thedailyexpress--2020-08-18--Michel Barnier ignores Boris Johnson and sets his own October deadline for trade talks

Ahead of the seventh round of talks , the European Commission said the future relationship with Britain must be completed before Halloween at the latest .
Echoing previous warnings by Michel Barnier , his spokesman said : “ We want a deal , we want to have an ambitious and fair partnership with the UK , and that we must come to an agreement in October at the latest .
“ This week , and over the coming weeks , we will remain constructive , we will remain engaged and respectful with the UK negotiating team in order to reach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prime Minister ’ s lead Brexit envoy , heads to Brussels today hoping to wrap up the future relationship before the end of next month .
The British official will have dinner with Mr Barnier this evening with talks set to run until Friday .
Downing Street in confident a deal can be reached with the bloc after months of wrangling over fisheries and the so-called “ level-playing field ” .
A No 10 spokesman said : “ There are many issues that will be discussed during this week ’ s round , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , trade in goods and services .
“ There are many areas where there is convergence but we will continue to work to plug the gaps where any differences remain .
“ Our assessment is that a deal can still be reached in September.
” Boris Johnson has repeatedly warns he would walk away from the talks with Brussels if the bloc continues to drag its feet in the negotiations .
He has also insisted any UK-EU agreement must hand the Government complete control over future policy decisions and access to Britain ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , sources have suggested Mr Barnier is ready to drop a key demand to keep Britain tied to the EU ’ s state aid rules .
MUST READ : Nervy EU blinks first with MAJOR trade deal concession The Frenchman is understood to be ready to soften his demands for the UK to maintain the bloc ’ s laws governing tax breaks and state subsidies .
He had been ordered by member states to force Britain to align to Brussels ’ anti-competition regime .
But European sources have claimed establishing a “ common @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aid policies could allow Boris Johnson complete control over Britain ’ s system .
DO N'T MISS Brexit POLL : Should UK withdraw and prepare for no deal ?
[ VOTE HERE ] EU trade deal is still possible , says No 10 [ INSIGHT ] Pound to euro exchange rate : Brexit trade talks may see GBP fluctuate [ FORECAST ]

Brexit: Boris Johnson says a ‘deal is there to be done’
Ahead of the seventh round of talks, the European Commission said the future relationship with Britain must be completed before Halloween at the latest. Echoing previous warnings by Michel Barnier, his spokesman said: “We want a deal, we want to have an ambitious and fair partnership with the UK, and that we must come to an agreement in October at the latest. “This week, and over the coming weeks, we will remain constructive, we will remain engaged and respectful with the UK negotiating team in order to reach a deal.”
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David Frost, the Prime Minister’s lead Brexit envoy, heads to Brussels today hoping to wrap up the future relationship before the end of next month. The British official will have dinner with Mr Barnier this evening with talks set to run until Friday. Downing Street in confident a deal can be reached with the bloc after months of wrangling over fisheries and the so-called “level-playing field”.
Michel Barnier believes a Brexit deal must be completed by October at the latest
Michel Barnier is the EU's chief Brexit negotiator
A No 10 spokesman said: “There are many issues that will be discussed during this week’s round, not least a level-playing field, fisheries, trade in goods and services. “There are many areas where there is convergence but we will continue to work to plug the gaps where any differences remain. “Our assessment is that a deal can still be reached in September.”
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Prime Minister Boris Johnson
Boris Johnson has repeatedly warns he would walk away from the talks with Brussels if the bloc continues to drag its feet in the negotiations. He has also insisted any UK-EU agreement must hand the Government complete control over future policy decisions and access to Britain’s fishing grounds. Meanwhile in Brussels, sources have suggested Mr Barnier is ready to drop a key demand to keep Britain tied to the EU’s state aid rules. MUST READ: Nervy EU blinks first with MAJOR trade deal concession
Michel Barnier and David Frost during recent trade talks in London
Brexit: Pound rises against the euro as trade talks continue


thedailyexpress--2020-08-18--Brexit LIVE: Angry Frost to put Barnier in place after sensational claims - showdown TODAY

Mr Frost and Mr Barnier will once again attempt to break the impasse this week in the European capital with several outstanding issues remaining in order to reach a trade deal by the end of the year .
Ahead of the seventh official round of talks , one EU official has taken a huge swipe at the way the UK negotiating team has approached discussions and suggested Mr Frost would eventually cave in to the demands of the bloc .
The Brussels insider has insisted Britain would soften its stance with the EU after trade deals with the US and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The official said : “ The UK desperately needs this deal .
“ If the clock is ticking , reality will start to sink in in London .
“ The UK might not always have behaved rationally in its negotiations with Brussels , but surely the pandemic and the lack of trade alternatives must lead to some reason in London . ''
Mr Frost and Mr Barnier will begin talks over dinner in the Belgian capital before negotiations are intensified on Wednesday and Thursday with the so-called level playing field on trade , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agenda .
The UK and the EU need to complete a deal by the end of October to ensure both parliaments to have enough time to approve a deal and give businesses some much needed clarity .
Ahead of the talks Mr Frost remained optimistic an agreement could be achieved in a matter of weeks .
Last Thursday , he said : “ Our assessment is that agreement can be reached in September and we will work to achieve this if we can . ''
Boris Johnson has been offered an unprecedented trade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , an EU chief has said .
David McAllister , the chair of the European Parliament ’ s UK Coordination Group , told German newspaper Börsen-Zeitung the EU had made “ a unique and highly attractive offer to the UK that has never been made to a third country , quota-free and duty-free access for goods to the single market ” Michel Barnier has set the UK an October deadline for reaching a trade deal with the EU , ahead of the seventh round of discussions this week .
A spokesman for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a deal , we want to have an ambitious and fair partnership with the UK , and that we must come to an agreement in October at the latest .
“ This week , and over the coming weeks , we will remain constructive , we will remain engaged and respectful with the UK negotiating team in order to reach a deal.
” 10.45am update : Brexit POLL : As EU talks begin seventh round , should UK withdraw and prepare for no deal ?
Brexit trade talks with the EU will resume @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sides attempt to thrash out a deal before the October deadline .
But as the seventh round begins , do you think the UK should withdraw from the talks and prepare for a no deal exit ?
Brexit negotiator David Frost is on the verge unlocking the impasse in negotiations with the European Union , it has emerged .
EU officials believe discussion over a free-trade deal could be unlocked if the UK is able to present plans for its state aid regime .
One source told Express.co.uk : “ We need an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rules .
“ What we ’ re trying to see is what the state aid system is going to be and then the EU can establish how compatible it is with the type of partnership we ’ re considering.
” READ MORE : Brexit breakthrough : Nervous EU blinks first with MAJOR trade deal concession Traders are bracing for a new round of sterling volatility as talks between Britain and the European Union restart .
ING strategists Chris Turner , Francesco Pesole and Petr Krpata wrote : `` Sterling 's recent good performance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likely relied on the Brexit story being put on the backburner by investors .
`` We see a non-negligible risk of markets starting to price back in a no deal outcome.
” Business leaders have ramped up planning to get ready for Brexit including the possibility of a no deal outcome at the end of trade talks .
The Construction Leadership Council has set up a group to produce an impact report in September .
Andy Mitchell , Co-chair of the Construction Leadership Council said : “ The CLC has a leading role @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the changes that will come at the end of the transition period .
“ While businesses contend with the fallout from COVID-19 and adjust to the new ways of working , the clock continues to tick on reaching an agreement with the EU .
“ Whether we reach an agreement or not , our relationship with our European neighbours and the rest of the world will change and we ’ ll be doing all we can to help the industry adapt , adjust and rise to meet the Prime Minister ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ambition.
” 8.15am update : Britain to stand firm and will not compromise to find a deal – expert warns The UK negotiating team will not backtrack on its ambition to reach a new free trade deal with the EU despite the prospect looking “ unachievable ” , an expert has said .
David Henig , the UK director of the European Centre For International Political Economy said : `` The UK Government 's ambitions for new trade agreements this year always looked unachievable , but this does n't mean they will change @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a deal .
`` The EU does n't have a great record in understanding motivations in London .
“ The politics of Brexit having always been more important than the economics . ''

