thedailyexpress--2020-11-27--Don't you dare, Boris! MP issues major warning over Brexit mistake – 'We won't be free!'

British and EU negotiators are continuing face-to-face talks in London this weekend as both sides try to make a last-minute breakthrough with just over a month before the end of the Brexit transition period on December 31 .
Both sides are refusing to change their negotiating stances and significant gaps still remain in several areas , predominantly around fisheries and state aid .
Fears of a no-deal outcome intensified on Friday when the EU 's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier warned diplomats he still did not know if a post-Brexit trade deal could be agreed with the UK .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the chief whip of the Democratic Unionist Party ( DUP ) that his Withdrawal Agreement with the EU is `` fatally flawed '' .
Sammy Wilson warned the treaty agreed last year will leave the UK locked to EU rules and regulations in several areas , and would leave Northern Ireland in the single market that would see the country subject to all laws from Brussels .
The MP for East Antrim warned Mr Johnson if the same `` mess '' happens with the future trade deal currently being thrashed out with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be a free nation '' .
Writing for Politico , Mr Wilson said : `` Already it is clear that last year ’ s Withdrawal Agreement was fatally flawed .
`` It leaves Brussels and the European Court of Justice in charge of huge swathes of UK economic policy , future payments that the UK will have to make to the EU , settlements in future trade disputes and rules governing EU citizens living in the UK .
`` Crucially , it also splits the UK by placing Northern Ireland firmly within the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ territory and therefore subject to all future EU laws and regulations .
`` London is frantically trying to untangle the mess that this hastily agreed , badly thought-out and largely unscrutinised deal has created .
The same can ’ t be allowed to happen with the future trade deal that is now being finalised .
`` This deal will decide the shape of our relationship with the EU for decades to come .
If we get it wrong , we will not be a free nation .
`` We will find our economy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by continued interference from Brussels . ''
He continued : `` Any deal brought by back by Prime Minister Boris Johnson should be judged by whether it fulfils the promise made during the Brexit referendum campaign to “ take back control ” .
`` That includes control of our laws , money , trade and fishing waters .
It also means that the UK must be kept out of the EU single market and customs union , and that there should be no role for the ECJ in deciding the meaning or application @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Wilson is becoming increasingly concerned about the future of Northern Ireland and exactly what position the country will be left in once the UK does begin life outside the EU on January 1 , 2021 .
DO N'T MISS Let 's leave NOW !
Brexiteers urge Boris Johnson to walk away [ COMMENT ] Brexit deal UP TO THE EU says Britain as anger mounts over Brussels [ LATEST ] This botched Brexit meekly hands control to Brussels BEN HABIB [ OPINION ] He claimed it is pointless making claims of regaining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back control `` if we leave one part of the UK inside the EU '' .
The DUP 's chief whip warned this would abandon a key element of the Good Friday Agreement that would have `` implications for national sovereignty right across the UK '' .
Mr Wilson said : “ As a Northern Ireland MP , my primary concern in agreeing to any EU-U.K. deal is : Does the whole country exit the transition period as one United Kingdom ?
“ There is no point in claiming that we are regaining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taking back control if we leave one part of the U.K. inside the EU .
“ Apart from breaking trust with the people of Northern Ireland and abandoning the central premise of the Good Friday agreement — that Northern Ireland would remain part of the UK as long as its people choose to do so — leaving Northern Ireland subject to EU laws has implications for national sovereignty right across the UK .
`` If we allow this to happen , Northern Ireland would be the EU ’ s foot in the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that benefitted businesses based in England , Scotland or Wales could be challenged by Brussels on the basis that if those firms traded , or potentially might trade , in Northern Ireland they might have an advantage over EU firms .
“ That is why the Withdrawal Agreement was so important to the EU .
And that is why the question of whether the future trade deal applies to the whole country — and whether every part of the UK leaves the EU on the same terms — is so important .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that make up the UK goes to the very heart of the Acts of Union .
“ It would be inconceivable that the government would agree to any deal that meant that trade between the countries of the UK would be disrupted in order apply and collect EU taxes or apply restrictive EU regulations . ''
Mr Wilson also warned if the whole of the UK does not leave the EU together , more than half of laws affecting daily life in Northern Ireland would be made in Brussels and not Westminster , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no man ’ s land '' .
He concluded : `` If the whole country does not leave the EU as one , many laws made in Westminster will not apply to Northern Ireland if they conflict with EU laws .
`` This will include laws relating to employment , professional standards , the environment , building control and product standards .
Laws covering 60 percent or more of life in Northern Ireland will be made in Brussels rather than London .
`` Such a situation would leave our part of the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ land .
`` That is not taking back control .
That is abandoning the citizens of our own country . ''

Brexit: Sunak says UK is prepared regardless of trade deal
British and EU negotiators are continuing face-to-face talks in London this weekend as both sides try to make a last-minute breakthrough with just over a month before the end of the Brexit transition period on December 31. Both sides are refusing to change their negotiating stances and significant gaps still remain in several areas, predominantly around fisheries and state aid. Fears of a no-deal outcome intensified on Friday when the EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier warned diplomats he still did not know if a post-Brexit trade deal could be agreed with the UK.
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But now the Prime Minister has been told by the chief whip of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) that his Withdrawal Agreement with the EU is "fatally flawed". Sammy Wilson warned the treaty agreed last year will leave the UK locked to EU rules and regulations in several areas, and would leave Northern Ireland in the single market that would see the country subject to all laws from Brussels. The MP for East Antrim warned Mr Johnson if the same "mess" happens with the future trade deal currently being thrashed out with the EU, "we will not be a free nation". Writing for Politico, Mr Wilson said: "Already it is clear that last year’s Withdrawal Agreement was fatally flawed.
Brexit news: Boris Johnson has been sent a huge warning over a future deal with the EU
Brexit news: Boris Johnson has insisted the UK will 'take back control'
"It leaves Brussels and the European Court of Justice in charge of huge swathes of UK economic policy, future payments that the UK will have to make to the EU, settlements in future trade disputes and rules governing EU citizens living in the UK. "Crucially, it also splits the UK by placing Northern Ireland firmly within the EU single-market part of the EU customs territory and therefore subject to all future EU laws and regulations. "London is frantically trying to untangle the mess that this hastily agreed, badly thought-out and largely unscrutinised deal has created. The same can’t be allowed to happen with the future trade deal that is now being finalised. "This deal will decide the shape of our relationship with the EU for decades to come. If we get it wrong, we will not be a free nation. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: Boris calls Barnier's bluff as UK ignores no-deal threat
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Brexit nerws: Sammy Wilson has sent a huge warning to Boris Johnson
"We will find our economy slowly strangled and our parliamentary sovereignty shackled by continued interference from Brussels." He continued: "Any deal brought by back by Prime Minister Boris Johnson should be judged by whether it fulfils the promise made during the Brexit referendum campaign to “take back control”. "That includes control of our laws, money, trade and fishing waters. It also means that the UK must be kept out of the EU single market and customs union, and that there should be no role for the ECJ in deciding the meaning or application of laws in the UK." Mr Wilson is becoming increasingly concerned about the future of Northern Ireland and exactly what position the country will be left in once the UK does begin life outside the EU on January 1, 2021. DON'T MISS
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This botched Brexit meekly hands control to Brussels BEN HABIB [OPINION]
Brexit news: The DUP's chi9ef whip fears northerland Ireland will be tied to EU rules
Brexit news: Trade talks are continuing between the UK and EU
He claimed it is pointless making claims of regaining sovereignty as an independent country and taking back control "if we leave one part of the UK inside the EU". The DUP's chief whip warned this would abandon a key element of the Good Friday Agreement that would have "implications for national sovereignty right across the UK". Mr Wilson said: “As a Northern Ireland MP, my primary concern in agreeing to any EU-U.K. deal is: Does the whole country exit the transition period as one United Kingdom? “There is no point in claiming that we are regaining our sovereignty as an independent country and taking back control if we leave one part of the U.K. inside the EU. “Apart from breaking trust with the people of Northern Ireland and abandoning the central premise of the Good Friday agreement — that Northern Ireland would remain part of the UK as long as its people choose to do so — leaving Northern Ireland subject to EU laws has implications for national sovereignty right across the UK.
Brexit news: The EU is edging closer to leaving the EU on December 31
"If we allow this to happen, Northern Ireland would be the EU’s foot in the UK door. “Any UK economic policies that benefitted businesses based in England, Scotland or Wales could be challenged by Brussels on the basis that if those firms traded, or potentially might trade, in Northern Ireland they might have an advantage over EU firms. “That is why the Withdrawal Agreement was so important to the EU. And that is why the question of whether the future trade deal applies to the whole country — and whether every part of the UK leaves the EU on the same terms — is so important. "Any difference in treatment of the nations that make up the UK goes to the very heart of the Acts of Union. “It would be inconceivable that the government would agree to any deal that meant that trade between the countries of the UK would be disrupted in order apply and collect EU taxes or apply restrictive EU regulations."


