thedailyexpress--2020-03-18--PMQs LIVE: MPs locked out of Commons as Boris and Corbyn prepare for surreal showdown

The Prime Minister and outgoing Labour Party leader will be joined by just 15 MPs in the House of Commons .
Deputy Chief Whip Steve Andrew has issued the following notice : “ In order to ensure that we follow advice being given to the public , it has been decided that only people on the Order Paper should be in the Chamber for both Northern Ireland and Prime Minister ’ s Questions .
“ We respectfully ask you to adhere to this message.
” Sky News Political Editor Beth Rigby tweeted PMQs will have an `` eerie '' feel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ There will be 15 MPs the PM and Jeremy Corbyn .
How eerie it will feel .
“ But govt has to practice what it preaches in regard to distancing .
“ We are really on war footing.
” PMQs takes place less than 24 hours after the Government unveiled a huge £350billion coronavirus rescue plan for the UK economy .
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has announced a range of financial measures aimed at securing the economy against the coronavirus impact , including £330billion in loans , £20billion in additional aid , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for under-pressure retailers and pubs .
He promised to go further if the coronavirus situation worsened significantly , and if this bumper financial package does n't prove to be enough .
But the Labour Party immediately lashed out , with outgoing Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell saying he was `` disappointed '' the Government 's financial package of measures did not appreciate the urgency of the situation .
11.30am update : Johnson , Corbyn and only 15 MPs to be present during PMQs - 'Eerie ' feeling Boris Johnson , Jeremy Corbyn and 15 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ present in the House of Commons during PMQs .
Deputy Chief Whip Steve Andrew has issued the following notice : “ In order to ensure that we follow advice being given to the public , it has been decided that only people on the Order Paper should be in the Chamber for both Northern Ireland and Prime Minister ’ s Questions .
“ We respectfully ask you to adhere to this message.
” Sky News Political Editor Beth Rigby : “ There will be 15 MPs the PM and Jeremy Corbyn .
How @ @ @ @ @ @ @ govt has to practice what it preaches in regard to distancing .
“ We are really on war footing .
”

PMQs: Johnson grilled by Corbyn on statutory sick pay
The Prime Minister was challenged by the Labour Party leader less than 24 hours after the Government unveiled a huge £350billion coronavirus rescue plan for the UK economy. Chancellor Rishi Sunak has announced a range of financial measures aimed at securing the economy against the coronavirus impact, including £330billion in loans, £20billion in additional aid, a business rates holiday, and grants for under-pressure retailers and pubs. He promised to go further if the coronavirus situation worsened significantly, and if this bumper financial package doesn't prove to be enough.
Mr Corbyn told the Commons: "Generations to come will look back on this moment and they will judge us, judge us on the actions we take now. "Our response must be bold and it must be decisive. The market cannot deliver what is needed, only collective public action led by Government can protect our people and our society. "And that collective action must not allow, must not allow the burden to fall most on those who lack the resources to come as happened after the financial crash." He added: "The health of us all depends on the health of the most vulnerable, so I ask the Prime Minister, will he step up now and not tomorrow and give support to those vulnerable people who live on the margins of society, who are vulnerable themselves and make us all vulnerable, and give them the support and the assurance that they are desperately searching for today?"
PMQs LIVE: Boris Johnson and Jeremy Corbyn will clash over coronavirus
The Prime Minister replied: "Indeed I can Mr Speaker and that's why we've announced another £500 million to go straight into councils to help them immediately with the needs of the poorest and the most vulnerable." Mr Johnson revealed the UK will step up coronavirus action by testing up to 25,000 per day. He also said Britain is "much closer" to having a generally available test to determine whether someone has had coronavirus. The Prime Minister said: "We are prioritising testing of NHS staff for the obvious reason that we want them to be able to look after everybody else with confidence that they're not transmitting the disease and this country is actually far ahead of many other comparable countries in testing huge numbers of people. "We're increasing our tests from 5,000 to 10,000 a day and it may be of interest to the House to know that we are getting much closer to having a generally available test which will determine whether or not you have had the disease and that will truly be of huge benefit to this country in tackling the outbreak." FOLLOW EXPRESS.CO.UK FOR LIVE UPDATES FROM PMQS:
PMQs LIVE: Jeremy Corbyn attacked the Government's response over the coronavirus outbreak
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12.32pm update: PM rejects pressure to extend Brexit transition period DUP MP for North Down Stephen Farry said: "Defeating the coronavirus must be the top, indeed the only priority, for the forseeable future. There's already huge anxiety across the UK, businesses are facing unprecedented challenge and uncertainty. "So regardless of Leave or Remain, how quickly will the Prime Minister recognise the inevitable and seek at least a one-year extension to the Brexit implementation process?" Mr Johnson replied: "Our priority is to deal with the coronavirus epidemic and the other matter that he mentions has already, as he will know, been legislated for." 12.26pm update: Boris criticised for coronavirus response - 'Time to act is now' Dr Rosena Allin-Khan, MP for Tooting, said: "We are inunprecendetred times. I would like to know: where was the forward planning? "Where is the testing for medics? Why are we waiting so long for mass testing? "Why are social distancing measurers just suggestions." She urged Mr Johnson to "put party loyalty aside" and to "scale up the response". The MP concluded: "Without good leadership, people in this country will start to panic. The time to act is now."
PMQs LIVE: Boris Johnson revealed the UK is stepping up coronavirus testing
12.19pm update: Johnson attacked over job losses 'happening now' from coronavirus outbreak The SNP's Westminster leader said: "Thousands of people are already losing their jobs, it's happening today. Millions will face the same threat. They need reassurance and support, and they need it today. They need an income guarantee. "We must not repeat history. People are worried about their bills, they are worried about keeping a roof over their head. "In the last financial crisis the banks were bailed out but ordinary people were not. "Prime Minister you have it within your power to protect people's incomes and provide them with peace of mind." Mr Johnson agreed to hold talks with supporters of the universal income scheme, adding: "I agree profoundly with what he said about not repeating history. "It is very important that as we ask the public to do the right thing for themselves and everybody else that no-one - whatever their income - should be penalised for doing the right thing, and we will make sure that that is the case." 12.17pm update: Decision to close schools to be taken 'imminently' Boris Johnson told the Commons the Government will be making further decisions "imminently" over whether to close schools due to the coronavirus outbreak. He said: "The House (of Commons) should expect further decisions to be taken imminently on schools and how to make sure that we square the circle both of making sure that we stop the spread of the disease but also of making sure that we relieve as much as we can pressure on our National Health Service."
PMQs: Johnson promises 25,000 Coronavirus tests for NHS
12.15pm update: Corbyn demands Johnson 'step up now' over coronavirus response The Labour leader said: "Generations to come will look back on this moment and they will judge us, judge us on the actions we take now. "Our response must be bold and it must be decisive. The market cannot deliver what is needed, only collective public action led by Government can protect our people and our society. "And that collective action must not allow, must not allow the burden to fall most on those who lack the resources to come as happened after the financial crash." He added: "The health of us all depends on the health of the most vulnerable, so I ask the Prime Minister, will he step up now and not tomorrow and give support to those vulnerable people who live on the margins of society, who are vulnerable themselves and make us all vulnerable, and give them the support and the assurance that they are desperately searching for today?" The Prime Minister replied: "Indeed I can Mr Speaker and that's why we've announced another £500 million to go straight into councils to help them immediately with the needs of the poorest and the most vulnerable." 12.12pm update: UK 'much closer' to having available test to determine whether someone has coronavirus Jeremy Corbyn said: "NHS staff and those working in the care sector are on the front line of caring for patients suffering from coronavirus. However, sadly, those workers have no idea if they're actually transmitting the virus themselves. "They may not be obviously suffering from it but they could still be transmitting it and if they're ill or not, when they return on the front line, what effect it will have. So can the Prime Minister please explain why the Government isn't prioritising the testing of all health care staff, both those in the NHS and those doing such a vital job in the care sector?" Mr Johnson said: "Well in point of fact, we are prioritising testing of NHS staff for the obvious reason that we want them to be able to look after everybody else with confidence that they're not transmitting the disease and this country is actually far ahead of many other comparable countries in testing huge numbers of people. "We're increasing our tests from 5,000 to 10,000 a day and it may be of interest to the House to know that we are getting much closer to having a generally available test which will determine whether or not you have had the disease and that will truly be of huge benefit to this country in tackling the outbreak."
PMQs LIVE: Ian Blackford attacked the Prime Minister over job losses 'happening now'
12.10pm update: Legislation to be brought forward to help protect private renters from eviction Jeremy Corbyn said: "Yesterday, the Chancellor unfortunately offered nothing to the 20 million people living in rented homes, including 3 million households with children. "They're worried, they're worried sick that they can't pay their rent if they get ill, lose pay or feel they need to self-isolate. "It is in the interests of public health, of the health of all of us, that people don't feel forced to go to work in order to avoid eviction when they know themselves they may be spreading this terrible disease. "So will the Prime Minister now confirm that the Government's emergency legislation will protect private renters from eviction?" Mr Johnson responded: "I can indeed confirm that we will be bringing forward legislation to protect private renters from eviction, that is one thing we will do, but it is also important as we legislate that we do not simply pass on the problem so we'll also be taking steps to protect other actors in the economy."
PMQs LIVE: Rosena Allin-Khan also criticised the Government response to the coronavirus outbreak
12.07pm update: PM warns coronavirus outbreak is 'national emergency' - more measures to be introduced Mr Johnson says: "It's only right that when we're asking people to take action to isolate themselves, whether they have the disease or a member of their household has the disease, if we're asking the public to take steps which jeopardise businesses, causes people to risk losing their jobs, it's absolutely right that whatever their circumstances we should ensure workers get the support they need. "So in addition to the package of business support that the Chancellor outlined yesterday, we will be working with the unions, working with colleagues across the House, we will be bringing forward further measures to support workers of all kinds throughout this crisis." 12.05pm update: UK to step up coronavirus testing Boris Johnson tells an almost empty House of Commons the UK will step up coronavirus action by testing up to 25,000 per day. Jeremy Corbyn said: "The World Health Organisation said test, test, test and we should be testing, I believe, on an industrial scale." He said 10,000 tests per day is "nowhere near even the number of people working in the NHS and the care sector". The Labour leader added: "It is a massive undertaking and I wish there was a greater sense of urgency from the Government in getting this testing available for all staff. "NHS staff are obviously on the front line and many are scared because the guidance has been changed to say they do not need to wear full protective equipment when caring for patients." "We shouldn't be scaring doctors and nurses - is there a policy for them to have full protective equipment or not? Because I believe it should be the case." Boris Johnson replied: "On testing, to reassure him, we're moving up to 25,000 a day." 12.02pm update: Corbyn thanks MPs for following coronavirus advice The Labour leader thanks ministers for their "responsible approach" in sitting a "suitable distance apart to avoid cross-fertilisation of this horrible disease". He says: "Today people are mourning the loss of loved ones. "Many more will be suffering from the effects of coronavirus, including those already losing work or losing their jobs and worried about whether they can keep a roof over their heads."
PMQs LIVE: There are just a handful of ministers present in the House of Commons
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thedailyexpress--2020-03-18--Brexit POLL: Do you agree with trade talks being cancelled due to coronavirus? VOTE

