thedailyexpress--2020-02-05--‘What the hell are we doing?’ Orbán lashes out at major EU players as divisions grow

Mr Orbán flew to Rome on Tuesday for a meeting with far-right politicians from across the EU .
The Hungarian leader met with Giorgia Meloni , the president of the Brothers of Italy party , and with Santiago Abascal , the head of Spain ’ s extreme right-wing Vox Party , who called their catch-up “ fruitful.
” Ms Meloni praised Hungary ’ s tax and family policies after a meeting with Orbán .
Fidesz ’ ties to the EPP were not discussed but Meloni said she would be delighted if the Hungarian ruling party were to join the European @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Speaking at a gathering of right-wing and far-right politicians on Tuesday , he told the cheering crowd that conservatism is suffering across Europe as the European People ’ s Party , EPP , is drifting to the left and losing its identity .
The European People ’ s Party is a transnational EU party lead by Donald Tusk .
At the event in Rome Mr Orbán asked : “ What the hell are we doing ?
” Orbán flew to the Italian capital to take part in a conference with right-wing nationalists @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the leader of right-wing nationalist party Fratelli d ’ Italia Giorgia Meloni and Marion Marechan , the granddaughter of Jean-Marie Le Pen .
The EPP had no objection to Orbán ’ s visit to Rome , said Mr Tusk , adding it was symbolic that he is at a “ nationalist meeting with far-right political parties during the EPP Political Assembly.
” In Rome , Orbán was greeted by Italian PM Guiseppe Conte , according to Mr Orban ’ s Facebook site .
At the meeting Mr Orbán took the opportunity to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Party ( EPP ) , who have recently agreed to withdraw the voting rights of the party he leads .
JUST IN : Boris shuts down EU ’ s Brexit demands in crunch von der Leyen meeting Mr Orbán ’ s Fidesz party had their voting rights removed finally because they released an anti-immigration poster campaign that featured unflattering photos of European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and billionaire philanthropist George Soros .
Mr Soros is a regular target of Fidesz , which accuses him of encouraging illegal migration to Europe .
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ migrants or defend human rights .
Critics see the attacks on Mr Soros , a Jewish survivor of the Nazi Holocaust in Hungary , as anti-Semitic .

European elections: Viktor Orban casts his vote in Budapest
Mr Orbán flew to Rome on Tuesday for a meeting with far-right politicians from across the EU. The Hungarian leader met with Giorgia Meloni, the president of the Brothers of Italy party, and with Santiago Abascal, the head of Spain’s extreme right-wing Vox Party, who called their catch-up “fruitful.” Ms Meloni praised Hungary’s tax and family policies after a meeting with Orbán.
Fidesz’ ties to the EPP were not discussed but Meloni said she would be delighted if the Hungarian ruling party were to join the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) faction. Speaking at a gathering of right-wing and far-right politicians on Tuesday, he told the cheering crowd that conservatism is suffering across Europe as the European People’s Party, EPP, is drifting to the left and losing its identity. The European People’s Party is a transnational EU party lead by Donald Tusk. At the event in Rome Mr Orbán asked: “What the hell are we doing?”
Viktor Orban Hungarian Prime Minister
Orbán flew to the Italian capital to take part in a conference with right-wing nationalists, including former interior minister Mattheo Salvini, the leader of right-wing nationalist party Fratelli d’Italia Giorgia Meloni and Marion Marechan, the granddaughter of Jean-Marie Le Pen. The EPP had no objection to Orbán’s visit to Rome, said Mr Tusk, adding it was symbolic that he is at a “nationalist meeting with far-right political parties during the EPP Political Assembly.” In Rome, Orbán was greeted by Italian PM Guiseppe Conte, according to Mr Orban’s Facebook site. At the meeting Mr Orbán took the opportunity to take aim at the European People’s Party (EPP), who have recently agreed to withdraw the voting rights of the party he leads. JUST IN: Boris shuts down EU’s Brexit demands in crunch von der Leyen meeting
Viktor Orban Hungarian Prime Minister
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President of the EU Ursula von der Leyen
The Eu parliament
Mr Orbán’s Fidesz party had their voting rights removed finally because they released an anti-immigration poster campaign that featured unflattering photos of European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and billionaire philanthropist George Soros. Mr Soros is a regular target of Fidesz, which accuses him of encouraging illegal migration to Europe. Mr Soros funds civil society groups that help migrants or defend human rights. Critics see the attacks on Mr Soros, a Jewish survivor of the Nazi Holocaust in Hungary, as anti-Semitic.
European currencies
UK and EU timeline
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-05--Brexit timeline: EU sets out goals for 2020 timeline - and it’s not what you’d expect

In a press conference on Monday , EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier set out a timeline for the Brexit transition @ @ @ @ @ until the end of 2020 .
While the EU has repeatedly warned the timeframe is @ @ @ @ @ robust deal , the timeline laid out shows the EU has its own priorities , @ @ @ @ @ FIVE problem areas we could see DELAY negotiations What is a Canada-style free trade agreement @ @ @ @ @ the UK ?
As things stand , the transition period will expire on December 31 @ @ @ @ @ UK heading into 2021 as a completely autonomous state .
The EU has repeatedly warned @ @ @ @ @ doesn ’ t provide long enough to reach a comprehensive deal .
For example , @ @ @ @ @ , with Prime Minister Boris Johnson hopes to use as a model to base negotiations @ @ @ @ @ negotiate and still isn ’ t fully ratified .
Mr Johnson , however , insisted @ @ @ @ @ beyond the end of 2020 .

Brexit: EU to offer ’ambitious trade deal’ says Michel Barnier
In a press conference on Monday, EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier set out a timeline for the Brexit transition period, due to run until the end of 2020. While the EU has repeatedly warned the timeframe is too short to agree a robust deal, the timeline laid out shows the EU has its own priorities, too.
As things stand, the transition period will expire on December 31, 2020, with the UK heading into 2021 as a completely autonomous state. The EU has repeatedly warned the UK this time frame doesn’t provide long enough to reach a comprehensive deal. For example, the Canada free trade agreement, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson hopes to use as a model to base negotiations, took eight years to negotiate and still isn’t fully ratified. Mr Johnson, however, insisted the UK will not extend beyond the end of 2020. READ MORE: Pound to euro exchange rate: Sterling regains strength
Brexit timeline: The transition period will expire on December 31, 2020
Brexit timeline: EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier set out this timeline for the Brexit transition period
READ MORE EU panic as Frexit campaigners team up with Brexit Party Currently, the UK has until the end of June to decide if it wants to extend the period, a date reflected in Mr Barnier’s timeline. Mr Barnier said the timing is “Johnson’s choice”. However, there is another interesting date reflected in Mr Barnier’s timeline for the year, which shows the EU has its own timing issue. The timeline, which you can see in full in the chart above, shows the EU aims to wrap up negotiations by the October European Council summit, currently set for October 15 and 16.
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Brexit timeline: Michel Barnier delivers the press conference with the timetable shown behind him
That would then allow two and half months to ratify the future agreement before the transition period expires. While this might sound feasible, it is very unlikely to run quite so smoothly. First, there is the potential for having to involve national parliaments. If not all parts of the deal agreed are exclusive to the EU as a whole, member states could demand their national parliaments must have a say. DON'T MISS:
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READ MORE Brexit LIVE: Brussels PANIC as EU scrambles to replace UK's £8.4bn Any rejection from a member state - even one - could scupper the whole deal. Then there’s the second factor, which is even more likely: that the EU and UK cannot come to an agreement by October. Already major cracks are showing, with Mr Barnier and Mr Johnson striking vastly different tones in speeches occurring at almost the same time on Monday. Both sides showed contrasting goals for the talks, with Mr Johnson threatening to walk away with no deal rather than signing up to EU rules. Read more here about the five major differences in Mr Johnson and Mr Barnier’s speeches.
Brexit timeline: Boris Johnson delivers his speech in London on Monday
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-05--Brexit LIVE: Brussels set for meltdown as EU scrambles to replace UK's £8.4billion

European Council President Charles Michel will set out preparatory discussions ahead of a summit to broker the EU 's budget between 2021-2027 .
Following the UK 's departure from the EU , Mr Michel is under pressure to replace the substantial amount which will be lost from the budget .
On the weekend , countries from Southern and Eastern Europe met to discuss how to restructure the budget post-Brexit .
Mr Michel will today meet with several European leaders and could clash with Dutch Prime Minister , Mark Rutte , who will represent a more frugal position to the raft @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson will now proceed with talks to establish a trade agreement with the EU now the transition period has begun .
However , this week the EU 's chief negotiator , Michel Barnier warned talks could continue into 2021 .
In a speech on Monday , Mr Barnier said a deal could be agreed but there will be separate agreements which will need to be agreed the following year .
Brexit was also praised by Marine Le Pen who claimed the whole process represented a `` terrifying failure '' from the EU .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ has finally regained its freedom .
`` Brexit is a terrifying failure for the European Union . ''
According to data seen by Yahoo Finance UK , provided by Indeed , more firms have hired more staff to deal with the UK 's exit from the EU .
At its peak , the number of roles mentioning Brexit rose from 25 per every million in September 2016 to 368 in October 2018 .
Bill Richards , managing director at Indeed , said : “ Britain may have left the European Union but our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for potential impacts by hiring workers specifically with Brexit in mind.
” Former Brexit Party MEP for the West Midlands , Rupert Lowe has hit out at the EU and Remainers for a 2011 ruling banning bottled drink retailers from claiming water prevents dehydration .
He said in a tweet : `` Here 's one for the Remainers .
In 2011 the EU banned bottled drink manufacturers from claiming that water prevents dehydration .
`` Two-year jail sentence if found 'guilty ' .
Thought it was us Brexiteers that were thick ?
Madness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ torch British boats after being denied access to UK waters .
Following the UK 's departure from the EU on Friday , French trawlermen had their access to Guernsey 's waters `` temporarily suspended '' .
France ’ s EU affairs minister Amelie de Montchalin last night said they should be able to access the waters around Guernsey by the end of next week as they work to implement the deal .
She said : `` We have a diplomatic agreement .
We received a formal letter from Her Majesty .
“ We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are in implementation.
” French campaigners have joined Brexit Party MEPs to celebrate the UK 's departure from the EU .
He said at the celebration : “ Brexit is a victory for you and I want to celebrate it with you .
`` I really want to thank you because you showed to all of Europe .
So thank you .
According to The Guardian , the Foreign Office has issued a list of banned words to staff .
In the leaked memo , the words and phrases which are banned range @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no deal '' and `` special partnership '' .
The opening sentence of the memo says : `` Brexit is completed .
So do not use the term ‘ Brexit ’ , save as a historical event that took place on 31 January 2020.
” Emmanuel Macron visited Poland this week - the first since he came to power in 2017 - where he declared his desire to strengthen ties with the country .
Mr Macron 's comments come in contrast to relations with the EU and Poland .
Poland has been put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country 's Law and Justice ( PiS ) party 's implementation of judicial reforms .
In the wake of the meeting , Poland 's prime minister , Mateusz Morawiecki , insisted : `` Undoubtedly , France ’ s role in the EU after Brexit is significantly growing.
” A funding row could be on the cards for the EU after countries from Southern and Eastern Europe met in Portugal to discuss the consequences of Brexit .
European Council President , Charles Michel will meet with European leaders today , including Dutch Prime Minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Although some leaders will call for the budget to be inflated following the UK 's departure , Mr Rutte will represent countries who receive less than they pay in and will , therefore , be sceptical to an increased budget .
With that in mind , Mr Rutte will call for a smaller budget than the one previously suggested by the European Commission .