thedailyexpress--2020-11-27--Done by Monday? Brexit deal to be struck in days as Barnier orders EU to cave in on fish

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A Brexit deal between the UK and EU could be done by Monday , according to the Italian Ambassador to UK .
Speaking to Kay Burley on Sky News this morning , Raffaele Trombetta said that `` in these next few days , the two teams can reach an agreement '' .
This follows suggestions last week that an agreement between the two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Burley said : `` It 's just around the corner , this transition period ending .
`` How confident are you that the EU will be able to do a deal with the UK ? ''
Mr Trombetta responded : `` We do hope that there will be a deal .
It 's in the interests of both the EU and the UK .
`` Ursula von der Leyen was talking to the European Parliament the other day and she said that progress has been made in the last few days . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
Brexiteers urge Boris Johnson to walk away

Brexit: Italian ambassador predicts deal to come ‘within days’
A Brexit deal between the UK and EU could be done by Monday, according to the Italian Ambassador to UK. Speaking to Kay Burley on Sky News this morning, Raffaele Trombetta said that "in these next few days, the two teams can reach an agreement". This follows suggestions last week that an agreement between the two sides was 95 percent completed.
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Ms Burley said: "It's just around the corner, this transition period ending. "How confident are you that the EU will be able to do a deal with the UK?" Mr Trombetta responded: "We do hope that there will be a deal. It's in the interests of both the EU and the UK. "Ursula von der Leyen was talking to the European Parliament the other day and she said that progress has been made in the last few days." JUST IN: Let's leave NOW! Brexiteers urge Boris Johnson to walk away
A Brexit deal between the UK and EU could be done by Monday, according to the Italian Ambassador
Raffaele Trombetta said that 'in these next few days, the two teams can reach an agreement'
He added: "There are outstanding issues - the ones we know like a level-playing field, governance, and fisheries. "But, I do hope that in these next few days, the two teams can reach an agreement. "There is not much time, as we know, but with effort, I hope and I trust that we can reach an agreement." This comes amid claims that Brussels’ chief negotiator Michel Barnier will demand an EU compromise on fisheries later today.
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Brexit: Sunak says UK is prepared regardless of trade deal
Brussels’ chief negotiator Michel Barnier will demand an EU compromise on fisheries later today
Mr Barnier will hold showdown talks with eight EU fisheries ministers on Friday, amid growing hopes of a Brexit breakthrough. He is expected to tell the ministers that a concession in the row over future access to British waters is needed to secure a deal. However, France remains stubborn on access to British waters, with the member-state suggesting that Mr Barnier is being too easy on Britain. DON'T MISS: Sturgeon shamed over SNP's plot to rush through independence [VIDEO]
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Barnier is expected to travel to London to resume face-to-face Brexit trade talks this weekend


thedailyexpress--2020-11-28--Brexiteer warns of major EU plot to ‘hamstring’ UK to its rules - fishing a ‘red herring’

Tory MP Andrew Bridgen claimed fishing - which has proved one of the biggest sticking points in negotiations between Britain and Brussels - is a distraction .
The Brexiteer warned the EU will drop the issue and instead demand a compromise on the so-called level playing field , aimed at preventing unfair competition by cutting standards or increasing state subsidies .
Mr Bridgen tweeted : “ Despite Macron ’ s faux rage , the fish issue is a Red Herring and will be ditched at the last minute , the EU will ask the UK to compromise on what they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ‘ level playing field ’ .
“ This would hamstring the UK forever with EU regulations .
“ We must not surrender our red lines.
” Mr Bridgen 's warning comes as face-to-face negotiations between chief negotiators Lord Frost and Michel Barnier are due to continue in London on Saturday .
Ahead of the talks , Lord Frost insisted a deal is still possible but only if Brussels recognised British sovereignty in key areas .
He tweeted : `` Some people are asking me why we are still talking .
“ My answer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do my utmost to see if the conditions for a deal exist .
“ It is late , but a deal is still possible , and I will continue to talk until it 's clear that it is n't .
READ MORE : Lord Frost erupts with stern Brexit warning to EU '' But for a deal to be possible it must fully respect UK sovereignty .
“ That is not just a word - it has practical consequences .
“ That includes : controlling our borders ; deciding ourselves on a robust @ @ @ @ @ @ @ controlling our fishing waters .
`` We look to reach an agreement on this basis , allowing the new beginning to our relationship with the EU which , for our part , we have always wanted .
DO N'T MISS Boris Johnson blows EU fisheries compromise out of the water [ INSIGHT ] Remainers ' Project Fear is back on the attack [ COMMENT ] Boris Johnson orders Barnier to compromise in Brexit talks [ ANALYSIS ]

PMQs: Boris Johnson says EU must ‘accept reality’ on fishing
Tory MP Andrew Bridgen claimed fishing - which has proved one of the biggest sticking points in negotiations between Britain and Brussels - is a distraction. The Brexiteer warned the EU will drop the issue and instead demand a compromise on the so-called level playing field, aimed at preventing unfair competition by cutting standards or increasing state subsidies.
Mr Bridgen tweeted: “Despite Macron’s faux rage, the fish issue is a Red Herring and will be ditched at the last minute, the EU will ask the UK to compromise on what they really want which is the so called ‘level playing field’. “This would hamstring the UK forever with EU regulations. “We must not surrender our red lines.” Mr Bridgen's warning comes as face-to-face negotiations between chief negotiators Lord Frost and Michel Barnier are due to continue in London on Saturday.
Fishing is a “red herring” in post-Brexit trade talks, a Conservative MP has warned
The Brexiteer warned the EU will drop the issue of fishing and instead demand a compromise on the so-called level playing field
Ahead of the talks, Lord Frost insisted a deal is still possible but only if Brussels recognised British sovereignty in key areas. He tweeted: "Some people are asking me why we are still talking. “My answer is that it's my job to do my utmost to see if the conditions for a deal exist. “It is late, but a deal is still possible, and I will continue to talk until it's clear that it isn't. READ MORE: Lord Frost erupts with stern Brexit warning to EU
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Despite Macron’s faux rage,the fish issue is a Red Herring and will be ditched at the last minute, the EU will ask the UK to compromise on what they really want which is the so called “level playing field”. This would hamstring the U.K. forever with EU regulations. — Andrew Bridgen (@ABridgen) November 27, 2020
"But for a deal to be possible it must fully respect UK sovereignty. “That is not just a word - it has practical consequences. “That includes: controlling our borders; deciding ourselves on a robust and principled subsidy control system; and controlling our fishing waters. "We look to reach an agreement on this basis, allowing the new beginning to our relationship with the EU which, for our part, we have always wanted. DON'T MISS
Boris Johnson blows EU fisheries compromise out of the water [INSIGHT]
Remainers' Project Fear is back on the attack [COMMENT]
Boris Johnson orders Barnier to compromise in Brexit talks [ANALYSIS]
Mr Bridgen insisted the UK "must not surrender our red lines"
Mr Bridgen's warning comes as face-to-face negotiations between chief negotiators Lord Frost and Michel Barnier are due to continue in London on Saturday
"We will continue to work hard to get it - because an agreement on any other basis is not possible." Lord Frost’s comments came after EU chief negotiator Mr Barnier warned “significant divergences” remain between the two sides. Face-to-face negotiations in Brussels were suspended a week ago after a member of Mr Barnier's team contracted coronavirus. But the bloc’s chief negotiator has now said "physical negotiations" can resume.
European fishing dependence on British waters
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thedailyexpress--2020-11-28--'Scandalous' Von der Leyen issued urgent warning about rushing through Brexit deal

