thedailyexpress--2020-12-16--'Huge mistake!' Sturgeon sparks fury as she rebels from No10 on Covid Christmas rules

Nicola Sturgeon announced during her daily Covid briefing that Scots would be encouraged to limit their social interactions over the festive period .
Speaking from Edinburgh , she stressed : `` Firstly and unequivocally the safest way to spend Christmas this year for you and for those you love is to stay within your own household and your own home .
My strong recommendation is this is what you should do if at all possible . ''
The advice is at odds with comments made by the Prime Minister in the House of Commons on Wednesday .
Boris Johnson said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to three households to mix over a period of five days from December 23-27 would remain in place .
He said : `` This morning there is unanimous agreement across all the UK Government , across all the devolved administrations – including members of all parties – that we should proceed in principle with the existing regulations because we do n't want to criminalise people 's long-made plans . ''
Responding to Ms Sturgeon 's comments , social media users were quick to offer their thoughts , with one person saying : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wales and Scotland rebel after Boris REJECTS scrapping relaxation Someone else said : `` It ’ s utter madness that we can ’ t have a little bit of Christmas magic .
So disappointed . ''
A third said : `` If @ NicolaSturgeon goes on her own and changes the 'rules ' for the five days over Christmas I can categorically say I 've already made plans and wo n't be changing a thing ! ''
Another Twitter user was angry the four nations of the UK could not come to an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would think that the leaders in the UK could get one message correct this year , couldn ’ t you ?
Nope , now Christmas confusion and uncertainty for families because they can ’ t make a simple decision .
Appalling all of them . ''
The First Minister said any mixing with other households should take place outside , if possible , but that if it was `` essential '' to meet indoors people should limit the time of that meeting and the numbers involved as much as possible .
She recommended @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should only meet up with people on one day , if possible , and not stay overnight `` unless it is unavoidable '' .
She also stressed the need to limit numbers , saying : `` In short , if you have to form a bubble keep it as small as possible . ''
The First Minister said the Scottish Government was recommending against travel from areas with a high prevalence of coronavirus to parts of the country with a lower rate .
She said : `` If you have n't made plans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't .
`` If you are still swithering , please decide against .
And if you have made plans but think they are not really essential , please think about postponing until later in the year . ''
She told people : `` The reality is that this Christmas simply ca n't be normal .
But we have every reason to hope that next year will be much more normal . ''
DO N'T MISS Nicola Sturgeon squirms at Scotland 's drug figures and SNP failure [ VIDEO ] Christmas SAVED : Rules @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal [ BREAKING ] Sturgeon compared to Tony Blair over ‘ policy failures [ INSIGHT ]

Nicola Sturgeon: ‘Safest’ place is ‘your own household’ at Christmas
Nicola Sturgeon announced during her daily Covid briefing that Scots would be encouraged to limit their social interactions over the festive period. Speaking from Edinburgh, she stressed: "Firstly and unequivocally the safest way to spend Christmas this year for you and for those you love is to stay within your own household and your own home. My strong recommendation is this is what you should do if at all possible."
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The advice is at odds with comments made by the Prime Minister in the House of Commons on Wednesday. Boris Johnson said the agreed rules for families of up to three households to mix over a period of five days from December 23-27 would remain in place. He said: "This morning there is unanimous agreement across all the UK Government, across all the devolved administrations – including members of all parties – that we should proceed in principle with the existing regulations because we don't want to criminalise people's long-made plans." Responding to Ms Sturgeon's comments, social media users were quick to offer their thoughts, with one person saying: "Huge mistake!" READ MORE: Wales and Scotland rebel after Boris REJECTS scrapping relaxation
Nicola Sturgeon at her daily Covid briefing on Wednesday
Nicola Sturgeon told Scots to limit their social interactions at Christmas
Someone else said: "It’s utter madness that we can’t have a little bit of Christmas magic. So disappointed." A third said: "If @NicolaSturgeon goes on her own and changes the 'rules' for the five days over Christmas I can categorically say I've already made plans and won't be changing a thing!" Another Twitter user was angry the four nations of the UK could not come to an agreement. They wrote: "You would think that the leaders in the UK could get one message correct this year, couldn’t you? Nope, now Christmas confusion and uncertainty for families because they can’t make a simple decision. Appalling all of them." The First Minister said any mixing with other households should take place outside, if possible, but that if it was "essential" to meet indoors people should limit the time of that meeting and the numbers involved as much as possible.
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Sturgeon grilled over Scotland’s drug death figures
What is a support bubble?


thedailyexpress--2020-12-16--Christmas rules CHAOS: Wales and Scotland rebel after Boris REJECTS scrapping relaxation

First Minister of Wales Mark Drakeford and First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon have both changed the Christmas advice for their respective nations residents .
Ms Sturgeon said governments across the UK did `` not intend to take away the flexibility '' over Christmas .
It comes as Prime Minister Boris Johnson has urged people to `` exercise extreme caution '' and avoid seeing elderly relatives at Christmas as efforts to maintain a UK-wide approach to easing coronavirus rules faltered .
The original UK-wide plans would have seen three households allowed to form a festive bubble between December 23 and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are being advised to limit their bubbles to two households , while in Scotland the guidance on what people should do is being strengthened .
Addressing MP ’ s at Prime Minister ’ s Questions , Mr Johnson stressed it was right to `` stress the importance of people taking care this Christmas '' , particularly due to the risk of asymptomatic transmission of coronavirus .
He told MPs : `` We should exercise extreme caution in the way we celebrate Christmas . ''
Talks took place on Tuesday and Wednesday involving the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ireland and Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove with updated guidance expected to be published later today .
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon added at her Coronavirus briefing : `` That , in my view , would n't be fair at this stage and would n't be realistic either , and may risk undermining , rather than strengthening , compliance with the overall Covid guidance . ''
She said the Scottish Government would strengthen its guidance to people on `` whether and how they make use of the flexibility '' .
Ms Sturgeon added she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreement on a `` clear and united '' message to the public on this .
Welsh counterpart Mark Drakeford , said : `` I think I will be as clear as I am able to be at this point .
The result of the meetings between the four nations has not yet been published , '' Wales ' First Minister told the Welsh Government briefing .
READ MORE : Sturgeon shamed over indie obsession as Scotland 's drug deaths spiral '' I can not anticipate that statement and it would be unfair to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The top message is as clear as it can be .
Here in Wales over the Christmas period the clear message from the Welsh Government is that only two households should meet .
`` That is how serious things are in Wales .
Whether that is guidance , whether that is regulation , the message is the same .
`` Only two households should get together .
That 's how serious things are .
I ca n't go beyond that until the results of the discussions between the four governments are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Government 's Christmas travel tsar Sir Peter Hendy suggested people should `` stay local '' during the festive period and book public transport early .
DO N'T MISS : Prince Charles ' festive trip 'cancelled ' as Nicola Sturgeon hits out [ REVEAL ] Westminster PLOT to 'modernise ' constitution in bid to HALT IndyRef2 [ INSIGHT ] SNP leader targeted by own supporters over 'covidiot ' MP [ LATEST ] Addressing the House of Commons Transport Select Committee , Sir Peter said : “ One ought to say 'be careful ' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ because that 's the tone of the message from Government , stay local if you can .
`` But the most important part of the message is book public transport early . ''
On potential travel restrictions , he made clear that it was up to the Government as to whether travel should be restricted .
He said : `` As for travelling by car , unless the police block roads , there is no way of stopping it.
” The pressure to cancel the Christmas plans has mounted in recent days by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in controlling the spread of coronavirus .

Nicola Sturgeon: ‘Safest’ place is ‘your own household’ at Christmas
First Minister of Wales Mark Drakeford and First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon have both changed the Christmas advice for their respective nations residents. Ms Sturgeon said governments across the UK did "not intend to take away the flexibility" over Christmas.
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It comes as Prime Minister Boris Johnson has urged people to "exercise extreme caution" and avoid seeing elderly relatives at Christmas as efforts to maintain a UK-wide approach to easing coronavirus rules faltered. The original UK-wide plans would have seen three households allowed to form a festive bubble between December 23 and 27. But in Wales, people are being advised to limit their bubbles to two households, while in Scotland the guidance on what people should do is being strengthened. Addressing MP’s at Prime Minister’s Questions, Mr Johnson stressed it was right to "stress the importance of people taking care this Christmas", particularly due to the risk of asymptomatic transmission of coronavirus. He told MPs: "We should exercise extreme caution in the way we celebrate Christmas."
Scotland and Wales have rejected making COVID changes
Boris Johnson was involved in four nations discussions
Talks took place on Tuesday and Wednesday involving the leaders of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove with updated guidance expected to be published later today. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon added at her Coronavirus briefing: "That, in my view, wouldn't be fair at this stage and wouldn't be realistic either, and may risk undermining, rather than strengthening, compliance with the overall Covid guidance." She said the Scottish Government would strengthen its guidance to people on "whether and how they make use of the flexibility". Ms Sturgeon added she hoped there could be a four nations agreement on a "clear and united" message to the public on this. Welsh counterpart Mark Drakeford, said: "I think I will be as clear as I am able to be at this point. The result of the meetings between the four nations has not yet been published," Wales' First Minister told the Welsh Government briefing. READ MORE: Sturgeon shamed over indie obsession as Scotland's drug deaths spiral
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Nicola Sturgeon delivering a briefing
"I cannot anticipate that statement and it would be unfair to all the other governments of the UK. "The top message is as clear as it can be. Here in Wales over the Christmas period the clear message from the Welsh Government is that only two households should meet. "That is how serious things are in Wales. Whether that is guidance, whether that is regulation, the message is the same. "Only two households should get together. That's how serious things are. I can't go beyond that until the results of the discussions between the four governments are published later today." Mr Drakeford also said Wales would go into full lockdown from December 28th. DON'T MISS:
Prince Charles' festive trip 'cancelled' as Nicola Sturgeon hits out [REVEAL]
Westminster PLOT to 'modernise' constitution in bid to HALT IndyRef2 [INSIGHT]
SNP leader targeted by own supporters over 'covidiot' MP [LATEST]
Mark Drakeford
The Welsh Labour leader said a "sustained rise in coronavirus" meant that the country would have to move into its highest level of restrictions. The UK Government's Christmas travel tsar Sir Peter Hendy suggested people should "stay local" during the festive period and book public transport early. Addressing the House of Commons Transport Select Committee, Sir Peter said: “One ought to say 'be careful'. One ought to say 'stay local' because that's the tone of the message from Government, stay local if you can. "But the most important part of the message is book public transport early." On potential travel restrictions, he made clear that it was up to the Government as to whether travel should be restricted.
Mark Drakeford confirms Wales will 'reopen' following lockdown