Brexit: Johnson will strike trade deal with EU predicts Hannan
French MEP Nathalie Loiseau appeared on the flagship show to shoot down hopes of the UK getting a Canada-style trade deal with the EU, as well as blast Mr Neil for claiming there are not any strikes in France anymore. Her comments did not go down well with viewers, as one person tweeted: "I just saw Andrew Neil destroy some ex French minister on his show." Another person said: "Andrew Neil just tore a French MEP a new one. How arrogant and condescending. Finger pointing air of suprioriority. Absolute car crash. And then had the nerve to say there were no strikes anymore in France." A third tweeted: "The arrogance of the french MEP talking to Andrew Neil about the Brexit trade talks on BBC 2 right now is absolutely staggering. Screw the EU, we should aim for a no-deal."
Meanwhile, European Council President Charles Michel will set out preparatory discussions ahead of a summit to broker the EU's budget between 2021-2027. Following the UK's departure from the EU, Mr Michel is under pressure to replace the substantial amount which will be lost from the budget. On the weekend, countries from Southern and Eastern Europe met to discuss how to restructure the budget post-Brexit. Mr Michel will today meet with several European leaders and could clash with Dutch Prime Minister, Mark Rutte, who will represent a more frugal position to the raft of expensive new budget requirements. Boris Johnson will now proceed with talks to establish a trade agreement with the EU now the transition period has begun.
Brexit LIVE: French MEP Nathalie Loiseau appeared on the Andrew Neil Show
However, this week the EU's chief negotiator, Michel Barnier warned talks could continue into 2021. In a speech on Monday, Mr Barnier said a deal could be agreed but there will be separate agreements which will need to be agreed the following year. Brexit was also praised by Marine Le Pen who claimed the whole process represented a "terrifying failure" from the EU. She said: "The United Kingdom has finally regained its freedom. "Brexit is a terrifying failure for the European Union." THIS BLOG IS NO LONGER LIVE, PLEASE FOLLOW HERE FOR UPDATES.
9.27pm update: Boris urged to bulk up Royal Navy to protect British fisheries - ‘We must have control!’ Britons have urged the UK Government to protect British fishing vessels and bulk up the Royal Navy to safeguard UK trawlers, an Express.co.uk poll has found. The poll, which was conducted from 3-8pm on February 5, asked: “Should Boris Johnson bulk up the Royal Navy to protect UK fishing rights?” The vast majority of respondents (82 percent) responded “yes”. 24,284 people responded to the survey, with 19,792 backing the Prime Minister to bulk up the Royal Navy. Just 16 percent (3,958 people) said no, with two percent (534 people) responding “don’t know”.
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Andrew Neil called ‘Johnson’s spokesperson’ by French MEP
7.25pm update: French fishermen takeover British waters in Guernsey French fishermen have regained access to waters around Guernsey, French Agriculture Minister Didier Guillaume said on Wednesday, after a five-day ban due to
post-Brexit administrative changes. He said on Twitter: "The first fishing authorisation has just been issued by Guernsey authorities. "French boats will continue fishing in British waters." On Tuesday he had said a solution to the problem would be found "in the coming hours". 6.42pm update: EU looks to expand into Balkans after Brexit The EU has overhauled the process for joining the bloc as it seeks to make it "more credible" for members.
EU President Ursula Von Der Leyen tweeted: “Good message to our #WesternBalkans friends about EU enlargement process: Today the @EU_Commission proposes a credible & dynamic plan paving the way for opening accession talks with North Macedonia & Albania (). EU enlargement is a WIN-WIN situation.” 5.16pm update: Fianna Fail candidates' inexperience deemed no obstacle to dealing with Brexit Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin has insisted his party has the candidates to lead Ireland through the next round of Brexit negotiations. Mr Martin's party has been in a confidence and supply arrangement with Fine Gael for the past four years. Fine Gael has sought to make its role in Brexit negotiations a key part of its re-election strategy. Speaking in Dublin on Wednesday, Mr Martin defended his candidates after Fine Gael leader Leo Varadkar said his "Brexit team" - including Simon Coveney and Helen McEntee - should remain in place. Mr Martin said the experience of Mr Varadkar's team in the first phase of Brexit talks does not put Fianna Fail at a disadvantage, and cited his own role as a former foreign minister. He said: "Helen McEntee did not have experience before she became a minister for state. There are many ministers in new governments who are ministers for the first time. That is a natural phenomenon in politics. "I don't buy that somehow Fine Gael are incredibly superior beings and everyone else is of an inferior quality." He also said Sinn Fein (SF) policies do not "hang together on a lot of fronts". He said some of SF's financial proposals amount to "funny money", and there is no way they can deliver a lot of what they are promising. "We are the only party which has detailed the costs of every promise," Mr Martin said. "As we come to the final days of this campaign, Fine Gael has still failed to provide the funding details for 80% of its promises and Sinn Fein for 75% of its promises, and I welcome last night's debate because the scrutiny they have received will mean more serious questions are arising about their promises." Mr Martin said Fianna Fail would put more resources into education and added that he regretted education had not come up much during the campaign. "We want to reduce class sizes, have targeted support for special needs, and for disadvantaged schools. We're the only party which wants to tackle the funding emergency which is undermining our third level sector. "Education has been one of the passions of my public life. It is the absolute foundation for social and economic progress. We need... a commitment to making our education system more inclusive, to improving funding and supporting our teachers and lecturers."
Brexit LIVE: Rupert Lowe hits out Michel Barnier
4.09pm update: UK readies for fishing war as Boris swells Royal Navy sea patrols with 24 ships on standby Officials have hired extra ships to help the Royal Navy’s Fishery Protection Squadron (FPS) patrol the waters off the UK coast. The move comes after Boris Johnson left Brussels in no doubt of the UK’s position when he declared: “British fishing grounds are first and foremost for British boats.” The Portsmouth-based FPS fleet is currently made up of four River-class offshore patrol vessels and a helicopter. Its ships patrol 80,000 square miles of sea off Britain protecting the country’s fishing rights. 2.05pm update: "Boris will succeed" Former Tory MEP, Daniel Hannan had insisted Mr Johnson will come out on top during the upcoming Brexit negotiations. Mr Hannan said the UK should use the strategy used to sign a trade deal with Switzerland. The UK and Switzerland signed a deal to continue trading after Brexit in February 2019. He added: "To show how easy it is, we did exactly such a deal with Switzerland. “We covered free movement, financial services, free trade aviation, in five months.” 1.48pm update: Issues demand to Boris Johnson The former Brexit Party MEP responded to recent comments from Michel Barnier insisting his main priority was to protect EU citizens. He said: "Barnier again stressing his number one priority is protecting the European project and its citizens. "Full credit to him, he ran rings around May and her team. "It's up to Boris to make his life as difficult as possible and represent the British interest and nothing else!"
Brexit LIVE: French fishermen issues threat
12.27am update: "Time to level up" In Prime Minister's Question today, Boris Johnson once again issued his call to "level up" Britain following Brexit. Despite criticism from Jeremy Corbyn, Mr Johnson defended his Government's record for Brexit and beyond. He said: "I think if you look at what this Government is achieving and what it has achieved it is quite phenomenal." 11.53am update: UK firms hire more workers in Brexit jobs According to data seen by Yahoo Finance UK, provided by Indeed, more firms have hired more staff to deal with the UK's exit from the EU. At its peak, the number of roles mentioning Brexit rose from 25 per every million in September 2016 to 368 in October 2018. Bill Richards, managing director at Indeed, said: “Britain may have left the European Union but our data shows companies are still busy preparing for potential impacts by hiring workers specifically with Brexit in mind.” 11.40am update: Rupert Lowe hits out at EU ruling Former Brexit Party MEP for the West Midlands, Rupert Lowe has hit out at the EU and Remainers for a 2011 ruling banning bottled drink retailers from claiming water prevents dehydration. He said in a tweet: "Here's one for the Remainers. In 2011 the EU banned bottled drink manufacturers from claiming that water prevents dehydration. "Two-year jail sentence if found 'guilty'. Thought it was us Brexiteers that were thick? Madness!" 10.48am update: French trawlermen issue threat to British boats French captains are threatening to torch British boats after being denied access to UK waters. Following the UK's departure from the EU on Friday, French trawlermen had their access to Guernsey's waters "temporarily suspended". France’s EU affairs minister Amelie de Montchalin last night said they should be able to access the waters around Guernsey by the end of next week as they work to implement the deal. She said: "We have a diplomatic agreement. We received a formal letter from Her Majesty. “We have a political agreement, now we are in implementation.”
Brexit is the 'first step' towards 'Frexit' claims French politician
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-05--Boris bruised: Cameron shockingly leaves PM red-faced with climate conference snub

