas travel. “My wife looked at all of these new changes that were made and has now booked a break for the first time for a couple of years,” he said. This contrasts with the pledges of senior MPs including the PM and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer that they would take a “staycation”.


thedailyexpress--2020-07-19--New bid to scrap ‘cruel’ benefits rules which punish terminally ill

Campaigners have condemned rules which mean that people who may be “ completely paralysed , ventilated and unable to speak ” are forced to reapply for Government help to prevent their payments being stopped if they live longer than expected .
Newport East MP Jessica Morden will introduce her own Bill in the hopes it will “ spur the government into action ” .
Ms Morden said : “ In order to access benefits quickly , people with unpredictable terminal conditions like Motor Neurone Disease are having to prove that they have six months or less left to live ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if they live longer than three years .
“ A long and frustrating year has passed since the government announced its review into access to benefits for terminally ill people .
It ’ s heartbreaking that people living with terminal illnesses and their families are forced to spend their final months together wrestling with the complexities of a deeply unfair benefits system .
“ The ‘ six month rule ’ and three year award are cruel and need to be scrapped.
” Strong support has come from the Motor Neurone Disease Association , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ every day while waiting for benefits ” .
Chief executive Sally Light said : “ Both patients and doctors have been clear that the six month rule simply does not work .
It particularly disadvantages people living with unpredictable terminal conditions such as motor neurone disease , for whom it is not possible to predict life expectancy with accuracy.
” She said that people who can not work because of their terminal illnesses have been required to attend “ work coaching appointments ” and claimed the present system is “ unworkable and unfair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year since the Government announced its review of this issue and the lack of progress has been a source of great frustration and disappointment for people living with terminal conditions , ” she said .
“ The Government must publish its review as soon as possible and deliver a fair and compassionate system to support people living with a terminal illness.
” Newport East ’ s Ms Morden added : “ The issue of access to benefits for terminally ill people is one that cuts to the core of the values of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Justin Tomlinson , the minister for disabled people , has signalled that change is coming .
Speaking in the Commons , he said he is “ passionate about making changes , ” adding : “ It will not be the status quo .
Covid-19 caused a delay to the final part of the consultation with the medical professionals , but we will bring forward a change shortly .
”

Justin Tomlinson 'passionate' about making changes to PIP
Campaigners have condemned rules which mean that people who may be “completely paralysed, ventilated and unable to speak” are forced to reapply for Government help to prevent their payments being stopped if they live longer than expected.
Newport East MP Jessica Morden will introduce her own Bill in the hopes it will “spur the government into action”.
Ms Morden said: “In order to access benefits quickly, people with unpredictable terminal conditions like Motor Neurone Disease are having to prove that they have six months or less left to live; and they risk losing their benefits altogether if they live longer than three years. “A long and frustrating year has passed since the government announced its review into access to benefits for terminally ill people. It’s heartbreaking that people living with terminal illnesses and their families are forced to spend their final months together wrestling with the complexities of a deeply unfair benefits system. “The ‘six month rule’ and three year award are cruel and need to be scrapped.” Strong support has come from the Motor Neurone Disease Association, which claims “10 people have died every day while waiting for benefits”.
New bid to scrap ‘cruel’ benefits rules which punish terminally ill
Newport East MP Jessica Morden will introduce her own Bill
Chief executive Sally Light said: “Both patients and doctors have been clear that the six month rule simply does not work. It particularly disadvantages people living with unpredictable terminal conditions such as motor neurone disease, for whom it is not possible to predict life expectancy with accuracy.” She said that people who cannot work because of their terminal illnesses have been required to attend “work coaching appointments” and claimed the present system is “unworkable and unfair”. “It is now a year since the Government announced its review of this issue and the lack of progress has been a source of great frustration and disappointment for people living with terminal conditions,” she said. “The Government must publish its review as soon as possible and deliver a fair and compassionate system to support people living with a terminal illness.”
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thedailyexpress--2020-07-20--EU leaders stun Brussels in Brexit revolt after members refuse to fund no deal crisis plan

