thedailyexpress--2020-07-22--Boris told NOT to hold Brexit vote inquiry after Russia report -'Waste of time and money!'

Yesterday a report into alleged Russian influence in the UK was published , and claimed the Government failed to establish the extent of Russian effort to interfere in the UK political process four years ago .
Some commentators have called for Boris Johnson to investigate whether Russia did interfere in the EU referendum , but the Government has largely dismissed the claims .
In response , Express.co.uk asked its readers whether they thought the Government should launch an inquiry into the matter .
The poll , carried out from 9am-9pm July 22 , asked : `` After criticism of Russia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into meddling in 2016 referendum ? ''
The vast majority of the 3,954 respondents disagreed that an inquiry should be launched , with 88 percent ( 3,440 people ) voting `` no '' .
Twelve percent ( 496 people ) said `` yes '' , while less than one percent ( 18 people ) opted for `` do n't know '' .
Readers took to the comments to justify their views , with many stating an investigation would be a waste of time .
One person said : `` Just more remain tactics @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no inquiry needed , they will find nothing and all it will do is cost taxpayers more wasted money .
`` We voted to leave without any help from Russia , China , Iran , North Korea or anyone else .
`` We left because it is rotten to the core . ''
JUST IN : 'No evidence ! '
Brexiteer slaps down Remainer in clash over Russia row One person said : `` I put my cross on a piece of paper , how did Russia interfere with that ?
?
?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ interference only a suspicion . ''
Other readers called for the Prime Minister to launch an inquiry into EU meddling .

PMQs: Johnson slams ‘Islington Remainers’ over Russia Report
Yesterday a report into alleged Russian influence in the UK was published, and claimed the Government failed to establish the extent of Russian effort to interfere in the UK political process four years ago. Some commentators have called for Boris Johnson to investigate whether Russia did interfere in the EU referendum, but the Government has largely dismissed the claims.
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In response, Express.co.uk asked its readers whether they thought the Government should launch an inquiry into the matter. The poll, carried out from 9am-9pm July 22, asked: "After criticism of Russia report, should Boris hold separate investigation into meddling in 2016 referendum?" The vast majority of the 3,954 respondents disagreed that an inquiry should be launched, with 88 percent (3,440 people) voting "no". Twelve percent (496 people) said "yes", while less than one percent (18 people) opted for "don't know".
Boris has been urged against launching an inquiry into Russian interference in the Brexit vote
The vast majority of readers were against holding an inquiry
Readers took to the comments to justify their views, with many stating an investigation would be a waste of time. One person said: "Just more remain tactics in order to delay the inevitable, no inquiry needed, they will find nothing and all it will do is cost taxpayers more wasted money. "We voted to leave without any help from Russia, China, Iran, North Korea or anyone else. "We left because it is rotten to the core." JUST IN: 'No evidence!' Brexiteer slaps down Remainer in clash over Russia row
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The Brexit referendum took place in June 2016
Anti-Brexit activist Steve Bray demonstrates outside the Houses of Parliament on Wednesday
Boris Johnson campaigned to leave the European Union
One person said: "I put my cross on a piece of paper, how did Russia interfere with that???? "They have no evidence of interference only a suspicion." Other readers called for the Prime Minister to launch an inquiry into EU meddling.
EU referendum result


thedailyexpress--2020-07-22--UK foreign aid budget slashed by £2.9BILLION by Dominic Raab after major review launched

The cut to the foreign aid budget comes in response to the coronavirus pandemic , as the UK 's economy is expected to contract .
Despite the revision to the budget , the Government will retain its commitment to spending at least 0.7 percent of Gross National Income ( GNI ) on international aid .
At present , the UK is the only G7 country to meet the spending target which was set as a goal by the United Nations in the 1970s .
The announcement of the cut comes after the Government committed last month to merging the Department @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Speaking in the House of Commons at the time , the Prime Minister said merging the two departments would allow the UK to focus on giving aid in line with the country 's international interests .
Mr Raab has confirmed that along with the cut in spending , later this year the Government will launch a review to `` look at how our aid budget can be used most effectively in our national interest '' .
Mr Raab said : `` The coming months will doubtless bring with them a number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to update you on the Government ’ s plans on how we will ensure we continue to meet our 0.7 percent Gross National Income ( GNI ) spending commitment for Official Development Assistance ( ODA ) .
`` Given the likely decrease in the size of the economy this year , the Prime Minister asked me to identify the changes needed to ensure we meet , but do not exceed the 0.7 percent commitment .
`` As this commitment is based on our GNI , when the economy shrinks , our ODA spend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said he had met with civil servants and the Development Secretary to review the current budget .
He said : `` This has been a thorough process , and we have been able to ensure that the money we will still spend in 2020 remains prioritised on poverty reduction for the ‘ bottom billion ’ , as well as tackling climate change and reversing biodiversity loss , championing girls education , UK leadership in the global response to COVID-19 , and campaigning on issues such as media freedom and freedom of religious belief @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a global force for good . ''
JUST IN : Boris erupts at Starmer over 'Remainers ' blaming Russia for Brexit Mr Raab said they had identified £2.9billion worth of reductions , which includes `` underspends , delaying activity and stopping some spending '' .
He added : `` The package I have agreed with the Prime Minister maintains our flexibility and enables the Government to manage our ODA spend against an uncertain 0.7 percent position .
`` It will see some reductions made now , with arrangements in place to tailor spending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ start to gain a clearer economic picture .
`` I would be happy to speak to you to provide further details if helpful . ''
But the news has raised questions from International Development Committee Chair Sarah Champion .
The Labour MP said : “ The announcement today raises more questions than it answers .
`` The letter speaks of delaying activity and stopping some spending – what is the timescale on this ?
`` If it is with immediate effect , do the projects know or will they find out via the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ merger ?
Is there an overarching strategy in place ?

Boris Johnson clashes with Keir Starmer on foreign aid statement
The cut to the foreign aid budget comes in response to the coronavirus pandemic, as the UK's economy is expected to contract. Despite the revision to the budget, the Government will retain its commitment to spending at least 0.7 percent of Gross National Income (GNI) on international aid. At present, the UK is the only G7 country to meet the spending target which was set as a goal by the United Nations in the 1970s.
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The announcement of the cut comes after the Government committed last month to merging the Department for International Development with the Foreign Office. Speaking in the House of Commons at the time, the Prime Minister said merging the two departments would allow the UK to focus on giving aid in line with the country's international interests. Mr Raab has confirmed that along with the cut in spending, later this year the Government will launch a review to "look at how our aid budget can be used most effectively in our national interest". Mr Raab said: "The coming months will doubtless bring with them a number of financial challenges, so I am writing to update you on the Government’s plans on how we will ensure we continue to meet our 0.7 percent Gross National Income (GNI) spending commitment for Official Development Assistance (ODA).
The UK foreign aid budget has been slashed by Dominic Raab
The foreign aid budget has been cut as the UK's economy is expected to shrink this year
"Given the likely decrease in the size of the economy this year, the Prime Minister asked me to identify the changes needed to ensure we meet, but do not exceed the 0.7 percent commitment. "As this commitment is based on our GNI, when the economy shrinks, our ODA spend also reduces." The Foreign Secretary said he had met with civil servants and the Development Secretary to review the current budget. He said: "This has been a thorough process, and we have been able to ensure that the money we will still spend in 2020 remains prioritised on poverty reduction for the ‘bottom billion’, as well as tackling climate change and reversing biodiversity loss, championing girls education, UK leadership in the global response to COVID-19, and campaigning on issues such as media freedom and freedom of religious belief, thereby ensuring that the UK is a global force for good." JUST IN: Boris erupts at Starmer over 'Remainers' blaming Russia for Brexit
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Dominic Raab has announced the foreign aid budget will be slashed by £2.9bn
Mr Raab said they had identified £2.9billion worth of reductions, which includes "underspends, delaying activity and stopping some spending". He added: "The package I have agreed with the Prime Minister maintains our flexibility and enables the Government to manage our ODA spend against an uncertain 0.7 percent position. "It will see some reductions made now, with arrangements in place to tailor spending further during the remaining months as we start to gain a clearer economic picture. "I would be happy to speak to you to provide further details if helpful."
International Development Committee Chair Sarah Champion has criticised the move
But the news has raised questions from International Development Committee Chair Sarah Champion. The Labour MP said: “The announcement today raises more questions than it answers. "The letter speaks of delaying activity and stopping some spending – what is the timescale on this? "If it is with immediate effect, do the projects know or will they find out via the media as DFID staff did about the merger? Is there an overarching strategy in place?
Areas in the UK where coronavirus cases are rising


thedailyexpress--2020-07-22--Sturgeon under pressure as she faces demands to condemn Salmond's Russia-backed TV show