Express.co.uk readers can vote in our poll on whether they agree with post-Brexit trade talks being cancelled amid the Covid-19 outbreak .
It comes as Boris Johnson ’ s Europe adviser David Frost and the EU ’ s chief negotiator Michel Barnier were set to hold discussions today .
But a UK Government spokesman said on Tuesday they would not `` formally be convening negotiating work strands ” .
But the spokesman added that both sides remain `` fully committed '' to the negotiation process .
And they insisted that the December 31 transition period deadline would not be extended @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in law ” .
The spokesman said : `` In light of the latest guidance on coronavirus , we will not formally be convening negotiating work strands tomorrow in the way we did in the previous round .
`` We expect to share a draft FTA alongside the draft legal texts of a number of the standalone agreements in the near future still , as planned .
`` Both sides remain fully committed to the negotiations and we remain in regular contact with the European Commission to consider alternative ways to continue discussions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ video conferencing or conference calls , and exploring flexibility in the structure for the coming weeks .
`` The transition period ends on December 31 , 2020 .
This is enshrined in UK law . ''
READ MORE : EU told to axe Brexit transition as UK sparks anger over coronavirus Face-to-face meetings for the second round of negotiations had already been ruled out because of the virus .
The trade deal talks , which began in Brussels earlier this month , were due to switch between the British and Belgian capitals .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ March 31 and is in a transition period with the bloc until the end of 2020 as the two sides work to strike a trade agreement .
DO N'T MISS Brexit LIVE : Boris REJECTS transition period delay due to coronavirus [ LIVE BLOG ] Brexit : France 's fisheries warning to Boris Johnson revealed [ INSIGHT ] Coronavirus : Do you have an 'underlying health condition ' ?
[ ANALYSIS ] The Prime Minister has repeatedly pledged he will not push back the deadline .
But the coronavirus crisis has led to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comes as 55,000 people in the UK are estimated to have the killer virus .

Coronavirus: Brexit talks should be postponed says Jardine
Express.co.uk readers can vote in our poll on whether they agree with post-Brexit trade talks being cancelled amid the Covid-19 outbreak. It comes as Boris Johnson’s Europe adviser David Frost and the EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier were set to hold discussions today. THIS POLL HAS NOW CLOSED - SEE RESULTS HERE.
But a UK Government spokesman said on Tuesday they would not "formally be convening negotiating work strands”. The spokesman added that both sides remain "fully committed" to the negotiation process. And they insisted that the December 31 transition period deadline would not be extended, highlighting that it was “enshrined in law”. The spokesman said: "In light of the latest guidance on coronavirus, we will not formally be convening negotiating work strands tomorrow in the way we did in the previous round.
Trade talks planned for today between the UK and the EU have been called off due to coronavirus
Express.co.uk readers can vote in our poll on whether they agree with post-Brexit trade talks being cancelled amid the Covid-19 outbreak
"We expect to share a draft FTA alongside the draft legal texts of a number of the standalone agreements in the near future still, as planned. "Both sides remain fully committed to the negotiations and we remain in regular contact with the European Commission to consider alternative ways to continue discussions, including looking at the possibility of video conferencing or conference calls, and exploring flexibility in the structure for the coming weeks. "The transition period ends on December 31, 2020. This is enshrined in UK law." READ MORE: EU told to axe Brexit transition as UK sparks anger over coronavirus
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Boris Johnson’s Europe adviser David Frost and the EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier were set to hold discussions on Wednesday
Face-to-face meetings for the second round of negotiations had already been ruled out because of the virus. The trade deal talks, which began in Brussels earlier this month, were due to switch between the British and Belgian capitals. The UK officially left the EU on March 31 and is in a transition period with the bloc until the end of 2020 as the two sides work to strike a trade agreement. DON'T MISS
Brexit LIVE: Boris REJECTS transition period delay due to coronavirus [LIVE BLOG]
Brexit: France's fisheries warning to Boris Johnson revealed [INSIGHT]
Coronavirus: Do you have an 'underlying health condition'? [ANALYSIS]
The Prime Minister has repeatedly pledged he will not push back the deadline. But the coronavirus crisis has led to calls to rethink the timetable. It comes as 55,000 people in the UK are estimated to have the killer virus.
Rishi Sunak vowed to do "whatever it takes" as he unveiled a £350 billion package for businesses
Meanwhile, the death toll has climbed to 71. The public has been told to avoid all non-essential contact and travel. In other coronavirus developments, the Government announced that emergency legislation would give the police powers to arrest and isolate people to protect public health.
Brexit timeline
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thedailyexpress--2020-03-18--Britain unleashes £330billion war chest as Boris vows 'deadly coronavirus IS beatable'