Brussels has demanded EU countries fund a €5 billion Brexit reserve fund to protect countries most at risk of economic turmoil after the UK leaves the bloc .
However , according to RTE , Sweden has voiced fierce opposition to the plans at the European Union summit in Brussels this weekend .
Europe Editor Tony Connelly said that EU member-states are furious at the additional funding demand because `` Brexit has nothing to do with the pandemic '' .
Connelly explained : `` In order to placate countries like Ireland , Charles Michel introduced this idea of a Brexit reserve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Europe was going to refit its economy for a post-pandemic world , you have to take into asymmetric shocks like Brexit that will affect how economies will emerge from the pandemic .
`` There is a figure of 5bn in there .
But , I understand that not everyone is happy with this idea .
`` The Swedes in particular have been muttering about why Brexit should be part of this recovery fund . ''
JUST IN : Angela Merkel 's panic-stricken warning on EU ’ s post-Brexit future He continued : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do with the impact of pandemic but it is on the table and it 's for the European Commission to work out how to allocate the Brexit money around the EU .
`` Would it be allocated by the fall in trade flows from the UK or a drop in GDP ? ''
He added the €5 billion fund for countries and sectors hit by Brexit to a draft plan for the European Union ’ s next budget and recovery package .
At the time , Mr Michel said : `` Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that is why we propose a Brexit reserve of five billion euros `` Brexit with or without an agreement on future ties will have consequences in Europe for the member states and that 's why I think it 's necessary to ask the commission to prepare for a needs assessment by November 2021 . ''
Belgium and Ireland in particular will benefit from the Brexit crisis fund , citing that they would be disproportionately affected by Brexit as close trading partners of the UK .
China threat : Taiwan aims US missiles at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ian Blackford ridiculed in Commons backlash [ VIDEO ] Lockdown POLL : Are you happy to return to the office ?
VOTE [ POLL ]

Brexit: EU reluctant over inclusion in recovery fund says expert
Brussels has demanded EU countries fund a €5 billion Brexit reserve fund to protect countries most at risk of economic turmoil after the UK leaves the bloc. However, according to RTE, Sweden has voiced fierce opposition to the plans at the European Union summit in Brussels this weekend. Europe Editor Tony Connelly said that EU member-states are furious at the additional funding demand because "Brexit has nothing to do with the pandemic".
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Connelly explained: "In order to placate countries like Ireland, Charles Michel introduced this idea of a Brexit reserve fund. "The idea was if Europe was going to refit its economy for a post-pandemic world, you have to take into asymmetric shocks like Brexit that will affect how economies will emerge from the pandemic. "There is a figure of 5bn in there. But, I understand that not everyone is happy with this idea. "The Swedes in particular have been muttering about why Brexit should be part of this recovery fund." JUST IN: Angela Merkel's panic-stricken warning on EU’s post-Brexit future
Brussels has demanded EU countries fund a €5 billion Brexit reserve fund
Europe Editor Tony Connelly said that EU member-states are furious at the additional funding demand because "Brexit has nothing to do with the pandemic"
He continued: "In their view, Brexit has nothing to do with the impact of pandemic but it is on the table and it's for the European Commission to work out how to allocate the Brexit money around the EU. "Would it be allocated by the fall in trade flows from the UK or a drop in GDP?" European Council President Charles Michel announced the Brexit reserve fund proposal in June. He added the €5 billion fund for countries and sectors hit by Brexit to a draft plan for the European Union’s next budget and recovery package.
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Belgium and Ireland in particular will benefit from the Brexit crisis fund
Brexit: UK ‘fell into EU’s trap’ with Theresa May says Hewertson
At the time, Mr Michel said: "Brexit is challenging for all of us and that is why we propose a Brexit reserve of five billion euros "Brexit with or without an agreement on future ties will have consequences in Europe for the member states and that's why I think it's necessary to ask the commission to prepare for a needs assessment by November 2021." Belgium and Ireland in particular will benefit from the Brexit crisis fund, citing that they would be disproportionately affected by Brexit as close trading partners of the UK. DON'T MISS: China threat: Taiwan aims US missiles at Beijing [VIDEO]
SNP humiliated: Ian Blackford ridiculed in Commons backlash [VIDEO]
Lockdown POLL: Are you happy to return to the office? VOTE [POLL]
The summit in Brussels is the the first face-to-face talks of the 27 European Union heads since lockdowns took hold in March


thedailyexpress--2020-07-19--End of the EU? Mammoth coronavirus rescue package revealing deep 'divisions' in Brussels