Mr Salmond began the show in November 2017 , five months after he lost his Gordon MP Seat at Westminster .
The former SNP leader hosts various political and public figures on the show which airs every Thursday on RT ’ s UK channel .
The demand for her to speak out comes a day after the release of the Intelligence and Security Committee 's ( ISC ) report on Russian meddling in UK democratic processes .
The report said RT , formerly known as Russia Today , put out `` serious distortions '' along with fellow “ state-owned broadcaster @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russia spreads “ disinformation ” and runs “ ‘ influence campaigns ” , including “ use of state-owned traditional media ” .
Alongside this , it also said there is `` credible open source commentary '' suggesting Russia used influence campaigns during the Scottish independence referendum campaign in 2014 .
Speaking yesterday , SNP MP and ISC member Stewart Hosie said another Westminster committee had previously recommended the UK Government look into interference concerning the 2014 vote but stressed that Whitehall had ignored the calls .
However , today a Labour Party spokesman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Salmond 's appearances on the Kremlin-backed channel .
He said : `` We completely condemn it and we advise the First Minister Nicola Sturgeon to do the same .
She should make a public statement condemning it . ''
`` Keir would certainly say it is the wrong thing to do . ''
READ MORE : Scotland 's no deal PANIC : Anti-Brexit Scots campaign launched '' As Keir said , no member of the frontbench has been on Russia Today since Keir was put in charge and it is certainly not anything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MP and former Scottish Secretary David Mundell backed Mr Starmer ’ s calls , and said : `` It is now abundantly clear that the RT network , controlled by the Russian state , is used to disrupt and destabilise other countries . ''
Alex Cole-Hamilton , Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP for Edinburgh Western , added : “ Alex Salmond needs to accept that he has been promoting a TV channel that has a damaging agenda for western democracy .
“ He should pull out now because he is insulting our country ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ post.
” DO N'T MISS : Sturgeon under pressure over Spain quarantine U-turn [ REVEAL ] SNP 's Ian Blackford sees independence plans dismantled [ INSIGHT ] Russia 's interference in our democracy is shameful , says TIM NEWARK [ OPINION ] Nicola Sturgeon had previously voiced her uncertainty about Mr Salmond 's choice of channel after announcing the show in 2017 that `` the choice of channel would not have been my choice '' .
Speaking at the time , she said : `` Of course , Alex is not currently an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as he wishes , but had I been asked , I would have advised against RT and suggested he seek a different channel to air what I am sure will be an entertaining show .
`` Neither myself nor the SNP will shy away from criticising Russian policy when we believe it is merited . ''
Today , an SNP Spokesperson told Express.co.uk : “ The First Minister stood up at a press conference literally the day after the Alex Salmond show was announced – three years ago – and made her views @ @

Jon Snow GRILLS Alex Salmond over RT programme
Mr Salmond began the show in November 2017, five months after he lost his Gordon MP Seat at Westminster. The former SNP leader hosts various political and public figures on the show which airs every Thursday on RT’s UK channel.
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The demand for her to speak out comes a day after the release of the Intelligence and Security Committee's (ISC) report on Russian meddling in UK democratic processes. The report said RT, formerly known as Russia Today, put out "serious distortions" along with fellow “state-owned broadcaster Sputnik”. The report claims that Russia spreads “disinformation” and runs “‘influence campaigns”, including “use of state-owned traditional media”. Alongside this, it also said there is "credible open source commentary" suggesting Russia used influence campaigns during the Scottish independence referendum campaign in 2014.
Sir Keir Starmer has urged Nicola Sturgeon to speak out
The majority of people voted No in the 2014 indy vote
Speaking yesterday, SNP MP and ISC member Stewart Hosie said another Westminster committee had previously recommended the UK Government look into interference concerning the 2014 vote but stressed that Whitehall had ignored the calls. However, today a Labour Party spokesman said Sir Keir "condemned" Mr Salmond's appearances on the Kremlin-backed channel. He said: "We completely condemn it and we advise the First Minister Nicola Sturgeon to do the same. She should make a public statement condemning it." "Keir would certainly say it is the wrong thing to do." READ MORE: Scotland's no deal PANIC: Anti-Brexit Scots campaign launched
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Nicola Sturgeon has been urged to speak out against her former boss
"As Keir said, no member of the frontbench has been on Russia Today since Keir was put in charge and it is certainly not anything we would endorse." Scottish Tory MP and former Scottish Secretary David Mundell backed Mr Starmer’s calls, and said: "It is now abundantly clear that the RT network, controlled by the Russian state, is used to disrupt and destabilise other countries." Alex Cole-Hamilton, Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP for Edinburgh Western, added: “Alex Salmond needs to accept that he has been promoting a TV channel that has a damaging agenda for western democracy. “He should pull out now because he is insulting our country’s democratic values by staying in his post.” DON'T MISS:
Sturgeon under pressure over Spain quarantine U-turn [REVEAL]
SNP's Ian Blackford sees independence plans dismantled [INSIGHT]
Russia's interference in our democracy is shameful, says TIM NEWARK [OPINION]
Alex Salmond presents a weekly show on RT
Nicola Sturgeon had previously voiced her uncertainty about Mr Salmond's choice of channel after announcing the show in 2017 that "the choice of channel would not have been my choice". Speaking at the time, she said: "Of course, Alex is not currently an elected politician and is free to do as he wishes, but had I been asked, I would have advised against RT and suggested he seek a different channel to air what I am sure will be an entertaining show. "Neither myself nor the SNP will shy away from criticising Russian policy when we believe it is merited." Today, an SNP Spokesperson told Express.co.uk: “The First Minister stood up at a press conference literally the day after the Alex Salmond show was announced – three years ago – and made her views clear.
RT is owned by the Russian state


thedailyexpress--2020-07-22--BBC shamed: MP attacks ‘BIASED’ Beeb ahead of TV licence fee changes - 'People are FED UP'

Speaking in Parliament , the MP for East Antrim pressed the Media Minister John Whittingdale on the corporation 's conduct .
He claimed that many of his constituents were simply `` fed up '' with the BBC 's actions and were far from satisfied with the `` political bias '' displayed by the broadcaster .
On August 1 controversial BBC TV licence fee changes will come into effect .
Millions of pensioners over the age of 75 will have to pay an annual fee of £157.50 if they want to watch TV .
Only those on Pension Credit will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Tuesday , Mr Wilson said : “ Does the minister understand many of my constituents are fed up with the begging-bowl behaviour of the BBC , which seems to think its pocket has no bottom to it , and increasingly frustrated by the political bias and the reckless spending ? ''
He went on to question Mr Whittingdale on what action he would be prepared to take to protect elderly people from ending up in court over an unpaid TV licence fee .
He said : “ Will he undertake , first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can ’ t afford the compulsory levy will be criminalised as a result of non-payment , [ and ] in the longer run , will he look at how the BBC is funded so that we don ’ t have this compulsory tax on people who increasingly get their entertainment elsewhere anyway ?
” The minister answered by saying he sympathised with Mr Wilson , but stopped short of addressing his concern about criminalisation .
Mr Whittingdale directed Mr Wilson to the BBC and broadcasting watchdog Ofcom with his concerns .
Mr Whittingdale @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issues rather than reflect views of `` metropolitan bubbles '' .
The Minister of State for Digital , Culture , Media and Sport also cast doubt on the licence fee 's future .
Operational and editorial decisions are for the corporation but the Government believes it must represent all of Britain , Mr Whittingdale told the Commons .
DO N'T MISS BBC licence fee : MPs demand Lineker 's salary cut instead [ INSIGHT ] ‘ Defund the BBC ’ campaign SAVAGES Gary Lineker in billboard campaign [ ANALYSIS ] BBC licence fee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COMMENT ] He also expressed `` considerable sympathy '' with Tory calls to reform how the BBC is funded .
But he said a reliance on Freeview does not allow such change just yet .
He said the way people watch television now means questions about the `` sustainability '' of the licence fee will be under consideration during the 2027 charter review process .
Opposition MPs criticised the Government for putting the cost of free TV licences for over-75s on the BBC .
Answering an urgent question in the Commons , Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ broadcaster , the BBC has a duty to represent all of the nation , both its youngest and oldest citizens , no matter where they live and I am aware that many people have expressed concerns about cuts to regional programming as well as the BBC 's recent announcement of staffing reductions .
`` Let me be clear - both operational and editorial decisions are a matter for the BBC .

BBC licence fee: Wilson slams BBC over 'reckless spending'
Speaking in Parliament, the MP for East Antrim pressed the Media Minister John Whittingdale on the corporation's conduct. He claimed that many of his constituents were simply "fed up" with the BBC's actions and were far from satisfied with the "political bias" displayed by the broadcaster. On August 1 controversial BBC TV licence fee changes will come into effect.
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Millions of pensioners over the age of 75 will have to pay an annual fee of £157.50 if they want to watch TV. Only those on Pension Credit will be exempt under the new scheme. Speaking on Tuesday, Mr Wilson said: “Does the minister understand many of my constituents are fed up with the begging-bowl behaviour of the BBC, which seems to think its pocket has no bottom to it, and increasingly frustrated by the political bias and the reckless spending?"
The DUP's Sammy Wilson blasted the BBC for its 'begging bowl behaviour'
The DUP's Sammy Wilson said many of his constituents are 'fed up' of the BBC's behaviour
He went on to question Mr Whittingdale on what action he would be prepared to take to protect elderly people from ending up in court over an unpaid TV licence fee. He said: “Will he undertake, first, to ensure that no pensioner who can’t afford the compulsory levy will be criminalised as a result of non-payment, [and] in the longer run, will he look at how the BBC is funded so that we don’t have this compulsory tax on people who increasingly get their entertainment elsewhere anyway?” The minister answered by saying he sympathised with Mr Wilson, but stopped short of addressing his concern about criminalisation. READ MORE: Naga Munchetty: BBC Breakfast host defends BBC licence fee
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Media minister John Whittingdale
Mr Whittingdale directed Mr Wilson to the BBC and broadcasting watchdog Ofcom with his concerns. Mr Whittingdale said that the BBC must report local issues rather than reflect views of "metropolitan bubbles". The Minister of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport also cast doubt on the licence fee's future. Operational and editorial decisions are for the corporation but the Government believes it must represent all of Britain, Mr Whittingdale told the Commons. DON'T MISS
BBC licence fee: MPs demand Lineker's salary cut instead [INSIGHT]
‘Defund the BBC’ campaign SAVAGES Gary Lineker in billboard campaign [ANALYSIS]
BBC licence fee MUST be decriminalised as pensioners terrified [COMMENT]
BBC bosses have come under fire over the controversial move to scrap free TV licences for over 75s
He also expressed "considerable sympathy" with Tory calls to reform how the BBC is funded. But he said a reliance on Freeview does not allow such change just yet. He said the way people watch television now means questions about the "sustainability" of the licence fee will be under consideration during the 2027 charter review process.
European TV licence fees
Opposition MPs criticised the Government for putting the cost of free TV licences for over-75s on the BBC. Answering an urgent question in the Commons, Mr Whittingdale said: "As the national broadcaster, the BBC has a duty to represent all of the nation, both its youngest and oldest citizens, no matter where they live and I am aware that many people have expressed concerns about cuts to regional programming as well as the BBC's recent announcement of staffing reductions. "Let me be clear - both operational and editorial decisions are a matter for the BBC.
The BBC will roll out the changes on August 1


thedailyexpress--2020-07-22--EU exposed: Ursula von der Leyen spends thousands on private jets despite green pledge