thedailyexpress--2020-12-16--French panic exposed: Macron's minister blows top over Brexit as Boris refuses to crumble

Bruno Le Maire , the French Minister for Economic Affairs , raged “ Brexit is madness '' as London and Brussels remain locked in talks in a last-ditch attempt to agree to a trade deal before the transition period deadline expires on December 31 .
The minister used a phrase from the late author John le Carré to brand the UK 's departure from the bloc as a `` political , economic and historical folly '' .
When asked during an interview with France Info TV about the possible impact of a no-deal Brexit , Le Maire bluntly replied : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the British . ''
The French minister also claimed Brexit would only see the country ’ s economy drop by 0.1 percent but warned Britain would experience a much bigger slump .
This is the latest in a string of attacks from Mr Le Maire directed at Britain 's decision to leave the EU .
During the early moments of trade talks between the two sides , he had warned EU member states not to make `` any further concessions '' in negotiations as this would have a devastating impact on unity in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also launched a scathing attack against Mr Johnson and Brexiteers , accusing those of pushing the case for the UK 's exit from the EU of hiding the real impact of it from the public .
London and Brussels have been locked in post-Brexit trade talks since March after the UK left the EU on January 31 , leaving it tied to rules on the Customs Union and Single Market until the transition period deadline ends in just over two weeks .
But over recent weeks , President Macron 's Government has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the issue of fisheries , which remains a major stumbling block in the current trade negotiations .
He has piled pressure on both the UK and EU to agree a deal that would enable continued access to British coastal waters for French fishermen , even threatening to veto any trade deal that does not adhere to these red lines .
But Downing Street has stood firm against these demands , with House of Lords peer and former conservative leader Lord Howard of Rising warning Mr Macron must stop `` acting as if France @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the British fish in British waters '' .
READ MORE : Brexit LIVE : Boris finds solution to major obstacle in talks Asked during an urgent question from Labour 's shadow minister Baroness Hayter of Kentish Town for an update on the trade talks between the two sides , Cabinet Office minister Lord True told peers : `` Discussions are continuing and they are continuing as we are enjoying our session here today . ''
Responding to the minister , Lord Howard said : `` Would the noble Lord the Minister agree there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wonderland permeating our negotiations with the European Union ?
`` Normally when two parties are negotiating a transaction from which both sides benefit , the side with the most to gain customarily makes the concessions and is the party making the greatest effort to achieve a satisfactory conclusion .
`` The EU is making a £90 billion profit from trading with the United Kingdom each year .
DO N'T MISS EU issued stern Brexit warning to keep out of Welsh fisheries [ COMMENT ] 'Imperial ' EU 'struggling to let go ' of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit fisheries warning : EU still refusing to budge as talks continue [ ANALYSIS ] '' Will the noble Lord minister agree that their posturing and treatment of the United Kingdom as a colony is out of place .
`` An example of this is Monsieur Macron acting as if France has a God-given right of access to the British fish in British waters . ''
On Wednesday morning , European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen claimed progress had been made in trade talks but that it was not yet clear if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told the European Parliament : `` I can not tell you whether there will be a deal or not , but I can tell you that there is a path to an agreement now .

Brexit: Nick Robinson grills French MEP on negotiation ‘fears’
Bruno Le Maire, the French Minister for Economic Affairs, raged “Brexit is madness" as London and Brussels remain locked in talks in a last-ditch attempt to agree to a trade deal before the transition period deadline expires on December 31. The minister used a phrase from the late author John le Carré to brand the UK's departure from the bloc as a "political, economic and historical folly". When asked during an interview with France Info TV about the possible impact of a no-deal Brexit, Le Maire bluntly replied: "The big Brexit losers will be the British."
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The French minister also claimed Brexit would only see the country’s economy drop by 0.1 percent but warned Britain would experience a much bigger slump. It's the latest in a string of attacks from Mr Le Maire directed at Britain's decision to leave the EU. During the early moments of trade talks between the two sides, he had warned EU member states not to make "any further concessions" in negotiations as this would have a devastating impact on unity in the bloc. In 2018, he also launched a scathing attack against Mr Johnson and Brexiteers, accusing those of pushing the case for the UK's exit from the EU of hiding the real impact of it from the public.
Brexit news:O Bruno Le Maire has launched a furious attack against the UK
Brexit news: The French minister claimed 'the big Brexit losers will be the British' in a no-deal outcome
London and Brussels have been locked in post-Brexit trade talks since March after the UK left the EU on January 31, leaving it tied to rules on the Customs Union and Single Market until the transition period deadline ends in just over two weeks. But over recent weeks, President Macron's Government has been increasingly vocal in proceedings, particularly around the issue of fisheries, which remains a major stumbling block in the current trade negotiations. He has piled pressure on both the UK and EU to agree a deal that would enable continued access to British coastal waters for French fishermen, even threatening to veto any trade deal that does not adhere to these red lines. But Downing Street has stood firm against these demands, with House of Lords peer and former conservative leader Lord Howard of Rising warning Mr Macron must stop "acting as if France has a God-given right of access to the British fish in British waters". READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: Boris finds solution to major obstacle in talks
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Brexit news: Boris Johnson has refused to cave to demands from the EU
Asked during an urgent question from Labour's shadow minister Baroness Hayter of Kentish Town for an update on the trade talks between the two sides, Cabinet Office minister Lord True told peers: "Discussions are continuing and they are continuing as we are enjoying our session here today." Responding to the minister, Lord Howard said: "Would the noble Lord the Minister agree there is a strong element of Alice in Wonderland permeating our negotiations with the European Union? "Normally when two parties are negotiating a transaction from which both sides benefit, the side with the most to gain customarily makes the concessions and is the party making the greatest effort to achieve a satisfactory conclusion. "The EU is making a £90 billion profit from trading with the United Kingdom each year. DON'T MISS
EU issued stern Brexit warning to keep out of Welsh fisheries [COMMENT]
'Imperial' EU 'struggling to let go' of UK - claims ex-MEP [VIDEO]
Brexit fisheries warning: EU still refusing to budge as talks continue [ANALYSIS]
Brexit news: Emmanuel Macron has opposed Britain's stance on fisheries
Brexit news: Ursula von der Leyen said progress had been made in trade talks
"Will the noble Lord minister agree that their posturing and treatment of the United Kingdom as a colony is out of place. "An example of this is Monsieur Macron acting as if France has a God-given right of access to the British fish in British waters." On Wednesday morning, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen claimed progress had been made in trade talks but that it was not yet clear if an agreement could be struck. She told the European Parliament: "I cannot tell you whether there will be a deal or not, but I can tell you that there is a path to an agreement now.
Brexit news: The UK is edging closer to cutting all ties with the EU


thedailyexpress--2020-12-16--Angela Merkel breaks silence on Brexit to plead with Michel Barnier for a deal with UK

The German Chancellor told the Bundestag that the wrangling over a future relationship pact continues without any major breakthroughs .
She said the European Union would have to wait until the end of the week to establish whether a deal will emerge of out the talks .
Mrs Merkel said : “ A final word about the exit of Great Britain from the European Union : with the consent from all of us , the Commission continues to negotiate in these hours , in these days , again until the weekend to see - or rather until the end of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it this way - to see whether there still can be an agreement .
“ There has been progress but no breakthrough , but I think we will stick to our opinion , a deal would be better than no deal , but we are also prepared for the latter.
” Earlier this morning , European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said there was a “ very narrow ” path to an agreement .
The German eurocrat confirmed both sides had “ found a way forward on most issues ” but a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rows over future common standards and fishing rights .
Mrs von der Leyen told the European Parliament : “ I can not tell you whether there will be a deal or not .
But I can tell you that there is a path to an agreement .
Now , the path may be very narrow , but it is there.
” The Commission boss suggested that the talks could still fail over the difficult issue of post-Brexit fishing quotas .
“ The discussion is still very difficult , ” she told MEPs .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ sovereignty on its own waters .
But we asked for predictability and stability for our fishermen and our fisherwomen .
“ And in all honesty , it sometimes feels that we will not be able to resolve this question .
But we must continue to find to try finding a solution.
” European Council President Charles Michel told MEPs he hoped a deal could emerge in the coming days .
He said : “ We hope the next few days will shed more light on another major issue in terms of our relations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Boris Johnson today said he hoped the EU would “ see sense ” and agree with the offer he has tabled for a post-Brexit trade deal .
He told PMQs : “ Every hope I have is that our friends and partners across the Channel will see sense and do a deal , and all that that takes is for them to understand that the UK has a natural right , like every other country , to want to be able to control its own laws and its own fishing grounds.
” Their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' talks that could drag on until 2026 unless a deal is reached .
In a series of private briefings , the EU Brexit talks chief Michel Barnier told MEPs failure to strike a deal could result in fresh `` sector-by-sector '' talks until 2026 .
Mr Barnier , who is retiring at the end of the year , said his replacement would take a `` different approach '' to future wrangling over a pact with Britain .
He said any talks after a no deal would mirror the EU 's negotiations with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years to produce a trade pact .