Xavier Bettel said in his seven years as Luxembourg 's Prime Minister has he `` rarely seen such diametrically opposing positions '' from the member states .
The bloc 's plan to breathe new life into economies throttled by the coronavirus pandemic hung in the balance on Sunday as leaders quarrelled over how to carve up a vast recovery fund .
Speaking in his doorstep statement , Mr Bettel paid tribute to European Council President Charles Michel for chairing the meeting , whom he said : “ I must say… does not have an easy task .
“ I ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ diametrically opposing position on many points . ''
He said if European economies cave due to the pressure of the epidemic it will have a ripple effect throughout the bloc .
He said : `` It is a moment of solidarity for all of us because if some countries collapse , I believe it can also have repercussions on others.
” Mr Bettel said it was possible for some to have “ a right to examine ” aspects of governance , but those are decisions “ we take together.
” After three days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU states are still seeking a compromise on the fund .
As the leaders haggled into the evening over a plan designed to help haul Europe out of its deepest recession since World War Two , diplomats said it was not clear if they would abandon the summit and try again next month , or plough on through the night .
European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde told Reuters it would be better for the EU leaders to agree on an `` ambitious '' aid package than to have a quick deal at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chaos : Future of Brussels at risk as infighting begins She said : `` Ideally , the leaders ' agreement should be ambitious in terms of size and composition of the package , even if it takes a bit more time . ''
On the table is a €1.8 trillion package for the bloc 's next long-term budget and recovery fund .
The €750 billion proposed for the recovery fund would be raised on capital markets by the EU 's executive European Commission and funnelled mostly to hard-hit Mediterranean rim countries .
DO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being torn to shreds over COVID crisis [ INSIGHT ] 'Will anything be left of Irish independence ? '
Diplomat attacks Martin [ ANALYSIS ] EU future in crisis : Macron and Merkel storm out of Brussels summit [ EXPLAINED ] A group of `` frugal '' wealthy northern countries have pushed for a smaller recovery fund .
And they have been trying to limit the split between grants and repayable loans , which has underscored the gulf between the EU 's north and south .
By Sunday afternoon , diplomats said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in grants .
This figure was down from a proposed €500 billion as a possible compromise with the thrifty north , though Italy was opposing conditions which the Netherlands wants attached when the money is disbursed .
One diplomat said : `` The volume of grants is make or break . ''
There were also differences over a proposed new rule-of-law mechanism that could freeze funding to countries flouting democratic principles , the envoys said .
Hungary , backed by its eurosceptic ally Poland , has threatened to veto the package if its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on upholding democracy that are sought by more liberal states in the bloc 's north and west .