The European Commission President splashed out tens of thousands of pounds on so-called “ air taxis ” in her first three months in the job .
Since becoming the EU ’ s most senior official , the former German defence minister has made the creation of a “ European green deal ” the main aim for her presidency .
She pledged to lead a significant overhaul of the economy in order to deliver carbon neutrality across the 27-member bloc by 2050 .
But Mrs von der Leyen has yet to reform her travel plans , opting to take private aircraft @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between December and February .
Private jets emit up to 20 times more carbon dioxide per passenger mile than a commercial flight and much more than this when compared with trains .
According to European Commission rules , “ air taxis ” should only be used when there are no suitable commercial travel alternatives .
Mrs von der Leyen has opted for private jets on several short-haul trips , including to hold Brexit talks with Boris Johnson .
She chartered a plane to and from London to give a lecture at the London @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minister at No10 .
The trip from Brussels to the capital takes just two hours on the Eurostar train , the mode of transport enjoyed by Britain ’ s Brexit negotiator David Frost and his EU counterpart Michel Barnier .
On another occasion , the German used a jet for a meeting at the former home of European federalist Jean Monnet on the outskirts of Paris .
Mrs von der Leyen used the trip to conduct talks with Council President Charles Michel and Parliament President David Sassoli on the “ future of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Paris could have had the bloc ’ s three chiefs at their destination in little more than 90 minutes .
Most of the trips where “ air taxis ” were used were for relatively short journeys , including to a summit in Berlin and the annual World Economic Forum in Davos , Switzerland .
They were also booked for a meeting of the Commission ’ s 27 top officials in the Croatian capital Zagreb , a trip to the Greek-Turkish border and a meeting with the African Union in Addis Ababa , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ private jets cost £6,750 “ per person ” for a five-night trip to Berlin , then to Davos and onto Tel Aviv , Israel , to visit a Holocaust memorial .
MUST READ : 'Desperate ' Macron braces for more 'rancorous ' divisions in EU The Commission declined to reveal the exact details of the trip , but it is understood at least ten officials were on board , meaning the cost of the jets was more than £60,000 .
Mrs von der Leyen also added £2,874 for hotels to her taxpayer-funded travel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ miscellaneous costs ” and £250 in “ daily allowances ” .
The German ’ s trip to the Ethiopian capital cost £4,000 per person , but publicly available information revealed it was for her College of 27 commissioners , meaning it could have potentially cost more than £100,000 .
DO N'T MISS EU defeat : Italy to have recovery fund backfire on bloc [ INSIGHT ] ITV GMB guest exposes key sign EU ‘ utterly useless ’ [ VIDEO ] EU member state ’ s critical Brussels probe exposed [ REPORT ]

EU: Ursula von der Leyen's Green Deal slammed by Donato
The European Commission President splashed out tens of thousands of pounds on so-called “air taxis” in her first three months in the job. Since becoming the EU’s most senior official, the former German defence minister has made the creation of a “European green deal” the main aim for her presidency. She pledged to lead a significant overhaul of the economy in order to deliver carbon neutrality across the 27-member bloc by 2050.
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But Mrs von der Leyen has yet to reform her travel plans, opting to take private aircraft to six of her 14 official trips between December and February. Private jets emit up to 20 times more carbon dioxide per passenger mile than a commercial flight and much more than this when compared with trains. According to European Commission rules, “air taxis” should only be used when there are no suitable commercial travel alternatives. Mrs von der Leyen has opted for private jets on several short-haul trips, including to hold Brexit talks with Boris Johnson.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has taken multiple private jet trips
Ursula von der Leyen on a trip to the Greek-Turkish border
She chartered a plane to and from London to give a lecture at the London School of Economics before meeting the Prime Minister at No10. The trip from Brussels to the capital takes just two hours on the Eurostar train, the mode of transport enjoyed by Britain’s Brexit negotiator David Frost and his EU counterpart Michel Barnier. On another occasion, the German used a jet for a meeting at the former home of European federalist Jean Monnet on the outskirts of Paris. Mrs von der Leyen used the trip to conduct talks with Council President Charles Michel and Parliament President David Sassoli on the “future of the EU”.
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Ursula von der Leyen often travels with other EU presidents
Frequent trains between Brussels and Paris could have had the bloc’s three chiefs at their destination in little more than 90 minutes. Most of the trips where “air taxis” were used were for relatively short journeys, including to a summit in Berlin and the annual World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. They were also booked for a meeting of the Commission’s 27 top officials in the Croatian capital Zagreb, a trip to the Greek-Turkish border and a meeting with the African Union in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. One of the most expensive private jets cost £6,750 “per person” for a five-night trip to Berlin, then to Davos and onto Tel Aviv, Israel, to visit a Holocaust memorial. MUST READ: 'Desperate' Macron braces for more 'rancorous' divisions in EU
Ursula von der Leyen at Downing Street with Boris Johnson
The Commission declined to reveal the exact details of the trip, but it is understood at least ten officials were on board, meaning the cost of the jets was more than £60,000. Mrs von der Leyen also added £2,874 for hotels to her taxpayer-funded travel bill. She also claimed £1,100 in “miscellaneous costs” and £250 in “daily allowances”. The German’s trip to the Ethiopian capital cost £4,000 per person, but publicly available information revealed it was for her College of 27 commissioners, meaning it could have potentially cost more than £100,000. DON'T MISS
EU defeat: Italy to have recovery fund backfire on bloc [INSIGHT]
ITV GMB guest exposes key sign EU ‘utterly useless’ [VIDEO]
EU member state’s critical Brussels probe exposed [REPORT]
Ursula von der Leyen: Fight against climate change can't wait


thedailyexpress--2020-07-22--Sadiq Khan blasted for 'mismanaging' TfL finances as Mayor pleads for another bailout

The Labour Mayor of London came under fire from Tory MP Greg Smith at a meeting of the Transport Committee on Wednesday .
Mr Khan 's request for financial help from the Government comes after the travel network received a £1.6billion injection .
Mr Smith questioned why Mr Khan felt TfL was entitled to a `` big bailout '' while networks in other parts of the country would not .
Mr Khan said more money would be needed from the Government to cover the day-to-day cost of running busses and Tubes during the pandemic .
Mr Khan told committee members @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a deal that gives us a long term sustainable plan going forward .
`` The deal I 'm looking for is how to help us through a period where fares will not be what they were . ''
Mr Khan complained about the `` unreasonable and unfair '' conditions attached to the Government 's previous bailout .
He told MPs : `` We are the only city in the Western world who does n't receive a subsidy for the day-to-day running of public transport from the central Government .
`` What I say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to attach conditions and strings that are not just unreasonable but unfair . ''
The Mayor said the number of people using Tubes in London had fallen drastically from the four million per day before the coronavirus lockdown was ordered .
READ MORE : Brexit talks on the brink of COLLAPSE as UK close to abandoning hope He said : `` The actual TfL debt has gone up from £9billion to £11billion , costs have gone up by 82 percent , 518 employers are on over £100,000 .
`` When that 's the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TfL gets the big bailout and other parts of the country do n't ? ''
Mr Khan answered : `` The point I make gently is it 's not London vs the rest of the country , it 's London and the rest of the country . ''
DO N'T MISS Sadiq Khan facing legal action after London Congestion Charge rise [ INSIGHT ] Sadiq Khan faces backlash over City Hall move amid terror fears [ ANALYSIS ] Sadiq Khan left red faced as TfL blames London tube cleaner for Banksy [ EXPLAINED @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a plan to `` reboot '' the capital 's housing sector , with fresh investment and a focus on technology , skills and career opportunities .
The construction skills crisis has worsened as a result of the coronavirus crisis , sparking calls for a multibillion-pound recovery package to boost housing and jobs , according to a report .
Mr Khan called for significant Government funding to support affordable homes and increased investment in precision manufactured and modular housing .
His comments followed a report by a Housing Delivery Taskforce .
It brought together @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and unions to consider the challenges posed by the pandemic and plan a route to recovery .
The mayor said : `` Building the social and other genuinely affordable homes Londoners need has always been my top priority , but the pandemic has challenged that ambition like nothing before .