Insiders at Whitehall have told the paper that the former Prime Minister was given the opportunity by Mr Johnson to head the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference ( COP26 ) , which is coming up in November .
It is a move which is set to show the Government ’ s commitment to climate change .
It is thought that Mr Cameron and Mr Johnson - who have shared a rivalry since their days together at Eton College - have recently mended their former fractious relationship .
But Mr Cameron has reported to have rejected the proposal .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ turn to a ministerial appointment to head the conference .
One of the names touted is Lord Hague , a former Tory leader and foreign secretary , according to Telegraph sources .
Initially Tory sources had indicated her successor would be a “ Tory big beast ” , someone with a huge profile worldwide plus a history of delivering major projects .
But with Mr Cameron ’ s rejection , is it thought the Prime Minister will turn to Lord Goldsmith , following a reshuffle , who ’ s a reputable environmentalist .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ are thought to be taken under control of the Tory Government soon .
Despite the snub , Mr Cameron was full of praise for the Prime Minister last week .
He hailed him as a “ visionary ” leader , and that he would go on to be a brilliant Prime Minister , just so “ long as he carries on being well behaved.
” Indeed , the pair have seemingly put water under the bridge , according to the Mail on Sunday .
The news comes as Mr Cameron ’ s entourage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ former Prime Minister ’ s bodyguards left a loaded Glock in a British Airways fight ’ s toilets .
A passenger was shocked to find the 9mm pistol in the toilets , with a mass panic ensuring onboard the transatlantic flight .
The plane even had to be grounded for over an hour before the pilot announced that certain personnel on board the flight were allowed to carry such weapons for the commute .
But one sticky passenger refused to accept the situation , and the gun was finally removed from the plane @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be a 9mm Glock 17 pistol that the close-protection officer had taken off his weapons holster to use the toilet - but had forgotten to pick up again .
A source said to the Express they were just glad the gun been found by a passenger who informed the crew staff .
They said they were thankful it had been picked up by someone who did the right thing .
“ If it had been found by someone with malign intent it could have turned into a very serious incident for everyone on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ involved in the incident has been suspended , pending an investigation .
In a statement , the Metropolitan Police Service said : `` We are aware of the incident on a flight into the UK on February 3 and the officer involved has since been removed from operational duties .
We are taking this matter extremely seriously and an internal investigation is taking place . ''

Insiders at Whitehall have told the paper that the former Prime Minister was given the opportunity by Mr Johnson to head the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), which is coming up in November. It is a move which is set to show the Government’s commitment to climate change. It is thought that Mr Cameron and Mr Johnson - who have shared a rivalry since their days together at Eton College - have recently mended their former fractious relationship.
But Mr Cameron has reported to have rejected the proposal. And this means Mr Johnson will have to turn to a ministerial appointment to head the conference. One of the names touted is Lord Hague, a former Tory leader and foreign secretary, according to Telegraph sources. Initially Tory sources had indicated her successor would be a “Tory big beast”, someone with a huge profile worldwide plus a history of delivering major projects.
Boris Johnson
Mr Cameron.
But with Mr Cameron’s rejection, is it thought the Prime Minister will turn to Lord Goldsmith, following a reshuffle, who’s a reputable environmentalist. Officials who have been working on COP26 are thought to be taken under control of the Tory Government soon. Despite the snub, Mr Cameron was full of praise for the Prime Minister last week.
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The former Prime Minister
He hailed him as a “visionary” leader, and that he would go on to be a brilliant Prime Minister, just so “long as he carries on being well behaved.” Indeed, the pair have seemingly put water under the bridge, according to the Mail on Sunday. The news comes as Mr Cameron’s entourage was left red-faced as one of the former Prime Minister’s bodyguards left a loaded Glock in a British Airways fight’s toilets.
Brexit: Farage says Cameron 'didn't want' 2016 referendum
A passenger was shocked to find the 9mm pistol in the toilets, with a mass panic ensuring onboard the transatlantic flight. The plane even had to be grounded for over an hour before the pilot announced that certain personnel on board the flight were allowed to carry such weapons for the commute. But one sticky passenger refused to accept the situation, and the gun was finally removed from the plane. The retrieved weapon is thought to be a 9mm Glock 17 pistol that the close-protection officer had taken off his weapons holster to use the toilet - but had forgotten to pick up again.
Mr Cameron has rejected the offer from Mr Johnson
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-05--‘On your own!’ Break up of UK feared after Irish election but NI warned no ‘bailout’

In a poll by Ipsos MRBI for the Irish Times , support for left-wing Sinn Fein surged four percent from last month ’ s survey to 25 percent - just days before this weekend ’ s national election .
Similar polls over recent weeks had suggested the party would finish third with the backing of just a fifth of the electorate .
The most recent poll shows support for centre-right Fianna Fail has slipped two percent to 23 percent , while Leo Varadkar ’ s Fine Gael party are languishing in third position with 20 percent of the vote .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ go into a coalition Government unless there is a commitment to an independence vote .
The party has also pledged to push for a vote to be brought forward within the next five years .
The latest poll from Express.co.uk , which ran from 1.40pm until 8.10pm on Tuesday February 4 , asked readers : “ Are you worried about the break up of the UK as Irish election shock fears grow ?
” The poll attracted a massive 14,447 votes , with 70.6 percent ( 10,197 readers ) stating they are worried @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over a quarter ( 25.9 percent or 3,743 readers ) are not worried by a potential break up of the UK from a Sinn Fein election win , while 3.5 percent ( 507 readers ) selected the “ don ’ t know ” option .
While Express.co.uk readers fear a potential break up of the UK following a Sinn Fein victory , they have warned the UK will not rescue Northern Ireland should that eventuality happen - and it negatively impact the country .
One wrote : “ If that is what they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not bail them out when the next downturn in the economy happens and don ’ t buy goods from Ireland that can be produced in England .
READ MORE : Leo Varadkar shamed over use of ’ provocative ’ language against Brexit “ Not being a part of the EU , we should also limit their travel to the UK and who we let in.
” A second reader said : “ As long as they don ’ t come crawling back to us for handouts once they have left us .
Good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commented : “ If the majority want independence or unification , and vote for it , they should have it .
“ Just as long as they take their fair share of UK national debt with them , and do not expect to enjoy special rights or privileges such as the CTA from what remains of the UK/England.
” DO N'T MISS What could Ireland 's election mean for the EU and Brexit negotiations ?
[ ANALYSIS ] Leo Varadkar slams Britain 's 'petty ' and silly post Brexit proposal [ VIDEO ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ boots , writes TIM NEWARK [ COMMENT ] One reader even doubted the latest Ipsos MRBI poll prediction and believes Sinn Fein will not even get the majority required to lead a Government .
Sinn Fein are unlikely to emerge as the largest party from Saturday ’ s general election as it is only running 42 candidates - around half the number of candidates being fielded by both Fine Gael and Fianna Fail .
The party - led by Mary Lou McDonald , has pledged to abolish the Universal Social Charge , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Ireland following the post-boom collapse of the economy , on the first €30,000 earned .
It has also said it would scrap a levy on property if it got into power .
But an Express.co.uk reader wrote : “ Sinn Fein won ’ t get a majority and neither of the other main parties will go into a power sharing agreement so most likely a rainbow government will form and will last about two weeks before collapsing .

Leo Varadkar: It's difficult to form government in next few months
In a poll by Ipsos MRBI for the Irish Times, support for left-wing Sinn Fein surged four percent from last month’s survey to 25 percent - just days before this weekend’s national election. Similar polls over recent weeks had suggested the party would finish third with the backing of just a fifth of the electorate. The most recent poll shows support for centre-right Fianna Fail has slipped two percent to 23 percent, while Leo Varadkar’s Fine Gael party are languishing in third position with 20 percent of the vote.
Sinn Fein has insisted they will not go into a coalition Government unless there is a commitment to an independence vote. The party has also pledged to push for a vote to be brought forward within the next five years. The latest poll from Express.co.uk, which ran from 1.40pm until 8.10pm on Tuesday February 4, asked readers: “Are you worried about the break up of the UK as Irish election shock fears grow?” The poll attracted a massive 14,447 votes, with 70.6 percent (10,197 readers) stating they are worried by such a scenario happening.
Irish election: There are fears a surge from Sinn Fein in a poll could lead to a break up of the UK
Irish election: Mary Lou McDonald's popularity has overtaken Leo Varadkar in a recent poll
Just over a quarter (25.9 percent or 3,743 readers) are not worried by a potential break up of the UK from a Sinn Fein election win, while 3.5 percent (507 readers) selected the “don’t know” option. While Express.co.uk readers fear a potential break up of the UK following a Sinn Fein victory, they have warned the UK will not rescue Northern Ireland should that eventuality happen - and it negatively impact the country. One wrote: “If that is what they want then great. “Just do not bail them out when the next downturn in the economy happens and don’t buy goods from Ireland that can be produced in England. READ MORE: Leo Varadkar shamed over use of ’provocative’ language against Brexit
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Irish election: Leo Varadkar is under huge pressure from his political rivals
“Not being a part of the EU, we should also limit their travel to the UK and who we let in.” A second reader said: “As long as they don’t come crawling back to us for handouts once they have left us. Good luck to them.” Another Express.co.uk reader commented: “If the majority want independence or unification, and vote for it, they should have it. “Just as long as they take their fair share of UK national debt with them, and do not expect to enjoy special rights or privileges such as the CTA from what remains of the UK/England.” DON'T MISS
What could Ireland's election mean for the EU and Brexit negotiations? [ANALYSIS]
Leo Varadkar slams Britain's 'petty' and silly post Brexit proposal [VIDEO]
Leo Varadkar is too big for his boots, writes TIM NEWARK [COMMENT]
Irish election: Mary Lou McDonald is leading a resurgent Sinn Fein
Irish election: Leo Varadkar has insisted he will work right until the end to convince people to vote for Fine Gael
One reader even doubted the latest Ipsos MRBI poll prediction and believes Sinn Fein will not even get the majority required to lead a Government. Sinn Fein are unlikely to emerge as the largest party from Saturday’s general election as it is only running 42 candidates - around half the number of candidates being fielded by both Fine Gael and Fianna Fail. The party - led by Mary Lou McDonald, has pledged to abolish the Universal Social Charge, a tax imposed to help repay international lending to Ireland following the post-boom collapse of the economy, on the first €30,000 earned. It has also said it would scrap a levy on property if it got into power. But an Express.co.uk reader wrote: “Sinn Fein won’t get a majority and neither of the other main parties will go into a power sharing agreement so most likely a rainbow government will form and will last about two weeks before collapsing.
Irish election: Sinn Feinn has pledged to abolish the Universal Social Charge
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-06--‘Deploy the Navy!’ Britons FURIOUS as blocked French fishermen threaten to torch UK boats

Furious social media users have taken to Facebook to express their anger at threats made by French fishermen to the British amid a heated row over UK waters that has seen EU boats excluded for the first time in decades .
One commenter said : “ This is the real reason they didn ’ t want us to leave because they never had to ask they just took what they wanted now it ’ s a different matter !
” A second said : “ Tell the french fisherman to get stuffed.
” Another added : “ Just the sort @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of blaming them selves and their governments for over fishing there own waters but we won ’ t take laying down.
” A fourth added : “ It ’ s best if we deploy the navy to keep our boat ’ s safe.
” Another said : “ Brussels can go sling its hook into their own waters .
And leave ours the hell alone !
” A sixth added : “ Oh dear what a shame .
Touch our boats and see what you get in return.
” It comes as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ temporally suspended ” access to the island ’ s waters by French vessels .

