thedailyexpress--2020-12-27--Brexiteer Bridgen hails Boris Johnson's trade deal with EU 'We played a blinder!'

Mr Bridgen told LBC the deal agreed by the UK 's Prime Minister and his chief Brexit negotiator is far better than the Government thought they would ever get .
The European Research Group member added that Mr Johnson and Lord Frost have played a blinder for Britain .
Mr Bridgen said : `` From what I can see of it , it is a far better deal than we thought we would ever get .
`` I think you have got to bear in mind that as a Eurosceptic for decades and someone who campaigned for the referendum originally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to me that in 2020 , we are going to be in a position to take back control of our money , laws , borders and we can have our own free trade deals around the world I would have snapped your hands off for that .
`` I think we have got to keep things into perspective . ''
He added : `` To be honest I think the Prime Minister and Lord Frost have played a blinder for the UK . ''
READ MORE : Brexit blow as fishing leaders accuse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get deal

Brexit: Andrew Bridgen praises trade deal with the EU
Mr Bridgen told LBC the deal agreed by the UK's Prime Minister and his chief Brexit negotiator is far better than the Government thought they would ever get. The European Research Group member added that Mr Johnson and Lord Frost have played a blinder for Britain.
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Mr Bridgen said: "From what I can see of it, it is a far better deal than we thought we would ever get. "I think you have got to bear in mind that as a Eurosceptic for decades and someone who campaigned for the referendum originally if back in 2015 someone had said to me that in 2020, we are going to be in a position to take back control of our money, laws, borders and we can have our own free trade deals around the world I would have snapped your hands off for that. "I think we have got to keep things into perspective." He added: "To be honest I think the Prime Minister and Lord Frost have played a blinder for the UK." READ MORE: Brexit blow as fishing leaders accuse Boris of ‘CAVING IN’ to get deal
Brexit news: Andrew Bridgen praised Boris Johnson and David Frost
Boris Johnson has been Prime Minister since July 2019
On Christmas Eve it was announced that the UK and EU had struck an agreement regarding the terms of a free trade agreement. The announcement marked the end of years of trade talks between Britain and the trading bloc. The trade deal has yet to be ratified by the European or UK Parliament ahead of the December 31 2020 deadline. This morning, the Chancellor of the Exchequer hailed the impact the UK Government's post-Brexit trade agreement will have on the future of Britain.
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Brexit: Anneliese Dodds slams government's 'thin' deal
The Chancellor of the Exchequer told Sky News the UK and European Union will put divisions of the past behind Mr Sunak said: "It has obviously been a difficult year and a difficult winter but people should know that the Government is continuing to work hard to protect British businesses and families through this difficult time. "There is light at the end of the tunnel with the vaccine. DON'T MISS:
Brexiteer Hannan mocks Remainer after deal tantrum [DETAILS]
Erasmus scheme replaced with BIGGER programme: What is Turing scheme? [INSIGHT]
Nicola Sturgeon brutally torn apart by Brexiteers [ANALYSIS]
Brexit: The stages of the UK and EU securing a trade agreement


thedailyexpress--2020-12-28--Barnier warns EU is NOT afraid of SUING Britain if UK cannot agree with Brussels in 2021

The EU chief negotiator said there was “ obviously a risk ” in the event of future arguments after a deal was agreed between both sides on Christmas Eve .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has made clear that any disputes resulting from the trade deal would be dealt by “ third-party arbitration ” if they occurred but stressed they would be unlikely .
When asked whether he expected “ significant litigation ” with the UK , Mr Barnier told French newspaper Le Figaro : “ There is obviously a risk but I do not want to make a trial of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be the basis for intelligent and sustainable cooperation between Europe and the United Kingdom .
“ The British have experienced diplomats who never give up and always ask for more !
`` They wanted ‘ the best of both worlds ’ .
Express.co.uk understands a regulatory body or panel is expected to set up to make sure the newly agreed deal is properly applied and interpreted .
When asked how the EU will make sure the UK will stick to its side of the agreement , EU Commission president Ursula Von der Leyen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We have strong measures that can be taken if one party does not play by the rules .
“ So starting from re-balancing mechanisms that are built-in with dispute settlement mechanisms , to review clauses and overall review for example , after four years , to see whether both sides played by the rules , that the level playing field is level indeed .
“ And there is the commitment to follow whatever has been agreed in this deal .
READ MORE : ‘ Clock ticking ’ on Brexit agreement for the Rock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the experience we have had we built in safeguards that are necessary to make sure there is a strong incentive for both sides to stick to what they have agreed to.
” A Downing Street spokesman told Express.co.uk : “ The deal is based on international law , not EU law .
“ There is no role for the European Court of Justice and no requirements for the UK to continue following EU law or be forced to keep EU law as it currently stands .
“ If the UK exercises its sovereign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU , any issues arising will be dealt with fairly by an independent arbitration process with no role for EU judges.
” DO N'T MISS : ‘ Clock ticking ’ on Brexit agreement for the Rock after Boris ’ deal [ REVEAL ] EU nations approve provisional EU-UK deal quelling Barnier 's backlash [ INSIGHT ] PM in massive EU trade deal compromise that will anger Brexiteers [ LATEST ] It comes as EU members approved the trade deal with the UK with just days to go before the transition period ends this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to determine how they can provisionally approve the trade deal covering £660billion of trade in time for the end of the transition period on Thursday .
Germany , which holds the rotating EU presidency now said it was a `` green light '' to a deal being secured allowing the agreement to provisionally come into force on New Years Day .
Meanwhile , UK MPs will gather in the House of Commons on Wednesday to debate the deal with Tory Eurosceptics urgently poring over the details of the treaty brokered on Christmas Eve @

Boris Johnson: Brexit deal is ‘glad tidings of great joy’
The EU chief negotiator said there was “obviously a risk” in the event of future arguments after a deal was agreed between both sides on Christmas Eve. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has made clear that any disputes resulting from the trade deal would be dealt by “third-party arbitration” if they occurred but stressed they would be unlikely.
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When asked whether he expected “significant litigation” with the UK, Mr Barnier told French newspaper Le Figaro: “There is obviously a risk but I do not want to make a trial of intent here. “This agreement must be the basis for intelligent and sustainable cooperation between Europe and the United Kingdom. “The British have experienced diplomats who never give up and always ask for more! "They wanted ‘the best of both worlds’.
Michel Barnier has spoken out on the Brexit trade deal
UK chief Lord Frost has also welcomed the deal
Express.co.uk understands a regulatory body or panel is expected to set up to make sure the newly agreed deal is properly applied and interpreted. When asked how the EU will make sure the UK will stick to its side of the agreement, EU Commission president Ursula Von der Leyen said at a press conference: “We have strong measures that can be taken if one party does not play by the rules. “So starting from re-balancing mechanisms that are built-in with dispute settlement mechanisms, to review clauses and overall review for example, after four years, to see whether both sides played by the rules, that the level playing field is level indeed. “And there is the commitment to follow whatever has been agreed in this deal. READ MORE: ‘Clock ticking’ on Brexit agreement for the Rock after Boris’ deal
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Boris Johnson has spoken to Brussels chiefs today
“So from the experience we have had we built in safeguards that are necessary to make sure there is a strong incentive for both sides to stick to what they have agreed to.” A Downing Street spokesman told Express.co.uk: “The deal is based on international law, not EU law. “There is no role for the European Court of Justice and no requirements for the UK to continue following EU law or be forced to keep EU law as it currently stands. “If the UK exercises its sovereign right to have different rules to the EU, any issues arising will be dealt with fairly by an independent arbitration process with no role for EU judges.” DON'T MISS:
‘Clock ticking’ on Brexit agreement for the Rock after Boris’ deal [REVEAL]
EU nations approve provisional EU-UK deal quelling Barnier's backlash [INSIGHT]
PM in massive EU trade deal compromise that will anger Brexiteers [LATEST]
The EU Parliament is expected to ratify the deal by February after member states approved it
It comes as EU members approved the trade deal with the UK with just days to go before the transition period ends this morning. Diplomats and bloc members met to determine how they can provisionally approve the trade deal covering £660billion of trade in time for the end of the transition period on Thursday. Germany, which holds the rotating EU presidency now said it was a "green light" to a deal being secured allowing the agreement to provisionally come into force on New Years Day. Meanwhile, UK MPs will gather in the House of Commons on Wednesday to debate the deal with Tory Eurosceptics urgently poring over the details of the treaty brokered on Christmas Eve.
Barnier and Frost had weeks of heated discussions to secure a deal


thedailyexpress--2020-12-28--Brexit triumph: MEP taunted EU over 'severe democratic deficit' before trade deal success

Prime Minister Boris Johnson told the UK that a historic trade deal between the EU and Britain had finally been reached .
The deal now needs to pass through Parliament before this week 's December 31 deadline .
He and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen clinched the deal on Christmas Eve after haggling over fishing rights .
Despite the feelgood factor embraced by the UK , over in Brussels the mood struck a more sombre tone , with Ms von der Leyen underlining that she felt `` relief that we can finally put Brexit behind us '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ only at the last minute did it emerge that a deal could be struck , with Mr Johnson previously warning the UK to prepare for no deal .
The wrangling over issues such as the so-called level playing field and fishing rights left a deal in jeopardy , leading some MEPs in the European Parliament to accuse the bloc of stifling Britain , as it sought to leave .
One critic was Finnish MEP Laura Huhtasaari , who argued `` inspirational '' Britain was `` striving for more freedom and democracy '' as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
She told Parliament that once the UK left , the `` EU will never be the same again '' , because Britain will `` reach its full potential , and that will cause criticism against the EU in the remaining 27 member states '' .
Mrs Huhtasaari added : “ People are going to realise that the current technocratic EU is just holding us back .
“ A truly sovereign state is able to decide on its own laws , taxes and borders .
“ As a member of the EU , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which creates a severe democratic deficit.
” JUST IN : Britons furious as Leo Varadkar issues EU threat to UK Fears other nations will leave the bloc have been rife in the years following the historic Brexit referendum in 2016 .
Eurosceptics in countries such as France , Finland , the Netherlands and Italy have vocalised their anger at the bloc , with some arguing major changes to how the union is run were needed .
One major fallout occurred as a result of the bloc 's decision to set up the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and grants to help the countries hardest hit by Covid-19 .
Around €750billion ( £668billion ) was offered , but talks over the fund sparked a bitter divide between those suffering the effects of economic decline , and those demanding more `` frugal '' packages be offered .
DO N'T MISS : ‘ Clock ticking ’ on Brexit agreement for the Rock after Boris ’ deal [ ANALYSIS ] Barnier warns Britain it will not be the end of disputes after deal [ INSIGHT ] Brexit deal warning : EU plotting to lure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] Denmark , Sweden , Finland , the Netherlands and Austria all pushed back on an initial package of grants worth €500billion ( £450billon ) , reportedly causing French President Emmanuel Macron to unleash his anger .
Those against the move included the Netherlands ' Prime Minister Mark Rutte , who was caught on camera telling Dutch workers the country would not give financial support to Rome or Madrid .
The video sparked outrage among those inside the bloc , yet Caroline de Gruyter - a Dutch author - said the row was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was adopting a hardline stance against the EU .