Sadiq Khan admits London is 'not ready' for a local lockdown
The Labour Mayor of London came under fire from Tory MP Greg Smith at a meeting of the Transport Committee on Wednesday. Mr Khan's request for financial help from the Government comes after the travel network received a £1.6billion injection. Mr Smith questioned why Mr Khan felt TfL was entitled to a "big bailout" while networks in other parts of the country would not.
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Mr Khan said more money would be needed from the Government to cover the day-to-day cost of running busses and Tubes during the pandemic. Mr Khan told committee members: "The deal we want is a deal that gives us a long term sustainable plan going forward. "The deal I'm looking for is how to help us through a period where fares will not be what they were." Mr Khan complained about the "unreasonable and unfair" conditions attached to the Government's previous bailout.
Sadiq Khan has been accused of 'mismanaging' TfL finances as he appealed for a bailout
Labour Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan
He told MPs: "We are the only city in the Western world who doesn't receive a subsidy for the day-to-day running of public transport from the central Government. "What I say (to the Government) is not to attach conditions and strings that are not just unreasonable but unfair." The Mayor said the number of people using Tubes in London had fallen drastically from the four million per day before the coronavirus lockdown was ordered. However, Mr Smith accused Mr Khan of mismanaging TfL's finances. READ MORE: Brexit talks on the brink of COLLAPSE as UK close to abandoning hope
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Tube usage is down due to the pandemic
Sadiq Khan has asked the Government for another TfL bailout
On Wednesday Mr Khan set out a plan to "reboot" the capital's housing sector, with fresh investment and a focus on technology, skills and career opportunities.
The construction skills crisis has worsened as a result of the coronavirus crisis, sparking calls for a multibillion-pound recovery package to boost housing and jobs, according to a report. Mr Khan called for significant Government funding to support affordable homes and increased investment in precision manufactured and modular housing.
Sadiq Khan is 'playing political games' warns Shaun Bailey
His comments followed a report by a Housing Delivery Taskforce. It brought together London builders, councils, housing associations and unions to consider the challenges posed by the pandemic and plan a route to recovery. The mayor said: "Building the social and other genuinely affordable homes Londoners need has always been my top priority, but the pandemic has challenged that ambition like nothing before.
Tube passengers wearing masks


thedailyexpress--2020-07-23--Brexit latest: David Frost lashes out at Brussels as talks stall - statement in full

Brexit 's UK Chief Negotiator David Frost has delivered a statement which concludes round five of the negotiations with the EU .
The UK and EU have just five more months to negotiate the terms and conditions for the future relationship between the two entities .
But what did Mr Frost say about this latest stage of Brexit negotiations ?
The UK 's chief Brexit negotiator David Frost has cast doubt on any deal being met ahead of the December 31 deadline in a shocking new statement .
In the statement , Mr Frost said the UK and EU had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talks taking place in July .
He added `` considerable gaps remain in the most difficult areas '' following recent talks in London .
The EU 's chief negotiator Michel Barnier said Britain was not showing `` due level of engagement '' in Brexit talks and therefore underlined the unlikeliness of a trade deal being struck by the end of the transition period .
READ MORE : Portillo brilliantly exposes how Sturgeon 's Brexit claim will backfire • Brexit fury : Major deadline MISSED as Frost lashes out at EU Mr Frost reiterated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these difficult topics , but said Britain could still reach an agreement with the EU in September .
He said : `` We have just concluded our latest round of negotiations with the EU .
`` These were the first formal trade discussions to have taken place in London during these talks and were part of the intensified process agreed for July .
“ It is unfortunately clear that we will not reach in July the “ early understanding on the principles underlying any agreement ” that was set as an aim at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
`` At that meeting , the Prime Minister set out once again the fundamental principles which we have repeatedly made clear would need to underpin any future agreement and which are intrinsic to the UK ’ s future as an economically and politically independent country .
`` Any agreement needs to honour these principles in full .
The EU ’ s proposals so far , while a welcome response to the Prime Minister ’ s statement , do not do so , and therefore substantial areas of disagreement remain .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK on some of the issues most important to us , notably on the role of the Court of Justice , and we welcome this more pragmatic approach .
`` Similarly , we have heard the EU ’ s concerns about a complex Switzerland-style set of agreements and we are ready to consider simpler structures , provided satisfactory terms can be found for dispute settlement and governance . ''
DO N'T MISS Brexit latest : What is happening with Brexit ?
[ INSIGHT ] EU spending-spree : What will YOUR money pay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit latest : What does the EU ACTUALLY want from trade talks ?
[ ANALYSIS ] • EU proves why we were right to vote for Brexit , says LEO McKINSTRY Mr Frost added `` constructive '' conversations about important areas had been discussed , but large gaps in the `` most difficult '' areas remain in effect .
In particular , the most contentious areas include the terms and conditions regarding the level playing field and fishing .
The Brexit negotiator said : `` We have also had constructive discussions on trade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some of the sectoral agreements , notably on transport , social security cooperation , and participation in EU programmes .
`` We have also continued to deepen our understanding of each other ’ s constraints on law enforcement .
“ But considerable gaps remain in the most difficult areas , that is , the so-called level playing field and on fisheries .
`` We have always been clear that our principles in these areas are not simple negotiating positions but expressions of the reality that we will be a fully independent country at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ That is why we continue to look for a deal with , at its core , a free trade agreement similar to the one the EU already has with Canada – that is , an agreement based on existing precedents .
`` We remain unclear why this is so difficult for the EU , but we will continue to negotiate with this in mind .
“ Looking forward , there are large areas of convergence in many of the areas on which we are negotiating and ample precedents and texts on which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will keep working hard to bridge the gaps and find a way through .
“ When the next round of negotiations begins there will be not much more than four months left until the end of the transition period .
`` Although we will continue energetically to seek an agreement with the EU , we must face the possibility that one will not be reached , and we must therefore continue preparing for all possible scenarios for the end of the transition period at the end of this year .
`` Despite all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the work we have done in July , my assessment is that agreement can still be reached in September , and that we should continue to negotiate with this aim in mind .
`` Accordingly we look forward to welcoming the EU team back to London next week as planned for informal discussions and to the next negotiating Round beginning on August 17 . ''

Brexit: ‘Still significant gaps’ after trade talks says David Frost
Brexit's UK Chief Negotiator David Frost has delivered a statement which concludes round five of the negotiations with the EU. The UK and EU have just five more months to negotiate the terms and conditions for the future relationship between the two entities. But what did Mr Frost say about this latest stage of Brexit negotiations?
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The UK's chief Brexit negotiator David Frost has cast doubt on any deal being met ahead of the December 31 deadline in a shocking new statement. In the statement, Mr Frost said the UK and EU had not yet reached any agreement despite intensified talks taking place in July. He added "considerable gaps remain in the most difficult areas" following recent talks in London. The EU's chief negotiator Michel Barnier said Britain was not showing "due level of engagement" in Brexit talks and therefore underlined the unlikeliness of a trade deal being struck by the end of the transition period. READ MORE: Portillo brilliantly exposes how Sturgeon's Brexit claim will backfire
Brexit latest: What did David Frost say about the latest round of Brexit negotiations?
Brexit latest: The timeline from Brexit Day to the end of the transition year
READ MORE Brexit fury: Major deadline MISSED as Frost lashes out at EU Mr Frost reiterated this struggle to strike a deal on these difficult topics, but said Britain could still reach an agreement with the EU in September. He said: "We have just concluded our latest round of negotiations with the EU. "These were the first formal trade discussions to have taken place in London during these talks and were part of the intensified process agreed for July. “It is unfortunately clear that we will not reach in July the “early understanding on the principles underlying any agreement” that was set as an aim at the High Level Meeting on June 15."
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Brexit latest: The EU's Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier visiting 10 Downing Street
"At that meeting, the Prime Minister set out once again the fundamental principles which we have repeatedly made clear would need to underpin any future agreement and which are intrinsic to the UK’s future as an economically and politically independent country. "Any agreement needs to honour these principles in full. The EU’s proposals so far, while a welcome response to the Prime Minister’s statement, do not do so, and therefore substantial areas of disagreement remain. “Specifically, the EU has listened to the UK on some of the issues most important to us, notably on the role of the Court of Justice, and we welcome this more pragmatic approach. "Similarly, we have heard the EU’s concerns about a complex Switzerland-style set of agreements and we are ready to consider simpler structures, provided satisfactory terms can be found for dispute settlement and governance." DON'T MISS
Brexit latest: What is happening with Brexit? [INSIGHT]
EU spending-spree: What will YOUR money pay for in Europe? [EXPLAINER]
Brexit latest: What does the EU ACTUALLY want from trade talks? [ANALYSIS]
READ MORE EU proves why we were right to vote for Brexit, says LEO McKINSTRY Mr Frost added "constructive" conversations about important areas had been discussed, but large gaps in the "most difficult" areas remain in effect. In particular, the most contentious areas include the terms and conditions regarding the level playing field and fishing. The Brexit negotiator said: "We have also had constructive discussions on trade in goods and services, and in some of the sectoral agreements, notably on transport, social security cooperation, and participation in EU programmes. "We have also continued to deepen our understanding of each other’s constraints on law enforcement. “But considerable gaps remain in the most difficult areas, that is, the so-called level playing field and on fisheries.
Brexit latest: Mr Frost said the next round of negotiations will begin on August 17
"We have always been clear that our principles in these areas are not simple negotiating positions but expressions of the reality that we will be a fully independent country at the end of the transition period. “That is why we continue to look for a deal with, at its core, a free trade agreement similar to the one the EU already has with Canada – that is, an agreement based on existing precedents. "We remain unclear why this is so difficult for the EU, but we will continue to negotiate with this in mind. “Looking forward, there are large areas of convergence in many of the areas on which we are negotiating and ample precedents and texts on which we can base our work. We will keep working hard to bridge the gaps and find a way through.


thedailyexpress--2020-07-23--Brexit time bomb: EU warns just 84 DAYS to complete trade deal as talks suffer new blow