Brexit: EU’s priority is ‘fish and security’ says John Curtice
Furious social media users have taken to Facebook to express their anger at threats made by French fishermen to the British amid a heated row over UK waters that has seen EU boats excluded for the first time in decades. One commenter said: “This is the real reason they didn’t want us to leave because they never had to ask they just took what they wanted now it’s a different matter!” A second said: “Tell the french fisherman to get stuffed.”
Another added: “Just the sort of thing dictators would do selfish Instead of blaming them selves and their governments for over fishing there own waters but we won’t take laying down.” A fourth added: “It’s best if we deploy the navy to keep our boat’s safe.” Another said: “Brussels can go sling its hook into their own waters. And leave ours the hell alone!” A sixth added: “Oh dear what a shame. Touch our boats and see what you get in return.” It comes as the French government announced officials in Guernsey had “temporally suspended” access to the island’s waters by French vessels.
Furious social media users have taken to Facebook to express their anger
The decision sparked uproar, with French captains threatening to set alight British boats
The decision sparked uproar, with French captains threatening to set alight British boats landing their fish on the Continent. But the lockout looks set to continue despite a political agreement for renewed access between London and Paris. France’s EU affairs minister Amelie de Montchalin on Tuesday said they should be able to access the waters around Guernsey by the end of the week as bureaucrats work to implement the deal. She said: “We have a diplomatic agreement. We received a formal letter from Her Majesty. “We have a political agreement… now we are in implementation.” READ NOW: BBC's Brexit coverage a 'serious concern' - Coverage ripped apart [NEWS]
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Prime Minister Boris Johnson this week has dismissed EU demands for concessions
Brexit took place last Friday
Guernsey, like the other Channel Islands, is a self-governing dependency of the British crown, and was never part of the European Union like the UK. The London Fisheries Convention, which gave French vessels access, ended on January 31, with the French government branding the new rules “disrespectful”. Under the newly-minted arrangements, the EU Commission has “pre-validated a list of boats” that can continue fishing in Guernsey,” according to Ms Montchalin. She added: “We have an agreement with Guernsey that they do not collect any money, that it will be without costs. “I alerted the commissioners that this subject is not symbolic, that it is key for confidence in future negotiations.” DON'T MISS:
FISHING ROW: Navy patrols beefed up as EU eyes UK waters [NEWS]
EU prepares to stall trade talks if UK refuses to impose Irish checks [VIDEO]
Italy MEP explains why Britain has ‘upper hand’ in Brexit negotiations [INSIGHT]
French captains threatening to set alight British boats landing their fish on the Continent
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-06--Andrew Neil points out 4 reasons EU will be FINISHED if it doesn't agree Brexit trade deal

In a heated with exchange with French MEP Nathalie Loiseau , BBC broadcaster Andrew Neil pointed out four reasons why the EU needs to agree a trade deal with the UK .
He said : “ The Eurozone is stagnating , France is rocked by strikes and unrest , Germany is in industrial recession , Italy is in economic recession .
Are you sure that the EU could afford no deal ?
” Ms Loiseau then appeared to mock the presenter , and said : “ I am surprised that a journalist doesn ’ t know that there are no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interjected : “ You had two months of strikes.
” The French MEP responded : “ Yes and we survived it.
” Ms Loiseau then answered Mr Neil ’ s original question , and said : “ But you are right I ’ m not sure we can afford to play these games of hurting each other .
“ I do believe that a strong partnership is preferable to any sort of no deal and we stand ready for an ambitious offer and for this it takes two to tango.
” Earlier on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ insisted it was “ up to the UK ” to offer agreeable terms for a UK-EU trade deal .
She said : “ It ’ s really up to the UK to decide what sort of relationship it wants with the EU but it will come with consequences.
” Ms Loiseau then said the “ most profitable relationship ” would be one that remains closely aligned with the bloc .
During the interview , the French politician also accused Mr Neil of being `` Boris Johnson 's spokesperson '' .
The broadcaster questioned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agree to level up to UK standards in a trade deal .
This comment seemed to frustrate the MEP who went on to question why this issue had suddenly become so important .
She questioned whether the British people had been well informed in their vote for Boris Johnson 's Tory Government and their intentions on the environment , state aides and Labour laws .

Andrew Neil called ‘Johnson’s spokesperson’ by French MEP
In a heated with exchange with French MEP Nathalie Loiseau, BBC broadcaster Andrew Neil pointed out four reasons why the EU needs to agree a trade deal with the UK. He said: “The Eurozone is stagnating, France is rocked by strikes and unrest, Germany is in industrial recession, Italy is in economic recession. Are you sure that the EU could afford no deal?”
Ms Loiseau then appeared to mock the presenter, and said: “I am surprised that a journalist doesn’t know that there are no strikes anymore in France.” Mr Neil interjected: “You had two months of strikes.” The French MEP responded: “Yes and we survived it.” Ms Loiseau then answered Mr Neil’s original question, and said: “But you are right I’m not sure we can afford to play these games of hurting each other.
Andrew Neil points out four reasons EU will be finished
The French MEP warned leaving the EU 'would have consequences'
“I do believe that a strong partnership is preferable to any sort of no deal and we stand ready for an ambitious offer and for this it takes two to tango.” Earlier on the in the interview the French politician insisted it was “up to the UK” to offer agreeable terms for a UK-EU trade deal. She said: “It’s really up to the UK to decide what sort of relationship it wants with the EU but it will come with consequences.” Ms Loiseau then said the “most profitable relationship” would be one that remains closely aligned with the bloc.
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Andrew Neil was accused of being the Prime Minister's spokesperson
During the interview, the French politician also accused Mr Neil of being "Boris Johnson's spokesperson". The broadcaster questioned Ms Loiseau over whether the EU would agree to level up to UK standards in a trade deal. This comment seemed to frustrate the MEP who went on to question why this issue had suddenly become so important. She questioned whether the British people had been well informed in their vote for Boris Johnson's Tory Government and their intentions on the environment, state aides and Labour laws.
Brexit - what happens next?


thedailyexpress--2020-02-06--'He was brutal and tormented me!' - Ex-Black Rod official in bitter assessment of Bercow

David Leakey , writing in the Daily Mail , accused Mr Bercow of “ brutalising ” staff - and even @ @ @ @ @ He wrote : “ During four decades in the Army , I met and worked @ @ @ @ @ share of difficult people .
“ But none of them came close to displaying the @ @ @ @ @ dished out by John Bercow , which I witnessed during the seven years I spent @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Baron ‘ Bully ’ Bercow were ever to take a well-remunerated and taxpayer-funded @ @ @ @ @ red benches of the House of Lords , something that Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn trying @ @ @ @ @ , indeed , would struggle to live it down.
” Mr Bercow was Speaker of @ @ @ @ @ 2009 to 2019 and served as an MP for Buckingham from 1997 .
Back in @ @ @ @ @ , Mr Bercow 's former private secretary spoke on BBC Newsnight , alleging that Mr @ @ @ @ @ work , on multiple occasions .

