thedailyexpress--2020-02-12--Dominic Cummings taunts Cabinet ahead of reshuffle saying cartoons could do better job

In a baffling exchange with a television reporter , Dominic Cummings repeatedly referenced the Disney crime fighting PJ Masks gang and said they would outperform the Prime Minister ’ s top team .
Downing Street sources insisted the adviser , the father of a young child , was simply having a joke at the reporter ’ s expense .
But the comments are likely to be viewed as less than amusing by senior ministers as a number face the axe in a reshuffle tomorrow .
Mr Cummings , the architect of the Vote Leave Brexit campaign , has been a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson ’ s No 10 team .
But it is believed his desire for a massive shake-up of Whitehall and the Cabinet has been rebuffed in favour of a more modest overhaul .
Mr Cummings has also been a long term opponent of the controversial HS2 rail link the Prime Minister backed yesterday .
Confronted by the BBC outside his north London home about whether he had lost his influence , Mr Cummings replied : “ I think we need PJ Masks on the job.
” Pressed on why HS2 was going ahead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The night time is the right time to fight crime .
I ca n't think of a rhyme . ''
As the awkward exchange continued , he was asked about the reshuffle and replied : `` PJ Masks will do a greater job than all of them put together . ''
Senior ministers including Chancellor Sajid Javid , Home Secretary Priti Patel and Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab are expected to remain in place , while Downing Street has confirmed that Grant Shapps will stay on as Transport Secretary .
Mr Javid is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ despite his reported feud with Mr Cummings , but Defence Secretary Ben Wallace 's fate looks less certain .
The PM is widely expected to cut a number of women ministers from the eight in his 31-strong Cabinet , jeopardising the already poor gender balance .
Fearing she is among those to be cast aside , Business Secretary Andrea Leadsom issued a warning against `` male-dominated '' environments in a Daily Telegraph article .
A replacement Culture Secretary is also likely as the Government considers controversial changes to the BBC licence fee , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The PM must also find a new president of the COP26 environment summit in Glasgow , having provoked an attack on his green record from former minister Claire O'Neill when he sacked her .
Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Michael Gove appears to be the frontrunner having previously been environment secretary , but he refused to be drawn on his chances on Tuesday .
Steve Barclay will also be hoping to return to the Cabinet from the backbenches after his role as Brexit Secretary ended with the UK 's formal departure from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10 source said the seriousness of Mr Cumming ’ s answers to the reporter reflected how seriously he was taking the impromptu interview , adding he was “ maybe having a joke at the reporter ’ s expense ” .
They said Mr Cummings was “ focused on the country ’ s priorities ” as always .

Chief Special Adviser Dominic Cummings
In a baffling exchange with a television reporter, Dominic Cummings repeatedly referenced the Disney crime fighting PJ Masks gang and said they would outperform the Prime Minister’s top team. Downing Street sources insisted the adviser, the father of a young child, was simply having a joke at the reporter’s expense.
But the comments are likely to be viewed as less than amusing by senior ministers as a number face the axe in a reshuffle tomorrow. Mr Cummings, the architect of the Vote Leave Brexit campaign, has been a crucial figure at the heart of Mr Johnson’s No 10 team. But it is believed his desire for a massive shake-up of Whitehall and the Cabinet has been rebuffed in favour of a more modest overhaul. Mr Cummings has also been a long term opponent of the controversial HS2 rail link the Prime Minister backed yesterday. Confronted by the BBC outside his north London home about whether he had lost his influence, Mr Cummings replied: “I think we need PJ Masks on the job.”
Disney crime fighting PJ Masks gang
Pressed on why HS2 was going ahead despite his objections, he said: "The night time is the right time to fight crime. I can't think of a rhyme." As the awkward exchange continued, he was asked about the reshuffle and replied: "PJ Masks will do a greater job than all of them put together." Senior ministers including Chancellor Sajid Javid, Home Secretary Priti Patel and Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab are expected to remain in place, while Downing Street has confirmed that Grant Shapps will stay on as Transport Secretary. Mr Javid is expected to be safe at the Treasury despite his reported feud with Mr Cummings, but Defence Secretary Ben Wallace's fate looks less certain. The PM is widely expected to cut a number of women ministers from the eight in his 31-strong Cabinet, jeopardising the already poor gender balance. Fearing she is among those to be cast aside, Business Secretary Andrea Leadsom issued a warning against "male-dominated" environments in a Daily Telegraph article.
Chancellor Sajid Javid is expected to remain in place
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info


thedailyexpress--2020-02-12--UK terror laws debated as race on to change rules before next prisoner gets early release

The bill will ensure that terrorist offenders can not be released early without what the government says is a `` thorough risk assessment '' from the Parole Board .
Those who are deemed to still be a threat to public safety will be forced to spend the rest of their sentence behind bars , Ministers say .
Lawyers have warned the government that the legislation could be subjected to legal challenges from those already in prison who were sentenced under the current rules .
The legislation will cover offenders sentenced for offences such as training for terrorism , membership of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ terrorist publications .
It will end the current system of automatic halfway release for those who are handed standard determinate sentences , instead requiring them to spend a minimum of two-thirds of their term in prison .
Downing Street hopes to speed the legislation through parliament and pass it into law by the end of the month .
Ministers moved to bring in the laws urgently after the Streatham terror attack and aim to pass the legislation before the next terrorist is due to be released from prison on February 28 , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in three months have been carried out by convicted terrorists after they were released from prison .
Police chiefs have also warned the threat of terrorism is `` not diminishing '' .
The plans , which will affect around 50 prisoners , aim to make sure terrorist offenders serve two-thirds of their sentence before they are considered eligible for release , rather than the current halfway mark .
Before being freed they would need to be reviewed by a panel of specialist judges and psychiatrists at the Parole Board .
The legislation is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 27 and the Government will consider further legislative changes if necessary .
Announcing the timetable for the Bill , Commons Leader Jacob Rees-Mogg told MPs yesterday : `` I informed the House last week of the Government 's intention to introduce legislation to stop the automatic early release of prisoners convicted of terrorist offences .
`` Today the Government will introduce that legislation and tomorrow 's business will now be consideration of a business of the House motion followed by all stages of the Terrorist Offenders ( Restriction of Early Release ) Bill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` We on this side again repeat that terrorist prisoners should not be released automatically but subject to Parole Board assessment before release while serving their sentences . ''
Mr Rees-Mogg added that there would be an increase in resources available to the Parole Board and probation service .
`` The Treasury has approved an increase in resources to ensure that the costs of maintaining people in prison and the associated costs are affordable , '' he said .
Last week lawyers said they were gearing up for a legal fight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arguing the rules can not be brought into force against sentences already handed down .
But officials said they were confident they had the flexibility to change how an offender serves their sentence , by extending the time they spend behind bars rather than on licence .
In the third attack in as many months , Sudesh Amman wore a fake suicide belt as he grabbed a knife from a shop in Streatham High Road , south London , on Sunday , before stabbing two bystanders .
The 20-year-old had been jailed for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2018 , but was freed automatically halfway through his sentence less than a fortnight ago .