The latest round of intensified negotiations have been taking place in London this week that has seen Britain and the EU embarking on high-level contacts between Boris Johnson and EU chiefs .
Last month , the Prime Minister said there was “ no reason ” why an outline trade deal could not be struck by the end of this month .
But the UK 's chief negotiator David Frost has said `` considerable gaps remain in the most difficult areas '' following the latest round of talks in the capital .
He said in a statement : `` It is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in July the 'early understanding on the principles underlying any agreement ' that was set as an aim at the high-evel meeting on June 15 . ''
He added : `` We have also had constructive discussions on trade in goods and services , and in some of the sectoral agreements , notably on transport , social security cooperation , and participation in EU programmes .
We have also continued to deepen our understanding of each other 's constraints on law enforcement .
`` But considerable gaps remain in the most difficult areas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ playing field and on fisheries .
`` We have always been clear that our principles in these areas are not simple negotiating positions but expressions of the reality that we will be a fully independent country at the end of the transition period . ''
The EU 's chief negotiator Michel Barnier is expected to vent his anger and frustration at the lack of progress in Brexit at a press conference later this afternoon , while UK counterpart is also expected to make similar comments .
UK officials are continuing to play down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ struck in time , insisting any criticisms Mr Barnier makes should be taken with “ a large dose of salt ” .
But Brussels is evidently starting to lose patience , with one person briefed on the talks telling the Financial Times the EU wants any agreement to be approved at a summit of the bloc 's leaders on October 15 - in just 84 days ' time .
Cabinet office minister Michael Gove has also previously admitted the true deadline for a deal is in October , and UK officials now expect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ areas to take place in September .
The EU is becoming increasingly concerned over the logistics of getting a deal legally ratified before the end of the post-Brexit transition period on December 31 , a deadline Mr Johnson has refused to extend .
If a political agreement is struck , this would have to go through an intensive process of being converted into legally watertight text and translated into multiple European languages before it could be ratified .
But the person briefed on the talks warned if a deal is not ready to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ summit in 84 days time , the ratification process in the European Parliament would be out into question .
This would be because parliament would want time to study the text in detail before voting on it , which could happen as late as December .
The insider warned : “ The writing of the legal text has to start in September . ''
A further round of intensive talks is not scheduled to take place until the week beginning August 7 , but officials are reportedly not expecting any significant progress to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MISS EU proves why we were right to vote for Brexit , says LEO McKINSTRY [ OPINION ] EU 's 'dirty tricks ' : How bloc leaked meeting to 'damage Brexit ' [ ANALYSIS ] ‘ You asked for it !
’ Brexiteer Lord Lamont ’ s brutal swipe at Remainer [ VIDEO ] Mr Johnson and his UK negotiating team remain keen on a trade deal with the EU , but have warned they will not relent from their red lines and agree to one at any price .
The post-Brexit trade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brussels back in March and were conducted via videoconference calls over the following three months because of lockdown measures introduced from the coronavirus pandemic .
Face-to-face talks resumed earlier this month , with the likes of Mr Johnson having greater involvement in a desperate attempt to get an agreement over the line .
But both sides have traded several vicious blows , lamenting the lack of progress made and criticising each other 's negotiating stances on a number of key areas seen as make-or-break for any deal being agreed .
A number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ called level-playing field rules for business , access for EU fishermen in British waters , and dispute-settlement arrangements .

Brexit: UK-EU trade deal is ‘unlikely’ says Michel Barnier
The latest round of intensified Brexit negotiations have been taking place in London this week that has seen Britain and the European Union embarking on high-level contacts between Boris Johnson and EU chiefs. Last month, the Prime Minister said there was “no reason” why an outline trade deal could not be struck by the end of this month. But the UK's chief negotiator David Frost has said "considerable gaps remain in the most difficult areas" following the latest round of talks in the capital.
Trending
He said in a statement: "It is unfortunately clear that we will not reach in July the 'early understanding on the principles underlying any agreement' that was set as an aim at the high-evel meeting on June 15." He added: "We have also had constructive discussions on trade in goods and services, and in some of the sectoral agreements, notably on transport, social security cooperation, and participation in EU programmes. We have also continued to deepen our understanding of each other's constraints on law enforcement. "But considerable gaps remain in the most difficult areas, that is, the so-called level playing field and on fisheries. "We have always been clear that our principles in these areas are not simple negotiating positions but expressions of the reality that we will be a fully independent country at the end of the transition period." The EU's chief negotiator Michel Barnier is expected to vent his anger and frustration at the lack of progress in Brexit at a press conference later this afternoon, while UK counterpart is also expected to make similar comments.
Brexit news: The EU will warn the UK time is running out to agree a trade deal
Brexit news: Michel Barnier has been meeting UK officials in London for talks
UK officials are continuing to play down any fears a deal might not be struck in time, insisting any criticisms Mr Barnier makes should be taken with “a large dose of salt”. But Brussels is evidently starting to lose patience, with one person briefed on the talks telling the Financial Times the EU wants any agreement to be approved at a summit of the bloc's leaders on October 15 - in just 84 days' time. Cabinet office minister Michael Gove has also previously admitted the true deadline for a deal is in October, and UK officials now expect serious negotiations in a number of key areas to take place in September. The EU is becoming increasingly concerned over the logistics of getting a deal legally ratified before the end of the post-Brexit transition period on December 31, a deadline Mr Johnson has refused to extend. If a political agreement is struck, this would have to go through an intensive process of being converted into legally watertight text and translated into multiple European languages before it could be ratified. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: Boris Johnson refuses negotiation on fishing
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Brexit news: Michel Barnier has been left increasingly frustrated over the progress of trade talks
But the person briefed on the talks warned if a deal is not ready to be put before EU leaders at the summit in 84 days time, the ratification process in the European Parliament would be out into question. This would be because parliament would want time to study the text in detail before voting on it, which could happen as late as December. The insider warned: “The writing of the legal text has to start in September." A further round of intensive talks is not scheduled to take place until the week beginning August 7, but officials are reportedly not expecting any significant progress to be made before September. DON'T MISS
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Brexit news: Boris Johnson wants a deal with the EU but not at any price
Brexit news: The UK and EU began trade talks in March
Mr Johnson and his UK negotiating team remain keen on a trade deal with the EU, but have warned they will not relent from their red lines and agree to one at any price. The post-Brexit trade talks between the two sides began in Brussels back in March and were conducted via videoconference calls over the following three months because of lockdown measures introduced from the coronavirus pandemic. Face-to-face talks resumed earlier this month, with the likes of Mr Johnson having greater involvement in a desperate attempt to get an agreement over the line. But both sides have traded several vicious blows, lamenting the lack of progress made and criticising each other's negotiating stances on a number of key areas seen as make-or-break for any deal being agreed. A number of stumbling blocks remain, including the so called level-playing field rules for business, access for EU fishermen in British waters, and dispute-settlement arrangements.
Brexit news: The transition period ends on December 31, 2020


thedailyexpress--2020-07-23--Delusional Barnier blames UK for not respecting EU interests – despite UK having LEFT bloc

The Frenchman accused his UK counterpart David Frost of not showing a “ willingness to break the deadlock ” .
He also claimed Britain is still trying to obtain “ single market ” -like access to the EU .
Speaking after the talks , Mr Barnier said : `` The UK has not shown the same level of engagement and readiness to find solutions respecting the EU ’ s fundamental principles and interests . ''
He added : “ The UK did not show a willingness to break the deadlock.
” Mr Barnier insisted the UK ’ s position makes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before the post-Brexit transition period expires at the end of the year .
The Brussels bureaucrat urged Britain not to waste time with October the deadline to broker an agreement .
He said : “ This means simply that by its current refusal to commit to the condition of open and fair competition , and to a balanced agreement on fisheries , the UK makes a trade agreement , at this point , unlikely.
” With the potential for no deal increasing , Mr Barnier insisted neither he or Mr Frost had shown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fail .
`` There was never any question on David Frost nor I to abandon negotiations , far from it . ''
Mr Barnier told reporters .
`` We want to step up to intensify , we want to get closer , it does n't always work but we continue to bounce ideas off each other and clarify our work . ''
Mr Frost , the Prime Minister ’ s lead negotiator with Europe , said talks would drag on beyond the summer after the two sides failed to reach an agreement .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ insisting a deal would still be possible by September .
MUST READ : 'Italexit could DESTROY eurozone ' Experts ' stark warning to EU “ We have just concluded our latest round of negotiations with the EU .
These were the first formal trade discussions to have taken place in London during these talks and were part of the intensified process agreed for July , ” Mr Frost said .
“ It is unfortunately clear that we will not reach in July the ‘ early understanding on the principles underlying any agreement ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the High Level Meeting on June 15 .
“ At that meeting , the Prime Minister set out once again the fundamental principles which we have repeatedly made clear would need to underpin any future agreement and which are intrinsic to the UK ’ s future as an economically and politically independent country .
DO N'T MISS Brexit LIVE : Boris Johnson refuses negotiation on fishing [ UPDATE ] Boris Johnson orders army to plan for horror COVID-19 catastrophe [ INSIGHT ] Brexiteer Francois makes UK-EU trade talks prediction [ FORECAST ]

Brexit: UK hasn’t shown ‘engagement’ in trade talks says Barnier
The Frenchman accused his UK counterpart David Frost of not showing a “willingness to break the deadlock”. He also claimed Britain is still trying to obtain “single market”-like access to the EU. Speaking after the talks, Mr Barnier said: "The UK has not shown the same level of engagement and readiness to find solutions respecting the EU’s fundamental principles and interests."
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He added: “The UK did not show a willingness to break the deadlock.” Mr Barnier insisted the UK’s position makes it unlikely a deal will be struck before the post-Brexit transition period expires at the end of the year. The Brussels bureaucrat urged Britain not to waste time with October the deadline to broker an agreement.
EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier
Michel Barnier said the UK is making no deal more likely
He said: “This means simply that by its current refusal to commit to the condition of open and fair competition, and to a balanced agreement on fisheries, the UK makes a trade agreement, at this point, unlikely.” With the potential for no deal increasing, Mr Barnier insisted neither he or Mr Frost had shown any signs of wanting the talks to fail. "There was never any question on David Frost nor I to abandon negotiations, far from it." Mr Barnier told reporters.
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Michel Barbier will hold more meetings in London next week
"We want to step up to intensify, we want to get closer, it doesn't always work but we continue to bounce ideas off each other and clarify our work." Mr Frost, the Prime Minister’s lead negotiator with Europe, said talks would drag on beyond the summer after the two sides failed to reach an agreement. But he refused to be defeated, insisting a deal would still be possible by September. MUST READ: 'Italexit could DESTROY eurozone' Experts' stark warning to EU
David Frost is the UK's lead negotiator with Brussels
“We have just concluded our latest round of negotiations with the EU. These were the first formal trade discussions to have taken place in London during these talks and were part of the intensified process agreed for July,” Mr Frost said. “It is unfortunately clear that we will not reach in July the ‘early understanding on the principles underlying any agreement’ that was set as an aim at the High Level Meeting on June 15. “At that meeting, the Prime Minister set out once again the fundamental principles which we have repeatedly made clear would need to underpin any future agreement and which are intrinsic to the UK’s future as an economically and politically independent country. DON'T MISS
Brexit LIVE: Boris Johnson refuses negotiation on fishing [UPDATE]
Boris Johnson orders army to plan for horror COVID-19 catastrophe [INSIGHT]
Brexiteer Francois makes UK-EU trade talks prediction [FORECAST]
Brexit: UK fishing demands 'unacceptable' says Michel Barnier


thedailyexpress--2020-07-23--Brexit fury: Major deadline MISSED as Frost lashes out at EU - proposals NOT good enough