John Bercow peerage would be a 'scandal' says David Leakey
David Leakey, writing in the Daily Mail, accused Mr Bercow of “brutalising” staff - and even “tormenting” him. He wrote: “During four decades in the Army, I met and worked with more than my fair share of difficult people.
“But none of them came close to displaying the utterly unacceptable and bullying behaviour dished out by John Bercow, which I witnessed during the seven years I spent in Parliament as Black Rod. “Baron ‘Bully’ Bercow were ever to take a well-remunerated and taxpayer-funded seat for life on the red benches of the House of Lords, something that Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn trying to bring about, Parliament, indeed, would struggle to live it down.” Mr Bercow was Speaker of the House of Commons from 2009 to 2019 and served as an MP for Buckingham from 1997. Back in May 2018, Angus Sinclair, Mr Bercow's former private secretary spoke on BBC Newsnight, alleging that Mr Bercow had bullied him at work, on multiple occasions.
David Leakey stands by his allegations.
Leakey's piece appeared in the Daily Mail.
Mr Sinclair stated he was forced to sing a non-disclosure agreement after he left his position. Mr Bercow denied the allegations. But now Mr Leakey has made further allegations about the 57-year-old. He continued: “Bercow’s explosive and intemperate behaviour is legendary, objectionable and unworthy of someone in public office. “He brutalised staff – including me – in the House of Commons and elsewhere with his angry moods and outbursts, which included thumping the table as he raged, and jumping up and down in fury. “This week, with a score-settling book to promote, the former Speaker took to TV studios and radio stations to lash out at me for daring to have called out his disgraceful and bullying behaviour to staff, which he of course denies. READ MORE:Ex-Black Rod official in bitter assessment of John Bercow
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Former Speaker John Bercow.
He called my allegations ‘total and utter rubbish from start to finish...The guy is a know-nothing...He hasn’t the foggiest idea what he is talking about. None of those things is true.” “Well, Bercow certainly knows how to insult people: a tactic he employed so often in the Commons Chamber to silence or humiliate hapless MPs and ministers “But he makes a fundamental error – which I can only assume is deliberate – in suggesting that I could know nothing about how he behaved towards staff in the Commons just because, as Black Rod, I was employed by the House of Lords. "He ranted that I was ‘completely and utterly ignorant’ and ‘in absolutely no position whatsoever to comment on my relations with my parliamentary colleagues...He doesn’t know what my relations were with my clerks. JUST IN:
'Disgusted!’ Britons furious at Corbyn’s plot to get Bercow in Lords [LATEST]
John Bercow savaged over 'embarassing' legacy and peerage bid [INSIGHT]
John Bercow peerage would be a 'scandal' says former collegue [LATEST]
Mr Bercow and Mr Leakey together
Mr Bercow attending Wimbledon
“He has absolutely no intelligence on those matters whatsoever. "Bercow is either ignorant of - or has conveniently forgotten – what the role of Black Rod actually involves. Like all holders of that historic post, which was founded in 1350, I was known to the public mainly for my ceremonial role at the State Opening of Parliament. “Marching while wearing the traditional breeches and stockings – like ‘an ageing pageboy at a society wedding’ as one observer memorably put it – to hammer on the door of the Commons, I summoned MPs to hear the Queen’s Speech in the House of Lords. “I only hope they do so soon. For the sake of our country and the dignity of our Parliament, let Bully Bercow never again swagger through the doors of the Palace of Westminster.
John Bercow would 'lose the plot' claims David Leakey
It comes as Mr Bercow lashed out at his former Parliament colleagues for accusing him of bullying staff. He labelled the allegations "total and utter rubbish" in a fiery tirade on Sky News. In his first interview since the complaint was lodged and the story broke, Mr Bercow defended himself, telling Sky News that they were: “Total and utter rubbish, from start to finish.
Mr Bercow has denied the allegations.


thedailyexpress--2020-02-06--Brian Cox hits out at Labour leadership frontrunners - ‘Have they learned nothing!’

Brian Cox , who was once heavily involved with the Labour Party - voicing their election broadcasts in 1997 when Tony Blair entered No10 , famously quit the party in 2015 for his “ disillusionment ” with the party ’ s leadership and its stance on Scottish independence .
As Labour edges closer to choosing its next leader , the actor has warned not to back the two frontrunners in the leadership race .
In an interview with ES Magazine , Mr Cox hit out at Sir Keir Starmer - the current favourite to succeed Jeremy Corbyn , saying he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also warned against backing Rebecca Long-Bailey , who is seen as the continuity candidate .
Mr Cox said if she did win the leadership race , “ it mean they have learned nothing ” .
But the actor , best known for his portrayal of King Lear with the Royal Shakespeare Company , said he would “ prefer a woman ” to be the next leader of the party .
He said : “ I don ’ t like Keir Starmer .
He is a suit .
Too corporate .
Too much a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lisa Nandy for the leadership bid and said : “ She seems to me to get it more.
” There are currently four Labour MPs left in the leadership race , with the fourth candidate being Shadow Foreign Secretary Emily Thornberry .
After a series of ballots using the alternative vote system , the candidates will find out the final result at a special Labour conference on April 4 .
Sir Keir is currently leading the race , surging in both the polls and Constituency Labour Party ( CLP ) nominations .
JUST @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Royal Navy to protect British fisheries He currently has the backing of 144 local Labour parties , compared with 64 for Ms Long Bailey .
Ms Nandy trails with 27 , while Ms Thorberry is struggling with the backing of just 10 .
Each candidate requires the backing of 33 CLPs or three affiliates - two of which must be unions - to make it to the second round of the contest .
Unions and affiliates include : Unison , SERA , Usdaw , Community , Labour Movement for Europe and Labour business @ @ @ @ @ @ @ points out 4 reasons EU will be FINISHED [ INSIGHT ] EU prepares to stall trade talks if UK refuses to impose Irish checks [ ANALYSIS ] Italy MEP explains why Britain has ‘ upper hand ’ in Brexit negotiations [ DEVELOPED ] In 2015 Mr Cox quit the Labour party and joined the SNP after attacking the “ empty rhetoric of leading members of the party ” .
At the time he said he had become disillusioned with the party .
He said : “ I always believed the Labour party stood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no longer believe they do and , as I say , it is with deep sadness that I am resigning from the party – a party I believed in but has now failed in the last few years to live up to its basic principles .
“ I feel the Scottish National party is the party taking forward values of social justice and represents Scotland ’ s best interests and that is why I have , like many other Labour supporters , decided to become a member of the SNP .
”

Labour leadership: Thornberry explains why she's 'behind'
Brian Cox, who was once heavily involved with the Labour Party - voicing their election broadcasts in 1997 when Tony Blair entered No10, famously quit the party in 2015 for his “disillusionment” with the party’s leadership and its stance on Scottish independence. As Labour edges closer to choosing its next leader, the actor has warned not to back the two frontrunners in the leadership race. In an interview with ES Magazine, Mr Cox hit out at Sir Keir Starmer - the current favourite to succeed Jeremy Corbyn, saying he was “too corporate”.
He also warned against backing Rebecca Long-Bailey, who is seen as the continuity candidate. Mr Cox said if she did win the leadership race, “it mean they have learned nothing”. But the actor, best known for his portrayal of King Lear with the Royal Shakespeare Company, said he would “prefer a woman” to be the next leader of the party. He said: “I don’t like Keir Starmer. He is a suit. Too corporate. Too much a lawyer.”
Brian Cox urged the Labour Party to learn from its past mistakes
Brian Cox quit the Labour Party in 2015
Instead, Mr Cox backed Lisa Nandy for the leadership bid and said: “She seems to me to get it more.” There are currently four Labour MPs left in the leadership race, with the fourth candidate being Shadow Foreign Secretary Emily Thornberry. After a series of ballots using the alternative vote system, the candidates will find out the final result at a special Labour conference on April 4. Sir Keir is currently leading the race, surging in both the polls and Constituency Labour Party (CLP) nominations. JUST IN: Boris urged to bulk up Royal Navy to protect British fisheries
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Brian Cox said Keir Starmer was 'too corporate'
Rebecca Long-Bailey has been backed by Jeremy Corbyn
Brian Cox said he would prefer a female Labour leader
In 2015 Mr Cox quit the Labour party and joined the SNP after attacking the “empty rhetoric of leading members of the party”. At the time he said he had become disillusioned with the party. He said: “I always believed the Labour party stood for social democracy but sadly, I no longer believe they do and, as I say, it is with deep sadness that I am resigning from the party – a party I believed in but has now failed in the last few years to live up to its basic principles. “I feel the Scottish National party is the party taking forward values of social justice and represents Scotland’s best interests and that is why I have, like many other Labour supporters, decided to become a member of the SNP.”
Labour Party policies backed by the leadership candidates
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-06--BREXIT BEGINS! Australia trade talks start TODAY as Raab launches UK’s post-EU strategy

The government wants to build on existing business links , which are worth more than £18 billion .
Mr Raab is on a whistle-stop tour tour of the Asia-Pacific region following the UK 's departure from the EU last week , including stops in Japan , Singapore and Malaysia .
He will meet Australia ’ s Prime Minister Scott Morrison and as well as trade and foreign ministers .
“ The UK and Australia have a unique friendship , with shared history , culture and values , ” the Foreign Secretary said .
“ Following the UK ’ s departure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to broaden our horizons to embrace the huge opportunities in the Indo-Pacific region including with Australia .
“ Australia is a natural partner and we are ready to negotiate a comprehensive trade deal .
We have a multi-billion pound trade relationship with investment in both directions supporting jobs and growth in both economies .
Japanese firms are already big investors in Britain with manufacturers encouraged by Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher 's Conservative government in the 1980s to use the country as a gateway into the rest of the EU .
Many are now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the continent after a transition period finishes at the end of December and Tokyo could seek the elimination of tariffs on exported goods as part of a deal with London .
Mr Raab ’ s visit comes after Foreign Office staff were reportedly banned from using the phrase `` no-deal '' Brexit despite the real possibility of Britain leaving the EU without a trade deal .
A directive obtained by the Guardian orders officials to stop saying `` implementation period '' , `` deal/no deal '' or `` Brexit '' , except @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that took place on 31 January 2020 '' .
That is despite the fact the UK has barely started talks on a post-Brexit trade deal with the EU - and is only a few days into the implementation period ( which the memo says to call the `` transition period ) .

Brexit: Dominic Raab outlines Australia trade deal plans
The government wants to build on existing business links, which are worth more than £18 billion. Mr Raab is on a whistle-stop tour tour of the Asia-Pacific region following the UK's departure from the EU last week, including stops in Japan, Singapore and Malaysia. He will meet Australia’s Prime Minister Scott Morrison and as well as trade and foreign ministers.
“The UK and Australia have a unique friendship, with shared history, culture and values,” the Foreign Secretary said. “Following the UK’s departure from the EU we have the chance to broaden our horizons to embrace the huge opportunities in the Indo-Pacific region including with Australia. “Australia is a natural partner and we are ready to negotiate a comprehensive trade deal. We have a multi-billion pound trade relationship with investment in both directions supporting jobs and growth in both economies. “The scope for win-win is huge.” Japanese firms are already big investors in Britain with manufacturers encouraged by Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher's Conservative government in the 1980s to use the country as a gateway into the rest of the EU.
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab
An early trade deal with Australia will begin today
Many are now concerned about possible trade friction between Britain and the continent after a transition period finishes at the end of December and Tokyo could seek the elimination of tariffs on exported goods as part of a deal with London. Mr Raab’s visit comes after Foreign Office staff were reportedly banned from using the phrase "no-deal" Brexit despite the real possibility of Britain leaving the EU without a trade deal. A directive obtained by the Guardian orders officials to stop saying "implementation period", "deal/no deal" or "Brexit", except when referring to a "historical event that took place on 31 January 2020". That is despite the fact the UK has barely started talks on a post-Brexit trade deal with the EU - and is only a few days into the implementation period (which the memo says to call the "transition period).


thedailyexpress--2020-02-05--Bercow is 'DESPERATE to remain relevant!' Leakey demands END to ex-speaker peerage talks

