thedailyexpress--2020-08-20--Brexit shock: Boris Johnson’s trade deal shares MAJOR similarity with no-deal Brexit

The meeting commenced the seventh round of post-Brexit trade talks between the UK and EU .
Rod McKenzie , managing director of policy and public affairs at the Road Haulage Association , said the transported goods industry was “ going through a groundhog day ” .
Mr McKenzie referred to the period just before the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement was reached with Brussels last year .
He said : `` The government does n't seem to have learned the lessons from what could have been a cliff-edge Brexit in October last year . ''
The Government has now indicated that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there is a trade deal or not .
On Monday , Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said : “ Regardless of the outcome of the negotiations , there will be changes for which UK businesses trading with the EU need to prepare.
” He added : `` This will be an important moment of change , and there is at least initially a risk of some additional friction at the border . ''
The plan is based on the possibility that congestion in the southeast of England could last throughout the first half of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a set of customs controls for goods entering the UK to July next year .
It said the decision was taken to give businesses more time to prepare .
French authorities plan to “ impose full EU customs and controlled goods checks on all goods travelling from GB to the EU ’ s customs territory at Hauts-de-France ” according to Mr Shapps .
Ministers hoped the Brexit transition period would provide time for Businesses to prepare .
But the coronavirus pandemic has changed the situation dramatically .

Brexit: EU is ‘scared of no deal’ insists political expert
Brexit talks in Brussels resumed this week as disputes over British lorry divers’ access to the EU has stalled progress. Britain’s chief Brexit negotiator, David Frost, met with his EU counterparts earlier this week.
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The meeting commenced the seventh round of post-Brexit trade talks between the UK and EU. Rod McKenzie, managing director of policy and public affairs at the Road Haulage Association, said the transported goods industry was “going through a groundhog day”. Mr McKenzie referred to the period just before the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement was reached with Brussels last year. He said: "The government doesn't seem to have learned the lessons from what could have been a cliff-edge Brexit in October last year."
Boris Johnson’s trade deal with the EU is similar to a no deal Brexit according to experts
Brexit talks in Brussels resumed this week
The Government has now indicated that the UK will need a similar preparation whether there is a trade deal or not. On Monday, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “Regardless of the outcome of the negotiations, there will be changes for which UK businesses trading with the EU need to prepare.” He added: "This will be an important moment of change, and there is at least initially a risk of some additional friction at the border." The plan is based on the possibility that congestion in the southeast of England could last throughout the first half of 2021. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: Frost leads 50 Brexiteers into fishing showdown
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David Frost met with his EU counterparts earlier this week
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps
The Government has postponed plans for a set of customs controls for goods entering the UK to July next year. It said the decision was taken to give businesses more time to prepare. French authorities plan to “impose full EU customs and controlled goods checks on all goods travelling from GB to the EU’s customs territory at Hauts-de-France” according to Mr Shapps. Ministers hoped the Brexit transition period would provide time for Businesses to prepare. But the coronavirus pandemic has changed the situation dramatically.
Boris Johnson has chosen not to extend the Brexit transition period


thedailyexpress--2020-08-20--Rail fare fury: Ministers facing demands to axe price hike

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Passengers will be hit by a 1.6 percent rise in season ticket prices from January unless the government steps in .
The cap on the annual rise in most regulated fares is pegged to the July 's inflation rate .
Critics warned the increase will force more people into cars and push them into continuing to work from home despite government efforts to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rail fares rise : When will rail fares go up ?
The government is understood to be considering delaying the 2021 rise due to low passenger numbers .
But watchdog Transport Focus has called for a fare freeze and changes to ticketing following the collapse in demand caused by the coronavirus pandemic .
Chief executive Anthony Smith said a system that fits `` the way we live and travel now '' is needed , including flexible season tickets , carnet-style tickets and `` better value for money fares across the board '' .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Campaign for Better Transport , said : `` The rail fare rise will do nothing to restore people 's faith in the railways .
`` The Government must do more than just pay lip service to encouraging people to take public transport , it must now also provide the financial incentives to do so.
” The annual rise in most regulated fares is linked to the previous July 's Retail Prices Index ( RPI ) measure of inflation , which was announced yesterday by the Office for National Statistics .

Rail fare increases slammed by Bolton-based commuter
Passengers will be hit by a 1.6 percent rise in season ticket prices from January unless the government steps in. The cap on the annual rise in most regulated fares is pegged to the July's inflation rate. Critics warned the increase will force more people into cars and push them into continuing to work from home despite government efforts to encourage workers back to the office.
The government is understood to be considering delaying the 2021 rise due to low passenger numbers. But watchdog Transport Focus has called for a fare freeze and changes to ticketing following the collapse in demand caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Chief executive Anthony Smith said a system that fits "the way we live and travel now" is needed, including flexible season tickets, carnet-style tickets and "better value for money fares across the board". Darren Shirley, chief executive of the Campaign for Better Transport, said: "The rail fare rise will do nothing to restore people's faith in the railways. "The Government must do more than just pay lip service to encouraging people to take public transport, it must now also provide the financial incentives to do so.” The annual rise in most regulated fares is linked to the previous July's Retail Prices Index (RPI) measure of inflation, which was announced yesterday by the Office for National Statistics.
Passengers could be hit by a 1.6 percent rise in season ticket prices from January
It means commuters between Brighton to London will be hit by an increase of £80 to £5,060, while Barrow-in-Furness to Preston will rise by £69 to £4,353 and Edinburgh to Glasgow by £67 to £4,267. Unregulated fares, including advance and peak long-distance tickets, can be increased at the discretion of train companies. Department for Transport figures show car use has nearly returned to pre-pandemic levels, but rail travel is below a third of what it was before the crisis despite lockdown restrictions easing. Taxpayers already face a £3.5 billion bill for propping up train companies during the crisis. Conservative Huw Merriman, chairman of the Commons Transport select Committee, said the system needs to be reformed to be made to deal with the change in commuter working patterns.
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thedailyexpress--2020-08-20--Exam crisis continues: Hancock pleads 'unprecedented circumstances' as anger grows

Matt Hancock backed Education Secretary Gavin Williamson to sort out the scramble for university places and ensure pupils return to school next month .
He defended his embattled colleague amid growing calls for an inquiry into the “ shambles ” of the Government grading u-turn .
Mr Williamson caved in earlier this week to allow teacher ’ s predicted grades to be used as the final result for A-levels and GCSE following an outcry over a computer algorithm that downgraded marks for hundreds of thousands of youngsters .
Universities yesterday pleaded for Government to fund extra places on courses following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ u-turn .
And teaching unions demanded a public inquiry into the fiasco .
But Mr Hancock , the Health Secretary , insisted the Education Secretary had been trying to do his best for youngsters in the “ very difficult circumstances ” after exams were cancelled by the coronavirus lockdown .
“ These are unprecedented circumstances and I think everybody is working their hardest and trying to do their best in very difficult circumstances , and I know that is true of Gavin Williamson as it is of all members of the Government , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The big focus is on getting schools back and open at the start of next month , an incredibly important task .
“ I don ’ t think we should be distracted from that task now .
We need to absolutely focus on it.
” Mr Hancock said ministers were working to resolve pressure over university places amid calls for the cap on medical school students to be lifted .
“ We ’ re doing everything that we can and we ’ re working on this issue right now .
I acknowledge the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” he said .
A senior Tory MP last night signalled that Mr Williamson had to ensure schools fully reopen next month to keep his job .
Former children ’ s minister Tim Loughton said : “ It ’ s absolutely essential that we have strong leadership from the Department for Education ( DFE ) and very clear guidance about how schools get back on track after the chaos of the last five months .
“ There is absolutely no excuse for any school not pulling out all the stops to get all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ needs to be very tough questions asked if that is not the case .
“ It is really essential for the DFE to regain control of the agenda in the interests of our children.
” The joint general secretaries of the National Education Union ( NEU ) yesterday wrote to Mr Williamson to demand significant changes to exams in 2021 to ensure the process which “ failed ” A-level students never happens again .
Dr Mary Bousted and Kevin Courtney said the controversy around last week ’ s A-level results “ must never @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to prepare for new spikes in coronavirus that could lead to “ further loss of schooling ” .
In the letter to Mr Williamson , they said : “ It is clear to the National Education Union that Government needs to make much bigger changes to next year ’ s exams in order to build confidence that the grades awarded , upon which young people ’ s life chances are determined , properly recognise and reward their achievements .
“ You should be working , now , to examine different possible scenarios and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further school and college closures.
” The NEU leaders said the Government should reduce the amount of content assessed in next year ’ s exams and should commission an independent review into the assessment methods for GCSEs and A-levels .
Dr Simon Hyde , general secretary of the Headmasters ’ and Headmistresses ’ Conference ( HMC ) , which represents 296 leading private schools , has called for a public inquiry into the “ shambles ” of the 2020 exams .
He said : “ It is vital that lessons are learnt to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ We are worried about the effect of this mess on students taking their A-levels and GCSEs in 2021 ; they must return to school knowing that there is a sensible and ethical system in place if their exams have to be cancelled.
” He added : “ In particular , we need to understand why important decisions were taken once exams were cancelled to try and use statistics to predict every individual student ’ s grade in every subject , and how much emphasis was put on fairness for every young @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the trust put in teachers and how their centre assessed grades were used .
”