Nicolas Bay , general secretary of the right-wing National Rally party led by Marine Le Pen , also claimed the amount of power residing in the Commission - which is effectively the EU 's governing body - was `` absolutely absurd '' , and highlighted the need for dramatic reforms .
Mr Bay was speaking in the wake of widespread reports - including on Sky News - suggesting the Commission was ready to cut corners in the event of a deal being struck between EU negotiator Michel Barnier and UK counterpart Lord David Frost to implement it by the end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and member states .
He told Express.co.uk : `` I can ’ t believe the Commission could conclude this agreement without having it ratified by the states .
`` The mere fact that this is being considered would already be absolutely scandalous .
`` It is obvious that , in general , the European Commission should systematically refer matters to the Council and to the states instead of acting alone . ''
He told Express.co.uk : `` I can ’ t believe the Commission could conclude this agreement without having it ratified by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that this is being considered would already be absolutely scandalous .
`` It is obvious that , in general , the European Commission should systematically refer matters to the Council and to the states instead of acting alone . ''
JUST IN : 'Embarrassment for EU ! '
Verhofstadt sparks backlash after Orban tweet He explained : `` We recently saw , within the framework of the agreement with the Latin American countries of Mercosur , the limits of this method : the states rightly felt seriously injured on the agricultural aspect and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Commission , which wanted to conclude it at all costs , was buried .
`` Naturally , in the case of Brexit , the stakes and the political importance of this agreement are such that the Commission ’ s ambitions for independence appear all the more worrying . ''
Mr Bay also said the amount of power which lays in the hands of unelected bureaucrats in Brussels was `` perhaps the most serious flaw of the EU today '' and `` the greatest threat to the sovereignty of the member states '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit plot after Barnier 's update [ EXCLUSIVE ] Brexit fury : Theresa May 's errors risk leaving UK 'under EU control ' [ ANALYSIS ] Pound euro exchange rate falls 'flat ' [ FORECAST ] He added : `` We see the trend towards centralisation and harmonisation in many areas , to the detriment of the political , diplomatic and economic interests of most member states .
`` The Commission is strengthening its powers and seeking to cut corners in all areas where states should nevertheless be sovereign , as stipulated in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Brussels is playing on the frustration of the European Parliament , which knows itself to be the poor relation of the EU . ''
In order to strengthen itself , the Commission never hesitated to use the Parliament against the European Council , stirring up rivalry between the institutions , claimed Mr Bay .
The consequences of such an approach could be seen with what Mr Bay described as the `` blockage '' on the European budget and the recovery plan by Hungary and Poland , which are threatening to veto the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's investigation into controversial legal reforms in both countries .
He said : `` The Parliament requires the Council to set up a conditionality mechanism for European funds to respect the rule of law , which is extremely dangerous and unacceptable to some states .
`` Parliament is obviously guided by the Commission , which sees this as a way for it to be able to punish recalcitrant states . ''
Mr Bay concluded : `` The EU must be fully reformed and the Commission put back in its place , that of @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Barnier ‘laughing at Brexit negotiations’ says Widdecombe
Nicolas Bay, general secretary of the right-wing National Rally party led by Marine Le Pen, also claimed the amount of power residing in the Commission - which is effectively the EU's governing body - was "absolutely absurd", and highlighted the need for dramatic reforms. Mr Bay was speaking in the wake of widespread reports - including on Sky News - suggesting the Commission was ready to cut corners in the event of a deal being struck between EU negotiator Michel Barnier and UK counterpart Lord David Frost to implement it by the end of the year - bypassing the Parliament and member states.
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He told Express.co.uk: "I can’t believe the Commission could conclude this agreement without having it ratified by the states. "The mere fact that this is being considered would already be absolutely scandalous. "It is obvious that, in general, the European Commission should systematically refer matters to the Council and to the states instead of acting alone."
Nicolas Bay has told Ursula von der Leyen it would be "scandalous" to rush a deal through
EU negotiator Michel Barnier
He told Express.co.uk: "I can’t believe the Commission could conclude this agreement without having it ratified by the states. "The mere fact that this is being considered would already be absolutely scandalous. "It is obvious that, in general, the European Commission should systematically refer matters to the Council and to the states instead of acting alone." JUST IN: 'Embarrassment for EU!' Verhofstadt sparks backlash after Orban tweet
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Marine Le Pen, the leader of the right-wing National Rally party, formerly the National Front
He explained: "We recently saw, within the framework of the agreement with the Latin American countries of Mercosur, the limits of this method: the states rightly felt seriously injured on the agricultural aspect and the agreement negotiated for years by the Commission, which wanted to conclude it at all costs, was buried. "Naturally, in the case of Brexit, the stakes and the political importance of this agreement are such that the Commission’s ambitions for independence appear all the more worrying." Mr Bay also said the amount of power which lays in the hands of unelected bureaucrats in Brussels was "perhaps the most serious flaw of the EU today" and "the greatest threat to the sovereignty of the member states". DON'T MISS
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Marine Le Pen and Nicolas Bay pictured together
UK negotiator Lord David Frost
He added: "We see the trend towards centralisation and harmonisation in many areas, to the detriment of the political, diplomatic and economic interests of most member states. "The Commission is strengthening its powers and seeking to cut corners in all areas where states should nevertheless be sovereign, as stipulated in the treaties. "And, cleverly, Brussels is playing on the frustration of the European Parliament, which knows itself to be the poor relation of the EU." In order to strengthen itself, the Commission never hesitated to use the Parliament against the European Council, stirring up rivalry between the institutions, claimed Mr Bay.
Trade negotiations factfile
The consequences of such an approach could be seen with what Mr Bay described as the "blockage" on the European budget and the recovery plan by Hungary and Poland, which are threatening to veto the whole proposal in protest at the EU's investigation into controversial legal reforms in both countries. He said: "The Parliament requires the Council to set up a conditionality mechanism for European funds to respect the rule of law, which is extremely dangerous and unacceptable to some states. "Parliament is obviously guided by the Commission, which sees this as a way for it to be able to punish recalcitrant states." Mr Bay concluded: "The EU must be fully reformed and the Commission put back in its place, that of a mere secretariat implementing Council decisions.
Viktor Orban's Hungary is at loggerheads with Brussels


thedailyexpress--2020-11-28--Boris issued warning shot as Nicola Sturgeon outlines how she plans to secure independence

Opening the SNP ’ s annual conference today amid the Coronavirus pandemic , Nicola Sturgeon stressed Scotland was ready to demonstrate its position on the world stage as an independent country .
Ms Sturgeon said Scotland was on the “ cusp of making history ” as she hinted a second vote could take place as early as next year .
But Boris Johnson has insisted he will not hand her the power to hold a vote , even if the SNP wins a majority in next May ’ s Holyrood election .
Leader of the House of the Commons Jacob @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” had weakened the UK Parliament and “ helped to divide the United Kingdom.
” Speaking in the Commons , Mr Rees-Mogg , said : “ The last Labour Government decided to take a wrecking ball to our constitution and made a bit of a muddle with it.
” He said some of their most “ foolish interventions ” were their “ constitutional blunders ” on creating the Scottish Parliament in 1999 .
He concluded : “ I hope that this Government find an effective way of restoring our constitution to its proper @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ The question for all of us as we look ahead to the election next May is this : who should be taking the decisions that will shape our futures ?
“ We know that it is the people who live here , wherever they come from , who can best harness Scotland ’ s immense human and natural resources to the benefit of everyone.
” She made clear this weekend and over the next few months - “ let us reach out – to all of Scotland – like never before.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – with cool heads and with patient persuasion – that Scotland is ready to take its place in the global family of independent nations .
“ Scotland is now a nation on the cusp of making history .
`` Independence is in clear sight – and with unity of purpose , humility and hard work I have never been so certain that we will deliver it.
” Ms Sturgeon stressed the people of Scotland had the right to choose their future , and concluded : “ Let ’ s now focus all our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that better country they and future generations deserve .
She added the primary focus was to eliminate “ COVID-19 from our shores ” – for which we have renewed hope – Scotland must be ready for what comes next .
And I know we will be .
But last night , opposition members said instead of focusing on independence , the First Minister of Scotland to apologise for “ broken promises to the people of Scotland ” .
DO N'T MISS : Sturgeon faces backlash from own members as SNP divided over indy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over Brexit plans to keep Scotland tied to EU [ INSIGHT ] Nicola Sturgeon UNDERMINED Brexit talks , fumes Michael Gove [ REVEAL ] Ian Murray MP , Shadow Scottish Secretary , said : “ She is leading a government that is treating Holyrood with contempt , refusing to be transparent with voters .
“ As her supporters gather to pat themselves on the back , hundreds of skilled workers are facing unemployment after the nationalists abandoned the green industrial jobs they pledged to protect .
“ And the Scottish Government ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in test and trace failures , cover-ups , care home scandals , a litany of education failings , and a death rate that is among the worst in Europe .
“ When she takes to the stage , Nicola Sturgeon should apologise for her broken promises to the people of Scotland.
” Scottish Conservative constitution representative Dean Lockhart , said : “ It is clear where the priorities lie for the SNP ahead of their conference- another divisive independence referendum .
“ Constant talk of another independence is completely reckless.
” Anas Sarwar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , added : “ This proves that Nicola Sturgeon only has one priority – dividing the people of Scotland.
” A total of 14 opinion polls since June have suggested a majority now favour Scottish independence , with 54 to 55 per cent backing Yes on average .
These polls have also suggested Prime Minister Boris Johnson ’ s unpopularity north of the Border and Brexit increasing level of support for independence .
Pamela Nash , chief executive of Scotland in Union , said : “ Issuing a rallying cry for independence when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ devastating impact of the pandemic is therefore deeply insulting .
“ This weekend , the SNP is only talking to itself – not to the country .
“ Seeking to divide us with another referendum is the wrong priority , and it is not the priority of the people of Scotland.
” This weekend 's SNP conference has been marred by division on key issues including the debate on independence referendum strategy , with suggestions already put forward to have a “ Plan B ” option for a vote .
In a lecture @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spokesperson and lawyer Joanna Cherry called for Holyrood to hold a second independence referendum without agreement .
Speaking last night , the QC and MP said : “ It is my view that if the pro-independence referendum parties obtain a majority at the Scottish election next year and the PM refuses to come to the table to negotiate a second Edinburgh Agreement , the avenue which the FM contemplated earlier this year should be pursued.
” She stressed it “ would require a carefully crafted bill to be piloted through Holyrood '' and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ challenge '' .