David Leakey accused the former Commons Speaker of brutalising staff during his ten year reign as the pair became embroiled in a fresh war of words .
The former Black Rod , who has spoken out previously about Mr Bercow ’ s behaviour , renewed his attacks after the former MP publicly attacked him .
Lieutenant General Leakey said : `` He would fly into a rage , the red mist would descend .
`` And he would be jumping up and down and bawling out , and shouting insults .
`` He called me an anti-Semite once after being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , education and military career .
`` I think that if John Bercow was given a peerage it would be a scandal that Parliament would struggle to live down . ''
Lt Gen Leakey has submitted a formal complaint against the ex-speaker `` highlighting his bullying behaviour towards a number of parliamentary staff , including myself , over a period of years '' .
Mr Bercow said the allegations were `` total and utter rubbish '' .
`` He is in absolutely no position whatsoever to comment on my relations with my parliamentary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and utterly ignorant , ” he said .
`` He does n't know what my relations were with my clerks .
He has absolutely no intelligence on those matters whatsoever .
`` What we have got here is somebody who left the House , who is thrashing about , desperate to remain relevant , popping up at every turn , trying to make himself seem very important , very centre-stage , very at the heart of things in the way that I went about my work . ''
Jeremy Corbyn is said to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ despite outstanding bullying claims against him .
Diane Abbott , a close ally of the Labour leader , faced a backlash when she poured scorn on Lt Gen Leakey 's complaint .
Union bosses , party colleagues and military charities waded in after she suggested it was unlikely a former general could have been bullied by John Bercow .
`` He had been a lieutenant general who served in Germany , Northern Ireland and Bosnia , '' she wrote , `` but claims he was bullied ( i.e .
intimidated and coerced ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dave Penman , general secretary of the FDA union which represents senior civil servants , mocked Ms Abbott 's comment and said she had a `` complete failure to understand '' the abuse of power in the workplace .

John Bercow peerage would be a 'scandal' says David Leakey
David Leakey accused the former Commons Speaker of brutalising staff during his ten year reign as the pair became embroiled in a fresh war of words. The former Black Rod, who has spoken out previously about Mr Bercow’s behaviour, renewed his attacks after the former MP publicly attacked him. Lieutenant General Leakey said: "He would fly into a rage, the red mist would descend. "And he would be jumping up and down and bawling out, and shouting insults.
"He called me an anti-Semite once after being rather rude and insulting about my background, education and military career. "I think that if John Bercow was given a peerage it would be a scandal that Parliament would struggle to live down." Lt Gen Leakey has submitted a formal complaint against the ex-speaker "highlighting his bullying behaviour towards a number of parliamentary staff, including myself, over a period of years". Mr Bercow said the allegations were "total and utter rubbish". "He is in absolutely no position whatsoever to comment on my relations with my parliamentary colleagues, of which he is completely and utterly ignorant,” he said. "He doesn't know what my relations were with my clerks. He has absolutely no intelligence on those matters whatsoever.
Former Speaker of the House of Commons John Bercow
Lieutenant General David Leakey
"What we have got here is somebody who left the House, who is thrashing about, desperate to remain relevant, popping up at every turn, trying to make himself seem very important, very centre-stage, very at the heart of things in the way that I went about my work." Jeremy Corbyn is said to have nominated the ex-Speaker for a peerage despite outstanding bullying claims against him. Diane Abbott, a close ally of the Labour leader, faced a backlash when she poured scorn on Lt Gen Leakey's complaint. Union bosses, party colleagues and military charities waded in after she suggested it was unlikely a former general could have been bullied by John Bercow. "He had been a lieutenant general who served in Germany, Northern Ireland and Bosnia," she wrote, "but claims he was bullied (i.e. intimidated and coerced) by John Bercow. Unlikely." Dave Penman, general secretary of the FDA union which represents senior civil servants, mocked Ms Abbott's comment and said she had a "complete failure to understand" the abuse of power in the workplace.
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Diane Abbott faced a backlash when she poured scorn on Lt Gen Leakey's complaint


thedailyexpress--2020-02-05--Poll: Should Boris Johnson bulk up the Royal Navy to protect UK fishing waters? VOTE HERE

Mr Johnson has in the past declared he will scrap the much-maligned Common Fisheries Policy ( CFP ) once the UK is out of the EU .
In light of threats towards UK vessels from European fishermen , we ’ re asking Express.co.uk readers : ‘ Should Boris Johnson bulk up the Royal Navy to protect UK fishing rights ?
’ THIS POLL HAS NOW CLOSED - SEE RESULTS HERE .
Since Brexit Day , the row over the future of UK waters has intensified with some British fishermen fearing their ships could be torched .
There has also been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from entering key ports on the continent .
Following Brexit Day , the French government accused the London Fisheries Convention of being “ disrespectful ” after they lost their licence to fish in Guernsey .
Dave Gillingham , from Alderney , Guernsey , said he had been warned by French fishermen his catch would not be safe in France .
He said : “ They could blockade the port if we try to land or set fire to our boats .
“ It has all been done in the past.
” In the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clashed with their French rivals and there are fears these clashes could reoccur .
Pierro Le Cheminant , 53 , of Guernsey , said : “ The email said it was not safe for us to go in there and that if we went , our fish would be destroyed .
JUST IN : How Boris Johnson 's EU deal mirrors Edward Heath 's bid to JOIN bloc “ French fishermen are up in arms and I can see why .
“ The paperwork the French need hasn ’ t been provided yet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ French feel that if they can ’ t fish in our waters , then we shouldn ’ t be able to land fish in theirs.
” In order to defend against potential attacks from EU fishermen the Department for Environment , Food and Rural Affairs ( Defra ) has lined up to two extra fishing vessels to bolster the Royal Navy ’ s Fishery Protection Squadron ( FPS ) , Politico has reported .
DO N'T MISS ‘ No use to them ’ Varadkar issues UK fishing threat in final Brexit dig [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ‘ driving seat ’ for ‘ important ’ EU negotiation [ Latest ] Brexit fisheries policy : EU to require a licence for access to UK waters [ Latest ] Two more ships will help prevent unlicensed fishing while 22 others can be scrambled at short notice while a further 35 enforcement officers have also been recruited .
The FPS is currently made up of four river-class patrol vessels and a helicopter .
They patrol approximately 80,000 square miles of Britain in order to secure fishing rights .
Mr Johnson has been put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but the EU has already begun to insist on crucial trade-offs during negotiations .
In order for the UK to access the single market , EU officials have stated British fishing waters must remain open to foreign vessels .
Henk Bakker , a Dutch trawler captain told the BBC that without access to waters his trade would be severely hit .
He said : “ If the English say we can not fish in their area , we can not come here .

Brexit: EU’s priority is ‘fish and security’ says John Curtice
Mr Johnson has in the past declared he will scrap the much-maligned Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) once the UK is out of the EU. In light of threats towards UK vessels from European fishermen, we’re asking Express.co.uk readers: ‘Should Boris Johnson bulk up the Royal Navy to protect UK fishing rights?’ THIS POLL HAS NOW CLOSED - SEE RESULTS HERE.
Since Brexit Day, the row over the future of UK waters has intensified with some British fishermen fearing their ships could be torched. There has also been speculation EU fishermen could blockade UK boats from entering key ports on the continent. Following Brexit Day, the French government accused the London Fisheries Convention of being “disrespectful” after they lost their licence to fish in Guernsey. Dave Gillingham, from Alderney, Guernsey, said he had been warned by French fishermen his catch would not be safe in France.
Brexit news: Should Boris bolster the navy?
Brexit news: Mr Johnson will face a tough battle over fishing
He said: “They could blockade the port if we try to land or set fire to our boats. “It has all been done in the past.” In the summer of 2018, British scallop fishermen clashed with their French rivals and there are fears these clashes could reoccur. Pierro Le Cheminant, 53, of Guernsey, said: “The email said it was not safe for us to go in there and that if we went, our fish would be destroyed. JUST IN: How Boris Johnson's EU deal mirrors Edward Heath's bid to JOIN bloc
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Brexit news: Fishermen in fear of attack of their vessels
Brexit news: Mr Johnson has been warned of potential trade offs in negotiations
Brexit news: Mr Johnson has pledged to protect British fishing rights
Two more ships will help prevent unlicensed fishing while 22 others can be scrambled at short notice while a further 35 enforcement officers have also been recruited. The FPS is currently made up of four river-class patrol vessels and a helicopter. They patrol approximately 80,000 square miles of Britain in order to secure fishing rights. Mr Johnson has been put under pressure to secure British fishing rights but the EU has already begun to insist on crucial trade-offs during negotiations.
Brexit timeline
In order for the UK to access the single market, EU officials have stated British fishing waters must remain open to foreign vessels. Henk Bakker, a Dutch trawler captain told the BBC that without access to waters his trade would be severely hit. He said: “If the English say we cannot fish in their area, we cannot come here.
Brexit news: Michel Barnier has warned the UK cannot benefit from the EU without being a member
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-05--PMQs LIVE: Boris demolishes SNP for grovelling to the EU in fiery assault on Blackford