He also scrapped business rates for a year and promised cash grants for shops , pubs and other high-street outlets hit by the slump in customers following Government advice to stay at home along with three-month mortgage holidays for homeowners in need .
Planning regulations are to be ripped up to allow pubs and restaurants to sell takeaway food .
Vowing to do “ whatever it takes ” to protect the economy , he said : “ We have never , in peacetime , faced an economic fight like this one.
” He unveiled his colossal barrage of financial support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK GDP – as Boris Johnson admitted the crisis demanded steps that are “ unprecedented since World War Two.
” The Prime Minister indicated that further sweeping emergency measures will be announced in the coming days .
“ We must act like any wartime government and do whatever it takes to support our economy , ” the Prime Minister said .
“ I stress that although the measures announced are already extreme , we may well have to go further and faster in the coming days to protect lives and the NHS.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be deadly , but it is also beatable.
” Whitehall sources indicated the Government was considering closing schools and was preparing support for disadvantaged families whose children qualify for free school meals .
A Government source said : `` We have never shied away from the fact there may come a point where we have to close schools . ''
Mr Sunak announced his support package for business – which comes less than a week after his big spending emergency Budget – at a news conference alongside Mr Johnson in Downing Street last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was facing both public health and economic emergencies .
“ This struggle will not be overcome by a single package of measures , or isolated interventions .
“ It will be won through a collective national effort .
Every one of us , doing all we can to protect families , neighbours , friends , jobs.
” He admitted the scale of his package of state intervention would have been “ unimaginable ” just a few weeks ago .
“ This is not a time for ideology and orthodoxy .
This is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for courage .
“ I want to reassure every British citizen , this government will give you all the tools you need to get through this .
“ We will support jobs , we will support incomes , we will support businesses , and we will help you protect your loved ones .
We will do whatever it takes.
” : :Keeping large firms afloat with a major new Bank of England scheme to help them bridge Coronavirus disruption to their cash flows through loans .
: :Hiking the amount businesses can borrow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from £1.2million to £5million with six months of interest-free finance guaranteed by the Government .
: :£20 billion of business rates support and grant funding to help the most-affected firms manage their cash flow during the peak of the crisis .
: :A 100 % business rate holiday for all retail , hospitality and leisure businesses in England over the next 12 months .
: :Increasing grants to small businesses eligible for Small Business Rate Relief from £3,000 to £10,000 .
: :Providing further £25,000 grants to retail , hospitality and leisure businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ value over £15,000 and below £51,000 .
: :An agreement with banks and building societies that they will support customers in financial difficulties as a result of the crisis with mortgage payment holidays of up to three months .
Mr Sunak also indicated he will assume emergency powers to allow him to take urgent financial measures in the coming weeks without the need for a parliamentary vote .
He made clear further drastic measures including a massive injection of cash to support the economy were in the pipeline .
Mr Sunak said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
When I said in the Budget that we will do everything we can to keep this country , and our people , healthy and financially secure – I meant it .
“ The measures I have announced today are part of a comprehensive , coordinated and coherent response to what is a serious and evolving economic situation .
“ These are only the first steps – I will set out the next stage of our response in the coming days .
“ We have never faced an economic fight like this one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We will get through this .
And we will do whatever it takes .

Coronavirus: Sunak announces £330bn of government loans
He also scrapped business rates for a year and promised cash grants for shops, pubs and other high-street outlets hit by the slump in customers following Government advice to stay at home along with three-month mortgage holidays for homeowners in need. Planning regulations are to be ripped up to allow pubs and restaurants to sell takeaway food.
Vowing to do “whatever it takes” to protect the economy, he said: “We have never, in peacetime, faced an economic fight like this one.” He unveiled his colossal barrage of financial support – equivalent to 15 percent of the UK GDP – as Boris Johnson admitted the crisis demanded steps that are “unprecedented since World War Two.” The Prime Minister indicated that further sweeping emergency measures will be announced in the coming days. “We must act like any wartime government and do whatever it takes to support our economy,” the Prime Minister said.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak
Rishi Sunak leaves No 11
“I stress that although the measures announced are already extreme, we may well have to go further and faster in the coming days to protect lives and the NHS.” He added: “This enemy can be deadly, but it is also beatable.” Whitehall sources indicated the Government was considering closing schools and was preparing support for disadvantaged families whose children qualify for free school meals.
A Government source said: "We have never shied away from the fact there may come a point where we have to close schools."
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Boris Johnson
Mr Sunak announced his support package for business – which comes less than a week after his big spending emergency Budget – at a news conference alongside Mr Johnson in Downing Street last night. The Chancellor said the country was facing both public health and economic emergencies. “This struggle will not be overcome by a single package of measures, or isolated interventions. “It will be won through a collective national effort. Every one of us, doing all we can to protect families, neighbours, friends, jobs.” He admitted the scale of his package of state intervention would have been “unimaginable” just a few weeks ago. “This is not a time for ideology and orthodoxy. This is a time to be bold. A time for courage.
“I want to reassure every British citizen, this government will give you all the tools you need to get through this. “We will support jobs, we will support incomes, we will support businesses, and we will help you protect your loved ones. We will do whatever it takes.” His measures included: ::Keeping large firms afloat with a major new Bank of England scheme to help them bridge Coronavirus disruption to their cash flows through loans. ::Hiking the amount businesses can borrow through the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme from £1.2million to £5million with six months of interest-free finance guaranteed by the Government.
::£20 billion of business rates support and grant funding to help the most-affected firms manage their cash flow during the peak of the crisis. ::A 100% business rate holiday for all retail, hospitality and leisure businesses in England over the next 12 months. ::Increasing grants to small businesses eligible for Small Business Rate Relief from £3,000 to £10,000. ::Providing further £25,000 grants to retail, hospitality and leisure businesses operating from smaller premises with a rateable value over £15,000 and below £51,000. ::An agreement with banks and building societies that they will support customers in financial difficulties as a result of the crisis with mortgage payment holidays of up to three months.
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Mr Sunak also indicated he will assume emergency powers to allow him to take urgent financial measures in the coming weeks without the need for a parliamentary vote. He made clear further drastic measures including a massive injection of cash to support the economy were in the pipeline. Mr Sunak said: “Let no one doubt our resolve. When I said in the Budget that we will do everything we can to keep this country, and our people, healthy and financially secure – I meant it. “The measures I have announced today are part of a comprehensive, coordinated and coherent response to what is a serious and evolving economic situation. “These are only the first steps – I will set out the next stage of our response in the coming days. “We have never faced an economic fight like this one. But we are well prepared. We will get through this. And we will do whatever it takes.


thedailyexpress--2020-03-18--PMQs LOCKDOWN: Boris joined by Corbyn and only 15 MPs as 25 colleagues in self-isolation

With increasingly stringent measures now applying to large parts of the country , and the Government advising on Monday that people should work from home wherever possible , it remains business as usual at Westminster , meaning the nation 's 650 MPs are carrying on as normal as far as possible , although a directive issued earlier by deputy chief whip Stuart Andrew meaning there will be just 17 MPs in the Chamber for PMQs .
However , a large number are currently quarantined , according to the Guido Fawkes website , which today published a rolling list of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Included on this are junior health minister and Tory MP for mid-Bedfordshire Nadine Dorries , the first MP diagnosed with COVID-19 , and Kate Osborne , Labour MP for Jarrow .
Labour MP Lucy Powell for Manchester Central voiced her concern on Twitter , posting : `` With central London such a 'hot bed ' for spreading the virus , we really need to quickly change how we are working in Parliament & Whitehall .
`` We should be practising what we are preaching .
MPs , sitting cheek by jowl all day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , isn ’ t good . ''
Calling for `` radical steps '' , she added : `` It ’ s not just the chamber but MPs travelling to and from London , MPs in vulnerable groups or self-isolating etc .
`` We need to ensure those following advice are still able to directly raise issues . ''
Wes Streeting , Labour MP for Ilford North , replied : `` Parliament must sit throughout this crisis , especially during this crisis , but we can change the way we work with practical steps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ questions and debates to help limit numbers in the chamber .
Ms Dorries , 62 , whose 84-year-old mother also contracted the bug , subsquently wrote about her experiences , saying : `` I will never know how I became infected with Covid-19 , only that I am one of the first people in the country to have been identified who has not recently been abroad or been in close contact with someone who had returned from abroad . ''
Ms Osborne meanwhile tweeted : “ Many people are asking about my coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a dry cough but I was also feeling tightness in my chest .
Over the next few days my chest became worse with a shortness of breath and a burning sensation in my back .
READ MORE : UK coronavirus - Boris puts industry on war footing to make ventilators '' I haven ’ t developed a temperature which I understand is quite fortunate nor any dizziness .
“ The isolation is difficult , I am separated from my family and miss them terribly .
There are also many practical difficulties to overcome @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Shrewsbury and Atcham , told Express.co.uk as things stood , Parliament was down to a `` skeleton crew '' of MPs and security .
He added : `` I think it is extremely important that the Government is scrutinised in the most effective way possible and therefore members of Parliament should carry on doing the job there in the House of Commons as long as the health authorities tell us that it is sensible to do so .
How to lose visceral fat : Best food to eat at breakfast to reduce @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Coronavirus : Can Dettol kill the virus ?
Disinfectants you could use against the virus [ INSIGHT ] Heart attack symptoms : Three subtle signs of the deadly condition women should n't ignore [ TIPS ] '' As yet we have not had any such request to leave .
Clearly it would be highly irresponsible to ignore health advice and carry on being in the House of Commons but until that we must carry on . ''
Andrew Gwynne , Labour MP for Denton and Reddish , one of the MPs currently self-isolating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and I ’ ve woken up feeling the best I have for a while !
Still a bit of a huffy cough but other than that I now feel ok ... hopefully over the worst .
`` Thanks for all the kind get well messages .
My family and I have appreciated receiving them .
And stay safe . ''
Speaker of the House of Commons Sir Lindsey Hoyle is tonight expected to say : `` Parliament will stop all non-essential access from tomorrow to both Houses .
`` All Members who have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pregnant , or are over 70 , should pay particular attention to the advice of Public Health England .
`` No access to the public gallery - and side galleries will be restricted for use by Members of both Houses Member tours for constituents will be stopped .
`` The Education Centre will be closed and education and school visits will cease from tomorrow .