After a week of negotiations in London , David Frost admitted “ considerable gaps ” between Britain and the European Union remain .
He said the UK would continue negotiating with the bloc with the belief an agreement can be struck by September .
Mr Frost said : “ We have just concluded our latest round of negotiations with the EU .
These were the first formal trade discussions to have taken place in London during these talks and were part of the intensified process agreed for July .
“ It is unfortunately clear that we will not reach in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ underlying any agreement ' that was set as an aim at the High Level Meeting on June 15 .
`` At that meeting , the Prime Minister set out once again the fundamental principles which we have repeatedly made clear would need to underpin any future agreement and which are intrinsic to the UK ’ s future as an economically and politically independent country .
`` Any agreement needs to honour these principles in full .
The EU ’ s proposals so far , while a welcome response to the Prime Minister ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and therefore substantial areas of disagreement remain.
” Talks on fisheries stalled with both sides claiming there are fundamental differences between their positions .
And on the regulatory level-playing field , British negotiators were concerned their EU counterparts to engage with fresh proposals based on World Trade rules .
Mr Frost added : `` Considerable gaps remain in the most difficult areas , that is , the so-called level playing field and on fisheries .
“ We have always been clear that our principles in these areas are not simple negotiating positions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be a fully independent country at the end of the transition period .
“ That is why we continue to look for a deal with , at its core , a free trade agreement similar to the one the EU already has with Canada – that is , an agreement based on existing precedents .
“ We remain unclear why this is so difficult for the EU , but we will continue to negotiate with this in mind.
” MUST READ : Brexit fishing row : Boris demands near total ban on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talks , Michel Barnier accused the UK of not engaging on the most controversial areas of the trade deal – including fisheries and the level-playing field .
The Frenchman said : `` The UK has not shown the same level of engagement and readiness to find solutions respecting the EU ’ s fundamental principles and interests . ''
He added : “ The UK did not show a willingness to break the deadlock.
” DO N'T MISS Portillo brilliantly exposes how Sturgeon 's Brexit claim will backfire [ VIDEO ] SNP spent £20k @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exist [ REPORT ] German MEP celebrates Brexit as he lays into EU spending plans [ INSIGHT ]

Brexit: UK-EU trade deal is ‘unlikely’ says Michel Barnier
After a week of negotiations in London, David Frost admitted “considerable gaps” between Britain and the European Union remain. He said the UK would continue negotiating with the bloc with the belief an agreement can be struck by September. Mr Frost said: “We have just concluded our latest round of negotiations with the EU. These were the first formal trade discussions to have taken place in London during these talks and were part of the intensified process agreed for July.
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“It is unfortunately clear that we will not reach in July the 'early understanding on the principles underlying any agreement' that was set as an aim at the High Level Meeting on June 15. "At that meeting, the Prime Minister set out once again the fundamental principles which we have repeatedly made clear would need to underpin any future agreement and which are intrinsic to the UK’s future as an economically and politically independent country. "Any agreement needs to honour these principles in full. The EU’s proposals so far, while a welcome response to the Prime Minister’s statement, do not do so, and therefore substantial areas of disagreement remain.”
Brexit talks break up without an agreement
David Frost is the UK's chief negotiator with the EU
Talks on fisheries stalled with both sides claiming there are fundamental differences between their positions. And on the regulatory level-playing field, British negotiators were concerned their EU counterparts to engage with fresh proposals based on World Trade rules. Mr Frost added: "Considerable gaps remain in the most difficult areas, that is, the so-called level playing field and on fisheries.
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Michel Barnier and David Frost during a recent London meeting
“We have always been clear that our principles in these areas are not simple negotiating positions but expressions of the reality that we will be a fully independent country at the end of the transition period. “That is why we continue to look for a deal with, at its core, a free trade agreement similar to the one the EU already has with Canada – that is, an agreement based on existing precedents. “We remain unclear why this is so difficult for the EU, but we will continue to negotiate with this in mind.” MUST READ: Brexit fishing row: Boris demands near total ban on EU vessels in UK
Michel Barnier is the EU's chief Brexit negotiator
Brexit: ‘Still significant gaps’ after trade talks says David Frost


thedailyexpress--2020-07-23--Scottish Independence polls: Could Scotland QUIT the UK? Latest polls

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The indyref campaign in 2014 was a bitter and hugely divisive affair , with communities and families split on whether to break the centuries-old union .
The final vote seemed decisive at the time , with 55 percent voting against independence and 45 percent voting in favour .
But despite the last vote being fresh in collective political memory , renewed calls for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attention , after polls show the majority of Scots want a break from the union .
The Prime Minister has received nothing short of a frosty reception from the Scottish Government following his arrival in Edinburgh earlier today .
Nicola Sturgeon has argued that the Prime Minister 's visit strengthens the case for Scotland leaving the union , and unfortunately for the Prime Minister , the numbers back her up .
She tweeted this morning : `` I welcome the PM to Scotland today .
One of the key arguments for independence is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own decisions , rather than having our future decided by politicians we didn ’ t vote for , taking us down a path we haven ’ t chosen .
His presence highlights that . ''
Ian Blackford , SNP ’ s Westminster leader , also suggested Mr Johnson ’ s trip would backfire , telling the Today programme : `` The days of telling Scotland that we are either too wee , too poor or too stupid really are over.
” There is little doubt that tensions between the Scottish and English powers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exacerbated by Brexit and further fuelled recently by coronavirus .

The indyref campaign in 2014 was a bitter and hugely divisive affair, with communities and families split on whether to break the centuries-old union. The final vote seemed decisive at the time, with 55 percent voting against independence and 45 percent voting in favour. But despite the last vote being fresh in collective political memory, renewed calls for another pop at independence are garnering significant attention, after polls show the majority of Scots want a break from the union.
The Prime Minister has received nothing short of a frosty reception from the Scottish Government following his arrival in Scotland earlier this week.
Nicola Sturgeon has argued that the Prime Minister's visit strengthens the case for Scotland leaving the union, and unfortunately for the Prime Minister, the numbers back her up.
She tweeted this morning: "I welcome the PM to Scotland today. One of the key arguments for independence is the ability of Scotland to take our own decisions, rather than having our future decided by politicians we didn’t vote for, taking us down a path we haven’t chosen. His presence highlights that."
Ian Blackford, SNP’s Westminster leader, also suggested Mr Johnson’s trip would backfire, telling the Today programme: "The days of telling Scotland that we are either too wee, too poor or too stupid really are over.”
There is little doubt that tensions between the Scottish and English powers have grown considerably in recent years, exacerbated by Brexit and further fuelled recently by coronavirus.


thedailyexpress--2020-07-23--Boris Johnson COUP: Tory MPs plot to oust PM before next election - secret plan exposed

Tory MPs are understood to be looking to get rid of Prime Minister Boris Johnson before the next General Election in 2024 as they grow increasingly frustrated at his approach to the coronavirus crisis , which has left behind a crippled UK economy .
Critics have accused Mr Johnson of being “ obsessed ” with Brexit and therefore not well equipped to deal with coronavirus as he reaches his 12-month milestone on Friday .
One Tory MP told The Guardian : “ If the economic downturn and the fallout from an inquiry into the pandemic put the party into freefall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson may need to be replaced before the next election .
“ The party has no emotional attachment to Boris because he does not give us something to believe in , apart from as a vehicle for power .
“ So a year out , if the polls look bad , it could happen.
” One former Cabinet minister said : “ The hard facts are that Boris is a good-time prime minister .
Of Mr Johnson ’ s record on the COVID-19 crisis , another Tory MP added : “ I think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the government and the team in No 10 is obsessed - and obsessed isn ’ t too strong a word - with Brexit .
“ And they were caught completely unprepared for COVID because they didn ’ t put together a government that had anything other than Brexit in mind.
” Mr Johnson 's first year in office has seen Brexit , a baby and a brush with death from coronavirus .
When he became prime minister on July 24 2019 , his party was languishing in the polls and had not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ performances at the ballot box , securing just 9 percent of the vote in elections to the European Parliament .
DO N'T MISS Boris Johnson faces chaotic Scotland trip as protests planned [ INSIGHT ] Boris Johnson vows to keep the United Kingdom together [ COMMENT ] EU 's 'dirty tricks ' : How bloc leaked meeting to 'damage Brexit ' [ REVEALED ] But almost immediately the Tories ' poll share began to rise , from an average of 29 percent in the week he became PM to the mid-30s by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the start of the general election campaign .
After winning 45 percent of votes in the UK on election day , Mr Johnson then led his party to even dizzier heights in the polls , until the Tories found themselves averaging as much as 52 percent in the early weeks of the coronavirus crisis .
Then it all changed .
From mid-May the polls have tracked downwards , not anywhere close to the lows seen last summer , but enough for the Tories ' lead over Labour to drop to as little @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enjoyed a solid lead over his Labour rival Jeremy Corbyn , even when his own rating was negative .