Despite an increase in rhetoric from the SNP on the issue in recent weeks , the party has so far failed to land any punches on the Prime Minister when trying to persuade the public on the case for a fresh vote .
The SNP 's leader , Nicola Sturgeon , last week said she was considering legal action to try and force the UK Government into granting her a fresh vote on the future of Scotland .
Scotland has taken the front seat in the Commons in recent Wednesdays as Mr Corbyn 's PMQs outings have been lackluster since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with even Labour MPs failing to cheer on their leader as he battles with the Prime Minister at the dispatch box .
With a 78 seat majority in the Commons , Mr Johnson has been buoyant in his recent encounters with the Opposition at PMQs , easily palming off attacks from the other side of the House .
He has promised to seek a trade deal with the EU that would `` unleashing Britain 's potential '' .
However , Mr Corbyn denounced the Prime minister 's plans on Monday claiming `` ideology @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BELOW FOR EXPRESS.CO.UK 'S COVERAGE OF HOW PMQS UNFOLDED : 12.28pm update : The Prime Minister asked for reassurance on the Government 's Streatham terror attack response Conservative MP Bernard Jenkins has asked for reassurances from the Government following the Streatham terror attack over the weekend .
He asked the Prime Minister `` would he agree Her Majesty 's Government has no option but to legislate to try and contain the threat '' when terror convicts still pose a threat to the UK Mr Johnson said `` it was time '' to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ properly .
He said he was convinced the majority of the public agrees .
12.26pm update : Boris Johson hints at reform of the Supreme Court Following the Supreme Court 's decision to rule against the prorogation of Parliament last year , Mr Johnson once again today suggested he is considering judicial reform .
He told the Commons : `` We must protect judicial review .
It is an important part of our system .
`` However , we should also ensure it is not used to conduct politics by other means or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ update : Labour backbencher calls for more spending on education Labour 's Catherine West described UK classrooms as `` Dickensian '' and demanded more be spent on education .
Mr Johnson said the Government was investing a record £14biillion more into education before taking a swipe at Labour 's socialist policies in the general election .
Attacking Mr Corbyn 's policies , he said : “ We can only do that because we are running a strong and dynamic market economy . ''
12.20pm update : 'We 've taken control back ! '
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ infrastructure , says Mark Logan MP .
Praising the Prime Minister for getting Brexit done , Bolton North East MP , Mark Logan , has called on the Government to invest in infrastructure in the north of England .
He asked Mr Johnson : `` Sometimes we are the train , sometimes we are the track ...
But after last week , we have taken control back .
Does the Prime Minister agree that now is the time for us the be the track for a metro link between Manchester and Bolton ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a fan of improving transport links in the north , he responded by saying he had given the mayor of Bolton `` the tools '' to make such a link possible .
He added : `` Let 's hope they build the metro link . ''
12.16pm update : A call for more to be done to stop knife crime Warwick and Leamington MP , Matt Western , has said in the past two weeks two people have been killed in his constituency due to knife crime .
He has accused the Conservatives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stabbing epidemic .
Responding , the Tory leader said : `` The honorable gentleman is making an important point about violent crime and I share his anger and that 's why we 're putting an extra 20,000 police on our streets '' He added : `` We will get that crime rate down . ''
12.15pm update : SNP raise issue of Scottish independence once again Keeping up the pressure of Scottish independence on Boris Johnson , the SNP has once again demanded a second independence referendum .
However , in a passionate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prime Minister said : `` Their proposal is to try and rejoin the European Union , to have a different currency they are yet to identify , to have a border at Berwick and just days after the UK has taken back control of marine wealth , to hand it back to Brussels . ''
Turning on the SNP 's domestic record in government , he added : `` They should concentrate on doing a better job for the people of Scotland '' .
READ MORE : ‘ They 'll hand fishing rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warning of SNP threat 12.10pm update : Boris Johnson attacks the SNP for trying to break up the 'most successful union in 300 years ' The SNP 's leader in the Commons , Ian Blackford , asked Boris johnson is he was `` intentionally trying to impersonate Donald Trump '' .
The nationalist claimed the Prime Minister has been protectionist in his plans for the future of the UK as part of his evidence for making the compassion .
However , hitting back at Mr Blackford , the Conservative leader said : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my speech on Monday could mistake if for anything but the most passionate , internationalist , global , outward-looking approach .
`` There is only one party in this country that has 'nationalist ' in their name .
That 's them .
They would break up the most successful political partnership of the last 300 years . ''
The Tory benches roared in approval of the Prime Minister 's response - however , he appears to have made a small slip-up as the ' N ' in SNP stands for `` national '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Labour leader accused the Conservatives of `` failing spectacularly '' to measure up to the scale of the `` climate crisis '' the country is facing , Mr Johnson hit back with a full-throttle rebuttal .
The Prime Minister accused Labour of being 'beyond satire ' in its attacks on the Government 's green record .
He pointed out the UK is the only country in the world to commit to being carbon neutral by 2050 .
While mentioning Brexit in his opening question , as he said he would continue to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU trade negotiations , Mr Corbyn chose to focus on climate change for today 's debate in the chamber .
Mr Johnson replied by defending the Government 's record , saying : `` I think if you look at what this Government is achieving and what it has achieved it is quite phenomenal . ''
Joking about his opposite number he said Mr Corbyn only ever produced `` hot air '' .
12.02pm update : Time to 'united and level up ! '
Following praise from one of his backbench MPs for getting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minister has called for all parts of the UK to come together .
He said it is now time to be `` united and level up '' Britain so the whole country can prosper going forward .
12.00pm update : And we 're off !
Boris Johnson gets us underway with praise for the police Boris Johnson has opened PMQs by praising the police following the Streatham terror attack on Sunday .
He said the attack proved there was a need for more to be done to protect the police and the public @ @ @

PMQs: Boris Johnson grills Blackford on SNP's EU plans
Despite the historic moment in UK history, the Labour leader chose to barely mention the topic during today's meeting in the House of Commons, with Mr Corbyn instead pushing the Prime Minister on climate change. Instead, the most block-buster moment from the debate came when the SNP's Ian Blackford demanded a fresh Scotland independence referendum following the UK's EU exit.
PMQs: Boris Johnson hit abck at Ian Blackford over the SNP's record in government
Despite an increase in rhetoric from the SNP on the issue in recent weeks, the party has so far failed to land any punches on the Prime Minister when trying to persuade the public on the case for a fresh vote. The SNP's leader, Nicola Sturgeon, last week said she was considering legal action to try and force the UK Government into granting her a fresh vote on the future of Scotland. Scotland has taken the front seat in the Commons in recent Wednesdays as Mr Corbyn's PMQs outings have been lackluster since last year's December 12 election, with even Labour MPs failing to cheer on their leader as he battles with the Prime Minister at the dispatch box. With a 78 seat majority in the Commons, Mr Johnson has been buoyant in his recent encounters with the Opposition at PMQs, easily palming off attacks from the other side of the House. He has promised to seek a trade deal with the EU that would "unleashing Britain's potential". However, Mr Corbyn denounced the Prime minister's plans on Monday claiming "ideology had trumped common sense". SEE BELOW FOR EXPRESS.CO.UK'S COVERAGE OF HOW PMQS UNFOLDED:
12.28pm update: The Prime Minister asked for reassurance on the Government's Streatham terror attack response Conservative MP Bernard Jenkins has asked for reassurances from the Government following the Streatham terror attack over the weekend. He asked the Prime Minister "would he agree Her Majesty's Government has no option but to legislate to try and contain the threat" when terror convicts still pose a threat to the UK Mr Johnson said "it was time" to make sure terror convicts' sentences were scrutinised properly. He said he was convinced the majority of the public agrees. 12.26pm update: Boris Johson hints at reform of the Supreme Court Following the Supreme Court's decision to rule against the prorogation of Parliament last year, Mr Johnson once again today suggested he is considering judicial reform. He told the Commons: "We must protect judicial review. It is an important part of our system. "However, we should also ensure it is not used to conduct politics by other means or to create needless delay."
Boris Johnson has hinted at judicial reform
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12.22 update: Labour backbencher calls for more spending on education Labour's Catherine West described UK classrooms as "Dickensian" and demanded more be spent on education. Mr Johnson said the Government was investing a record £14biillion more into education before taking a swipe at Labour's socialist policies in the general election. Attacking Mr Corbyn's policies, he said: “We can only do that because we are running a strong and dynamic market economy." 12.20pm update: 'We've taken control back!' ...now let's invest in northern infrastructure, says Mark Logan MP. Praising the Prime Minister for getting Brexit done, Bolton North East MP, Mark Logan, has called on the Government to invest in infrastructure in the north of England. He asked Mr Johnson: "Sometimes we are the train, sometimes we are the track... But after last week, we have taken control back. Does the Prime Minister agree that now is the time for us the be the track for a metro link between Manchester and Bolton?" The Prime Minister has long been a fan of improving transport links in the north, he responded by saying he had given the mayor of Bolton "the tools" to make such a link possible. He added: "Let's hope they build the metro link."
PMQs: Boris Johnson has promised to do more to help transport links in the north
PMQs: Responding to the MP for Warwick, Boris Johnson promised to reduce UK knife crime
12.16pm update: A call for more to be done to stop knife crime Warwick and Leamington MP, Matt Western, has said in the past two weeks two people have been killed in his constituency due to knife crime. He has accused the Conservatives of not doing enough to reduce the stabbing epidemic. Responding, the Tory leader said: "The honorable gentleman is making an important point about violent crime and I share his anger and that's why we're putting an extra 20,000 police on our streets" He added: "We will get that crime rate down." 12.15pm update: SNP raise issue of Scottish independence once again Keeping up the pressure of Scottish independence on Boris Johnson, the SNP has once again demanded a second independence referendum. However, in a passionate defence of the United Kingdom, the Prime Minister said: "Their proposal is to try and rejoin the European Union, to have a different currency they are yet to identify, to have a border at Berwick and just days after the UK has taken back control of marine wealth, to hand it back to Brussels." Turning on the SNP's domestic record in government, he added: "They should concentrate on doing a better job for the people of Scotland". READ MORE: ‘They'll hand fishing rights BACK to Brussels!’ - Boris warning of SNP threat
PMQs: Ian Blackford was told by Boris Johnson to 'concentrate on doing a better job in Scotland'
PMQs: Ian Blackford accused Boris Johnson of intimidating Donald Trump
12.10pm update: Boris Johnson attacks the SNP for trying to break up the 'most successful union in 300 years' The SNP's leader in the Commons, Ian Blackford, asked Boris johnson is he was "intentionally trying to impersonate Donald Trump". The nationalist claimed the Prime Minister has been protectionist in his plans for the future of the UK as part of his evidence for making the compassion. However, hitting back at Mr Blackford, the Conservative leader said: "I don't anybody who listened to my speech on Monday could mistake if for anything but the most passionate, internationalist, global, outward-looking approach. "There is only one party in this country that has 'nationalist' in their name. That's them. They would break up the most successful political partnership of the last 300 years." The Tory benches roared in approval of the Prime Minister's response - however, he appears to have made a small slip-up as the 'N' in SNP stands for "national" rather than "nationalist". 12.07pm update: Labour's criticism 'beyond satire' claims the Prime Minister After the Labour leader accused the Conservatives of "failing spectacularly" to measure up to the scale of the "climate crisis" the country is facing, Mr Johnson hit back with a full-throttle rebuttal. The Prime Minister accused Labour of being 'beyond satire' in its attacks on the Government's green record. He pointed out the UK is the only country in the world to commit to being carbon neutral by 2050. 12.04pm update: Jeremy Corbyn told by Boris Johnson Labour only produces 'hot air' While mentioning Brexit in his opening question, as he said he would continue to hold the Government to account during the EU trade negotiations, Mr Corbyn chose to focus on climate change for today's debate in the chamber. Mr Johnson replied by defending the Government's record, saying: "I think if you look at what this Government is achieving and what it has achieved it is quite phenomenal." Joking about his opposite number he said Mr Corbyn only ever produced "hot air".
PMQs: Johnson slams Corbyn over criticism of climate crisis
PMQs: Jeremy Corbyn barely mentioned Brexit in his questioning of Boris Johnson


thedailyexpress--2020-02-05--Brexit LIVE: French MEP savaged for ‘CAR CRASH’ Andrew Neil interview - ‘Staggering!’