Coronavirus: Parliament to ‘limit access’ to Commons and Lords
With increasingly stringent measures now applying to large parts of the country, and the Government advising on Monday that people should work from home wherever possible, it remains business as usual at Westminster, meaning the nation's 650 MPs are carrying on as normal as far as possible, although a directive issued earlier by deputy chief whip Stuart Andrew meaning there will be just 17 MPs in the Chamber for PMQs. However, a large number are currently quarantined, according to the Guido Fawkes website, which today published a rolling list of the MPs concerned, including confirmed cases. Included on this are junior health minister and Tory MP for mid-Bedfordshire Nadine Dorries, the first MP diagnosed with COVID-19, and Kate Osborne, Labour MP for Jarrow.
Labour MP Lucy Powell for Manchester Central voiced her concern on Twitter, posting: "With central London such a 'hot bed' for spreading the virus, we really need to quickly change how we are working in Parliament & Whitehall. "We should be practising what we are preaching. MPs, sitting cheek by jowl all day, heading back off around the country, isn’t good." Calling for "radical steps", she added: "It’s not just the chamber but MPs travelling to and from London, MPs in vulnerable groups or self-isolating etc. "We need to ensure those following advice are still able to directly raise issues."
Boris Johnson's PMQs features just 15 MPs
House of Commons Speaker Lindsay Hoyle
MPs, sitting cheek by jowl all day, heading back off around the country, isn’t good Lucy Powell MP
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Wes Streeting, Labour MP for Ilford North, replied: "Parliament must sit throughout this crisis, especially during this crisis, but we can change the way we work with practical steps - like a rota for speakers during questions and debates to help limit numbers in the chamber. Ms Dorries, 62, whose 84-year-old mother also contracted the bug, subsquently wrote about her experiences, saying: "I will never know how I became infected with Covid-19, only that I am one of the first people in the country to have been identified who has not recently been abroad or been in close contact with someone who had returned from abroad." Ms Osborne meanwhile tweeted: “Many people are asking about my coronavirus symptoms. “My symptoms started with a dry cough but I was also feeling tightness in my chest. Over the next few days my chest became worse with a shortness of breath and a burning sensation in my back. READ MORE: UK coronavirus - Boris puts industry on war footing to make ventilators
Prime Minister Boris Johnson
"I haven’t developed a temperature which I understand is quite fortunate nor any dizziness. “The isolation is difficult, I am separated from my family and miss them terribly. There are also many practical difficulties to overcome." Daniel Kawczynski, Tory MP for Shrewsbury and Atcham, told Express.co.uk as things stood, Parliament was down to a "skeleton crew" of MPs and security. He added: "I think it is extremely important that the Government is scrutinised in the most effective way possible and therefore members of Parliament should carry on doing the job there in the House of Commons as long as the health authorities tell us that it is sensible to do so. DON'T MISS How to lose visceral fat: Best food to eat at breakfast to reduce the harmful belly fat Coronavirus: Can Dettol kill the virus? Disinfectants you could use against the virus Heart attack symptoms: Three subtle signs of the deadly condition women shouldn't ignore
Coronavirus and dow to reduce risk
"As yet we have not had any such request to leave. Clearly it would be highly irresponsible to ignore health advice and carry on being in the House of Commons but until that we must carry on." Andrew Gwynne, Labour MP for Denton and Reddish, one of the MPs currently self-isolating, today tweeted: "Day 6 and I’ve woken up feeling the best I have for a while! Still a bit of a huffy cough but other than that I now feel ok... hopefully over the worst. "Thanks for all the kind get well messages. My family and I have appreciated receiving them. And stay safe." Speaker of the House of Commons Sir Lindsey Hoyle is tonight expected to say: "Parliament will stop all non-essential access from tomorrow to both Houses.
The UK's coronavirus battleplan
"All Members who have underlying health conditions, or may be pregnant, or are over 70, should pay particular attention to the advice of Public Health England. "No access to the public gallery - and side galleries will be restricted for use by Members of both Houses Member tours for constituents will be stopped. "The Education Centre will be closed and education and school visits will cease from tomorrow.
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"And finally, there will be reduction of catering facilities across the Estate "I have taken this decision, consistent with the latest Government advice, with the Lord Speaker, in consultation with Public Health England. "These further steps are necessary to allow Parliament to continue to fulfil its constitutional duties but will be kept under constant review. I would like to thank all on the Parliamentary Estate for keeping the House running.”
Coronavirus: Ashworth grilled over MPs sitting in parliament


thedailyexpress--2020-03-18--Brexit LIVE: Sorry, Brussels! Johnson REJECTS transition period delay due to coronavirus

A UK Government spokesman insisted the strict deadline set by Boris Johnson is “ enshrined in UK law ” .
He admitted on Tuesday they would not “ formally be convening negotiating work tomorrow ” but that both sides remain “ fully committed ” to the Brexit talks process .
The spokesman said : “ In light of the latest guidance on coronavirus , we will not formally be convening negotiating work strands tomorrow in the way we did in the previous round . ''
“ We expect to share a draft FTA alongside the draft legal texts of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ near future still , as planned .
“ Both sides remain fully committed to the negotiations and we remain in regular contact with the European Commission to consider alternative ways to continue discussions , including looking at the possibility of video conferencing or conference calls , and exploring flexibility in the structure for the coming weeks .
“ The transition period ends on December 31 , 2020 .
This is enshrined in UK law.
” The latest commitment from the Government came after Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab came under pressure from opposition MPs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the transition period .
Labour MP Stephen Kinnock told him : “ Rather than trying to fight this war on two fronts , if you like , and stretching government bandwidth to breaking point , surely the time is now coming to request an extension to the transition period and it ’ s better to do that than to put ideology ahead of the health and safety of the British people.
” But before talks were cancelled , former Brexit Secretary Mr Raab insisted : “ We ’ re confident that we can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I don ’ t think delaying Brexit negotiations would give anyone the certainty - on either side of the Channel - that they need.
” 10.39am update : Do you agree with trade talks being cancelled due to coronavirus ?
VOTE TRADE talks planned this week between the UK and the EU have been called off due to coronavirus - but do you agree with negotiations being cancelled ?
Express.co.uk readers can vote in our poll on whether they agree with post-Brexit trade talks being cancelled amid the Covid-19 outbreak .
It comes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ David Frost and the EU ’ s chief negotiator Michel Barnier were set to hold discussions today .
A UK Government spokesman said on Tuesday they would not `` formally be convening negotiating work strands ” .
But they added that both sides remain `` fully committed '' to the negotiation process .
And they insisted that the December 31 transition period deadline would not be extended , highlighting that it was “ enshrined in law ” .
Brexit has caused the historic tensions between the UK and France over fisheries to reignite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prime Minister Boris Johnson will be unable to stop the country 's fishermen from exploring British fishing grounds .
The statement was made by France 's Agriculture Minister Didier Guillaume as he maintained there is `` no scenario '' in which Mr Johnson can keep French fishermen out of UK waters .
In July 2019 , Mr Guillaume said : “ It is possible that with Boris Johnson we will have a hard Brexit .
“ There is no scenario in which French fishermen should be prevented , could be prevented , would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fishing in British waters .
“ There is no reason for it .
So I will keep telling Britain that our fishermen must be allowed to keep fishing in its water.
” 8.55am update : Could Johnson be forced into extending transition period because of coronavirus ?
Hundreds of negotiators from the UK and EU were due to meet in London today to begin the second round of talks on a post-Brexit free trade agreement .
But the coronavirus outbreak sweeping across Europe has meant those discussions have been postponed .
This has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to extend the transition period beyond his December 31 deadline - something he is refusing to do .
Anand Menon , professor of European politics and foreign affairs at King ’ s College London , told the UK Parliament ’ s Future Relationship with the EU Committee on Tuesday : “ This pandemic means that the case for an extension to the transition becomes much , much stronger .
“ It makes an already compressed timetable still more compressed.
” 8.44am update : Former Brexit Secretary insists 'no reason ' to delay Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are aiming towards a comprehensive free trade agreement along the lines promised by Donald Tusk and entrenched in the political declaration .
If we achieve that , there is no need for concern.
” He added : “ The unfortunate Covid-19 events will mean that cross-border traffic will be depressed and customs will be more than able to handle the traffic.
” 8.04am update : EU ordered to axe Brexit transition after Boris sparks anger with UK coronavirus response Brussels has been urged to axe Britain from the post-Brexit transition period after Boris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' to curb the coronavirus outbreak .
The Prime Minister was accused of putting the lives of some 3.2 million European citizens living in the UK at risk after not putting the country into full lockdown .
A group of senior Italian MEPs , including a European Parliament vice-president , have penned a letter to the European Commission calling for the bloc to place Britain under “ sanctions ” until the Government implements more draconian measures to curtail the spread of the deadly virus .
“ Boris Johnson communicated the decision not to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ among citizens and their ‘ flock immunisation ’ , ” they wrote , in the memo seen by Express.co.uk .
“ His irresponsible decision does not take into account the claims of the WHO and has been severely contested by the scientific community and in particular by the best known virologists and immunologists internationally , as it exposes thousands of people at risk of life , including many Europeans residing in the United Kingdom .
“ In addition , British inaction is likely to wipe out the massive virus containment efforts in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exposing the entire EU to a second epidemic wave.
” 7.50am update : How bust-up sparked fears of WAR at sea after ‘ pirate ’ behaviour Brexit means the UK can soon take back control of its fishing waters - but there are concerns it could increase tensions with its neighbours , as disputes in the past have sparked fears of a war at sea , documents unearthed by Express.co.uk have revealed .
Under the Common Fisheries Policy ( CFP ) , which began in 1983 , all EU countries have access to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bloc , the UK will regain control of its 200 nautical miles Exclusive Economic Zone , as per UN convention .
Currently , Norway allows EU and therefore UK boats to fish in its own EEZ waters in return for market access as well as the right to fish in the EU , and particularly UK , EEZs .
It is expected that post-Brexit , the UK will attempt to trade access to the UK market for access to Norwegian waters .
Similarly , market access to the EU will likely be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ given that the EU is the largest fisheries market in the world and a net importer of fish .
As the European Economic Area ( EEA ) does not cover fisheries , Norway and other EEA countries do not benefit from entirely free trade with the EU – there are different rules for different fish species , as well as for processed and unprocessed fish .
For some species like farmed salmon , Brexit may increase competition between the UK and Norway and the UK ’ s EU access advantage could disappear , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the two countries .
However , such fishing disputes with Norway are nothing new – the UK and Norway are the two largest nautical powers in the plentiful North Sea and have clashed before .
Documents unearthed at the National Archives by Express.co.uk have revealed that alleged offences by UK fishing vessels sparked fears of a war at sea with Norway .