EU: 'Diplomacy is slipping' at summit claims expert
Xavier Bettel said in his seven years as Luxembourg's Prime Minister has he "rarely seen such diametrically opposing positions" from the member states. The bloc's plan to breathe new life into economies throttled by the coronavirus pandemic hung in the balance on Sunday as leaders quarrelled over how to carve up a vast recovery fund.
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Speaking in his doorstep statement, Mr Bettel paid tribute to European Council President Charles Michel for chairing the meeting, whom he said: “I must say… does not have an easy task. “I’ve rarely seen over seven years such diametrically opposing position on many points." He said if European economies cave due to the pressure of the epidemic it will have a ripple effect throughout the bloc. He said: "It is a moment of solidarity for all of us because if some countries collapse, I believe it can also have repercussions on others.”
Luxembourg's PM has said he has rarely seen such division within the EU as he has this weekend
Xavier Bettel and Emmanuel Macron
Mr Bettel said it was possible for some to have “a right to examine” aspects of governance, but those are decisions “we take together.” After three days of meetings in Brussels, the 27 EU states are still seeking a compromise on the fund. As the leaders haggled into the evening over a plan designed to help haul Europe out of its deepest recession since World War Two, diplomats said it was not clear if they would abandon the summit and try again next month, or plough on through the night. European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde told Reuters it would be better for the EU leaders to agree on an "ambitious" aid package than to have a quick deal at any cost. READ MORE: EU chaos: Future of Brussels at risk as infighting begins
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Leaders engage in talks on an outdoor terrace
PM Bettel wears a mask as he arrives for talks
European Council President Charles Michel
A group of "frugal" wealthy northern countries have pushed for a smaller recovery fund. And they have been trying to limit the split between grants and repayable loans, which has underscored the gulf between the EU's north and south. By Sunday afternoon, diplomats said the leaders were looking at about €350 billion in grants.
This figure was down from a proposed €500 billion as a possible compromise with the thrifty north, though Italy was opposing conditions which the Netherlands wants attached when the money is disbursed.
EU: Mark Rutte calls for ‘strong Europe in an unstable world’
One diplomat said: "The volume of grants is make or break." There were also differences over a proposed new rule-of-law mechanism that could freeze funding to countries flouting democratic principles, the envoys said. Hungary, backed by its eurosceptic ally Poland, has threatened to veto the package if its disbursement is made dependent on meeting conditions on upholding democracy that are sought by more liberal states in the bloc's north and west.
Leaders wear masks as they prepare to take part in talks


thedailyexpress--2020-07-19--Nicola Sturgeon takes swipe at Boris as she insists 'she's realistic' during coronavirus

The Scottish First Minister said she sometimes feels like the “ voice of doom ” as she discussed her “ cautious ” response to the coronavirus crisis .
She said : “ I do sometimes feel like I am the voice of doom , but I have a duty to be realistic.
” Ms Sturgeon also launched an attacked the UK Government over their “ mixed messaging ” during the coronavirus pandemic , which have not been “ clear enough ” .
She said : “ I have tried to impose self-discipline about not criticising other leaders elsewhere because we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ I am pretty sure everybody is trying to do their best but I think mixed messaging has been an issue from the UK government , both in not being clear enough about the decisions they are taking where they apply to England only , so there is the potential for confusion , but also just mixed messaging in saying : ‘ Get back to work ’ , but also ‘ the virus is still a threat ’ .
” But , speaking to The Scotsman , Ms Sturgeon insisted “ I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in my body ” after she threatened to impose quarantine measures on visitors from England into Scotland .
She added : “ I am a passionate believer in Scotland being independent .
“ I know the border has all sorts of issues and debates around it but that ’ s not what this is about .
READ MORE : Boris will ‘ strike down ’ Scotland if it defies Brexit law “ This is about a public health crisis and how you best tackle it .
“ I think people who can ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worse , who refuse to see it because they would rather play the politics of the situation do need to take a step back and take a look at themselves.
” DO N'T MISS SNP SPLIT : Sturgeon admits she 's 'agonising ' over wrongs [ INTERVIEW ] Sturgeon ’ s ‘ biggest threat ’ to leadership is ‘ frustration ’ at promise [ INSIGHT ] Ian Blackford 's Queen confession amid SNP royal funding row exposed [ REVEALED ] The SNP leader ’ s comments could be seen as a direct jab @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continues to usurp authority in Westminster by breaking away from the UK-wide strategy to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic .
During the crisis , she been accused of playing party politics by announcing decisions in relation to a COBRA meeting ahead of Prime Minister Boris Johnson early on in the pandemic .
Ms Sturgeon also set up a Scottish volunteer scheme instead of a UK-wide scheme and has named the UK-funded NHS hospital after a Scottish nurse instead of NHS Nightingale Glasgow .
Meanwhile , the SNP leader stunned officials in Downing Street when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for weeks longer despite relaxed rules in England .