Nicola Sturgeon has let ‘power go to head’ says Iain Duncan Smith
Opening the SNP’s annual conference today amid the Coronavirus pandemic, Nicola Sturgeon stressed Scotland was ready to demonstrate its position on the world stage as an independent country. Ms Sturgeon said Scotland was on the “cusp of making history” as she hinted a second vote could take place as early as next year.
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But Boris Johnson has insisted he will not hand her the power to hold a vote, even if the SNP wins a majority in next May’s Holyrood election. Leader of the House of the Commons Jacob Rees-Mogg also said “Blairite constitutional tinkering” had weakened the UK Parliament and “helped to divide the United Kingdom.” Speaking in the Commons, Mr Rees-Mogg, said: “The last Labour Government decided to take a wrecking ball to our constitution and made a bit of a muddle with it.” He said some of their most “foolish interventions” were their “constitutional blunders” on creating the Scottish Parliament in 1999. He concluded: “I hope that this Government find an effective way of restoring our constitution to its proper form.”
Nicola Sturgeon addressed the SNP conference
Boris Johnson said a second vote would not take place
But Ms Sturgeon said: “The question for all of us as we look ahead to the election next May is this: who should be taking the decisions that will shape our futures? “We know that it is the people who live here, wherever they come from, who can best harness Scotland’s immense human and natural resources to the benefit of everyone.” She made clear this weekend and over the next few months - “let us reach out – to all of Scotland – like never before.” She continued: “Let us demonstrate – with cool heads and with patient persuasion – that Scotland is ready to take its place in the global family of independent nations. “Scotland is now a nation on the cusp of making history. READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon SETS DATE for independence referendum
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The SNP conference is taking place this weekend
"Independence is in clear sight – and with unity of purpose, humility and hard work I have never been so certain that we will deliver it.” Ms Sturgeon stressed the people of Scotland had the right to choose their future, and concluded: “Let’s now focus all our efforts on making sure we bring about that better country they and future generations deserve. “An independent future lies ahead - lets grasp it.” She added the primary focus was to eliminate “COVID-19 from our shores” – for which we have renewed hope – Scotland must be ready for what comes next. And I know we will be. But last night, opposition members said instead of focusing on independence, the First Minister of Scotland to apologise for “broken promises to the people of Scotland”. DON'T MISS:
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Nicola Sturgeon: Referendum should be 'earlier rather than later'
Ian Murray MP, Shadow Scottish Secretary, said: “She is leading a government that is treating Holyrood with contempt, refusing to be transparent with voters. “As her supporters gather to pat themselves on the back, hundreds of skilled workers are facing unemployment after the nationalists abandoned the green industrial jobs they pledged to protect. “And the Scottish Government’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic has resulted in test and trace failures, cover-ups, care home scandals, a litany of education failings, and a death rate that is among the worst in Europe. “When she takes to the stage, Nicola Sturgeon should apologise for her broken promises to the people of Scotland.” Scottish Conservative constitution representative Dean Lockhart, said: “It is clear where the priorities lie for the SNP ahead of their conference- another divisive independence referendum.
Support for Scottish independence sits at 55 percent
“Constant talk of another independence is completely reckless.” Anas Sarwar MSP, Scottish Labour's Constitution spokesperson, added: “This proves that Nicola Sturgeon only has one priority – dividing the people of Scotland.” A total of 14 opinion polls since June have suggested a majority now favour Scottish independence, with 54 to 55 per cent backing Yes on average. These polls have also suggested Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s unpopularity north of the Border and Brexit increasing level of support for independence. Pamela Nash, chief executive of Scotland in Union, said: “Issuing a rallying cry for independence when people across Scotland are struggling with the devastating impact of the pandemic is therefore deeply insulting.
Support for independence was highest at 58 percent


thedailyexpress--2020-11-28--Brexit victory! Fishing agreement close as EU to accept UK sovereignty over British waters

The EU side have accepted a proposal to have a transition period on fishing rights in the new year .
However , there has so far been no agreement on when the period should end or how it will work .
The fishing transition period would allow the UK to catch its increased quota .
It would also give the EU more time to prepare for receiving a smaller share of the fish from British waters .
Government figures reportedly think this compromise is a sign that the EU will give in to other demands from the UK on fishing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in London .
The EU ’ s chief negotiator , Michel Barnier , arrived in London on Friday ahead of the negotiations .
Before his arrival , Mr Barnier wrote on Twitter that the “ same significant divergences persist ” in Brexit talks .
His UK counterpart , Lord David Frost , also took to Twitter on Friday to admit “ it is late ” to be negotiating for a deal .
However , Lord Frost added : “ A deal is still possible , and I will continue to talk until it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t .
“ But for a deal to be possible it must fully respect UK sovereignty .
“ That is not just a word - it has practical consequences .
That includes : controlling our borders ; deciding ourselves on a robust and principled subsidy control system ; and controlling our fishing waters .
READ MORE : Michel Barnier to back down in Brexit bluff on fishing demands “ We are working off the same grid but there is no agreement on what should be in the grid and we could still end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Lord Frost proposed a transition period of up to three years .
But the EU reportedly want a much longer period .
Sources have estimated that the EU are demanding at least ten years , according to The Telegraph .
Fisheries arrangements between the UK and EU for after 1 January have been one of the largest barriers in Brexit trade deal talks .

Brexit: EU 'will need to compromise on fisheries' says Benn
The EU side have accepted a proposal to have a transition period on fishing rights in the new year. However, there has so far been no agreement on when the period should end or how it will work.
Trending
The fishing transition period would allow the UK to catch its increased quota. It would also give the EU more time to prepare for receiving a smaller share of the fish from British waters. Government figures reportedly think this compromise is a sign that the EU will give in to other demands from the UK on fishing in the next week of intensive talks in London.
The EU’s chief negotiator, Michel Barnier, arrived in London on Friday ahead of the negotiations. Before his arrival, Mr Barnier wrote on Twitter that the “same significant divergences persist” in Brexit talks.
A Brexit agreement on fishing could come soon according to reports
Michel Barnier said the “same significant divergences persist” in Brexit talks
His UK counterpart, Lord David Frost, also took to Twitter on Friday to admit “it is late” to be negotiating for a deal. However, Lord Frost added: “A deal is still possible, and I will continue to talk until it’s clear that it isn’t. “But for a deal to be possible it must fully respect UK sovereignty. “That is not just a word - it has practical consequences. That includes: controlling our borders; deciding ourselves on a robust and principled subsidy control system; and controlling our fishing waters. READ MORE: Michel Barnier to back down in Brexit bluff on fishing demands
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Michel Barnier arrived in London on Friday ahead of the negotiations
David Frost admitted “it is late” to be negotiating for a deal
“We are working off the same grid but there is no agreement on what should be in the grid and we could still end up ditching the grid.” In September, Lord Frost proposed a transition period of up to three years. But the EU reportedly want a much longer period. Sources have estimated that the EU are demanding at least ten years, according to The Telegraph. Fisheries arrangements between the UK and EU for after 1 January have been one of the largest barriers in Brexit trade deal talks.
Brexit timeline


thedailyexpress--2020-11-28--Michel Barnier to back down in Brexit bluff on fishing demands and offer UK 'compromise'

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The Chair of the Committee on the Future Relationship with the EU told Sky News that countries like France and the Netherlands could suffer if there is no deal reached on fishing .
He added that a no deal Brexit is a bad outcome for the European Union .
Mr Benn said : `` I have always thought that it was possible to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ From the European Union point of view and those countries such as France , Netherlands , who have a great interest , if there is no agreement then they could lose access to British waters which they have fished in for a long period of time .
`` So for them , the choice is no deal which is a really bad outcome and a deal in which there is some compromise .
`` Because we know it will take time for the British fishing fleet to build up to catch the fish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MORE : Barnier heads to London 'exasperated and impatient ' with Brexit talks