Gavin Williamson avoids question of resignation over u-turn
Matt Hancock backed Education Secretary Gavin Williamson to sort out the scramble for university places and ensure pupils return to school next month. He defended his embattled colleague amid growing calls for an inquiry into the “shambles” of the Government grading u-turn. Mr Williamson caved in earlier this week to allow teacher’s predicted grades to be used as the final result for A-levels and GCSE following an outcry over a computer algorithm that downgraded marks for hundreds of thousands of youngsters.
Universities yesterday pleaded for Government to fund extra places on courses following a surge in demand caused by the u-turn. And teaching unions demanded a public inquiry into the fiasco. But Mr Hancock, the Health Secretary, insisted the Education Secretary had been trying to do his best for youngsters in the “very difficult circumstances” after exams were cancelled by the coronavirus lockdown. “These are unprecedented circumstances and I think everybody is working their hardest and trying to do their best in very difficult circumstances, and I know that is true of Gavin Williamson as it is of all members of the Government,” the Health Secretary said. “The big focus is on getting schools back and open at the start of next month, an incredibly important task. “I don’t think we should be distracted from that task now. We need to absolutely focus on it.”
Health Secretary Matt Hancock
Mr Hancock said ministers were working to resolve pressure over university places amid calls for the cap on medical school students to be lifted. “We’re doing everything that we can and we’re working on this issue right now. I acknowledge the issue, I absolutely recognise it,” he said. A senior Tory MP last night signalled that Mr Williamson had to ensure schools fully reopen next month to keep his job. Former children’s minister Tim Loughton said: “It’s absolutely essential that we have strong leadership from the Department for Education (DFE) and very clear guidance about how schools get back on track after the chaos of the last five months. “There is absolutely no excuse for any school not pulling out all the stops to get all its pupils back in September. There needs to be very tough questions asked if that is not the case. “It is really essential for the DFE to regain control of the agenda in the interests of our children.”
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The joint general secretaries of the National Education Union (NEU) yesterday wrote to Mr Williamson to demand significant changes to exams in 2021 to ensure the process which “failed” A-level students never happens again. Dr Mary Bousted and Kevin Courtney said the controversy around last week’s A-level results “must never happen again” and urged the minister to prepare for new spikes in coronavirus that could lead to “further loss of schooling”. In the letter to Mr Williamson, they said: “It is clear to the National Education Union that Government needs to make much bigger changes to next year’s exams in order to build confidence that the grades awarded, upon which young people’s life chances are determined, properly recognise and reward their achievements. “You should be working, now, to examine different possible scenarios and to develop contingency plans in case of further school and college closures.” The NEU leaders said the Government should reduce the amount of content assessed in next year’s exams and should commission an independent review into the assessment methods for GCSEs and A-levels.
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson
Dr Simon Hyde, general secretary of the Headmasters’ and Headmistresses’ Conference (HMC), which represents 296 leading private schools, has called for a public inquiry into the “shambles” of the 2020 exams. He said: “It is vital that lessons are learnt to avoid making the same mistakes next year. “We are worried about the effect of this mess on students taking their A-levels and GCSEs in 2021; they must return to school knowing that there is a sensible and ethical system in place if their exams have to be cancelled.” He added: “In particular, we need to understand why important decisions were taken once exams were cancelled to try and use statistics to predict every individual student’s grade in every subject, and how much emphasis was put on fairness for every young person. “There are fundamental questions about the trust put in teachers and how their centre assessed grades were used.”


thedailyexpress--2020-08-20--UK's secret Brexit weapon: EU humbled by '£20tn Anglophone Alliance' - 'No contest!'

Ray Bassett said the UK 's departure has dragged the bloc 's annual GDP down by almost £3trillion - money which if added to the US total of just over £14.6trillion for 2020 , according to the IMF 's website , plus Canada 's of £1.6trillion , comes in at £20.7trillion .
In 2020 , the entire GDP for the EU was just over £14.8trillion - but this would drop to less than £12trillion without the UK .
Mr Bassett , Ireland 's former ambassador to Canada , Jamaica and the Bahamas , and an advocate of a so-called Irexit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a trade bloc encompassing the UK , the US and Canada in his new book , Ireland and the EU Post Brexit .
Asked about the financial clout of such a body compared with the EU , Mr Bassett told Express.co.uk : `` There is no contest . ''
Sir David Frost would be well aware of such considerations , Mr Bassett said .
He added : `` The prospect of an 'Anglophone Alliance ' is always there in the background .
`` Sometimes in negotiations it is better to leave it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too overt on the matter .
`` It is up to Frost whether he needs to spell it out or just hint at it . ''
JUST IN : Keir Starmer crisis - poll will worry Labour as Boris extends his lead Looking beyond Brexit , Mr Bassett said : `` Both the EU and UK will be separately discussing future trade arrangements .
`` But the UK has much better political , security and historical connections with North America which should smooth the way to a deal . ''
In his book @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be a member of such an alliance , warning it faces increasing marginalisation in a bloc in which it would be the only country which had English as its first language .
DO N'T MISS Varadkar condemned : PM 's last-ditch bid to cling to power [ INSIGHT ] Leo Varadkar ’ s true disappointment exposed in leaked emails [ OPINION ] Really , Leo ?
Varadkar to make OUTRAGEOUS demand in bid to cling on [ COMMENT ] He adds : `` While US relations with the UK are likely to warm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the same can not be said for EU-US relations , which have been under strain since President Trump was elected in the USA in 2016 .
`` Ireland has a huge interest in maintaining harmonious relations between Brussels and Washington .
`` However , it is doubtful if Ireland 's interest will be a major consideration for the EU Commission and its relations with Washington .
`` It will be primarily concerned with bigger ticket items , like German car exports and that country 's investment in the USA . ''
With specific @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added : `` In recent years and particularly so since the admission of post-communist European States , the English language has become dominant within the EU , paradoxically the lingua franca .
`` However , in a post-Brexit EU with only five million native English speakers in the Republic of Ireland , the English language will no longer have as strong a case to be the dominant language of the institutions . ''

UK-US trade deal: Trump has ‘bigger fish to fry’ says expert
Ray Bassett said the UK's departure has dragged the bloc's annual GDP down by almost £3trillion - money which if added to the US total of just over £14.6trillion for 2020, according to the IMF's website, plus Canada's of £1.6trillion, comes in at £20.7trillion. In 2020, the entire GDP for the EU was just over £14.8trillion - but this would drop to less than £12trillion without the UK.
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There is no contest Ray Bassett
Mr Bassett, Ireland's former ambassador to Canada, Jamaica and the Bahamas, and an advocate of a so-called Irexit modelled on Brexit, outlines the benefits of a trade bloc encompassing the UK, the US and Canada in his new book, Ireland and the EU Post Brexit. Asked about the financial clout of such a body compared with the EU, Mr Bassett told Express.co.uk: "There is no contest." Sir David Frost would be well aware of such considerations, Mr Bassett said.
David Frost and Michel Barnier resumed negotiations this week
Prime Minister Boris Johnson
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He added: "The prospect of an 'Anglophone Alliance' is always there in the background. "Sometimes in negotiations it is better to leave it in the shadows and not to be too overt on the matter. "It is up to Frost whether he needs to spell it out or just hint at it." JUST IN: Keir Starmer crisis - poll will worry Labour as Boris extends his lead
US President Donald Trump has suggested he would like to see a trade deal between the UK and the US
Looking beyond Brexit, Mr Bassett said: "Both the EU and UK will be separately discussing future trade arrangements. "But the UK has much better political, security and historical connections with North America which should smooth the way to a deal." In his book, Mr Bassett suggests Ireland needs to be a member of such an alliance, warning it faces increasing marginalisation in a bloc in which it would be the only country which had English as its first language. DON'T MISS
Varadkar condemned: PM's last-ditch bid to cling to power [INSIGHT]
Leo Varadkar’s true disappointment exposed in leaked emails [OPINION]
Really, Leo? Varadkar to make OUTRAGEOUS demand in bid to cling on [COMMENT]
Michel Barnier is the EU's Brexit negotiator
David Frost is leading the negotiations for the UK
He adds: "While US relations with the UK are likely to warm considerably in the next few years, the same cannot be said for EU-US relations, which have been under strain since President Trump was elected in the USA in 2016. "Ireland has a huge interest in maintaining harmonious relations between Brussels and Washington. "However, it is doubtful if Ireland's interest will be a major consideration for the EU Commission and its relations with Washington.
Brexit timeline
"It will be primarily concerned with bigger ticket items, like German car exports and that country's investment in the USA." With specific reference to the language question, he added: "In recent years and particularly so since the admission of post-communist European States, the English language has become dominant within the EU, paradoxically the lingua franca. "However, in a post-Brexit EU with only five million native English speakers in the Republic of Ireland, the English language will no longer have as strong a case to be the dominant language of the institutions."
Mr Bassett suggested the UK's special relationship with the US put it at an advantage


thedailyexpress--2020-08-21--Brexit row erupts between No10 and Scotland as SNP ramps up pressure on fishing talks

