thedailyexpress--2020-08-29--US trade deal on brink: Trump drops pre-election Brexit agreement - 'They've ABANDONED it'

Talks between the UK and US negotiating teams slowed this month and look set to be put on the backburner , as Mr Trump faces an uphill battle to stay in the White House on November 3 .
Trade discussions between International Trade Secretary , Liz Truss , and her US counterpart Robert Lighthizer , are understood to have hit a roadblock after the US refused to back down on imposing tariffs on British goods .
Inderjeet Parmar , head of International Politics at City University London , said the US had now “ abandoned ” any possibility of an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accepted its terms .
Professor Parmar added the coronavirus pandemic has shortened the timetable for talks and now a trade deal for Britain has fallen down the list of priorities .
Mr Trump currently trails his Democrat rival Joe Biden in many opinion polls with just over two months to go until election day .
Professor Parmar told Express.co.uk : “ In practice , I think they have abandoned any idea of a trade agreement before November unless Britain agrees to all those changes .
“ Now I don ’ t think that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in charge are in any kind of mood for that .
“ So the fact that Trump is trailing in the polls , I think the main reason for no agreement is because of the pandemic really , that has really slowed everything down .
“ So the fact he is trailing in the polls you could argue that it would give Britain more leverage .
“ But I think everything is for the election for Trump and I am not sure a trade agreement is the top priority.
” Ms Truss met @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of talks in Washington earlier this month .
Ms Truss said the demands for US tariffs on British products were `` unacceptable and unfair '' .
The International Trade Secretary had hoped to convince Mr Lighthizer to go further , after the US initially dropped tariffs on just £5.75billion worth of British goods .
Following the discussions , Ms Truss said : “ The Government is stepping up talks with the US to try and break the impasse , and will be entering into further discussions with my opposite number US Trade Representative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ READ MORE : Boris Johnson told to stand up to US over trade deal demand The UK has since increased its preparations for trade deals with nations around the world as talks with the European Union continue to unravel .
The Department for International Trade has set up 11 groups covering a range of areas , such as investment , life sciences , and financial services , to help advise on negotiations .
Along with the US , Britain is looking to strike Free Trade Agreements with Japan , New Zealand and Australia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he is `` disappointed '' [ VIDEO ] BBC fury : EU anthem played at Proms ' first night in ‘ Brexit protest ' [ INSIGHT ] No deal Brexit deadline : When is the deadline for Brexit deal ?
Latest [ EXPLAINER ]

UK-US trade deal: Trump has ‘bigger fish to fry’ says expert
Talks between the UK and US negotiating teams slowed this month and look set to be put on the backburner, as Mr Trump faces an uphill battle to stay in the White House on November 3. Trade discussions between International Trade Secretary, Liz Truss, and her US counterpart Robert Lighthizer, are understood to have hit a roadblock after the US refused to back down on imposing tariffs on British goods.
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Inderjeet Parmar, head of International Politics at City University London, said the US had now “abandoned” any possibility of an agreement before the election unless the UK accepted its terms. Professor Parmar added the coronavirus pandemic has shortened the timetable for talks and now a trade deal for Britain has fallen down the list of priorities. Mr Trump currently trails his Democrat rival Joe Biden in many opinion polls with just over two months to go until election day. Professor Parmar told Express.co.uk: “In practice, I think they have abandoned any idea of a trade agreement before November unless Britain agrees to all those changes.
A Brexit trade deal between the UK and US is hanging in the balance
International Trade Secretary Liz Truss is leading talks with the US
“Now I don’t think that Liz Truss and the others who are in charge are in any kind of mood for that. “So the fact that Trump is trailing in the polls, I think the main reason for no agreement is because of the pandemic really, that has really slowed everything down. “So the fact he is trailing in the polls you could argue that it would give Britain more leverage. “But I think everything is for the election for Trump and I am not sure a trade agreement is the top priority.”
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The UK is looking for tariff-free trade with the US
Ms Truss met her US counterpart for a third round of talks in Washington earlier this month. Ms Truss said the demands for US tariffs on British products were "unacceptable and unfair". The International Trade Secretary had hoped to convince Mr Lighthizer to go further, after the US initially dropped tariffs on just £5.75billion worth of British goods. Following the discussions, Ms Truss said: “The Government is stepping up talks with the US to try and break the impasse, and will be entering into further discussions with my opposite number US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer in the coming weeks.” READ MORE: Boris Johnson told to stand up to US over trade deal demand
Donald Trump is trailing Joe Biden in the latest polls
A timeline of talks between the UK and EU


thedailyexpress--2020-08-29--House of Lords FURY: Boris told to get rid of 'Westminster’s private member’s club'

The Prime Minister is reportedly pushing ahead with a `` donors list '' , providing those who have previously funded his ruling Conservative Party with `` votes on our laws for life '' in the House of Lords .
Downing Street sources have revealed donors - including those that have already been rejected by the House of Lords Appointments Commission ( HoLAC ) – will be handed seats in the Lords in the coming months .
The alleged move has sparked a furious reaction from the Electoral Reform Society ( ERS ) , an independent campaigning organisation aiming to champion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Britain .
ERS chief executive Darren Hughes told Express.co.uk : “ The unelected House of Lords is absolutely bust .
We urgently need to move to a proportionally-elected senate , representing the nations and regions , and stop the rot before it ’ s too late .
`` Westminster ’ s private member ’ s club – funded by us – has got to go .
`` The Lords has long been used by Prime Ministers for rewarding loyalists and funders , so this is sadly nothing new .
`` What is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ become , with seats in Parliament looking like direct rewards for support . ''
He added : `` Voters will not put up with this much longer and this rumoured ‘ donors list ’ is an undemocratic outrage .
`` Clearly the appointments system is unfit for purpose , with a toothless regulator that can simply be overridden by the PM .
`` Voters should decide who votes on our laws , not party elites and officials.
” Mr Hughes also warned UK voters could see the reported move as a `` cash-for-honours @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against the Prime Minister , adding `` trust in politics is already at rock bottom '' .
The ERS chief executive said : `` To the public this looks like a cash-for-honours scandal , and this kind of cronyistic behaviour has to stop .
The only way to do that is by removing the PM ’ s power to pick legislators , and finally putting that in the hands of voters .
`` Voters should decide who votes on our laws , not party elites and officials .
There was anger across the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to this already bloated house .
If more party funders look set to join the ranks , respect for Parliament will fall further off a cliff .
`` Four-hundred-thousand people have signed our petition for the Lords to be scrapped and replaced .
Those calls will only grow louder – and the Government must stand up and listen .
`` The notion of the unelected Lords being some kind of independent revising chamber has already been shot to ribbons .
This rumours donor list could be the match that destroys it entirely .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for parties to pack our Parliament with their pals and party loyalists and sooner or later , the public simply will not accept this dire state of affairs any longer . ''
Private Eye reported : `` No 10 is briefing hacks that the PM will “ sort out ” HoLAC , or at least clip its wings , before proceeding with a virulent “ second wave ” of peerages this autumn – mainly ( though not exclusively ) for “ the donors ” .
It cited leaks from the HoLAC who have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as Johnny Leavesley , chairman of the Midlands Industrial Council – a clearing house for Tory donations from some of the party ’ s biggest benefactors - being the next to be handed peerages .
The third name leaked , the publication alleges , is Peter Cruddas , the Conservative treasurer from 2011-12 who as well as donating £350,000 to Vote Leave , has given a further £1.4million to the Tories , including £50,000 to Mr Johnson 's successful leadership campaign last year .