The scene where Usman Khan carried out a terror attack on pedestrians
The bill will ensure that terrorist offenders cannot be released early without what the government says is a "thorough risk assessment" from the Parole Board. Those who are deemed to still be a threat to public safety will be forced to spend the rest of their sentence behind bars, Ministers say.
Lawyers have warned the government that the legislation could be subjected to legal challenges from those already in prison who were sentenced under the current rules. The legislation will cover offenders sentenced for offences such as training for terrorism, membership of a proscribed organisation and the dissemination of terrorist publications. It will end the current system of automatic halfway release for those who are handed standard determinate sentences, instead requiring them to spend a minimum of two-thirds of their term in prison. Downing Street hopes to speed the legislation through parliament and pass it into law by the end of the month. Ministers moved to bring in the laws urgently after the Streatham terror attack and aim to pass the legislation before the next terrorist is due to be released from prison on February 28, with more scheduled in March. Two attacks in three months have been carried out by convicted terrorists after they were released from prison.
Sudesh Amman wore a fake suicide belt as he grabbed a knife from a shop in Streatham High Road
Police chiefs have also warned the threat of terrorism is "not diminishing". The plans, which will affect around 50 prisoners, aim to make sure terrorist offenders serve two-thirds of their sentence before they are considered eligible for release, rather than the current halfway mark. Before being freed they would need to be reviewed by a panel of specialist judges and psychiatrists at the Parole Board. The legislation is aiming to get royal assent on February 27 and the Government will consider further legislative changes if necessary. Announcing the timetable for the Bill, Commons Leader Jacob Rees-Mogg told MPs yesterday: "I informed the House last week of the Government's intention to introduce legislation to stop the automatic early release of prisoners convicted of terrorist offences. "Today the Government will introduce that legislation and tomorrow's business will now be consideration of a business of the House motion followed by all stages of the Terrorist Offenders (Restriction of Early Release) Bill."
Jacob Rees-Mogg, Leader of the House of Commons
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Shadow Commons leader Valerie Vaz said: "We on this side again repeat that terrorist prisoners should not be released automatically but subject to Parole Board assessment before release while serving their sentences." Mr Rees-Mogg added that there would be an increase in resources available to the Parole Board and probation service. "The Treasury has approved an increase in resources to ensure that the costs of maintaining people in prison and the associated costs are affordable," he said. Last week lawyers said they were gearing up for a legal fight against the Government over the plans, arguing the rules cannot be brought into force against sentences already handed down. But officials said they were confident they had the flexibility to change how an offender serves their sentence, by extending the time they spend behind bars rather than on licence. In the third attack in as many months, Sudesh Amman wore a fake suicide belt as he grabbed a knife from a shop in Streatham High Road, south London, on Sunday, before stabbing two bystanders. The 20-year-old had been jailed for possessing and distributing terrorist documents in December 2018, but was freed automatically halfway through his sentence less than a fortnight ago.
Jack Merritt, one of the young victims who died in the London Bridge attack last year


thedailyexpress--2020-02-11--Emily Thornberry savaged for battle with Boris Johnson in PMQs 'what do you actually do?'

Labour ’ s Emily Thornberry insisted she is the top candidate to succeed Jeremy Corbyn after 15 years of experience and time spent at the dispatch box against Boris Johnson .
The Shadow Foreign Secretary explained she has more experience than other candidates , Sir Keir Starmer , Lisa Nandy and Rebecca Long-Bailey .
Ms Thornberry added to be in PMQs , a leader has to be light on their feet .
Speaking on BBC Two ’ s Politics Live , Ms Thornberry said : “ What I ’ m asking people to do is to not think about who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left and who is going to take us to the right .
“ We should look at who is best for the job and I ’ ve been an MP for 15 years and I ’ ve done seven frontbench jobs .
“ I ’ ve done Prime Minister ’ s Questions and I ’ ve held Boris Johnson to account for a couple of years .
“ I think I ’ m a great candidate and obviously I would love to be on the ballot.
” READ MORE : Jeremy Corbyn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : 'He wanted out ! '
The Guardian ’ s Kate Proctor asked : “ You ’ ve made quite a lot of the fact that you ’ ve gone head to head with Boris Johnson in a way the other candidates haven ’ t .
“ I ’ m really intrigued to know what it is you think you so at the dispatch box that you think was so good ?
” “ I ’ m just saying in order to take on someone like that you don ’ t be a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on your feet , you have to be on top of the details and you have to have a personality as well .
“ In the two years I was taking him on , when we had urgent questions , he would never do it .
“ He knows of all the people that would take him on at the dispatch box , he has a woman problem , and that problem is me.
” It comes as Ms Thornberry was left squirming as BBC host Jo Coburn challenged the Labour frontbencher over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ host Jo Coburn quizzed the Labour frontbencher on her poor performance despite her being `` the most experienced '' candidate : `` Emily , you ’ re the only contender who isn ’ t yet guaranteed a spot on the final ballot .
Why not ?
Why are you not cutting through ? ''
SNP Shame : Tories furious as Cherry heckles Patel [ VIDEO ] Voters warn they will take YEARS to forgive ‘ smug ’ Corbyn [ INSIGHT ] WATCH Jeremy Corbyn caught picking his nose in Parliament [ VIDEO ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cutoff point , you ’ ve got to have 33 Labour Party constituency nominations – you ’ ve got 22 , I think .
`` I don ’ t know whether that ’ s a big mountain to climb or not , really .
Will you make it ? ''
Ms Thornberry admitted she does `` not know '' why people within the party are not backing her bid to succeed Jeremy Corbyn but insisted she has been `` learning a great deal '' while discussing with supporters about the future of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` I mean , I go around the country , have some great meetings .
I ’ ve met some really interesting people and I ’ m learning a great deal and I think people are pleased to see me because they want to talk .
”

Emily Thornberry on dispatch box clash with Boris Johnson
Labour’s Emily Thornberry insisted she is the top candidate to succeed Jeremy Corbyn after 15 years of experience and time spent at the dispatch box against Boris Johnson. The Shadow Foreign Secretary explained she has more experience than other candidates, Sir Keir Starmer, Lisa Nandy and Rebecca Long-Bailey. Ms Thornberry added to be in PMQs, a leader has to be light on their feet.
Speaking on BBC Two’s Politics Live, Ms Thornberry said: “What I’m asking people to do is to not think about who is going to take us to the left and who is going to take us to the right. “We should look at who is best for the job and I’ve been an MP for 15 years and I’ve done seven frontbench jobs. “I’ve done Prime Minister’s Questions and I’ve held Boris Johnson to account for a couple of years. “I think I’m a great candidate and obviously I would love to be on the ballot.” READ MORE: Jeremy Corbyn’s Brexit shambles exposed by Lord Owen: 'He wanted out!'
Emily Thornberry was savaged on BBC’s Politics Live
Emily Thornberry insisted she is the top candidate to succeed Jeremy Corbyn
The Guardian’s Kate Proctor asked: “You’ve made quite a lot of the fact that you’ve gone head to head with Boris Johnson in a way the other candidates haven’t. “I’m really intrigued to know what it is you think you so at the dispatch box that you think was so good?” Ms Thornberry replied: “He’s a clown and he’s liar and he’s superficial. “I’m just saying in order to take on someone like that you don’t be a clown but you have to be light on your feet, you have to be on top of the details and you have to have a personality as well.
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Emily Thornberry xplained she has more experience than other candidates
Labour leadership: Coburn grills Thornberry on final ballot spot
“In the two years I was taking him on, when we had urgent questions, he would never do it. “He knows of all the people that would take him on at the dispatch box, he has a woman problem, and that problem is me.” It comes as Ms Thornberry was left squirming as BBC host Jo Coburn challenged the Labour frontbencher over her poor performance. BBC Politics Live host Jo Coburn quizzed the Labour frontbencher on her poor performance despite her being "the most experienced" candidate: "Emily, you’re the only contender who isn’t yet guaranteed a spot on the final ballot. Why not? Why are you not cutting through?" DON'T MISS SNP Shame: Tories furious as Cherry heckles Patel [VIDEO]
Voters warn they will take YEARS to forgive ‘smug’ Corbyn [INSIGHT]
WATCH Jeremy Corbyn caught picking his nose in Parliament [VIDEO]
Brexit timeline
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-02-11--Labour risks £15MILLION in fines after ‘dirty tricks’ data row spectacularly backfires