Brexit: Fisheries is 'not up for discussion' says Simon Hart
The German Chancellor told the Bundestag that the wrangling over a future relationship pact continues without any major breakthroughs. She said the European Union would have to wait until the end of the week to establish whether a deal will emerge of out the talks. Mrs Merkel said: “A final word about the exit of Great Britain from the European Union: with the consent from all of us, the Commission continues to negotiate in these hours, in these days, again until the weekend to see - or rather until the end of this week, let’s put it this way - to see whether there still can be an agreement.
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“There has been progress but no breakthrough, but I think we will stick to our opinion, a deal would be better than no deal, but we are also prepared for the latter.” Earlier this morning, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said there was a “very narrow” path to an agreement. The German eurocrat confirmed both sides had “found a way forward on most issues” but a breakthrough was being prevented because of ongoing rows over future common standards and fishing rights. Mrs von der Leyen told the European Parliament: “I cannot tell you whether there will be a deal or not. But I can tell you that there is a path to an agreement. Now, the path may be very narrow, but it is there.”
German Chancellor Angela Merkel in the Bundestag
Angela Merkel has said a Brexit deal could emerge by the end of the week
The Commission boss suggested that the talks could still fail over the difficult issue of post-Brexit fishing quotas. “The discussion is still very difficult,” she told MEPs. “We do not question the UK sovereignty on its own waters. But we asked for predictability and stability for our fishermen and our fisherwomen. “And in all honesty, it sometimes feels that we will not be able to resolve this question. But we must continue to find to try finding a solution.”
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European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen
European Council President Charles Michel told MEPs he hoped a deal could emerge in the coming days. He said: “We hope the next few days will shed more light on another major issue in terms of our relations with the United Kingdom.” Prime Minister Boris Johnson today said he hoped the EU would “see sense” and agree with the offer he has tabled for a post-Brexit trade deal. He told PMQs: “Every hope I have is that our friends and partners across the Channel will see sense and do a deal, and all that that takes is for them to understand that the UK has a natural right, like every other country, to want to be able to control its own laws and its own fishing grounds.” MUST READ: French panic exposed: Macron's minister blows top over Brexit
What needs to be done to have a Brexit trade deal in place on January 1
Their interventions came after Brussels threatened "sector-by-sector" talks that could drag on until 2026 unless a deal is reached. In a series of private briefings, the EU Brexit talks chief Michel Barnier told MEPs failure to strike a deal could result in fresh "sector-by-sector" talks until 2026. Mr Barnier, who is retiring at the end of the year, said his replacement would take a "different approach" to future wrangling over a pact with Britain. He said any talks after a no deal would mirror the EU's negotiations with Canada, which took more than five years to produce a trade pact. DON'T MISS
EU issued stern Brexit warning to keep out of Welsh fisheries [VIDEO]
'Imperial' EU 'struggling to let go' of UK - claims ex-MEP [ANALYSIS]
Brexit fisheries warning: EU still refusing to budge as talks continue [INSIGHT]
PMQs: Boris Johnson mocks Ian Blackford over Brexit 'gloom'


thedailyexpress--2020-12-16--Von der Leyen makes 'offensive' claim first Europeans set for vaccine – full WEEK after UK

In a statement today , Ms von der Leyen praised the European Medicines Agency for bringing forward a meeting to discuss the vaccine produced by Pfizer and BioNTech .
Despite Ms von der Leyen ’ s claims , the UK began its own rollout of the Pfizer drug last week after it was given approval by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency ( MHRA ) .
Since the rollout of the drug , the UK ’ s vaccine minister , Nadhim Zahawi revealed close to 140,000 people had now been treated today .
In a statement , Ms von @ @ @ @ @ @ @ counts - we work at full speed to authorise COVID-19 vaccines that are safe & effective .
“ I welcome the EMA bringing forward it 's meeting to discuss the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine , before Christmas .
“ Likely that the first Europeans will be vaccinated before end 2020 !
” Following the EU official ’ s statement , many were quick to point out how the UK had begun its own vaccination programme last week .
Former junior health minister , Edwina Currie said : “ You do realise , ma ’ am @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offensive comment to the citizens of the UK , don ’ t you ?
“ The EU has no monopoly on who are Europeans.
” Another said : “ Correction .
UK citizens are European and some have already been vaccinated with a vaccination programme well underway .
“ You meant to say first EU citizens will be vaccinated before end 2020.
” JUST IN : Coronavirus latest : Covid-19 vaccine rollout will cost Britain £12bn A second said : “ I am not sure if anyone has told you yet but here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last week .
“ And in other news , we are also European !
” The Pfizer drug was the first among the UK ’ s portfolio of potential drugs to be approved .
Prior to the vaccine being developed , the UK Government purchased 40 million doses of the drug .
Ex Brexit MEP fumes over 'bonkers ' EU vaccine approval delay [ Latest ] Is the vaccine safe , can it alter your DNA , is it tested ?
[ Update ] EU drug watchdog to fast-track Covid vaccine with Germany @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also ordered batches of the drug made by Moderna and Oxford University and AstraZeneca .
The UK has 100 million doses of the vaccine from Oxford University which was found to be 90 effective following trials .
The data from the trials has now been passed to MHRA for approval .

Matt Hancock appears emotional over coronavirus vaccine rollout
In a statement today, Ms von der Leyen praised the European Medicines Agency for bringing forward a meeting to discuss the vaccine produced by Pfizer and BioNTech. Despite Ms von der Leyen’s claims, the UK began its own rollout of the Pfizer drug last week after it was given approval by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Since the rollout of the drug, the UK’s vaccine minister, Nadhim Zahawi revealed close to 140,000 people had now been treated today.
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In a statement, Ms von der Leyen said: “Every day counts - we work at full speed to authorise COVID-19 vaccines that are safe & effective. “I welcome the EMA bringing forward it's meeting to discuss the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine, before Christmas. “Likely that the first Europeans will be vaccinated before end 2020!” Following the EU official’s statement, many were quick to point out how the UK had begun its own vaccination programme last week.
Coronavirus vaccine: Ms von der Leyen made the statement
Coronavirus: Some were quick to pick up on her claim
Former junior health minister, Edwina Currie said: “You do realise, ma’am, that that’s a really offensive comment to the citizens of the UK, don’t you? “The EU has no monopoly on who are Europeans.” Another said: “Correction. UK citizens are European and some have already been vaccinated with a vaccination programme well underway. “You meant to say first EU citizens will be vaccinated before end 2020.” JUST IN: Coronavirus latest: Covid-19 vaccine rollout will cost Britain £12bn
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The UK's rollout began last week
Coronavirus: The Pfizer drug was approved in the UK
Coronavirus: The vaccine will be approved before Christmas
The UK has also ordered batches of the drug made by Moderna and Oxford University and AstraZeneca. The UK has 100 million doses of the vaccine from Oxford University which was found to be 90 effective following trials. The data from the trials has now been passed to MHRA for approval.
Coronavirus vaccine policy
However, in trials where the applicants received two full doses, the efficacy was 62 percent. The UK also has deals for vaccines from Janssen, Valneva, Novavax and GlaxoSmithKline and Sanofi.
Coronavirus: The UK has vaccinated 140,000


thedailyexpress--2020-12-16--Ian Blackford and the EU told to 'see sense' as Boris brutally mocks SNP Brexit 'gloom'

Mr Johnson told Prime Minister 's Questions that he hoped the European Union will `` see sense '' on the @ @ @ @ @ The Prime Minister added that the United Kingdom will prosper regardless of whether a trade @ @ @ @ @ European Union .
Mr Blackford said : `` In the last few hours , the @ @ @ @ @ said that the next few days are going to be decisive in the Brexit negotiations @ @ @ @ @ weeks to go , it is a disgrace that businesses have been left with this @ @ @ @ @ threat of food and medicine shortages come the new year .
`` One year ago @ @ @ @ @ Scotland rejected this Prime Minister , rejected this Tory Government and rejected their extreme Brexit @ @ @ @ @ now need to know the price that we will be forced to pay .
READ @ @ @ @ @ EU of Brexit deal plot to take back control