Brexit must be used to its 'maximum effect' says expert
The US ambassador to the UK Woody Johnson retweeted a 15-second video from the Department for International Trade, which features comments from a small business that exports to the US, praising the benefits a trade deal between the UK and US could provide. Mr Johnson wrote: "The US-UK trade deal will greatly benefit SMEs and create jobs on both sides of the Atlantic!" The UK and EU will once again attempt to break the impasse in trade talks this week with several outstanding issues remaining in order to reach a trade deal by the end of the year.
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Ahead of the seventh official round of talks, one EU official has taken a huge swipe at the way the UK negotiating team has approached discussions and suggested Mr Frost would eventually cave in to the demands of the bloc. The Brussels insider has insisted Britain would soften its stance with the EU after trade deals with the US and Japan were yet to be finalised. The official said: “The UK desperately needs this deal. “If the clock is ticking, reality will start to sink in in London. READ MORE: Brexit fishing fury: 'Inevitable conflict' with EU fishermen predicted
Brexit latest: An envoy has hailed a future trade deal between the US and UK
“The UK might not always have behaved rationally in its negotiations with Brussels, but surely the pandemic and the lack of trade alternatives must lead to some reason in London." Earlier today, the EU warned a trade agreement must be achieved "in October at the latest" if it is to be ratified in time. A spokesman for Mr Barnier said: "The important thing to note - and I would point you first of all back to what Michel Barnier himself said in London at the end of the last round of negotiations - that, first of all, we want a deal, we want to have an ambitious and fair partnership with the UK, and that we must come to an agreement in October at the latest. He added: "This week and over the coming weeks we will remain constructive, we will remain engaged and respectful with the UK negotiating team in order to reach a deal." THIS LIVE BLOG IS NOW CLOSED
David Frost is confident a deal can be reached by September
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5am update: EU leaders condemn Mali mutiny against president Keïta Foreign policy leaders in the European Union have condemned a coup in Mali which saw President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta arrested. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrel said the EU “rejects any anti-constitutional changes” in leadership, and warned that “a consensual outcome, while respecting constitutional principles, international law and human rights, is the only way to avoid destabilization not only of Mali but of the entire region.” French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian join Borrell in denouncing the coup in Mali in a statement that said, “France strongly reaffirms its support of Malian sovereignty and democracy.” European Council President Charles Michel said in a tweet that a coup "is never the solution." Mali’s last military coup was in 2012, and prior to the detaining of Mr Boubacar Keïta the country was experiencing unrest in the region over government corruption and neglect. 4am update: EU eyes uneasy end to Belarus crisis in emergency meeting EU leaders are expected to condemn Belarus’ leader Alexander Lukashenko while also remaining peaceful to Russia, an ally of the embattled president. In a video conference today, the blocs leaders will try and strike a balance in their reaction to what they claim is a blatantly fraudulent election, while not escalating tensions between the EU and Russia. An EU diplomat told POLITICO that the leaders "are expected to back what the foreign ministers decided — it's a message at a different level, it has another kind of relevance”. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell savaged Belarus’ election on Friday, claiming it was “neither free not fair”, and helped present a motion to sanction Belarus officials responsible to violence and election fraud. Diplomats and officials are hoping the crisis can be resolved primarily within Belarus, and are reportedly looking at other possible measures, such as some kind of diplomatic mission to try to assist political dialogue. 2am update: Poland’s health minister RESIGNS over questionable medical supplies Poland’s health minister has resigned amid questioning of his departments procurement of medical equipment. Dr Lukasz Szumowski, cardiologist and doctor, announced his resignation from the government and his return to medical practice. In recent weeks, the number of infections registered daily has been rising, with more than 16,000 current cases across the country on Tuesday. Mr Szumowski also faced allegations that a company owned by his brother has received millions in government grants during the crisis. Some medical equipment bought by the Polish government to fight the virus has also been found to be ineffective. Mr Szumowski has denied any wrongdoing and said on Tuesday his resignation is something he has planned for some time and has nothing to do with the allegations.
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12am update: Brexit deal on the brink: EU rejects UK demands as ‘fundamentally unbalanced’ Brussels has savaged UK demands for a trade deal with the EU, citing issues with trucking access requests. The EU said British demands on haulage access were too close to single market rights and were "fundamentally unbalanced". British-based haulage groups have warned that without a trade deal in place by December 31, hauliers and businesses both in the UK and across the Channel would suffer. They have warned of increased costs if chief negotiators Michel Barnier and David Frost cannot reach an agreement. Britain argued truckers should be allowed to continue working in the EU under existing cabotage rules. Dylan Donnelly taking over reporting from Paul Withers 10.15pm update: Brexit PANIC - Desperate EU banking on UK urgency to force late trade deal breakthrough The EU is relying on a desperate last dash from the UK in crunch Brexit talks to secure a lucrative trade deal as negotiations enter a critical period, an official close to the negotiations has claimed. The latest round of talks resume in Brussels this week, with both sides remaining confident a free trade agreement (FTA) can be struck over the coming weeks. Earlier today, the EU warned while it will continue to negotiate in a constructive manner with the UK, a trade deal needs to be agreed by October at the very latest. An EU official closely involved in talks ahead of this week's latest round told Politico: "The UK desperately needs this deal. If the clock is ticking, reality will start to sink in in London. "The UK might not always have behaved rationally in its negotiations with Brussels, but surely the pandemic and the lack of trade alternatives must lead to some reason in London." 9.30pm update: Brexit will be 'complete failure' unless Boris Johnson makes huge investment in UK fishing Boris Johnson has been warned that Brexit will be a "complete failure" if it does not result in thousands of jobs created in the UK's fishing industry. British fisherman Paul Lines told Express.co.uk the UK Government must focus on rebuilding the British fishing sector following the conclusion of the Brexit transition period. He called for the UK to turn the tables on the European Union and become a dominant supplier of fish in the marketplace. Mr Lines said: "You want the raw material to cut up and sell and if we are clever there is a lot of money to be made. "We could supply half of the fish that Europe needs. "Instead of their own boats catching it we could be the catchers and suppliers of it, that is our marketplace. "Fishermen are the ones that will lose out, processors won’t as that raw material will come from anywhere." 7.52pm update: Scottish Parliament passes motion urging UK Government to withdraw internal market plans Holyrood has passed a motion calling on Boris Johnson's Government to withdraw plans for an internal market system after the end of the Brexit transition period. The Scottish Government motion, which said the proposals are "incompatible with devolution and the democratic accountability of the Scottish Parliament" and will also "fundamentally undermine legitimate devolved policy choices on a range of matters, including the environment, public health and social protections", was passed by 92 votes to 31. This came after a a Conservative amendment that called on Scottish ministers to "engage constructively with the UK Government" on the plans was rejected by MSPs by 30 votes to 91.
Brexit latest: The UK and EU are resuming trade deal talks in Brussels
6.50pm update: Boris Johnson's plot to exploit Keir Starmer on Brexit – will excite northern Leave voters Boris Johnson's plot to exploit Keir Starmer on Brexit should he mount a challenge to become Prime Minister in the next general election has been brilliantly exposed, and it will delight Leave voters in the North of England. Since becoming Labour leader on April 4, Sir Keir has remained strangely silent on Brexit, and did not even advocate an extension to the transition period beyond December 31. The Labour leader's stance will likely continue for the rest of the year and Sir Keir will instead "come up with an attack designed to satisfy most reasonable Remainers while appealing to the largest number of Leavers possible”, it has been claimed. Sir Keir could argue the Tories left Britain in the doldrums after Brexit, and if elected as Prime Minister, could look to return to the negotiating table with Brussels in search of a revised deal that would create jobs throughout the country. It would also constitute something looking a Norway-plus deal, meaning Britain would be forced to rejoin the single market and customs union. But The Spectator has identified a major problem if Sir Keir should decide to impose this strategy, warning the Conservatives "could frustrate such a cunning plan by creating facts on the ground". 5.50pm update: US envoy hails future UK trade deal ahead of Frost-Barnier clash The US has hailed a future post-Brexit trade deal with Britain ahead of a clash between the UK's chief negotiator David Frost and EU counterpart Michel Barnier in Brussels this evening. The US ambassador to the UK Woody Johnson retweeted a 15-second video from the Department for International Trade, which features comments from a small business that exports to the US, praising the benefits a trade deal between the UK and US could provide. Mr Johnson wrote: "The US-UK trade deal will greatly benefit SMEs and create jobs on both sides of the Atlantic!"
Brexit latest: Woody Johnson has hailed a future trade deal between the UK and US
5pm update: Pound surges to eight-month high against US dollar but Brexit fears remain The pound has hit eight-month highs against the US dollar, but analysts have struck a cautious tone over the outlook as a new round of Brexit talks with the EU begins. The dollar index has slumped to two-year lows and is faced with diminishing yields, weak U.S. economic data and decreasing demand for safe havens. At 2.35pm, the pound was at $1.3220, up 0.9 percent since New York's close. As the dollar continued to weaken, sterling hit $1.3276, its strongest since the last day of 2019. But traders are braed for renewed volatility in the pound as talks between Britain and the EU restart. ING strategists Chris Turner, Francesco Pesole and Petr Krpata wrote: "Sterling's recent good performance and resilience to grim economic data has likely relied on the Brexit story being put on the backburner by investors. "We see a non-negligible risk of markets starting to price back in a no-deal outcome." 3.38pm update: UK warned 'clock is truly ticking' to ensure survival of jobs and business Naomi Smith, chief executive of Best for Britain, a civil society campaign, launched in 2017 to stop Brexit and continue the UK's membership of the EU, said: "The Government promised to deliver Brexit to 'unleash the potential of our whole country'. "But without a comprehensive trade deal with the EU, potentially irreparable damage will be done to our economy by the double impact of coronavirus and Brexit. "The October deadline set by the EU means the clock is truly ticking on our Government to reach a deal that ensures jobs and businesses that survived the first wave of coronavirus aren't lost at the turn of the year."
Brexit latest: Negotiations on the EU-UK future partnership
3.19pm update: Construction industry prepares for Brexit impact Construction leaders have established a specialist working group to focus on the impacts on the industry from Britain's departure from the EU. The Construction Leadership Council, which has set up the group, wants to prepare the industry for the fallout from Brexit, and will produce an impact report within weeks. If the UK and EU fail to reach an agreement and head for a no deal outcome, the group will outline business-critical issues for construction that the Government will need to immediately address before the transition period ends on December 31. The group will also champion opportunities for the industry in the numerous ongoing trade deal negotiations with the EU and rest of the world. 3pm update: UK still hopeful of reaching a trade deal with the EU next month Britain believes it can agree a post-Brexit trade deal with the EU next month - despite several rounds of talks so far ending in stalemate. Boris Johnson's spokesman insisted UK negotiators would "continue to plug the gaps" when talks enter their seventh round in Brussels later today. He added: "There are many issues that will be discussed during this week's round, not least level playing field, fisheries, trading goods and services, amongst others."
Michel Barnier has set an October deadline for talks
Paul Withers taking over live reporting from Luke Hawker. 1.20pm update: UK offered access to EU single market – Brussels chief says Boris Johnson has been offered an unprecedented trade deal including access to the single market, an EU chief has said. David McAllister, the chair of the European Parliament’s UK Coordination Group, told German newspaper Börsen-Zeitung the EU had made “a unique and highly attractive offer to the UK that has never been made to a third country, quota-free and duty-free access for goods to the single market” 12.30pm update: Barnier sets October deadline for Brexit talks Michel Barnier has set the UK an October deadline for reaching a trade deal with the EU, ahead of the seventh round of discussions this week. A spokesman for the EU negotiator said: “We want a deal, we want to have an ambitious and fair partnership with the UK, and that we must come to an agreement in October at the latest. “This week, and over the coming weeks, we will remain constructive, we will remain engaged and respectful with the UK negotiating team in order to reach a deal.” 10.45am update: Brexit POLL: As EU talks begin seventh round, should UK withdraw and prepare for no deal? Brexit trade talks with the EU will resume in Brussels this evening as the two sides attempt to thrash out a deal before the October deadline. But as the seventh round begins, do you think the UK should withdraw from the talks and prepare for a no deal exit?
Brexit must be used to its 'maximum effect' says expert
10.00am update: Nervous EU blinks first with major trade deal concession Brexit negotiator David Frost is on the verge unlocking the impasse in negotiations with the European Union, it has emerged. EU officials believe discussion over a free-trade deal could be unlocked if the UK is able to present plans for its state aid regime. One source told Express.co.uk: “We need an understanding of what we consider the common rules. “What we’re trying to see is what the state aid system is going to be and then the EU can establish how compatible it is with the type of partnership we’re considering.” READ MORE: Brexit breakthrough: Nervous EU blinks first with MAJOR trade deal concession 9.20am update: Markets on alert as Brexit trade talks continue Traders are bracing for a new round of sterling volatility as talks between Britain and the European Union restart. ING strategists Chris Turner, Francesco Pesole and Petr Krpata wrote: "Sterling's recent good performance and resilience to grim economic data has likely relied on the Brexit story being put on the backburner by investors. "We see a non-negligible risk of markets starting to price back in a no deal outcome.”