Michael Gove discusses changes to EU travel after Brexit
Prime Minister Boris Johnson told the UK that a historic trade deal between the EU and Britain had finally been reached. The deal now needs to pass through Parliament before this week's December 31 deadline. He and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen clinched the deal on Christmas Eve after haggling over fishing rights.
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Despite the feelgood factor embraced by the UK, over in Brussels the mood struck a more sombre tone, with Ms von der Leyen underlining that she felt "relief that we can finally put Brexit behind us". Debate had continued for months, and only at the last minute did it emerge that a deal could be struck, with Mr Johnson previously warning the UK to prepare for no deal. The wrangling over issues such as the so-called level playing field and fishing rights left a deal in jeopardy, leading some MEPs in the European Parliament to accuse the bloc of stifling Britain, as it sought to leave. One critic was Finnish MEP Laura Huhtasaari, who argued "inspirational" Britain was "striving for more freedom and democracy" as negotiations over trade begun earlier this year.
Brexit triumph: MEP taunts EU in warning shot to Brussels over 'severe democratic deficit'
Brexit news: Ursula von der Leyen announces the deal
She told Parliament that once the UK left, the "EU will never be the same again", because Britain will "reach its full potential, and that will cause criticism against the EU in the remaining 27 member states". Mrs Huhtasaari added: “People are going to realise that the current technocratic EU is just holding us back. “A truly sovereign state is able to decide on its own laws, taxes and borders. “As a member of the EU, a nation state relinquishes these rights, which creates a severe democratic deficit.” JUST IN: Britons furious as Leo Varadkar issues EU threat to UK
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The Finnish MEP is a staunch critic of the EU
Fears other nations will leave the bloc have been rife in the years following the historic Brexit referendum in 2016. Eurosceptics in countries such as France, Finland, the Netherlands and Italy have vocalised their anger at the bloc, with some arguing major changes to how the union is run were needed. One major fallout occurred as a result of the bloc's decision to set up the coronavirus fund, which was used as loans and grants to help the countries hardest hit by Covid-19. Around €750billion (£668billion) was offered, but talks over the fund sparked a bitter divide between those suffering the effects of economic decline, and those demanding more "frugal" packages be offered. DON'T MISS:
‘Clock ticking’ on Brexit agreement for the Rock after Boris’ deal [ANALYSIS]
Barnier warns Britain it will not be the end of disputes after deal [INSIGHT]
Brexit deal warning: EU plotting to lure UK back by weakening London [UPDATE]
Trade deals the UK has
Denmark, Sweden, Finland, the Netherlands and Austria all pushed back on an initial package of grants worth €500billion (£450billon), reportedly causing French President Emmanuel Macron to unleash his anger. Those against the move included the Netherlands' Prime Minister Mark Rutte, who was caught on camera telling Dutch workers the country would not give financial support to Rome or Madrid. The video sparked outrage among those inside the bloc, yet Caroline de Gruyter - a Dutch author - said the row was just another example of how the Netherlands was adopting a hardline stance against the EU.
Brexit news: Boris Johnson confirms deal


thedailyexpress--2020-12-28--Britons furious as Varadkar threatens EU could BLOCK Britain from market 'Shut up Leo!'

The uproar comes after the Irish deputy prime minister said while the UK has the power to deviate from EU regulations they will have to `` largely '' follow European rules .
Mr Varadkar added the UK 's access to the European market is `` not unconditional '' , as laid out in the 1,246-page treaty .
Readers were quick to respond to the Express.co.uk article and make their fury known .
One furious reader said : “ Varadkar seems to have misunderstood .
Any sanctions are reciprocal .
Mess with the UK and you 'll be messed with .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the ROI is isolated from the other 26 vassal states of the bloc.
” Another also claimed the former Irish prime minister was “ blowing noises from both ends ” .
They added : “ So backdoor Leo threatens again , and is blowing noises from both ends .
“ For business IF you export to any foreign country you sell on their standards and rules , not the UK 's .
“ If you sell to China you do it under their regulations , so it 's no different to the EU.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ignore Mr Varadkar claiming the UK should do what is in their best interests .
READ MORE : ‘ Clock ticking ’ on Brexit agreement for the Rock after Boris ’ deal They said : “ More bull coming from someone we never voted for so we will carry on doing what is best for the UK and not what some jumped up person expects us to do.
” Another suggested Ireland and EU still need UK trade adding : “ Varadkar will not shut up , will he ?
“ The truth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ needed the UK trade to avoid mass employment problems in farming , manufacturing and tourism .
“ The bloc still does not have a budget approved for the coming years so Brussels has no real idea of future finances.
” DO N'T MISS : EU to meet TODAY for provisional agreement - Barnier expects backlash [ LATEST ] How Frost and Boris secured the deal - Story behind Brexit deal [ INSIGHT ] EU declares Brexit fishing victory says Von der Leyen [ REVEAL ] A final person fumed : “ Varadkar just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mouth , does he ?
“ A posing , preening , pouting , popinjay trying to stay in the spotlight.
” Yesterday Mr Varadkar said the UK has the sovereignty and power to deviate from EU rules and regulations , but added : “ If they do deviate too much then they lose access to the market and the truth is the lunar pull is n't a bad analogy .
`` You ca n't get away from the obvious geography that Britain is in Europe , geographically , and if Europe is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ smaller , is the moon .
”

Brexit: Michael Gove defends fishing arrangements in deal
The uproar comes after the Irish deputy prime minister said while the UK has the power to deviate from EU regulations they will have to "largely" follow European rules. Mr Varadkar added the UK's access to the European market is "not unconditional", as laid out in the 1,246-page treaty.
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Readers were quick to respond to the Express.co.uk article and make their fury known. One furious reader said: “Varadkar seems to have misunderstood. Any sanctions are reciprocal. Mess with the UK and you'll be messed with. “Without the UK land bridge, the ROI is isolated from the other 26 vassal states of the bloc.” Another also claimed the former Irish prime minister was “blowing noises from both ends”.
More than 1,800 readers reacted to the story
Leo Varadkar
They added: “So backdoor Leo threatens again, and is blowing noises from both ends. “For business IF you export to any foreign country you sell on their standards and rules, not the UK's. “If you sell to China you do it under their regulations, so it's no different to the EU.” A third argued the UK should ignore Mr Varadkar claiming the UK should do what is in their best interests. READ MORE: ‘Clock ticking’ on Brexit agreement for the Rock after Boris’ deal
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Readers have rallied round to support the UK and Boris Johnson
They said: “More bull coming from someone we never voted for so we will carry on doing what is best for the UK and not what some jumped up person expects us to do.” Another suggested Ireland and EU still need UK trade adding: “Varadkar will not shut up, will he? “The truth of the matter is that the EU needed the UK trade to avoid mass employment problems in farming, manufacturing and tourism. “The bloc still does not have a budget approved for the coming years so Brussels has no real idea of future finances.” DON'T MISS:
EU to meet TODAY for provisional agreement - Barnier expects backlash [LATEST]
How Frost and Boris secured the deal - Story behind Brexit deal [INSIGHT]
EU declares Brexit fishing victory says Von der Leyen [REVEAL]
Brexit deal timeline
A final person fumed: “Varadkar just doesn't know when to shut his mouth, does he? “A posing, preening, pouting, popinjay trying to stay in the spotlight.” Yesterday Mr Varadkar said the UK has the sovereignty and power to deviate from EU rules and regulations, but added: “If they do deviate too much then they lose access to the market and the truth is the lunar pull isn't a bad analogy. "You can't get away from the obvious geography that Britain is in Europe, geographically, and if Europe is the Earth then Britain, which is much smaller, is the moon.”
Brexit: Fishing industry chief criticises detail of deal


thedailyexpress--2020-12-28--Barnier to overthrow Macron? EU chief reveals plot to 'spark momentum' in French politics