Brexit: 'No intention’ of changing legislation says Johnson
A UK Government spokesman insisted the strict deadline set by Boris Johnson is “enshrined in UK law”, but a senior Tory has said the Prime Minister would "of course" be willing to extend the Transition Period if it became necesary. Brexit talks were suspended following the outbreak of coronavirus across the globe, but the Government has said both sides are "fully committed" to the process.
However, the source told the Mirror: "We could still get a deal done in time, but he will extend the transition if he has to. “They have to stick to the tough rhetoric now - just like they did in October - to keep the pressure on the EU. “But if it comes to it, and a deal looks doable were it not for the coronavirus outbreak, then of course they’d delay.” A Cabinet Minister added to the point from the senior Tory official, stating there would always be a "political price to pay" if the transition period was extended, but that the coronavirus provided a "cover" for the situation. It is thought the pandemic could change the way in which Brexit will develop throughout the year.
Brexit news: Boris Johnson has warned the EU he will not extend the transition period
Labour MP Stephen Kinnock has urged the Government to consider an extention in these exceptional circumstances. He told Dominic Raab: “Rather than trying to fight this war on two fronts, if you like, and stretching government bandwidth to breaking point, surely the time is now coming to request an extension to the transition period and it’s better to do that than to put ideology ahead of the health and safety of the British people.” But before talks were cancelled, former Brexit Secretary Mr Raab insisted: “We’re confident that we can get this done and, actually, I don’t think delaying Brexit negotiations would give anyone the certainty - on either side of the Channel - that they need.” FOLLOW EXPRESS.CO.UK FOR LIVE BREXIT UPDATES:
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9.35pm update: Prime Minister accused of "putting his head in the sand" over a Brexit delay Boris Johnson has been accused of "putting his head in the sand" over the threat of coronavirus to an orderly Brexit deal. Acting Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey said the Prime Minister was wrong to refuse to delay Brexit because of the pandemic. Mr Davey said: "The prime minister has got his head in the sand. “His refusal to guarantee an extension to the Brexit talks is reckless and a dangerous example of putting politics above the needs of the country during the coronavirus crisis." 8.25pm update: Barnier ordered to reclaim UK fishing waters - EU capitals REJECT Brexit trade compromise Michel Barnier has been ordered to wrestle back control of Britain's fishing waters just days after Boris Johnson was handed major concession ahead of this week's cancelled trade talks. The Brussels negotiator was forced into making an embarrassing change to his original draft Free Trade Agreement with Britain. European capitals reacted with fury when they were presented with a series of watered down fisheries demands in his initial text. The document has been upgraded to say the UK and EU should look to “uphold clear and stable rules and existing reciprocal conditions on access to waters and resources”. 7.40pm update: UK and EU exchange draft legal texts The UK and EU have exchanged draft legal texts on a potential trade deal, this evening. A Government spokeswoman said: "This evening the UK and EU have exchanged draft legal texts. We are sharing ours in confidence as a negotiating document, as part of the ongoing negotiating process. "Teams will now analyse each other's texts and we expect further conversations between the teams next week. "We will keep under review which documents it is appropriate to publish during the course of negotiations and whether it is useful to make them available more widely."
6.05pm update: No plans to amend Brexit Transition Period, says PM The Prime Minister has said there are "no plans" to amend the legislation to extend the Transition Period with the EU. Britain is scheduled to leave the European Union at the end of the year, and Mr Johnson says Britain will either have a mutually beneficial trade agreement or the country will revert to WTO rules. 5.20pm update: Pound plummets to lowest level since Brexit market panic. Pound Sterling has plunged to its lowest level since a "flash crash" in October 2016, following concerns surrounding the coronavirus outbreak. Against the dollar, it dropped by 2.5 percent to $1.1744, its lowest level since the Brexit market panic four years ago. 4.30pm update: European bonds take a steep fall today European government bonds have fallen sharply, indictating forced selling across financial markets as a result of the coronavirus outbreak. According to traders, fund managers were pressured to return cash to investors, with European government debt not in demand today. Uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus and a future Brexit trade agreement are said to be contributing factors. 4.10pm update: Labour MP pushes for Brexit delay over coronavirus Labour MP Wes Streeting has joined party colleague David Lammy in linking the ongoing coronavirus crisis to demands for the Government to shelve Brexit talks and extend the Transition Period beyond the end of the year. Mr Streeting tweeted a Government statement confirming the delay of the latest round of talks, which also reaffirmed the commitment of "both sides" to the negotiation process. He commented: "This is not a sustainable position." He subsequently responded to a post by HMRC which referred to the reintroduction of border controls in January 2021, posting: "The idea that businesses should be contending with this in the current crisis exposes the utter stupidity of pretending that the transition period won’t need to be extended."
The five steps which led to Brexit
3.50pm update: No hard border in Irish Sea Post Brexit says Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis, Secretary for Northern Ireland, has dismissed ideas of a hard border in the Irish Sea following Britain's exit from the European Union. Mr Lewis stated the Government will prioritise the Good Friday Agreement and the Belfast Agreement, and is determined to deliver on promises made to the British people. He said: "We are determined to deliver on the agreements that are not only within the Protocol but within the Good Friday Agreement, the Belfast Agreement, so we ensure that there is obviously no border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland and there will be no border between Northern Ireland and Great Britain. "Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom, there will be no hard border in the Irish Sea." 3.30pm update: Switzerland calls off its "Brexit moment" referendum on EU free movement Switzerland has pulled the plug on a May referendum on preserving a relationship with the EU which guarantees the free movement of people. The move came as a result of the coronavirus pandemic which overrode Swiss direct democracy. The proposal was first suggested by the right-wing Swiss People's Party and was described as the country's "Brexit moment" Swiss Government officials has urged voters to reject the proposal to end the free-movement accord. 3.10pm update: BMW and Toyota to suspend UK car making A temporary shutdown of European production by car giants BMW and Toyota has led to speculation regarding what the industry will do after Brexit. Coronavirus has slowed production in the UK of cars, however, this may carry over into Brexit after the virus slows. BMW and Toyota join Nissan and Vauxhall in the closing down of factories, leaving Jaguar Land Rover and Honda as the only large car firms operating in the UK. Live updates taken over by Rebekah Evans. Previously Paul Withers. 1.50pm update: Laura Kuenssberg confession: How BBC editor admitted Brexit ‘changed career forever’ Laura Kuenssberg made a dire Brexit prediction in an unearthed interview that claimed political journalism will never be the same after the EU referendum. The political editor of BBC News argued that even politicians “didn’t really know what to do” after the UK opted to leave the bloc and take back control. She is expected to remain impartial due to her role with the broadcaster on the topics she covers. But in a newly unearthed interview with the Press Gazette, Ms Kuenssberg opened up on the subject of Brexit and how the world had changed.
Brexit news: The EU has been told by the UK it will not be extending the transition period due to coronavirus
12.32pm update: Johnson rejects pressure to extend Brexit transition period Addressing Boris Johnson during Prime Minister's Questions in the House of Commons, DUP MP for North Down Stephen Farry said: "Defeating the coronavirus must be the top, indeed the only priority, for the forseeable future. There's already huge anxiety across the UK, businesses are facing unprecedented challenge and uncertainty. "So regardless of Leave or Remain, how quickly will the Prime Minister recognise the inevitable and seek at least a one-year extension to the Brexit implementation process?" The Prime Minister replied: "Our priority is to deal with the coronavirus epidemic and the other matter that he mentions has already, as he will know, been legislated for." 10.39am update: Do you agree with trade talks being cancelled due to coronavirus? VOTE Trade talks planned this week between the UK and the EU have been called off due to coronavirus - but do you agree with negotiations being cancelled? Express.co.uk readers can vote in our poll on whether they agree with post-Brexit trade talks being cancelled amid the Covid-19 outbreak. It comes as Boris Johnson’s Europe adviser David Frost and the EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier were set to hold discussions today. A UK Government spokesman said on Tuesday they would not "formally be convening negotiating work strands”. But they added that both sides remain "fully committed" to the negotiation process. And they insisted that the December 31 transition period deadline would not be extended, highlighting that it was “enshrined in law”.
Brexit news: Boris Johnson repeated during PMQs he would not be extending the transition period
9.23am update: France's fisheries warning to UK revealed – ‘Boris Johnson won't stop us!' Brexit has caused the historic tensions between the UK and France over fisheries to reignite once more - and Paris is warning Prime Minister Boris Johnson will be unable to stop the country's fishermen from exploring British fishing grounds. The statement was made by France's Agriculture Minister Didier Guillaume as he maintained there is "no scenario" in which Mr Johnson can keep French fishermen out of UK waters. In July 2019, Mr Guillaume said: “It is possible that with Boris Johnson we will have a hard Brexit. “There is no scenario in which French fishermen should be prevented, could be prevented, would be prevented by Boris Johnson, from fishing in British waters. “There is no reason for it. So I will keep telling Britain that our fishermen must be allowed to keep fishing in its water.” 8.55am update: Could Johnson be forced into extending transition period because of coronavirus? Hundreds of negotiators from the UK and EU were due to meet in London today to begin the second round of talks on a post-Brexit free trade agreement. But the coronavirus outbreak sweeping across Europe has meant those discussions have been postponed. This has led to speculation Boris Johnson will have to extend the transition period beyond his December 31 deadline - something he is refusing to do. Anand Menon, professor of European politics and foreign affairs at King’s College London, told the UK Parliament’s Future Relationship with the EU Committee on Tuesday: “This pandemic means that the case for an extension to the transition becomes much, much stronger. “It makes an already compressed timetable still more compressed.”
Brexit news: Trade talks between the EU and UK began in Brussels earlier this month
8.44am update: Former Brexit Secretary insists 'no reason' to delay Brexit talks David Davis said: “We are aiming towards a comprehensive free trade agreement along the lines promised by Donald Tusk and entrenched in the political declaration. If we achieve that, there is no need for concern.” He added: “The unfortunate Covid-19 events will mean that cross-border traffic will be depressed and customs will be more than able to handle the traffic.” 8.04am update: EU ordered to axe Brexit transition after Boris sparks anger with UK coronavirus response Brussels has been urged to axe Britain from the post-Brexit transition period after Boris Johnson provoked fury through his "inaction" to curb the coronavirus outbreak. The Prime Minister was accused of putting the lives of some 3.2 million European citizens living in the UK at risk after not putting the country into full lockdown. A group of senior Italian MEPs, including a European Parliament vice-president, have penned a letter to the European Commission calling for the bloc to place Britain under “sanctions” until the Government implements more draconian measures to curtail the spread of the deadly virus. “Boris Johnson communicated the decision not to combat coronavirus contagion, awaiting its spread among citizens and their ‘flock immunisation’,” they wrote, in the memo seen by Express.co.uk. “His irresponsible decision does not take into account the claims of the WHO and has been severely contested by the scientific community and in particular by the best known virologists and immunologists internationally, as it exposes thousands of people at risk of life, including many Europeans residing in the United Kingdom. “In addition, British inaction is likely to wipe out the massive virus containment efforts in the Member States in the coming months, exposing the entire EU to a second epidemic wave.”
Brexit news: There is an option to extend the transition period on June 30
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thedailyexpress--2020-03-18--Emergency legislation outlines sweeping reforms to tackle Britain’s coronavirus crisis