House of Lords ‘more democratic’ than Commons says Bennett
The Prime Minister is reportedly pushing ahead with a "donors list", providing those who have previously funded his ruling Conservative Party with "votes on our laws for life" in the House of Lords. Downing Street sources have revealed donors - including those that have already been rejected by the House of Lords Appointments Commission (HoLAC) – will be handed seats in the Lords in the coming months. The alleged move has sparked a furious reaction from the Electoral Reform Society (ERS), an independent campaigning organisation aiming to champion the rights of voters and improve democracy in Britain.
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ERS chief executive Darren Hughes told Express.co.uk: “The unelected House of Lords is absolutely bust. We urgently need to move to a proportionally-elected senate, representing the nations and regions, and stop the rot before it’s too late. "Westminster’s private member’s club – funded by us – has got to go. "The Lords has long been used by Prime Ministers for rewarding loyalists and funders, so this is sadly nothing new. "What is shocking is just how explicit this has become, with seats in Parliament looking like direct rewards for support."
Boris Johnson has come under pressure over appointments made to the House of Lords
The Prime Minister has been warned to immediately launch a dramatic restructure peerage appointments system in the House of Lords
He added: "Voters will not put up with this much longer and this rumoured ‘donors list’ is an undemocratic outrage. "Clearly the appointments system is unfit for purpose, with a toothless regulator that can simply be overridden by the PM. "Voters should decide who votes on our laws, not party elites and officials.” Mr Hughes also warned UK voters could see the reported move as a "cash-for-honours scandal", and could quickly turn against the Prime Minister, adding "trust in politics is already at rock bottom".
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The ERS raged 'the unelected House of Lords is absolutely bust'
The ERS chief executive said: "To the public this looks like a cash-for-honours scandal, and this kind of cronyistic behaviour has to stop. The only way to do that is by removing the PM’s power to pick legislators, and finally putting that in the hands of voters. "Voters should decide who votes on our laws, not party elites and officials. There was anger across the spectrum when the PM appointed 36 Lords to this already bloated house. If more party funders look set to join the ranks, respect for Parliament will fall further off a cliff. "Four-hundred-thousand people have signed our petition for the Lords to be scrapped and replaced. Those calls will only grow louder – and the Government must stand up and listen. "The notion of the unelected Lords being some kind of independent revising chamber has already been shot to ribbons. This rumours donor list could be the match that destroys it entirely.
The increasing size of the House of Lords has been heavily criticised
A petition from the ERS to scrap and replace the unelected House of Lords with a PR-elected chamber has gained 400,000 signatures
"It is not a good look for parties to pack our Parliament with their pals and party loyalists and sooner or later, the public simply will not accept this dire state of affairs any longer." Private Eye reported: "No 10 is briefing hacks that the PM will “sort out” HoLAC, or at least clip its wings, before proceeding with a virulent “second wave” of peerages this autumn – mainly (though not exclusively) for “the donors”. It cited leaks from the HoLAC who have mentioned former MEP Daniel Hannan, as well as Johnny Leavesley, chairman of the Midlands Industrial Council – a clearing house for Tory donations from some of the party’s biggest benefactors - being the next to be handed peerages. The third name leaked, the publication alleges, is Peter Cruddas, the Conservative treasurer from 2011-12 who as well as donating £350,000 to Vote Leave, has given a further £1.4million to the Tories, including £50,000 to Mr Johnson's successful leadership campaign last year.


thedailyexpress--2020-08-29--Nicola Sturgeon fury: SNP accused of scoring political points with daily BBC briefings

Labour Peer George Foulkes has made a formal complaint to BBC Scotland over the First Minister ’ s daily coronavirus briefings , claiming they break Ofcom rules and BBC impartiality guidelines .
The SNP-led Scottish Government has been holding the daily question and answer sessions since March as the coronavirus outbreak moved swiftly through Scotland .
Ms Sturgeon is joined by cabinet members and clinical directors/scientists around four days a week at 12:30 pm on the BBC .
During the briefing , the First Minister gives updates on relevant legislative changes as well as the latest COVID-19 statistics .
She @ @ @ @ @ @ @ variety of UK media .
But taking to social media , Lord Foulkes , who is known as Baron Foulkes of Cumnock in the House of Lords , said : “ I ’ ve put a formal complaint to BBC Scotland that they are breaking Ofcom and BBC Charter rules on impartiality by broadcasting daily broadcasts by the SNP leader without the right of reply to Opposition parties .
SNP Cllr Mhairi Hunter , Convener for Health and Social Care Integration at Glasgow City Council , however , questioned Lord Foulkes actions and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What are they going to do , take turns to stand up and say remember to wash your hands ?
” Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie has been in direct contact with BBC Scotland director Donalda McKinnon to address the issue .
The MSP wrote in a letter to Ms MacKinnon that briefings have become “ increasingly political ” stressing they are “ no longer used ” to relay information .
READ MORE : Hands off !
SNP lashes out at UK as Scotland faces controversial loss SNP Cllr Mhairi Hunter , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Glasgow City Council , however , questioned Lord Foulkes actions and joked : “ Right of reply ?
What are they going to do , take turns to stand up and say remember to wash your hands ?
” Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie has been in direct contact with BBC Scotland director Donalda McKinnon to address the issue .
The MSP wrote in a letter to Ms MacKinnon that briefings have become “ increasingly political ” stressing they are “ no longer used ” to relay information .
DO N'T @ @ @ @ @ @ @ apology after £140k blunder [ REVEAL ] SNP ordered to ‘ get off the sidelines ’ as Nicola Sturgeon attacked [ LATEST ] Nicola Sturgeon sets out vision for new SNP Scottish Bank [ INSIGHT ] The complaint came after Downing Street scrapped its daily talks in June following the announcement of phase three measures being relaxed .
In response to the complaint , a BBC Scotland spokesperson said ; “ We are broadcasting Scottish Government briefings on the pandemic and the easing of lockdown because these are matters of significant public interest.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ was “ required to assess and investigate complaints about its programmes initially.
” But they stressed that “ if the complainants are unhappy with how their complaint has been addressed by the BBC , they should bring it to us and we ’ ll examine it.
” A Scottish Government spokesperson , added : `` The regular media briefings continue to be the most used source of information about the COVID-19 pandemic in Scotland and are used to disseminate the latest public health guidance on coronavirus , as well as important information about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ economy .
“ They also provide an opportunity for scrutiny from the media with 10 to 20 members of the media participating every day .
”

Nicola Sturgeon grilled on manifesto at COVID-19 briefing
Labour Peer George Foulkes has made a formal complaint to BBC Scotland over the First Minister’s daily coronavirus briefings, claiming they break Ofcom rules and BBC impartiality guidelines. The SNP-led Scottish Government has been holding the daily question and answer sessions since March as the coronavirus outbreak moved swiftly through Scotland.
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Ms Sturgeon is joined by cabinet members and clinical directors/scientists around four days a week at 12:30 pm on the BBC. During the briefing, the First Minister gives updates on relevant legislative changes as well as the latest COVID-19 statistics. She then answers questions from journalists across a variety of UK media. But taking to social media, Lord Foulkes, who is known as Baron Foulkes of Cumnock in the House of Lords, said: “I’ve put a formal complaint to BBC Scotland that they are breaking Ofcom and BBC Charter rules on impartiality by broadcasting daily broadcasts by the SNP leader without the right of reply to Opposition parties.
The complaint was made yesterday
Labour Lord Foulkes has complained to BBC Scotland
“Others could follow this example.” SNP Cllr Mhairi Hunter, Convener for Health and Social Care Integration at Glasgow City Council, however, questioned Lord Foulkes actions and joked: “Right of reply? What are they going to do, take turns to stand up and say remember to wash your hands?” Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie has been in direct contact with BBC Scotland director Donalda McKinnon to address the issue. The MSP wrote in a letter to Ms MacKinnon that briefings have become “increasingly political” stressing they are “no longer used” to relay information. READ MORE: Hands off! SNP lashes out at UK as Scotland faces controversial loss
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The briefings take place at 12:15pm during the week.
“Others could follow this example.” SNP Cllr Mhairi Hunter, Convener for Health and Social Care Integration at Glasgow City Council, however, questioned Lord Foulkes actions and joked: “Right of reply? What are they going to do, take turns to stand up and say remember to wash your hands?” Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie has been in direct contact with BBC Scotland director Donalda McKinnon to address the issue. The MSP wrote in a letter to Ms MacKinnon that briefings have become “increasingly political” stressing they are “no longer used” to relay information. DON'T MISS:
Nicola Sturgeon forced into humiliating apology after £140k blunder [REVEAL]
SNP ordered to ‘get off the sidelines’ as Nicola Sturgeon attacked [LATEST]
Nicola Sturgeon sets out vision for new SNP Scottish Bank [INSIGHT]
The Scottish Government have been keen to update everyone daily on COVID-19


thedailyexpress--2020-08-29--Nicola Sturgeon has thrown children under bus in ‘deliberate attempt to make mischief’