Sir Keir has been accused of a data breach following claims his leadership campaign team accessed the party ’ s data to report rival Rebecca Long-Bailey .
It was revealed late last week there had been a complaint made to the information watchdog over allegations she breached data rules , with Sir Keir ’ s team allegedly being behind the sting .
Ms Long-Bailey ’ s campaign sent an email to Labour supporters that included a link to a database of potential backers who could be contacted , with the link having access the party ’ s hone book of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ However , after Mr Starmer ’ s team reported the potential breach to Labour , the party then in turn reported the Holborn and St Pancras MP to the information commissioner .
But now it has been revealed that the party itself could be liable for a fine of more than £15million .
This is because the party is listed as the “ data controller ” , meaning it is responsible for any breach in data security .
A Labour Party spokesman insisted the referral was made because Labour takes data protection responsibilities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ breaching data rules have increased hugely as a result of changes to the Data Protection Act last year .
To make matters worse , Rebecca Long-Bailey suggested the party was to blame for any potential breach because it hadn ’ t restricted access to the Dialogue membership database , she said in a statement .
The statement read : “ The investigation into Keir Starmer ’ s campaign over an alleged data breach should not be allowed to distract from a moment of significant importance in determining the future direction of our party @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has said previously , the accessibility of members ’ data stemmed from a failure to close Dialogue at the end of the general election campaign.
” It comes after Ms Long-Bailey was slammed for using “ dirty tricks ” , with political commentator Benedict Spence branding the behaviour “ Stalinist ” .
The Labour leadership contest furiously erupted when claims emerged that Sir Keir ’ s campaign improperly tried to access a Labour membership database , which they have denied .
READ NOW : Emily Thornberry savaged for battle with Boris Johnson in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ point to main rival Rebecca Long-Bailey as the source of the complaint , although her team have rejected the accusation .
Speaking to Sky News , political commentator Benedict Spence boiled the row down to “ Stalinists behaving like Stalinists ” and claimed that voters won ’ t “ really care too much ” .
Mr Spence said : “ It ’ s certainly not damaging Keir Starmer .
“ I think it ’ s interesting the accusations were made against members of his team , but information then comes out that certain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give it to certain candidates .
“ One doesn ’ t want to boil it down too much but it ’ s almost like Stalinists are always going to behave like Stalinists in terms of what they do with information , who they pass it to and how they use it .
DO N'T MISS : Labour accused of ‘ behaving like Stalinists ’ in leadership contest [ NEWS ] Jeremy Corbyn ’ s Brexit shambles exposed by Lord Owen : 'He wanted out ! '
[ LATEST ] SNP Shame : Tories @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] “ Ultimately I don ’ t think this going to harm Keir Starmer.
” He continued : “ I don ’ t think most people really care too much .
“ But I don ’ t think , in the grand scheme of things , that most members of the Labour Party are going to be put off by this story .
“ I think they ’ ll see it as dirty tricks.
” The Information Commissioner is looking into the allegations of “ data scraping ” by staff on Sir Keir @ @ @ @

Labour leadership: Party problems ‘won’t go away’ says Tory MP
Sir Keir has been accused of a data breach following claims his leadership campaign team accessed the party’s data to report rival Rebecca Long-Bailey. It was revealed late last week there had been a complaint made to the information watchdog over allegations she breached data rules, with Sir Keir’s team allegedly being behind the sting. Ms Long-Bailey’s campaign sent an email to Labour supporters that included a link to a database of potential backers who could be contacted, with the link having access the party’s hone book of contacts. This contravened Labour rules.
However, after Mr Starmer’s team reported the potential breach to Labour, the party then in turn reported the Holborn and St Pancras MP to the information commissioner. But now it has been revealed that the party itself could be liable for a fine of more than £15million. This is because the party is listed as the “data controller”, meaning it is responsible for any breach in data security. A Labour Party spokesman insisted the referral was made because Labour takes data protection responsibilities “extremely seriously”. Fines for breaching data rules have increased hugely as a result of changes to the Data Protection Act last year.
Labour has risked shooting itself in a humiliating faux pas
Rebecca Long-Bailey suggested the party was to blame for any potential breach
To make matters worse, Rebecca Long-Bailey suggested the party was to blame for any potential breach because it hadn’t restricted access to the Dialogue membership database, she said in a statement. The statement read: “The investigation into Keir Starmer’s campaign over an alleged data breach should not be allowed to distract from a moment of significant importance in determining the future direction of our party. “As Rebecca’s campaign has said previously, the accessibility of members’ data stemmed from a failure to close Dialogue at the end of the general election campaign.” It comes after Ms Long-Bailey was slammed for using “dirty tricks”, with political commentator Benedict Spence branding the behaviour “Stalinist”. The Labour leadership contest furiously erupted when claims emerged that Sir Keir’s campaign improperly tried to access a Labour membership database, which they have denied. READ NOW: Emily Thornberry savaged for battle with Boris Johnson in PMQs [NEWS]
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Sir Keir has been accused of a data breach
Fingers started to point to main rival Rebecca Long-Bailey as the source of the complaint, although her team have rejected the accusation. Speaking to Sky News, political commentator Benedict Spence boiled the row down to “Stalinists behaving like Stalinists” and claimed that voters won’t “really care too much”. Mr Spence said: “It’s certainly not damaging Keir Starmer. “I think it’s interesting the accusations were made against members of his team, but information then comes out that certain people have withheld information and want to give it to certain candidates. “One doesn’t want to boil it down too much but it’s almost like Stalinists are always going to behave like Stalinists in terms of what they do with information, who they pass it to and how they use it. DON'T MISS:
Labour accused of ‘behaving like Stalinists’ in leadership contest [NEWS]
Jeremy Corbyn’s Brexit shambles exposed by Lord Owen: 'He wanted out!' [LATEST]
SNP Shame: Tories furious as Cherry heckles Patel [VIDEO]
Mr Corbyn will stand down in April
“Ultimately I don’t think this going to harm Keir Starmer.” He continued: “I don’t think most people really care too much. “But I don’t think, in the grand scheme of things, that most members of the Labour Party are going to be put off by this story. “I think they’ll see it as dirty tricks.” The Information Commissioner is looking into the allegations of “data scraping” by staff on Sir Keir’s campaign.
The party have been bitterly divided over Brexit
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-02-12--PMQs LIVE: 'Demeaning' Corbyn skewered over deportation rant as Boris brutally hits back

On Tuesday the Government approved the multi-billion pound rail project - linking London , Birmingham , Manchester and Leeds .
But HS2 had long-been in doubt , due to the numerous problems and objections it has been faced with , with a review last month warning costs could double to as much as £106billion .
Furious MPs will likely scrutinise the Prime Minister ’ s decision to give the highly expensive project the go-ahead , and will be interested to know where the money will come from after Britain left the European Union .
Next month , the UK will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a post-Brexit trade deal , but cracks are already starting to appear , with Mr Johnson raging Britain will not bow to the bloc ’ s demands on abiding by several of its laws .
The Prime Minister will no doubt be questioned and criticised by the SNP ’ s Westminster leader Ian Blackford on the case for Scottish independence .
This could be particularly relevant following Brexit on January 31 , and a recent poll suggesting the Scottish people are beginning to be persuaded by calls for a second referendum .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ an update on the spread of coronavirus throughout the UK , with dozens of people now feared to be infected with the deadly disease .
SEE BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES FROM PMQS : 12.12pm update : Johnson comes under attack from SNP over humanitarian crisis The SNP ’ s Westminster leader Ian Blackford highlighted the human plight suffered by victims of the Syrian War .
He asked Mr Johnson for how responsible his Government should feel over the humanitarian crisis .
After Mr Johnon highlighted the £3.2bn in funding Britain had committed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ The question was about these children who are literally freezing to death .
“ Assad has delivered death and destruction on these people .
A man who has gassed his own civilians .
“ Is the message the Prime Minister is sending , is the UK government is washing his hands on the Syrian people ?
” Mr Johnson : “ He needs to consult his memory better , he will find this country and this government has consistently called for the end to the Assad regime , has led the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Assad regime to his own people.
” 12.08pm update : Labour leader urges PM to take action on Harry Dunn case Jeremy Corbyn urges Mr Johnson to fight for justice in the Harry Dunn case .
He says it was unfair the US could request extradition for British citizens in certain circumstances when the UK can not do the same in return .
The Labour leader urges Mr Johnson to fight for an “ equal and balanced ” deal with the US .
Mr Johnson says : “ I think the Honourable Gentleman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there are elements of that relationship that are unbalanced .
“ But it is totally different from the case of Harry Dunn.
” The Prime says the Labour leader “ demeans himself and besmirches the reputation of the Windrush generation ” .
Mr Johnson adds : “ He has no right to conflate them with those foreign national offenders we are deporting.
” Jeremy Corbyn has hit out at Mr Johnson over this week ’ s deportation of criminals to Jamaica .
Boris Johnson said : “ It is entirely right that foreign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country in accordance with the law.
” In response , Mr Corbyn said the PM had “ learned nothing from the Windrush scandal ” .
The Labour leader asked whether a “ white boy with blonde hair who conspired with a friend to beat up a journalist ” would be deported .
Tory MP Julian Lewis warned Mr Johnson to differentiate between defence and security funding , warning merging would inflict a “ straight jacket ” on the budget .
Mr Johnson said he would carry out the deepest review of defence and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He adds : By transforming this country ’ s economy by raising productivity , we will ensure that both defence and security are ally provided for .
12pm update : PMQs kicks off with a message from Boris Johnson The Prime Minister begins by offering his deepest sympathies to those affected by the flooding at the weekend '' .
Storm Ciara battered the UK last weekend with gale force winds and torrential rain .