Nicola Sturgeon discusses quarantine for English visitors
The Scottish First Minister said she sometimes feels like the “voice of doom” as she discussed her “cautious” response to the coronavirus crisis. She said: “I do sometimes feel like I am the voice of doom, but I have a duty to be realistic.”
Trending
Ms Sturgeon also launched an attacked the UK Government over their “mixed messaging” during the coronavirus pandemic, which have not been “clear enough”. She said: “I have tried to impose self-discipline about not criticising other leaders elsewhere because we are all dealing with a difficult situation. “I am pretty sure everybody is trying to do their best but I think mixed messaging has been an issue from the UK government, both in not being clear enough about the decisions they are taking where they apply to England only, so there is the potential for confusion, but also just mixed messaging in saying: ‘Get back to work’, but also ‘the virus is still a threat’.”
Nicola Sturgeon appeared to take a swipe at Boris Johnson
Nicola Sturgeon said she had to be 'realistic' over the coronavirus
But, speaking to The Scotsman, Ms Sturgeon insisted “I don’t have an anti-English bone in my body” after she threatened to impose quarantine measures on visitors from England into Scotland. She added: “I am a passionate believer in Scotland being independent. “I know the border has all sorts of issues and debates around it but that’s not what this is about.
READ MORE: Boris will ‘strike down’ Scotland if it defies Brexit law
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Nicola Sturgeon has split from the UK-wide strategy to fight the coronavirus
Scotland returns to a new normal amid the coronavirus crisis
Scotland came out of lockdown a lot slower than England
The SNP leader’s comments could be seen as a direct jab at Prime Minister Mr Johnson as she continues to usurp authority in Westminster by breaking away from the UK-wide strategy to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic. During the crisis, she been accused of playing party politics by announcing decisions in relation to a COBRA meeting ahead of Prime Minister Boris Johnson early on in the pandemic.
UK coronavirus cases mapped
Ms Sturgeon also set up a Scottish volunteer scheme instead of a UK-wide scheme and has named the UK-funded NHS hospital after a Scottish nurse instead of NHS Nightingale Glasgow. Meanwhile, the SNP leader stunned officials in Downing Street when she decided to keep Scotland on lockdown for weeks longer despite relaxed rules in England.


thedailyexpress--2020-07-19--Merkel slammed for 'refusing to learn Brexit lesson' as Germany backs Brussels power-grab

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Angela Merkel and the Brussels leadership have failed to learn anything from Brexit , according to a prominent MEP Gerolf Annemans .
The right-wing Belgian MEP told the European Parliament that the German Chancellor will exploit her country 's position as president of the European Union to `` accelerate '' EU integration .
He urged EU leaders to pay attention to Brexit , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU '' are overwhelming against `` more Europe ' .
A tweet accompanying footage of his speech read : `` With Merkel 's presidency of the EU , European federalism will increase , no matter if the Brexit has taken place ! ''
Mr Annemans told MEPs : `` Contrary to what we might have expected , the EU did not keep it down after Brexit .
`` On the contrary , the accelerator pedal in favour of a unified European state has been engaged in many areas .
`` According to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ happened without taking into account the feeling alive within the population . ''
JUST IN : Angela Merkel begging EU leaders to compromise as bloc future in doubt

Brexit: Annemans says Merkel will push EU into debt
Angela Merkel and the Brussels leadership have failed to learn anything from Brexit, according to a prominent MEP Gerolf Annemans. The right-wing Belgian MEP told the European Parliament that the German Chancellor will exploit her country's position as president of the European Union to "accelerate" EU integration. He urged EU leaders to pay attention to Brexit, claiming that "the citizens of the EU" are overwhelming against "more Europe'.
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A tweet accompanying footage of his speech read: "With Merkel's presidency of the EU, European federalism will increase, no matter if the Brexit has taken place!" Mr Annemans told MEPs: "Contrary to what we might have expected, the EU did not keep it down after Brexit. "On the contrary, the accelerator pedal in favour of a unified European state has been engaged in many areas. "According to the habits of the European Union, the happened without taking into account the feeling alive within the population." JUST IN: Angela Merkel begging EU leaders to compromise as bloc future in doubt
Angela Merkel and the Brussels leadership have failed to learn anything from Brexit - MEP
The German Chancellor assumed the rotating presidency of the European Union
He continued: "Mrs Merkel, you are accessing the presidency of the European Union which will be an opportunity, by happy coincidence to end your career in style. "Be aware that among the citizens of the EU, there is a hostile view of a federalist union. "These citizens are all the more worried now that you are going to put your power and your forces, as well as those of your country, in the battle to make this happen. "They are also worried that you will push the union into debt.
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The MEP is a close ally of fellow eurosceptic Matteo Salvini
Macron and Merkel ‘walked out’ of EU Summit talks says expert
Emmanuel Macron has warned that failure to agree a deal would lead to a rise in anti-EU views