Professor Robert Dingwall said that the decision to make pupils wear masks in Scottish schools was a “ deliberate attempt to make mischief ” .
Shortly after the Holyrood decision the UK government , which had ruled out masks in schools , U-turned , saying they would be needed where a local lockdown was in place , or at the head teacher ’ s discretion .
The move prompted Sir Charles Walker , vice-chairman of the 1922 committee of backbench Tory MPs , to accuse the government of repeatedly following the Scottish lead .
Must keep Speaking in a personal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ SNP manoeuvres were aimed at “ embarrassing ” Westminster .
They came at a time when education secretary Gavin Williamson was reeling from the A-level fiasco and also preyed on the fears of parents nervous about children returning to class , he said .
A “ kind or compassionate ” government would not compel children to wear masks , said the professor .
He explained that before the mask row he could understand why the Scottish government might have taken a different approach to the rest of the UK because of the uncertainty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Westminster diverge , this does not have to mean that the Scottish path has been chosen to promote the SNP at the expense of the UK government , ” he said .
“ And I have cut the Scottish Government a fair bit of slack in their management of the Covid-19 pandemic.
” But the Professor of Sociology at Nottingham Trent University went on : “ This week ’ s fiasco over face coverings in secondary schools forces me to change my mind .
“ The interests of Scottish children have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Westminster government .
“ It is a deliberate attempt to make mischief when a weakened education minister is trying to coax fearful parents and their children back to school.
” Scottish schools began to reopen in the second week of August .
It was after pupils had returned that Nicola Sturgeon introduced the idea of masks .
Professor Dingwall suggested that if there had been genuine fears about transmission in schools , Holyrood would have acted before their schools went back .
Sturgeon claimed she was following the advice of the World Health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ masks .
But Professor Dingwall said the actual recommendations from the WHO were more nuanced .
He said : “ The science has not changed but the political opportunity beckoned .
The result is that English children have also been thrown under the bus .
“ The Scottish Government claims that the change was based on a new World Health Organisation recommendation .
“ The actual WHO document is complex and elaborately worded to balance weak evidence with different political and cultural contexts.
” He said that the recommendation was not just a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ busy corridors ” but one that stressed the main value of face coverings was when there was a high level of community infection .
“ The Scottish Government has been bragging for weeks about how low its infection rates are , compared with the rest of the United Kingdom , ” Prof Dingwall said .
He suggested that children would not be spending long enough in corridors for it to be a risk of transmission , adding that ventilation was a better solution .
He went on : “ Requiring face covering for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kind or compassionate government .
“ Implementation beyond the legal minimum is not the action of a teaching profession that claims to have the welfare of children as its first consideration.
” Ellen Townsend , a professor of psychology of the University of Nottingham , also expressed alarm , suggesting masks in corridors could be the thin end of the wedge .
She said : “ My real concern is that all these measures including the use of masks in schools are contradicting the rights of the child - the rights of adults @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which should be front and centre .
“ Most people who have died of these were very fragile , had multiple morbidities and are well over the age of the average life expectancy .
“ Of course , every death is tragic - we lose around 1700 people from all causes every day in England and Wales , but people are not aware of the baseline .
“ If my dear mother was still alive she would not want children to sacrifice living for an infinitesimally small chance that they would get coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contract coronavirus are not aware that they have it .
A study this week showed that no healthy children have died from it .
“ There are no good community based studies especially those involving children and it is not good enough scientifically to mandate the use of masks on the basis of a precautionary principle .
“ The use of masks is dehumanising .
Seeing a face is important for social development and for communication .
We derive so many important cues from faces - of course eyes tell you something , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lip or grimace .
I worry that it is 'salami slice ' policy making .
But a Scottish Government spokesman said : “ After Scotland ’ s schools went back , the World Health Organisation issued new advice recommending face masks for children aged 12 and over when they can not social distance .
“ As part of our pledge to keep all safety measures under review in light of the latest expert advice , we accepted the recommendations of our scientific advisers based on this and other emerging evidence , that pupils @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Meanwhile , sources in the UK government have said Ms Sturgeon ’ s administration in Scotland has been “ a nightmare to work with ” .
The senior source said : “ We have tried to work cooperatively with the devolved administrations and while Wales and Northern Ireland have been constructive and helpful , the SNP in Scotland have just thought about political gain .
“ If you tell the SNP ministers something they announce it publicly straight away and then if you hold it back because you don ’ t want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ”

Nicola Sturgeon has thrown children under bus in ‘deliberate attempt to make mischief’
Professor Robert Dingwall said that the decision to make pupils wear masks in Scottish schools was a “deliberate attempt to make mischief”. Shortly after the Holyrood decision the UK government, which had ruled out masks in schools, U-turned, saying they would be needed where a local lockdown was in place, or at the head teacher’s discretion.
The move prompted Sir Charles Walker, vice-chairman of the 1922 committee of backbench Tory MPs, to accuse the government of repeatedly following the Scottish lead. Speaking in a personal capacity Professor Dingwall said he believed the SNP manoeuvres were aimed at “embarrassing” Westminster. They came at a time when education secretary Gavin Williamson was reeling from the A-level fiasco and also preyed on the fears of parents nervous about children returning to class, he said. A “kind or compassionate” government would not compel children to wear masks, said the professor. He explained that before the mask row he could understand why the Scottish government might have taken a different approach to the rest of the UK because of the uncertainty of the science. “If Scotland and Westminster diverge, this does not have to mean that the Scottish path has been chosen to promote the SNP at the expense of the UK government,” he said. “And I have cut the Scottish Government a fair bit of slack in their management of the Covid-19 pandemic.”
Nicola Sturgeon viewed a classroom as she visited West Calder High School in West Calder
But the Professor of Sociology at Nottingham Trent University went on: “This week’s fiasco over face coverings in secondary schools forces me to change my mind. “The interests of Scottish children have been sacrificed to the desire to embarrass the Westminster government. “It is a deliberate attempt to make mischief when a weakened education minister is trying to coax fearful parents and their children back to school.” Scottish schools began to reopen in the second week of August. It was after pupils had returned that Nicola Sturgeon introduced the idea of masks. Professor Dingwall suggested that if there had been genuine fears about transmission in schools, Holyrood would have acted before their schools went back. Sturgeon claimed she was following the advice of the World Health Organisation that children over 12 should wear masks. But Professor Dingwall said the actual recommendations from the WHO were more nuanced.
Scottish schools began to reopen in the second week of August
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He said: “The science has not changed but the political opportunity beckoned. The result is that English children have also been thrown under the bus. “The Scottish Government claims that the change was based on a new World Health Organisation recommendation. “The actual WHO document is complex and elaborately worded to balance weak evidence with different political and cultural contexts.” He said that the recommendation was not just a “simple instruction to cover faces in busy corridors” but one that stressed the main value of face coverings was when there was a high level of community infection. “The Scottish Government has been bragging for weeks about how low its infection rates are, compared with the rest of the United Kingdom,” Prof Dingwall said. He suggested that children would not be spending long enough in corridors for it to be a risk of transmission, adding that ventilation was a better solution. He went on: “Requiring face covering for pupils is not the action of a kind or compassionate government. “Implementation beyond the legal minimum is not the action of a teaching profession that claims to have the welfare of children as its first consideration.”
Trending
Ellen Townsend, a professor of psychology of the University of Nottingham, also expressed alarm, suggesting masks in corridors could be the thin end of the wedge. She said: “My real concern is that all these measures including the use of masks in schools are contradicting the rights of the child - the rights of adults have superseded the rights of the child which should be front and centre. “Most people who have died of the virus were very frail, had multiple morbidities and are well over the age of the average life expectancy. “Of course, every death is tragic - we lose around 1700 people from all causes every day in England and Wales, but people are not aware of the baseline. “If my dear mother was still alive she would not want children to sacrifice living for an infinitesimally small chance that they would get coronavirus and die. Remember most people who contract coronavirus are not aware that they have it. A study this week showed that no healthy children have died from it. “There are no good community based studies especially those involving children and it is not good enough scientifically to mandate the use of masks on the basis of a precautionary principle. “The use of masks is dehumanising. Seeing a face is important for social development and for communication. We derive so many important cues from faces - of course eyes tell you something, but you cannot see a trembling lip or grimace. I worry that it is 'salami slice' policy making.
Ellen Townsend suggested masks in corridors could be the thin end of the wedge
“We mandate masks in corridors and the danger is we will bring them in to assemblies, classrooms and elsewhere. How will a teacher know a child is in distress? “In all of this we have lost sight of children’s needs and evidence is being diverted to a virus that right now is no more bothersome than flu.” Opposition parties in Holyrood have said that the warning from a prominent academic must be taken seriously. Jamie Greene, Scottish Conservative shadow education secretary, said: “Our paramount concern must be the safety of children balanced with the quality of their educational experience. “The main problem many parents have is that no scientific justification has been presented to them by the Scottish government over its decisions. “The fact that senior and respected academics are questioning the motives of the SNP government demonstrates a worrying lack of faith in the decision making process. “Given that there are four nations discussions over these important issues, one does wonder sometimes why Nicola Sturgeon inevitably always makes the first move.”


thedailyexpress--2020-08-29--BBC humiliation: MPs to decriminalise non-payment of licence fee – EXCLUSIVE

With a decision following the consultation on the future of the tax used to fund the BBC imminent , a source close to culture secretary Oliver Dowden said that it is “ highly likely ” he will opt for decriminalisation .
The decision will be a hammer blow to the Corporation who will no longer be able to drag people who do not pay the licence to the criminal courts and estimates that it will lose £1 billion annually through decriminalisation .
The Whitehall source said : “ The consultation is finished and the conclusions will be published soon but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will happen.
” Currently , courts can impose a £1,000 fine for non-payment which can become a prison sentence if people do not pay .
Between 2015 and 2018 91 people , disproportionately women from low income families , were jailed for non-payment .
But with tens of thousands of people backing the Defund the BBC campaign it could see many of them stopping paying the £157.50 licence fee .
The threat of decriminalisation comes amid widespread fury over the way the BBC tried to block playing Rule Britannia and Land of Hope @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Proms because of claims it was linked to slavery .
The move was publicly criticised by Prime Minister Boris Johnson and the BBC decided to play the tunes but not have the words sung in a move it said would only happen this year .
Meanwhile , there is continuing anger over the way the BBC reneged on its agreement to pay for the free licence fee for all over-75s .
Questions also continue to be asked about the high salaries of its presenters including £1.8 million for Gary Linekar to present @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
There are also concerns that the BBC has not show impartiality on major issues particularly Brexit where it was consistently accused of being pro-Remain in the balance of its coverage .
Earlier this week the outgoing Director General Lord Hall was mocked after he suggested that the licence fee should be replaced by another household tax similar to the Council Tax to fund the broadcaster ’ s burgeoning spending .
He wanted the tax to even apply to people who do not own a television .
He said : “ I think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can be charged progressively so those who can afford to pay more and those who ca n't afford to pay less , should be looked at .
“ Should it be collected in a way on household bills , council tax bills , to cut down the cost ? '
He added : “ If you want to have something good , a public service available to all , then that has to be funded by all , not by subscription or behind some paywall.
” It was the first time Lord Hall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of date .