The changes contained in the coronavirus bill last for two years and will be used only when necessary , according to the government .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said : “ We are doing everything we can to protect lives and support the NHS , guided by the best scientists and clinicians in the world .
“ The new measures we will be introducing in the emergency coronavirus bill this week will only be used when it is absolutely necessary and must be timed to maximise their effectiveness , but crucially they give the government the powers it needs to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the worst and working for the best we will get through this , but this is a national effort and we must all work together – from businesses prioritising the welfare of their employees , to people thoroughly washing their hands.
” The government said the plans will protect life , ensure people who die are treated in a dignified way and support the public to “ do the right thing ” .
Registering deaths will be easier and crematoriums will be able to extend their operating hours .
Councils will be able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to cope with the demands on social care .
It could mean some assessments are delayed and the requirements of some of those already in the system are not met as local authorities “ may not be able to do all the things they are usually required ” .
Doctors will be able to discharge patients more quickly to free up hospital space for the most ill .
The new laws also include a raft of measures to make it easier to draft in extra NHS staff and social workers .
Volunteers will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from their day jobs to help out in the health service and returning retired workers will have their pensions protected .
NHS staff will also be covered by a state-backed insurance scheme if they are drafted into new roles away from their normal duties .
Police and immigration officers are being powers to detain suspected coronavirus sufferers and force them into isolation .
More court cases will be carried out by phone or video hearings and the Border Force could suspend operations at ports if staff shortages threaten national security .
Chief Medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ approach to responding to this outbreak has and will remain driven by the scientific and clinical evidence so we do the right thing at the right time .
“ The measures included in this bill will help support our frontline workers , protect the public and delay the peak of the virus to the summer months when the NHS is typically under less pressure .
“ It is important everyone continues to play their part by avoiding non-essential contact and travel as well as washing their hands regularly for 20 seconds with soap @ @ @ @

Boris Johnson outlines government policy
The changes contained in the coronavirus bill last for two years and will be used only when necessary, according to the government. Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “We are doing everything we can to protect lives and support the NHS, guided by the best scientists and clinicians in the world.
“The new measures we will be introducing in the emergency coronavirus bill this week will only be used when it is absolutely necessary and must be timed to maximise their effectiveness, but crucially they give the government the powers it needs to protect lives. “By planning for the worst and working for the best we will get through this, but this is a national effort and we must all work together – from businesses prioritising the welfare of their employees, to people thoroughly washing their hands.” The government said the plans will protect life, ensure people who die are treated in a dignified way and support the public to “do the right thing”.
Registering deaths will be easier and crematoriums will be able to extend their operating hours. Councils will be able to prioritise people with the greatest needs to cope with the demands on social care. It could mean some assessments are delayed and the requirements of some of those already in the system are not met as local authorities “may not be able to do all the things they are usually required”. Doctors will be able to discharge patients more quickly to free up hospital space for the most ill. The new laws also include a raft of measures to make it easier to draft in extra NHS staff and social workers.
Volunteers will be compensated if they temporarily step away from their day jobs to help out in the health service and returning retired workers will have their pensions protected. NHS staff will also be covered by a state-backed insurance scheme if they are drafted into new roles away from their normal duties. Police and immigration officers are being powers to detain suspected coronavirus sufferers and force them into isolation. More court cases will be carried out by phone or video hearings and the Border Force could suspend operations at ports if staff shortages threaten national security.
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thedailyexpress--2020-03-18--‘Boris must not let us down!’ UK urged to continue Brexit trade talks with Brussels