Boris Johnson: I'm hopeful there will be a coronavirus vaccine
Tory MPs are understood to be looking to get rid of Prime Minister Boris Johnson before the next General Election in 2024 as they grow increasingly frustrated at his approach to the coronavirus crisis, which has left behind a crippled UK economy. Critics have accused Mr Johnson of being “obsessed” with Brexit and therefore not well equipped to deal with coronavirus as he reaches his 12-month milestone on Friday.
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One Tory MP told The Guardian: “If the economic downturn and the fallout from an inquiry into the pandemic put the party into freefall, some have even begun to think Johnson may need to be replaced before the next election. “The party has no emotional attachment to Boris because he does not give us something to believe in, apart from as a vehicle for power. “So a year out, if the polls look bad, it could happen.”
Boris Johnson is facing a Tory coup
Boris Johnson could be replaced by the next General Election
One former Cabinet minister said: “The hard facts are that Boris is a good-time prime minister. “His grip on detail is shocking.” Of Mr Johnson’s record on the COVID-19 crisis, another Tory MP added: “I think Boris has shown in the first year that the government and the team in No 10 is obsessed - and obsessed isn’t too strong a word - with Brexit. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: Boris Johnson refuses negotiation on fishing
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Tory MPs have become frustrated at Boris Johnson's dealing of the coronavirus
“And they were caught completely unprepared for COVID because they didn’t put together a government that had anything other than Brexit in mind.” Mr Johnson's first year in office has seen Brexit, a baby and a brush with death from coronavirus. When he became prime minister on July 24 2019, his party was languishing in the polls and had not long suffered one of its worst ever performances at the ballot box, securing just 9 percent of the vote in elections to the European Parliament. DON'T MISS
Boris Johnson faces chaotic Scotland trip as protests planned [INSIGHT]
Boris Johnson vows to keep the United Kingdom together [COMMENT]
EU's 'dirty tricks': How bloc leaked meeting to 'damage Brexit' [REVEALED]
Boris Johnson has been accused of being 'obsessed' with Brexit
Boris Johnson's first year in office has seen Brexit, a baby and a brush with death from coronavirus
But almost immediately the Tories' poll share began to rise, from an average of 29 percent in the week he became PM to the mid-30s by the autumn, before hitting the early 40s at the start of the general election campaign. After winning 45 percent of votes in the UK on election day, Mr Johnson then led his party to even dizzier heights in the polls, until the Tories found themselves averaging as much as 52 percent in the early weeks of the coronavirus crisis.
Boris Johnson on Brexit
Then it all changed. From mid-May the polls have tracked downwards, not anywhere close to the lows seen last summer, but enough for the Tories' lead over Labour to drop to as little as four points. Once Mr Johnson enjoyed a solid lead over his Labour rival Jeremy Corbyn, even when his own rating was negative.


thedailyexpress--2020-07-23--What a farce! Von der Leyen admits EU's £1.6 trillion deal SUBSTANDARD as row erupts

The European Commission President claimed she was forced to fight off attempts to member states to make even more ravaging cuts to her original proposal .
The German said the seven-year budget , worth €1.074 trillion , is a “ bitter pill to swallow ” after “ regrettable ” decisions were taken to slash spending plans .
“ There are regrettable and painful decisions on many programmes which have crucial European added-value , ” Mrs von der Leyen told the European Parliament .
She added : “ Yes we managed to avoid even further cuts as some member states , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to swallow .
“ And I know this house feels the same.
” During marathon summit talks , EU leaders were forced to agree the cut-price package in order to get the much-needed €750 billion pandemic recovery fund across the line .
The so-called `` Frugal four '' – Austria , Denmark , Sweden and the Netherlands – all pushed for the MFF to be shrunk before agreeing to hand out more than €390 billion as grants to pandemic-stricken regions and industries across the bloc .
But Mrs von der Leyen 's weak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by MEPs , who have demanded a more ambitious budget .
The EU executive had previously proposed a budget of around €1.3 trillion , which is equivalent to around 1.14 percent of its gross national income .
The Parliament was demanding the bloc ’ s spending to be increased to 1.3 percent of GNI .
The leader of the European People 's Party , the largest political bloc in the Parliament , Manfred Weber hinted the package was unacceptable .
`` Ursula , we for the moment are not ready to swallow the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ German MEP fumed .

Von der Leyen on ‘regrettable’ decisions made in EU budget
The European Commission President claimed she was forced to fight off attempts to member states to make even more ravaging cuts to her original proposal. The German said the seven-year budget, worth €1.074 trillion, is a “bitter pill to swallow” after “regrettable” decisions were taken to slash spending plans. “There are regrettable and painful decisions on many programmes which have crucial European added-value,” Mrs von der Leyen told the European Parliament.
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She added: “Yes we managed to avoid even further cuts as some member states, but this MFF is a difficult pill to swallow. “And I know this house feels the same.” During marathon summit talks, EU leaders were forced to agree the cut-price package in order to get the much-needed €750 billion pandemic recovery fund across the line.
Ursula von der Leyen addresses the EU Parliament in Brussels
The so-called "Frugal four" – Austria, Denmark, Sweden and the Netherlands – all pushed for the MFF to be shrunk before agreeing to hand out more than €390 billion as grants to pandemic-stricken regions and industries across the bloc. But Mrs von der Leyen's weak defence of her original proposals were slammed by MEPs, who have demanded a more ambitious budget. The EU executive had previously proposed a budget of around €1.3 trillion, which is equivalent to around 1.14 percent of its gross national income.
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German MEP Manfred Weber
The Parliament was demanding the bloc’s spending to be increased to 1.3 percent of GNI. The leader of the European People's Party, the largest political bloc in the Parliament, Manfred Weber hinted the package was unacceptable. "Ursula, we for the moment are not ready to swallow the pill you referred to," the German MEP fumed. MUST READ: Manfred Weber slams Ursula von der Leyen in furious EU clash
Green MEP Philippe Lamberts
Philippe Lamberts slams frugal five for using EU as ‘money pump’


thedailyexpress--2020-07-23--Corbyn could face legal action as panicked far-left supporters launch fund to pay costs

But panicked far-left supporters have now launched an online fundraising page in a desperate bid to raise money for Mr Corbyn 's legal costs should action be taken against him .
The GoFundMe page , organised by Carole Morgan , had already raised nearly £18,000 from close to 1,000 donors at the time of writing .
The fundraiser 's target is £20,000 .
The online fundraiser says : `` It is reported that John Ware a reporter for Panorama is taking legal action for libel against former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn .
`` The relentless attacks on Mr Corbyn , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ humility can not be allowed to continue and we have an opportunity here to offer him support in a practical way .
`` It will also let him know that his supporters have not forgotten him , nor have they gone away . ''
On Wednesday , the opposition apologised to a group of whistleblowers at the High Court who contributed to a BBC Panorama investigation - broadcast in July 2019 - into the party 's handling of anti-Semitism claims under the leadership of Mr Corbyn .
Seven former employees from Labour 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the programme , had sued the party after it issued a press release describing them as having `` personal and political axes to grind '' .
Labour said it would pay `` substantial damages '' and accepted press statements made against them last year were `` defamatory and false '' .
The party also apologised and agreed to pay damages to John Ware - the journalist who presented the Panorama investigation - after falsely accusing him of `` deliberate and malicious misrepresentations designed to mislead the public '' .
But an explosive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ High Court hearing and subsequent decision from Labour has seen Mr Ware and the whisleblowers threaten to take legal action against the former party leader .
Mr Corbyn said in a statement : `` The party 's decision to apologise today and make substantial payments to former staff who sued the party in relation to last year 's Panorama programme is a political decision , not a legal one .
`` Our legal advice was that the party had a strong defence , and the evidence in the leaked Labour report that is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ led by Martin Forde QC strengthened concerns about the role played by some of those who took part in the programme .
`` The decision to settle these claims in this way is disappointing , and risks giving credibility to misleading and inaccurate allegations about action taken to tackle anti-Semitism in the Labour Party in recent years .
`` To give our members the answers and justice they deserve , the inquiry led by Martin Forde must now fully address the evidence the internal report uncovered of racism , sexism , factionalism and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ campaign . ''
But when asked if action would be taken arising from Mr Corbyn 's statement , lawyer Mark Lewis , from Patron Law , who represented the Panorama whistleblowers and Mr Ware , said : `` I can confirm that I have been instructed to pursue cases . ''
DO N'T MISS How Starmer claimed ' a lot of people ' rather Corbyn was n't leader [ ANALYSIS ] BBC host dismantles MP 's claim Labour better at dealing with COVID [ VIDEO ] Labour MP blasted by radio host as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ INTERVIEW ] Len McCluskey , general secretary of Unite and Labour 's biggest donor , also lashed out at the action from the Labour Party .
He said : `` Today 's settlement is a misuse of Labour Party funds to settle a case it was advised we would win in court , '' he said .
Mr McCluskey added an internal report on Labour leaked earlier this year , which alleged anti-Jeremy Corbyn sentiment among Labour staff restricted efforts to tackle anti-Semitism - `` tells a very different story about what happened @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Wednesday evening , Mr Ware said : `` There have been a couple of statements - one from Mr McCluskey , and the other from Jeremy Corbyn - which seem to me to come dangerously close to suggesting , actually , what the Labour Party said about the whistleblowers and about me was true but for the fact that Keir Starmer decided to make a political settlement .