BBC licence fee: Campaigner on way PM could 'approach' issue
With a decision following the consultation on the future of the tax used to fund the BBC imminent, a source close to culture secretary Oliver Dowden said that it is “highly likely” he will opt for decriminalisation. The decision will be a hammer blow to the Corporation who will no longer be able to drag people who do not pay the licence to the criminal courts and estimates that it will lose £1 billion annually through decriminalisation.
The Whitehall source said: “The consultation is finished and the conclusions will be published soon but it is now highly likely that decriminalisation will happen.” Currently, courts can impose a £1,000 fine for non-payment which can become a prison sentence if people do not pay. Between 2015 and 2018 91 people, disproportionately women from low income families, were jailed for non-payment. But with tens of thousands of people backing the Defund the BBC campaign it could see many of them stopping paying the £157.50 licence fee.
BBC humiliation: MPs to decriminalise non-payment of licence fee
The BBC will no longer be able to drag people who do not pay the licence to the criminal courts
The threat of decriminalisation comes amid widespread fury over the way the BBC tried to block playing Rule Britannia and Land of Hope and Glory on the last night of the Proms because of claims it was linked to slavery. The move was publicly criticised by Prime Minister Boris Johnson and the BBC decided to play the tunes but not have the words sung in a move it said would only happen this year. Meanwhile, there is continuing anger over the way the BBC reneged on its agreement to pay for the free licence fee for all over-75s. Questions also continue to be asked about the high salaries of its presenters including £1.8 million for Gary Linekar to present football highlights on Match of the Day. There are also concerns that the BBC has not show impartiality on major issues particularly Brexit where it was consistently accused of being pro-Remain in the balance of its coverage.
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thedailyexpress--2020-08-29--END OF BORIS: Top minister in £1m plot for takeover as PM ‘to quit in next year’

The Prime Minister last week described reports he would go early as “ absolute nonsense ” .
The denial followed Sir Henry Wakefield , the father-in-law to Mr Johnson ’ s chief of staff Dominic Cummings , reportedly telling a friend on a walk that the Prime Minister was struggling to recover from coronavirus and would be gone in six months .
But Tory MPs are now questioning whether the Prime Minister “ has the stomach to continue ” and are concerned about the number of U-turns performed by the government during the coronavirus pandemic .
The A-levels U-turn to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MPs think should have been corrected before a change in policy was needed , has been described as “ the last straw ” but some .
But the overall handling of coronavirus and a widespread belief that the government has “ pursued a socialist line ” on the disease and went “ way too far with lockdown measures ” destroying the economy is at the heart of the anger among many Conservatives .
The leadership bid meeting took place at a location in Mayfair last week with sources saying the minister “ needed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ establish a campaign USP ” .
It had been set up because friends of the MP believe “ the writing is on the wall for the Prime Minister ” .
According to Boyle Sport Chancellor Rishi Sunak is the favourite to replace Mr Johnson at 3/1 followed by Michael Gove 8/1 , Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab 12/1 and Home secretary Priti Patel 16/1 .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock is thought to have a chance to make a run at 20/1 , the same odds as foreign affairs select committee chairman Tom Tugendhat .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ private messaging Whatsapp groups are “ full of criticism and dissatisfaction ” with the government direction .
One said : “ We have a mixture of new MPs wondering when we are going to deliver on the manifesto we ran on in 2019 and old hands being highly critical of the current direction of the government.
” One Conservative source suggested Mr Johnson could be gone before the end of the year but the majority believe he wants to get Brexit over the line and complete the transition period with the EU by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He will want to complete Brexit , that will secure his legacy and will deliver on his biggest promise to the British people.
” Others are also concerned about his health since suffering from the disease early on and having a spell in hospital .
“ He came closer to dying than many people realise , ” said one source .
“ Other people in his position may not have been so lucky.
” “ He has definitely been lacking energy and there hasn ’ t ever been a point where we felt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another added .
But other MPs have warned their colleagues that speaking out against the Prime Minister is “ doing Labour ’ s work for them ” .
“ We have an 80 seat majority which he delivered and people now want to replace him , it ’ s bonkers , ” one MP told the Sunday Express .
“ These are unprecedented times and we have to look at what ’ s happening in that light , ” another said .

Brexit: Boris Johnson says a ‘deal is there to be done’
The Prime Minister last week described reports he would go early as “absolute nonsense”. The denial followed Sir Henry Wakefield, the father-in-law to Mr Johnson’s chief of staff Dominic Cummings, reportedly telling a friend on a walk that the Prime Minister was struggling to recover from coronavirus and would be gone in six months.
But Tory MPs are now questioning whether the Prime Minister “has the stomach to continue” and are concerned about the number of U-turns performed by the government during the coronavirus pandemic. The A-levels U-turn to cancel downgraded results, which many Tory MPs think should have been corrected before a change in policy was needed, has been described as “the last straw” but some. But the overall handling of coronavirus and a widespread belief that the government has “pursued a socialist line” on the disease and went “way too far with lockdown measures” destroying the economy is at the heart of the anger among many Conservatives. The leadership bid meeting took place at a location in Mayfair last week with sources saying the minister “needed time to prepare policies” and “establish a campaign USP”.
Top minister in £1m plot for takeover as Boris Johnson ‘to quit in next year’
According to Boyle Sport Chancellor Rishi Sunak is the favourite to replace Mr Johnson
It had been set up because friends of the MP believe “the writing is on the wall for the Prime Minister”. According to Boyle Sport Chancellor Rishi Sunak is the favourite to replace Mr Johnson at 3/1 followed by Michael Gove 8/1, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab 12/1 and Home secretary Priti Patel 16/1. Health Secretary Matt Hancock is thought to have a chance to make a run at 20/1, the same odds as foreign affairs select committee chairman Tom Tugendhat. According to backbenchers, Tory MPs’ private messaging Whatsapp groups are “full of criticism and dissatisfaction” with the government direction. One said: “We have a mixture of new MPs wondering when we are going to deliver on the manifesto we ran on in 2019 and old hands being highly critical of the current direction of the government.” One Conservative source suggested Mr Johnson could be gone before the end of the year but the majority believe he wants to get Brexit over the line and complete the transition period with the EU by December 31.
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thedailyexpress--2020-08-29--Brexiteer hails chance to forge powerful post-Brexit alliance to spearhead Global Britain

The UK formally left the European Union in January this year and trade negotiations are currently ongoing with neither side able to come to any agreement .
Crucial talks have been extended until the end of October .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson is aiming to end the transition period in December , with or without a deal in place .
While negotiations are stalemate , Brexiteer and MP for Shrewsbury and Atcham , Mr Kawczynski , said the UK can re-engage on our own terms and suggested the Visegrád group is the best place to start .
This is an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the Czech Republic and is known as the V4 .
These countries have come together to cooperate on matters such as military , economy , culture and energy .
In his latest column in Country Squire , Mr Kawczynski urged for an alliance with the V4 and said the top agenda lies in the danger posed by Russia .
said : “ Critics of Brexit are fond of pointing out that the United Kingdom is no longer a ‘ great power ’ .
“ But this overlooks that being a middle power @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are for sound historical reasons very wary of being dominated by a ‘ great power ’ .
“ This is especially true in Eastern Europe .
“ Outside the EU , Britain has a chance to forge a new role as an ambassador for the Atlantic system who can work with the V4 , and others , on friendly and most importantly equal terms .
Mr Kawczynski argued the V4 nations are concerned about a project which increases Europe ’ s dependency on Russian gas after Germany is working with Moscow on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MISS Brussels panic : Canada hints EU will give into UK Brexit demands [ REVEAL ] Labour civil war : John McDonnell plotted COUP against Jeremy Corbyn [ INSIGHT ] Brexiteer admits HUGE mistake by No10 has allowed EU to make gains [ COMMENT ] He continued : “ The V4 nations , especially Poland , are deeply concerned about a project which will increase European dependence on Russian gas whilst bypassing Eastern Europe , and are already working with the Americans to develop an alternative .
“ Britain should give those efforts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ British alliance , tied into the broader Atlantic system , would also provide the V4 with an alternative to potential domination by either Russia or Germany .
“ For obvious historical reasons , they are extremely sensitive about either prospect .
“ Several of the V4 governments have been criticised for being too close to Russia .
“ But it is understandable that they give short shrift to such complaints from Germany and its allies inside the EU given Berlin ’ s own closeness to Moscow .
“ A London-Visegrad partnership , by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to secure the V4 ’ s position in the democratic West with an alliance untainted by the shadows of recent European history .
”