Fergus Ewing MSP , Scotland ’ s Rural Economy Secretary said he had seen repeated requests from the Scottish Government to participate in international negotiations on fishing denied .
Part of the controversy surrounds the UK Government ’ s Fisheries Bill , which creates the powers for the UK to operate as an independent coastal state and manage its fish stocks sustainably outside the EU is currently in process .
The Bill , which finished its passage through Parliament on July 1 , ends current automatic rights for EU vessels to fish in British waters .
If access to UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Westminster says the Bill will also enable the Fisheries Administrations to ensure that foreign vessels follow the same rules as UK vessels .
But Speaking to Holyrood ’ s Rural Economy and Connectivity Committee yesterday , Mr Ewing warned the UK Government denying Holyrood in negotiations would be detrimental .
He added : “ We have requested that we be fully involved , our officials have been to some extent .
“ The risk is that unless they are to the fuller extent , that we would normally enjoy in the annual round @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vital negotiations with Norway , Faroes and Iceland , then there is the risk that decisions are taken without Scotland ’ s position being fully set out , expanded and advocated , leading to a potential detriment to Scotland.
” Mr Ewing warned the Bill would be poorer “ without our input ” and added : “ This input of Scottish Expertise and knowledge has improved the bill from its original draft .
“ We are as prepared as we can be for the end of the transition period .
“ I ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the Scottish Parliament , the necessary powers and tools to do that in a way that respects Devolution.
” READ MORE : Furious Westminster MPs turn on own party with internal rift He concluded of Brexit : “ The failure of the UK government to seek an extension to the Brexit transition period is reckless and is creating unhelpful cliff edges on a host of policy matters including fisheries .
“ However , we have been clear that as a responsible government , we will work on a four-nation basis so we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the end of the transition period.
” The Bill recently made its way through the House of Lords with Lord Gardiner making clear the legislation will give the UK an opportunity to develop a vibrant and sustainable fishing industry .
It will give the UK the power to strengthen protection of the marine environment , whilst providing a healthy and valuable food source to millions of people , he added .
DO N'T MISS : Sturgeon celebrates skyrocketing poll as PM on alert [ LATEST ] Sturgeon blasted for 'failing tourism industry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ angers Boris after key Brexit plan snubbed [ INSIGHT ] The Government is now considering carefully the amendments made during the Bill ’ s passage in the House of Lords .
The latest round of Brexit talks is currently in session this week amid fears of a deadlock , with both sides admitting after the last round of negotiations in London last month that they remained some way off a trade agreement .
After those talks , the EU 's chief negotiator Mr Barnier said a deal looked `` at this point unlikely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rights and competition rules .
It comes just weeks after Humza Yousaf , Scottish Justice Secretary called for an urgent four nation ministerial meeting on fisheries and maritime security after being excluded from the UK Government ’ s Brexit preparation talks .

Brexit: Ewing says lack of transition period extension is 'reckless'
Fergus Ewing MSP, Scotland’s Rural Economy Secretary said he had seen repeated requests from the Scottish Government to participate in international negotiations on fishing denied. Part of the controversy surrounds the UK Government’s Fisheries Bill, which creates the powers for the UK to operate as an independent coastal state and manage its fish stocks sustainably outside the EU is currently in process.
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The Bill, which finished its passage through Parliament on July 1, ends current automatic rights for EU vessels to fish in British waters. If access to UK waters for foreign vessels is negotiated, Westminster says the Bill will also enable the Fisheries Administrations to ensure that foreign vessels follow the same rules as UK vessels. But Speaking to Holyrood’s Rural Economy and Connectivity Committee yesterday, Mr Ewing warned the UK Government denying Holyrood in negotiations would be detrimental. He added: “We have requested that we be fully involved, our officials have been to some extent.
Fergus Ewing made Scotland's feelings clear on UK fisheries
The latest round of Brexit are currently taking place
“The risk is that unless they are to the fuller extent, that we would normally enjoy in the annual round of negotiations in Brussels and also the vital negotiations with Norway, Faroes and Iceland, then there is the risk that decisions are taken without Scotland’s position being fully set out, expanded and advocated, leading to a potential detriment to Scotland.” Mr Ewing warned the Bill would be poorer “without our input” and added: “This input of Scottish Expertise and knowledge has improved the bill from its original draft. “We are as prepared as we can be for the end of the transition period. “I’m confident this bill gives Scottish Ministers and the Scottish Parliament, the necessary powers and tools to do that in a way that respects Devolution.” READ MORE: Furious Westminster MPs turn on own party with internal rift
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Scotland has previously called for an extension to the transition period
He concluded of Brexit: “The failure of the UK government to seek an extension to the Brexit transition period is reckless and is creating unhelpful cliff edges on a host of policy matters including fisheries. “However, we have been clear that as a responsible government, we will work on a four-nation basis so we are as prepared as we can be for the end of the transition period.” The Bill recently made its way through the House of Lords with Lord Gardiner making clear the legislation will give the UK an opportunity to develop a vibrant and sustainable fishing industry. It will give the UK the power to strengthen protection of the marine environment, whilst providing a healthy and valuable food source to millions of people, he added. DON'T MISS:
Sturgeon celebrates skyrocketing poll as PM on alert [LATEST]
Sturgeon blasted for 'failing tourism industry over anti-English row [REVEAL]
Scotland angers Boris after key Brexit plan snubbed [INSIGHT]
Nicola Sturgeon had previously written the UK government over the transition period
The Government is now considering carefully the amendments made during the Bill’s passage in the House of Lords. The latest round of Brexit talks is currently in session this week amid fears of a deadlock, with both sides admitting after the last round of negotiations in London last month that they remained some way off a trade agreement. After those talks, the EU's chief negotiator Mr Barnier said a deal looked "at this point unlikely" given the UK position on fishing rights and competition rules. It comes just weeks after Humza Yousaf, Scottish Justice Secretary called for an urgent four nation ministerial meeting on fisheries and maritime security after being excluded from the UK Government’s Brexit preparation talks.
Scottish Rural Affairs Secretary Fergus Ewing MSP discussed the matter at Holyrood


thedailyexpress--2020-08-21--Brexit LIVE: He still doesn't get it! Corbyn blames MPs for failure... NOT his EU policy