After securing a trade deal with the UK , the EU ’ s chief negotiator stated his desire to return to French politics .
Mr Barnier , a former minister in France , stated the centre-right in the country needs new momentum .
Ahead of the 2022 elections , Mr Barnier ’ s return could pose a risk to Mr Macron ’ s re-election chances .
In an interview with French newspaper Le Figaro , the EU 's chief negotiator said : “ I will tell about those four extraordinary years this spring in a book-diary.
” He also added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ necessary for the balance of our country and for the French political debate ” .
In the same interview , Mr Barnier hinted there could be disputes between the UK and EU in the near future .
The deal was agreed this month but will be up for review in 2026 where the two sides may make certain amendments .
However , it will automatically roll over unless one of the two sides decides to revoke the agreement in 2026 .
Mr Barnier added : “ There is evidently a risk but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accusations here .
“ This agreement must be the basis of a smart and sustainable cooperation between Europe and the UK.
” One of the areas within the deal which has come under intense scrutiny is the issue of fisheries .
JUST IN : EU to meet TODAY for provisional agreement - Barnier expects backlash The two sides agreed this month that EU fleets would be given access to the UK ’ s waters over a five-and-a-half-year period .
During the period , European fishermen will have their quota share reduced by 25 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fishing groups who had called for a quota return of closer to 60 percent .
Mr Macron had been one of the leading voices calling for continued access to the UK ’ s waters .
Despite the UK being an independent state , Mr Macron had called for continued access in order to protect French fleets who rely heavily on the waters around Britain .
DO N'T MISS Brexit deal warning : EU plotting to lure UK back by weakening London [ Latest ] Michael Gove hits back at BBC Breakfast host after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on 'selling UK fishing down river ' with Brexit deal [ Insight ] Mr Macron had also vowed to protect fishermen ahead of the election in 2022 .
While the EU has only been forced to return 25 percent of their quota , the chairman of the National Federation of Fishermen ’ s Organisations has called the deal a “ betrayal ” .
Andrew Locker told the Today programme : “ I am angry , disappointed and betrayed .
“ Boris Johnson promised us the rights to all the fish that swim in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ got a fraction of that .
“ We are absolutely worse off .
When we were within the EU we used to trade fish with the EU .
“ We used to swap things we did n't use with fish that they did n't use and that enabled us to put together an annual fishing plan .
`` What we have got now is a fraction of what we were promised through Brexit .

Emmanuel Macron has 'overplayed his hand' says Richard Tice
After securing a trade deal with the UK, the EU’s chief negotiator stated his desire to return to French politics. Mr Barnier, a former minister in France, stated the centre-right in the country needs new momentum. Ahead of the 2022 elections, Mr Barnier’s return could pose a risk to Mr Macron’s re-election chances.
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In an interview with French newspaper Le Figaro, the EU's chief negotiator said: “I will tell about those four extraordinary years this spring in a book-diary.” He also added a new change in politics may be “necessary for the balance of our country and for the French political debate”. In the same interview, Mr Barnier hinted there could be disputes between the UK and EU in the near future. The deal was agreed this month but will be up for review in 2026 where the two sides may make certain amendments.
Brexit news: Michel Barnier hints at return
Brexit news: Michel Barnier stated politics may need a new momentum
However, it will automatically roll over unless one of the two sides decides to revoke the agreement in 2026. Mr Barnier added: “There is evidently a risk but I won’t make any unfounded accusations here. “This agreement must be the basis of a smart and sustainable cooperation between Europe and the UK.” One of the areas within the deal which has come under intense scrutiny is the issue of fisheries. JUST IN: EU to meet TODAY for provisional agreement - Barnier expects backlash
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Brexit news: Fishermen claimed they have been sold out
The two sides agreed this month that EU fleets would be given access to the UK’s waters over a five-and-a-half-year period. During the period, European fishermen will have their quota share reduced by 25 percent much to the anger of UK fishing groups who had called for a quota return of closer to 60 percent. Mr Macron had been one of the leading voices calling for continued access to the UK’s waters. Despite the UK being an independent state, Mr Macron had called for continued access in order to protect French fleets who rely heavily on the waters around Britain. DON'T MISS
Brexit deal warning: EU plotting to lure UK back by weakening London [Latest]
Michael Gove hits back at BBC Breakfast host after dodging probe [Update]
Gove grilled on 'selling UK fishing down river' with Brexit deal [Insight]
Brexit news: Michel Barnier
Brexit news: Michel Barnier was an ex-minister
Mr Macron had also vowed to protect fishermen ahead of the election in 2022. While the EU has only been forced to return 25 percent of their quota, the chairman of the National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations has called the deal a “betrayal”. Andrew Locker told the Today programme: “I am angry, disappointed and betrayed. “Boris Johnson promised us the rights to all the fish that swim in our exclusive economic zone and we have got a fraction of that.
Fisheries zones
“We are absolutely worse off. When we were within the EU we used to trade fish with the EU. “We used to swap things we didn't use with fish that they didn't use and that enabled us to put together an annual fishing plan. "What we have got now is a fraction of what we were promised through Brexit.
Brexit news: MPs will return this week to vote on the deal


thedailyexpress--2020-12-28--Could Labour Remainers DESTROY Boris's Brexit deal? Starmer desperately quelling dissent

On December 30 , just a day before a trade deal needs to be agreed by Parliament , MPs will vote on whether or not to accept the terms Prime Minister Boris Johnson , and his chief Brexit negotiator David Frost , got from Brussels .
Should a deal not be secured , the UK will leave the bloc with no deal - seeing the nation trade with the EU on World Trade Organisation ( WTO ) terms .
This is what many in the Labour Party are vehemently against , as they believe the UK must have a trade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officially on January 1 .
Such is Labour desire to secure the deal , leader Sir Keir has demanded all MPs back Mr Johnson 's deal - despite many politicians in the party ardent Remainers .
As many as 20 MPs have reportedly admitted they could abstain from the vote , including the likes of Ben Bradshaw , Kevin Brennan , Neil Coyle , Rupa Huq , Geraint Davies and Clive Efford , the Telegraph claims .
It is feared , among some MPs , that they could lose voter confidence in backing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pro-EU areas across the country , including in London .
Mr Coyle , MP for Bermondsey and Old Southwark , told Politico that he was n't `` voting for something that so clearly lets down British people , British business , and the UK as a whole '' .
He added that Mr Johnson 's `` downgrade for the UK should not have any Labour fingerprints on it '' .
Another added : `` We do n't want to get Brexit blood on our hands . ''
The Labour voting crisis comes despite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goes against the three-line whip on the vote would be axed from frontbench duties .
Other fears come from pro-Jeremy Corbyn MPs , who will likely rebel against Sir Keir as a result of the former leader 's treatment after he had the whip withdrawn .
JUST IN : Labour humiliated : Brexiteers mock Starmer for backing Boris ' deal Yet , it appears unlikely anyone within the Shadow Cabinet will resign , party insiders claim .
In moving to accept Mr Johnson 's deal , Sir Keir said the party would back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was a `` thin '' pact .
He added : `` At a moment of such national significance , it is just not credible for Labour to be on the sidelines . ''
Mr Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen clinched the deal on Christmas Eve after haggling over fishing rights .
DO N'T MISS : Dodds sparks fury after claiming Starmer would 've got a better deal [ ANALYSIS ] Brexit LIVE : UK fishermen tear apart Boris Johnson 's 'disaster ' deal [ INSIGHT ] Brexiteer SAVAGES Labour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lenin ' [ UPDATE ] Despite the feelgood factor embraced by the UK , over in Brussels the mood struck a more sombre tone , with Ms von der Leyen underlining that she felt `` relief that we can finally put Brexit behind us '' .
Mr Johnson , meanwhile , proudly exclaimed how the UK was now on course to take back control with the new deal , which both sides had wished for since negotiations on trade began earlier this year .
Although the fishing industry represents just 0.1 percent of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ symbolic issue given Brexiteers ' calls for more sovereignty outside of the EU .

Brexit: Campbell says Labour ‘should not support deal’
On December 30, just a day before a trade deal needs to be agreed by Parliament, MPs will vote on whether or not to accept the terms Prime Minister Boris Johnson, and his chief Brexit negotiator David Frost, got from Brussels. Should a deal not be secured, the UK will leave the bloc with no deal - seeing the nation trade with the EU on World Trade Organisation (WTO) terms. This is what many in the Labour Party are vehemently against, as they believe the UK must have a trade pact secured with Brussels before it exits officially on January 1.
Trending
Such is Labour desire to secure the deal, leader Sir Keir has demanded all MPs back Mr Johnson's deal - despite many politicians in the party ardent Remainers. As many as 20 MPs have reportedly admitted they could abstain from the vote, including the likes of Ben Bradshaw, Kevin Brennan, Neil Coyle, Rupa Huq, Geraint Davies and Clive Efford, the Telegraph claims. It is feared, among some MPs, that they could lose voter confidence in backing a Brexit deal, particularly those in pro-EU areas across the country, including in London. Mr Coyle, MP for Bermondsey and Old Southwark, told Politico that he wasn't "voting for something that so clearly lets down British people, British business, and the UK as a whole".
Starmer faces Labour rebellion on Brexit vote as Remainers in party vow 'I'm not voting'
Brexit: Boris Johnson announces the deal
He added that Mr Johnson's "downgrade for the UK should not have any Labour fingerprints on it". Another added: "We don't want to get Brexit blood on our hands." The Labour voting crisis comes despite Sir Keir threatening any Shadow Minister who goes against the three-line whip on the vote would be axed from frontbench duties. Other fears come from pro-Jeremy Corbyn MPs, who will likely rebel against Sir Keir as a result of the former leader's treatment after he had the whip withdrawn. JUST IN: Labour humiliated: Brexiteers mock Starmer for backing Boris' deal
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Michel Barnier led the EU's side during trade talks
Yet, it appears unlikely anyone within the Shadow Cabinet will resign, party insiders claim. In moving to accept Mr Johnson's deal, Sir Keir said the party would back the Government, despite him arguing it was a "thin" pact. He added: "At a moment of such national significance, it is just not credible for Labour to be on the sidelines." Mr Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen clinched the deal on Christmas Eve after haggling over fishing rights. DON'T MISS:
Dodds sparks fury after claiming Starmer would've got a better deal [ANALYSIS]
Brexit LIVE: UK fishermen tear apart Boris Johnson's 'disaster' deal [INSIGHT]
Brexiteer SAVAGES Labour as ‘unappealing blend of Lennon and Lenin' [UPDATE]
How Daily Express covered Brexit
Despite the feelgood factor embraced by the UK, over in Brussels the mood struck a more sombre tone, with Ms von der Leyen underlining that she felt "relief that we can finally put Brexit behind us". Mr Johnson, meanwhile, proudly exclaimed how the UK was now on course to take back control with the new deal, which both sides had wished for since negotiations on trade began earlier this year. Although the fishing industry represents just 0.1 percent of the UK economy, it became a symbolic issue given Brexiteers' calls for more sovereignty outside of the EU.
UK trade pacts


thedailyexpress--2020-12-28--Gibraltar panic: ‘Clock ticking’ on Brexit agreement for the Rock after Boris’ deal