Express.co.uk readers have urged Boris Johnson to continue post-Brexit trade talks with the EU despite the coronavirus pandemic , a poll has revealed .
The survey , carried out from 10am-10pm on Wednesday March 18 , asked : “ Do you agree with trade talks being cancelled due to coronavirus ?
” 8,835 people responded , with the vast majority , 86 percent ( 7,522 ) said “ no ” .
14 percent ( 1,234 people ) responded “ yes ” and thought the post-Brexit talks should be called off .
Less than one percent ( 79 people ) responded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It comes as British and EU officials agreed to postpone talks that were due to take place in London today .
Express.co.uk readers urged the Prime Minister to stick to the agreed deadline , and suggested the talks could be held via video link .
One person said : “ The UK voted to leave the EU in 2016 .
Since then both the UK Government and the EU have been in negotiations without any success .
“ We officially left the EU in January this year and have continued talking with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , still without success .
“ We have wasted enough time and billions of taxpayers money on these negotiations already .
“ Using the coronavirus as an excuse to delay talks is not necessary there are other ways to continue talks including video links.
” Another person wrote : “ The coronavirus is serious , and we need to do everything humanely possible to manage the situation .
However , life still goes on regardless of the epidemic .
“ The EU would be clapping their hands if we delay the transition , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to pay into the EU .
It would certainly help them with their deficit .
“ We need to pursue the path we ’ re already on , as the epidemic will ( hopefully ) fade before the end of the year and a level of normality resumes.
” A third person said : “ Have they not heard of video conference calling ?
Boris must not let us down !
” DO N'T MISS : Laura Kuenssberg admitted Brexit ‘ changed career forever ' [ COMMENT ] EU told to axe Brexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ INSIGHT ] British fishermen devastated in fear Brexit trade deal will be stalled [ DEVELOPED ] Another user agreed the talks could be held remotely , and wrote : “ What happened to working from home ?
“ In today 's technology you can converse without being in the same room .
“ I hope no money is being exchanged because of the delay , I ’ ll be livid.
” But a UK Government spokesman has insisted the December 31 transition period deadline would not be extended , highlighting that it @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Brexit: 'No intention’ of changing legislation says Johnson
Express.co.uk readers have urged Boris Johnson to continue post-Brexit trade talks with the EU despite the coronavirus pandemic, a poll has revealed. The survey, carried out from 10am-10pm on Wednesday March 18, asked: “Do you agree with trade talks being cancelled due to coronavirus?” 8,835 people responded, with the vast majority, 86 percent (7,522) said “no”.
14 percent (1,234 people) responded “yes” and thought the post-Brexit talks should be called off. Less than one percent (79 people) responded “don’t know”. It comes as British and EU officials agreed to postpone talks that were due to take place in London today. Express.co.uk readers urged the Prime Minister to stick to the agreed deadline, and suggested the talks could be held via video link.
Brexit news: Boris Johnson has been urged to continue the trade talks with the EU
Brexit news: The poll asked if readers agreed that the trade talks should be cancelled
One person said: “The UK voted to leave the EU in 2016. Since then both the UK Government and the EU have been in negotiations without any success. “We officially left the EU in January this year and have continued talking with the EU about a continued free trade deal, still without success. “We have wasted enough time and billions of taxpayers money on these negotiations already. “Using the coronavirus as an excuse to delay talks is not necessary there are other ways to continue talks including video links.” JUST IN: Sturgeon’s independence dream HALTED: Coronavirus postpones SNP plans
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Brexit news: The trade talks are due to finish at the end of the year
Another person wrote: “The coronavirus is serious, and we need to do everything humanely possible to manage the situation. However, life still goes on regardless of the epidemic. “The EU would be clapping their hands if we delay the transition, meaning that we’re still obliged to pay into the EU. It would certainly help them with their deficit. “We need to pursue the path we’re already on, as the epidemic will (hopefully) fade before the end of the year and a level of normality resumes.” A third person said: “Have they not heard of video conference calling? Boris must not let us down!” DON'T MISS:
Laura Kuenssberg admitted Brexit ‘changed career forever' [COMMENT]
EU told to axe Brexit transition as UK sparks anger over coronavirus [INSIGHT]
British fishermen devastated in fear Brexit trade deal will be stalled [DEVELOPED]
Boris Johnson has insisted the transition period will not be extended
The EU has offered to extend the trade talks
Another user agreed the talks could be held remotely, and wrote: “What happened to working from home? “In today's technology you can converse without being in the same room. “I hope no money is being exchanged because of the delay, I’ll be livid.” But a UK Government spokesman has insisted the December 31 transition period deadline would not be extended, highlighting that it was “enshrined in law”.
Coronavirus UK: The death toll exceeded 100 on Wednesday
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-03-18--Eviction crackdown: Coronavirus outbreak sees landlords stopped from kicking out tenants

Landlords will be blocked from kicking out people who can not pay their rent because of job losses or having to look after their children for three months .
The sweeping new powers were announced as the government came under pressure to give hard-pressed workers breathing space during the crisis .
Boris Johnson and Chancellor Rishi Sunak had already promised a three-month mortgage holiday for homeowners .
Coronavirus mortgage holiday : What does it mean for private renters ?
Universal Credit : Can it be used for rental payments Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick also revealed yesterday that buy-to-let mortgages would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He said : “ The Government is clear – no renter who has lost income due to coronavirus will be forced out of their home , nor will any landlord face unmanageable debts .
“ These are extraordinary times and renters and landlords alike are of course worried about paying their rent and mortgage .
“ Which is why we are urgently introducing emergency legislation to protect tenants in social and private accommodation from an eviction process being started .
“ These changes will protect all renters and private landlords ensuring everyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very difficult time.
” The Ministry of Housing , Communities and Local Government said that at the end of the three-month cover period landlords and tenants will be expected to “ work together ” to establish an affordable repayment plan , taking into account tenants ’ individual circumstances .

Landlords will be blocked from kicking out people who cannot pay their rent because of job losses or having to look after their children for three months. The sweeping new powers were announced as the government came under pressure to give hard-pressed workers breathing space during the crisis. Boris Johnson and Chancellor Rishi Sunak had already promised a three-month mortgage holiday for homeowners.
Coronavirus mortgage holiday: What does it mean for private renters?
Universal Credit: Can it be used for rental payments
Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick also revealed yesterday that buy-to-let mortgages would be covered by the 12-week payment hiatus.
He said: “The Government is clear – no renter who has lost income due to coronavirus will be forced out of their home, nor will any landlord face unmanageable debts.
“These are extraordinary times and renters and landlords alike are of course worried about paying their rent and mortgage.
“Which is why we are urgently introducing emergency legislation to protect tenants in social and private accommodation from an eviction process being started.
“These changes will protect all renters and private landlords ensuring everyone gets the support they need at this very difficult time.”
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said that at the end of the three-month cover period landlords and tenants will be expected to “work together” to establish an affordable repayment plan, taking into account tenants’ individual circumstances.


thedailyexpress--2020-03-18--Brexit DELAY: Labour MP pushes for extension due to coronavirus chaos

Mr Streeting tweeted a Government statement confirming the delay of the latest round of talks , which also reaffirmed the commitment of `` both sides '' to the negotiation process .
He commented : `` This is not a sustainable position . ''
He subsequently responded to a post by HMRC which referred to the reintroduction of border controls in January 2021 , posting : `` The idea that businesses should be contending with this in the current crisis exposes the utter stupidity of pretending that the transition period won ’ t need to be extended .
Labour MP for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Streeting earlier this month , tweeting : `` The government ca n't negotiate the future of Britain 's trade with the EU in a few months during what could well become a global coronavirus pandemic .
“ Boris Johnson needs to swallow his pride and put the national interest first .
`` That means agreeing an extension with the EU.
” During a sparsely attended PMQs today , Prime Minister Boris Johnson was pushed about whether a one-year extension could be sought for the UK 's Brexit implementation process in the light @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Stephen Farry ( North Down ) said : `` Defeating the coronavirus must be the top , indeed the only priority , for the forseeable future .
`` There 's already huge anxiety across the UK , businesses are facing unprecedented challenge and uncertainty .
READ MORE : 'Every man for himself ! '
How coronavirus pandemic has exposed bloc '' So regardless of Leave or Remain , how quickly will the Prime Minister recognise the inevitable and seek at least a one-year extension to the Brexit implementation process ? ''
Mr Johnson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal with the coronavirus epidemic and the other matter that he mentions has already , as he will know , been legislated for . ''
The statement referred to by Mr Streeting , which was issued yesterday , said : `` In light of the latest guidance on coronavirus , we will not formally be convening negotiating work strands tomorrow in the way we did in the previous round .
How to lose visceral fat : Best food to eat at breakfast to reduce the harmful belly fat [ STUDY ] Coronavirus : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you could use against the virus [ INSIGHT ] Heart attack symptoms : Three subtle signs of the deadly condition women should n't ignore [ TIPS ] “ We expect to share a draft FTA alongside the draft legal texts of a number of the standalone agreements in the near future still , as planned .
“ Both sides remain fully committed to the negotiations and we remain in regular contact with the European Commission to consider alternative ways to continue discussions , including looking at the possibility of video conferencing or conference @ @ @ @ @ @ @ structure for the coming weeks .
“ The transition period ends on 31 December 2020 .
This is enshrined in UK law.
” One group which remains vehemently opposed to the idea of extending the transition period is Moggmentum , the online campaign group launched five years ago in support of now-Leader of the House of Commons Jacob Rees-Mogg .
A tweet from its official account said : `` There is NO logical reason to want to delay # brexit further .
Not one .
`` The only people proposing this are people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the first place .