Brexit: EU 'will need to compromise on fisheries' says Benn
The Chair of the Committee on the Future Relationship with the EU told Sky News that countries like France and the Netherlands could suffer if there is no deal reached on fishing. He added that a no deal Brexit is a bad outcome for the European Union.
Trending
Mr Benn said: "I have always thought that it was possible to reach an agreement on fisheries. "From the European Union point of view and those countries such as France, Netherlands, who have a great interest, if there is no agreement then they could lose access to British waters which they have fished in for a long period of time. "So for them, the choice is no deal which is a really bad outcome and a deal in which there is some compromise. "Because we know it will take time for the British fishing fleet to build up to catch the fish that are in our waters. READ MORE: Barnier heads to London 'exasperated and impatient' with Brexit talks
Michel Barnier is the European Union's chief Brexit negotiator
Brexit news: The countries most reliant on Britain's fishing waters
"Fisheries is a very complex issue but that is the harsh choice that is facing the EU." He continued: "In the end, we all know that to get a deal a compromise will be required. "It is not about Brexit, we have left the EU. "This is about if a deal can be done to make the impact of Brexit which will be bad for the economy slightly less bad than it will be."
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Brexit: UK 'can strike a deal if EU moves on fishing' says expert
European fishing dependence on British waters


thedailyexpress--2020-11-27--SNP branded ‘LUDICROUS’ over four-day week plans 'costing £2.5billion'

On Monday , Scottish finance minister Kate Forbes is expected to call on the Scottish Government to undertake a review of working practices , “ including the possibility of a four-day working week ” .
The Scottish Conservatives claim delivering the plan without cutting staff salaries or services would cost £2.5 billion , including £1.5 billion for the NHS .
Additionally , schools would require an extra £430 million , Police Scotland an extra £431 million , the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service an additional £108 million and Scottish Prison Service a further £43 million , the Tories said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ only the starting point - because there would be extra costs involved for all public services , including civil servants running the Scottish Government .
In a press release Maurice Golden MSP , the Scottish Conservative economy spokesman , said : “ This ludicrous SNP plan would blow a £2.5 billion pound hole in the Scottish Budget every year .
“ Pushing ahead with this nonsense would mean choosing between shutting public services or finding billions of pounds extra to keep our schools , hospitals and emergency services operating at the same capacity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the SNP need to explain this cavalier approach and tell the public if their preference is to inflict savage cuts on public services or force us to put up with a four-day school system and hurt the NHS .
“ This is right up there with all the fantasy nationalist plans to freely print money and use whatever currency they fancy .
SNP ministers clearly don ’ t live in the real world.
” The proposal is set to be debated at this weekend 's virtual SNP conference .
In May , Nicola @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” a four-day working week as the country adapts to life after lockdown .
READ MORE : Nicola Sturgeon outlines how she plans to secure independence She urged employers to avoid falling back into “ old and bad ways of doing things ” as the economy recovers from the pandemic .
SNP MSP George Adam fired back at the Scottish Tories , describing them as “ well out of step ” with the views of voters .
He said : “ Once again the Tories are well out of step with the views @ @ @ @ @ @ @ poll found that 70 per cent would back a four-day working week .
`` The idea of a four-day week is one that is currently gaining momentum across the globe as we look to rebuild a different economy that is fit for the future .
DO N'T MISS : Sturgeon shamed as Scotland ’ s Covid death rate prompts questions [ INSIGHT ] No10 ‘ hatches plot ’ to destroy Sturgeon ’ s independence campaign [ REVEAL ] Nicola Sturgeon to walk away from SNP without path to independence [ LATEST ] '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ progressive policies like this as we look to improve the lives of people in Scotland and support our economic recovery in the coming years .
`` The SNP wo n't be taking any lectures on workers ' rights from the party who opposed the minimum wage and now want to scrap the 48-hour limit on a working week . ''
Boris Johnson has also faced calls to introduce a four-day working week from Labour MPs .
They say it will help the country 's economic recovery and the public ’ s mental health @

Nicola Sturgeon has let ‘power go to head’ says Iain Duncan Smith
On Monday, Scottish finance minister Kate Forbes is expected to call on the Scottish Government to undertake a review of working practices, “including the possibility of a four-day working week”. The Scottish Conservatives claim delivering the plan without cutting staff salaries or services would cost £2.5 billion, including £1.5 billion for the NHS.
Trending
Additionally, schools would require an extra £430 million, Police Scotland an extra £431 million, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service an additional £108 million and Scottish Prison Service a further £43 million, the Tories said. They insist the £2.5 billion figure is only the starting point - because there would be extra costs involved for all public services, including civil servants running the Scottish Government. In a press release Maurice Golden MSP, the Scottish Conservative economy spokesman, said: “This ludicrous SNP plan would blow a £2.5 billion pound hole in the Scottish Budget every year. “Pushing ahead with this nonsense would mean choosing between shutting public services or finding billions of pounds extra to keep our schools, hospitals and emergency services operating at the same capacity as they do now.
Kate Forbes, MSP finance minister, is set to announce plans on Monday
Nicola Sturgeon previously asked private firms to “embrace” a four day working week
“So the SNP need to explain this cavalier approach and tell the public if their preference is to inflict savage cuts on public services or force us to put up with a four-day school system and hurt the NHS. “This is right up there with all the fantasy nationalist plans to freely print money and use whatever currency they fancy. SNP ministers clearly don’t live in the real world.” The proposal is set to be debated at this weekend's virtual SNP conference. In May, Nicola Sturgeon asked private firms to “embrace” a four-day working week as the country adapts to life after lockdown.
READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon outlines how she plans to secure independence
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Maurice Golden described the plan as 'ludicrous'
She urged employers to avoid falling back into “old and bad ways of doing things” as the economy recovers from the pandemic. SNP MSP George Adam fired back at the Scottish Tories, describing them as “well out of step” with the views of voters. He said: “Once again the Tories are well out of step with the views of Scottish voters - in July a poll found that 70 per cent would back a four-day working week. "The idea of a four-day week is one that is currently gaining momentum across the globe as we look to rebuild a different economy that is fit for the future. DON'T MISS:
Sturgeon shamed as Scotland’s Covid death rate prompts questions [INSIGHT]
No10 ‘hatches plot’ to destroy Sturgeon’s independence campaign [REVEAL]
Nicola Sturgeon to walk away from SNP without path to independence [LATEST]
SNP MSP George Adam said the Tories are “well out of step” with the views of voters
Boris Johnson has also faced calls to introduce a four-day working week
"It is absolutely right that we discuss progressive policies like this as we look to improve the lives of people in Scotland and support our economic recovery in the coming years. "The SNP won't be taking any lectures on workers' rights from the party who opposed the minimum wage and now want to scrap the 48-hour limit on a working week." Boris Johnson has also faced calls to introduce a four-day working week from Labour MPs. They say it will help the country's economic recovery and the public’s mental health.
Coronavirus map


thedailyexpress--2020-11-27--Iran fury: Scientist's assassination could trigger 'full blown war', claims military chief

Mohsen Fakhrizadeh died in hospital after armed assassins gunned him down in his car , according to state media .
Iran swiftly blamed Israel - and suggested it had acted with the blessing of US President Donald Trump .
Hossein Dehghan , military adviser to religious leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei lashed out in an angry tweet in which he pledged to `` strike as thunder at the killers of this oppressed martyr '' .
In a reference to Mr Trump , defeated by Joe Biden in November 3 's US Presidential election , he added : `` In the last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ally , the Zionists seek to intensify pressure on Iran and create a full-blown war . ''
Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif tweeted of `` serious indications of Israeli role '' and called on Western countries to `` end their shameful double standards & condemn this act of state terror '' .
Mr Fakhrizadeh has for years been described by both Western and Israeli intelligence services as the leader of a covert atomic bomb programme which was halted in 2003 , but which both Israel and the United States believe Iran is trying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A statement issued by Iran 's armed forces said : `` Unfortunately , the medical team did not succeed in reviving Mr Fakhrizadeh , and a few minutes ago , this manager and scientist achieved the high status of martyrdom after years of effort and struggle . ''
Semi-official news agency Tasnim suggested `` terrorists blew up another car '' before firing on a vehicle carrying Fakhrizadeh and his bodyguards in an ambush outside the capital .
JUST IN : Merkel on the brink : 'Tired ' German Chancellor forgets words Neither Israel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ State Department or the CIA has commented , and neither has Mr Biden 's transition team .
Irrespective of who was behind the attack , it is guaranteed to escalate already raised tensions between Tehran and Washington in the last weeks of the Trump Presidency .
In 2018 , Mr Trump pulled the United States from a deal reached under Obama , his predecessor , by which sanctions on Iran were lifted in return for curbs on its nuclear programme .
Mr Biden has said he will aim to restore that agreement , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ controversial .
DO N'T MISS Iran on the brink : Ex-Trump aide exposes US plot [ INSIGHT ] World War 3 : Missile strike kills eight pro-Iranian militia members [ EXPLAINER ] World War 3 outbreak : BBC expert stuns Newsnight in Iran crash claim [ ANALYSIS ] Speculation has been rife that Mr Trump may be plotting to target Iran in the last few weeks of his tenure in the White House .
Earlier this month , a US official confirmed the 74-year-old had asked military aides for a plan for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against it after being warned it could ignite a wider Middle East conflict .
In January , Mr Trump ordered a US drone strike in Baghdad which killed Qassem Soleimani , Iran 's most powerful military commander .
Iran retaliated by firing missiles at a US base in Iraq , the closest the two foes have come to war in decades .
Mr Fakhrizadeh was the only Iranian scientist named in the International Atomic Energy Agency 's 2015 `` final assessment '' of open questions about Iran 's nuclear programme .
The IAEA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in support of a possible military dimension to Iran 's nuclear programme '' .
He was a central figure in a presentation by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in 2018 accusing Iran of continuing to seek nuclear weapons .