thedailyexpress--2020-08-18--Oh dear, Nicola! Sturgeon referendum dream dealt blow as SNP could be forced to ditch plan

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The SNP are forecast to win more than 53 percent of the constituency vote in the upcoming in 2021 Holyrood election , according to a commissioned Panelbase poll .
However , the predicted win could be at risk depending on the stance Nicola Sturgeon 's party decides to campaign on regarding a second independence referendum .
Scottish Tory MSP Miles Briggs warned Express.co.uk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ First Minister 's dream for Scotland deeply unpopular .
He said : `` We 've been absolutely clear at the general election and Holyrood elections of saying no to another independence referendum .
`` The fundamental of what was an agreed process by David Cameron and Alex Salmond under the Edinburgh Agreement was to hold a once-in-a-generation vote .
`` We all signed up to that , we all said we 'd respect the result and move on .
`` It 's only really the SNP , literally hours after , who have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to use desperate election tactic to 'distract ' Scottish voters

SNP 'summer independence bid will not be popular' says MSP
The SNP are forecast to win more than 53 percent of the constituency vote in the upcoming in 2021 Holyrood election, according to a commissioned Panelbase poll. However, the predicted win could be at risk depending on the stance Nicola Sturgeon's party decides to campaign on regarding a second independence referendum. Scottish Tory MSP Miles Briggs warned Express.co.uk that the coronavirus pandemic could make the First Minister's dream for Scotland deeply unpopular.
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He said: "We've been absolutely clear at the general election and Holyrood elections of saying no to another independence referendum. "The fundamental of what was an agreed process by David Cameron and Alex Salmond under the Edinburgh Agreement was to hold a once-in-a-generation vote. "We all signed up to that, we all said we'd respect the result and move on. "It's only really the SNP, literally hours after, who haven't." READ MORE: SNP to use desperate election tactic to 'distract' Scottish voters
Sturgeon could be forced to change election strategy from 'unpopular' second referendum
The SNP are forecast to win over 53 percent of the constituency vote in the upcoming in 2021.
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Mr Briggs continued: "So I'm waiting to see where Nicola Sturgeon decides to pitch. "I don't think it will be popular in the mid-summer, post-COVID economic downturn for her to only be saying to people that we should start arguing among ourselves over the constitution for years. "I don't think she'll do that so I don't think the Prime Minister will have that day after the election phone call to make. "For most of the Unionist parties in Scotland, we just want the SNP to start respecting the vote we had in 2014."
'I don't think it will be popular in the mid-summer, post-COVID economic downturn.'
Nicola Sturgeon on potential lockdown extension in Aberdeen
SCOTLAND SURVEY


thedailyexpress--2020-08-18--Boris Johnson holiday: Where is Boris Johnson? Is he still on holiday?

Prime Minister Boris Johnson was last seen on the BBC last week following the fiasco surrounding A-level grades .
At that time , the PM said the system was “ robust ” and he supported the Education Secretary Gavin William .
But in the past week , Mr Johnson has been absent and the anger surrounding exam results has only escalated .
Boris Johnson stepped in from afar to announced a major U-turn on A-level grades .
A-level grades announced last week have been a shambles according to pupils , teachers and commentators .
Now the Government has announced a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pupils , Conservative MPs , parents and teachers about the handling of the exam grades crisis .
A-level and GCSE students in England , Wales and Northern Ireland will be handed exam grades as predicted by their teachers instead of a controversial algorithm .
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson today apologised for causing distress to students regarding their grades .
He said he is `` incredibly sorry for the distress '' caused to pupils after having to make a U-turn in how A-levels and GCSEs are graded .
Speaking on BBC Radio 4 ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I would like to start off by apologising - saying sorry to all those young people who 've been affected by this .
“ This is something none of us expected to see and none of us wanted to see.
” The controversial algorithm led to heartbreaking stories from pupils who had missed out on places based on the performance of their school over recent years , in spite of their predicted grades from teachers .
One student tweeted : “ Simple fact my dream has been shattered , predicted a B in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - rejected from queens to study Psychology due to this ridiculous system- appalled by the treatment of students this year , heartbroken .
A CHANGE IS NEEDED !
” Another wrote : “ I lost my place at Oxford despite being given AAA .
I was predicted 3 A*s ; all 3 of my A Level grades were downgraded .
I go to a state comprehensive too !
” One Twitter user added : “ I was predicted ABC and was awarded CCD last week .
I lost my place at my dream @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government to award Alevel students the grades they deserve # ALevelProtests # wheresBoris # gcses2020 ” .
DO N'T MISS Boris Johnson holiday : Where is Boris Johnson ?
[ INSIGHT ] Boris Johnson vows to be ‘ ruthless ’ on quarantine rules [ EXPLAINER ] Boris Johnson says he will be ‘ ruthless ’ about travel ban [ ANALYSIS ] Many social media users have condemned the PM for his absence during the current scandal .
On Twitter user wrote : “ Through all of this @ BorisJohnson remains on holiday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shots and getting it wrong .
The Vote Leave cabal might have known how to run a divisive , corrupt campaign but they have no idea how to run a country.
” Another added : “ It is futile asking # WheresBoris , just as it 's hopeless demanding that Gavin Williamson resign .
This Gov't has shown clearly that it will act with impunity , regardless of what we want - they simply do n't give a f**k. Our only hope is in 2024 when we can vote them out… ” One @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government is wrecking our country , our kids future & our economy .
When a few pissed off people attack them on twitter over # ALevelsResults we get another # UTurn Imagine what we could do if 3.5 percent of the population took to the streets in real anger .
# wheresBoris ” .
One person wrote : “ Can people please stop saying that Boris is taking a holiday from taking responsibility ?
You can ’ t take a holiday from something you ’ ve never done .
# wheresBoris ” .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ taking a break north of the border in Scotland this week .
Mr Johnson is not expected to return to work until the following week .
Asked if the PM could cut short his holiday , the spokesperson said : “ The Prime Minister will be kept up to date and will continue to receive updates and briefings as necessary.
” Reportedly the PM is spending his holiday camping in Scotland with his finance Carrie Symonds and young son Wilfred .