Visegrad group leaders meet in Budapest to discuss EU
The UK formally left the European Union in January this year and trade negotiations are currently ongoing with neither side able to come to any agreement. Crucial talks have been extended until the end of October.
Trending
Prime Minister Boris Johnson is aiming to end the transition period in December, with or without a deal in place. While negotiations are stalemate, Brexiteer and MP for Shrewsbury and Atcham, Mr Kawczynski, said the UK can re-engage on our own terms and suggested the Visegrád group is the best place to start. This is an alliance between Poland, Slovakia, Hungary and the Czech Republic and is known as the V4. These countries have come together to cooperate on matters such as military, economy, culture and energy.
Brexiteer hails chance to forge powerful alliance
MP for Shrewsbury and Atcham, Daniel Kawczynski
In his latest column in Country Squire, Mr Kawczynski urged for an alliance with the V4 and said the top agenda lies in the danger posed by Russia. said: “Critics of Brexit are fond of pointing out that the United Kingdom is no longer a ‘great power’. “But this overlooks that being a middle power has its uses. “Many countries are for sound historical reasons very wary of being dominated by a ‘great power’. READ MORE: Guy Verhofstadt brutally mocked over latest Brexit rant ‘Delusional!'
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Visegrad leaders meet this year
“This is especially true in Eastern Europe. “Outside the EU, Britain has a chance to forge a new role as an ambassador for the Atlantic system who can work with the V4, and others, on friendly and most importantly equal terms. “We must seize this opportunity.” Mr Kawczynski argued the V4 nations are concerned about a project which increases Europe’s dependency on Russian gas after Germany is working with Moscow on the Nord Stream II pipeline. DON'T MISS
Brussels panic: Canada hints EU will give into UK Brexit demands [REVEAL]
Labour civil war: John McDonnell plotted COUP against Jeremy Corbyn [INSIGHT]
Brexiteer admits HUGE mistake by No10 has allowed EU to make gains [COMMENT]
Economic loss per EU state in no deal outcome
He continued: “The V4 nations, especially Poland, are deeply concerned about a project which will increase European dependence on Russian gas whilst bypassing Eastern Europe, and are already working with the Americans to develop an alternative. “Britain should give those efforts its full support. “A strong British alliance, tied into the broader Atlantic system, would also provide the V4 with an alternative to potential domination by either Russia or Germany. “For obvious historical reasons, they are extremely sensitive about either prospect.
An alliance with the V4 could counter Russia
“Several of the V4 governments have been criticised for being too close to Russia. “But it is understandable that they give short shrift to such complaints from Germany and its allies inside the EU given Berlin’s own closeness to Moscow. “A London-Visegrad partnership, by contrast, would give us a chance to secure the V4’s position in the democratic West with an alliance untainted by the shadows of recent European history.”
Germany working with Moscow on Nord Stream II pipe


thedailyexpress--2020-08-29--Guy Verhofstadt brutally mocked over latest Brexit rant ‘Delusional on so many levels!’

The German MEP took to Twitter to congratulate Sir Ed Davey after he won the Lib Dem leadership contest .
But Mr Verhofstadt could not resist taking a swipe at Brexit in his post .
The MEP said : “ Congratulations @ EdwardJDavey on your election to lead the @ LibDems .
“ As an internationalist with conviction , I know you & your party have the chance to change this !
” Former Brexit Party MEP Belinda de Lucy hit back : “ Guy - you were a gift to the Brexit cause personifying the most frightening elements of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a reason the LibDems TANKED at the last election .
You were a tiny part of that .
We thank you.
” Another Twitter user simply wrote : “ Delusional on so many levels.
” READ MORE : Guy Verhofstadt mercilessly mocked by Brexiteers after EU tweet “ Have n't you learned the difference between Europe and the EU yet ?
“ One is a continent and the other is a failed trading project with awful federalist political ambitions.
” Another said : “ 11 MPs , they couldn ’ t change a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who can hold their party conference in a phone box and still maintain social distancing.
” A fifth added : “ No Guy , the voters chose to leave your club , the government are merely doing what was promised .
DO N'T MISS Verhofstadt told to 'keep his nose out ' after attack on UK plan [ INSIGHT ] 'That 's what caused Brexit ! '
Anger at Verhofstadt 's EU exit rant [ TWEET ] Guy Verhofstadt ’ s ‘ cynical ’ plot to see Brexit Britain suffer exposed [ ANALYSIS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alien concept to you now but , thankfully , we still use this quaint system.
” One more blasted : “ The Lib Dems don ’ t even have enough members of Parliament to fill a phone box , Guy .
`` Proving once again you know little of British politics .
“ We are leaving and I guarantee other members states will soon follow .
You are just going to have to accept it.
” Sir Ed was elected as the new Lib Dem leader on Friday .
The Kingston and Surbiton @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jo Swinson lost her seat in the 2019 general election .
Sir Ed defeated Layla Moran to win the leadership by 42,756 votes to 24,564 .
He admitted he has to turn the pro-EU party around after `` three disappointing general election results '' .

Brexit: Guy Verhofstadt says he will 'miss' UK MEPs
The MEP took to Twitter to congratulate Sir Ed Davey after he won the Lib Dem leadership contest. But Mr Verhofstadt could not resist taking a swipe at Brexit in his post.
The MEP said: “Congratulations @EdwardJDavey on your election to lead the @LibDems. “The radicalised Tory party of 2020 chooses isolationism & anti-European dogma over cooperation. “As an internationalist with conviction, I know you & your party have the chance to change this!” Mr Verhofstadt’s tweet prompted a strong reaction from Brexiteers.
Guy Verhofstadt has been brutally mocked after his latest dig at Brexit
The MEP took to Twitter to congratulate Sir Ed Davey after he won the Lib Dem leadership contest
Former Brexit Party MEP Belinda de Lucy hit back: “Guy - you were a gift to the Brexit cause personifying the most frightening elements of the EU project. “There is a reason the LibDems TANKED at the last election. You were a tiny part of that. We thank you.” Another Twitter user simply wrote: “Delusional on so many levels.” A third commented: “Not 'anti-European', it's 'anti-EU'. A big difference. READ MORE: Guy Verhofstadt mercilessly mocked by Brexiteers after EU tweet
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Mr Verhofstadt could not resist taking a swipe at Brexit in his post
Congratulations @EdwardJDavey on your election to lead the @LibDems.
The radicalised Tory party of 2020 chooses isolationism & anti-European dogma over cooperation. As an internationalist with conviction, I know you & your party have the chance to change this! ������������������������ — Guy Verhofstadt (@guyverhofstadt) August 27, 2020
“I know voting is an alien concept to you now but, thankfully, we still use this quaint system.” One more blasted: “The Lib Dems don’t even have enough members of Parliament to fill a phone box, Guy. "Proving once again you know little of British politics. “We are leaving and I guarantee other members states will soon follow. You are just going to have to accept it.”
Mr Verhofstadt’s tweet prompted a strong reaction from Brexiteers
Sir Ed was elected as the new Lib Dem leader on Friday
Sir Ed was elected as the new Lib Dem leader on Friday. The Kingston and Surbiton MP has been acting leader since arch-Remainer Jo Swinson lost her seat in the 2019 general election. Sir Ed defeated Layla Moran to win the leadership by 42,756 votes to 24,564. He admitted he has to turn the pro-EU party around after "three disappointing general election results".
Five key moments that led to Brexit
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-08-29--Hands off! SNP lashes out at UK as Scotland faces controversial justice loss

Justice Secretary Robert Buckland QC has started a review of the judicial review concept , a procedure by which a court can review an administrative action by a public authority .
The concept can hold public bodies and governments to account for the legality of their actions .
Mr Buckland , who is also the Lord Chancellor , said the review would apply to all legal systems in the UK .
But the move could trigger the end of the Union , with the SNP raising significant concerns about the independence of the Scottish legal system , which are separate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Joanna Cherry QC , the SNP ’ s Home Affairs and Justice spokesperson , warned the concept could be another “ attack on devolution ” and a breach of the Act of Union 1707 .
She stressed the much-cherished power of judicial review in Scotland would be suppressed .
Ms Cherry , who is also an MP at Westminster , said in a letter to Mr Buckland : “ As you will be aware , Scotland ’ s system of civil justice is a devolved matter under the Scotland Act and therefore the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Moreover , the authority and privileges of the Court of Session including its inherent supervisory jurisdiction are protected by Article 19 of the Acts of Union and the underlying Treaty of Union .
“ The scope of the review also raises serious questions for the rule of law which will be of concern across the UK.
” She stressed the British Parliament can not infer with the Scottish legal system and suggested we may even get a “ ruling on the legal status of the treaty of union.
” READ MORE : Nicola @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blunder Article 19 of the 1707 Act guarantees Scotland and England for all time “ the same authority and privileges ” as before the Union .
Roddy Dunlop QC , Dean of the Faculty of Advocates , who represent Scottish Lawyers , told Express.co.uk they would be concerned by any suggestion that the “ executive might interfere with the ability of the independent judiciary to check abuse of executive power.
” They added : “ The separation of powers is ingrained in our constitution , as are the powers of the Court of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and devolved – to account .
“ Judges do not engage in politics .
DO N'T MISS : Brexiteer admits HUGE mistake by No10 has allowed EU to make gains [ REVEAL ] SNP ordered to ‘ get off the sidelines ’ as Nicola Sturgeon attacked [ INSIGHT ] Nicola Sturgeon sets out vision for new SNP Scottish Bank [ LATEST ] “ They decide cases based on the rule of law .
“ Political interference with the ability of judges to decide cases in accordance with the rule of law would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ previously suggested Scotland could gain independence by using next year 's Holyrood election as a proxy ballot on independence .
The MP called on Nicola Sturgeon to consider the option if Boris Johnson decides to refuse a second vote .