thedailyexpress--2020-07-20--EU divided: Macron unleashes fury at Austrian leader Kurz for 'walking out' of EU meeting

The French President laid into his Austrian counterpart during the fraught talks over the bloc ’ s future , which have now entered into their fourth day .
Mr Macron has led a vicious assault on the so-called “ Frugal Four ” , of whom Austria is a member , after the group of fiscally conservatives nations shot down the French leader ’ s hopes for a €750 billion war chest to send aid to pandemic-stricken economies .
During the diplomatic stand-off in Brussels , Mr Kurz told reporters : “ If someone thinks they can dictate here and say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that they go home , the summit may fail , but I hope that ’ s not the way it is.
” His outburst came after Mr Macron suggested he had ordered aides to ready France ’ s private jet to take him back to Paris .
The French President exacted revenge on Mr Kurz late on Sunday night as the marathon talks showed no signs of an agreement .
As the Austrian left the room to take a phone call , Mr Macron fumed : “ You see ?
He doesn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t listen to others , has a bad attitude .
He handles his press and basta.
” Mr Macron wants to defend his original plan that contained €500 billion in grants for the worst-hit countries from the coronavirus crisis .
The Netherlands , Austria , Denmark and Sweden fought hard to reduce the size of the package to €350 billion in grants with another €350 billion in loans in a total deal with €700 billion .
With the support of Finland , the nations also said their offer was conditional on rebates to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaders ’ offer represented a significant change from their pre-summit position that no grants should be distributed under the fund .
Mr Macron compared their stance to David Cameron 's refusal to hand over vast sums of cash to Brussels at previous budget summits .
France , Germany and Spain insisted grants should be ring fenced at no less than €400 billion .
In a bid to broker a compromise deal , European Council President Charles Michel this morning floated a new figure for €390 billion to be handed out to the worst-hit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and ordered leaders to reconvene later this afternoon .
Diplomats praised the new figures and said the fresh offer could herald a breakthrough in the marathon talks .
MUST READ : End of the EU ?
Coronavirus rescue package reveals deep 'divisions' Leaving the summit , Mr Kurz , who supports a smaller fund , said he was “ very happy ” after “ tough negotiations ” .
If a deal is struck on the size of the package , EU leaders ’ focus will shift to the thorny issue of how to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Capitals will also need to decide whether to tie in cash handouts to respect the rule of law , much to the disgust of Hungary and Poland .
Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban threatened to veto the entire package if funding is linked to respect for the rule of law .
Budapest insisted potential sanctions to suspend any payments would need the unanimous support of all governments , handing him an effective veto .
On Sunday , Mr Orban accused Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte of hating him and Hungary .