The British Overseas Territory is currently negotiating with Madrid to secure a post-Brexit treaty separate to a trade deal secured @ @ @ @ @ .
The deal , which both sides are aiming to secure by New Year 's @ @ @ @ @ the easy flow of people and goods across the border from Spain which underpins the @ @ @ @ @ For Gibraltar , securing a treaty is seen as important because 15,000 people cross into @ @ @ @ @ to work as well as being heavily reliant on imports from the EU .
Without @ @ @ @ @ the movement of goods between Gibraltar and Spain will be subject to customs procedures from @ @ @ @ @ unwanted economic consequences .
Chief Minister Fabian Picardo said on Twitter : “ The days @ @ @ @ @ time is getting shorter .
He added : `` For us ... the clock is @ @ @ @ @ he was `` optimistic that we will be able to finalise that agreement . ''

Brexit: Picardo says Gibraltar will ‘thrive’ regardless
The British Overseas Territory is currently negotiating with Madrid to secure a post-Brexit treaty separate to a trade deal secured between the UK and EU. The deal, which both sides are aiming to secure by New Year's Eve, would allow for the easy flow of people and goods across the border from Spain which underpins the economy of The Rock.
Trending
For Gibraltar, securing a treaty is seen as important because 15,000 people cross into Gibraltar from Spain every day to work as well as being heavily reliant on imports from the EU. Without an agreement in place, the movement of goods between Gibraltar and Spain will be subject to customs procedures from January 1st which could bring unwanted economic consequences. Chief Minister Fabian Picardo said on Twitter: “The days are getting longer but our time is getting shorter. He added: "For us... the clock is still ticking” making clear he was "optimistic that we will be able to finalise that agreement."
Talks between both sides are ongoing
The Rock is part of the UK
Whitehall sources close to the Brexit trade negotiations told Express.co.uk the UK Government remained “hopeful” a deal could be secured with Spain over Gibraltar, adding: “We are hoping for a breakthrough.” Pedro Sanchez, the Prime Minister of Spain said in a statement: “Spain and the United Kingdom are continuing dialogue to reach an accord on Gibraltar.” But Spain’s Foreign Minister Arancha González Laya expressed a more cautious approach and warned The Rock would become an EU external border “with all of its consequences” if a deal is not secured. Ms González Laya made clear, however: “We prefer a deal and will work until the last minute to get a deal on Gibraltar.” READ MORE: EU to meet TODAY for provisional agreement - Barnier expects backlash
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Gibraltar's government are currently looking at all measures
Mr Picardo has long made clear he wants to follow a “different path from the UK and join the European customs union or even the Schengen Area, which has abolished border controls for its members.” Madrid’s El País newspaper claims such a Schengen style deal is in the final stages of negotiation. Spain ceded Gibraltar, a rocky enclave near its southern tip, to Britain in 1713 after a war, but claims sovereignty over it. However, Madrid has agreed to put the issue of its sovereignty claim to one side, for now, to focus on the opportunity to keep the border with Gibraltar open. DON'T MISS:
How Frost and Boris secured the deal - Story behind Brexit deal [INSIGHT]
EU declares Brexit fishing victory with Von der Leyen [REVEAL]
Britain and EU forced to wait before clinching historic trade deal [LATEST]
Gibraltar could stay part of the EU


thedailyexpress--2020-12-28--Barnier warns Britain this deal will NOT be the end of disputes with UK 'there is a risk'

The EU ’ s chief Brexit envoy struck a cautious tone when looking to the future by warning of potential conflicts between Brussels and the UK .
His comments came ahead of the special sitting of the House of Commons on Wednesday when MPs will be called back from their Christmas break to debate over and vote on the Brexit trade deal .
In an interview with French daily newspaper Le Figaro , Mr Barnier was asked if he felt happy about a deal being secured with Britain ahead of the end of the transition period .
He responded : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be happy about a divorce ?
” Mr Barnier went on to suggest the deal would by no means prevent arguments between both sides .
He said : “ There is evidently a risk .
“ This agreement must be the basis of a smart and sustainable cooperation between Europe and the UK.
” His lack of optimism about the deal was similar to the words spoken by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as she announced the agreement on Christmas Eve .
She said it was a day of relief as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but she was keen to point out the benefits of the club that the UK would miss out on in the future .
READ MORE : Michael Gove hits back at BBC Breakfast host after dodging probe Ms von der Leyen was mindful that if the EU was seen to be allowing the UK to keep benefits of the bloc after it had left , it would send a powerful message to other member states who may themselves consider quitting .
While the deal was welcomed by many in the UK , fishing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ terms .
On Monday Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove rejected claims that Britain 's fishermen will be worse off as a result of the post-Brexit trade deal .
In an interview with the BBC Radio 4 Today programme , he said : `` I do n't accept that .
DO N'T MISS Brexiteer legal boffins on deal : This is what they have found so far [ ANALYSIS ] Freedom from EU gives us so many opportunities , says SIR JOHN REDWOOD [ COMMENT ] 'We 've been sacrificed ! '
Fishing boss @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] “ I think it is fair to say that we are in a stronger position than we were in the EU and in the common fisheries policy .
`` In the Common Fisheries Policy ( CFP ) we were only able to access about 50 percent of the fish in our waters .
“ It is the case that we are now getting a significant uptick in that number , so we will have by 2026 about two-thirds of the fish in our waters .
`` This staged process gives us a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fleet , to invest in our coastal communities , and , of course , in due course we will have that opportunity to increase that quota even further . ''
Earlier , on the same radio programme , the chairman of the National Federation of Fishermen ’ s Organisations argued skippers will be `` absolutely worse off '' as a result of the trade pact .
Andrew Locker said Boris Johnson had `` betrayed '' the longsuffering industry .
He said : `` I am angry , disappointed and betrayed .
“ Boris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the fish that swim in our exclusive economic zone and we have got a fraction of that .

Michael Gove discusses changes to EU travel after Brexit
The EU’s chief Brexit envoy struck a cautious tone when looking to the future by warning of potential conflicts between Brussels and the UK. His comments came ahead of the special sitting of the House of Commons on Wednesday when MPs will be called back from their Christmas break to debate over and vote on the Brexit trade deal.
Trending
In an interview with French daily newspaper Le Figaro, Mr Barnier was asked if he felt happy about a deal being secured with Britain ahead of the end of the transition period. He responded: “Yes and no. Can we be happy about a divorce?” Mr Barnier went on to suggest the deal would by no means prevent arguments between both sides. He said: “There is evidently a risk.
Michel Barnier has warned of disputes between the EU and the UK in the future
Barnier issued a Brexit warning to the Prime Minister
“But I won’t make any unfounded accusations here. “This agreement must be the basis of a smart and sustainable cooperation between Europe and the UK.” His lack of optimism about the deal was similar to the words spoken by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as she announced the agreement on Christmas Eve. She said it was a day of relief as negotiations had concluded with a deal, but she was keen to point out the benefits of the club that the UK would miss out on in the future. READ MORE: Michael Gove hits back at BBC Breakfast host after dodging probe
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Barnier said a divorce is never happy, referring to Brexit
Ms von der Leyen was mindful that if the EU was seen to be allowing the UK to keep benefits of the bloc after it had left, it would send a powerful message to other member states who may themselves consider quitting. While the deal was welcomed by many in the UK, fishing bosses were far from satisfied with the terms. On Monday Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove rejected claims that Britain's fishermen will be worse off as a result of the post-Brexit trade deal. In an interview with the BBC Radio 4 Today programme, he said: "I don't accept that. DON'T MISS
Brexiteer legal boffins on deal: This is what they have found so far [ANALYSIS]
Freedom from EU gives us so many opportunities, says SIR JOHN REDWOOD [COMMENT]
'We've been sacrificed!' Fishing boss rails against UK Brexit betrayal [INSIGHT]
Michael Gove rejected the idea that fishermen would not benefit from the deal
“I think it is fair to say that we are in a stronger position than we were in the EU and in the common fisheries policy. "In the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) we were only able to access about 50 percent of the fish in our waters. “It is the case that we are now getting a significant uptick in that number, so we will have by 2026 about two-thirds of the fish in our waters. "This staged process gives us a chance to increase the size of the fleet, to invest in our coastal communities, and, of course, in due course we will have that opportunity to increase that quota even further."
Brexit: Michel Barnier outlines ‘four pillars’ of deal
Earlier, on the same radio programme, the chairman of the National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations argued skippers will be "absolutely worse off" as a result of the trade pact. Andrew Locker said Boris Johnson had "betrayed" the longsuffering industry. He said: "I am angry, disappointed and betrayed. “Boris Johnson promised us the rights to all the fish that swim in our exclusive economic zone and we have got a fraction of that.
Michael Gove said the deal would be good for fishermen


thedailyexpress--2020-12-28--Brexit deal warning: EU plotting to lure UK back into bloc by weakening London - expert