Question Time: Joanna Cherry predicts end of UK in 'ten years'
Justice Secretary Robert Buckland QC has started a review of the judicial review concept, a procedure by which a court can review an administrative action by a public authority. The concept can hold public bodies and governments to account for the legality of their actions.
Trending
Mr Buckland, who is also the Lord Chancellor, said the review would apply to all legal systems in the UK. But the move could trigger the end of the Union, with the SNP raising significant concerns about the independence of the Scottish legal system, which are separate to the England and Wales system. Joanna Cherry QC, the SNP’s Home Affairs and Justice spokesperson, warned the concept could be another “attack on devolution” and a breach of the Act of Union 1707. She stressed the much-cherished power of judicial review in Scotland would be suppressed.
A new row has erupted over the Act of the Union
The Scottish system for judicial reviews could loose it's independence
Ms Cherry, who is also an MP at Westminster, said in a letter to Mr Buckland: “As you will be aware, Scotland’s system of civil justice is a devolved matter under the Scotland Act and therefore the preserve of the Scottish Parliament. “Moreover, the authority and privileges of the Court of Session including its inherent supervisory jurisdiction are protected by Article 19 of the Acts of Union and the underlying Treaty of Union. “The scope of the review also raises serious questions for the rule of law which will be of concern across the UK.” She stressed the British Parliament cannot infer with the Scottish legal system and suggested we may even get a “ruling on the legal status of the treaty of union.” READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon forced into humiliating apology after £140k blunder
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The plans have been rebuffed by the SNP
Article 19 of the 1707 Act guarantees Scotland and England for all time “the same authority and privileges” as before the Union. Roddy Dunlop QC, Dean of the Faculty of Advocates, who represent Scottish Lawyers, told Express.co.uk they would be concerned by any suggestion that the “executive might interfere with the ability of the independent judiciary to check abuse of executive power.” They added: “The separation of powers is ingrained in our constitution, as are the powers of the Court of Session to hold governments – both UK and devolved – to account. “Judges do not engage in politics. DON'T MISS:
Brexiteer admits HUGE mistake by No10 has allowed EU to make gains [REVEAL]
SNP ordered to ‘get off the sidelines’ as Nicola Sturgeon attacked [INSIGHT]
Nicola Sturgeon sets out vision for new SNP Scottish Bank [LATEST]
Joanne Cherry said the plans undermine devolution
“They decide cases based on the rule of law. “Political interference with the ability of judges to decide cases in accordance with the rule of law would be unconstitutional and unacceptable.” Ms Cherry has previously suggested Scotland could gain independence by using next year's Holyrood election as a proxy ballot on independence. The MP called on Nicola Sturgeon to consider the option if Boris Johnson decides to refuse a second vote.
Robert Buckland QC is leading the reforms


thedailyexpress--2020-08-30--Bad news, Boris! SNP gloats after Tories humiliated in new poll!

The results left the SNP gloating in Westminster , with one senior politician claiming it showed they were `` winning '' the battle .
The Panelbase poll asked respondents whether they agreed or disagreed with the statement : “ I have more confidence in the economic competence of the Scottish Government in Edinburgh than in the UK Government in Westminster ?
” The results showed 59 percent of Scots have more confidence in the Scottish Government to manage the economy compared with the Government in Westminster .
This was compared to 26 percent who trusted Boris Johnson over the Scottish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were n't sure .
A second statement , which respondents were asked for their views on , said : “ Independence would be good for Scotland ’ s economy . ''
The results showed 48 percent agreed independence would be good for the economy compared to just 38 percent who didn ’ t agree .
The final statement said : “ Brexit will be good for Scotland ’ s economy.
” In response , excluding those who said they did n't know , 68 percent thought Brexit would be bad for Scotland ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Labour voters , 89 percent of Lib Dems and 84 percent of SNP supporters .
Pro-independence organisation Business for Scotland commissioned the poll for Panelbase , with chief executive Gordon MacIntyre-Kemp hailing the results .
READ MORE : SNP 's new hate crime law could 'see police action for Private views He added : “ That ’ s a massive indictment of Boris Johnson ’ s government and the of the economic credentials of British nationalism .
“ Scotland ’ s economy is run by Westminster and the Conservative Government ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in handling COVID-19 , including the threat to end the furlough scheme at the end of October regardless of the needs of business , is driving more and more people to believe in Scotland ’ s ability to manage its own economy .
“ I am tempted to ask how anyone could possibly think it couldn ’ t ?
“ Brexit and the economic mismanagement of the Westminster Government are the key factors driving support for Scottish independence .
DO N'T MISS : Nicola Sturgeon accused of scoring political points with BBC briefings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lashes out at UK as Scotland faces controversial loss [ INSIGHT ] Nicola Sturgeon forced into humiliating apology after £140k blunder [ LATEST ] “ The UK was held together in 2014 by economic scaremongering and the promise that the UK would stay in the EU .
“ Brexit has already disproved one of those unionist promises and is now dismantling the economic case for the UK.
” Keith Brown MSP , deputy leader of the SNP , added : “ This is a ringing endorsement of the SNP ’ s record in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their trust in Nicola Sturgeon instead of Boris Johnson .
“ It ’ s also more evidence , if we needed it , that we are winning the argument over Scotland ’ s future .

John Curtice: Sturgeon 'ahead' of Johnson in COVID-19 polls
The results left the SNP gloating in Westminster, with one senior politician claiming it showed they were "winning" the battle. The Panelbase poll asked respondents whether they agreed or disagreed with the statement: “I have more confidence in the economic competence of the Scottish Government in Edinburgh than in the UK Government in Westminster?”
Trending
The results showed 59 percent of Scots have more confidence in the Scottish Government to manage the economy compared with the Government in Westminster. This was compared to 26 percent who trusted Boris Johnson over the Scottish government. The remaining 15 said they weren't sure. A second statement, which respondents were asked for their views on, said: “Independence would be good for Scotland’s economy." The results showed 48 percent agreed independence would be good for the economy compared to just 38 percent who didn’t agree.
The poll was undertaken by Panelbase
Support for the SNP sits at 59 percent
The final statement said: “Brexit will be good for Scotland’s economy.” In response, excluding those who said they didn't know, 68 percent thought Brexit would be bad for Scotland’s economy. This included 68 percent of Labour voters, 89 percent of Lib Dems and 84 percent of SNP supporters. Pro-independence organisation Business for Scotland commissioned the poll for Panelbase, with chief executive Gordon MacIntyre-Kemp hailing the results. READ MORE: SNP's new hate crime law could 'see police action for Private views
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The poll was commissioned by Business for Scotland
He added: “That’s a massive indictment of Boris Johnson’s government and the of the economic credentials of British nationalism. “Scotland’s economy is run by Westminster and the Conservative Government’s Brexit omni-shambles with its comparatively poor performance in handling COVID-19, including the threat to end the furlough scheme at the end of October regardless of the needs of business, is driving more and more people to believe in Scotland’s ability to manage its own economy. “I am tempted to ask how anyone could possibly think it couldn’t? “Brexit and the economic mismanagement of the Westminster Government are the key factors driving support for Scottish independence. DON'T MISS:
Nicola Sturgeon accused of scoring political points with BBC briefings [REVEAL]
Hands off! SNP lashes out at UK as Scotland faces controversial loss [INSIGHT]
Nicola Sturgeon forced into humiliating apology after £140k blunder [LATEST]
It comes amid shocking economic figures
“The UK was held together in 2014 by economic scaremongering and the promise that the UK would stay in the EU. “Brexit has already disproved one of those unionist promises and is now dismantling the economic case for the UK.” Keith Brown MSP, deputy leader of the SNP, added: “This is a ringing endorsement of the SNP’s record in government, with voters choosing to put their trust in Nicola Sturgeon instead of Boris Johnson. “It’s also more evidence, if we needed it, that we are winning the argument over Scotland’s future.
Only 26 percent of people had confidence in Westminster


thedailyexpress--2020-08-30--Labour SURGE: Boris blow as support plummets - furious Tories blame 'U-turn after U-turn!'