EU: 'Diplomacy is slipping' at summit claims expert
The French President laid into his Austrian counterpart during the fraught talks over the bloc’s future, which have now entered into their fourth day. Mr Macron has led a vicious assault on the so-called “Frugal Four”, of whom Austria is a member, after the group of fiscally conservatives nations shot down the French leader’s hopes for a €750 billion war chest to send aid to pandemic-stricken economies. During the diplomatic stand-off in Brussels, Mr Kurz told reporters: “If someone thinks they can dictate here and say ‘this is it’, or that they go home, the summit may fail, but I hope that’s not the way it is.”
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His outburst came after Mr Macron suggested he had ordered aides to ready France’s private jet to take him back to Paris. The French President exacted revenge on Mr Kurz late on Sunday night as the marathon talks showed no signs of an agreement. As the Austrian left the room to take a phone call, Mr Macron fumed: “You see? He doesn’t care. “He doesn’t listen to others, has a bad attitude. He handles his press and basta.”
Emmanuel Macron and Sebastian Kurz have clashed repeatedly during EU talks over the bloc's future
French President Emmanuel Macron
Mr Macron wants to defend his original plan that contained €500 billion in grants for the worst-hit countries from the coronavirus crisis. The Netherlands, Austria, Denmark and Sweden fought hard to reduce the size of the package to €350 billion in grants with another €350 billion in loans in a total deal with €700 billion. With the support of Finland, the nations also said their offer was conditional on rebates to their EU budget contributions. The frugal leaders’ offer represented a significant change from their pre-summit position that no grants should be distributed under the fund. Mr Macron compared their stance to David Cameron's refusal to hand over vast sums of cash to Brussels at previous budget summits.
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Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz
France, Germany and Spain insisted grants should be ring fenced at no less than €400 billion. In a bid to broker a compromise deal, European Council President Charles Michel this morning floated a new figure for €390 billion to be handed out to the worst-hit countries. He eventually called talks off and ordered leaders to reconvene later this afternoon. Diplomats praised the new figures and said the fresh offer could herald a breakthrough in the marathon talks. MUST READ: End of the EU? Coronavirus rescue package reveals deep 'divisions'
Sebastian Kurz is a member of a group of frugal EU leaders
Leaving the summit, Mr Kurz, who supports a smaller fund, said he was “very happy” after “tough negotiations”. If a deal is struck on the size of the package, EU leaders’ focus will shift to the thorny issue of how to govern the distribution of recovery funds. Capitals will also need to decide whether to tie in cash handouts to respect the rule of law, much to the disgust of Hungary and Poland. Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban threatened to veto the entire package if funding is linked to respect for the rule of law. Budapest insisted potential sanctions to suspend any payments would need the unanimous support of all governments, handing him an effective veto. On Sunday, Mr Orban accused Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte of hating him and Hungary. DON'T MISS
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thedailyexpress--2020-07-20--Brexit talks on brink of collapse as stubborn EU members demand the IMPOSSIBLE on fishing

The UK and EU are resuming talks on a post-Brexit trade deal in London today as the two sides desperately try to thrash out an agreement and overcome a number of hurdles .
Negotiations began in March but following several rounds of talks , both sides have lamented the lack of progress and significant differences that still exist .
This means Britain 's future relationship with the bloc remains undecided - more than four years after the UK voted to leave the EU in a historic referendum .
Now allies of Boris Johnson say he believes Brexit talks could completely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU member states take an increasingly tough stance against British demands .
Those close to the Prime Minister have warned he is prepared for leaders of the EU27 pulling out next month because of what one source described to The Times as a “ chasm ” between the sides .
There are ongoing disagreements on a number of issues , particularly around fishing and LPF rules , which the EU says are needed to prevent unfair competition .
A Downing Street source told The Times : “ Michel Barnier is negotiating in good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an EU27 who still think unachievable outcomes on fish and LPF are possible .
`` We have to deal with reality that the EU27 may tell him at the end of the intensive process that there ’ s no point in negotiating on this basis .
`` That ’ s why we must be ready for the prospect of talks ending , hence readiness preparations .
`` We are relaxed about having the same trade terms as Australia.
” The UK officially left the bloc on January 31 , with trade talks beginning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Boris Johnson 's chief negotiator David Frost and Brussels counterpart Mr Barnier .
READ MORE : Brexit LIVE : Dominic Cummings sends panic through EU with no deal plot Face-to-face talks were put on hold due to the coronavirus crisis sweeping through the continent , but resumed last month in Brussels , followed by further meetings in London at 10 Downing Street earlier this month .
But both sides have lamented the lack of progress made in negotiations to this point , continuing to insist `` significant differences '' remain between them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attacked each other over demands made in a future trade deal , with elements such as fisheries , a level playing field and access from the City of London to EU financial markets acting as major stumbling blocks .
Mr Johnson wants a deal completed over the coming weeks but Angela Merkel said talks could stretch into the autumn and has warned EU nations to prepare for a possible no deal scenario .
DO N'T MISS Why Brexit really was anything but a Russian revolution [ ANALYSIS ] EU ’ s ‘ take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ abandoned when in need [ COMMENT ] Iain Dale outlines paradox facing Scottish voters on Brexit [ OPINION ] The German Chancellor has also issued several warnings to EU member states to prepare for a no deal Brexit as progress stalls .
Last month , Ms Merkel lashed out at Mr Johnson 's Brexit demands and told him he has to `` live with the consequences '' , as Germany continued to harden its stance in negotiations .
She said the UK must accept it chose to have a more distant relationship with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's Brexit deal and must now understand the consequences .
Appearing to harden her approach on a potential compromise , Ms Merkel said : `` We need to let go of the idea that it is for us to define what Britain should want .
`` That is for Britain to define – and we , the EU27 , will respond appropriately . ''