The Government is touting the deal unveiled on Christmas Eve as having delivered on the Prime Minister 's election pledge to `` get Brexit done '' .
However , Professor David Blake suggested Lord David Frost and his team had paid too much attention to fishing rights and not enough attention to the issue of access for financial services , during negotiations - a decision he feared could have consequences further down the line .
The Professor of Economics at Cass Business School told Express.co.uk : `` The real issue for me is the difference between the treatment of goods @ @ @ @ @ @ @ zero-tariff deal in goods trade where the EU has a £100bn surplus , but in services – where we have a £20 billion surplus – there isn ’ t a solid agreement .
`` This is especially damaging for financial services.
” The UK was losing financial services free trade ‘ passporting ’ and this is being replaced by a less comprehensive and secure ‘ equivalence ’ agreement which can be withdrawn by the EU at 30 days ’ notice , Prof Blake explained .
He added : “ The negotiators have spent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for fishing which has a five-and-a-half year transition – but we have no corresponding transitional agreement for services .
`` For me this is the biggest weakness in this deal .
JUST IN : War without bullets ' : Expert 's warning after hackers target US “ We have the world ’ s top financial centre , but the French strategy is to try to persuade large chunks of business to move to Paris .
`` By not giving services the same long term security as the goods sector , the deal will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prof Blake said : “ It 's unbelievable that this has been left out and our negotiating team has accepted this.
” DO N'T MISS Furious Tory Remainer REFUSES to back Boris Johnson ’ s Brexit deal [ ANALYSIS ] Nigel Farage SAVAGES Boris Johnson for ‘ betraying ’ fishermen [ INSIGHT ] Brexit predictions for 2021 : Psychic predicts 'economy will boom ' [ UPDATE ] “ Can ’ t they see that this will put pressure on banks in London to open branches in the EU and gradually over time this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strength to Paris and Frankfurt ?
“ We should not forget that at the heart of this is a long term plan to make Brexit so harsh that the UK will beg to rejoin the European Union at some future date - and there will be many Remainers itching for this to happen.
” Nevertheless , he acknowledged : `` The deal is much better than I initially feared given how bad things were at the beginning of the year .
`` We had the trap of the Withdrawal Agreement – and we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , having agreed to pay the £40billion divorce bill and given away our assets in the European Investment Bank . ''
The agreement , which is set out in the course of a 1,256-page document , will go before Parliament on Wednesday , in advance of the final day of the post-Brexit transition period on December 31 .
Given Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has already indicated his party will back legislation to ratify it , the deal is all but guaranteed to get the thumbs-up .

Boris Johnson: Brexit deal is ‘glad tidings of great joy’
The Government is touting the deal unveiled on Christmas Eve as having delivered on the Prime Minister's election pledge to "get Brexit done". However, Professor David Blake suggested Lord David Frost and his team had paid too much attention to fishing rights and not enough attention to the issue of access for financial services, during negotiations - a decision he feared could have consequences further down the line.
Trending
The Professor of Economics at Cass Business School told Express.co.uk: "The real issue for me is the difference between the treatment of goods and services. “We have a zero-tariff deal in goods trade where the EU has a £100bn surplus, but in services – where we have a £20 billion surplus – there isn’t a solid agreement. "This is especially damaging for financial services.”
Boris Johnson touted his document during a Christmas message from Downing Street
Brexit deal: Lord David Frost in Brussels
The UK was losing financial services free trade ‘passporting’ and this is being replaced by a less comprehensive and secure ‘equivalence’ agreement which can be withdrawn by the EU at 30 days’ notice, Prof Blake explained. He added: “The negotiators have spent a lot of time agreeing the terms for fishing which has a five-and-a-half year transition – but we have no corresponding transitional agreement for services. "For me this is the biggest weakness in this deal. JUST IN: War without bullets': Expert's warning after hackers target US
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Michel Barnier, the EU's chief negotiator
“We have the world’s top financial centre, but the French strategy is to try to persuade large chunks of business to move to Paris. "By not giving services the same long term security as the goods sector, the deal will deliberately weaken the City of London.” Prof Blake said: “It's unbelievable that this has been left out and our negotiating team has accepted this.” DON'T MISS
Furious Tory Remainer REFUSES to back Boris Johnson’s Brexit deal [ANALYSIS]
Nigel Farage SAVAGES Boris Johnson for ‘betraying’ fishermen [INSIGHT]
Brexit predictions for 2021: Psychic predicts 'economy will boom' [UPDATE]
Brexit: The EU is trying to weaken the City of London, said Professor Blake
Brexit deal: Sir Keir Starmer has already said Labour will back the agreement
We should not forget that at the heart of this is a long term plan to make Brexit so harsh that the UK will beg to rejoin the European Union at some future date Professor David Blake
“Can’t they see that this will put pressure on banks in London to open branches in the EU and gradually over time this will suck away London’s financial strength to Paris and Frankfurt? “We should not forget that at the heart of this is a long term plan to make Brexit so harsh that the UK will beg to rejoin the European Union at some future date - and there will be many Remainers itching for this to happen.” Nevertheless, he acknowledged: "The deal is much better than I initially feared given how bad things were at the beginning of the year.
Brexit timeline
"We had the trap of the Withdrawal Agreement – and we’d given away all our leverage, having agreed to pay the £40billion divorce bill and given away our assets in the European Investment Bank." The agreement, which is set out in the course of a 1,256-page document, will go before Parliament on Wednesday, in advance of the final day of the post-Brexit transition period on December 31. Given Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has already indicated his party will back legislation to ratify it, the deal is all but guaranteed to get the thumbs-up.
Brexit deal: The European Court of Justice (ECJ) will no longer have jurisdiction in the UK


thedailyexpress--2020-12-28--Gove grilled on 'selling UK fishing down river' with 'hugely disappointing' Brexit deal

Michael Gove has defended the UK Government against claims that the Brexit deal has sparked a `` huge amount of disappointment '' in the fishing sector .
Under the terms of the deal , EU fishing fleets will have their access to UK waters reduced by 25 percent gradually over a transition period of five and a half years .
Sky News host Stephen Dixon confronted Mr Gove about furious reactions from industry officials like The National Federation of Fishermen ’ s Organisations ( NFFO ) chief executive Barrie Deas , who said fishermen had been `` sacrificed '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ industry was actually a key factor in pushing for Brexit .
`` We know that the fishing industry were very pro-Brexit .
`` You 're from a fishing family .
You 've got a vested interest in all of this .
`` There does seem to be a huge amount of disappointment in the fishing sector that you 've , as they see it , sold them down the river , to an extent . ''
READ MORE : Brexit row erupts as Ben Habib claims EU deal has been 'choreographed' Mr Gove @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the people in the fishing sector because life in the Common Fisheries Policy has been very very difficult .
`` But we 're out of the Common Fisheries Policy now , it is the case that under this deal we increase our amount of fish in our own waters that we can catch .
`` Beforehand we could only catch about half of the value of the fish in our waters .
`` Now we can go on to catch two-thirds , and , indeed , in five years ' time we can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Mr Gove said : 'Beforehand we could only catch about half of the value of the fish in our waters . '
He continued : `` So , of course , we would have liked to have been in a position where it was only three years before we could exercise those additional rights .
`` The EU were originally saying it would have to be 14 years .
So we got them down from 14 to five and a half .
`` At the end of those five and a half @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
DO N'T MISS Brexit fishing row : Bridgen issues final ultimatum for EU [ INSIGHT ] 'Imagine if Brexit talks were like this ! '
BBC Simon McCoy in stitches [ VIDEO ] Brexit Japan deal is 'kind UK needs ' as they 'value quality ' says NFU [ EXCLUSIVE ]

Brexit: Michael Gove defends fishing arrangements in deal
Michael Gove has defended the UK Government against claims that the Brexit deal has sparked a "huge amount of disappointment" in the fishing sector. Under the terms of the deal, EU fishing fleets will have their access to UK waters reduced by 25 percent gradually over a transition period of five and a half years. Sky News host Stephen Dixon confronted Mr Gove about furious reactions from industry officials like The National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations (NFFO) chief executive Barrie Deas, who said fishermen had been "sacrificed".
Trending
Mr Dixon said: "The fishing industry was actually a key factor in pushing for Brexit. "We know that the fishing industry were very pro-Brexit. "You're from a fishing family. You've got a vested interest in all of this. "There does seem to be a huge amount of disappointment in the fishing sector that you've, as they see it, sold them down the river, to an extent." READ MORE: Brexit row erupts as Ben Habib claims EU deal has been 'choreographed'
Gove grilled on 'selling UK fishing down river' with 'hugely disappointing' Brexit deal
Under the terms of the deal, EU fishing fleets will have their access to UK waters reduced by 25%
Mr Gove replied: "I do sympathise with the people in the fishing sector because life in the Common Fisheries Policy has been very very difficult. "But we're out of the Common Fisheries Policy now, it is the case that under this deal we increase our amount of fish in our own waters that we can catch. "Beforehand we could only catch about half of the value of the fish in our waters. "Now we can go on to catch two-thirds, and, indeed, in five years' time we can go on to catch even more."
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Mr Gove said: 'Beforehand we could only catch about half of the value of the fish in our waters.'
Michael Gove slammed by host for 'not answering' question
EU countries most reliant on UK fishing waters


thedailyexpress--2020-12-28--Outrage as Lords guzzle bottles of champagne at taxpayers’ expense