Iran: Killing of scientist by 'Israel' a 'really big deal' says expert
Mohsen Fakhrizadeh died in hospital after armed assassins gunned him down in his car, according to state media. Iran swiftly blamed Israel - and suggested it had acted with the blessing of US President Donald Trump.
Trending
In the last days of the political life of their ally, the Zionists seek to intensify pressure on Iran and create a full-blown war Hossein Dehghan
Hossein Dehghan, military adviser to religious leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei lashed out in an angry tweet in which he pledged to "strike as thunder at the killers of this oppressed martyr". In a reference to Mr Trump, defeated by Joe Biden in November 3's US Presidential election, he added: "In the last days of the political life of their ally, the Zionists seek to intensify pressure on Iran and create a full-blown war." Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif tweeted of "serious indications of Israeli role" and called on Western countries to "end their shameful double standards & condemn this act of state terror".
US President Donald Trump and Ayatollah Ali Khamenei
Iran has accused Israel of assassinating Mohsen Fakhrizadeh
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Mr Fakhrizadeh has for years been described by both Western and Israeli intelligence services as the leader of a covert atomic bomb programme which was halted in 2003, but which both Israel and the United States believe Iran is trying to revive - accusations Tehran denies. A statement issued by Iran's armed forces said: "Unfortunately, the medical team did not succeed in reviving Mr Fakhrizadeh, and a few minutes ago, this manager and scientist achieved the high status of martyrdom after years of effort and struggle." Semi-official news agency Tasnim suggested "terrorists blew up another car" before firing on a vehicle carrying Fakhrizadeh and his bodyguards in an ambush outside the capital. JUST IN: Merkel on the brink: 'Tired' German Chancellor forgets words
Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif tweeted about the incident
Neither Israel nor the White House, Pentagon, State Department or the CIA has commented, and neither has Mr Biden's transition team. Irrespective of who was behind the attack, it is guaranteed to escalate already raised tensions between Tehran and Washington in the last weeks of the Trump Presidency. In 2018, Mr Trump pulled the United States from a deal reached under Obama, his predecessor, by which sanctions on Iran were lifted in return for curbs on its nuclear programme. Mr Biden has said he will aim to restore that agreement, although such a move would be highly controversial. DON'T MISS
Iran on the brink: Ex-Trump aide exposes US plot [INSIGHT]
World War 3: Missile strike kills eight pro-Iranian militia members [EXPLAINER]
World War 3 outbreak: BBC expert stuns Newsnight in Iran crash claim [ANALYSIS]
Incoming President Joe Biden
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
Speculation has been rife that Mr Trump may be plotting to target Iran in the last few weeks of his tenure in the White House. Earlier this month, a US official confirmed the 74-year-old had asked military aides for a plan for a possible strike on Iran - but decided against it after being warned it could ignite a wider Middle East conflict. In January, Mr Trump ordered a US drone strike in Baghdad which killed Qassem Soleimani, Iran's most powerful military commander. Iran retaliated by firing missiles at a US base in Iraq, the closest the two foes have come to war in decades.
Iranian military factfile
Mr Fakhrizadeh was the only Iranian scientist named in the International Atomic Energy Agency's 2015 "final assessment" of open questions about Iran's nuclear programme. The IAEA's report said he oversaw activities "in support of a possible military dimension to Iran's nuclear programme". He was a central figure in a presentation by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in 2018 accusing Iran of continuing to seek nuclear weapons. Mr Netanyahu commented: "Remember that name, Fakhrizadeh."
Qassem Soleimani was killed by a US drone strike in January


thedailyexpress--2020-11-27--'Exasperated' Barnier growing 'impatient' as EU chief heads to London for Brexit showdown

The Brussels diplomat was said to be in a downbeat mood earlier today when he held talks with the European Parliament ’ s Brexit committee .
Following a coronavirus outbreak in the EU ’ s team , he spent his first day out of self-isolation discussing the state of play in the trade talks with senior figures from the bloc .
Mr Barnier complained that “ significant divergences ” remain between the two sides with time running out to agree a trade deal ready to come into force when the UK ’ s post-Brexit transition out of the EU single @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1 .
In his meeting with MEPs , the Frenchman said there had been no sufficient movement on the main sticking points to declare a breakthrough .
According to a source familiar with the discussions , he was said to be “ exasperated and impatient ” with his recent head-to-heads with UK negotiator Lord Frost .
One insider said : “ Limited progress with big gaps still remaining on the usual issues .
Not much to really write home about.
” But despite the deadlock , Mr Barnier insisted progress had been made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A source said both sides were closing in on agreements for judicial and security cooperation , the free flow of workers and social security .
Mr Barnier also claimed member states had backed his plan to fast-track the ratification process by ensuring only EU leaders and MEPS will have a say on the final agreement .
The EU Parliament is set to hold an emergency session on December 28 to give its approval .
The Brussels diplomat told the senior MEPs that the bloc would have to recognise Britain ’ s status @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a deal on fisheries over the line .
In a private meeting of EU ambassadors , Mr Barnier was reported to be downbeat about the chances of a deal .
An EU source said : `` Barnier said the deal remains difficult .
The EU and the UK remain at loggerheads over the main outstanding issues , and he was n't particularly optimistic about the prospects of the negotiations . ''
Mr Barnier earlier this week claimed he was prepared to call-off negotiations unless he was confident a breakthrough was possible over the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sides were still “ nautical miles ” away from each other on the issue of fishing quotas .
MUST READ : Brexit deal is OFF unless it returns 'borders , waters and laws ' to UK Panicked EU states have ordered Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen immediately trigger the bloc ’ s emergency plans for a no deal Brexit .
An EU insider said : “ A deal can not be guaranteed at this stage and a no deal outcome can not be excluded .
The EU needs to prepare diligently for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government was urging the EU to stand firm and not be “ intimidated ” by Britain with the Brexit trade talks set to go down to the wire .
Clement Beaune , France ’ s Europe minister , said : “ The British need an agreement more than we do .
Europeans must be convinced of this and convinced of their strength in these negotiations.
” DO N'T MISS EU triggers immediate no-deal Brexit plot after Barnier 's update [ EXCLUSIVE ] Claire Fox offers BRILLIANT post-Brexit solution to UK foreign aid row @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – fears Brexit trade deal is NOT possible [ INSIGHT ]

Brexit: EU 'will need to compromise on fisheries' says Benn
The Brussels diplomat was said to be in a downbeat mood earlier today when he held talks with the European Parliament’s Brexit committee. Following a coronavirus outbreak in the EU’s team, he spent his first day out of self-isolation discussing the state of play in the trade talks with senior figures from the bloc. Mr Barnier complained that “significant divergences” remain between the two sides with time running out to agree a trade deal ready to come into force when the UK’s post-Brexit transition out of the EU single market and customs union concludes on January 1.
Trending
In his meeting with MEPs, the Frenchman said there had been no sufficient movement on the main sticking points to declare a breakthrough. According to a source familiar with the discussions, he was said to be “exasperated and impatient” with his recent head-to-heads with UK negotiator Lord Frost. One insider said: “Limited progress with big gaps still remaining on the usual issues. Not much to really write home about.” But despite the deadlock, Mr Barnier insisted progress had been made across much of the Brexit trade deal.
Michel Barnier was said to have been frustrated by the lack of Brexit progress
Michel Barnier will hold weekend Brexit talks in London
A source said both sides were closing in on agreements for judicial and security cooperation, the free flow of workers and social security. Mr Barnier also claimed member states had backed his plan to fast-track the ratification process by ensuring only EU leaders and MEPS will have a say on the final agreement. The EU Parliament is set to hold an emergency session on December 28 to give its approval. The Brussels diplomat told the senior MEPs that the bloc would have to recognise Britain’s status as an independent coastal state to get a deal on fisheries over the line.
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Lord Frost has refused to accept the EU's demands during the Brexit talks
In a private meeting of EU ambassadors, Mr Barnier was reported to be downbeat about the chances of a deal. An EU source said: "Barnier said the deal remains difficult. The EU and the UK remain at loggerheads over the main outstanding issues, and he wasn't particularly optimistic about the prospects of the negotiations." Mr Barnier earlier this week claimed he was prepared to call-off negotiations unless he was confident a breakthrough was possible over the weekend. Brussels sources said the two sides were still “nautical miles” away from each other on the issue of fishing quotas. MUST READ: Brexit deal is OFF unless it returns 'borders, waters and laws' to UK
Brexit: What needs to be done to secure a trade deal?
Panicked EU states have ordered Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen immediately trigger the bloc’s emergency plans for a no deal Brexit. An EU insider said: “A deal cannot be guaranteed at this stage and a no deal outcome cannot be excluded. The EU needs to prepare diligently for all possible outcomes.” But the French government was urging the EU to stand firm and not be “intimidated” by Britain with the Brexit trade talks set to go down to the wire. Clement Beaune, France’s Europe minister, said: “The British need an agreement more than we do. Europeans must be convinced of this and convinced of their strength in these negotiations.” DON'T MISS
EU triggers immediate no-deal Brexit plot after Barnier's update [EXCLUSIVE]
Claire Fox offers BRILLIANT post-Brexit solution to UK foreign aid row [VIDEO]
Barnier breaks his silence – fears Brexit trade deal is NOT possible [INSIGHT]
Brexit: Italian ambassador predicts deal to come ‘within days’


thedailyexpress--2020-11-27--'Derisory!' Boris Johnson instantly rejects Michel Barnier's £104m fishing quotas offer