PMQs: Johnson slams Corbyn over Jamaica deportation flight
Boris Johnson clashed with the Labour leader in Prime Minister’s Questions, and the political rivals immediately became engaged in a war of words. Jeremy Corbyn said: “Does the Prime Minister think that someone who came to this country at the age of five and was compelled to carry drugs, released five years ago and never reoffended, deserves to be deported?” The Prime Minister replied: “While I cannot comment on individual cases, it is entirely right that foreign national offenders should be deported from this country in accordance to the law.”
PMQs LIVE: Boris Johnson is set for a furious clash in the House of Commons
PMQs LIVE: Boris Johnson said Jeremy Corbyn 'demeans himself and besmirches the reputation of the Windrush generation'
But the Labour leader raged the Government “has learnt absolutely nothing from the Windrush scandal”. He added: “This cruel and callous Government is trying to mislead the British people into believing it is solely deporting foreign nationals who are guilty of murder, rape and other very serious offences. This is clearly not the case. “Take the example of a young black boy who came to the UK aged five and is now being deported after serving time for a drugs offence. “If there was a case of a young white boy with blonde hair who later dabbled in Class A drugs and conspired with a friend to beat up a journalist, would he deport that boy or is it one rule for young black boys from the carribbevn and white boys from the US?”
PMQs LIVE: Jeremy Corbyn urged the Prime Minister to fight for justice in the Harry Dunn case
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
A furious Mr Johnson snapped back: “The Right Honourable Gentleman demeans himself and besmirches the reputation of the Windrush generation who came to this country to work in our public services to teach children in this country to make lives better. “He has no right to conflate them with those with foreign national offenders we are deporting today.” SEE BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES FROM PMQS:
PMQs LIVE: Jeremy Corbyn immediately launched into attack against Boris Johnson
12.25pm update: PM pays tribute to health workers involved in bringing potential coronavirus victims home Boris Johnson says: "I salute everyone involved in bringing home potential victims of coronavirus, considering the difficulties and risks they face. "Our NHS have so far done an outstanding job in preparing and informing the country." 12.19pm update: Boris outlines record Government investment in NHS to address A&E crisis Labour MP for Harrow West Gareth Thomas asks when Northwick Park - the hospital in his local constituency - will receive some "Government love and attention". He says the hospital has not met its A&E target since August 2014, and could end the financial year with a deficit close to £100million. Mr Johnson responds: "The highest number of people ever attended A&E last month - two million people - and the demand is exceptional. "We are responding with a record investment in the NHS - £34billion - and recruiting 50,000 more nurses to help address that crisis."
PMQs LIVE: Ian Blackford did not choose to attack the Prime Minister over Scottish independence
12.18pm update: Corbyn 'soft on deportation of serious violent offender'
Labour MP for Nottingham north Alex Norris outlines how on a daily basis, 280 shop workers are victims of violence at work. He asks the Prime Minister to publish his "call for evidence" and urges him to meet shop workers who have been victims of violent crime. But Mr Johnson hits back with a dig at Jeremy Corbyn. He says: "We should not tolerate crimes aof violence against shop workers or anyone else. "Therefore, I find it paradoxical the leader of his party is soft one the deportation of serious violent offenders." 12.12pm update: Johnson comes under attack from SNP over humanitarian crisis The SNP’s Westminster leader Ian Blackford highlighted the human plight suffered by victims of the Syrian War. He asked Mr Johnson for how responsible his Government should feel over the humanitarian crisis. After Mr Johnson highlighted the £3.2billion in funding Britain had committed to the humanitarian crisis, Mr Blackford said: “The question was about these children who are literally freezing to death. “Assad has delivered death and destruction on these people. A man who has gassed his own civilians. “Is the message the Prime Minister is sending, is the UK government is washing his hands on the Syrian people?” Mr Johnson replies: “He needs to consult his memory better, he will find this country and this government has consistently called for the end to the Assad regime, has led the world in denouncing the cruelty of the Assad regime to his own people.”
HS2: Johnson champions call for Cleethorpes rail improvement
12.08pm update: Labour leader urges PM to take action on Harry Dunn case Jeremy Corbyn urges Mr Johnson to fight for justice in the Harry Dunn case. He says it was unfair the US could request extradition for British citizens in certain circumstances when the UK cannot do the same in return. The Labour leader urges Mr Johnson to fight for an “equal and balanced” deal with the US. Mr Johnson says: “I think the Honourable Gentleman has a point. I do think there are elements of that relationship that are unbalanced. “But it is totally different from the case of Harry Dunn.” 12.06pm update: Johnson fires back at Corbyn The Prime Minister says the Labour leader “demeans himself and besmirches the reputation of the Windrush generation”. Mr Johnson adds: “He has no right to conflate them with those foreign national offenders we are deporting.”
Britain's constitution explained
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-02-12--POLL: Should Sturgeon call Johnson’s bluff and hold ‘illegal’ referendum? VOTE

Express.co.uk readers can vote in our exclusive poll on whether Ms Sturgeon should hold a second independence referendum even if Mr Johnson continues to block her demands .
It comes after the Prime Minister last month rejected the SNP leader ’ s request to hold another ballot .
But calls are growing for the First Minister to ignore opposition from Westminster and press on with her bid for independence .
A new survey has found that the majority of Scots are in favour of Holyrood legislating to hold a referendum despite Mr Johnson ’ s refusal to back the move @ @ @ @ @ @ @ happen if the UK Government continues to deny permission for an independence vote .
It asked if the Scottish Parliament should legislate for such a ballot and then allow the courts to decide if it could go ahead .
Some 56 percent of respondents agreed , while 44 percent opposed .
Meanwhile , SNP MP Joanna Cherry QC has insisted that “ now is the moment to begin the preparations ” for a second independence referendum .
She called for Holyrood to pass a Bill to hold a referendum and then let the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whether they had the power to do so .
The case would be decided at the UK Supreme Court , with Ms Cherry stating : “ Many legal experts think we would win the argument.
” READ MORE : Nicola Sturgeon ROW : How Sturgeon could hold IndyRef2 WITHOUT approval Taking to Twitter , she said : “ I believe that Holyrood passing a bill to hold a referendum could be part of a multi-faceted strategy to move us away from the current impasse and stop the constant and unproductive talk about Section @ @ @ @ @ @ @ act from Westminster .
“ The balance of legal opinion is that we might well win any court challenge and I don ’ t believe that losing would set us back any further than where we are just now .
“ Boris Johnson should be put on notice that we have options and we are not afraid to push forward.
” Ms Sturgeon has previously insisted she would not follow in the footsteps of Catalonia by holding an illegal referendum .
DO N'T MISS Nicola Sturgeon hits out at Boris Johnson for calling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Expert outlines THREE reasons Scottish economy will be hit by Sturgeon [ ANALYSIS ] Nicola Sturgeon humiliated : Plans to defeat SNP 's calls for indyref2 [ VIDEO ] However , the First Minister said there could come a time when the Scottish Government would consider holding a consultative vote if this was ruled to be legal by the courts .
It comes after Scottish voters opted to remain in the UK by 55 percent to 45 percent in the 2014 referendum .
In a letter to Ms Sturgeon in January , Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transfer powers from Westminster to the Scottish Parliament for the ballot .
He said : “ You and your predecessor made a personal promise that the 2014 independence referendum was a ‘ once in a generation ’ vote .