Mr Corbyn claimed during an interview , he was met with great hostility for his policies as leader .
In a further blow to the party , he indicated MPs within his own party did not want change thus hindering the chances of his policies .
He said in an interview with economist Grace Blakely : `` There are people in the Labour Party that don ’ t want change , that didn ’ t want that change . ''
Although he insisted some within his party did not want change and thus hindered the party 's progress , many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the party 's losses in the north and Midlands .
Boris Johnson has been warned his ambitious plan for a post-Brexit internal market in the UK will `` accelerate the break-up of the Union '' .
The Labour-led administration in Cardiff ripped apart the Prime Minister 's plan to pass legislation to underpin a new internal market between the four nations .
Wales issued the warning after it undertook a review of Mr Johnson 's Government 's white paper outlining the plans .
Jeremy Miles , Welsh Brexit minister , said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
In a letter to UK Business Secretary Alok Sharma , Mr Miles said : “ The Welsh Government is concerned that the long-term survival of the United Kingdom is under great strain and that the approach taken in the white paper will exacerbate those tensions in a way which , if not addressed , will accelerate the break-up of the Union . ''
Mr Miles hit out at the Prime Minister 's approach to the plan , saying his Government had shunned consultations with Cardiff , Holyrood and Stormont .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mutual recognition '' of goods in all corners of the UK .
This would allow the Westminster Government to unilaterally set food and environmental standards for Scotland and Wales .
Mr Miles tore apart the white paper on the plan , saying it was `` fundamentally flawed and misleading '' .
SEE BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES : Germany ’ s environment ministry has revealed the country spends €700 million each year cleaning up cigarettes and single-use plastics .
A study published by the VKU , the German association of local utilities , assessed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public funding were spent on litter .
Disposing of cigarette butts costs around €225 million , and takeaway plastic cups cost around €120 million a year .
Environment Minister Svenja Schulze said : `` It 's costing us all a lot of money because at the moment it 's only the local authorities which are bearing the cleanup costs in parks and streets and disposing of the litter .
“ I find it only fair that , in future , the burden of cleaning and disposing of the waste will be taken on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Emmanuel Macron have said they are ready to offer asylum to a Russian opposition activist after he was hospitalised .
Alexei Navalny is in a coma in a hospital following a suspected “ toxic poisoning ” , after he criticised Vladimir Putin for passing changes to Russia ’ s constitution on presidential terms in office .
The French President said along with the German Chancellor : `` We are obviously ready to give Navalny and his loved ones all the assistance they need in terms of health , asylum , protection .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ can be saved and we will provide all the support we are asked for in order to do that.
” Ms Merkel added : `` We would give him all assistance in terms of health , including in German hospitals , if that is wanted . ''
9.20pm update : EU 's plot to steal businesses from London flops in huge Brexit blow for Brussels European financial centres have failed to make the most of the UK ’ s departure from the bloc by seizing business opportunities from the City of London .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ considered one of the most likely candidates to take business from the London Stock Exchange ’ s LCH clearing division .
Its bosses , however , has said euro clearing had grown more slowly than forecast due to the coronavirus pandemic and delays in regulation changes .
They also said banks were reluctant to shift their business from London despite the continued uncertainty about the UK and EU ’ s future relationship .
Matthias Graulich , a board member at Eurex Clearing , said : “ There is a slower growth path than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ half of this year primary due to COVID-19 and its implications , but everything is going in the right direction to achieve our goals.
” 8.11pm update : Poland set to be a major problem for the EU Poland could be a huge problem for the EU 's continued integration plan , Labour MP Gisela Stuart has claimed .
Despite the EU agreeing the £677billion coronavirus rescue package , Ms Stuart noted Poland may be a future problem for Brussels .
She said : `` I have always thought two things ought to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Europe has to come up with a model of two kinds of memberships : one for euro members and one for non-euro members .
`` The euro countries have to deeply integrate , the other ones do n't .
`` Now , with the Recovery Fund , the EU is slowly edging to create debt .
`` And I think it is , in the long term , a necessary step if the EU wants to become a true federal state .
`` These are just the consequences of the single @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is an important step in the right direction . ''
7.05pm update : Frost now has upper hand over the EU for simple reason , says economist Britain now has the upper hand over the EU when it comes to trade deal talks - and UK negotiator David Frost can now turn up the heat on Brussels , an economist has suggested .
The seventh round of talks between Mr Frost and opposite number Michel Barnier got underway this week - and Mark Littlewood , director of London-based think tank the Institute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK will now go on the offensive .
He said : `` I think there is an opportunity for us to play hardball .
`` And the reason I say that is in essence the European Union 's only trade negotiation at the moment of any real importance is with the United Kingdom .
`` We are now at last playing the multi-dimensional chess we should have been playing from the outset . ''
Despite the aspect of a second wave of coronavirus striking the country , 46 percent of over-50s looking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their destination due to Brexit .
A further 44 percent are contemplating dropping their plans all together according to research from Canada Life today .
This in contrast to 37 percent who are concerned about COVID-19 and therefore , may not move .
5.26pm update : Jeremy Corbyn hits out over lack of support for Brexit policy Despite taking the party to humiliating defeat at the 2019 general election , Mr Corbyn has claimed he was not given adequate support by his MPs .
In the interview with a A World to Win @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was difficult , there 's no denying that .
`` There are people in the Labour Party that do n't want change , that did n't want that change .
`` I was faced by a great deal of hostility from the very beginning . ''
4.20pm update : Merkel and Macron square off in battle for Brussels Emmanuel Macron and Angela Merkel will hold showdown talks today as the European Union 's two most influential leaders try to maintain their stranglehold on the bloc - and Brexit is on the agenda .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chancellor at his medieval summer retreat to tackle the most pressing issues facing the Brussels project .
A German government source said : “ Both are aware that the EU is in a crucial period and that France and Germany – even though they have different views on lots of issues – have to stick together.
” A French official added : “ This visit is testimony to the exceptional level of Franco-German engagement on the bilateral , European and international level.
” The EU and UK have so far failed to agree @ @ @ @ @ @ @ areas of divergence , including fisheries .
Brussels 's chief negotiator , Michel Barnier has declared the EU will not allow European vessels to be excluded from British waters .
Expert on fisheries , professor Aaron Hatcher , said in a report that Denmark in particular is vulnerable in the case of a no deal Brexit .
He said : `` Denmark , for example , would find it impossible to catch its quotas of herring and mackerel if it could no longer fish in UK waters , with devastating consequences for its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU is determined that the current level of access be maintained , and it has stated this quite clearly . ''
A Norfolk farmer has has slammed Government plans to cut tariffs on imported sugar beet after the Brexit transition period .
Tony Bambridge , chairman of the NFU 's regional board for East Anglia , said the proposals would flood the UK with sugar which has been harvested by exploited workers .
He said : “ What the Government has decided , for some unusual reason , is to allow this significant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a tariff-free sugar quota from anywhere in the world , and there is no control over how it is produced .
It could be produced using labour exploitation or pesticide products that are illegal in the UK .
`` We are baffled as to why they would decide to do this .
“ We are talking about 260,000 tonnes of sugar , which is equivalent to a quarter of UK production .
`` Can you imagine if we lost a quarter of our production ?
That would be like losing one of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not just going to affect a couple of farmers , it is a whole supply chain.
” The EU has slapped down a British request for a migration pact that would allow the Government to send asylum seekers to other European nations , according to a report .
After the Brexit transition period ends on December 31 , Britain will lose the right to transfer refugees and migrants back to the EU county in which they arrived .
The UK is seeking to replicate the arrangement outside the bloc .
But EU negotiators @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Guardian .
Chairman of the European Fisheries Alliance ( EUFA ) Gerard van Balsfoort has claimed the arrangement which gives EU boats unfettered access to Britain 's rich fishing waters is `` balanced '' .
In comments likely to infuriate Leave voters , Mr van Balsfoort said any `` upset '' to the current rules should be avoided .
He met with EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier in Brussels to discuss the ongoing trade talks .
Following the meeting , Mr van Balsfoort said : `` The next few months be defining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , their communities and the value chain linked to fisheries across the EU and we hope that the European Union will continue to take a strong position to protect their future . ''
He added : “ The current system strikes a fragile but necessary balance between sustainable management of fish stocks , the prosperity of EU and UK fleets and the thousands of jobs in our coastal communities .
`` We should build upon this basis as any upset to this balance will have very real consequences for many livelihoods across the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the main sticking points in post-Brexit trade talks .
12.01pm update : Brexit trade talks : Where do we stand on UK-EU trade talks ?
Brexit talks resumed for the seventh round on Wednesday , as Brussels and the UK work to reach a post-Brexit deal on all elements of future relations .
So where do we stand on UK-EU trade talks now ?
Sugar beet farmers in the UK have hit out at the Government 's proposals for slahsed tariffs on imported cane sugar after December 31 .
The proposal is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Quota ( ATQ ) for raw sugar coming into the country after the end of the Brexit transition period .
Around half of the sugar consumed by Britons hails from farms in the UK , mainly in East Anglia and the East Midlands .
British growers fear the proposal will make way for the market to be flooded with sugar grown in foreign lands where food and worker standards are significantly lower .
NFU sugar board chairman Michael Slys urged the Government to `` urgently review this tariff '' .
He called the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unnecessary '' .
9.58am update : Ex-Brexit Party MEP thanks 'sneering Eurocrats for making Brexit possible ' Former Brexit Party MEP Rupert Lowe has said chief Eurocrat Guy Verhofstadt was a `` gift to Eurosceptics '' due to his anti-Brexit rhetoric .
Mr Lowe said : Every syllable Guy Verhofstadt uttered gifted the Brexit Party a 1,000 votes .
`` He was a gift to Eurosceptics and I 'll be forever grateful to him and his fellow sneering Eurocrats who made Brexit possible .
`` I 'll be raising a glass to him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Brexit setback : Brussels not 'significantly worried ' at prospect of no UK trade deal Brexit negotiations have not been moving forward as the European Union is not `` significantly worried '' about the UK refusing to give in to its `` painful '' demands , it has been claimed .
King 's College academic Jonathan Portes suggested Brussels is now waiting for London to agree to major concessions as he noted the bloc does not appear `` significantly concerned '' at the prospect of a no-deal scenario .
Speaking to CNBC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know what the outline of a possible deal looks like , the question is whether either side feels they have the political space to make the necessary compromises and concessions . ''
`` And given that the UK is clearly the weaker negotiating partner , the ball is really in the UK 's court as far as the EU is concerned .
`` They are not sufficiently worried about the consequences of a no deal to make those concessions first . ''
Trade minister Liz Truss has reclassified recent meetings with a pro-hard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ removing them from the public record and sparking opposition allegations that she wants to conceal their influence on public policy .
The Institute of Economic Affairs ( IEA ) is widely regarded as one of Britain 's most influential right-leaning think tanks .
Two meetings with Ms Truss and the IEA had originally been included in quarterly transparency data published on the government 's website and described as discussing trade .
They were removed on Wednesday with a note explaining they were personal meetings - the first such revision since the department was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appeared to be evading rules designed to ensure integrity , transparency and honesty in public office .
Government rules require meetings with external organisations that discuss official business to be declared .
Emily Thornberry , head of Labour 's trade policy brief , said : `` It makes no sense for Liz Truss now to claim that meetings on those issues had nothing to do with her ministerial role , and suggests instead that she has something to hide , whether in terms of who attended the meetings or what specifically was discussed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the meetings were initially included due to an administrative error , and they held no information about them .
They declined to comment when asked how a meeting on trade and investment could be considered a personal meeting .