Data shows the wealthy unelected members of the House of Lords glugged up to 214 bottles – which were also sold to members of the public – of luxury booze in the taxpayer-funded upper chamber throughout the year .
It comes just weeks after they were left outraged by a cut to their £323 daily allowance to £162 due to the coronavirus pandemic .
The daily payment is made for those who `` actively participate '' in debates , as part of the changed response to Parliament 's working hours .
A stark Freedom of Information request ( FOI ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sold throughout 2020 .
These include the House ’ s own brand Champagne that sells for £50 a bottle , bottles of prosecco and an even pricier HOL Vintage Champagne .
The FOI data requested by Nicola Sturgeon ’ s SNP and shown to this website reveal at least 50 of the Upper Chamber 's bottles of bubbly from its bars and restaurants were sold for £50 each .
Of their own-brand champagne , the figures reveal the peers can also purchase a 125ml glass for £9.10 .
SNP MSP Rona Mackay accused @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Riley at the taxpayers ’ expense ” making clear the upper chamber should be scrapped .
She added : “ Voters will be absolutely fizzing that while thousands of people across Scotland are struggling to just make ends meet , due to the financial impact of this pandemic , these unelected cronies have been guzzling hundreds of bottles of luxury booze .
“ The fact that these Lords , who nobody voted for , have been living the life of Riley at the taxpayers ’ expense , while at the same time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fund , will make voters sick .
“ These Lords are out of control and even more members of the privileged elite , like Baroness Davidson , will be down to join them very shortly as their numbers surge .
“ The Westminster system isn ’ t fit for purpose – it ’ s time to pull the brakes on this gravy train and abolish the Lords for good.
” Duncan Simpson , research director at the Taxpayers Alliance told Express.co.uk UK taxpayers should not be footing the bill so Unelected peers could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ Their Lordships getting tanked up at a time of national crisis is peculiar behaviour .
DO N'T MISS : SNP rumbled after splashing out £4 million a year on civil servant pay [ LATEST ] Nicola Sturgeon HUMILIATED as FM rebuked for THIRD time over stats [ INSIGHT ] Shetland Islands makes independence demand from Scotland [ REVEAL ] '' When you consider the large number of peers who have worked from home over the last nine months , this total seems even more bizarre .
`` In future , all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and restaurants should be scrapped and members should pay the market price for any drinks and food they buy . ''
It comes as former Scottish Tory leader Ruth Davidson is due to take up a seat in the House of Lords after receiving a resettlement grant of £53,725 as she steps down from Holyrood next May .
However , the House of Lords defended the work of the House branding the Nationalists characterisation of the peers “ unfair ” .

Data shows the wealthy unelected members of the House of Lords glugged up to 214 bottles – which were also sold to members of the public – of luxury booze in the taxpayer-funded upper chamber throughout the year. It comes just weeks after they were left outraged by a cut to their £323 daily allowance to £162 due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Trending
The daily payment is made for those who "actively participate" in debates, as part of the changed response to Parliament's working hours. A stark Freedom of Information request (FOI) seen by Express.co.uk reveals 214 bottles were sold throughout 2020. These include the House’s own brand Champagne that sells for £50 a bottle, bottles of prosecco and an even pricier HOL Vintage Champagne. The FOI data requested by Nicola Sturgeon’s SNP and shown to this website reveal at least 50 of the Upper Chamber's bottles of bubbly from its bars and restaurants were sold for £50 each.
New FOI data reveals the Lords behaviour
The FOI request was made to the House of Lords by the SNP
Of their own-brand champagne, the figures reveal the peers can also purchase a 125ml glass for £9.10. SNP MSP Rona Mackay accused the Lords of “living the life of Riley at the taxpayers’ expense” making clear the upper chamber should be scrapped. She added: “Voters will be absolutely fizzing that while thousands of people across Scotland are struggling to just make ends meet, due to the financial impact of this pandemic, these unelected cronies have been guzzling hundreds of bottles of luxury booze. “The fact that these Lords, who nobody voted for, have been living the life of Riley at the taxpayers’ expense, while at the same time pleading poverty and begging for a hardship fund, will make voters sick. READ MORE: SNP dealt crushing Scottish independence hammer blow over Union
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Rona Mackay MSP complained about the FOI findings
214 bottles of Bubbly were purchased in 2020
"When you consider the large number of peers who have worked from home over the last nine months, this total seems even more bizarre. "In future, all taxpayer subsidies for Lords and Commons bars and restaurants should be scrapped and members should pay the market price for any drinks and food they buy." It comes as former Scottish Tory leader Ruth Davidson is due to take up a seat in the House of Lords after receiving a resettlement grant of £53,725 as she steps down from Holyrood next May. However, the House of Lords defended the work of the House branding the Nationalists characterisation of the peers “unfair”.
The Taxpayers Alliance blasted the findings


thedailyexpress--2020-12-29--Tory Brexiteer explains how Boris can build ‘bigger’ UK fishing industry in snub to EU

A post-Brexit agreement on trade and other issues including fishing was agreed just a week before the transition period between the UK and European Union will end .
The deal marks a new era for the UK after 40 years of EU membership .
But Sir John has highlighted how Prime Minister Boris Johnson should now look to create a larger fishing industry in the UK .
Taking to Twitter , the Tory MP wrote : “ Government should set out plans for a much bigger UK fishing industry and better marine environment protection .
“ Bring on the plans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as well as replacing imports .
“ Coastal communities need more jobs and businesses not hand outs.
” The new Brexit trade deal will come into force on 1 January .
Fishing industry leaders have warned that the sector will face long-lasting damage under the new deal .
The National Federation of Fishermen ’ s Organisations ( NFFO ) said “ the Government caved in on fish ” .
READ MORE : Merkel backs Johnson 's Brexit deal as Germany gloats over EU27 unity '' What we have got now is a fraction @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We are going to really , really struggle this year . ''
Yesterday , Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove pledged to give fishermen “ a major funding package ” to help them take full advantage of Brexit .
Writing in The Scotsman , Mr Gove said British fisheries were entitled to about half of the fish in the country ’ s waters at the moment .
But he argued that by 2026 this would rise to two-thirds .
Mr Gove said the new deal gives Britain “ control over who comes into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the “ best possible deal ” for the fishing industry .

Brexit: Michael Gove defends fishing arrangements in deal
A post-Brexit agreement on trade and other issues including fishing was agreed just a week before the transition period between the UK and European Union will end. The deal marks a new era for the UK after 40 years of EU membership.
Trending
But Sir John has highlighted how Prime Minister Boris Johnson should now look to create a larger fishing industry in the UK. Taking to Twitter, the Tory MP wrote: “Government should set out plans for a much bigger UK fishing industry and better marine environment protection. “Bring on the plans for food and fish processing and exporting as well as replacing imports. “Coastal communities need more jobs and businesses not hand outs.”
The Brexit deal marks a new era for the UK after 40 years of EU membership
Sir John has highlighted how the Government should now look to create a larger fishing industry
On Monday, EU ambassadors unanimously approved the post-Brexit deal. The new Brexit trade deal will come into force on 1 January. Fishing industry leaders have warned that the sector will face long-lasting damage under the new deal. The National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations (NFFO) said “the Government caved in on fish”. READ MORE: Merkel backs Johnson's Brexit deal as Germany gloats over EU27 unity
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Michael Gove pledged to give fishermen “a major funding package”
Sir John Redwood has outlined how the Government could create a “much bigger” UK fishing industry
"What we have got now is a fraction of what we were promised through Brexit. We are going to really, really struggle this year." Yesterday, Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove pledged to give fishermen “a major funding package” to help them take full advantage of Brexit. Writing in The Scotsman, Mr Gove said British fisheries were entitled to about half of the fish in the country’s waters at the moment. But he argued that by 2026 this would rise to two-thirds. Mr Gove said the new deal gives Britain “control over who comes into our territorial waters” and insisted it is the “best possible deal” for the fishing industry.
Michael Gove said the new deal gives Britain “control over who comes into our territorial waters”


thedailyexpress--2020-12-29--Victory! UK heading for post-Brexit BOOM after signing new trade deals worth £900 billion

The colossal figure comes as Trade Secretary Liz Truss signed off a new £18.6 billion tie-up with Turkey , meaning the UK now has new agreements in place with 62 countries around the world .
And there are multi-billion free trade deals with America , Canada and Australia in the pipeline for 2021 .
Together they could boost the UK economy by at least £100 billion over the coming decade , according to analysts .
Writing in the Daily Express , former Business Secretary Andrea Leadsom , says that the UK ’ s ability to secure it ’ s own @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , means that the “ sunlit uplands ” are on the horizon .
She says Boris Johnson ’ s “ phenominal ” £660 billion trade deal with Brussels is the “ catalyst for the UK to redefine our place in the world ” .
“ Let us seize the opportunities that our new position brings , ” she says .
Let ’ s use this as the positive push for our post-COVID recovery .
The Roaring Twenties can now truly begin !
” With just three days to go until the Brexit transition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) hailed a “ new starting point ” for the UK ’ s relationship with the EU .
In a call with European Council president Charles Michel the Prime Minister welcomed the agreement as a fresh start “ between sovereign equals ” .
“ We looked forward to the formal ratification of the agreement and to working together on shared priorities , such as tackling climate change , ” the prime minister added .
It came after ambassadors representing the 27 EU member states unanimously approved the trade deal , which was secured @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 31 December deadline .
The approval means the trade deal can take effect provisionally , though the European Parliament will formally vote on it in January .
READ MORE : Brexit rebellion : DUP to vote AGAINST Boris trade deal MPs will be recalled to parliament to vote on the agreement tomorrow ( Wed ) and currently only 10 Tories are expected to rebel .
But Tory grandee Lord Heseltine has urged MPs and peers to abstain from the vote , warning the deal would inflict “ lasting damage ” on the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ described as a “ thin ” deal .
However , Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has said his party will support it , meaning it is expected to be approved and come into force on 1 January .
The agreement with Turkey , which will be formerly signed later this week , will provide a major boost for the British car industry , manufacturing and steel industries and lays the groundwork for an enhanced relationship in the future .
DO N'T MISS 'Sore loser ' Lord Adonis blasted as he calls on UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] Merkel backs Johnson 's Brexit deal as Germany gloats over EU27 unity [ REVEALED ] How UK will have to negotiate with EVERY EU country in 2021 [ INSIGHT ] Ms Truss and her team have now agreed trade deals with 62 countries , alongside the new EU deal - accounting for around £885 billion of UK trade .
More deals with Albania , Cameroon and Ghana could be agreed in the coming days .
Announcing the deal the International Trade Secretary said : “ We now look forward to working with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the near future , as we aim to open new global markets for great British businesses , drive economic growth and improve people ’ s lives across both countries .
“ It will provide certainty for thousands of jobs across the UK in the manufacturing , automotive and steel industries.
” The UK is Turkey ’ s second-biggest export market but Ankara ’ s customs union with the EU meant that a free trade agreement could not be finalised until a Brexit deal was in place .
That raised fears among Turkish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ textiles that their products could face hefty import tariffs and UK border delays if Britain crashed out of the 27-member bloc .
The deal seeks to replicate the trading terms that currently exist between the UK and Turkey , with tariff-free trade on all non-agricultural goods , according to British officials .
The UK has also agreed to roll over the preferential tariffs that Turkey enjoys on some agricultural products under its customs union with the EU .
It follows hot on the heels of a bumper £17.6 billion tie-up with Singapore that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Another £15 billion deal was signed with Japan , paving the way thousands of new jobs .
Crucially it gives Britain a foot in the door to joining a wider 11-nation trade deal , known as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership .
Once fully operational it will account for around 14 per cent of global GDP and is worth more than £112 billion .
Boris Johnson has promised Britian will “ prosper mightily ” outside the EU and Chancellor Rishi Sunak this week said that the new trade deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a `` new era for global Britain '' .
Brexiteer John Redwood , who has indicated he will support the deal in tomorrow ’ s ( Wed ) vote , said the opportunities for Britain outside the EU are huge .