PMQs: Boris Johnson shuts down Blackford for Brexit ‘negativity’
Mr Johnson told Prime Minister's Questions that he hoped the European Union will "see sense" on the UK's Brexit stance. The Prime Minister added that the United Kingdom will prosper regardless of whether a trade deal is secured with the European Union.
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Mr Blackford said: "In the last few hours, the President of the European Commission said that the next few days are going to be decisive in the Brexit negotiations. "With just two weeks to go, it is a disgrace that businesses have been left with this crippling uncertainty and the real threat of food and medicine shortages come the new year. "One year ago at the general election, Scotland rejected this Prime Minister, rejected this Tory Government and rejected their extreme Brexit. "People in Scotland now need to know the price that we will be forced to pay. READ MORE: Andrew Bridgen accuses EU of Brexit deal plot to take back control
Ian Blackford is the leader of the SNP in Westminster
Boris Johnson has been Prime Minister since July 2019
"Ahead of any vote in Parliament will the Prime Minister commit to releasing a detailed economic impact assessment of the cost to the UK for his extreme Brexit plans?" Mr Johnson replied: "There is every opportunity notwithstanding the slight uncharacteristic era of gloom from the honourable gentlemen that our partners across the channel will see sense and do a deal. "All that takes is that the UK has a natural right like every other country to want to be able to control its own laws and fishing grounds. "But whatever happens, in the next few days I know this country will prosper mightily on the terms we agreed, whatever they may be.
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PMQs: Boris Johnson says Christmas plans will ‘proceed’
"He can go forward with confidence into 2021 knowing there are great opportunities for Scotland the rest of the UK." The major sticking points throughout the final phase of the trade talks have been accessing British waters and the EU's insistence on a level playing field. The deadline for a trade agreement between the UK and the EU is rapidly approaching. A new trade agreement will need to be struck before the December 31, 2020 deadline in order to be ratified by the UK and EU Parliament. DON'T MISS Michel Barnier to back down in Brexit bluff on fishing demands [ANALYSIS]
French fishermen prepare for 'warlike' no deal Brexit as tensions boil [VIDEO]
Brexit chief Frost said UK 'will have to inherit EU's trade rules' [INSIGHT]
Boris Johnson backed the UK with or without a trade deal with the EU


thedailyexpress--2020-12-16--EU unity in tatters: Brussels erupts into civil war over eye-watering €1.8tn budget

MEPs are set to vote on a scathing resolution that lambastes the fudged rule of law mechanism drawn up at last week ’ s summit of European leaders .
The European Council gathering decided on a process for tying future handouts from the EU ’ s €1.8 trillion budget and coronavirus recovery fund to good behaviour and the bloc ’ s democratic values .
Leaders used a four-page non-binding declaration to overcome opposition from Poland and Hungary to the financial package amid fears they would be unfairly targeted under the new rules .
MEPs are worried the conclusions drawn up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to ride roughshod over the rule of law mechanism by rogue EU states .
In previous negotiations over the package , the EU Parliament insisted on a much stricter mechanism to block EU funding to countries at risk of breaking the bloc ’ s rules .
In a resolution set to be voted on by MEPs , they branded the fudged proposal “ superfluous ” .
“ The content of the European Council conclusions on the Regulation on a general regime of conditionality for the protection of the Union budget is superfluous , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ The applicability , purpose and scope of the Rule of Law Regulation is clearly defined in the legal text of the said Regulation.
” With the threat of a parliamentary revolt hanging over the package , European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said MEPs had “ understandable concerns ” .
“ I understand there is a fear that the application of the regulation will be delayed and that justice delayed might be justice denied , ” she told the European Parliament .
Under the current proposal , The European Court @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ruling on the legality of the regulation before the Commission can draw up plans to trigger the mechanism .
This has sparked fears of delays and that the process will not be ready in time to govern over Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban , who faces national elections in 2022 .
Mrs von der Leyen added : “ I can assure you the Commission will always act in full autonomy , full respect of the rule of law and full objectivity .
“ And we will start the necessary work of monitoring immediately @ @ @ @ @ @ @ states will also commence without undue delay.
” MUST READ : EU 'cowards ' are running scared of Global Britain in Brexit talks German MEP Manfred Weber , who leads the EPP , said : “ This €1.8 trillion is also linked to an historic achievement to link , for the first time , money to the basic principles we believe in – the rule of law mechanism .
“ We need now an independent Commission that is ready to use the new tool from the first day on .
“ I thank @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the clear commitment in this regard .
This mechanism is not against a country , this mechanism is in favour of Europe.
” Green MEP Sven Giegold said : `` As is so often the case , von der Leyen 's words and deeds do not match .
Rhetorically , she makes herself the defender of the rule of law , but there is little sign of this in her actions .
Guarding the treaties is not a rhetorical exercise .
It is totally unacceptable for the European Commission to bow to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rule of law mechanism .
`` The declaration of the European Council has no legally binding force .
As guardian of the treaties , the Commission has the task of enforcing European law without delay .
The rule of law mechanism has been adopted and must therefore be implemented immediately by the Commission .
The adopted law also does not provide for any further guidelines .
It is therefore unacceptable that the Commission wants to make the application dependent on guidelines that are not even provided for in the Rule of Law Mechanism @ @

Orban ‘open to new proposals’ over EU budget says expert
MEPs are set to vote on a scathing resolution that lambastes the fudged rule of law mechanism drawn up at last week’s summit of European leaders. The European Council gathering decided on a process for tying future handouts from the EU’s €1.8 trillion budget and coronavirus recovery fund to good behaviour and the bloc’s democratic values. Leaders used a four-page non-binding declaration to overcome opposition from Poland and Hungary to the financial package amid fears they would be unfairly targeted under the new rules.
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MEPs are worried the conclusions drawn up by the European Council could be used to ride roughshod over the rule of law mechanism by rogue EU states. In previous negotiations over the package, the EU Parliament insisted on a much stricter mechanism to block EU funding to countries at risk of breaking the bloc’s rules. In a resolution set to be voted on by MEPs, they branded the fudged proposal “superfluous”. “The content of the European Council conclusions on the Regulation on a general regime of conditionality for the protection of the Union budget is superfluous ,” it reads.
EU Council President Charles Michel is under fire from MEPs over rule of law fudge
European Council President Charles Michel speaks at the EU Parliament
The resolution adds: “The applicability, purpose and scope of the Rule of Law Regulation is clearly defined in the legal text of the said Regulation.” With the threat of a parliamentary revolt hanging over the package, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said MEPs had “understandable concerns”. “I understand there is a fear that the application of the regulation will be delayed and that justice delayed might be justice denied,” she told the European Parliament. Under the current proposal, The European Court of Justice would have to make a ruling on the legality of the regulation before the Commission can draw up plans to trigger the mechanism.
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European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen
This has sparked fears of delays and that the process will not be ready in time to govern over Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban, who faces national elections in 2022. Mrs von der Leyen added: “I can assure you the Commission will always act in full autonomy, full respect of the rule of law and full objectivity. “And we will start the necessary work of monitoring immediately. When concerns arise discussions with member states will also commence without undue delay.” MUST READ: EU 'cowards' are running scared of Global Britain in Brexit talks
German MEP Manfred Weber
European Union budget plans criticised by Hungarian officials


thedailyexpress--2020-12-16--PMQs LIVE: Boris condemns Starmer over lockdown demand - 'Wants to CANCEL Christmas!