Brexit: 'No intention’ of changing legislation says Johnson
Mr Streeting tweeted a Government statement confirming the delay of the latest round of talks, which also reaffirmed the commitment of "both sides" to the negotiation process. He commented: "This is not a sustainable position." He subsequently responded to a post by HMRC which referred to the reintroduction of border controls in January 2021, posting: "The idea that businesses should be contending with this in the current crisis exposes the utter stupidity of pretending that the transition period won’t need to be extended.
Labour MP for Tottenham David Lammy made similar remarks to Mr Streeting earlier this month, tweeting: "The government can't negotiate the future of Britain's trade with the EU in a few months during what could well become a global coronavirus pandemic. “Boris Johnson needs to swallow his pride and put the national interest first. "That means agreeing an extension with the EU.”
Labour MP Wes Streeting
During a sparsely attended PMQs today, Prime Minister Boris Johnson was pushed about whether a one-year extension could be sought for the UK's Brexit implementation process in the light of the ongoing crisis. DUP MP Stephen Farry (North Down) said: "Defeating the coronavirus must be the top, indeed the only priority, for the forseeable future. "There's already huge anxiety across the UK, businesses are facing unprecedented challenge and uncertainty. READ MORE: 'Every man for himself!' How coronavirus pandemic has exposed bloc
Wes Streeting's reply to the HMRC tweet
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Brexit: Streeting says he will back deal ‘when HELL FREEZES'
David Lammy MP
“We expect to share a draft FTA alongside the draft legal texts of a number of the standalone agreements in the near future still, as planned. “Both sides remain fully committed to the negotiations and we remain in regular contact with the European Commission to consider alternative ways to continue discussions, including looking at the possibility of video conferencing or conference calls, and exploring flexibility in the structure for the coming weeks. “The transition period ends on 31 December 2020. This is enshrined in UK law.”
Coronavirus: Jeremy Vine guest debates delaying Brexit
Brexit timetable
One group which remains vehemently opposed to the idea of extending the transition period is Moggmentum, the online campaign group launched five years ago in support of now-Leader of the House of Commons Jacob Rees-Mogg. A tweet from its official account said: "There is NO logical reason to want to delay #brexit further. Not one. "The only people proposing this are people who never wanted us to leave in the first place.
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"The transition will end at the end of the year and we will either have a FTA or the EU will have chosen WTO over it." A legal expert told Express.co.uk on Saturday: "The EU has 350m people and massive bureaucracies of officials in Brussels and member states to draw on to get the negotiation over the line. "It’s absurd to think that a few people either being ill or fearing getting ill prevents anything. It clearly doesn’t. "It may prevent all sorts of other things, but not the negotiations and it doesn’t amount to an obstacle to achieving the “best endeavours” outcome the EU is obliged to achieve under article 184 of the Withdrawal Agreement."


thedailyexpress--2020-03-18--Germany lockdown: Coronavirus pandemic shows bloc's flaws 'Every man for himself!'

Germany 's Chancellor Angela Merkel this evening confirmed it was shutting its borders , two days after Ursula von der Leyen , President of the European Commission , announced new rules on Monday which only EU residents , family members and essential staff – healthcare workers and medical experts – would be exempt from .
Prior to Mrs von der Leyen 's announcement , many of the 26 countries which are signatories to Schengen , including 21 of the 22 members of the EU itself , have closed their borders , in clear breaches of the agreement .
One UK-based @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The EU isn ’ t able to deal with systemic events – COVID-19 is something it is ill-equipped to do and is being handled back at member state level .
`` It ’ s every man for himself behaviour that ’ s going on .
`` You aren ’ t seeing US states behave in this way in relation to each other .
`` It ’ s being handled at Federal level .
What we ’ re seeing is how little real integration has been truly achieved within the EU .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trading benefits of a level of integration that just hasn ’ t happened . ''
Daniel Kawczynski , Tory MP for Shrewsbury and Atcham , added : `` It shows clearly that those seeking to create a new supranational state have not solidified the project enough for major crisis and run the risk now of individual nations not seeing any substantive benefits from membership .
`` Any cooperative of this kind needs to demonstrate value add and it ’ s now make or break time for this 60-year-old project as to whether or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which I sincerely believe it can ’ t , but time will tell .
JUST IN : PMQs LOCKDOWN : Boris joined by Corbyn and only 15 MPs '' The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development will play a key role in helping our continent off her knees after virus has passed .
`` We need a sensible person to run it and the contest for new Head coming up shortly .
`` We need someone who is very pro-English as its head .
DO N'T MISS John McDonnell accused of coronavirus 'risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Coronavirus shock : EU ’ s fatal flaw that leaves them ‘ hamstrung ’ [ REVEALED ] Coronavirus pandemic could last YEARS , health expert warns Government [ VIDEO ] '' What better person than Tad Koscinski , Polish Finance Minister , the Polish nominee , who was born and raised in Clapham , London , and has a home there still and is a very strong Anglophile who loves England . ''
Speaking on Monday , Ms von der Leyen said : “ We need to do more to reduce huge pressure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know that everything that reduces social interaction also reduces the spread of the virus .
The less travel , the more we can contain the virus . ''
Ms von der Leyen confirmed UK citizens are exempt from the measures as Britain is still in the Brexit transition period .
She said : “ UK citizens are European citizens - there are no restrictions for UK citizens to travel to the continent.
” She also urged the four EU states on the continent which ( like the UK ) are not signatories to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , adding : “ These measures are effective only when they are coordinated . ''

Coronavirus: Von der Leyen bans ‘non-essential’ travel to EU
Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel this evening confirmed it was shutting its borders, two days after Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, announced new rules on Monday which only EU residents, family members and essential staff – healthcare workers and medical experts – would be exempt from. Prior to Mrs von der Leyen's announcement, many of the 26 countries which are signatories to Schengen, including 21 of the 22 members of the EU itself, have closed their borders, in clear breaches of the agreement. One UK-based expert in EU law told Express.co.uk: "The EU isn’t able to deal with systemic events – COVID-19 is something it is ill-equipped to do and is being handled back at member state level.
"It’s every man for himself behaviour that’s going on. "You aren’t seeing US states behave in this way in relation to each other. "It’s being handled at Federal level. What we’re seeing is how little real integration has been truly achieved within the EU.
Ursula von der Leyen, European Commission President
"They’re wanting the currency and trading benefits of a level of integration that just hasn’t happened." Daniel Kawczynski, Tory MP for Shrewsbury and Atcham, added: "It shows clearly that those seeking to create a new supranational state have not solidified the project enough for major crisis and run the risk now of individual nations not seeing any substantive benefits from membership. "Any cooperative of this kind needs to demonstrate value add and it’s now make or break time for this 60-year-old project as to whether or not it can deliver in 2020s - which I sincerely believe it can’t, but time will tell. JUST IN: PMQs LOCKDOWN: Boris joined by Corbyn and only 15 MPs
President Emmanuel Macron delivers his live address
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Italy is the hardest hit country in Europe
"What better person than Tad Koscinski, Polish Finance Minister, the Polish nominee, who was born and raised in Clapham, London, and has a home there still and is a very strong Anglophile who loves England." Speaking on Monday, Ms von der Leyen said: “We need to do more to reduce huge pressure on our healthcare system. "We know that everything that reduces social interaction also reduces the spread of the virus. The less travel, the more we can contain the virus."
Schengen is the EU's common travel area
Ms von der Leyen confirmed UK citizens are exempt from the measures as Britain is still in the Brexit transition period. She said: “UK citizens are European citizens - there are no restrictions for UK citizens to travel to the continent.” She also urged the four EU states on the continent which (like the UK) are not signatories to Schengen to implement the restrictions as well, adding: “These measures are effective only when they are coordinated."
Countries banned from US travel
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