Indyref2: Sturgeon vows to do ‘all she can to secure referendum’
Express.co.uk readers can vote in our exclusive poll on whether Ms Sturgeon should hold a second independence referendum even if Mr Johnson continues to block her demands. It comes after the Prime Minister last month rejected the SNP leader’s request to hold another ballot.
But calls are growing for the First Minister to ignore opposition from Westminster and press on with her bid for independence. A new survey has found that the majority of Scots are in favour of Holyrood legislating to hold a referendum despite Mr Johnson’s refusal to back the move. The Panelbase poll asked what should happen if the UK Government continues to deny permission for an independence vote. It asked if the Scottish Parliament should legislate for such a ballot and then allow the courts to decide if it could go ahead.
Nicola Sturgeon is in a standoff with Boris Johnson over a second Scottish independence referendum
The Prime Minister last month rejected the SNP leader’s request to hold another ballot
Some 56 percent of respondents agreed, while 44 percent opposed. Meanwhile, SNP MP Joanna Cherry QC has insisted that “now is the moment to begin the preparations” for a second independence referendum. She called for Holyrood to pass a Bill to hold a referendum and then let the Prime Minister mount a legal challenge on whether they had the power to do so. The case would be decided at the UK Supreme Court, with Ms Cherry stating: “Many legal experts think we would win the argument.” READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon ROW: How Sturgeon could hold IndyRef2 WITHOUT approval
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Calls are growing for the First Minister to ignore opposition from Westminster and press on with her bid for independence
However, the First Minister said there could come a time when the Scottish Government would consider holding a consultative vote if this was ruled to be legal by the courts. It comes after Scottish voters opted to remain in the UK by 55 percent to 45 percent in the 2014 referendum. In a letter to Ms Sturgeon in January, Mr Johnson rejected her Section 30 order to transfer powers from Westminster to the Scottish Parliament for the ballot. He said: “You and your predecessor made a personal promise that the 2014 independence referendum was a ‘once in a generation’ vote.
Joanna Cherry QC has insisted that “now is the moment to begin the preparations” for a second independence referendum
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-02-12--Brexit LIVE: EU civil war as FIVE member states face crippling Brexit budget bill

European member states will meet for a crucial plenary debate on the bloc ’ s long term budget today , having failed to reach an agreement after months of gruelling negotiations .
Countries are split on how the EU will cover the funding gap left by Britain ’ s departure from the bloc .
Five countries are set to foot the majority of the bill , which will see their annual contributions almost double .
Austria , Denmark , Germany , the Netherlands and Sweden could see their contributions to the EU ’ s long term budget , also known @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dramatically .
Under current proposals , Germany ’ s net contribution would rise from €16billion ( £13.5billion ) to €26billion ( £22.8million ) per year .
Contributions from the Netherlands would increase from €4.5billion ( £3.8billion ) to €8billion ( £6.7billion ) , while Austria would see its contributions double to €2billion ( £1.7billion ) .
Earlier this week European Council President Charles Michel met with EU negotiations to discuss their priorities for the budget , that will determine spending from 2021-27 , ahead of next week ’ s plenary on the matter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unable to agree on the the size of the budget , the volumes of the main policy areas , the revenue sources and the possibility to add new conditions and incentives for the disbursement of EU funds .
But time is running out to reach an agreement , as the budget proposals need to be signed up by the European Parliament in time for it to start in January 20201 .
12pm update : PMQs kicks off in the Commons For live updates for PMQs SEE HERE .
Nicola Sturgeon is in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ second Scottish independence referendum - but should the First Minister hold a vote without the Prime Minister 's permission ?
VOTE HERE .
The Governor of the Central Bank of Ireland has warned the future trading relationship between the UK and the EU poses a risk to the Irish economy .
Speaking at the European Financial Forum in Dublin Castle , Gabriel Makhlouf said the UK 's withdrawal from the Single Market represents a substantive change for the Irish economy .
Mr Makhlouf said the economic impact of the new trading arrangements will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are from current arrangements .
He said : `` But it seems likely and unsurprising that any future economic relationship between the EU and the UK will have more hurdles than the status quo .
`` Consumers , businesses and regulators should expect , and plan for , more frictions and divergence . ''
UK fishermen have been left furious after European Union boats were again spotted fishing off the coast in British waters , sending a post-Brexit warning to Boris Johnson to “ get them out !
” Fishing For Leave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Traffic website which they claim show dozens of EU boats fishing off the coast of south-west England .
One picture shows several boats located in British waters off the coast of Cornwall , while another shows more than a dozen being tracked off Shetland .
A third image details two Spanish fishing vessels Akillamendi Berria and Breogan Uno - as well as the French trawler Helitrope - spotted just west of the Cape Wrath Lighthouse , which is the most North-Westerly point on the British mainland .
European Council President Charles Michel was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after skipping the crunch debate in the EU Parliament in Strasbourg .
Senior MEPs queued up to lash out at the EU ’ s most senior official , who this week has been on a diplomatic mission in Africa despite the bloc ’ s struggles at home .
Italian MEP Marco Zanni lashed out against `` idealistic '' EU institutions leaders over their spending plans as Brussels debates this year 's EU budget priorities - calling on his colleagues in the European Parliament to `` stop dreaming '' .
Speaking on behalf of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Freedom he leads , Mr Zanni hit out at EU leaders failing to prioritise spending on the key issues faced by European taxpayers .
The Lega MEP claimed it was time for all EU institutions to stop being idealistic and show a more pragmatic approach amid clashes between the European Council and the European Parliament on this year 's EU budget .
Emmanuel Macron is facing arguably his biggest crisis as French President to date ahead of local elections , with defecting MPs creating huge divides in his ruling party , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to plummet .
Several MPs are defecting from La République en Marche ( LREM ) just weeks before the local polls , piling the pressure on the crisis-hit French leader .
The party now has 300 members of the National Assembly following more defections last week , down from 314 at the start of its term and tumbling towards the 289 representing an absolute majority in the lower house of parliament .
8.36am update : Former British MEP predicts 'Euroscepticism ' to soar after budget clash Former Brexit Party MEP Rupert Lowe has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the conclusion of today 's plenary .
He wrote on Twitter : `` MEPs scrambling around in Strasbourg today trying to decide who has to fill the Brexit budgetary black hole .
`` Easy to be pro-EU when you ’ re taking billions .
`` Expect Euroscepticism to soar along with their contributions ! ''
In a column for The Spectator , Alexander Downer , the former Minister for Foreign Affairs in Australia , claimed that one of the most attractive agreements for Britain right now is the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ explained : “ The CPTPP is a high-quality free trade agreement which binds together Australia , New Zealand , Canada , Japan , Singapore , Vietnam , Mexico , Malaysia , Peru , Chile and Brunei .
`` The Bush and Obama administrations were also keen to participate in the CPTPP – indeed the negotiations were driven initially by the Americans – but President Trump decided to withdraw .
“ Despite the Americans backing out , the other 11 members decided to proceed with the agreement .
“ So the CPTPP covers nearly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the third largest free trade area in the world . ''