Across the country Brits have been warned throughout the pandemic not to meet up in groups of more than six .
To allow families to get together and celebrate the festive period the restrictions will be relaxed on December 23 .
Up to three households will be allowed to meet for five days and form a `` super-bubble '' .
With coronavirus cases starting to surge across the country again , the Prime Minister has been urged to now scrap the plans .
The Labour leader 's demand for an emergency meeting of COBRA comes as London Mayor Sadiq Khan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also said a rethink might be needed .
This morning Cabinet Minister Michael Gove held a phone call with members of the Scottish , Welsh , and Northern Ireland devolved administrations to talks about the rules .
No10 has ruled out changing its mind on the legislation allowing three families to meet over Christmas .
In PMQs Mr Johnson accused Sir Keir of wanting to `` cancel Christmas '' .
FOLLOW BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES FROM EXPRESS.CO.UK Lindsay Hoyle has suspended the House following the end of PMQs .
The three-minute break allows @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chamber safely in accordance with coronavirus guidelines .
12.38pm update : PMQs is still going on John Bercow was well known for letting PMQs run well beyond the 12.30 cut off time .
Speaker Lindsay Hoyle promised he be more strict in sticking to the timetable when he took over .
But almost 10 minutes after the official finish time , questions are still coming .
12.26pm update : A plea for more funding for pubs Labour MP Liz Twist says hospitality has been `` devastated '' in her constituency and adds pubs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
She 's asked for more funding to those businesses in need .
The Prime Minister says he is committed to doing `` everything he can '' to help the hospitality sector .
12.24pm update : Questions to Mr Johnson are now coming from the SNP The SNP 's Westminster chief Ian Blackford has turned his attention to Brexit .
He says the next few days would be decisive in Brexit negotiations .
He adds : `` With just two weeks to go it is a disgrace that businesses and people have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ One year ago , at the general election , Scotland rejected this Prime Minister , rejected this Tory Government and rejected an extreme Brexit . ''
He asks the PM to release a detailed economic breakdown of his `` extreme Tory Brexit plan '' .
Mr Johnson responds : `` There is every opportunity our friends and partners across the Channel will see sense and do a deal .
`` All that takes is for them to understand we have a natural right like every other country that wants to control its laws @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I know this country will prosper mightily . ''
12.22pm update : Boris Johnson gets into the Christmas spirit Making the most of the festive season , the Prime Minister has delivered a prepared attack on the Labour leader .
Reiterating his belief the Labour leader has failed to offer an alternative strategy on how to handle Covid , he says : `` He ca n't attack the Government if he ca n't come up with a plan of his own .
`` In the words of the song , all I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' The final PMQs of 2020 is not failing to disappoint .
The clashes between Mr Johnson and Sir Keir have been lively and furious .
The Prime Minister has lost his patience with his opposite number and accused him of wanting to cancel Christmas .
He says : `` I wish he had the guts to say what he wants to do , to cancel the plans people have made , to cancel Christmas .
I think that 's what he 's driving at .
`` I can tell him , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreement across all the UK Government , including members of all parties , that we should proceed with the existing regulations .
`` We do n't want to criminalise people 's long-made plans . ''
Sir Keir Starmer turns to Dominic Cummings , who it has become front-page news again in the last 24 hours after it emerged he received a payrise despite the ongoing economic chaos .
Boris Johnson dodged the question and attacked the labour leader , accusing him of wanting to `` lock the whole country down '' .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ golfer '' with no other plan .
In response , the Labour leader says : `` You could script that from October and November when he was saying the last thing the country need was a lockdown .
Two weeks later he put it on the table and voted for it .
Ridiculous ! ''
12.15pm update : Starmer says the Government has failed The Labour leader says Mr Johnson must accept his 3 tier system for England is failing to work .
He adds the reason his party abstained on supporting the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of confidence it would work .
Sir Keir says : In three-out-of-four Tier 2 areas , infections are going up .
In half of Tier 3 areas , infections are going up .
`` Does the Prime Minister not recognise that his latest plan has once again failed to control the virus , protect the NHS and the economy ? ''
The Prime Minister has hit back again , telling his opposite number to stop criticisng the UK .
He says : `` I think his time would be better spent supporting these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ encouraging people to get a test , encouraging people to get a vaccine rather than continually attacking what the NHS and what the Government is trying to do . ''
12.12pm update : Labour 's flip-flopping on coronavirus gives Mr Johnson space to defend himself The Prime Minister has brushed off Sir Keir 's criticisms .
He says the Labour leader would be taken more seriously if he had backed the Prime Minister is tacking the pandemic or offered an alternative strategy .
Mr Johnson says : `` I would take his criticisms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been able to decide last week , or even the week before , whether he supported the approach we were taking or opposed it . ''
He 's said the state of the coronavirus crisis is down to Mr Johnson 's handing of it .
He says : `` This is n't bad luck , it 's not inevitable , it 's the result of the Prime Minister 's bad choices .
`` Why does he think Britain - the sixth-richest country in the world with all its scientists and the amazing NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the highest numbers of Covid deaths in Europe ? ''
12.07pm update : Starmer starts with a review of Covid through 2020 Sir Keir Starmer begins by accusing the Prime Minister of being slow to react to the coronavirus crisis .
He says : `` Does the PM now accept that his slowness to respond led to more deaths , a longer lockdown and deeper economic impact ? ''
Boris Johnson responds saying at all times the UK were following scientific advice .
The Prime Minister says : `` I think what people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of goodwill to all men , is some support for what the Government is doing . ''
Tory MP Michael Fabricant says his constituents have had `` a torrid year '' .
He says Britons had a `` very small break '' over Christmas and urged people to use common sense .
He adds : `` Do n't go hugging granny . ''
But he tells the PM `` it would not be helpful if some smarmy lawyer '' - a dig at Keir Starmer - argued for a change in rules .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson says Mr Fabricant is right `` in many ways '' .
He urges Britons to `` exercise extreme caution '' .
He reminds the House that one-in-three of those infected with COVID were asymptomatic .
Boris Johnson begins by wishing MPs - as well as UK armed forces across the world and health workers - a merry Christmas .
12.01pm update : Boris Johnson is in the Chamber The Prime Minister is currently lingering behind the Speaker 's chair as he waits for the last debate in the Commons to finish before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carefully going over his folder doing last-minute preperation .
Questions to the Government on Wales are being asked in the House of Commons right now .
The session will end just before 12pm at which point there will be a three-minute break to allow MPs to enter and leave the Chamber if a safe way given the pandemic .
With pressure mounting on the Government to scrap its eased coronavirus restrictions for the Christmas period , you can bet that will be top of Sir Keir 's questions .
In a letter to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leader said : `` I understand that people want to spend time with their families after this awful year , but the situation has clearly taken a turn for the worse since the decision about Christmas was taken .
It serves no-one for politicians to ignore this fact .
“ It is my view that you should now convene COBRA in the next 24 hours to review whether the current relaxation is appropriate given the rising number of cases.
” 11.00am update : One hour to go There is just one hour left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and it is set to be a good one .
With the fears of coronavirus surging across the UK again , and Brexit talks on the brink of a deal , there is plenty for the Prime Minister and Sir Keir Starmer to get stuck in with .

PMQs: Johnson clashes with Starmer over pandemic plans
Mr Johnson is coming under increasing pressure to scrap the relaxation of coronavirus laws between December 23 and 27. Yesterday Sir Keir demanded the Prime Minister call an emergency COBRA meeting to look into the impact of the softened measures.
Across the country Brits have been warned throughout the pandemic not to meet up in groups of more than six. To allow families to get together and celebrate the festive period the restrictions will be relaxed on December 23. Up to three households will be allowed to meet for five days and form a "super-bubble". With coronavirus cases starting to surge across the country again, the Prime Minister has been urged to now scrap the plans. The Labour leader's demand for an emergency meeting of COBRA comes as London Mayor Sadiq Khan and Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has also said a rethink might be needed. This morning Cabinet Minister Michael Gove held a phone call with members of the Scottish, Welsh, and Northern Ireland devolved administrations to talks about the rules. No10 has ruled out changing its mind on the legislation allowing three families to meet over Christmas. In PMQs Mr Johnson accused Sir Keir of wanting to "cancel Christmas". FOLLOW BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES FROM EXPRESS.CO.UK
Boris Johnson and Keir Starmer clash on coronavirus restrictions
12.41pm update: House of Commons suspended Lindsay Hoyle has suspended the House following the end of PMQs. The three-minute break allows for MPs to enter and leave the Chamber safely in accordance with coronavirus guidelines. This live blog is now closed. 12.38pm update: PMQs is still going on John Bercow was well known for letting PMQs run well beyond the 12.30 cut off time. Speaker Lindsay Hoyle promised he be more strict in sticking to the timetable when he took over. But almost 10 minutes after the official finish time, questions are still coming. 12.26pm update: A plea for more funding for pubs Labour MP Liz Twist says hospitality has been "devastated" in her constituency and adds pubs are the "heart of the community". She's asked for more funding to those businesses in need. The Prime Minister says he is committed to doing "everything he can" to help the hospitality sector. 12.24pm update: Questions to Mr Johnson are now coming from the SNP The SNP's Westminster chief Ian Blackford has turned his attention to Brexit. He says the next few days would be decisive in Brexit negotiations. He adds: "With just two weeks to go it is a disgrace that businesses and people have been left with crippling uncertainty. "One year ago, at the general election, Scotland rejected this Prime Minister, rejected this Tory Government and rejected an extreme Brexit." He asks the PM to release a detailed economic breakdown of his "extreme Tory Brexit plan". Mr Johnson responds: "There is every opportunity our friends and partners across the Channel will see sense and do a deal. "All that takes is for them to understand we have a natural right like every other country that wants to control its laws and fishing grounds. "Whatever happens, I know this country will prosper mightily."
Ian Blackford accused the Prime Minister of promoting an 'extreme Tory Brexit'
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12.22pm update: Boris Johnson gets into the Christmas spirit Making the most of the festive season, the Prime Minister has delivered a prepared attack on the Labour leader. Reiterating his belief the Labour leader has failed to offer an alternative strategy on how to handle Covid, he says: "He can't attack the Government if he can't come up with a plan of his own. "In the words of the song, all I want for Christmas is a view!" 12.20pm update: Prime Minister lashes out at Starmer The final PMQs of 2020 is not failing to disappoint. The clashes between Mr Johnson and Sir Keir have been lively and furious. The Prime Minister has lost his patience with his opposite number and accused him of wanting to cancel Christmas. He says: "I wish he had the guts to say what he wants to do, to cancel the plans people have made, to cancel Christmas. I think that's what he's driving at. "I can tell him, as of today, there is a unanimous agreement across all the UK Government, including members of all parties, that we should proceed with the existing regulations. "We don't want to criminalise people's long-made plans."
Boris Johnson accused Starmer of wanting to cancel Christmas
12.17pm update: Dominic Cummings one again front-page news Sir Keir Starmer turns to Dominic Cummings, who it has become front-page news again in the last 24 hours after it emerged he received a payrise despite the ongoing economic chaos. Boris Johnson dodged the question and attacked the labour leader, accusing him of wanting to "lock the whole country down". He said Sir Keir was a "one-club golfer" with no other plan. In response, the Labour leader says: "You could script that from October and November when he was saying the last thing the country need was a lockdown. Two weeks later he put it on the table and voted for it. Ridiculous!" 12.15pm update: Starmer says the Government has failed The Labour leader says Mr Johnson must accept his 3 tier system for England is failing to work. He adds the reason his party abstained on supporting the tiers is because they had a lack of confidence it would work. Sir Keir says: In three-out-of-four Tier 2 areas, infections are going up. In half of Tier 3 areas, infections are going up. "Does the Prime Minister not recognise that his latest plan has once again failed to control the virus, protect the NHS and the economy?" The Prime Minister has hit back again, telling his opposite number to stop criticisng the UK. He says: "I think his time would be better spent supporting these wonderful initiatives, supporting community testing, encouraging people to get a test, encouraging people to get a vaccine rather than continually attacking what the NHS and what the Government is trying to do."
Keir Starmer has accused the Prime Minister's plan of 'failing'
12.12pm update: Labour's flip-flopping on coronavirus gives Mr Johnson space to defend himself The Prime Minister has brushed off Sir Keir's criticisms. He says the Labour leader would be taken more seriously if he had backed the Prime Minister is tacking the pandemic or offered an alternative strategy. Mr Johnson says: "I would take his criticisms a little more seriously if he had been able to decide last week, or even the week before, whether he supported the approach we were taking or opposed it." 12.09pm update: Starmer attacks Boris Johnson's record Sir Keir Starmer isn't happy with the Prime Minister's answer. He's said the state of the coronavirus crisis is down to Mr Johnson's handing of it. He says: "This isn't bad luck, it's not inevitable, it's the result of the Prime Minister's bad choices. "Why does he think Britain - the sixth-richest country in the world with all its scientists and the amazing NHS - ends the year with one of the highest numbers of Covid deaths in Europe?" 12.07pm update: Starmer starts with a review of Covid through 2020 Sir Keir Starmer begins by accusing the Prime Minister of being slow to react to the coronavirus crisis. He says: "Does the PM now accept that his slowness to respond led to more deaths, a longer lockdown and deeper economic impact?" Boris Johnson responds saying at all times the UK were following scientific advice. The Prime Minister says: "I think what people want to hear, in this season of goodwill to all men, is some support for what the Government is doing."
Boris Johnson has said spikes of coronavirus are happening across Europe
12.04pm update: Michael Fabricant launches attack on "smarmy lawyer" Starmer Tory MP Michael Fabricant says his constituents have had "a torrid year".
He says Britons had a "very small break" over Christmas and urged people to use common sense.
He adds: "Don't go hugging granny."
But he tells the PM "it would not be helpful if some smarmy lawyer" - a dig at Keir Starmer - argued for a change in rules.
He is then cut off. Mr Johnson says Mr Fabricant is right "in many ways".
He urges Britons to "exercise extreme caution".
He reminds the House that one-in-three of those infected with COVID were asymptomatic. 12.03pm update: A Christmas message Boris Johnson begins by wishing MPs - as well as UK armed forces across the world and health workers - a merry Christmas. 12.01pm update: Boris Johnson is in the Chamber The Prime Minister is currently lingering behind the Speaker's chair as he waits for the last debate in the Commons to finish before the takes his seat. He's carefully going over his folder doing last-minute preperation.
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thedailyexpress--2020-12-16--Leave Boris at home! Brexit deal possible 'but ONLY if Johnson avoids another EU gaffe'