Brexit: EU has ‘exploited’ UK on fisheries says Emily Hewertson
The UK and EU are resuming talks on a post-Brexit trade deal in London today as the two sides desperately try to thrash out an agreement and overcome a number of hurdles. Negotiations began in March but following several rounds of talks, both sides have lamented the lack of progress and significant differences that still exist. This means Britain's future relationship with the bloc remains undecided - more than four years after the UK voted to leave the EU in a historic referendum.
Trending
Now allies of Boris Johnson say he believes Brexit talks could completely collapse over the next few weeks as EU member states take an increasingly tough stance against British demands. Those close to the Prime Minister have warned he is prepared for leaders of the EU27 pulling out next month because of what one source described to The Times as a “chasm” between the sides. There are ongoing disagreements on a number of issues, particularly around fishing and LPF rules, which the EU says are needed to prevent unfair competition. A Downing Street source told The Times: “Michel Barnier is negotiating in good faith but he has to deal with an EU27 who still think unachievable outcomes on fish and LPF are possible.
Brexit news: EU member states are digging their heels in on fishing and the level playing field
Brexit news: Boris Jonhson wantds a trade deal signed over the coming weeks
"We have to deal with reality that the EU27 may tell him at the end of the intensive process that there’s no point in negotiating on this basis. "That’s why we must be ready for the prospect of talks ending, hence readiness preparations. "We are relaxed about having the same trade terms as Australia.” The UK officially left the bloc on January 31, with trade talks beginning in Brussels two months later, led by Boris Johnson's chief negotiator David Frost and Brussels counterpart Mr Barnier. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: Dominic Cummings sends panic through EU with no deal plot
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Brexit news: Michel Barnier has been left frustrated by a lack of progress in trade talks
Face-to-face talks were put on hold due to the coronavirus crisis sweeping through the continent, but resumed last month in Brussels, followed by further meetings in London at 10 Downing Street earlier this month. But both sides have lamented the lack of progress made in negotiations to this point, continuing to insist "significant differences" remain between them. The UK and EU teams have attacked each other over demands made in a future trade deal, with elements such as fisheries, a level playing field and access from the City of London to EU financial markets acting as major stumbling blocks. Mr Johnson wants a deal completed over the coming weeks but Angela Merkel said talks could stretch into the autumn and has warned EU nations to prepare for a possible no deal scenario. DON'T MISS
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Brexit news: Angela Merkel has warned EU member states to prepare for a no deal outcome
Brexit news: The UK and EU began talks on a trade deal in March
The German Chancellor has also issued several warnings to EU member states to prepare for a no deal Brexit as progress stalls. Last month, Ms Merkel lashed out at Mr Johnson's Brexit demands and told him he has to "live with the consequences", as Germany continued to harden its stance in negotiations. She said the UK must accept it chose to have a more distant relationship with the EU when it ditched Theresa May's Brexit deal and must now understand the consequences. Appearing to harden her approach on a potential compromise, Ms Merkel said: "We need to let go of the idea that it is for us to define what Britain should want. "That is for Britain to define – and we, the EU27, will respond appropriately."
Brexit news: The transition period ends on December 31, 2020