Labour: Panorama documentary explores the anti-Semitism issue
But panicked far-left supporters have now launched an online fundraising page in a desperate bid to raise money for Jeremy Corbyn's legal costs should action be taken against him. The GoFundMe page, organised by Carole Morgan, had already raised nearly £18,000 from close to 1,000 donors at the time of writing. The fundraiser's target is £20,000. The online fundraiser says: "It is reported that John Ware a reporter for Panorama is taking legal action for libel against former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn.
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"The relentless attacks on Mr Corbyn, a man of integrity, honesty and humility cannot be allowed to continue and we have an opportunity here to offer him support in a practical way. "It will also let him know that his supporters have not forgotten him, nor have they gone away." On Wednesday, the Labour Party apologised to a group of whistleblowers at the High Court who contributed to a BBC Panorama investigation - broadcast in July 2019 - into the party's handling of anti-Semitism claims under the leadership of Mr Corbyn. Seven former employees from Labour's governance and legal unit, who contributed to the programme, had sued the party after it issued a press release describing them as having "personal and political axes to grind".
Jeremy Corbyn is being threatened with legal action over his comments
A fundraising page has been set up to pay for Jeremy Corbyn's legal costs should he face action
Labour said it would pay "substantial damages" and accepted press statements made against them last year were "defamatory and false". The party also apologised and agreed to pay damages to John Ware - the journalist who presented the Panorama investigation - after falsely accusing him of "deliberate and malicious misrepresentations designed to mislead the public". But an explosive statement from Mr Corbyn following yesterday's High Court hearing and subsequent decision from Labour has seen Mr Ware and the whisleblowers threaten to take legal action against the former party leader. Mr Corbyn said in a statement: "The party's decision to apologise today and make substantial payments to former staff who sued the party in relation to last year's Panorama programme is a political decision, not a legal one. READ MORE: Keir Starmer insists Corbynism has ENDED amid Russia embarrassment
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Jeremy Corbyn made a statement following the decision from Labour to apologise and pay substantial costs
"Our legal advice was that the party had a strong defence, and the evidence in the leaked Labour report that is now the subject of an NEC inquiry led by Martin Forde QC strengthened concerns about the role played by some of those who took part in the programme. "The decision to settle these claims in this way is disappointing, and risks giving credibility to misleading and inaccurate allegations about action taken to tackle anti-Semitism in the Labour Party in recent years. "To give our members the answers and justice they deserve, the inquiry led by Martin Forde must now fully address the evidence the internal report uncovered of racism, sexism, factionalism and obstruction of Labour's 2017 general election campaign." But when asked if action would be taken arising from Mr Corbyn's statement, lawyer Mark Lewis, from Patron Law, who represented the Panorama whistleblowers and Mr Ware, said: "I can confirm that I have been instructed to pursue cases." DON'T MISS
How Starmer claimed 'a lot of people' rather Corbyn wasn't leader [ANALYSIS]
BBC host dismantles MP's claim Labour better at dealing with COVID [VIDEO]
Labour MP blasted by radio host as he fails to clarify party plan [INTERVIEW]
Len McCluskey also spoke out following the decision from Labour
Keir Starmer has vowed to erase any anti-Semitism in the Labour Party
Len McCluskey, general secretary of Unite and Labour's biggest donor, also lashed out at the action from the Labour Party. He said: "Today's settlement is a misuse of Labour Party funds to settle a case it was advised we would win in court," he said. Mr McCluskey added an internal report on Labour leaked earlier this year, which alleged anti-Jeremy Corbyn sentiment among Labour staff restricted efforts to tackle anti-Semitism - "tells a very different story about what happened". But speaking to Times Radio on Wednesday evening, Mr Ware said: "There have been a couple of statements - one from Mr McCluskey, and the other from Jeremy Corbyn - which seem to me to come dangerously close to suggesting, actually, what the Labour Party said about the whistleblowers and about me was true but for the fact that Keir Starmer decided to make a political settlement.
The main reason voters turned against the Labour Party
"In other words a settlement based on politics rather than the strength of our case. "I am advised that is defamatory, I am advised that I could continue with this legal action against Mr Corbyn personally. "I am thinking about that. I don't particularly wish to continue litigating against members of the Labour Party but there's a principle at stake here. "I'll think about that carefully."
Labour Party deputy leader Angela Rayner


thedailyexpress--2020-07-23--Labour row explodes: Biggest donor McCluskey hits out at anti-Semitism damages

His incendiary remarks came after Labour said it will pay a `` substantial ” sum to seven whistleblowers who contributed to a TV expose of its handling of anti-Semitism .
The move immediately triggered a clash between party leader Sir Keir Starmer and his predecessor with a defiant Mr Corbyn describing the decision as “ disappointing ” .
The move by Sir Keir Starmer 's party , which also apologised to the seven , is part of a settlement aimed at drawing a line under allegations made during Mr Corbyn 's leadership that the party had allowed the overt hatred @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whistleblowers sued the party for defamation after the bombshell Panorama investigation last year .
It is understood the party paid out £500,000 in compensation and legal fees .
The decision was welcomed by MPs and Jewish Labour activists who have long campaigned against anti-Semitism within the party .
But in a sign that the move could reignite factional infighting with the party 's hard Left , Mr Corbyn and his followers including Mr McCluskey attacked the payout .
Mr Corbyn said : “ The Party 's decision to apologise today and make substantial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ party in relation to last year 's Panorama programme is a political decision , not a legal one .
“ Our legal advice was that the party had a strong defence , and the evidence in the leaked Labour report that is now the subject of an NEC inquiry led by Martin Forde QC strengthened concerns about the role played by some of those who took part in the programme.
” The union baron blasted : `` Today 's settlement is a misuse of Labour Party funds to settle a case it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The leaked report on how anti-Semitism was handled tells a very different story about what happened . ''
But senior MP Dame Margaret Hodge , above , said : `` This is a big step in the right direction and shows just how far the Labour Party has come since last year . ''
The Jewish Labour Movement said : `` It is a sad reflection of its historic role as the party of working people that Labour sought to pursue and silence its former employees for speaking out against racism .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in July 2019 of a Panorama programme titled Is Labour Anti-Semitic ?
.
Katherine Buckingham , Michael Creighton , Samuel Matthews , Daniel Hogan , Louise Withers Green , Martha Robinson and Benjamin Westerman all had concerns there was `` a lack of commitment '' by Labour to properly investigate anti-Semitism within the party , the High Court heard on Wednesday .
In a statement , the claimants ' solicitor Mark Lewis said : `` Today in the High Court , the Labour Party retracted its false allegations made about the Panorama programme @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The answer was a clear 'yes ' .
Labour chose to double down and attack the programme 's presenter , John Ware , and the whistleblowers rather than addressing the truth of the problem . ''
Labour 's handling of anti-Semitism allegations under Mr Corbyn 's leadership is the subject of an inquiry by the Equality and Human Rights Commission – and Sir Keir has already received a draft report from the watchdog .

Len McCluskey: Chris Bryant criticises 'misuse' comments
His incendiary remarks came after Labour said it will pay a "substantial” sum to seven whistleblowers who contributed to a TV expose of its handling of anti-Semitism. The move immediately triggered a clash between party leader Sir Keir Starmer and his predecessor with a defiant Mr Corbyn describing the decision as “disappointing”. The move by Sir Keir Starmer's party, which also apologised to the seven, is part of a settlement aimed at drawing a line under allegations made during Mr Corbyn's leadership that the party had allowed the overt hatred of Jewish people to fester.
The whistleblowers sued the party for defamation after the bombshell Panorama investigation last year. It is understood the party paid out £500,000 in compensation and legal fees. The decision was welcomed by MPs and Jewish Labour activists who have long campaigned against anti-Semitism within the party. But in a sign that the move could reignite factional infighting with the party's hard Left, Mr Corbyn and his followers including Mr McCluskey attacked the payout.
Len McCluskey has slated the payout as a waste of Labour Party funds
Sir Keir Starmer has said he will stamp out antisemitism
Mr Corbyn said: “The Party's decision to apologise today and make substantial payments to former staff who sued the party in relation to last year's Panorama programme is a political decision, not a legal one. “Our legal advice was that the party had a strong defence, and the evidence in the leaked Labour report that is now the subject of an NEC inquiry led by Martin Forde QC strengthened concerns about the role played by some of those who took part in the programme.” The union baron blasted: "Today's settlement is a misuse of Labour Party funds to settle a case it was advised we would win in court.
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Dame Margaret Hodge, Labour MP for Barking in Essex
"The leaked report on how anti-Semitism was handled tells a very different story about what happened." But senior MP Dame Margaret Hodge, above, said: "This is a big step in the right direction and shows just how far the Labour Party has come since last year." The Jewish Labour Movement said: "It is a sad reflection of its historic role as the party of working people that Labour sought to pursue and silence its former employees for speaking out against racism." The legal action followed the broadcast in July 2019 of a Panorama programme titled Is Labour Anti-Semitic?.
Katherine Buckingham, Michael Creighton, Samuel Matthews, Daniel Hogan, Louise Withers Green, Martha Robinson and Benjamin Westerman all had concerns there was "a lack of commitment" by Labour to properly investigate anti-Semitism within the party, the High Court heard on Wednesday. In a statement, the claimants' solicitor Mark Lewis said: "Today in the High Court, the Labour Party retracted its false allegations made about the Panorama programme asking whether Labour was anti-Semitic. "The answer was a clear 'yes'. Labour chose to double down and attack the programme's presenter, John Ware, and the whistleblowers rather than addressing the truth of the problem." Labour's handling of anti-Semitism allegations under Mr Corbyn's leadership is the subject of an inquiry by the Equality and Human Rights Commission – and Sir Keir has already received a draft report from the watchdog.
John Mann speaks during a protest against anti-Semitism in the Labour party