Bertie Ahern , who in the 1990s worked closely with then-British Prime Minister Tony Blair to achieve the Good Friday peace accord for Northern Ireland , said a Brexit deal is possible if the UK and European Union exchange concessions .
These would involve the EU backing down over its fishing demands around access to British coastal waters , and London pledging to align with Brussels ’ standards in a move that would n't undercut the trading bloc .
But he warned a repeat of the gaffes made during Boris Johnson 's recent dinner with Ursula Von der Leyen could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK and EU negotiating teams could succeed “ as long as Boris doesn ’ t have any more dinners and makes a mess of it again.
” Mr Ahern was making reference to a dinner which Mr Johnson held with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels last Wednesday .
After three hours of talks , the two leaders failed to break the stalemate in trade negotiations , with both sides increasingly further apart on a number of issues .
EU sources indicated Mr Johnson misread the room and upset @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's Angela Merkel and France 's Emmanuel Macron .
Mr Ahern said the Prime Minister 's “ bluster ” does not reflect well in Brussels but has backed the UK to stick by their principles on fishing .
He told Politico : “ They ’ re being asked to stick to a system that dates to 1973 .
“ Denmark , Holland and France catch about 550,000 tons of fish in U.K. waters , and the UK catch only 94,000 tons in EU waters .
“ It seems to me that if , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the British will get the balance on the fisheries against the EU ’ s level playing field .
READ MORE : Deal possible in FIVE days as UK says EU 'chickens ' on brink of caving Mr Ahern , who was Ireland 's leader between 1997 and 2008 , added : “ If you and I were members of a golf club and we paid our fee for the year , and then we went out every Saturday morning to find somebody else who pays nothing and is not a member ahead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ person would reject that .
“ That ’ s effectively what the British are looking for.
” Mr Ahern also believes any unresolved issues could continue to be negotiated beyond this year - much like the Good Friday Agreement , which required sever years of follow-up talks .
But he warned it was a `` huge mistake '' not to extend the Brexit transition period beyond December 31 , particularly in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic .
DO N'T MISS EU fear Brexit repeat as Poles warn : 'We ’ re headed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] Ex-Aussie PM sparks furious backlash over Brexit deal meddling [ VIDEO ] Fishing fury : How bust-up sparked WAR fears amid Brexit talk chaos [ ANALYSIS ] The former Prime minister concluded : “ It was a huge mistake , particularly when the pandemic hit , to insist that the Brexit transition period ends on the 31st of December .
`` Trade deals can take years to conclude .
“ Trying to do this in a single year in the middle of a global pandemic was never a good idea.
” The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in trade talks durinf meetings in Brussels in a last-ditch attemp to get a deal between the two sides over the line before the transition period deadline expires on December 31 .
Following their meeting in the Belgian capital last week , Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen had said the future direction of trade talks would be decided by the end of last weekend and on Sunday , both said negotiations would continue .
On Wednesday morning , the EU chief could not say if there would be a trade deal @ @ @

Brexit: BBC’s Nick Watt on Conservative ‘buzz’ over 'possible' deal
Bertie Ahern, who in the 1990s worked closely with then-British Prime Minister Tony Blair to achieve the Good Friday peace accord for Northern Ireland, said a Brexit deal is possible if the UK and European Union exchange concessions. These would involve the EU backing down over its fishing demands around access to British coastal waters, and London pledging to align with Brussels’ standards in a move that wouldn't undercut the trading bloc. But he warned a repeat of the gaffes made during Boris Johnson's recent dinner with Ursula Von der Leyen could have a disastrous effect.
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He predicted the UK and EU negotiating teams could succeed “as long as Boris doesn’t have any more dinners and makes a mess of it again.” Mr Ahern was making reference to a dinner which Mr Johnson held with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels last Wednesday. After three hours of talks, the two leaders failed to break the stalemate in trade negotiations, with both sides increasingly further apart on a number of issues. EU sources indicated Mr Johnson misread the room and upset EU chiefs by requesting discussions with Germany's Angela Merkel and France's Emmanuel Macron.
Brexit news: Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen held talks over dinner in Brussels last week
Brexit news: The talks between Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen failed to break the stalemate
Mr Ahern said the Prime Minister's “bluster” does not reflect well in Brussels but has backed the UK to stick by their principles on fishing. He told Politico: “They’re being asked to stick to a system that dates to 1973. “Denmark, Holland and France catch about 550,000 tons of fish in U.K. waters, and the UK catch only 94,000 tons in EU waters. “It seems to me that if, with a bit of give and take, the British will get the balance on the fisheries against the EU’s level playing field. READ MORE: Deal possible in FIVE days as UK says EU 'chickens' on brink of caving
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Brexit news: Bertie Ahern sent a warning to Boris Johnson
Mr Ahern, who was Ireland's leader between 1997 and 2008, added: “If you and I were members of a golf club and we paid our fee for the year, and then we went out every Saturday morning to find somebody else who pays nothing and is not a member ahead of us getting preference, any reasonable person would reject that. “That’s effectively what the British are looking for.” Mr Ahern also believes any unresolved issues could continue to be negotiated beyond this year - much like the Good Friday Agreement, which required sever years of follow-up talks. But he warned it was a "huge mistake" not to extend the Brexit transition period beyond December 31, particularly in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. DON'T MISS
EU fear Brexit repeat as Poles warn: 'We’re headed in UK's direction' [COMMENT]
Ex-Aussie PM sparks furious backlash over Brexit deal meddling [VIDEO]
Fishing fury: How bust-up sparked WAR fears amid Brexit talk chaos [ANALYSIS]
Brexit news: Bertie Ahern believes the UK and EU can agree a trade deal
Brexit news: Boris Johnson has been told by Bertie Ahern talks on unresolved trade issues could resume next year
The former Prime minister concluded: “It was a huge mistake, particularly when the pandemic hit, to insist that the Brexit transition period ends on the 31st of December. "Trade deals can take years to conclude. “Trying to do this in a single year in the middle of a global pandemic was never a good idea.” The UK and EU continue to be locked in trade talks durinf meetings in Brussels in a last-ditch attemp to get a deal between the two sides over the line before the transition period deadline expires on December 31. Following their meeting in the Belgian capital last week, Mr Johnson and Ms von der Leyen had said the future direction of trade talks would be decided by the end of last weekend and on Sunday, both said negotiations would continue. On Wednesday morning, the EU chief could not say if there would be a trade deal with Britain.
Brexit news: The UK could be edging closer to cutting all ties with the EU


thedailyexpress--2020-12-16--'Disrespectful!' UK fury as Boris mocked in brutal German TV show - 'Boris the buffoon!'