Brexit: Bridgen slams Keir Starmer's position on trade deal
The colossal figure comes as Trade Secretary Liz Truss signed off a new £18.6 billion tie-up with Turkey, meaning the UK now has new agreements in place with 62 countries around the world. And there are multi-billion free trade deals with America, Canada and Australia in the pipeline for 2021. Together they could boost the UK economy by at least £100 billion over the coming decade, according to analysts.
Trending
Writing in the Daily Express, former Business Secretary Andrea Leadsom, says that the UK’s ability to secure it’s own trading agreements, free from EU interference, means that the “sunlit uplands” are on the horizon.
She says Boris Johnson’s “phenominal” £660 billion trade deal with Brussels is the “catalyst for the UK to redefine our place in the world”.
“Let us seize the opportunities that our new position brings,” she says. Let’s use this as the positive push for our post-COVID recovery. The Roaring Twenties can now truly begin!”
With just three days to go until the Brexit transition period ends Boris Johnson yesterday (Mon) hailed a “new starting point” for the UK’s relationship with the EU.
Trade Secretary Liz Truss signed off a new £18.6 billion tie-up with Turkey
In a call with European Council president Charles Michel the Prime Minister welcomed the agreement as a fresh start “between sovereign equals”.
“We looked forward to the formal ratification of the agreement and to working together on shared priorities, such as tackling climate change,” the prime minister added.
It came after ambassadors representing the 27 EU member states unanimously approved the trade deal, which was secured on Christmas Eve just days before the 31 December deadline.
The approval means the trade deal can take effect provisionally, though the European Parliament will formally vote on it in January. READ MORE: Brexit rebellion: DUP to vote AGAINST Boris trade deal
There are multi-billion free trade deals with America, Canada and Australia in the pipeline for 2021
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MPs will be recalled to parliament to vote on the agreement tomorrow (Wed) and currently only 10 Tories are expected to rebel.
But Tory grandee Lord Heseltine has urged MPs and peers to abstain from the vote, warning the deal would inflict “lasting damage” on the UK. Labour has also criticised what it described as a “thin” deal.
However, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has said his party will support it, meaning it is expected to be approved and come into force on 1 January.
The agreement with Turkey, which will be formerly signed later this week, will provide a major boost for the British car industry, manufacturing and steel industries and lays the groundwork for an enhanced relationship in the future. DON'T MISS
'Sore loser' Lord Adonis blasted as he calls on UK to get back in EU [VIDEO]
Merkel backs Johnson's Brexit deal as Germany gloats over EU27 unity [REVEALED]
How UK will have to negotiate with EVERY EU country in 2021 [INSIGHT]
Boris Johnson secured a trade deal with the EU on Christmas Eve
Ms Truss and her team have now agreed trade deals with 62 countries, alongside the new EU deal - accounting for around £885 billion of UK trade.
More deals with Albania, Cameroon and Ghana could be agreed in the coming days.
Announcing the deal the International Trade Secretary said: “We now look forward to working with Turkey towards an ambitious tailor-made trade agreement in the near future, as we aim to open new global markets for great British businesses, drive economic growth and improve people’s lives across both countries.
“It will provide certainty for thousands of jobs across the UK in the manufacturing, automotive and steel industries.”
The deal with the EU came just before the UK's transition period ended
The UK is Turkey’s second-biggest export market but Ankara’s customs union with the EU meant that a free trade agreement could not be finalised until a Brexit deal was in place. That raised fears among Turkish producers of white goods, cars and textiles that their products could face hefty import tariffs and UK border delays if Britain crashed out of the 27-member bloc.
The deal seeks to replicate the trading terms that currently exist between the UK and Turkey, with tariff-free trade on all non-agricultural goods, according to British officials.
The UK has also agreed to roll over the preferential tariffs that Turkey enjoys on some agricultural products under its customs union with the EU.
It follows hot on the heels of a bumper £17.6 billion tie-up with Singapore that will help Britain become a major tech-hub.
Another £15 billion deal was signed with Japan, paving the way thousands of new jobs
Another £15 billion deal was signed with Japan, paving the way thousands of new jobs. Crucially it gives Britain a foot in the door to joining a wider 11-nation trade deal, known as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.
Once fully operational it will account for around 14 per cent of global GDP and is worth more than £112 billion.
Boris Johnson has promised Britian will “prosper mightily” outside the EU and Chancellor Rishi Sunak this week said that the new trade deal secured with the EU will usher in a "new era for global Britain".
Brexiteer John Redwood, who has indicated he will support the deal in tomorrow’s (Wed) vote, said the opportunities for Britain outside the EU are huge.
The EU had expressed its reluctance to back down to the UK's fishing demands
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-12-29--Merkel officially backs Boris' Brexit deal...and then Germany gloats over EU27 unity

Speaking to reporters on Monday , Ulrike Demmer , Deputy Government Spokeswoman for Angela Merkel 's cabinet , said the German Chancellor will back the Brexit deal agreed between the UK and the EU in the European Council .
But the German spokeswoman was quick to underline the great result achieved by Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his team is to be attributed to the EU27 's unity .
She said : `` The cabinet agreed on the German position in a telephone conference today and commended the deal unanimously .
`` This good result was only possible because the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Germany will support the agreement in the European Council . ''
EU ambassadors have also given provisional approval for Britain 's post-Brexit trade deal to be implemented from January 1 .
A spokesman for the German EU presidency said the ambassadors had unanimously agreed to `` green light '' the settlement hammered out on Christmas Eve .
The move paves the way for the agreement which allows for the continued tariff-free trade with the EU single market to take effect when the current Brexit transition period expires on Thursday .
`` EU ambassadors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement as of January 1 , 2021 , '' the spokesman for the German presidency said .
It comes as MPs in Britain were preparing to vote on the deal in a special sitting of Parliament called for Wednesday .
It is likely to pass through both Houses , with Labour ordering its MPs to vote for the `` thin '' treaty because the only other option is a chaotic departure without a trade deal .
The European Parliament must also formally ratify the deal in the new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ retrospectively .
Ahead of the announcement on the agreement on Christmas Eve , tensions rose between French President Emmanuel Macron and EU negotiators over fishing arrangements to be included in the trade deal with the UK .
In a more sceptical tone than the one used by Germany , the French President 's office said on Monday France will also back the draft Brexit deal but will be vigilant from day one over its proper implementation .
The agreement came as ministers stepped up calls for businesses and individuals to prepare for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ four days ' time , regardless of the agreement .
Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove warned time was `` very short '' as he acknowledged there were likely to be some `` bumpy moments '' as the new arrangements came into effect .
He said firms needed to be ready for new customs , while he urged UK citizens to take out comprehensive travel insurance to cover health costs and to check their mobile roaming policies to avoid charges if they were travelling to the EU .
`` I think lots of businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , some smaller businesses will still want to do a bit more in order to be ready , '' he told BBC Breakfast .
Michel Barnier warns of future legal action with UK over trade deal [ INSIGHT ] Britons furious as Leo Varadkar issues EU threat to UK [ ANALYSIS ] We are a free nation once again – thanks to Boris , says LEO McKINSTRY [ COMMENT ] '' We are there to help them and the advice that we 're giving , and also the money that we 've invested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ready for customs procedures , is designed to help .
`` I 'm sure there will be bumpy moments but we are there in order to try to do everything we can to smooth the path . ''
Mr Gove rejected increasingly angry claims from Britain 's fishermen that Boris Johnson had failed to deliver on his promises made in the referendum campaign .
Under the terms of the agreement , 25 percent of EU boats ' fishing rights in UK waters will be transferred to the UK fishing fleet , over a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think it is fair to say that we are in a stronger position than we were in the EU and in the common fisheries policy , '' Mr Gove told the BBC Radio 4 Today programme .
`` In the common fisheries policy , we were only able to access about 50 percent of the fish in our waters .
It is the case that we are now getting a significant uptick in that number , so we will have by 2026 about two-thirds of the fish in our waters . ''