Brexit: Johnson must keep ‘over my dead body’ bid says host
Mr Corbyn claimed during an interview, he was met with great hostility for his policies as leader. In a further blow to the party, he indicated MPs within his own party did not want change thus hindering the chances of his policies. He said in an interview with economist Grace Blakely: "There are people in the Labour Party that don’t want change, that didn’t want that change." Although he insisted some within his party did not want change and thus hindered the party's progress, many voters disagreed with Brexit policy as seen by the party's losses in the north and Midlands. Boris Johnson has been warned his ambitious plan for a post-Brexit internal market in the UK will "accelerate the break-up of the Union". THIS BLOG IS NOW CLOSED. Visit HERE for your latest Brexit updates
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The Labour-led administration in Cardiff ripped apart the Prime Minister's plan to pass legislation to underpin a new internal market between the four nations. Wales issued the warning after it undertook a review of Mr Johnson's Government's white paper outlining the plans. Jeremy Miles, Welsh Brexit minister, said the plan was a cause for "concern". In a letter to UK Business Secretary Alok Sharma, Mr Miles said: “The Welsh Government is concerned that the long-term survival of the United Kingdom is under great strain and that the approach taken in the white paper will exacerbate those tensions in a way which, if not addressed, will accelerate the break-up of the Union." Mr Miles hit out at the Prime Minister's approach to the plan, saying his Government had shunned consultations with Cardiff, Holyrood and Stormont. The plan includes a proposal to impose "mutual recognition" of goods in all corners of the UK. This would allow the Westminster Government to unilaterally set food and environmental standards for Scotland and Wales. Mr Miles tore apart the white paper on the plan, saying it was "fundamentally flawed and misleading". SEE BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES:
Brexit Live: Jeremy Corbyn lashes out at MPs
Brexit timeline
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7.32am update: THIS BLOG IS NOW CLOSED. Visit HERE for your latest Brexit updates 6am update: New German law on dog walking confuses citizens Dog owners in Germany will soon need to make sure they walk their canine pet twice a day for at least an hour, under drafted reforms to animal welfare rules unveiled this week. Germany's Food and Agriculture Minister Julia Klöckner while setting out the plan: "Pets are not cuddly toys, their needs must be taken into account.” But tabloid Bild described the government’s plan as “the most insane idea that a ministry has come up with in living memory”. Others wanted the government to go further, with Thomas Schröder, president of the German Animal Welfare Association, saying owners should require proof of knowledge for how to care for their four-legged friends. 5am update: European Commission approves loan worth millions for Romanian airline The European Union has splashed a massive €62 million on a loan guarantee for Romanian airline Blue Air. The bailout aims at compensating Blue Air for damages sugared throughout the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The public guaranteed loan gives the airline around €28 million for damages directly caused by the pandemic, and around €34 million in a rescue aid to give the airline acute liquidity. Executive Vice-President Margrethe Vestager, in charge of competition policy, said: “The aviation sector has been severely hit by the coronavirus outbreak.” 2:30am update: German litterbugs cost towns millions every year Germany’s environment ministry has revealed the country spends €700 million each year cleaning up cigarettes and single-use plastics. A study published by the VKU, the German association of local utilities, assessed waste management and found staggering amounts of public funding were spent on litter. Disposing of cigarette butts costs around €225 million, and takeaway plastic cups cost around €120 million a year. Environment Minister Svenja Schulze said: "It's costing us all a lot of money because at the moment it's only the local authorities which are bearing the cleanup costs in parks and streets and disposing of the litter. “I find it only fair that, in future, the burden of cleaning and disposing of the waste will be taken on more by the polluters.”
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12am update: EU tensions with Russia rise with opposition refugee Angela Merkel and Emmanuel Macron have said they are ready to offer asylum to a Russian opposition activist after he was hospitalised. Alexei Navalny is in a coma in a hospital following a suspected “toxic poisoning”, after he criticised Vladimir Putin for passing changes to Russia’s constitution on presidential terms in office. The French President said along with the German Chancellor: "We are obviously ready to give Navalny and his loved ones all the assistance they need in terms of health, asylum, protection. “We hope above all that he can be saved and we will provide all the support we are asked for in order to do that.” Ms Merkel added: "We would give him all assistance in terms of health, including in German hospitals, if that is wanted." Dylan Donnelly takes over from Bill McLoughlin 9.20pm update: EU's plot to steal businesses from London flops in huge Brexit blow for Brussels European financial centres have failed to make the most of the UK’s departure from the bloc by seizing business opportunities from the City of London. Deutsche Boerse’s Eurex Clearing was considered one of the most likely candidates to take business from the London Stock Exchange’s LCH clearing division. Its bosses, however, has said euro clearing had grown more slowly than forecast due to the coronavirus pandemic and delays in regulation changes. They also said banks were reluctant to shift their business from London despite the continued uncertainty about the UK and EU’s future relationship. Matthias Graulich, a board member at Eurex Clearing, said: “There is a slower growth path than we initially had expected for the second half of this year primary due to COVID-19 and its implications, but everything is going in the right direction to achieve our goals.”
Brexit: Scope for a 'mutually beneficial' agreement says expert
8.11pm update: Poland set to be a major problem for the EU Poland could be a huge problem for the EU's continued integration plan, Labour MP Gisela Stuart has claimed. Despite the EU agreeing the £677billion coronavirus rescue package, Ms Stuart noted Poland may be a future problem for Brussels. She said: "I have always thought two things ought to happen if the EU wants to survive. "Europe has to come up with a model of two kinds of memberships: one for euro members and one for non-euro members. "The euro countries have to deeply integrate, the other ones don't. "Now, with the Recovery Fund, the EU is slowly edging to create debt. "And I think it is, in the long term, a necessary step if the EU wants to become a true federal state. "These are just the consequences of the single currency. And for the EU, it is an important step in the right direction."
Brexit Live: Concerns over Poland rise
7.05pm update: Frost now has upper hand over the EU for simple reason, says economist Britain now has the upper hand over the EU when it comes to trade deal talks - and UK negotiator David Frost can now turn up the heat on Brussels, an economist has suggested. The seventh round of talks between Mr Frost and opposite number Michel Barnier got underway this week - and Mark Littlewood, director of London-based think tank the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) believes the UK will now go on the offensive. He said: "I think there is an opportunity for us to play hardball. "And the reason I say that is in essence the European Union's only trade negotiation at the moment of any real importance is with the United Kingdom. "We are now at last playing the multi-dimensional chess we should have been playing from the outset." 6.02pm update: Brexit concerns outweigh COVID-19 for retirees Despite the aspect of a second wave of coronavirus striking the country, 46 percent of over-50s looking to move a abroad are now reconsidering their destination due to Brexit. A further 44 percent are contemplating dropping their plans all together according to research from Canada Life today. This in contrast to 37 percent who are concerned about COVID-19 and therefore, may not move.
Brexit Live: Jeremy Corbyn
5.26pm update: Jeremy Corbyn hits out over lack of support for Brexit policy Despite taking the party to humiliating defeat at the 2019 general election, Mr Corbyn has claimed he was not given adequate support by his MPs. In the interview with a A World to Win podcast, he said: "It was difficult, there's no denying that. "There are people in the Labour Party that don't want change, that didn't want that change. "I was faced by a great deal of hostility from the very beginning." 4.20pm update: Merkel and Macron square off in battle for Brussels Emmanuel Macron and Angela Merkel will hold showdown talks today as the European Union's two most influential leaders try to maintain their stranglehold on the bloc - and Brexit is on the agenda. The French President will meet the German Chancellor at his medieval summer retreat to tackle the most pressing issues facing the Brussels project. A German government source said: “Both are aware that the EU is in a crucial period and that France and Germany – even though they have different views on lots of issues – have to stick together.” A French official added: “This visit is testimony to the exceptional level of Franco-German engagement on the bilateral, European and international level.”
Brexit: 'Ball in UK's court' in trade talks with EU says expert
EU-UK negotiations
3.07pm update: Brexit fisheries row erupts The EU and UK have so far failed to agree a free trade agreement due to several areas of divergence, including fisheries. Brussels's chief negotiator, Michel Barnier has declared the EU will not allow European vessels to be excluded from British waters. Expert on fisheries, professor Aaron Hatcher, said in a report that Denmark in particular is vulnerable in the case of a no deal Brexit. He said: "Denmark, for example, would find it impossible to catch its quotas of herring and mackerel if it could no longer fish in UK waters, with devastating consequences for its industry. "This is why the EU is determined that the current level of access be maintained, and it has stated this quite clearly." Bill McLoughlin takes over from Laura O'Callaghan.
Sugar beet farmers in the UK have slammed the Government's post-Brexit plans
2.37pm update: Post-Brexit tariff proposal row escalates - Farmers 'baffled' A Norfolk farmer has has slammed Government plans to cut tariffs on imported sugar beet after the Brexit transition period. Tony Bambridge, chairman of the NFU's regional board for East Anglia, said the proposals would flood the UK with sugar which has been harvested by exploited workers. He said: “What the Government has decided, for some unusual reason, is to allow this significant tonnage to come into the UK under a tariff-free sugar quota from anywhere in the world, and there is no control over how it is produced. It could be produced using labour exploitation or pesticide products that are illegal in the UK. "We are baffled as to why they would decide to do this. “We are talking about 260,000 tonnes of sugar, which is equivalent to a quarter of UK production. "Can you imagine if we lost a quarter of our production? That would be like losing one of the four sugar factories, so it is not just going to affect a couple of farmers, it is a whole supply chain.”
An EU fishing chief claimed the current arrangement with the UK is 'balanced'
1.35pm update: UK request on post-Brexit migrant pact rejected by EU The EU has slapped down a British request for a migration pact that would allow the Government to send asylum seekers to other European nations, according to a report. After the Brexit transition period ends on December 31, Britain will lose the right to transfer refugees and migrants back to the EU county in which they arrived. The UK is seeking to replicate the arrangement outside the bloc. But EU negotiators have rejected the request, reports The Guardian. 12.31pm update: EU fishing chief outrageously claims bloc's access to UK waters is 'balanced' Chairman of the European Fisheries Alliance (EUFA) Gerard van Balsfoort has claimed the arrangement which gives EU boats unfettered access to Britain's rich fishing waters is "balanced". In comments likely to infuriate Leave voters, Mr van Balsfoort said any "upset" to the current rules should be avoided. He met with EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier in Brussels to discuss the ongoing trade talks. Following the meeting, Mr van Balsfoort said: "The next few months be defining for the future of thousands of fishermen, their communities and the value chain linked to fisheries across the EU and we hope that the European Union will continue to take a strong position to protect their future." He added: “The current system strikes a fragile but necessary balance between sustainable management of fish stocks, the prosperity of EU and UK fleets and the thousands of jobs in our coastal communities. "We should build upon this basis as any upset to this balance will have very real consequences for many livelihoods across the continent”. Fishing access remains one of the main sticking points in post-Brexit trade talks.
'Sneering Eurocrats' including Guy Verhofstadt made Brexit possible, Rupert Lowe has claimed
12.01pm update: Brexit trade talks: Where do we stand on UK-EU trade talks? Brexit talks resumed for the seventh round on Wednesday, as Brussels and the UK work to reach a post-Brexit deal on all elements of future relations. So where do we stand on UK-EU trade talks now? Click here for a full explanation. 11.07am update: Sugar beet farmers express fear over post-Brexit tariff proposals Sugar beet farmers in the UK have hit out at the Government's proposals for slahsed tariffs on imported cane sugar after December 31. The proposal is for a new zero-tariff 260,000-tonne Autonomous Tariff Quota (ATQ) for raw sugar coming into the country after the end of the Brexit transition period. Around half of the sugar consumed by Britons hails from farms in the UK, mainly in East Anglia and the East Midlands. British growers fear the proposal will make way for the market to be flooded with sugar grown in foreign lands where food and worker standards are significantly lower. NFU sugar board chairman Michael Slys urged the Government to "urgently review this tariff". He called the proposals "highly concerning, unjustified and unnecessary". 9.58am update: Ex-Brexit Party MEP thanks 'sneering Eurocrats for making Brexit possible' Former Brexit Party MEP Rupert Lowe has said chief Eurocrat Guy Verhofstadt was a "gift to Eurosceptics" due to his anti-Brexit rhetoric. Mr Lowe said: Every syllable Guy Verhofstadt uttered gifted the Brexit Party a 1,000 votes. "He was a gift to Eurosceptics and I'll be forever grateful to him and his fellow sneering Eurocrats who made Brexit possible. "I'll be raising a glass to him on December 31st!"
Boris Johnson is seeking to establish a UK-wide internal market after the Brexit transition period