Italy has ‘run out of patience’ with European Union says MEP
European member states will meet for a crucial plenary debate on the bloc’s long term budget today, having failed to reach an agreement after months of gruelling negotiations. Countries are split on how the EU will cover the funding gap left by Britain’s departure from the bloc. Five countries are set to foot the majority of the bill, which will see their annual contributions almost double.
Austria, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands and Sweden could see their contributions to the EU’s long term budget, also known as the Multiannual Financial Framework, increase dramatically. Under current proposals, Germany’s net contribution would rise from €16billion (£13.5billion) to €26billion (£22.8million) per year. Contributions from the Netherlands would increase from €4.5billion (£3.8billion) to €8billion (£6.7billion), while Austria would see its contributions double to €2billion (£1.7billion). Earlier this week European Council President Charles Michel met with EU negotiations to discuss their priorities for the budget, that will determine spending from 2021-27, ahead of next week’s plenary on the matter. So far EU states have been unable to agree on the the size of the budget, the volumes of the main policy areas, the revenue sources and the possibility to add new conditions and incentives for the disbursement of EU funds. But time is running out to reach an agreement, as the budget proposals need to be signed up by the European Parliament in time for it to start in January 20201. FOLLOW EXPRESS.CO.UK FOR LIVE UPDATES:
European members states will meet for a plenary debate on the long term budget today
8.30pm update: Switzerland to hold referendum as country prepares for its own ‘Brexit moment’ Switzerland could be about to follow in the footsteps of Britain and have their own Brexit moment as the country holds a referendum on its relationship with the EU. Switzerland is set to hold a vote on Schengen, the area comprising 26 European countries that have officially abolished all passport and all other types of border control. While an EU initiative, the Schengen area also includes Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Lichtenstein, none of which are member states. The May 17 vote will see Swiss residents vote on whether they want to regain control of their borders. READ MORE: EU crisis: Switzerland to hold referendum as country prepares for its own ‘Brexit moment’ 7.10pm update: Sturgeon’s dream to rejoin EU destroyed as MP exposes staggering trade deficit with UK Nicola Sturgeon’s hopes of Scotland rejoining the EU after Brexit were shattered by Conservative MP James Sunderland who exposed a shocking trade deficit with the UK. Conservative MP James Sunderland asked in Commons: “Given the minister’s assessment will he confirm that Scotland’s trade with the rest of the UK is worth more than three times that of the EU. “This is only one of the benefits on offer on being part of the UK, not least for British firms.” Scotland’s Secretary Alister Jack MP replied: “The Scottish Government’s shown figures so that Scotland’s most important trading partner is the rest of the UK. “That is worth more three times than trade with the other 27 EU countries combined. “The Scottish Government’s figures showed over 60 percent the country’s exports go to England, Wales and Northern Ireland. “I would argue it’s one of the many benefits it has as part of the United Kingdom.”
6.20pm update: EU launches first legal case against UK just 12 DAYS after Brexit as tax row erupts Brussels has sparked a row after threatening to drag Britain in front of the European Court of Justice as the bloc launched infringement proceedings against the country 12 days after Brexit. The European Commission opened its first post-Brexit disciplinary notice against the UK, which is legally binding under the Brexit transition period. Eurocrats accused the Government of discriminating against European truckers by charging a special tax against them as they enter Britain. European hauliers have to pay the HGV levy, up to £1,000 a year, before entering the country, but the Commission argues this is unfair because UK-registered firms receive the cash back through discounts on their annual road tax. READ MORE: EU launches first legal case against UK just 12 DAYS after Brexit as tax row erupts 5.00pm update: German politician says it is ‘inevitable’ trade talks will go beyond deadline Detlef Seif, a member of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party has insisted it is “inevitable” negotiations will go beyond the December 31 deadline and into 2021. Mr Seif said: “In the few months of negotiations, only a basic agreement is realistic that covers the areas in which gross disruption is otherwise imminent. “The conclusion of a comprehensive free trade agreement and a security partnership will take years, so that, in my opinion, further negotiations after the end of the transition phase - from 2021 - will be inevitable.”
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Brexit news: An ally of Angela Merkel has issue a warning to the UK
4.30pm update: Merkel ally sends warning to UK over trade deal - ‘will not tolerate cherry picking’ An ally of German Chancellor Angela Merkel has warned the UK the EU “will not tolerate cherry picking” in trade negotiations. Detlef Seif, member of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party said: “The unity of the EU27 during the exit negotiations was the reason for the good outcome of the negotiations. “However, the EU27's determination not to cross red lines and, if necessary, to regulate only a few points or nothing at all is just as important. “We can assume that Prime Minister Boris Johnson will try to give the UK the widest possible access to the single market - if possible without being bound by EU standards and without the decision-making powers of the European Court of Justice. “This is indicated by statements by the Prime Minister and his advisers. We will not tolerate cherry picking of the British side.” 4.05pm update: UK fishermen rage at EU boats in British waters - ‘Justice is coming!’ British Fisherman have launched a furious attack on their European counterparts in the latest war of words between the two sides, warning "justice is coming" and the "free lunch is over”. Campaign group Fishing For Leave has lashed out at EU fishermen for complaints from the UK over their boats fishing in British waters close to coastal areas, as well as rules around fishing quotas. Fishing For Leave’s Arron Brown described EU fishermen as being “full of anger, tears, snotters and self-pity” but claimed they have “fiddled the EU Relative Stability Quotas” to claim “grossly inflated shares” of fish. READ MORE: Fishing OUTRAGE: UK fishermen rage at EU boats in British waters - ‘Justice is coming!’ 3.35pm update: Former Brexit Party MEP sends warning to Brexiteers - ‘must not leave the battlefield’ Former Brexit Party MEP Ben Habib has told Brexiteers “not leave the battlefield” and continue to hold the Prime Minister to account until Brexit is sorted once and for all. Mr Habib wrote on Twitter: “We all trusted Mrs May to deliver Brexit. She failed. @BorisJohnson earned the trust of the nation by his manifesto pledges on Brexit. “But, once bitten, twice shy. Brexiteers must not leave the battlefield; not yet anyway.”
Manfred Weber makes dig at Charles Michel during EU plenary
3.20pm update: Firms in Northern Ireland warned over customs forms Businesses in Northern Ireland may have to fill out customs forms with 31 entries to send goods to the rest of the UK, trade officials have said. The paperwork alone could cost up to £55 each time to fill out and smaller companies dealing in lesser loads will be disproportionately affected, Government jobs creation agency Invest NI has warned. Donal Durkan, in charge of strategy at Invest NI, said many firms he was working with were waiting to act until the EU withdrawal was clarified. He said that could leave too little time to act before the end of the transition period in December. 2.03pm update: Greek MEP warns of imminent Brussels meltdown The EU is in danger of experiencing a "slowdown" in its Parliament, Greek MEP Dimitrios Papadimoulis has warned, hitting out at the "unacceptable" budget presented. He warned: "We will face a slowdown in European Parliament, but we’ll also face a crisis, which is looming, so we must have more ambitions still in the budget. “We need to talk about practical things to have a satisfactory compromise between the three legislators.” 1.10pm update: Brexit is impacting Northern Ireland tourism Fewer French and German tourists are coming to Northern Ireland because of Brexit, a tourism chief has said. Tourism Northern Ireland chief executive John McGrillen said uncertainty over crossing the Irish border and weakening of the German economy is contributing. He added: "Those are potential consequences of Brexit and uncertainty about being able to travel across the border and driving licences etc." He said demand from Germany was down by 10-30 percent. 12.26pm update: EU votes for Brexit HARDBALL The European Parliament has ordered Michel Barnier to crackdown on Britain ahead of the formal trade talks next month. MEPs voted in favour of a resolution that encourages the Brussels negotiator to take a tough line on fisheries, Gibraltar and keeping the UK tied to the bloc’s rules and regulations. The motion calls for Britain to align to the EU’s environmental, labour and social standards, as well as its state aid, competition and tax policies. It urges Mr Barnier to demand that Britain never slashes standards fisheries policy, animal healthcare, the environment and climate change, and animal health. 12pm update: PMQs kicks off in the Commons For live updates for PMQs SEE HERE.
Italian MEP warns bloc to 'stop dreaming' over EU budget plans
11.33pm update: POLL: Should Sturgeon hold 'illegal' Scottish referendum? Nicola Sturgeon is in a bitter standoff with Boris Johnson over a second Scottish independence referendum - but should the First Minister hold a vote without the Prime Minister's permission? VOTE HERE. 10.53am update: Ireland urged to prepare for post-Brexit friction The Governor of the Central Bank of Ireland has warned the future trading relationship between the UK and the EU poses a risk to the Irish economy. Speaking at the European Financial Forum in Dublin Castle, Gabriel Makhlouf said the UK's withdrawal from the Single Market represents a substantive change for the Irish economy. Mr Makhlouf said the economic impact of the new trading arrangements will depend on how close or how far they are from current arrangements. He said: "But it seems likely and unsurprising that any future economic relationship between the EU and the UK will have more hurdles than the status quo. "Consumers, businesses and regulators should expect, and plan for, more frictions and divergence." 10.22am update: Infuriating images show EU boats PLUNDERING British waters UK fishermen have been left furious after European Union boats were again spotted fishing off the coast in British waters, sending a post-Brexit warning to Boris Johnson to “get them out!”
Fishing For Leave has released images taken from the Marine Traffic website which they claim show dozens of EU boats fishing off the coast of south-west England.
One picture shows several boats located in British waters off the coast of Cornwall, while another shows more than a dozen being tracked off Shetland.
A third image details two Spanish fishing vessels Akillamendi Berria and Breogan Uno - as well as the French trawler Helitrope - spotted just west of the Cape Wrath Lighthouse, which is the most North-Westerly point on the British mainland. 9.36am update: EU chief under fire for SKIPPING crunch budget talks European Council President Charles Michel was accused of ignoring the issue at hand after skipping the crunch debate in the EU Parliament in Strasbourg. Senior MEPs queued up to lash out at the EU’s most senior official, who this week has been on a diplomatic mission in Africa despite the bloc’s struggles at home. 9.12am update: Italian MEP lashes out at EU spending plans Italian MEP Marco Zanni lashed out against "idealistic" EU institutions leaders over their spending plans as Brussels debates this year's EU budget priorities - calling on his colleagues in the European Parliament to "stop dreaming". Speaking on behalf of the European Parliament group Europe of Nations and Freedom he leads, Mr Zanni hit out at EU leaders failing to prioritise spending on the key issues faced by European taxpayers. The Lega MEP claimed it was time for all EU institutions to stop being idealistic and show a more pragmatic approach amid clashes between the European Council and the European Parliament on this year's EU budget.
Brexit trade talks are due to start next month
Trending
Brexit: UK will have ‘boundless opportunities’ for trade says MP