Boris Johnson must 'set out a plan' on exam results says Halfon
Prime Minister Boris Johnson was last seen on the BBC last week following the fiasco surrounding A-level grades. At that time, the PM said the system was “robust” and he supported the Education Secretary Gavin William. But in the past week, Mr Johnson has been absent and the anger surrounding exam results has only escalated.
Trending
Boris Johnson stepped in from afar to announced a major U-turn on A-level grades. A-level grades announced last week have been a shambles according to pupils, teachers and commentators. Now the Government has announced a major Government U-turn amid growing fury from pupils, Conservative MPs, parents and teachers about the handling of the exam grades crisis. A-level and GCSE students in England, Wales and Northern Ireland will be handed exam grades as predicted by their teachers instead of a controversial algorithm. READ MORE: Gavin Williamson’s massive feud with Tory MPs laid bare
Boris Johnson holiday: Is Boris Johnson still on holiday?
Boris Johnson holiday: Gavin Williamson today apologised for the upset caused by A-level results
READ MORE Nervy EU blinks first with MAJOR trade deal concession Education Secretary Gavin Williamson today apologised for causing distress to students regarding their grades. He said he is "incredibly sorry for the distress" caused to pupils after having to make a U-turn in how A-levels and GCSEs are graded. Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme he said: “I would like to start off by apologising - saying sorry to all those young people who've been affected by this. “This is something none of us expected to see and none of us wanted to see.”
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Boris Johnson holiday: Around 40 percent of grades were downgraded
The controversial algorithm led to heartbreaking stories from pupils who had missed out on places based on the performance of their school over recent years, in spite of their predicted grades from teachers. One student tweeted: “Simple fact my dream has been shattered, predicted a B in my REPEAT exam and given a D - rejected from queens to study Psychology due to this ridiculous system- appalled by the treatment of students this year, heartbroken. A CHANGE IS NEEDED!” Another wrote: “I lost my place at Oxford despite being given AAA. I was predicted 3 A*s; all 3 of my A Level grades were downgraded. I go to a state comprehensive too!” One Twitter user added: “I was predicted ABC and was awarded CCD last week. I lost my place at my dream uni. I hope this encourages the government to award Alevel students the grades they deserve #ALevelProtests #wheresBoris #gcses2020”. DON'T MISS
Boris Johnson holiday: Where is Boris Johnson? [INSIGHT]
Boris Johnson vows to be ‘ruthless’ on quarantine rules [EXPLAINER]
Boris Johnson says he will be ‘ruthless’ about travel ban [ANALYSIS]
READ MORE Coronavirus LIVE: Riot police deployed to enforce mask-wearing Many social media users have condemned the PM for his absence during the current scandal. On Twitter user wrote: “Through all of this @BorisJohnson remains on holiday, who can doubt Cummings is calling the shots and getting it wrong. The Vote Leave cabal might have known how to run a divisive, corrupt campaign but they have no idea how to run a country.” Another added: “It is futile asking #WheresBoris, just as it's hopeless demanding that Gavin Williamson resign. This Gov't has shown clearly that it will act with impunity, regardless of what we want - they simply don't give a f**k. Our only hope is in 2024 when we can vote them out…” One Twitter user added: “This calamitous government is wrecking our country, our kids future & our economy. When a few pissed off people attack them on twitter over #ALevelsResults we get another #UTurn Imagine what we could do if 3.5 percent of the population took to the streets in real anger. #wheresBoris”. One person wrote: “Can people please stop saying that Boris is taking a holiday from taking responsibility? You can’t take a holiday from something you’ve never done. #wheresBoris”.
Boris Johnson holiday: Many social media users have criticised the PM for his absence
Where is Boris Johnson? Downing Street confirmed Mr Johnson is currently taking a break north of the border in Scotland this week. Mr Johnson is not expected to return to work until the following week. Asked if the PM could cut short his holiday, the spokesperson said: “The Prime Minister will be kept up to date and will continue to receive updates and briefings as necessary.” Reportedly the PM is spending his holiday camping in Scotland with his finance Carrie Symonds and young son Wilfred.


thedailyexpress--2020-08-18--Nicola Sturgeon sparks furious reaction as she hints at Aberdeen lockdown extension

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Speaking during the Scottish Government 's daily briefing , Nicola Sturgeon said 220 confirmed coronavirus cases in the NHS Grampian area were linked to the outbreak in Aberdeen pubs , up from 207 on Monday .
In recent days , Ms Sturgeon said , there has been a decline in the number of cases in Aberdeen , suggesting restrictions being put in place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases were higher in the NHS Grampian area than in the rest of the country .
Despite the improving numbers , the First Minister said it was too early to say if the measures in Aberdeen would be lifted on Wednesday when they are reviewed .
Ms Sturgeon also said the outbreak discovered in Coupar Angus on Monday has nine confirmed cases , although she will be `` very surprised '' if the figure does not increase in the coming days .
Further outbreaks in Lanarkshire and Glasgow have also been identified , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three different secondary schools - and 14 cases , some of which were pupils at the same school , respectively have been confirmed .
Both of these have been linked to indoor meetings of young people and the First Minister stressed the cluster is thought to have been transmitted outside schools .
READ MORE : Boris Johnson on alert as poll indicates SNP could hang onto power

Nicola Sturgeon on potential lockdown extension in Aberdeen
Speaking during the Scottish Government's daily briefing, Nicola Sturgeon said 220 confirmed coronavirus cases in the NHS Grampian area were linked to the outbreak in Aberdeen pubs, up from 207 on Monday. In recent days, Ms Sturgeon said, there has been a decline in the number of cases in Aberdeen, suggesting restrictions being put in place were having an impact, although new cases were higher in the NHS Grampian area than in the rest of the country.
Trending
Despite the improving numbers, the First Minister said it was too early to say if the measures in Aberdeen would be lifted on Wednesday when they are reviewed. Ms Sturgeon also said the outbreak discovered in Coupar Angus on Monday has nine confirmed cases, although she will be "very surprised" if the figure does not increase in the coming days. Further outbreaks in Lanarkshire and Glasgow have also been identified, where eight - including five pupils from three different secondary schools - and 14 cases, some of which were pupils at the same school, respectively have been confirmed. Both of these have been linked to indoor meetings of young people and the First Minister stressed the cluster is thought to have been transmitted outside schools. READ MORE: Boris Johnson on alert as poll indicates SNP could hang onto power
Nicola Sturgeon hinted the Aberdeen lockdown could be extended
Nicola Sturgeon denies transmission of COVID in Scottish cluster happened in schools
Aberdeen residents were quick to react to the unwelcome news. One viewer wrote on Twitter: "Seven positive cases in Grampian, much lower than before, also lower than many other areas. "Yet it sounds like you are still going to consider extending Aberdeen’s lockdown. "Interesting to know how few of the seven cases are in Aberdeen itself! Lift the 5-mile ban!!"
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Nicola Sturgeon: Aberdeen footballers ‘blatantly broke the rules’
Another one snapped: "Maybe if she visited the place she would know the difference between Aberdeen and Grampian." One resident pleaded: "Nicola can you please let us have a bit of normality back tomorrow in Aberdeen. "I have a desperate little one. Who would love to have her grandparents over for a cuppa. "Please don't tarnish us all with the same brush. As 90 percent of us have been good." The First Minister also said that individual cases have been confirmed in primary school pupils in Blairgowrie, Perth and Paisley. DON'T MISS:
Nicola Sturgeon adviser blames 'ENGLISH PEOPLE' for COVID-19 [INSIGHT]
SNP appoints supporter of own party to lead independent probe [ANALYSIS]
Sturgeon accused of not being transparent over COVID-19 test and trace [REACTION]
Coronavirus UK latest stats as of August 17


thedailyexpress--2020-08-18--EU plot revealed: Andrew Neil highlights Brussels’s latest plot for ‘more Europe’

The EU ’ s chief diplomat Josep Borrell , claimed the member states broke taboos by agreeing to the huge coronavirus rescue package in July .
The journalist tweeted : “ By the time the COVID-19 crisis is over , people in the EU will be ‘ convinced ’ of the need for ‘ more Europe ’ , says EU ’ s chief diplomat Josep Borrell .
“ He thinks pandemic broke ‘ taboos ’ on common debt to finance grants to EU members — a ‘ huge step ’ to further European integration.
” Despite Mr Borrell ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreed after one of the longest EU summits recorded .
The package , consisting of €390billion ( £352billion ) in grants and €360billion ( £325billion ) in repayable loans , was agreed by the EU 27 to help states recover from the pandemic .
However , the package was heavily criticised for the large makeup of non-repayable grants by states such as Holland , Austria , Denmark and Sweden .
In order to agree the package , the ‘ Frugal Four ’ states were awarded larger rebates .
The EU also agreed in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Multiannual Financial Framework .
Although the budget must be ratified by the EU Parliament , the total financial outlay now stands at €1.82trillion ( £1.6trillion ) of the two packages .
EU Council President , Charles Michel welcomed the conclusion of negotiations , others have insisted the total package has now removed certain spending areas .
An instrument used to save companies facing financial ruin – worth €26billion ( £23.5billion ) – was scrapped .
JUST IN : Nervy EU blinks first with MAJOR trade deal concession A top-up to the EU ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reduced , while a fund to help lower-income countries reduce their carbon emissions was also dropped from €30billion to €10billion ( £27billion to £9billion ) .
Both Poland and Hungary had threatened to veto the new package .
The two have been under rule of law proceedings and insisted they would block any packages if the money were linked to the ongoing action from the EU Parliament .
Under Article 7 of the Treaty of the European Union , the bloc can remove any member state that does not adhere to the bloc @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU trade deal is still possible , says No 10 [ Update ] Pound to euro exchange rate : Brexit trade talks may see GBP fluctuate [ Latest ] Switzerland warned EU could ignore efforts to quit key pact [ Insight ] Poland ’ s Law and Justice party has been accused of implementing new legislation which infringes the independence of judges in the country .
Viktor Orban ’ s Fidesz party has also been accused of pushing anti-immigration proposals and of major corruption .
There had been speculation to link the new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did not agree any specific mechanism to do this .
EU leaders will also hold an emergency video conference amid the deepening crisis in Belarus following the country ’ s election last week .
Many have accused current President , Alexander Lukashenko of rigging the vote and also using security forces to enforce a brutal regime .
Due to the outspread protests against the President following his election victory , the EU has imposed sanctions on Belarusian officials .