thedailyexpress--2020-08-20--Sturgeon blasted for 'failing tourism industry' - English terrified to travel to Scotland

The email , sent to Mr Mundell by a Borders tourism business , outlined the guest 's concerns about their booked holiday in Scotland .
The email said : “ Just checking if everything is OK as per our last email and everything looks OK for our stay especially with Nicola Sturgeon threatening to quarantine us 'nasty ' English people.
” The First Minister has said she would not rule out forcing people coming to Scotland from England , Wales and Northern Ireland to face isolation measures .
Ms Sturgeon said she would consider doing so `` if it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and added : `` We have to be on our guard against cases coming into Scotland from elsewhere '' .
However , Mr Mundell described the email along with a collection of other correspondence from angry business as “ grim ” stressing there was “ no doubt in my mind ” that the Scottish Government had “ badly failed ” the tourism industry .
Mr Mundell added : “ There is no doubt in my mind that the failure of the First Minister and other senior figures in the Scottish Government to shut @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to English visitors has badly failed the tourism industry and has once again put politics ahead of people ’ s lives.
” Scotland ’ s tourism quango VisitScotland had been told by the Scottish Government last month to airbrush any mention of the “ North of England ” out of a VisitScotland tourism campaign .
VisitScotland launched the £3million marketing initiative on July 15 on the day Scotland ’ s tourism industry reopened , welcoming visitors back to the area .
READ MORE : Furious Westminster MPs turn on own party with internal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be “ extended to target the North of England from July 24 '' in their first draft , which was filed to government officials days prior to the scheme ’ s launch .
But the Scottish government told VisitScotland the “ preference is to continue the marketing focus on staycations in Scotland , with a mind to targeting the full UK market when levels of the virus in other parts of the UK are sufficiently low ” .
Mr Mundell continued : “ One individual business that has been in touch with me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just one tourism business but with have been inundated with angry calls , many turning into cancellations due to the alienation created from Holyrood and the messages on many border roads like the A1 telling visitors to stay away .
“ The Scottish government should reflect on how much tourism is UK based .
DO N'T MISS : Gloating Sturgeon celebrates skyrocketing poll as PM on alert [ REVEAL ] Scotland ’ s health secretary under fire for management of NHS [ INSIGHT ] Scotland angers Boris after key Brexit plan snubbed [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is on the front line of the north south divide being created.
” Mr Mundell asked the chiefs of VisitScotland , who were giving evidence to the committee whether they were “ embarrassed by the growing percent that Scotland is not seen as a welcoming place to millions of customers who are often the only lifeline for much of the tourism industry ?
” Riddell Graham , director of Industry and Destination Development at VisitScotland , said that it would have been “ nonsensical ” to have spent money attracting tourists to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He added : “ The classic example would be why would we promote Scotland in North America when they have got huge problems there with the virus .
`` I think specific references to England I don ’ t think was the case , it was simply ‘ can you put it on pause the activity that you were planning until such a time that it is safe to do so ’ . ''
He stressed the Scottish welcome was as “ strong as ever ” adding : “ Inevitably you will always @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the rest and I don ’ t think that the media coverage was representative in any way of the welcome that Scots are providing visitors from all over the world and particularly those from England .
`` I ’ m always embarrassed at things like that because I think it does nothing to support the well-being of the industry but I think it was a minority view and one that I think is not representative of the rest of the country.
” Ms Sturgeon has made clear that there was not `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and recently added : `` I do n't have a single anti-English fibre in my being .
`` I come from partly English stock , my grandmother was English , and I lead a party that is full of English people . ''
A Scottish Government spokesman said : `` The priority is to continue to suppress the virus and mitigate any further instances of clusters .
“ For that reason , the preference is to continue the marketing focus on staycations in Scotland , with a mind to targeting the full UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other parts of the UK are sufficiently low . ''
A spokesperson for Nicola Sturgoen added to Express.co.uk tonight : “ Oliver Mundell ’ s attempts to politicise a deadly pandemic are utterly beneath contempt .
Protecting public health and trying to save lives is the absolute priority , and nothing should be allowed to get in the way of that .
”

Scotland is ‘not a welcoming place’ claims Oliver Mundell
The First Minister has been accused of "badly failing" Scotland's tourism industry, with one Tory MSP sharing emails received from English people worried of traveling north of the border. Oliver Mundell MSP, the Scottish Conservative’s tourism spokesman, read out an email from a concerned English person to Holyrood’s Culture, Tourism, Europe and External Affairs Committee.
Trending
The email, sent to Mr Mundell by a Borders tourism business, outlined the guest's concerns about their booked holiday in Scotland. The email said: “Just checking if everything is OK as per our last email and everything looks OK for our stay especially with Nicola Sturgeon threatening to quarantine us 'nasty' English people.” The First Minister has said she would not rule out forcing people coming to Scotland from England, Wales and Northern Ireland to face isolation measures. Ms Sturgeon said she would consider doing so "if it is required from a public health perspective" and added: "We have to be on our guard against cases coming into Scotland from elsewhere".
Oliver Mundell spoke out today
Nicola Sturgeon reopened tourism last month
However, Mr Mundell described the email along with a collection of other correspondence from angry business as “grim” stressing there was “no doubt in my mind” that the Scottish Government had “badly failed” the tourism industry. Mr Mundell added: “There is no doubt in my mind that the failure of the First Minister and other senior figures in the Scottish Government to shut down the perception that Scotland is closed to English visitors has badly failed the tourism industry and has once again put politics ahead of people’s lives.” Scotland’s tourism quango VisitScotland had been told by the Scottish Government last month to airbrush any mention of the “North of England” out of a VisitScotland tourism campaign. VisitScotland launched the £3million marketing initiative on July 15 on the day Scotland’s tourism industry reopened, welcoming visitors back to the area. READ MORE: Furious Westminster MPs turn on own party with internal rift
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Riddell Graham, director of Industry and Destination Development at VisitScotland
The quango said the campaign would be “extended to target the North of England from July 24" in their first draft, which was filed to government officials days prior to the scheme’s launch. But the Scottish government told VisitScotland the “preference is to continue the marketing focus on staycations in Scotland, with a mind to targeting the full UK market when levels of the virus in other parts of the UK are sufficiently low”. Mr Mundell continued: “One individual business that has been in touch with me in recent weeks said ‘we are just one tourism business but with have been inundated with angry calls, many turning into cancellations due to the alienation created from Holyrood and the messages on many border roads like the A1 telling visitors to stay away. “The Scottish government should reflect on how much tourism is UK based. DON'T MISS:
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Scotland’s health secretary under fire for management of NHS [INSIGHT]
Scotland angers Boris after key Brexit plan snubbed [LATEST]
English tourists have been asked to not come to Scotland
“My own border business is on the front line of the north south divide being created.” Mr Mundell asked the chiefs of VisitScotland, who were giving evidence to the committee whether they were “embarrassed by the growing percent that Scotland is not seen as a welcoming place to millions of customers who are often the only lifeline for much of the tourism industry?” Riddell Graham, director of Industry and Destination Development at VisitScotland, said that it would have been “nonsensical” to have spent money attracting tourists to a place with “particular issues”. He added: “The classic example would be why would we promote Scotland in North America when they have got huge problems there with the virus.
Mr Mundell made the comments at a Scottish Government committee today


thedailyexpress--2020-08-20--EU rejects UK bid to secure asylum pact – Michel Barnier snubs David Frost's demands