thedailyexpress--2020-02-12--Labour leadership row: Rebecca Long-Bailey hits out at ‘transphobic’ members

The Shadow Business Secretary has signed up to the 12-point plan by the Labour Campaign for Trans Rights .
Lisa Nandy , another runner in the leadership race , and deputy hopeful Angela Rayner have also backed the pledge , which aims to “ rid the party of transphobia ” and “ stand up for trans people ” .
The pledges include accepting “ trans women are women ” and “ trans men are men ” .
They state there is “ no material conflict between trans rights and women ’ s rights ” .
The group also says it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transphobic , naming Woman ’ s Place UK and the LGB Alliance .
Another pledge states : “ Support the expulsion from the Labour Party of those who express bigoted , transphobic views.
” Sharing the plan on Twitter , Ms Long-Bailey said : “ Please sign to show your support for the trans and non-binary community , for whom the Labour Party should always be a safe space.
” Meanwhile , the Shadow Education Secretary tweeted : “ Please read and sign to show your support to our trans and non-binary community @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Labour Party should always be an open and safe space for all.
” And Ms Nandy said : “ We ’ ve seen a rise in transphobic hate crimes in this country over recent years .
“ Rather than allow women to be pitted against one another , the Labour Party should always be an open and safe space for all.
” Woman ’ s Place UK hit back at allegations their organisation is transphobic , branding the claims “ scurrilous ” and “ defamatory ” .
They said : “ We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Woman ’ s Place UK as a ‘ transphobic organisation ’ and a ‘ hate group ’ by some individuals and groups in the Labour Party , including leading figures in the current leadership election .
DO N'T MISS Gloomy Emily Thornberry spotted sprawling across train seats [ PICTURES ] Labour risks £15MILLION in fines after ‘ dirty tricks ’ data row [ INSIGHT ] Emily Thornberry savaged for battle with Boris Johnson in PMQs [ VIDEO ] “ These are accusations we absolutely refute and which we believe to be defamatory.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ it promised to “ keep speaking the truth and remain open to reasonable discussion ” .
Some Labour members also hit out at the pledges on Twitter , starting the “ expel me ” hashtag .

Labour: ‘A lot of work to do to rebuild trust’ says Long-Bailey
The Shadow Business Secretary has signed up to the 12-point plan by the Labour Campaign for Trans Rights. Lisa Nandy, another runner in the leadership race, and deputy hopeful Angela Rayner have also backed the pledge, which aims to “rid the party of transphobia” and “stand up for trans people”.
The pledges include accepting “trans women are women” and “trans men are men”. They state there is “no material conflict between trans rights and women’s rights”. The group also says it will fight organisations it accuses of being transphobic, naming Woman’s Place UK and the LGB Alliance. Another pledge states: “Support the expulsion from the Labour Party of those who express bigoted, transphobic views.”
Rebecca Long-Bailey has signed up to the 12-point plan by the Labour Campaign for Trans Rights
Deputy hopeful Angela Rayner has also backed the pledge
Sharing the plan on Twitter, Ms Long-Bailey said: “Please sign to show your support for the trans and non-binary community, for whom the Labour Party should always be a safe space.” Meanwhile, the Shadow Education Secretary tweeted: “Please read and sign to show your support to our trans and non-binary community. Our solidarity is long overdue - The Labour Party should always be an open and safe space for all.” And Ms Nandy said: “We’ve seen a rise in transphobic hate crimes in this country over recent years. READ MORE: Labour shambles: Rebecca Long-Bailey’s NHS contradictions exposed
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Lisa Nandy said Labour "should always be an open and safe space for all"
“Rather than allow women to be pitted against one another, the Labour Party should always be an open and safe space for all.” Woman’s Place UK hit back at allegations their organisation is transphobic, branding the claims “scurrilous” and “defamatory”. They said: “We are extremely concerned by the scurrilous mischaracterisation of Woman’s Place UK as a ‘transphobic organisation’ and a ‘hate group’ by some individuals and groups in the Labour Party, including leading figures in the current leadership election. DON'T MISS
Gloomy Emily Thornberry spotted sprawling across train seats [PICTURES]
Labour risks £15MILLION in fines after ‘dirty tricks’ data row [INSIGHT]
Emily Thornberry savaged for battle with Boris Johnson in PMQs [VIDEO]
Ms Long-Bailey and Ms Nandy are in the running to replace Jeremy Corbyn as Labour leader, along with Sir Keir Starmer and Emily Thornberry
“These are accusations we absolutely refute and which we believe to be defamatory.” The LGB Alliance told the BBC it promised to “keep speaking the truth and remain open to reasonable discussion”. Some Labour members also hit out at the pledges on Twitter, starting the “expel me” hashtag.
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-02-12--Nicola Sturgeon ROW: How SNP leader could hold IndyRef2 WITHOUT British approval