Brexit: UK could ‘mimic Global Europe’ model claims expert
The EU’s chief diplomat Josep Borrell, claimed the member states broke taboos by agreeing to the huge coronavirus rescue package in July. The journalist tweeted: “By the time the COVID-19 crisis is over, people in the EU will be ‘convinced’ of the need for ‘more Europe’, says EU’s chief diplomat Josep Borrell. “He thinks pandemic broke ‘taboos’ on common debt to finance grants to EU members — a ‘huge step’ to further European integration.”
Trending
Despite Mr Borrell’s claim, the coronavirus package was only agreed after one of the longest EU summits recorded. The package, consisting of €390billion (£352billion) in grants and €360billion (£325billion) in repayable loans, was agreed by the EU 27 to help states recover from the pandemic. However, the package was heavily criticised for the large makeup of non-repayable grants by states such as Holland, Austria, Denmark and Sweden. In order to agree the package, the ‘Frugal Four’ states were awarded larger rebates.
Andrew Neil: EU plot revealed
Eu news: Andrew Neil
The EU also agreed in principle, the €1.074trillion (£970billion) Multiannual Financial Framework. Although the budget must be ratified by the EU Parliament, the total financial outlay now stands at €1.82trillion (£1.6trillion) of the two packages. EU Council President, Charles Michel welcomed the conclusion of negotiations, others have insisted the total package has now removed certain spending areas. An instrument used to save companies facing financial ruin – worth €26billion (£23.5billion) – was scrapped. JUST IN: Nervy EU blinks first with MAJOR trade deal concession
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Eu news: Josep Borrell
A top-up to the EU’s Horizon science programme was also radically reduced, while a fund to help lower-income countries reduce their carbon emissions was also dropped from €30billion to €10billion (£27billion to £9billion). Both Poland and Hungary had threatened to veto the new package. The two have been under rule of law proceedings and insisted they would block any packages if the money were linked to the ongoing action from the EU Parliament. Under Article 7 of the Treaty of the European Union, the bloc can remove any member state that does not adhere to the bloc’s values. DON'T MISS
EU trade deal is still possible, says No 10 [Update]
Pound to euro exchange rate: Brexit trade talks may see GBP fluctuate [Latest]
Switzerland warned EU could ignore efforts to quit key pact [Insight]
Eu news: EU leader agreed the package in July
EU news: Viktor Orban
Poland’s Law and Justice party has been accused of implementing new legislation which infringes the independence of judges in the country. Viktor Orban’s Fidesz party has also been accused of pushing anti-immigration proposals and of major corruption. There had been speculation to link the new package towards these proceedings but the summit did not agree any specific mechanism to do this. EU leaders will also hold an emergency video conference amid the deepening crisis in Belarus following the country’s election last week.
Von der Leyen on ‘regrettable’ decisions made in EU budget
Many have accused current President, Alexander Lukashenko of rigging the vote and also using security forces to enforce a brutal regime. Due to the outspread protests against the President following his election victory, the EU has imposed sanctions on Belarusian officials.
Eu news: The summit was the longest on record


thedailyexpress--2020-08-18--Brexit breakthrough: Nervous EU blinks first with MAJOR trade deal concession

European Union officials believe talks over a free-trade deal could be unlocked if David Frost is able to present Britain ’ s future plans for its state aid regime .
Michel Barnier is understood to be ready to soften his demands for the UK to maintain the bloc ’ s laws governing tax breaks and state subsidies as part of the so-called “ level-playing field ” .
The Frenchman had been ordered by member states to force Britain to align to Brussels ’ anti-competition regime .
But European sources have claimed establishing a “ common approach ” between both sides @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson complete control over Britain ’ s system .
“ We need an understanding of what we consider the common rules , ” one source told Express.co.uk .
“ What we ’ re trying to see is what the state aid system is going to be and then the EU can establish how compatible it is with the type of partnership we ’ re considering.
” This could allow both sides to build plans for a dispute resolution mechanism that would allow either the UK and EU to retaliate against any perceived deviations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is yet to set out its future state aid regime for after the EU ’ s grip over Britain ’ s rules ends when the transition period expires on December 31 .
The Prime Minister has been adamant any deal with Brussels must give the Government full control over policy decisions for the UK .
But trade experts have suggested Mr Johnson could form a clever pact with the EU to hamstring future Labour governments by blocking them from renationalising businesses .
Shanker Singham , Chairman of Global Economic Neural Networks , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re not going to have a centre-right government in the UK forever .
“ They came very close to having a Jeremy Corbyn government that would have nationalised Electricite de France and the German power companies .
“ The smart thing for the EU to do is put in place some disciplines on the UK to stop them doing those kinds of things.
” Mr Frost returns to Brussels today to pick up the negotiations after a short summer hiatus .
Wrangling over a trade deal with Brussels last month ended in deadlock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
MUST READ : Brexit LIVE : Frost to put Barnier in place after sensational claims But No 10 believes a deal is still possible by the end of September and will work hard to “ plug the gaps ” between the two sides .
A Downing Street spokesman said : “ There are many issues that will be discussed during this week ’ s round , not least a level-playing field , fisheries , trade in goods and services .
“ There are many areas where there is convergence but we will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where any differences remain .
DO N'T MISS Spain will NEVER be able to drive a wedge between UK and the Rock [ INSIGHT ] Switzerland warned EU could ignore efforts to quit key pact [ ANALYSIS ] Boris Johnson told to ‘ use Brexit opportunity to maximum effect ’ [ VIDEO ]

Brexit: Boris Johnson says a ‘deal is there to be done’
European Union officials believe talks over a free-trade deal could be unlocked if David Frost is able to present Britain’s future plans for its state aid regime. Michel Barnier is understood to be ready to soften his demands for the UK to maintain the bloc’s laws governing tax breaks and state subsidies as part of the so-called “level-playing field”. The Frenchman had been ordered by member states to force Britain to align to Brussels’ anti-competition regime.
Trending
But European sources have claimed establishing a “common approach” between both sides for state aid policies could allow Boris Johnson complete control over Britain’s system. “We need an understanding of what we consider the common rules,” one source told Express.co.uk. “What we’re trying to see is what the state aid system is going to be and then the EU can establish how compatible it is with the type of partnership we’re considering.” This could allow both sides to build plans for a dispute resolution mechanism that would allow either the UK and EU to retaliate against any perceived deviations from their common understandings.
Publication of Britain's state aid plans could unlock deadlocked Brexit talks, says EU sources
David Frost is the UK's chief negotiator with Brussels
Downing Street is yet to set out its future state aid regime for after the EU’s grip over Britain’s rules ends when the transition period expires on December 31. The Prime Minister has been adamant any deal with Brussels must give the Government full control over policy decisions for the UK. But trade experts have suggested Mr Johnson could form a clever pact with the EU to hamstring future Labour governments by blocking them from renationalising businesses. Shanker Singham, Chairman of Global Economic Neural Networks, said: “The EU knows they’re not going to have a centre-right government in the UK forever.
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Michel Barnier is the EU's lead Brexit envoy
“They came very close to having a Jeremy Corbyn government that would have nationalised Electricite de France and the German power companies. “The smart thing for the EU to do is put in place some disciplines on the UK to stop them doing those kinds of things.” Mr Frost returns to Brussels today to pick up the negotiations after a short summer hiatus. Wrangling over a trade deal with Brussels last month ended in deadlock over fishing rights and the level-playing field. MUST READ: Brexit LIVE: Frost to put Barnier in place after sensational claims
David Frost and Michel Barnier during a previous round of talks in Brussels
Brexit must be used to its 'maximum effect' says expert


thedailyexpress--2020-08-18--Brexit POLL: As EU talks begin seventh round, should UK withdraw and prepare for no deal?

David Frost , the UK 's chief Brexit negotiator , will head to Brussels today alongside 50 civil servants for the seventh round of trade talks with the EU .
Mr Frost will meet Michel Barnier , his EU counterpart , for dinner this evening before negotiations kick off tomorrow .
The seventh round of talks will take place from Wednesday through til Thursday , with a breakfast round-up session scheduled for Friday morning .
Neither side is confident a breakthrough will take place , as they remain deadlocked on a number of key areas .
These include fishing rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ demand and the European Court of Justice ( ECJ ) .
As a result , Express.co.uk is asking its readers whether you think the UK should withdraw from the trade talks with the bloc and prepare for a no deal instead ?
Brussels are quietly confident the UK will begin to soften on their red lines , after trade talks with the US , Japan and New Zealand deteriorated in recent weeks .
One EU official , who is closely involved in the post-Brexit trade talks , told Politico : “ The UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the clock is ticking , reality will start to sink in in London .
`` The UK might not always have behaved rationally in its negotiations with Brussels , but surely the pandemic and the lack of trade alternatives must lead to some reason in London . ''
JUST IN : Brexit LIVE : Frost to put Barnier in place after sensational claims But a UK official scoffed at such a statement , and said it 's `` a bit of a stretch '' to claim Britain will rush to do a deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ negotiations have stalled .
A leading expert has called on Britain to stand firm and not cave to the EU 's demands .
David Henig , the UK director of the European Centre For International Political Economy said : `` The UK Government 's ambitions for new trade agreements this year always looked unachievable , but this does n't mean they will change their approach to EU talks and prioritise a deal .
`` The EU does n't have a great record in understanding motivations in London .
The politics of Brexit having @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
DO N'T MISS : Nicola Sturgeon given green light for Scotland to join EU [ INSIGHT ] Remainer plot : ' A-level U-turn ... now let 's make them reverse Brexit ' [ DETAILS ] Brexit fishing fury : 'Inevitable conflict ' with EU fishermen predicted [ ANALYSIS ] The two sides have until October to secure a deal , to ensure the agreement is ratified by the European and British parliaments in time .
If a deal has not been reached , the UK 's trade with the bloc will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) terms .
But Mr Frost remains confident a deal will be reached by the end of next month .
He wrote on Twitter : `` Our assessment is that agreement can be reached in September and we will work to achieve this if we can . ''