Voices of dissent have been growing louder within the Tory ranks over the last few weeks with some MPs defying the Prime Minister and openly challenging his decisions .
And with Parliament returning on Tuesday , the mood on the Tory benches will not have been helped by a new poll by an Opinium poll which shows Labour level pegging with the Conservatives for the first time since July 2019 .
The snapshot survey puts the Tories and Labour neck and neck on 40 percent .
At the end of March , shortly after Mr Johnson imposed the full lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 54 percent of the vote with Labour languishing on 28 percent as the party awaited the result of it 's leadership election in the wake of the disastrous Jeremy Corbyn era .
The Prime Minister 's personal ratings were also very positive at the time as the country looked to him to lead it through the terrifying early stages of the coronavirus pandemic .
But Mr Johnson is now consistently trailing well behind the approval ratings Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer .
Adam Drummond of Opinium said : “ This is the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2019 when both main parties were in freefall and losing votes to the Brexit party and the Liberal Democrats .
“ Since Boris Johnson became prime minister the Tories typically had a double digit lead , peaking in March/April this year when they were seen to be handling the pandemic and lockdown fairly well while Labour changed leader .
`` In the five months since that peak , the lead has gradually declined from 26 percent to 0 percent now.
” The Liberal Democrats , who elected former Cabinet minister Sir Ed Davey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 6 percent in the poll .
READ MORE : Coronavirus map LIVE : Here it comes again - UK on high alert Mr Johnson has been warned he could face a showdown with angry MPs when Parliament returns to work next week .
The handling of the coronavirus crisis - especially the fiasco over exam results - has provoked public concern from some Tory MPs throughout the summer .
A U-turn over whether English secondary-school pupils should wear masks in some situations also caused serious concern among some backbenchers over how the situation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accused of ducking personal responsibility for the exams farce after sacking the senior official at the Department for Education and then blaming the debacle on a `` mutant algorithm '' .
Conservative MPs , including many ex-ministers with extensive government experience , are also becoming increasingly angry that their voices and concerns , and those of senior Whitehall officials with many years of service , are being ignored and dismissed .
Sir Charles Walker , vice-chairman of the powerful 1922 committee of Conservative backbenchers , said it was becoming increasingly difficult for MPs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be abandoned quickly by ministers .
DO N'T MISS END OF BORIS : Top minister in £1m plot for takeover [ INSIGHT ] Boris has lost his grip and we are all paying for it - PAUL BALDWIN [ COMMENT ] Boris Johnson urges parents to send children back to school [ FOCUS ]

Boris Johnson’s sacking of Jonathan Slater discussed by expert
Voices of dissent have been growing louder within the Tory ranks over the last few weeks with some MPs defying the Prime Minister and openly challenging his decisions. And with Parliament returning on Tuesday, the mood on the Tory benches will not have been helped by a new poll by an Opinium poll which shows Labour level pegging with the Conservatives for the first time since July 2019. The snapshot survey puts the Tories and Labour neck and neck on 40 percent.
It is becoming increasingly difficult for backbenchers now to promote and defend government policy Sir Charles Walker
At the end of March, shortly after Mr Johnson imposed the full lockdown, the Conservatives were surging ahead on 54 percent of the vote with Labour languishing on 28 percent as the party awaited the result of it's leadership election in the wake of the disastrous Jeremy Corbyn era. The Prime Minister's personal ratings were also very positive at the time as the country looked to him to lead it through the terrifying early stages of the coronavirus pandemic. But Mr Johnson is now consistently trailing well behind the approval ratings Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer.
Boris Johnson can expect a fiery reception from Tory backbenchers when Parliament returns to work
Adam Drummond of Opinium said: “This is the first time Labour have drawn level since July 2019 when both main parties were in freefall and losing votes to the Brexit party and the Liberal Democrats. “Since Boris Johnson became prime minister the Tories typically had a double digit lead, peaking in March/April this year when they were seen to be handling the pandemic and lockdown fairly well while Labour changed leader. "In the five months since that peak, the lead has gradually declined from 26 percent to 0 percent now.” The Liberal Democrats, who elected former Cabinet minister Sir Ed Davey as leader this week, stood at 6 percent in the poll. READ MORE: Coronavirus map LIVE: Here it comes again - UK on high alert
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Boris Johnson came under fire for the exams fiasco
Tory backbenchers fear the party is being damaged by Government U-turns
Mr Johnson has been warned he could face a showdown with angry MPs when Parliament returns to work next week. The handling of the coronavirus crisis - especially the fiasco over exam results - has provoked public concern from some Tory MPs throughout the summer. A U-turn over whether English secondary-school pupils should wear masks in some situations also caused serious concern among some backbenchers over how the situation was being handled. Mr Johnson was accused of ducking personal responsibility for the exams farce after sacking the senior official at the Department for Education and then blaming the debacle on a "mutant algorithm".
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Keir Starmer's Labour Party has pulled level with the Tories in the opinion polls


thedailyexpress--2020-08-30--Oh dear, Nicola! Sturgeon warned Scots will leave county over SNP's independence bid

Nicola Sturgeon 's dreams of an independent Scotland have been torn apart by George Galloway , who explained how the move would be `` damaging '' to the public .
He claimed Scots would move out of the country if Scotland left the UK .
It comes as Prime Minister Boris Johnson has denied SNP a second vote on the referendum for Scottish independence .
Speaking to Express.co.uk , Mr Galloway said : `` The carnage that would have to be wreaked on the public sphere would be extraordinarily damaging .
`` There would be a flight of capital , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ especially the best-earning people .
`` Do n't get me started on how the Scottish people would feel if they did join the European Union and huge numbers of workers and cheap labour began arriving from eastern Europe . ''
READ MORE : SNP 's new hate crime law could 'see police action for Private views It comes after Scottish Finance Secretary Kate Forbes received a vicious backlash online after she defended Ms Sturgeon 's plans for an independent Scotland .
SNP MSP Kate Forbes argued Scotland 's large deficit was not a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as she highlighted independent countries with huge deficits during the coronavirus pandemic .
But ITV presenter Peter MacMahon noted an independent Scotland would take a share of the UK 's deficit , meaning the country would have a higher deficit than Britain .
Twitter users have hit out at the finance secretary for comparing Scotland 's deficit to other countries during a global pandemic .
Speaking to ITV 's Representing Border , Ms Forbes said : `` Across the world countries operate with deficits .
`` We have seen unprecedented borrowing from countries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ countries including the UK Government whose deficit is set to rise to £372billion this year .
`` I do n't see any of those countries suddenly deciding that they no longer want to be independent .
`` The difference between them and Scotland is they have the powers and levers to manage a deficit .
Nicola Sturgeon accused of scoring political points with BBC briefings [ INSIGHT ] Nicola Sturgeon has thrown children under bus [ COMMENT ] Hands off !
SNP lashes out at UK as Scotland faces controversial loss [ ANALYSIS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could use to invest in the economy and to manage our public finances far more sustainably than they are currently managed under this arrangement . ''
Mr MacMahon said : `` If Scotland were independent it would take a share of that UK deficit and it would add to the deficit we know it has .
The deficit of an independent Scotland would be even higher than a UK deficit . ''
Her comments have since sparked a backlash on Twitter .
One user wrote : `` Not convinced that equating Scotland 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other countries during the economic crisis created by an unprecedented global pandemic is that solid an argument . ''
Another added : `` Good God .
Pretty troubling that she does n't understand the basics of the financial situation facing Scotland . ''

Nicola Sturgeon’s strategy is ‘disastrous’ claims George Galloway
Nicola Sturgeon's dreams of an independent Scotland have been torn apart by George Galloway, who explained how the move would be "damaging" to the public. He claimed Scots would move out of the country if Scotland left the UK. It comes as Prime Minister Boris Johnson has denied SNP a second vote on the referendum for Scottish independence.
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Speaking to Express.co.uk, Mr Galloway said: "The carnage that would have to be wreaked on the public sphere would be extraordinarily damaging. "There would be a flight of capital, there would be a flight of people especially the best-earning people. "It's a disastrous strategy. "Don't get me started on how the Scottish people would feel if they did join the European Union and huge numbers of workers and cheap labour began arriving from eastern Europe." READ MORE: SNP's new hate crime law could 'see police action for Private views
Nicola Sturgeon has been warned that Scottish people and businesses could move
George Galloway claimed that Scots would move if the country becomes independent
It comes after Scottish Finance Secretary Kate Forbes received a vicious backlash online after she defended Ms Sturgeon's plans for an independent Scotland. SNP MSP Kate Forbes argued Scotland's large deficit was not a reason for it not to become independent as she highlighted independent countries with huge deficits during the coronavirus pandemic. But ITV presenter Peter MacMahon noted an independent Scotland would take a share of the UK's deficit, meaning the country would have a higher deficit than Britain. Twitter users have hit out at the finance secretary for comparing Scotland's deficit to other countries during a global pandemic.
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Nicola Sturgeon has been campaigning for another independence referendum
Nicola Sturgeon grilled on Scottish deficit by Richard Leonard
Speaking to ITV's Representing Border, Ms Forbes said: "Across the world countries operate with deficits. "We have seen unprecedented borrowing from countries around the world. Small and large countries including the UK Government whose deficit is set to rise to £372billion this year. "I don't see any of those countries suddenly deciding that they no longer want to be independent. "The difference between them and Scotland is they have the powers and levers to manage a deficit. DON'T MISS Nicola Sturgeon accused of scoring political points with BBC briefings [INSIGHT]
Nicola Sturgeon has thrown children under bus [COMMENT]
Hands off! SNP lashes out at UK as Scotland faces controversial loss [ANALYSIS]
Scotland independence


thedailyexpress--2020-08-30--END OF BORIS: Top minister in £1m plot for takeover as PM ‘to quit in next year’


thedailyexpress--2020-08-30--RED WAR: Scottish Labour defies Keir Starmer as it opposes second independence referendum

Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard defied Sir Keir Starmer as he said the party is opposed to a second referendum on Scottish independence .
But UK Labour has not chosen a side after Sir Keir told reporters in January the SNP will have a mandate to hold a second vote if they win the 2021 Holyrood election .
He added Labour would not block another referendum if there was a pro-independence majority after the election .
Speaking to ITV 's Representing Border , Mr Leonard said : `` We are clearly saying that we are opposed to a second independence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dedication of the next Scottish Parliament and the next Scottish Government should be on rebuilding the economy and revitalising our public services .
`` It should be looking at how we can build a better care system , which has been exposed as being fragmented and weak.
” Presenter Peter MacMahon asked : `` Is that the official policy of the Scottish Labour party and the UK Labour party because very early on when he was campaigning , I spoke to Sir Keir Starmer .
READ MORE : Nicola Sturgeon warned Scots will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said if the SNP get a majority in the next election do they have a mandate for a second referendum ?
And he said yes . ''
The Scottish Labour leader added : `` A lot of this has been framed on if there were to be a future Labour Government at Westminster , how would they react .
`` What I 'm saying is the position of the Scottish Labour is clear that we are going into next year 's election saying we are standing on a platform saying we are opposing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are the priorities for the next five years - it 's not independence , it 's not constitutional change .
We should not get bogged down in a debate for the next five in a wrangle between an SNP and Tory administration . ''
The Holyrood election will be held on May 6 , 2021 .
On the ITV show , former SNP Cabinet Secretary Alex Neil also explained the difficulties Scotland would face if it were to create a customs border between it and the rest of the UK .
He said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be a significant border between Scotland and England .
Hands off !
SNP lashes out at UK as Scotland faces controversial loss [ INSIGHT ] Nicola Sturgeon challenged to answer THREE questions on independence [ ANALYSIS ] Andrew Neil hits out at SNP as he highlights flaw in independence bid [ VIDEO ] '' You 've got to be honest about these matters because if Scotland was in a customs union i.e .
the EU and the rest of the UK was not by definition , we have to have custom barriers between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I do n't believe people in another independence referendum will vote for that .
`` There is a better alternative and that is for an independent Scotland to join the European free trade association .
`` That gives us free trade with the entirety of Europe , not just those in the EU through the European economic area without the downside of being in a customs union and many other downsides in relation to EU membership . ''

Indyref2: Richard Leonard outlines Scottish Labour's position
Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard defied Sir Keir Starmer as he said the party is opposed to a second referendum on Scottish independence. But UK Labour has not chosen a side after Sir Keir told reporters in January the SNP will have a mandate to hold a second vote if they win the 2021 Holyrood election. He added Labour would not block another referendum if there was a pro-independence majority after the election.
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Speaking to ITV's Representing Border, Mr Leonard said: "We are clearly saying that we are opposed to a second independence referendum. "The entire focus and dedication of the next Scottish Parliament and the next Scottish Government should be on rebuilding the economy and revitalising our public services. "It should be looking at how we can build a better care system, which has been exposed as being fragmented and weak.” Presenter Peter MacMahon asked: "Is that the official policy of the Scottish Labour party and the UK Labour party because very early on when he was campaigning, I spoke to Sir Keir Starmer. READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon warned Scots will leave county over independence bid
Richard Leonard said Scottish Labour will oppose a second referendum
Nicola Sturgeon has been campaigning for another independence referendum
"I said if the SNP get a majority in the next election do they have a mandate for a second referendum? And he said yes." The Scottish Labour leader added: "A lot of this has been framed on if there were to be a future Labour Government at Westminster, how would they react. "What I'm saying is the position of the Scottish Labour is clear that we are going into next year's election saying we are standing on a platform saying we are opposing a second independence referendum. "These are the priorities for the next five years - it's not independence, it's not constitutional change. We should not get bogged down in a debate for the next five in a wrangle between an SNP and Tory administration."
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Sir Keir has said SNP will have a mandate if they get a majority
Scotland: Kate Forbes grilled on unity with UK by BBC host
Scotland independence


thedailyexpress--2020-08-30--Scotland's hate crime shame: Atheists vow to use SNP law to target religious groups

Atheist Scotland said it planned to monitor scripture , sermons in places of worship and social media accounts “ and report any hatred to Police Scotland for criminal investigation.
” In a letter to a local newspaper , Ian Stewart , the group ’ s convener , argued the move would prevent religious leaders from expressing “ vitriol ” against a variety of groups including trans people and homosexuals .
But campaigners said the intervention reinforced fears that the Hate Crime and Public Order Bill would be abused by “ politically-motivated complainants ” to shut down free speech .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , warned ministers they could “ expose church ministers to the risk of prosecution at the instigation of anti-religious zealots.
” The law would make “ stirring up hatred ” against certain groups a criminal offence , even if a person making the remarks had not intended to do so or made them in private .
Opponents fear the broadly defined and “ vague ” term could lead to an avalanche of police investigations .
Those found guilty would face up to seven years in jail .
Groups including the Law Society of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scottish Police Federation have already condemned the proposals as an attack on free speech .
Scotland ’ s Catholic bishops warned last month that possessing the Bible could also become an offence .
The Catholic Church said the legislation created an offence of possessing inflammatory material and expressed concern the “ low threshold ” to meet this test “ could render material such as the Bible ... as being inflammatory under the new provision ” .
The Bishops ’ Conference of Scotland said their belief that a person ’ s sex and gender @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may also fall foul of the legislation .
However , Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf has insisted that JK Rowling would not have been prosecuted over her controversial views on transgender issues .
Writing to the Dundee Courier , Mr Stewart said : “ Atheists see some merit in Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf ’ s Hate Crime Bill , as it will enable the prosecution of all Scotland ’ s religions and their Holy Books for spreading hatred .
“ It is utterly unacceptable that in progressive , social democratic Scotland that squalid , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Holy Books , about control of women , goats or water should give Scotland ’ s ‘ Holy Willies ’ authority to spout out vitriol against atheists , agnostics , apostates , sceptics , non-believers , women , trans people and homosexuals.
” Campaigners said that he was at loggerheads with other atheists at the National Secular Society and the Humanist Society Scotland , who are opposed to the Bill .
Simon Calvert , the Christian Institute ’ s deputy director for public affairs , said : “ This is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ‘ stirring up hatred ’ offences are such a terrible idea .
“ They will give politically-motivated complainants like Mr Stewart a powerful weapon against their ideological opponents .
“ Vexatious activists will be able to dial 999 and accuse someone of stirring up hatred and the police may have no alternative but to investigate .
”

Scotland: Hate Crime Bill 'will cost a lot of money' says expert
Atheist Scotland said it planned to monitor scripture, sermons in places of worship and social media accounts “and report any hatred to Police Scotland for criminal investigation.” In a letter to a local newspaper, Ian Stewart, the group’s convener, argued the move would prevent religious leaders from expressing “vitriol” against a variety of groups including trans people and homosexuals.
But campaigners said the intervention reinforced fears that the Hate Crime and Public Order Bill would be abused by “politically-motivated complainants” to shut down free speech. The Christian Institute, which opposes the legislation, warned ministers they could “expose church ministers to the risk of prosecution at the instigation of anti-religious zealots.” The law would make “stirring up hatred” against certain groups a criminal offence, even if a person making the remarks had not intended to do so or made them in private. Opponents fear the broadly defined and “vague” term could lead to an avalanche of police investigations. Those found guilty would face up to seven years in jail. Groups including the Law Society of Scotland, the Catholic Church and the Scottish Police Federation have already condemned the proposals as an attack on free speech. Scotland’s Catholic bishops warned last month that possessing the Bible could also become an offence. The Catholic Church said the legislation created an offence of possessing inflammatory material and expressed concern the “low threshold” to meet this test “could render material such as the Bible...as being inflammatory under the new provision”.
Scotland's hate crime shame: Atheists vow to use SNP law to target religious groups
Humza Yousaf said JK Rowling would not have been prosecuted over her controversial views
The Bishops’ Conference of Scotland said their belief that a person’s sex and gender are “not fluid and changeable” may also fall foul of the legislation. However, Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf has insisted that JK Rowling would not have been prosecuted over her controversial views on transgender issues. Writing to the Dundee Courier, Mr Stewart said: “Atheists see some merit in Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf’s Hate Crime Bill, as it will enable the prosecution of all Scotland’s religions and their Holy Books for spreading hatred. “It is utterly unacceptable that in progressive, social democratic Scotland that squalid, Bronze Age village disputes, as described in the Holy Books, about control of women, goats or water should give Scotland’s ‘Holy Willies’ authority to spout out vitriol against atheists, agnostics, apostates, sceptics, non-believers, women, trans people and homosexuals.” Campaigners said that he was at loggerheads with other atheists at the National Secular Society and the Humanist Society Scotland, who are opposed to the Bill. Simon Calvert, the Christian Institute’s deputy director for public affairs, said: “This is a perfect illustration of why the dangerous new ‘stirring up hatred’ offences are such a terrible idea. “They will give politically-motivated complainants like Mr Stewart a powerful weapon against their ideological opponents. “Vexatious activists will be able to dial 999 and accuse someone of stirring up hatred and the police may have no alternative but to investigate.”
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