A fake trailer , titled The Clown , aired on network NDR show Extra3 and took aim at the Prime Minister ’ s handling of Brexit negotiations .
The parody , which is based on Netflix series The Crown , follows Boris Johnson and the UK journey through the ongoing Brexit negotiations .
A voiceover can be heard saying in the trailer : “ Shrewd Boris Johnson becomes prime minister with circus acts and sleight of hand .
“ But his funniest trick yet is Brexit .
He cons Brits into believing fake numbers .
“ And that ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the EU.
” Speaking in German , a Boris Johnson mock-up puppet is then heard saying : “ I can ’ t do anything except but grin stupidly .
And harvest apples .
And I always forget my lines.
” The trailer promises storylines that `` spiral into chaos for 23 seasons '' , adding : “ The clown gets tangled up in silly adventures .
“ The negotiations with the EU seem endless .
“ The huge budget bears no relation to the result.
” A Whitehall source close to the negotiations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ We are looking to secure a trade deal which respects UK sovereignty and we are working proactively with the EU on this .
READ MORE : Deal possible in FIVE days as UK says EU 'chickens ' on brink of caving “ Any disrespectful distractions are not welcome . ''
For months , the post-Brexit negotiations have been stuck at an impasse on the issues of fishing rights and the `` level playing field '' measures to prevent unfair competition as well as state aid .
The Prime Minister said he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remaining areas of disagreement and re-emphasised the desire to strike a deal as talks continue in Brussels this week .
It comes as President of the EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen said there was a `` path '' to an agreement between the UK and European Union on a trade deal but arguments over fishing rights continue .
DO N'T MISS : Michael Gove hits out at SNP over £200m Brexit cash row [ LATEST ] Cornwall Council shamed for 'wasting ' £80,000 on Brussels office [ INSIGHT ] Brexit no-deal : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outcome ' [ REVEAL ] The European Commission president conceded the route to an agreement was `` very narrow '' and resolution of the difficulties over fishing may prove impossible .
Ms Ursula von der Leyen said this morning : `` As things stand , I can not tell you whether there will be a deal or not .
“ But I can tell you that there is a path to an agreement now .
The path may be very narrow but it is there . ''
`` We have found a way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still remain outstanding : the level playing field and fisheries .

Boris Johnson mocked over Brexit in ‘The Clown’ parody on German TV
A fake trailer, titled The Clown, aired on network NDR show Extra3 and took aim at the Prime Minister’s handling of Brexit negotiations. The parody, which is based on Netflix series The Crown, follows Boris Johnson and the UK journey through the ongoing Brexit negotiations.
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A voiceover can be heard saying in the trailer: “Shrewd Boris Johnson becomes prime minister with circus acts and sleight of hand. “But his funniest trick yet is Brexit. He cons Brits into believing fake numbers. “And that’s how Mr Johnson leads them out of the EU.” Speaking in German, a Boris Johnson mock-up puppet is then heard saying: “I can’t do anything except but grin stupidly. And harvest apples. And I always forget my lines.”
A German TV Channel has mocked Boris Johnson
The UK Government have stressed the importance of the talks
The trailer promises storylines that "spiral into chaos for 23 seasons", adding: “The clown gets tangled up in silly adventures. “The negotiations with the EU seem endless. “The huge budget bears no relation to the result.” A Whitehall source close to the negotiations hit back at the parody, saying: “We are looking to secure a trade deal which respects UK sovereignty and we are working proactively with the EU on this. READ MORE: Deal possible in FIVE days as UK says EU 'chickens' on brink of caving
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The Parody slates Boris Johnson
“Any disrespectful distractions are not welcome." For months, the post-Brexit negotiations have been stuck at an impasse on the issues of fishing rights and the "level playing field" measures to prevent unfair competition as well as state aid. The Prime Minister said he was committed to continuing negotiations on the remaining areas of disagreement and re-emphasised the desire to strike a deal as talks continue in Brussels this week. It comes as President of the EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen said there was a "path" to an agreement between the UK and European Union on a trade deal but arguments over fishing rights continue. DON'T MISS:
Michael Gove hits out at SNP over £200m Brexit cash row [LATEST]
Cornwall Council shamed for 'wasting' £80,000 on Brussels office [INSIGHT]
Brexit no-deal: Boris Johnson says no-deal is 'most likely outcome' [REVEAL]
The Parody is based on TV series, The Crown
The European Commission president conceded the route to an agreement was "very narrow" and resolution of the difficulties over fishing may prove impossible. Ms Ursula von der Leyen said this morning: "As things stand, I cannot tell you whether there will be a deal or not. “But I can tell you that there is a path to an agreement now. The path may be very narrow but it is there." "We have found a way forward on most issues but two issues still remain outstanding: the level playing field and fisheries.
Trade talks are ongoing currently


thedailyexpress--2020-12-17--EU on the rocks: Ireland’s raw deal on fish fuelling resentment as Irexit support surging

Ray Bassett was speaking after Minister for Agriculture , Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue voiced concerns about the country 's future fishing quotas , with the prospect of EU boats no longer being able to fish in UK waters in the event of a no deal outcome .
In such circumstances , fishermen from France , Belgium , Germany , Denmark and Norway would likely head for the seas around Ireland instead , jeopardising the livelihoods of local fishing businesses .
Mr Bassett , Ireland 's former ambassador to Canada , Jamaica and the Bahamas , told Express.co.uk : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talks has focused interest in Ireland on how badly the country is treated under the current Common Fisheries Policy .
`` This is very uncomfortable for the Government and the pro EU lobby .
`` Other countries catch hundreds of millions of euros worth of fish in Irish waters and subsequent processing can more than double the value of that catch .
`` The possibility , or more likely the probability that Ireland 's meagre fish ration in its own waters may even be further reduced to cater for French , Spanish and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is causing consternation . ''
Such circumstances would trigger demands in Ireland for the Common Fisheries Policy to be scrapped , putting Taoiseach Micheal Martin in an awkward position politically .
Mr Bassett added : `` It again shows how short sighted Ireland 's policy was of throwing its lot in with the EU during Brexit .
READ MORE : Ireland braces for influx of EU fishing vessels plundering waters '' It also comes at a time when the Department of Finance in Dublin has confirmed that Ireland 's net contribution to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , up from €1bn last year , and this does not take into account Ireland 's pending large contribution to the EU COVID Fund . ''
Fishing was far from the only issue where Ireland appeared to be losing out , Mr Barrett said .
He explained : `` The continued delay in starting a COVID vaccine programme is also reflecting badly on the country 's relationship with the EU .
DO N'T MISS : Britain handed license to monitor UK waters to French firm [ INSIGHT ] No deal Brexit : Boris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tomorrow [ ANALYSIS ] EU are you watching ?
Britain signs trade agreement with US [ VIDEO ] '' Ireland , unlike France or Germany , made no purchases of vaccines itself , relying entirely on Brussels to provide supplies .
`` This has led to the country getting a very small initial allocation .
`` There is growing disenchantment with Brussels in the Irish public and the Irish Freedom Party which campaigns for an Irexit is reporting a strong surge in new memberships .
`` The next few years will be very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Brussels .
`` The balance of advantage in Ireland 's membership of the EU is certainly shifting in a negative direction . ''
Mr McConalogue said : `` It 's really important as we come towards what we hope will be a positive outcome that there is recognition there from the British government that , in return , there are many positive aspects of being part of the free trade market , that that needs to work both ways , in particular in relation to reciprocal access to waters and also maintenance @ @ @ @

Brexit: No deal would cause 'disruption' says Micheál Martin
Ray Bassett was speaking after Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue voiced concerns about the country's future fishing quotas, with the prospect of EU boats no longer being able to fish in UK waters in the event of a no deal outcome. In such circumstances, fishermen from France, Belgium, Germany, Denmark and Norway would likely head for the seas around Ireland instead, jeopardising the livelihoods of local fishing businesses.
Trending
Mr Bassett, Ireland's former ambassador to Canada, Jamaica and the Bahamas, told Express.co.uk: "The fisheries issue in the Brexit talks has focused interest in Ireland on how badly the country is treated under the current Common Fisheries Policy. "This is very uncomfortable for the Government and the pro EU lobby. "Other countries catch hundreds of millions of euros worth of fish in Irish waters and subsequent processing can more than double the value of that catch.
The situation is posing political difficulties for Taoiseach Micheal Martin
Fishing rights are central to Brexit
"The possibility, or more likely the probability that Ireland's meagre fish ration in its own waters may even be further reduced to cater for French, Spanish and Dutch fishing interests displaced by Brexit, is causing consternation." Such circumstances would trigger demands in Ireland for the Common Fisheries Policy to be scrapped, putting Taoiseach Micheal Martin in an awkward position politically. Mr Bassett added: "It again shows how short sighted Ireland's policy was of throwing its lot in with the EU during Brexit. READ MORE: Ireland braces for influx of EU fishing vessels plundering waters
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Boris Johnson has been vocal on the issue of fishing access
"It also comes at a time when the Department of Finance in Dublin has confirmed that Ireland's net contribution to the EU budget in 2020 will be €1.5bn, up from €1bn last year, and this does not take into account Ireland's pending large contribution to the EU COVID Fund." Fishing was far from the only issue where Ireland appeared to be losing out, Mr Barrett said. He explained: "The continued delay in starting a COVID vaccine programme is also reflecting badly on the country's relationship with the EU. DON'T MISS:
Britain handed license to monitor UK waters to French firm [INSIGHT]
No deal Brexit: Boris Johnson to send MPs home for Christmas tomorrow [ANALYSIS]
EU are you watching? Britain signs trade agreement with US [VIDEO]
Leo Varadkar, Mr Martin's predecessor, is a staunch europhile
Ursula von der Leyen, European Commission President
"Ireland, unlike France or Germany, made no purchases of vaccines itself, relying entirely on Brussels to provide supplies. "This has led to the country getting a very small initial allocation. "There is growing disenchantment with Brussels in the Irish public and the Irish Freedom Party which campaigns for an Irexit is reporting a strong surge in new memberships.
EU countries which rely on UK waters
"The next few years will be very interesting in Irish politics and its relationship with Brussels. "The balance of advantage in Ireland's membership of the EU is certainly shifting in a negative direction." Mr McConalogue said: "It's really important as we come towards what we hope will be a positive outcome that there is recognition there from the British government that, in return, there are many positive aspects of being part of the free trade market, that that needs to work both ways, in particular in relation to reciprocal access to waters and also maintenance of quota share.
Ireland is also losing out when it came to vaccine access, said Mr Bassett


thedailyexpress--2020-12-17--EU are you watching? Britain signs trade agreement with US – on path to secure major deal