Brussels officials have angered their UK counterparts by “ not engaging ” with plans to broker a post-Brexit agreement to tackle illegal migration , a Government source said .
European officials dismissed proposals put forward by Boris Johnson ’ s chief negotiator as “ one-sided ” and said the UK would instead have to reach separate agreements with member states .
David Frost raised the issue this week with EU counterpart Michel Barnier after a young man drowned trying to cross the Channel in an inflatable dinghy .
Mr Barnier has told diplomats in European capitals he wouldn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ replace the Dublin Regulation once the transition period expires in December .
Amid opposition from Malta , Italy and Greece , the Frenchman said the Government would have to strike “ bilateral fallbacks ” with individual EU states .
British officials proposed a treaty that would allow Britain to return “ all third-country nationals and stateless persons ” who enter the country without the correct paperwork to the EU country they had travelled from .
The Government would also have to accept undocumented migrants arriving in the EU via the UK .
UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would allow for unaccompanied minors to be reunified with their families in Britain .
But the plans were widely rejected by EU negotiators because refugees are more likely to arrive in the EU via southern Europe .
An EU diplomat said : “ Member states have had a fair conversation on this but they ’ re not convinced , basically the proposal is one-sided.
” Emmanuel Macron ’ s France have urged EU states to reconsider their opposition to the British plans .
The source added : “ This has basically been a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pushing for it on our side are the French .
MUST READ : Gisela Stuart explains why Lords can be reformed but EU can ’ t “ They only want it because they have a bilateral deal already with the UK and fear being on the hook for all returns.
” Home Secretary Priti Patel has urged EU countries to do more to curb the flow of migrants crossing the continent to reach Calais .
More than 4,100 people have crossed the Channel in small boats so far this year .
DO N'T @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we stand on UK-EU trade talks ?
[ INSIGHT ] Brexit setback : EU not 'significantly worried ' at prospect of no deal [ ANALYSIS ] Brexit LIVE : You 'll DESTROY the UK !
Boris sent dire warning over Union [ UPDATES ]

Brexit: EU is ‘scared of no deal’ insists political expert
Brussels officials have angered their UK counterparts by “not engaging” with plans to broker a post-Brexit agreement to tackle illegal migration, a Government source said. European officials dismissed proposals put forward by Boris Johnson’s chief negotiator as “one-sided” and said the UK would instead have to reach separate agreements with member states.
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David Frost raised the issue this week with EU counterpart Michel Barnier after a young man drowned trying to cross the Channel in an inflatable dinghy. Mr Barnier has told diplomats in European capitals he wouldn’t seek a new UK-EU migration pact to replace the Dublin Regulation once the transition period expires in December. Amid opposition from Malta, Italy and Greece, the Frenchman said the Government would have to strike “bilateral fallbacks” with individual EU states. British officials proposed a treaty that would allow Britain to return “all third-country nationals and stateless persons” who enter the country without the correct paperwork to the EU country they had travelled from.
European Union negotiators have rejected Britain's attempt to broker a post-Brexit asylum pact
Michel Barnier is the EU's chief Brexit negotiator
The Government would also have to accept undocumented migrants arriving in the EU via the UK. UK officials presented a second draft agreement that would allow for unaccompanied minors to be reunified with their families in Britain. But the plans were widely rejected by EU negotiators because refugees are more likely to arrive in the EU via southern Europe.
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David Frost is the Prime Minister's lead Brexit envoy
An EU diplomat said: “Member states have had a fair conversation on this but they’re not convinced, basically the proposal is one-sided.” Emmanuel Macron’s France have urged EU states to reconsider their opposition to the British plans. The source added: “This has basically been a UK ask. The ones who are pushing for it on our side are the French. MUST READ: Gisela Stuart explains why Lords can be reformed but EU can’t
The UK has urged EU countries to help curb people from crossing the Channel
Brexit: 'Ball in UK's court' in trade talks with EU says expert


thedailyexpress--2020-08-20--SNP crisis: Furious Westminster MPs turn on own party as internal rift splits wide open

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the SNP needs to `` focus on what matters to people '' ahead of next year 's election and put aside internal disputes stressing it would be a put off for voters .
But , several serving MPs in the Westminster Group have expressed concerns about the decision that was recently made that serving SNP MPs would have to step down ahead of next year 's Scottish Parliament election to be able to stand on the SNP ticket for a Holyrood seat .
Party sources told Express.co.uk the “ new strategy ” was “ all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the decision meant that Joanna Cherry , a serving MP , will be unable to stand for the Edinburgh Central seat , which is currently held by former Scots Tory leader Ruth Davidson whilst serving as an MP .
The letter , which has been seen by Express.co.uk , made clear the concerns which said : “ We , the undersigned MPs , are writing to question the recent NEC decision regarding dual mandates which currently appears to only apply to MPs.
” It goes onto say that there were several arguments against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ danger that giving up a Westminster constituency in advance of the Holyrood election could appear complacent and arrogant to the electorate , thus risking the loss of both seats.
” “ We , therefore , ask that the decision , which emerged from the last NEC meeting , be reversed without delay , ” it added .
The letter has been sent to the party ’ s National Secretary Angus MacLeod and so far 13 signatures have signed and Express.co.uk understands more may decide to make the move .
Politicians including former leader @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an MP and an MSP .
Speaking at the time of withdrawing her candidacy , Joanna Cherry said : `` It is unprecedented in our party 's history of dual mandates to demand that a parliamentarian make themselves and their constituency staff unemployed in order to be eligible to be a candidate .
READ MORE : Gloating Sturgeon celebrates skyrocketing poll as PM on alert '' It is particularly unreasonable to demand this in the middle of a pandemic .
“ I am not prepared to do it and so unless circumstances change @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Holyrood in this election . ''
Former government minister Marco Biagi has also announced he plans to seek the nomination for Edinburgh Central , a seat that he held between 2011 and 2016 .
The SNP politician stood down from Holyrood for health reasons but said he has been persuaded to stand again .
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Question Time: Joanna Cherry predicts end of UK in 'ten years'
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the SNP needs to "focus on what matters to people" ahead of next year's election and put aside internal disputes stressing it would be a put off for voters. But, several serving MPs in the Westminster Group have expressed concerns about the decision that was recently made that serving SNP MPs would have to step down ahead of next year's Scottish Parliament election to be able to stand on the SNP ticket for a Holyrood seat.
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Party sources told Express.co.uk the “new strategy” was “all about focussing” on constituents. But the decision meant that Joanna Cherry, a serving MP, will be unable to stand for the Edinburgh Central seat, which is currently held by former Scots Tory leader Ruth Davidson whilst serving as an MP. The letter, which has been seen by Express.co.uk, made clear the concerns which said: “We, the undersigned MPs, are writing to question the recent NEC decision regarding dual mandates which currently appears to only apply to MPs.” It goes onto say that there were several arguments against the policy stressing there was a “danger that giving up a Westminster constituency in advance of the Holyrood election could appear complacent and arrogant to the electorate, thus risking the loss of both seats.”
Internal divides are occuring within the SNP
Joanna Cherry decided not to stand as an MSP
“We, therefore, ask that the decision, which emerged from the last NEC meeting, be reversed without delay,” it added. The letter has been sent to the party’s National Secretary Angus MacLeod and so far 13 signatures have signed and Express.co.uk understands more may decide to make the move. Politicians including former leader Alex Salmond have previously served as both an MP and an MSP. Speaking at the time of withdrawing her candidacy, Joanna Cherry said: "It is unprecedented in our party's history of dual mandates to demand that a parliamentarian make themselves and their constituency staff unemployed in order to be eligible to be a candidate. READ MORE: Gloating Sturgeon celebrates skyrocketing poll as PM on alert
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The SNP are due to get a landslide at Holyrood next year
"It is particularly unreasonable to demand this in the middle of a pandemic. “I am not prepared to do it and so unless circumstances change, I won't be seeking nomination for Holyrood in this election." Former government minister Marco Biagi has also announced he plans to seek the nomination for Edinburgh Central, a seat that he held between 2011 and 2016. The SNP politician stood down from Holyrood for health reasons but said he has been persuaded to stand again. DON'T MISS:
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The letter was written to Angus MacLeod (pictured right)


thedailyexpress--2020-08-20--EU's plot to steal businesses from London FLOPS in huge Brexit blow for Brussels