Brexit: Boris Johnson says a ‘deal is there to be done’
David Frost, the UK's chief Brexit negotiator, will head to Brussels today alongside 50 civil servants for the seventh round of trade talks with the EU. Mr Frost will meet Michel Barnier, his EU counterpart, for dinner this evening before negotiations kick off tomorrow. THIS POLL HAS NOW CLOSED. VIEW THE RESULTS HERE.
Trending
The seventh round of talks will take place from Wednesday through til Thursday, with a breakfast round-up session scheduled for Friday morning. Neither side is confident a breakthrough will take place, as they remain deadlocked on a number of key areas. These include fishing rights, the EU's level playing field demand and the European Court of Justice (ECJ). As a result, Express.co.uk is asking its readers whether you think the UK should withdraw from the trade talks with the bloc and prepare for a no deal instead?
Brexit news: Should UK withdraw and prepare for no deal?
Brexit news: Trade talks with the EU resume this week
Brussels are quietly confident the UK will begin to soften on their red lines, after trade talks with the US, Japan and New Zealand deteriorated in recent weeks. One EU official, who is closely involved in the post-Brexit trade talks, told Politico: “The UK desperately needs this deal. “If the clock is ticking, reality will start to sink in in London. "The UK might not always have behaved rationally in its negotiations with Brussels, but surely the pandemic and the lack of trade alternatives must lead to some reason in London." JUST IN: Brexit LIVE: Frost to put Barnier in place after sensational claims
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But a UK official scoffed at such a statement, and said it's "a bit of a stretch" to claim Britain will rush to do a deal with the bloc because its other trade negotiations have stalled. A leading expert has called on Britain to stand firm and not cave to the EU's demands. David Henig, the UK director of the European Centre For International Political Economy said: "The UK Government's ambitions for new trade agreements this year always looked unachievable, but this doesn't mean they will change their approach to EU talks and prioritise a deal. "The EU doesn't have a great record in understanding motivations in London. The politics of Brexit having always been more important than the economics." DON'T MISS:
Nicola Sturgeon given green light for Scotland to join EU [INSIGHT]
Remainer plot: 'A-level U-turn... now let's make them reverse Brexit' [DETAILS]
Brexit fishing fury: 'Inevitable conflict' with EU fishermen predicted [ANALYSIS]
Brexit news: David Frost will head to Brussels today
Michel Barnier is the EU's chief Brexit negotiator
The two sides have until October to secure a deal, to ensure the agreement is ratified by the European and British parliaments in time. If a deal has not been reached, the UK's trade with the bloc will default to World Trade Organisation (WTO) terms. But Mr Frost remains confident a deal will be reached by the end of next month. He wrote on Twitter: "Our assessment is that agreement can be reached in September and we will work to achieve this if we can."
Brexit timeline


thedailyexpress--2020-08-18--Sturgeon claims 65,000 people will be tested every day...but rivals fear 'shambolic saga'

The First Minister said today she wanted to be able to carry out 65,000 coronavirus tests a day as the Scottish Government revealed an updated testing strategy .
Currently , 40,000 tests for the virus can be carried out each weekday and the SNP administration says work is now being done to increase this , in part to cope with greater demand in autumn and winter .
But Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said testing is being used to `` actively hunt down the virus '' .
Close contacts of those confirmed as having COVID-19 have now been identified as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the revised strategy `` seeks to give a concise and clear explanation of whom we are seeking to test , why we are doing so and what our plans in the near future are '' .
She said this `` sets our intention to further increase testing capacity in Scotland '' , which she said , `` will be increasingly important as we move into the autumn and winter '' .
The SNP leader explained : `` In those months more people will have symptoms such as a new cold , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Current weekday capacity in Scotland is for just over 40,000 tests every day but we want to and are working to increase that to 65,000 tests a day . ''
Ms Sturgeon said the `` top priority continues to be to test anyone who has symptoms of COVID '' , such as a high temperature , new cough or change in sense of taste and smell .
But she stressed that the second priority now was “ testing contacts of people with COVID and using testing in that way to prevent or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ READ MORE : Scottish NHS sent COVID-19 positive patients to care homes Meanwhile , she said that the third priority was routine testing of people who work in higher-risk environments , such as care homes .
Under the plans , all contacts of people classed as `` COVID-19 index cases '' will now be offered testing , regardless of whether they have symptoms .
Such contacts are currently advised to isolate at home for 14 days .
They will still be asked to do this but it is hoped testing will enable further @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contain future outbreaks of the disease .
DO N'T MISS : Boris Johnson on alert as poll indicates SNP could hang onto power [ REVEAL ] Nicola Sturgeon adviser blames 'ENGLISH PEOPLE ' for COVID-19 [ INSIGHT ] SNP shamed : Only ONE pub asked to share customer details to stop COVID [ LATEST ] Richard Leonard MSP , leader of Scottish Labour told Express.co.uk tonight : “ From the very beginning , Scottish Labour has emphasised the importance of testing in tackling this pandemic .
“ The SNP government spent months testing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proclaimed capacity , failed to test care workers at the most critical stage of the outbreak , and abandoned contact tracing before re-adopting it .
“ I welcome the increase in capacity - but the government must also ensure the infrastructure is in place to use this capacity , or we will see yet another shambles in our testing saga.
” MSP Alex Cole-Hamilton , Scottish Liberal Democrat health spokesman , added : `` Testing might not be a one-stop-shop solution but it is a very important part of the puzzle which will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We should not only be upping our future testing capacity but fully utilising the capacity we already have .
“ University students , school teachers and people visiting care homes would all benefit from more regular testing .
“ Every case we catch could stop an outbreak . ''
The Scottish Government Strategy , released today , concluded : “ Testing is one important tool in our overall approach to managing the pandemic in Scotland and reducing as far as is possible all of the harms caused by COVID-19 .

Jeane Freeman on virus tracing after Scotland Nike conference
The First Minister said today she wanted to be able to carry out 65,000 coronavirus tests a day as the Scottish Government revealed an updated testing strategy. Currently, 40,000 tests for the virus can be carried out each weekday and the SNP administration says work is now being done to increase this, in part to cope with greater demand in autumn and winter.
Trending
But Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said testing is being used to "actively hunt down the virus". Close contacts of those confirmed as having COVID-19 have now been identified as a priority group for testing. Ms Sturgeon said the revised strategy "seeks to give a concise and clear explanation of whom we are seeking to test, why we are doing so and what our plans in the near future are". She said this "sets our intention to further increase testing capacity in Scotland", which she said, "will be increasingly important as we move into the autumn and winter".
The Scottish Government want to test 65,000 people a day
Jeane Freeman previously gave evidence to MSPs
The SNP leader explained: "In those months more people will have symptoms such as a new cold, which might be similar to COVID symptoms. "Current weekday capacity in Scotland is for just over 40,000 tests every day but we want to and are working to increase that to 65,000 tests a day." Ms Sturgeon said the "top priority continues to be to test anyone who has symptoms of COVID", such as a high temperature, new cough or change in sense of taste and smell. But she stressed that the second priority now was “testing contacts of people with COVID and using testing in that way to prevent or minimise new outbreaks of the virus.” READ MORE: Scottish NHS sent COVID-19 positive patients to care homes
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Scottish Health Secretary Jeane Freeman
Meanwhile, she said that the third priority was routine testing of people who work in higher-risk environments, such as care homes. Under the plans, all contacts of people classed as "COVID-19 index cases" will now be offered testing, regardless of whether they have symptoms. Such contacts are currently advised to isolate at home for 14 days. They will still be asked to do this but it is hoped testing will enable further contacts to be identified, helping to contain future outbreaks of the disease. DON'T MISS:
Boris Johnson on alert as poll indicates SNP could hang onto power [REVEAL]
Nicola Sturgeon adviser blames 'ENGLISH PEOPLE' for COVID-19 [INSIGHT]
SNP shamed: Only ONE pub asked to share customer details to stop COVID [LATEST]
COVID-19 test sample analysis taking place in Glasgow
Richard Leonard MSP, leader of Scottish Labour told Express.co.uk tonight: “From the very beginning, Scottish Labour has emphasised the importance of testing in tackling this pandemic. “The SNP government spent months testing at a level well below its own proclaimed capacity, failed to test care workers at the most critical stage of the outbreak, and abandoned contact tracing before re-adopting it. “I welcome the increase in capacity - but the government must also ensure the infrastructure is in place to use this capacity, or we will see yet another shambles in our testing saga.” MSP Alex Cole-Hamilton, Scottish Liberal Democrat health spokesman, added: "Testing might not be a one-stop-shop solution but it is a very important part of the puzzle which will ultimately get us out of this crisis.
There had previously been issues with care home testing
"We should not only be upping our future testing capacity but fully utilising the capacity we already have. “University students, school teachers and people visiting care homes would all benefit from more regular testing. “Every case we catch could stop an outbreak." The Scottish Government Strategy, released today, concluded: “Testing is one important tool in our overall approach to managing the pandemic in Scotland and reducing as far as is possible all of the harms caused by COVID-19.
Nicola Sturgeon briefed everyone on the new strategy today


thedailyexpress--2020-08-19--Brexit PANIC: Desperate EU banking on UK urgency to force late trade deal breakthrough