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Mr Barnier was runderstood to be preparing a climbdown that hands British fishermen a boost of up to 18 percent of catch quotas in our waters .
But British officials laughed off the plan , insisting Brussels would have to move further before an agreement is possible .
A UK source close to the talks told Express.co.uk : “ It ’ s derisory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say about it.
” Under the plan , British fishermen would see an increase of their catch quotas between 15 and 18 percent for certain species .
The Prime Minister ’ s spokesman said : “ Our negotiating principle remains that we will become an independent coastal state and we will retain control of our fisheries.
” He added : “ The talks will resume over the weekend on a face to face basis .
We remain committed to seeking a free-trade agreement but that must fully respect UK sovereignty .
“ At @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still possible and we are working to achieve one .
We ’ ll continue to negotiate over the weekend to that end.
” The offer has been on the table for at least three weeks , and has been unable to provide a breakthrough .
EU sources insisted it would not feature in any “ new proposals ” put forward by Mr Barnier during the weekend wrangling over the Brexit trade deal .
One insider said both sides ’ positions are still “ nautical miles ” apart in the row over access to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year .

Brexit: Sunak says UK is prepared regardless of trade deal
Mr Barnier was runderstood to be preparing a climbdown that hands British fishermen a boost of up to 18 percent of catch quotas in our waters. But British officials laughed off the plan, insisting Brussels would have to move further before an agreement is possible. A UK source close to the talks told Express.co.uk: “It’s derisory, there’s nothing more to say about it.”
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Under the plan, British fishermen would see an increase of their catch quotas between 15 and 18 percent for certain species. The Prime Minister’s spokesman said: “Our negotiating principle remains that we will become an independent coastal state and we will retain control of our fisheries.” He added: “The talks will resume over the weekend on a face to face basis. We remain committed to seeking a free-trade agreement but that must fully respect UK sovereignty. “At this late stage, a deal is still possible and we are working to achieve one. We’ll continue to negotiate over the weekend to that end.” The offer has been on the table for at least three weeks, and has been unable to provide a breakthrough. EU sources insisted it would not feature in any “new proposals” put forward by Mr Barnier during the weekend wrangling over the Brexit trade deal. One insider said both sides’ positions are still “nautical miles” apart in the row over access to British waters after the end of the year.
Michel Barnier's fisheries proposal blown out of the water before it even lands in London
Lord Frost has warned the EU must hand back control of UK waters as part of the Brexit deal
Brussels’ negotiator Mr Barnier warned the dispute has blocked any progress being made in recent months. The Frenchman told colleagues he was no longer able to confirm whether a deal is possible or not. He claimed it would be “impossible” to make a significant unless Downing Street is prepared to cave in to the bloc’s demands. An EU diplomat said: “The gaps on level playing field, governance and fisheries remain large. Michel Barnier wasn’t able to say at this stage whether a deal would be possible.
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Michel Barnier travels to London tonight
“Without London taking the necessary decisions quickly, reaching a deal will be all but impossible. Time is running out quickly. There are only a few days left for further negotiations.” Panicked EU states ordered Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen immediately trigger the bloc’s emergency plans for a no-deal Brexit. The insider added: “A deal cannot be guaranteed at this stage and a no-deal outcome cannot be excluded. The EU needs to prepare diligently for all possible outcomes.” But France was urging the EU to stand firm and not be “intimidated” by Britain with the Brexit trade talks set to go down to the wire. MUST READ: Boris Johnson orders Barnier to compromise in Brexit talks
What needs to happen for a Brexit deal to get over the line?
Europe minister Clement Beaune said: “The British need an agreement more than we do. Europeans must be convinced of this, and convinced of their strength in these negotiations.” Prime Minister Boris Johnson questioned whether the EU really wants to secure a deal, insisting there is already a possible agreement on the table. He told reporters: “The likelihood of a deal is very much determined by our friends and partners in the EU. “There is a deal to be done if they want to do it, which I think would benefit people on both sides of the Channel.” DON'T MISS
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Brexit LIVE: EU gives in and offers to SLASH fishing quota [UPDATES]
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thedailyexpress--2020-11-29--Brexit ULTIMATUM: 'No sell out' to Brussels to get a deal, vows Boris

At the beginning of a week which Downing Street sources have described as “ the last hurrah ” in the talks with the EU , sources close to the Prime Minister have made it clear that there will be no prospect of abandoning the government ’ s key principles .
There was a positive sign that deals can be done with Europe as Home Secretary Priti Patel pulled off an historic agreement to tackle illegal migrants crossing the English Channel .
But the firm words on Brexit means that the UK will not back down over EU demands to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waters or agree to so called “ level playing field ” demands which would leave British regulations governed by Brussels .
The hard line came as British negotiator Lord Frost and the EU ’ s Michel Barnier met yesterday in London to start a last intensive round of negotiations .
However , even as the negotiating teams sat across the table from one another , senior Tory MPs and newly elected ones from the former Labour red wall seats made it clear that the Prime Minister will face a major rebellion if he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Sunday Express , former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith urged Mr Johnson to embody the spirit of Henry V in the talks .
Quoting from Shakespeare ’ s play of the conquering English king , he said : “ Boris must ‘ imitate the action of the tiger ; Stiffen the sinews , summon up the blood , disguise fair nature with hard-favour 'd rage ’ and win.
” He added : “ A real Brexit – of the kind I support , the public supports , and , yes , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back on our feet by freeing us from the dead hand of the EU and enabling us to make our way in the world again with our heads held high.
” READ MORE : UK and France agree landmark deal to STOP Channel crossings • UK 's secret plan to blow up Channel Tunnel with nuclear bomb exposed He added that the people of this country “ voted to leave because they wanted to restore what they regard as our ancient birthright – sovereignty , the right to govern ourselves in our own @ @ @ @ @ @ @ long and glorious past of Britain .
It is as simple as that.
” Rother Valley MP Alex Stafford MP warned the Prime Minister that the outcome of the talks was a vital matter of trust for many voters .
He said : “ Millions of Brits put their trust in the Conservative Party at the last election .
“ Our Manifesto made it clear that a Conservative Government would take the whole country out of the EU as one United Kingdom .
It said that any deal must take us out of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ set our own tariffs and do our own trade deal and pass our own laws and ensure it is our courts that enforce them .
“ Our Manifesto pledged a new relationship with the EU based on free trade and friendly cooperation , not on the EU ’ s treaties or EU law .
`` It promised that there will be no political alignment with the EU .
We made it clear that a Conservative Government would secure a deal that would mean the UK will be out of the single market and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no longer have any jurisdiction.
” He added : “ We promised the British people that a Conservative Government would secure a deal that will take back control of our laws , take back control of our money , control our own trade policy , introduce an Australian-style points based immigration system and ensure we are in full control of our fishing waters .
“ The British people have waited patiently for four and a half years for Brexit to happen .
I have every faith that our Prime Minister will deliver the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people.
” DO N'T MISS Brexit negotiators told : ‘ Grow up , admit you ca n't agree a deal ! '
[ INSIGHT ] 'Spoiled ' EU told to end attempts to take away British waters [ ANALYSIS ] Brexiteers lash out after Barnier offers UK 18 % of its own waters [ REPORT ] • Boris warned 'he is toast ' if Brexit deal betrays plans for Britain With the coronavirus vote and spending review votes coming next week with potential Tory rebellions , Downing Street last night was keen to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what could be a make or break week for the Prime Minister .
A senior source insisted that the British side “ are making clear that they are not about to abandon their principles to reach a deal.
” They noted that the UK would be fine to accept Australia rules with no formal deal and a deal with the EU was not worth any cost .
“ Whilst we would prefer to reach an agreement , we will only be able to do that if the EU recognise our independence .
No @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also noted that the offer by Mr Barnier to give Britain back 15 to 18 per cent of its own fish showed that the two sides are still “ significant gaps ” on difficult issues .
A government source said : “ These figures are risible , and the EU side know full well that we would never accept this .
`` There seems to be a failure from the Commission to internalise the scale of change needed as we become an independent nation.
” The EU fish almost half of the fish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s team have been repeatedly told that there needs to be a change to that situation in the future and that is something Britain intends to secure .
“ The UK team will not settle for anything less than a great deal for U.K. fishing communities that guarantees for the first time in nearly 50 years that we have control over our waters , ” the source said .
There is also a high level of frustration in the British team at EU stalling tactics which have meant that the text has only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ following many wasted months .
British negotiators have noted that the EU still doesn ’ t seem to understand that Britain can not accept a deal that undermines our new status as an independent country .
A source close to the negotiations added : “ Over the coming days we will continue to negotiate with creativity and intensity .
We hope that the EU will come with some fresh thinking because what we ’ ve seen so far doesn ’ t cut it .
They must understand that we are not going to @ @ @ @ @ @