European financial centres have failed to make the most of the UK ’ s departure from the bloc by seizing business opportunities from the City of London .
Hubs , such as Frankfurt and Paris , had hoped to attract investment managers after the City lost its automatic access to the EU ’ s financial services market .
But European conceded they have failed to grow their businesses in the euro-denominated trades market .
The City controls the majority of the EU ’ s clearing business – independent parties that act as intermediaries in a trade and manage the risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on transactions .
Thousands of jobs and potentially tens of millions of pounds in increased costs are at stake if the market is forced to leave Britain .
Deutsche Boerse ’ s Eurex Clearing was considered one of the most likely candidates to take business from the London Stock Exchange ’ s LCH clearing division .
Its bosses , however , has said euro clearing had grown more slowly than forecast due to the coronavirus pandemic and delays in regulation changes .
They also said banks were reluctant to shift their business from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK and EU ’ s future relationship .
Matthias Graulich , a board member at Eurex Clearing , said : “ There is a slower growth path than we initially had expected for the second half of this year primary due to COVID-19 and its implications , but everything is going in the right direction to achieve our goals.
” Eurex said it accounts for €19trillion of the total market of euro derivatives and forward contracts market of €100trillion , with LCH holding the rest .
Mr Graulich said banks had put off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and reopen them in Frankfurt because of the disruption of traders working from home during the pandemic .
The LSE has claimed there is no noticeable shift in clearing from London .
Experts insist banks are not in a position to move from the City to European hubs voluntarily because of the costs and complexity of doing so while still faced by the challenge of COVID-19 .
The European Commission has still not announced how long it will allow LCH ’ s clearing of euro swaps for EU customers to continue after Britain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ends in December .
Simon Gleeson , a financial services lawyer at Clifford Chance , said : “ It ’ s very hard to see why the EU is playing around with a time limit because Catch 22 remains in full force with banks not moving positions unless ordered to.
” MUST READ : Macron and Merkel plot EU power grab ahead of showdown talks For Britain to maintain access EU access for its financial services industry , the Bank of England will have to allow the bloc ’ s ESMA watchdog to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has previously warned “ multiple hands on the wheel ” in a crisis would create confusion .
The Bank has called for clarity by the end of September at the latest to avoid market chaos .
Mr Graulich said the EU wants power over business like euro clearing and that the amounts of business cleared inside and outside the EU will affect decisions on access for Britain .
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Brexit: 'Ball in UK's court' in trade talks with EU says expert
European financial centres have failed to make the most of the UK’s departure from the bloc by seizing business opportunities from the City of London. Hubs, such as Frankfurt and Paris, had hoped to attract investment managers after the City lost its automatic access to the EU’s financial services market. But European conceded they have failed to grow their businesses in the euro-denominated trades market.
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The City controls the majority of the EU’s clearing business – independent parties that act as intermediaries in a trade and manage the risk if one side defaults, collecting fees on transactions. Thousands of jobs and potentially tens of millions of pounds in increased costs are at stake if the market is forced to leave Britain. Deutsche Boerse’s Eurex Clearing was considered one of the most likely candidates to take business from the London Stock Exchange’s LCH clearing division. Its bosses, however, has said euro clearing had grown more slowly than forecast due to the coronavirus pandemic and delays in regulation changes.
EU firms have failed to steal business away from Britain after Brexit
Prime Minister Boris Johnson
They also said banks were reluctant to shift their business from London despite the continued uncertainty about the UK and EU’s future relationship. Matthias Graulich, a board member at Eurex Clearing, said: “There is a slower growth path than we initially had expected for the second half of this year primary due to COVID-19 and its implications, but everything is going in the right direction to achieve our goals.” Eurex said it accounts for €19trillion of the total market of euro derivatives and forward contracts market of €100trillion, with LCH holding the rest. Mr Graulich said banks had put off plans to close swaps positions in London and reopen them in Frankfurt because of the disruption of traders working from home during the pandemic.
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Ursula von der Leyen is the European Commission's president
The LSE has claimed there is no noticeable shift in clearing from London. Experts insist banks are not in a position to move from the City to European hubs voluntarily because of the costs and complexity of doing so while still faced by the challenge of COVID-19. The European Commission has still not announced how long it will allow LCH’s clearing of euro swaps for EU customers to continue after Britain’s full access to the bloc ends in December. Simon Gleeson, a financial services lawyer at Clifford Chance, said: “It’s very hard to see why the EU is playing around with a time limit because Catch 22 remains in full force with banks not moving positions unless ordered to.” MUST READ: Macron and Merkel plot EU power grab ahead of showdown talks
The City of London remains European's main financial centre
For Britain to maintain access EU access for its financial services industry, the Bank of England will have to allow the bloc’s ESMA watchdog to jointly supervise LCH. But the BoE has previously warned “multiple hands on the wheel” in a crisis would create confusion. The Bank has called for clarity by the end of September at the latest to avoid market chaos. Mr Graulich said the EU wants power over business like euro clearing and that the amounts of business cleared inside and outside the EU will affect decisions on access for Britain. DON'T MISS
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Brexit: Ewing says lack of transition period extension is 'reckless'


thedailyexpress--2020-08-21--Nothing has changed! Barnier blows top at Brexit stalemate - Frost stands firm on fishing

The European Union ’ s chief negotiator said the wrangling over the post-Brexit pact remained stuck because of disagreements over access to Britain ’ s fishing grounds and the so-called “ level-playing field ” .
The Frenchman said : “ We have very little time left to conclude the negotiations to ensure an agreement can enter into effect on January 1 , 2021 – in four months and 10 days .
We still have a few months left to find an agreement to find agreement on all issues under discussion to consolidate the text.
” Mr Barnier accused the British @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issues of fundamental importance for the European Union despite the flexibility which we have shown over recent months ” .
The Brussels bureaucrat blamed Boris Johnson for the deadlock .
He added : “ Those who were hoping for negotiations to move on swiftly forward this week will have been disappointed .
“ Unfortunately I too have been frankly disappointed as well , I must say .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson told us in June that he wished to speed up.
” Mr Barnier refused to drop his demands a regulatory level-playing field @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a pact that guarantees the “ long-term perspective for European fishermen ” .
He said : `` Today , at this state , agreement between the UK and European Union seems unlikely .
“ I simply can not understand why we are wasting valuable time.
” After the talks , Mr Frost concluded an agreement “ will not be easy to achieve ” .
The Brexit envoy said the EU is still insisting Britain must follow the bloc ’ s state aid rules after the end of the transition .
He said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ round of negotiations with the EU .
As I said last week , agreement is still possible , and it is still our goal , but it is clear that it will not be easy to achieve .
Substantive work continues to be necessary across a range of different areas of potential UK-EU future cooperation if we are to deliver it .
“ We have had useful discussions this week but there has been little progress .
“ The EU is still insisting not only that we must accept continuity with EU state @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that this must be agreed before any further substantive work can be done in any other area of the negotiation , including on legal texts .
This makes it unnecessarily difficult to make progress .
There are other significant areas which remain to be resolved and , even where there is a broad understanding between negotiators , there is a lot of detail to work through .
Time is short for both sides .
“ We have been clear from the outset about the principles underlying the UK approach .
We are seeking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ control of our own laws , borders , and waters , and centred upon a trading relationship based on an FTA like those the EU has concluded with a range of other international partners , together with practical arrangements for cooperation in areas such as aviation , scientific programmes , and law enforcement .
When the EU accepts this reality in all areas of the negotiation , it will be much easier to make progress .
“ We will continue to work hard to reach an agreement .
Chief Negotiators and their teams @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the next two weeks before the next Round in London in the week of September 7.
” MUST READ : Brexit GAMBLE : Frost stuns EU by putting forward major new plan

Brexit: Michel Barnier ‘concerned’ after negotiations with UK
The European Union’s chief negotiator said the wrangling over the post-Brexit pact remained stuck because of disagreements over access to Britain’s fishing grounds and the so-called “level-playing field”. The Frenchman said: “We have very little time left to conclude the negotiations to ensure an agreement can enter into effect on January 1, 2021 – in four months and 10 days. We still have a few months left to find an agreement to find agreement on all issues under discussion to consolidate the text.”
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Mr Barnier accused the British of refusing to “move forward on issues of fundamental importance for the European Union despite the flexibility which we have shown over recent months”. The Brussels bureaucrat blamed Boris Johnson for the deadlock. He added: “Those who were hoping for negotiations to move on swiftly forward this week will have been disappointed. “Unfortunately I too have been frankly disappointed as well, I must say. Prime Minister Boris Johnson told us in June that he wished to speed up.”
Michel Barnier says talks ended with very little progress
Michel Barnier is the EU's chief Brexit negotiator
Mr Barnier refused to drop his demands a regulatory level-playing field that ties Britain to EU standards and a pact that guarantees the “long-term perspective for European fishermen”. He said: "Today, at this state, agreement between the UK and European Union seems unlikely. “I simply cannot understand why we are wasting valuable time.”
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David Frost is Boris Johnson's lead Brexit envoy
After the talks, Mr Frost concluded an agreement “will not be easy to achieve”. The Brexit envoy said the EU is still insisting Britain must follow the bloc’s state aid rules after the end of the transition. He said: “We have just concluded the seventh round of negotiations with the EU. As I said last week, agreement is still possible, and it is still our goal, but it is clear that it will not be easy to achieve. Substantive work continues to be necessary across a range of different areas of potential UK-EU future cooperation if we are to deliver it. “We have had useful discussions this week but there has been little progress. “The EU is still insisting not only that we must accept continuity with EU state aid and fisheries policy, but also that this must be agreed before any further substantive work can be done in any other area of the negotiation, including on legal texts. This makes it unnecessarily difficult to make progress. There are other significant areas which remain to be resolved and, even where there is a broad understanding between negotiators, there is a lot of detail to work through. Time is short for both sides.
“We have been clear from the outset about the principles underlying the UK approach. We are seeking a relationship which ensures we regain sovereign control of our own laws, borders, and waters, and centred upon a trading relationship based on an FTA like those the EU has concluded with a range of other international partners, together with practical arrangements for cooperation in areas such as aviation, scientific programmes, and law enforcement. When the EU accepts this reality in all areas of the negotiation, it will be much easier to make progress. “We will continue to work hard to reach an agreement. Chief Negotiators and their teams have agreed to remain in close contact over the next two weeks before the next Round in London in the week of September 7.” MUST READ: Brexit GAMBLE: Frost stuns EU by putting forward major new plan
David Frost and Michel Barnier during a recent round of trade talks
Michel Barnier: UK seeing ‘clear consequences of Brexit vote’