The latest round of talks resume in Brussels this week , with both sides remaining confident a free trade agreement ( FTA ) can be struck over the coming weeks .
Both sides have repeatedly lashed out at each other over the lack of progress made , warning time is running out to get a deal over the line in time for it to be ratified by the European Parliament by the end of the Brexit transition period on December 31 UK and EU negotiators are refusing to give ground on several red lines - including fishing access , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the role of the European Court of Justice ( ECJ ) .
Earlier today , the EU warned while it will continue to negotiate in a constructive manner with the UK , a trade deal needs to be agreed by October at the very latest .
An EU official closely involved in talks ahead of this week 's latest round told Politico : `` The UK desperately needs this deal .
If the clock is ticking , reality will start to sink in in London .
`` The UK might not always have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but surely the pandemic and the lack of trade alternatives must lead to some reason in London . ''
Britain has experienced a series of setbacks in trade negotiations with other countries , which it had hoped would increase the pressure on the EU to compromise on some of its crucial red lines .
The UK and Japan could not announce a trade deal as planned at the beginning of this month , while New Zealand gas indicated British negotiators are unprepared for trade talks .
Negotiations with the US continue will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ season , but it is unlikely Washington will push through a deal before the vote in November .
David Henig , the UK director of the European Centre For International Political Economy , said : `` The UK Government 's ambitions for new trade agreements this year always looked unachievable , but this does n't mean they will change their approach to EU talks and prioritise a deal .
`` The EU does n't have a great record in understanding motivations in London .
The politics of Brexit having always been more important @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Brexit LIVE : Envoy hails future US deal ahead of Frost-Barnier clash It is unlikely this week 's latest negotiating round between the UK and EU will force a major breakthrough , but there has been some progress , predominantly on the issue of governance .
Brussels wants an overarching agreement , where a dispute in one area could lead to repercussions in another , but the UK had previously wanted several mini-deals with their own governance arrangements .
Mr Frost said at the end of last month the UK has “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a complex Switzerland-style set of agreements and we are ready to consider simpler structures '' .
But EU negotiators have also shown signs of compromise , having acknowledged the political sensitivity of the role of the ECJ in the UK , and is looking for legal solutions that will satisfy both sides .
DO N'T MISS EU chief has politically weaponised COVID-19 to serve EU [ OPINION ] EU trade deal is still possible , says No 10 [ COMMENT ] Boris vows to 'plug the gaps ' in Brexit talks - deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a notable stalemate on fisheries , but a deal on this will probably only be struck towards the end of negotiations .
The EU demanding little change here and wants its vessels to be able to access British waters , but the UK is adamant it will decide who can fish — and how much they can catch — in its waters .
On the issue of the level playing field , Mr Barnier has warned : “ The UK wants to regain its regulatory autonomy .
OK , we respect that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this new regulatory autonomy to distort competition with us ?
We have to answer this question as we commit to a new economic partnership.
” Reports the EU has been willing to compromise on state aid have been rubbished in Brussels , with officials warning Britain should not necessarily accept future EU state aid rules , they should be more clear on its future subsidy regime .

Brexit: Boris Johnson says a ‘deal is there to be done’
The latest round of talks resume in Brussels this week, with both sides remaining confident a free trade agreement (FTA) can be struck over the coming weeks. Both sides have repeatedly lashed out at each other over the lack of progress made, warning time is running out to get a deal over the line in time for it to be ratified by the European Parliament by the end of the Brexit transition period on December 31 UK and EU negotiators are refusing to give ground on several red lines - including fishing access, the level playing field, state aid and the role of the European Court of Justice (ECJ).
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Earlier today, the EU warned while it will continue to negotiate in a constructive manner with the UK, a trade deal needs to be agreed by October at the very latest. An EU official closely involved in talks ahead of this week's latest round told Politico: "The UK desperately needs this deal. If the clock is ticking, reality will start to sink in in London. "The UK might not always have behaved rationally in its negotiations with Brussels, but surely the pandemic and the lack of trade alternatives must lead to some reason in London." Britain has experienced a series of setbacks in trade negotiations with other countries, which it had hoped would increase the pressure on the EU to compromise on some of its crucial red lines.
Brexit news: An EU diplomat has claimed all the pressure is on the UK in trade talks
Brexit news: Michel Barnier has repeatedly lashed out at UK negotiations during trade talks
The UK and Japan could not announce a trade deal as planned at the beginning of this month, while New Zealand gas indicated British negotiators are unprepared for trade talks. Negotiations with the US continue will continue during the country's presidential election season, but it is unlikely Washington will push through a deal before the vote in November. David Henig, the UK director of the European Centre For International Political Economy, said: "The UK Government's ambitions for new trade agreements this year always looked unachievable, but this doesn't mean they will change their approach to EU talks and prioritise a deal. "The EU doesn't have a great record in understanding motivations in London. The politics of Brexit having always been more important than the economics." READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: Envoy hails future US deal ahead of Frost-Barnier clash
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Brexit news: Boris Johnson refused to extend the transition period beyond December 31
It is unlikely this week's latest negotiating round between the UK and EU will force a major breakthrough, but there has been some progress, predominantly on the issue of governance. Brussels wants an overarching agreement, where a dispute in one area could lead to repercussions in another, but the UK had previously wanted several mini-deals with their own governance arrangements. Mr Frost said at the end of last month the UK has “heard the EU’s concerns about a complex Switzerland-style set of agreements and we are ready to consider simpler structures". But EU negotiators have also shown signs of compromise, having acknowledged the political sensitivity of the role of the ECJ in the UK, and is looking for legal solutions that will satisfy both sides. DON'T MISS
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Brexit news: The UK and EU are resuming trade talks in Brussels this week
Brexit news: David Frost is leading the UK's negotiating team
There is a notable stalemate on fisheries, but a deal on this will probably only be struck towards the end of negotiations. The EU demanding little change here and wants its vessels to be able to access British waters, but the UK is adamant it will decide who can fish — and how much they can catch — in its waters. On the issue of the level playing field, Mr Barnier has warned: “The UK wants to regain its regulatory autonomy. OK, we respect that. “But can the UK use this new regulatory autonomy to distort competition with us? We have to answer this question as we commit to a new economic partnership.” Reports the EU has been willing to compromise on state aid have been rubbished in Brussels, with officials warning Britain should not necessarily accept future EU state aid rules, they should be more clear on its future subsidy regime.
Brexit news: Negotiations on the EU-UK future partnership


thedailyexpress--2020-08-19--Brexit deal on the brink: EU rejects UK demands as ‘fundamentally unbalanced’

Brussels said British demands on haulage access were too close to single market rights and were `` fundamentally unbalanced '' .
The latest round of post-Brexit trade talks between both sides kicked off in the Belgian capital on Tuesday .
British-based haulage groups have warned that without a trade deal in place by December 31 , hauliers and businesses both in the UK and across the Channel would suffer .
They have warned of increased costs if chief negotiators Michel Barnier and David Frost can not reach an agreement .
Britain argued truckers should be allowed to continue working in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This would mean they could make pick-ups and drop-offs both inside EU member states and between them .
But the Commission refused to bow to pressure , the Financial Times reports , pointing to their level playing field demand .
The Commission said continued cabotage rights would be too closed to the level of access to the single market which the UK enjoyed before Brexit .
READ MORE : Child migrants will no longer be cared for by 'exhausted ' Kent Council A person briefed on the talks said : “ The Commission @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fundamentally unbalanced and would give rights to UK hauliers that are extremely close to single market membership . ''
Another source familiar with the matter said the UK could not enjoy the same privileges in the future which it benefits from today .
The person said : “ We can not allow the UK to maintain pretty much the same access as it has today . ''
DO N'T MISS Brexit PANIC : Desperate EU banking on UK urgency to force breakthrough [ INSIGHT ] Boris Johnson 's plot to exploit Keir Starmer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Brexit deal deadline looms - Is no deal Brexit on the cards ?
[ ANSWERED ] The rejection comes after the EU warned a post-Brexit trade deal would have to be completed `` in October at the latest '' .
On Monday a spokesman for the EU Commission said the EU wants an `` ambitious and fair partnership with the UK '' , but a deal must be achieved by the end of October for it to be ratified in time .
A spokesman for No 10 said the Government is still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ September .
Asked whether the EU is confident a deal can be achieved in September , an EU Commission spokesman reiterated the October timeline .
He said : `` The important thing to note - and I would point you first of all back to what Michel Barnier himself said in London at the end of the last round of negotiations - that , first of all , we want a deal , we want to have an ambitious and fair partnership with the UK , and that we must come to an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' He added : `` This week and over the coming weeks we will remain constructive , we will remain engaged and respectful with the UK negotiating team in order to reach a deal . ''