French MEP Nathalie Loiseau appeared on the flagship show to shoot down hopes of the UK getting a Canada-style trade deal with the EU , as well as blast Mr Neil for claiming there are not any strikes in France anymore .
Her comments did not go down well with viewers , as one person tweeted : `` I just saw Andrew Neil destroy some ex French minister on his show . ''
Another person said : `` Andrew Neil just tore a French MEP a new one .
How arrogant and condescending .
Finger pointing air of suprioriority .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the nerve to say there were no strikes anymore in France . ''
A third tweeted : `` The arrogance of the french MEP talking to Andrew Neil about the Brexit trade talks on BBC 2 right now is absolutely staggering .
Screw the EU , we should aim for a no-deal . ''
Meanwhile , European Council President Charles Michel will set out preparatory discussions ahead of a summit to broker the EU 's budget between 2021-2027 .
Following the UK 's departure from the EU , Mr Michel is under pressure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be lost from the budget .
On the weekend , countries from Southern and Eastern Europe met to discuss how to restructure the budget post-Brexit .
Mr Michel will today meet with several European leaders and could clash with Dutch Prime Minister , Mark Rutte , who will represent a more frugal position to the raft of expensive new budget requirements .
Boris Johnson will now proceed with talks to establish a trade agreement with the EU now the transition period has begun .
However , this week the EU 's chief negotiator @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into 2021 .
In a speech on Monday , Mr Barnier said a deal could be agreed but there will be separate agreements which will need to be agreed the following year .
Brexit was also praised by Marine Le Pen who claimed the whole process represented a `` terrifying failure '' from the EU .
She said : `` The United Kingdom has finally regained its freedom .
`` Brexit is a terrifying failure for the European Union . ''
9.27pm update : Boris urged to bulk up Royal Navy to protect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ control !
’ Britons have urged the UK Government to protect British fishing vessels and bulk up the Royal Navy to safeguard UK trawlers , an Express.co.uk poll has found .
The poll , which was conducted from 3-8pm on February 5 , asked : “ Should Boris Johnson bulk up the Royal Navy to protect UK fishing rights ?
” 24,284 people responded to the survey , with 19,792 backing the Prime Minister to bulk up the Royal Navy .
Just 16 percent ( 3,958 people ) said no , with two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t know ” .
French fishermen have regained access to waters around Guernsey , French Agriculture Minister Didier Guillaume said on Wednesday , after a five-day ban due to post-Brexit administrative changes .
He said on Twitter : `` The first fishing authorisation has just been issued by Guernsey authorities .
On Tuesday he had said a solution to the problem would be found `` in the coming hours '' .
6.42pm update : EU looks to expand into Balkans after Brexit The EU has overhauled the process for joining the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` more credible '' for members .
EU President Ursula Von Der Leyen tweeted : “ Good message to our # WesternBalkans friends about EU enlargement process : Today the @ EU_Commission proposes a credible & dynamic plan paving the way for opening accession talks with North Macedonia & Albania ( ) .
EU enlargement is a WIN-WIN situation.
” 5.16pm update : Fianna Fail candidates ' inexperience deemed no obstacle to dealing with Brexit Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin has insisted his party has the candidates to lead Ireland through the next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's party has been in a confidence and supply arrangement with Fine Gael for the past four years .
Fine Gael has sought to make its role in Brexit negotiations a key part of its re-election strategy .
Speaking in Dublin on Wednesday , Mr Martin defended his candidates after Fine Gael leader Leo Varadkar said his `` Brexit team '' - including Simon Coveney and Helen McEntee - should remain in place .
Mr Martin said the experience of Mr Varadkar 's team in the first phase of Brexit talks does not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and cited his own role as a former foreign minister .
He said : `` Helen McEntee did not have experience before she became a minister for state .
There are many ministers in new governments who are ministers for the first time .
That is a natural phenomenon in politics .
`` I do n't buy that somehow Fine Gael are incredibly superior beings and everyone else is of an inferior quality . ''
He also said Sinn Fein ( SF ) policies do not `` hang together on a lot of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ SF 's financial proposals amount to `` funny money '' , and there is no way they can deliver a lot of what they are promising .
`` We are the only party which has detailed the costs of every promise , '' Mr Martin said .
`` As we come to the final days of this campaign , Fine Gael has still failed to provide the funding details for 80 % of its promises and Sinn Fein for 75 % of its promises , and I welcome last night 's debate because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more serious questions are arising about their promises . ''
Mr Martin said Fianna Fail would put more resources into education and added that he regretted education had not come up much during the campaign .
`` We want to reduce class sizes , have targeted support for special needs , and for disadvantaged schools .
We 're the only party which wants to tackle the funding emergency which is undermining our third level sector .
`` Education has been one of the passions of my public life .
It is the absolute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We need ... a commitment to making our education system more inclusive , to improving funding and supporting our teachers and lecturers . ''
4.09pm update : UK readies for fishing war as Boris swells Royal Navy sea patrols with 24 ships on standby Officials have hired extra ships to help the Royal Navy ’ s Fishery Protection Squadron ( FPS ) patrol the waters off the UK coast .
The move comes after Boris Johnson left Brussels in no doubt of the UK ’ s position when he declared : “ British @ @ @ @ @ @ @ British boats.
” The Portsmouth-based FPS fleet is currently made up of four River-class offshore patrol vessels and a helicopter .
Its ships patrol 80,000 square miles of sea off Britain protecting the country ’ s fishing rights .
Former Tory MEP , Daniel Hannan had insisted Mr Johnson will come out on top during the upcoming Brexit negotiations .
Mr Hannan said the UK should use the strategy used to sign a trade deal with Switzerland .
The UK and Switzerland signed a deal to continue trading after Brexit in February 2019 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how easy it is , we did exactly such a deal with Switzerland .
“ We covered free movement , financial services , free trade aviation , in five months.
” The former Brexit Party MEP responded to recent comments from Michel Barnier insisting his main priority was to protect EU citizens .
He said : `` Barnier again stressing his number one priority is protecting the European project and its citizens .
`` Full credit to him , he ran rings around May and her team .
`` It 's up to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as possible and represent the British interest and nothing else ! ''
In Prime Minister 's Question today , Boris Johnson once again issued his call to `` level up '' Britain following Brexit .
Despite criticism from Jeremy Corbyn , Mr Johnson defended his Government 's record for Brexit and beyond .
He said : `` I think if you look at what this Government is achieving and what it has achieved it is quite phenomenal . ''
According to data seen by Yahoo Finance UK , provided by Indeed , more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the UK 's exit from the EU .
At its peak , the number of roles mentioning Brexit rose from 25 per every million in September 2016 to 368 in October 2018 .
Bill Richards , managing director at Indeed , said : “ Britain may have left the European Union but our data shows companies are still busy preparing for potential impacts by hiring workers specifically with Brexit in mind.
” Former Brexit Party MEP for the West Midlands , Rupert Lowe has hit out at the EU and Remainers for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from claiming water prevents dehydration .
He said in a tweet : `` Here 's one for the Remainers .
In 2011 the EU banned bottled drink manufacturers from claiming that water prevents dehydration .
`` Two-year jail sentence if found 'guilty ' .
Thought it was us Brexiteers that were thick ?
Madness ! ''
French captains are threatening to torch British boats after being denied access to UK waters .
Following the UK 's departure from the EU on Friday , French trawlermen had their access to Guernsey 's waters `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU affairs minister Amelie de Montchalin last night said they should be able to access the waters around Guernsey by the end of next week as they work to implement the deal .
She said : `` We have a diplomatic agreement .
We received a formal letter from Her Majesty .
“ We have a political agreement , now we are in implementation.
” French campaigners have joined Brexit Party MEPs to celebrate the UK 's departure from the EU .
He said at the celebration : “ Brexit is a victory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it with you .
`` I really want to thank you because you showed to all of Europe .
So thank you .
According to The Guardian , the Foreign Office has issued a list of banned words to staff .
In the leaked memo , the words and phrases which are banned range from `` implementation period '' , `` no deal '' and `` special partnership '' .
The opening sentence of the memo says : `` Brexit is completed .
So do not use the term ‘ Brexit ’ , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place on 31 January 2020.
” Emmanuel Macron visited Poland this week - the first since he came to power in 2017 - where he declared his desire to strengthen ties with the country .
Mr Macron 's comments come in contrast to relations with the EU and Poland .
Poland has been put under rule of law proceedings following the country 's Law and Justice ( PiS ) party 's implementation of judicial reforms .
In the wake of the meeting , Poland 's prime minister , Mateusz Morawiecki , insisted : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the EU after Brexit is significantly growing.
” A funding row could be on the cards for the EU after countries from Southern and Eastern Europe met in Portugal to discuss the consequences of Brexit .
European Council President , Charles Michel will meet with European leaders today , including Dutch Prime Minister Marke Rutte to discuss the European budget .
Although some leaders will call for the budget to be inflated following the UK 's departure , Mr Rutte will represent countries who receive less than they pay in and will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increased budget .
With that in mind , Mr Rutte will call for a smaller budget than the one previously suggested by the European Commission .