Jesse Norman , financial secretary to the Treasury , said the pact is evidence of the strong bond shared by London and Washington .
The signing comes as rumours swirl about a possible trade deal being secured by the UK and the EU .
Mr Norman tweeted : `` Delighted to sign the UK-US Customs Assistance Agreement this afternoon with  @ USAmbUK .
`` Testimony to three years of hard work by  @ HMRCgovuk and US Customs and Homeland Security officials .
`` And 200+ years of the UK-US special relationship . ''
Mr Norman posted a snap @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ambassador to the UK , Woody Johnson .
Both men , wearing masks , posed in front of the US and UK flags .
Ambassador Johnson tweeted a photo of the pair signing the deal .
He said : `` Another US-UK post-Brexit deal is done !
READ MORE : Britain handed license to monitor UK waters to French firm '' Today I signed an agreement to ensure our important crime-fighting will continue uninterrupted . ''
The Customs Mutual Assistance Agreement ( CMAA ) is aimed at enhancing bilateral efforts to secure and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be enforced by customs administrations on both sides of the pond .
The agreement provides the legal framework for the exchange of information and evidence to assist the two nations in the enforcement of customs laws , including duty evasion , trafficking , proliferation , money laundering and terrorism-related activities .
DO N'T MISS Brexit news : Brexiteer fury as EU terrified of Global Britain [ ANALYSIS ] SNP MP suspended from Commons after 'outrageous ' Brexit debate row [ INSIGHT ] No deal Brexit : Boris Johnson to send MPs home for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ paid tribute to the joint efforts of the UK and the US to stop the flow of weapons and drugs between the two countries .
He said the deal would mean both sides would benefit from the sharing of information after the Brexit transition period ends .
He said : “ Every single day , the U.S. and the UK work side by side to stop criminals trafficking illegal goods across the Atlantic - from guns , to drugs , to illegal wildlife products and even counterfeit medicine .
`` This Customs Mutual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our investigators can keep sharing information to stop criminals in their tracks and keep people in both our countries safe .
”

Brexit: UK-US trade deal ‘might be the first’ predicts expert
Jesse Norman, financial secretary to the Treasury, said the pact is evidence of the strong bond shared by London and Washington. The signing comes as rumours swirl about a possible trade deal being secured by the UK and the EU.
Trending
Mr Norman tweeted: "Delighted to sign the UK-US Customs Assistance Agreement this afternoon with @USAmbUK. "Testimony to three years of hard work by @HMRCgovuk and US Customs and Homeland Security officials. "And 200+ years of the UK-US special relationship."
UK and US sign customs agreement
Mr Nelson and Ambassador Johnson signed the deal in London on Wednesday
Mr Norman posted a snap of himself standing next to the US Ambassador to the UK, Woody Johnson. Both men, wearing masks, posed in front of the US and UK flags. Ambassador Johnson tweeted a photo of the pair signing the deal. He said: "Another US-UK post-Brexit deal is done! READ MORE: Britain handed license to monitor UK waters to French firm
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The US Ambassador to the UK Woody Johnson
Ambassador Johnson with President Trump in London
Liz Truss met with Ambassador Johnson on Tuesday to discuss a UK-US deal
Ambassador Johnson paid tribute to the joint efforts of the UK and the US to stop the flow of weapons and drugs between the two countries. He said the deal would mean both sides would benefit from the sharing of information after the Brexit transition period ends. He said: “Every single day, the U.S. and the UK work side by side to stop criminals trafficking illegal goods across the Atlantic - from guns, to drugs, to illegal wildlife products and even counterfeit medicine. "This Customs Mutual Assistance Agreement means that after Brexit, our investigators can keep sharing information to stop criminals in their tracks and keep people in both our countries safe.”
Trump trade policies are biggest threat to economy warns expert
On Tuesday Ambassador Johnson offered a promising update on negotiations towards a US-UK free trade deal (FTA). He said he held a meeting with International Trade Secretary Liz Truss to discuss the ongoing talks. He said both sides are “working hard every day to get a great FTA”.
Donald Trump speaks to Boris Johnson at last year's NATO summit in Watford


thedailyexpress--2020-12-16--Ireland braces for influx of EU fishing vessels plundering waters in a no deal Brexit

Meanwhile , the chief of the Irish Road Haulage Association ( IRHA ) has issued a dire warning about the implication of new customs checks and import controls , admitting : `` God only knows what the level of disruption will be . ''
With barely a fortnight before the end of the transition period , unless a deal is struck EU ships will be prohibited from UK waters from January 1 .
The Irish Government is concerned as a result they will target Irish seas instead , putting enormous pressure on fish stocks .
Minister for Agriculture , Food @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU 's chief negotiator Michel Barnier to make sure UK access to the single market was conditional on continued access share for EU fleets to British waters .
Mr McConalogue said : `` It 's really important as we come towards what we hope will be a positive outcome that there is recognition there from the British government that , in return , there are many positive aspects of being part of the free trade market , that that needs to work both ways , in particular in relation to reciprocal access to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Any reduction in our fish quota we want to avoid at all costs .
That 's why the attachment of the fish negotiations to other aspects of the free trade agreement ( FTA ) is really important . ''
In the event of a no-deal outcome , French , Belgian , German , Danish and Norwegian vessels , could instead move on to Irish waters .
Mr McConalogue who was speaking at the start of a two-day meeting to thrash out annual catch limits for commercial stocks , known as Total @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MORE : Merkel and Macron could step in at the last-minute if deadlock remains More than 150,000 cross the land bridge between the Republic of Ireland and Europe via the UK .
He added : `` Even without the new checks and controls our ports are heavily congested at certain peak times .
`` God only knows what the level of disruption will be once the new checks and controls take effect from 1 January 2021 .
`` For our members , these new checks and controls will have huge implications and massive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that there is a single entity that takes responsibility for the free movement of traffic at our ports so that this does not fall between the cracks . ''
Mr Drennan said the road haulage industry 's biggest concern is `` scoring own goals '' because of the arrangements put in place to cope with the backlog by the Government .

Brexit: Lorry driver shares concerns over no deal 'waiting times'
Meanwhile, the chief of the Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) has issued a dire warning about the implication of new customs checks and import controls, admitting: "God only knows what the level of disruption will be." With barely a fortnight before the end of the transition period, unless a deal is struck EU ships will be prohibited from UK waters from January 1.
Trending
The Irish Government is concerned as a result they will target Irish seas instead, putting enormous pressure on fish stocks. Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue pleaded with EU's chief negotiator Michel Barnier to make sure UK access to the single market was conditional on continued access share for EU fleets to British waters. Mr McConalogue said: "It's really important as we come towards what we hope will be a positive outcome that there is recognition there from the British government that, in return, there are many positive aspects of being part of the free trade market, that that needs to work both ways, in particular in relation to reciprocal access to waters and also maintenance of quota share.
Micheal Martin, Ireland's Taoiseach, is deeply concerned at the impact on the country's economy
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue
"Any reduction in our fish quota we want to avoid at all costs. That's why the attachment of the fish negotiations to other aspects of the free trade agreement (FTA) is really important." In the event of a no-deal outcome, French, Belgian, German, Danish and Norwegian vessels, could instead move on to Irish waters. Mr McConalogue who was speaking at the start of a two-day meeting to thrash out annual catch limits for commercial stocks, known as Total Allowable Catches (TACs). READ MORE: Merkel and Macron could step in at the last-minute if deadlock remains
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Fishing boats moored up in Cork
Michel Barnier, the EU's chief Brexit negotiator
Fishing rights has been one of Brexit's most central issues
God only knows what the level of disruption will be Eugene Drennan
More than 150,000 cross the land bridge between the Republic of Ireland and Europe via the UK. He added: "Even without the new checks and controls our ports are heavily congested at certain peak times. "God only knows what the level of disruption will be once the new checks and controls take effect from 1 January 2021.
EU countries most dependent on UK waters
"For our members, these new checks and controls will have huge implications and massive knock-on consequences. "It is vital that there is a single entity that takes responsibility for the free movement of traffic at our ports so that this does not fall between the cracks." Mr Drennan said the road haulage industry's biggest concern is "scoring own goals" because of the arrangements put in place to cope with the backlog by the Government.
The impact of a hard Brexit on Ireland