Brexit: Boris Johnson says a ‘deal is there to be done’
Brussels said British demands on haulage access were too close to single market rights and were "fundamentally unbalanced". The latest round of post-Brexit trade talks between both sides kicked off in the Belgian capital on Tuesday.
British-based haulage groups have warned that without a trade deal in place by December 31, hauliers and businesses both in the UK and across the Channel would suffer. They have warned of increased costs if chief negotiators Michel Barnier and David Frost cannot reach an agreement. Britain argued truckers should be allowed to continue working in the EU under existing cabotage rules.
BREXIT: The EU has slapped down the UK's demand for trucking access
Boris Johnson has said a trade deal would have to be agreed by October
This would mean they could make pick-ups and drop-offs both inside EU member states and between them. But the Commission refused to bow to pressure, the Financial Times reports, pointing to their level playing field demand. The Commission said continued cabotage rights would be too closed to the level of access to the single market which the UK enjoyed before Brexit. READ MORE: Child migrants will no longer be cared for by 'exhausted' Kent Council
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Boris Johnson on a trip to Northern Ireland
Officials in Gibraltar are preparing for a no-deal Brexit
Michel Barnier in London for talks
The rejection comes after the EU warned a post-Brexit trade deal would have to be completed "in October at the latest". On Monday a spokesman for the EU Commission said the EU wants an "ambitious and fair partnership with the UK", but a deal must be achieved by the end of October for it to be ratified in time. A spokesman for No 10 said the Government is still confident a deal can be reached in September.
Brexit timeline
Asked whether the EU is confident a deal can be achieved in September, an EU Commission spokesman reiterated the October timeline. He said: "The important thing to note - and I would point you first of all back to what Michel Barnier himself said in London at the end of the last round of negotiations - that, first of all, we want a deal, we want to have an ambitious and fair partnership with the UK, and that we must come to an agreement in October at the latest." He added: "This week and over the coming weeks we will remain constructive, we will remain engaged and respectful with the UK negotiating team in order to reach a deal."
EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier


thedailyexpress--2020-08-19--Scotland angers Boris after key Brexit plan branded 'incompatible' and rejected

The SNP motion was passed by 92 votes to 31 today - whilst an opposing Tory motion calling on Scottish ministers to `` engage constructively with the UK Government '' on the plans was rejected by 30 votes to 91 .
Downing Street and Whitehall sources told Express.co.uk they were disappointed by the result .
Business Secretary Alok Sharma published a White Paper on the new laws earlier this month which will see measures which were previously managed by the EU return to the UK at the end of the year when the Brexit transition period expires .
The 160 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ procurement rules and environmental regulations will now go to one or more of the devolved administrations .
UK ministers have said the return of powers to the UK from Brussels will see the Northern Ireland administration receive responsibility in 157 of the 160 areas , Scotland in 111 and Wales in 70 .
UK ministers characterise it as a `` power surge '' for devolved administrations as responsibilities are transferred from Brussels .
But the Scottish government say that the controversial plans are a “ power grab by Westminster ” and could leave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scottish laws passed at Holyrood .
The SNP Scottish government motion said the proposals are “ incompatible with devolution and the democratic accountability of the Scottish Parliament ” .
It added that it would also `` fundamentally undermine legitimate devolved policy choices on a range of matters , including the environment , public health and social protection '' .
Alex Rowley , Scottish Labour ’ s constitution spokesman , partially agreed and said any agreement on an internal market should be reached on a four-nation basis .
Mr Rowley said : `` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK Government to recognise that any arrangement for the UK internal market must be reached by agreement between the four nations of the UK .
READ MORE : Sturgeon 's independence bid is ‘ tired ' and 'diverting ’ Scotland '' The idea that the Westminster Government can and will force its point of view on the other three nations regardless of what they think is not just ridiculous , it will almost certainly build support against remaining part of the UK and lead to the ultimate break-up of the United Kingdom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Labour amendment , which warned Westminster 's plans could `` hinder the capacity to utilise state aid interventions , including public ownership '' was also passed by 91 votes to 31 .
A Green amendment , stating the UK Government 's proposed legislation will be a `` clear breach '' of the 1998 Scotland Act , which led to the establishment of the Scottish Parliament , was also approved by 91 votes to 31 .
But MSPs voted down a Liberal Democrat amendment calling for the current plans to `` be replaced with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ market through agreed frameworks and joint decision-making between the four UK administrations in a federal arrangement '' , with this defeated by 27 votes to 95 .
DO N'T MISS : Sturgeon 's top mandarin apologises for 'failure ' in botched probe [ REVEAL ] Sturgeon claims 65,000 people will be tested every day [ INSIGHT ] Huge Scottish independence row erupts as Sturgeon issues threat [ LATEST ] Speaking for the SNP in the debate , Jenny Gilruth said the White Paper included no mechanism for negotiation between the four governments of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This means that the UK Government can impose decisions on the devolved governments with no right of appeal and no means of redress .
`` The Conservatives are kidding themselves if they ca n't see this undermines the very foundations of devolution . ''
Scottish Conservative MSP Dean Lockhart said the SNP 's EU Continuity Bill would lead to Holyrood becoming a `` passive rule-taker '' and impose the burdens of two regulatory systems on businesses .
Mr Lockhart , the party 's constitution spokesman , said the UK Government had transferred `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the last decade .
He said : `` The internal market proposals can not be viewed in isolation , they have to be viewed in the context of the significant new powers coming to this parliament .
`` Because at the end of the transition period , the Scottish Parliament will enjoy a power surge , making this parliament more powerful than ever . ''
But Whitehall sources tonight told Express.co.uk tonight the decision was `` disappointing '' stressing the Government were yet to name `` a single power which could be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ powers currently under the control of the EU would be transferred to Cardiff , Stormont and Holyrood stressing that it would be a `` power boost '' for devolution .

Alok Sharma on benefits of UK internal market for Scotland
The SNP motion was passed by 92 votes to 31 today - whilst an opposing Tory motion calling on Scottish ministers to "engage constructively with the UK Government" on the plans was rejected by 30 votes to 91. Downing Street and Whitehall sources told Express.co.uk they were disappointed by the result. Business Secretary Alok Sharma published a White Paper on the new laws earlier this month which will see measures which were previously managed by the EU return to the UK at the end of the year when the Brexit transition period expires.
Trending
The 160 policy areas including animal welfare, public procurement rules and environmental regulations will now go to one or more of the devolved administrations. UK ministers have said the return of powers to the UK from Brussels will see the Northern Ireland administration receive responsibility in 157 of the 160 areas, Scotland in 111 and Wales in 70. UK ministers characterise it as a "power surge" for devolved administrations as responsibilities are transferred from Brussels. But the Scottish government say that the controversial plans are a “power grab by Westminster” and could leave the UK Government with a veto on Scottish laws passed at Holyrood.
Scotland's parliamentary independence could be affected by the Bill
Michael Rusell submitted a motion to Parliament
The SNP Scottish government motion said the proposals are “incompatible with devolution and the democratic accountability of the Scottish Parliament”. It added that it would also "fundamentally undermine legitimate devolved policy choices on a range of matters, including the environment, public health and social protection". Alex Rowley, Scottish Labour’s constitution spokesman, partially agreed and said any agreement on an internal market should be reached on a four-nation basis. Mr Rowley said: "I want to make a direct plea to the UK Government to recognise that any arrangement for the UK internal market must be reached by agreement between the four nations of the UK. READ MORE: Sturgeon's independence bid is ‘tired' and 'diverting’ Scotland
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Scottish Greens Co-leader Patrick Harvie also submitted amendments
"The idea that the Westminster Government can and will force its point of view on the other three nations regardless of what they think is not just ridiculous, it will almost certainly build support against remaining part of the UK and lead to the ultimate break-up of the United Kingdom as we know it." A Labour amendment, which warned Westminster's plans could "hinder the capacity to utilise state aid interventions, including public ownership" was also passed by 91 votes to 31. A Green amendment, stating the UK Government's proposed legislation will be a "clear breach" of the 1998 Scotland Act, which led to the establishment of the Scottish Parliament, was also approved by 91 votes to 31. But MSPs voted down a Liberal Democrat amendment calling for the current plans to "be replaced with proposals to assist a smooth-running UK internal market through agreed frameworks and joint decision-making between the four UK administrations in a federal arrangement", with this defeated by 27 votes to 95. DON'T MISS:
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Nicola Sturgeon has also opposed the plan
Speaking for the SNP in the debate, Jenny Gilruth said the White Paper included no mechanism for negotiation between the four governments of the UK. She said: "This means that the UK Government can impose decisions on the devolved governments with no right of appeal and no means of redress. "The Conservatives are kidding themselves if they can't see this undermines the very foundations of devolution." Scottish Conservative MSP Dean Lockhart said the SNP's EU Continuity Bill would lead to Holyrood becoming a "passive rule-taker" and impose the burdens of two regulatory systems on businesses.
Alok Sharma put the white paper forward earlier this month
Mr Lockhart, the party's constitution spokesman, said the UK Government had transferred "unprecedented powers" to the Scottish Parliament over the last decade. He said: "The internal market proposals cannot be viewed in isolation, they have to be viewed in the context of the significant new powers coming to this parliament. "Because at the end of the transition period, the Scottish Parliament will enjoy a power surge, making this parliament more powerful than ever." But Whitehall sources tonight told Express.co.uk tonight the decision was "disappointing" stressing the Government were yet to name "a single power which could be removed from Holyrood." They stressed powers currently under the control of the EU would be transferred to Cardiff, Stormont and Holyrood stressing that it would be a "power boost" for devolution.
Alok Sharma on benefits of UK internal market for Scotland