Brexit: Germany 'will support agreement' says spokeswoman
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Ulrike Demmer, Deputy Government Spokeswoman for Angela Merkel's cabinet, said the German Chancellor will back the Brexit deal agreed between the UK and the EU in the European Council. But the German spokeswoman was quick to underline the great result achieved by Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his team is to be attributed to the EU27's unity.
Trending
She said: "The cabinet agreed on the German position in a telephone conference today and commended the deal unanimously. "This good result was only possible because the 27 member states stuck together. "Germany will support the agreement in the European Council." EU ambassadors have also given provisional approval for Britain's post-Brexit trade deal to be implemented from January 1. A spokesman for the German EU presidency said the ambassadors had unanimously agreed to "green light" the settlement hammered out on Christmas Eve. The move paves the way for the agreement which allows for the continued tariff-free trade with the EU single market to take effect when the current Brexit transition period expires on Thursday. READ MORE: Brexit triumph: MEP taunted EU over 'severe democratic deficit'
Angela Merkel says Germany will approve Brexit deal in European Council
Brexit deal: Emmanuel Macron threatened to veto the deal over fishing rights ahead of the agreement
"EU ambassadors have unanimously approved the provisional application of the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement as of January 1, 2021," the spokesman for the German presidency said. It comes as MPs in Britain were preparing to vote on the deal in a special sitting of Parliament called for Wednesday. It is likely to pass through both Houses, with Labour ordering its MPs to vote for the "thin" treaty because the only other option is a chaotic departure without a trade deal. The European Parliament must also formally ratify the deal in the new year - although this will now apply retrospectively. Ahead of the announcement on the agreement on Christmas Eve, tensions rose between French President Emmanuel Macron and EU negotiators over fishing arrangements to be included in the trade deal with the UK. In a more sceptical tone than the one used by Germany, the French President's office said on Monday France will also back the draft Brexit deal but will be vigilant from day one over its proper implementation.
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Brexit: Macron has 'toned down' fishing demands says Xafa
The agreement came as ministers stepped up calls for businesses and individuals to prepare for the new procedures that will apply in just four days' time, regardless of the agreement. Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove warned time was "very short" as he acknowledged there were likely to be some "bumpy moments" as the new arrangements came into effect. He said firms needed to be ready for new customs, while he urged UK citizens to take out comprehensive travel insurance to cover health costs and to check their mobile roaming policies to avoid charges if they were travelling to the EU. "I think lots of businesses are ready, particularly the larger businesses, some smaller businesses will still want to do a bit more in order to be ready," he told BBC Breakfast. DON'T MISS: Michel Barnier warns of future legal action with UK over trade deal [INSIGHT]
Britons furious as Leo Varadkar issues EU threat to UK [ANALYSIS]
We are a free nation once again – thanks to Boris, says LEO McKINSTRY [COMMENT]
Brexit latest: EU-UK trade deal timeline


thedailyexpress--2020-12-28--Sturgeon accused by Tories of prioritising 'political games' over backing UK-EU trade deal

On Christmas Eve , Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the two sides had finally agreed terms on a post-Brexit trade deal beyond this year .
But both sides face a race against time for the agreement to be ratified before the transition period deadline expires on New Year 's Eve .
The deal will be voted on in both the UK and European parliaments this week , with British MPs recalled from their short break to sit in the House of Commons on Wednesday .
Britain voted by a slim margin of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of leaving the EU during the historic Brexit referendum in June 2016 - despite Scot 's voting in favour of remaining in the continental bloc by a margin of 62 percent to 38 percent .
The SNP have long been vocal critics of Brexit , claiming the departure has been made against their will , suggesting that an independent Scotland could look to rejoin the EU over the coming years .
But now Nicola Sturgeon 's party , which has 47 seats in the Commons , has vowed to vote against the trade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Westminster on Wednesday .
This has sparked a furious reaction from the Scottish Conservatives , with party leader Douglas Ross accusing the SNP of `` once again showing their true colours '' .
He tweeted : `` Scottish jobs , businesses and livelihoods rely on Scottish MP ’ s supporting the UK-EU trade deal .
`` The SNP have always put political games before the people they serve and by voting against this deal they are once again showing their true colours . ''
Mr Ross also posted a picture comparing two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and 27 when Scotland 's First Minister commented on the Brexit trade deal between the UK and EU .
Two weeks ago , the picture says Ms Sturgeon claimed `` a deal , any deal , is better than no-deal , '' but then says that on Sunday , the SNP confirmed it would be voting against the deal .
The Scottish conservative leader wrote : `` No amount of spin from the Nats can hide that after months of warning against a No Deal outcome , that is exactly what the SNP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NoDealNicola . ''
Maurice Golden , the Scottish Conservatives ' Shadow Cabinet Secretary for the Economy , Fair Work and Culture , tweeted the same picture , and accused the SNP of wanting `` chaos to push independence '' .
He wrote : `` Two weeks ago , the SNP were saying no deal would be a disaster .
Now they ’ re voting for a no deal Brexit .
`` The fact is they just want chaos to push independence . ''
DO N'T MISS 'Made in Italy ' push over fears @ @ @ @ @ @ @ INTERVIEW ] 'Sore loser ' Lord Adonis blasted as he calls on UK to get back in EU [ VIDEO ] Merkel backs Johnson 's Brexit deal as Germany gloats over EU27 unity [ COMMENT ] On Sunday , the SNP 's leader in Westminster Ian Blackford said his party would vote against the `` unforgivable act of economic vandalism and gross stupidity '' which he argued is a `` very bad deal for Scotland '' .
The SNP Government has claimed the Brexit deal could cost Scotland 's economy more than £9billion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU , with the forecast 6.1 percent drop in GDP on par with losing the equivalent of £1,600 per person .
Mr Blackford raged : `` Boris Johnson 's extreme Tory Brexit is an unforgivable act of economic vandalism and gross stupidity , which will cause lasting damage to the economy and leave the UK much worse off at the worst possible time - during a pandemic and economic recession .
`` Scotland has been completely ignored by Westminster throughout the Brexit process and we are being forced to pay a devastating price @

Brexit: Ian Blackford grilled over SNP's stance on trade deal
On Christmas Eve, Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the two sides had finally agreed terms on a post-Brexit trade deal beyond this year. But both sides face a race against time for the agreement to be ratified before the transition period deadline expires on New Year's Eve. The deal will be voted on in both the UK and European parliaments this week, with British MPs recalled from their short break to sit in the House of Commons on Wednesday.
Trending
Britain voted by a slim margin of 52 percent to 48 percent in favour of leaving the EU during the historic Brexit referendum in June 2016 - despite Scot's voting in favour of remaining in the continental bloc by a margin of 62 percent to 38 percent. The SNP have long been vocal critics of Brexit, claiming the departure has been made against their will, suggesting that an independent Scotland could look to rejoin the EU over the coming years. But now Nicola Sturgeon's party, which has 47 seats in the Commons, has vowed to vote against the trade deal when it is brought before MPs in Westminster on Wednesday. This has sparked a furious reaction from the Scottish Conservatives, with party leader Douglas Ross accusing the SNP of "once again showing their true colours".
Nicola Sturgeon's SNP have said they will vote against the UK-EU Brexit trade deal
Douglas Ross accused the SNP of putting 'political games before the people they serve'
He tweeted: "Scottish jobs, businesses and livelihoods rely on Scottish MP’s supporting the UK-EU trade deal. "The SNP have always put political games before the people they serve and by voting against this deal they are once again showing their true colours." Mr Ross also posted a picture comparing two statements from Ms Sturgeon on December 14 and 27 when Scotland's First Minister commented on the Brexit trade deal between the UK and EU. Two weeks ago, the picture says Ms Sturgeon claimed "a deal, any deal, is better than no-deal," but then says that on Sunday, the SNP confirmed it would be voting against the deal. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: EU nations unanimously approve Brexit deal
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The Scottish Conservative leader said the SNP will be voting for a no-deal outcome on Wednesday
The Scottish conservative leader wrote: "No amount of spin from the Nats can hide that after months of warning against a No Deal outcome, that is exactly what the SNP will vote for on Wednesday. #NoDealNicola." Maurice Golden, the Scottish Conservatives' Shadow Cabinet Secretary for the Economy, Fair Work and Culture, tweeted the same picture, and accused the SNP of wanting "chaos to push independence". He wrote: "Two weeks ago, the SNP were saying no deal would be a disaster. Now they’re voting for a no deal Brexit. "The fact is they just want chaos to push independence." DON'T MISS
'Made in Italy' push over fears of similar products to flood UK [INTERVIEW]
'Sore loser' Lord Adonis blasted as he calls on UK to get back in EU [VIDEO]
Merkel backs Johnson's Brexit deal as Germany gloats over EU27 unity [COMMENT]
Boris Johnson announced last week the UK had signed a Brexit trade deal with the EU
The SNP's Ian Blackford has lashed out at the Tories over the UK-EU trade deal
On Sunday, the SNP's leader in Westminster Ian Blackford said his party would vote against the "unforgivable act of economic vandalism and gross stupidity" which he argued is a "very bad deal for Scotland". The SNP Government has claimed the Brexit deal could cost Scotland's economy more than £9billion by 2030 compared to remaining in the EU, with the forecast 6.1 percent drop in GDP on par with losing the equivalent of £1,600 per person. Mr Blackford raged: "Boris Johnson's extreme Tory Brexit is an unforgivable act of economic vandalism and gross stupidity, which will cause lasting damage to the economy and leave the UK much worse off at the worst possible time - during a pandemic and economic recession. "Scotland has been completely ignored by Westminster throughout the Brexit process and we are being forced to pay a devastating price.
The major events that have led to Brexit