Brexit: Boris Johnson 'can't afford to lose' ERG says Rory Stewart
At the beginning of a week which Downing Street sources have described as “the last hurrah” in the talks with the EU, sources close to the Prime Minister have made it clear that there will be no prospect of abandoning the government’s key principles. There was a positive sign that deals can be done with Europe as Home Secretary Priti Patel pulled off an historic agreement to tackle illegal migrants crossing the English Channel. But the firm words on Brexit means that the UK will not back down over EU demands to be allowed to continue to pillage British fishing waters or agree to so called “level playing field” demands which would leave British regulations governed by Brussels. The hard line came as British negotiator Lord Frost and the EU’s Michel Barnier met yesterday in London to start a last intensive round of negotiations.
Trending
However, even as the negotiating teams sat across the table from one another, senior Tory MPs and newly elected ones from the former Labour red wall seats made it clear that the Prime Minister will face a major rebellion if he betrays the referendum vote. Writing for the Sunday Express, former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith urged Mr Johnson to embody the spirit of Henry V in the talks. Quoting from Shakespeare’s play of the conquering English king, he said: “Boris must ‘imitate the action of the tiger; Stiffen the sinews, summon up the blood, disguise fair nature with hard-favour'd rage’ and win.” He added: “A real Brexit – of the kind I support, the public supports, and, yes, Boris supports - will help get us back on our feet by freeing us from the dead hand of the EU and enabling us to make our way in the world again with our heads held high.” READ MORE: UK and France agree landmark deal to STOP Channel crossings
Brexit ULTIMATUM: 'No sell out' to Brussels to get a deal, vows Boris
Iain Duncan-Smith urged the Prime Minister to embody the spirit of Henry V in the talks
READ MORE UK's secret plan to blow up Channel Tunnel with nuclear bomb exposed He added that the people of this country “voted to leave because they wanted to restore what they regard as our ancient birthright – sovereignty, the right to govern ourselves in our own country, especially a country with the long and glorious past of Britain. It is as simple as that.” Rother Valley MP Alex Stafford MP warned the Prime Minister that the outcome of the talks was a vital matter of trust for many voters. He said: “Millions of Brits put their trust in the Conservative Party at the last election. “Our Manifesto made it clear that a Conservative Government would take the whole country out of the EU as one United Kingdom. It said that any deal must take us out of the customs union, allow us to set our own tariffs and do our own trade deal and pass our own laws and ensure it is our courts that enforce them.
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Millions of Conservatives put their faith in Boris Johnson last year
“Our Manifesto pledged a new relationship with the EU based on free trade and friendly cooperation, not on the EU’s treaties or EU law. "It promised that there will be no political alignment with the EU. We made it clear that a Conservative Government would secure a deal that would mean the UK will be out of the single market and that the European Court of Justice would no longer have any jurisdiction.” He added: “We promised the British people that a Conservative Government would secure a deal that will take back control of our laws, take back control of our money, control our own trade policy, introduce an Australian-style points based immigration system and ensure we are in full control of our fishing waters. “The British people have waited patiently for four and a half years for Brexit to happen. I have every faith that our Prime Minister will deliver the Brexit deal he promised to the British people.” DON'T MISS
Brexit negotiators told: ‘Grow up, admit you can't agree a deal!' [INSIGHT]
'Spoiled' EU told to end attempts to take away British waters [ANALYSIS]
Brexiteers lash out after Barnier offers UK 18% of its own waters [REPORT]
Brexit timeline
READ MORE Boris warned 'he is toast' if Brexit deal betrays plans for Britain With the coronavirus vote and spending review votes coming next week with potential Tory rebellions, Downing Street last night was keen to calm any Brexit fears among backbenchers in what could be a make or break week for the Prime Minister. A senior source insisted that the British side “are making clear that they are not about to abandon their principles to reach a deal.” They noted that the UK would be fine to accept Australia rules with no formal deal and a deal with the EU was not worth any cost. “Whilst we would prefer to reach an agreement, we will only be able to do that if the EU recognise our independence. No agreement is arguably underpriced.”
Talks between the EU and Britain will continue talks
The source also noted that the offer by Mr Barnier to give Britain back 15 to 18 per cent of its own fish showed that the two sides are still “significant gaps” on difficult issues. A government source said: “These figures are risible, and the EU side know full well that we would never accept this. "There seems to be a failure from the Commission to internalise the scale of change needed as we become an independent nation.” The EU fish almost half of the fish in British waters and Mr Barnier’s team have been repeatedly told that there needs to be a change to that situation in the future and that is something Britain intends to secure.


thedailyexpress--2020-11-29--Britain will announce no-deal Brexit NEXT WEEK unless the EU concedes warns Downing Street

The Government has reportedly cautioned that “ no deal is arguably under-priced ” and a “ ’ significant gap ’ still exists on fisheries ” .
According to The Telegraph , this assessment was issued “ at the start of what may be the final week of trade negotiations ” between the UK and the EU .
The comments suggest Britain is toughening its stance on the talks which have been drawn-out for months .
The EU ’ s chief negotiator Michel Barnier arrived in London on Friday in preparation to re-ignite Brexit talks .
After spending a week in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s team testing positive for coronavirus , Mr Barnier resumed face-to-face negotiations with the UK on Saturday morning .
Before his arrival , Mr Barnier wrote on Twitter that the “ same significant divergences persist ” in Brexit talks .
The UK and France signed a new bilateral deal on Saturday which prevents Channel migrant crossings .
The new agreement means France has to double police beach patrols but can continue to resist taking back arrivals .
Although the deal signalled a sign of hope between the UK and EU , Number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doubt on the talks .
Both sides need to pass in law the details of the trade treaty before the transition period ends at the start of January .
They added : “ These figures are risible , and the EU side know full well that we would never accept this .
`` There seems to be a failure from the Commission to internalise the scale of change needed as we become an independent nation.
” Negotiations between Mr Barnier and his UK counterpart David Frost are set to continue on Sunday and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lord Frost wrote on Twitter that “ it is late ” to be negotiating for a deal .
But he added : “ A deal is still possible , and I will continue to talk until it ’ s clear that it isn ’ t .

Brexit: Ben Habib hits out at 'absurd proposition' from the EU
The Government has reportedly cautioned that “no deal is arguably under-priced” and a “’significant gap’ still exists on fisheries”. According to The Telegraph, this assessment was issued “at the start of what may be the final week of trade negotiations” between the UK and the EU.
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The comments suggest Britain is toughening its stance on the talks which have been drawn-out for months. The EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier arrived in London on Friday in preparation to re-ignite Brexit talks. After spending a week in isolation following a member of the bloc’s team testing positive for coronavirus, Mr Barnier resumed face-to-face negotiations with the UK on Saturday morning. Before his arrival, Mr Barnier wrote on Twitter that the “same significant divergences persist” in Brexit talks.
The Government has reportedly cautioned that “no deal is arguably under-priced”
The EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier arrived in London on Friday
The UK and France signed a new bilateral deal on Saturday which prevents Channel migrant crossings. The new agreement means France has to double police beach patrols but can continue to resist taking back arrivals. Although the deal signalled a sign of hope between the UK and EU, Number 10’s most recent warning casts doubt on the talks. Both sides need to pass in law the details of the trade treaty before the transition period ends at the start of January. READ MORE: EU's £104 million fishing compromise REJECTED
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The Government has reportedly warned that a “’significant gap’ still exists on fisheries”
Lord Frost said: “For a deal to be possible it must fully respect UK sovereignty.”
They added: “These figures are risible, and the EU side know full well that we would never accept this. "There seems to be a failure from the Commission to internalise the scale of change needed as we become an independent nation.” Negotiations between Mr Barnier and his UK counterpart David Frost are set to continue on Sunday and into next week. On Friday, Lord Frost wrote on Twitter that “it is late” to be negotiating for a deal. But he added: “A deal is still possible, and I will continue to talk until it’s clear that it isn’t.
Brexit timeline