Nicola Sturgeon had her dreams of independence crushed last month when Prime Minister Boris Johnson refused to grant her request for a second Scottish Independence referendum vote .
But could the Scottish National Party ( SNP ) leader ignore the Prime Minister and proceed regardless ?
Nicola Sturgeon has said no British Prime minister can stand in the way of the will of the Scottish people .
The First Minister in Scotland also said an independent Scotland would seek to rejoin the European Union , after the country voted to remain by 62 percent in 2016 .
The Scottish politician @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a second Independence vote in December .
She asked for the UK Government to transfer powers , known as a Section 30 order , to the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh that would ensure any referendum is legal .
READ MORE : Sturgeon slated after SNP admits no Mackay resignation letter • Moaning Sturgeon tells Boris the ONE fight he should n't pick But Boris Johnson formally rejected the call from Scotland ’ s First Minister saying a referendum would “ continue the political stagnation Scotland has seen for the past decade ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he had “ carefully considered and noted ” her arguments .
He wrote : “ You and your predecessor made a personal promise that the 2014 independence referendum was a ‘ once in a generation ’ vote .
“ The people of Scotland voted decisively on that promise to keep our United Kingdom together , a result which both the Scottish and UK governments committed to respect in the Edinburgh Agreement.
” The Prime Minister added he did not want to see Scotland ’ s schools , hospitals and employment “ again left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK ” .
The SNP leader condemned Mr Johnson for his decision .
On Twitter she wrote : “ Tories are terrified of Scotland ’ s right to choose - because they know that when given the choice we ’ ll choose independence .
“ Tories have no positive case for the union - so all they can do is attempt to deny democracy .
It will not stand .
“ The problem for the Tories is the longer they try to block democracy , the more they show the Westminster union @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support for independence .
“ This response predictable - but also unsustainable and self-defeating .
Scotland will have the right to choose.
” Now Ms Sturgeon will seek independence in a “ legal and legitimate ” referendum , which can be recognised domestically and internationally .
The SNP leader has said her government will seek an agreement with the UK government on the process for a referendum , and make the case for independence so strong that “ no prime minister , not even Boris Johnson ” can refuse it .
She added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ towards this goal by testing the potential question to be put to voters with the electoral commission , calling a new constitutional convention to broaden the support , and publishing policy papers on how to set up an independent Scotland .
Speaking to a conference in Brussels this week , Ms Sturgeon said : “ We are taking , in Scotland , the steps required to ensure that a referendum can be held that is legal and legitimate so the result can be accepted and agreed both at home and internationally .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK government on a referendum in line with a clear mandate from the people.
” She added : “ The UK is not an imposed state , is a voluntary union of nations.
” DO N'T MISS Sturgeon issues Boris stark warning over hard border with England [ INSIGHT ] ‘ Never going to happen !
’ Britons furious as Sturgeon unveils EU plot [ EXPLAINER ] Sturgeon to keep Scotland in lockstep with EU to help membership talks [ ANALYSIS ] • Scottish independence referendum : What is next for Nicola @ @ @ @ @ @ @ independence referendum is reminiscent of the disputed region of Catalonia in Spain .
Catalonia unilaterally declared independence in October 2017 following a referendum deemed illegal by courts , prompting Spain ’ s biggest political crisis in decades .
In October 2019 , Spain ’ s Supreme Court sentenced nine Catalan politicians and activists to jail terms of between nine and 13 years for that independence bid , while three others were fined .
Ms Sturgeon hopes to avoid this route but wishes to hold a second independence referendum in Scotland .
But how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a second referendum without Westminster permission ?
The formal route to a second referendum is through a section 30 order , which Ms Sturgeon asked Mr Johnson for at the end of 2019 .
A section 30 of the Scotland Act 1998 allows the UK government to temporarily transfer power to the Scottish Parliament to legislate for a referendum .
Crucially for Ms Sturgeon ’ s plans , a section 30 order can only be introduced to the Westminster parliament by the UK government and is not legally obliged to do so .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ were approved and a referendum went ahead , it would be an advisory rather than a legally binding referendum , meaning that a change in the legal status of Scotland would still depend on further negotiation with the UK and legislation in both parliaments .
Another potential avenue for a “ legal and legitimate ” referendum vote could involve introducing a referendum bill in Scottish parliament .
The Presiding Officer could then decide the bill falls outside the legislative powers of Holyrood , although this may not prevent the parliament from debating it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and passed , it would then be open to legal challenge by any citizen based in Scotland or organisation directly affected by Scots law .
If the bill went unchallenged in Scotland , the UK Government could then refuse to send it for royal assent and instead ask the Supreme Court to rule on its legality .
However , she is currently resisting demands for a unilateral consultative referendum and has said she will fight any move which invites comparison to Catalonia .
The SNP leader fears a consultative referendum would be illegal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but her critics wish to test this in court .
Ms Sturgeon has urged patience , concerned there is no solid majority for independence , although polls show a narrow lead .

Nicola Sturgeon reacts to ‘personal insults’ from Boris Johnson
Nicola Sturgeon had her dreams of independence crushed last month when Prime Minister Boris Johnson refused to grant her request for a second Scottish Independence referendum vote. But could the Scottish National Party (SNP) leader ignore the Prime Minister and proceed regardless?
Trending
Nicola Sturgeon has said no British Prime minister can stand in the way of the will of the Scottish people. The First Minister in Scotland also said an independent Scotland would seek to rejoin the European Union, after the country voted to remain by 62 percent in 2016. The Scottish politician, 49, made a formal request for a second Independence vote in December. She asked for the UK Government to transfer powers, known as a Section 30 order, to the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh that would ensure any referendum is legal. READ MORE: Sturgeon slated after SNP admits no Mackay resignation letter
Nicola Sturgeon row: How might SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon hold an Indyref2 with British support?
Nicola Sturgeon row: Nicola Sturgeon is the leader of the SNP
READ MORE Moaning Sturgeon tells Boris the ONE fight he shouldn't pick But Boris Johnson formally rejected the call from Scotland’s First Minister saying a referendum would “continue the political stagnation Scotland has seen for the past decade”. Within the response, he said he had “carefully considered and noted” her arguments. He wrote: “You and your predecessor made a personal promise that the 2014 independence referendum was a ‘once in a generation’ vote. “The people of Scotland voted decisively on that promise to keep our United Kingdom together, a result which both the Scottish and UK governments committed to respect in the Edinburgh Agreement.” The Prime Minister added he did not want to see Scotland’s schools, hospitals and employment “again left behind because of a campaign to separate the UK”. The SNP leader condemned Mr Johnson for his decision. On Twitter she wrote: “Tories are terrified of Scotland’s right to choose - because they know that when given the choice we’ll choose independence. “Tories have no positive case for the union - so all they can do is attempt to deny democracy. It will not stand. “The problem for the Tories is the longer they try to block democracy, the more they show the Westminster union is not one of equals and fuel support for independence. “This response predictable - but also unsustainable and self-defeating. Scotland will have the right to choose.”
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Nicola Sturgeon row: The results of a recent survey on Scottish Independence
Now Ms Sturgeon will seek independence in a “legal and legitimate” referendum, which can be recognised domestically and internationally. The SNP leader has said her government will seek an agreement with the UK government on the process for a referendum, and make the case for independence so strong that “no prime minister, not even Boris Johnson” can refuse it. She added the Scottish government has already taken steps towards this goal by testing the potential question to be put to voters with the electoral commission, calling a new constitutional convention to broaden the support, and publishing policy papers on how to set up an independent Scotland. Speaking to a conference in Brussels this week, Ms Sturgeon said: “We are taking, in Scotland, the steps required to ensure that a referendum can be held that is legal and legitimate so the result can be accepted and agreed both at home and internationally. “We should agree on a process with the UK government on a referendum in line with a clear mandate from the people.” She added: “The UK is not an imposed state, is a voluntary union of nations.” DON'T MISS
Sturgeon issues Boris stark warning over hard border with England [INSIGHT]
‘Never going to happen!’ Britons furious as Sturgeon unveils EU plot [EXPLAINER]
Sturgeon to keep Scotland in lockstep with EU to help membership talks [ANALYSIS]
READ MORE Scottish independence referendum: What is next for Nicola Sturgeon? The decision to hold an independence referendum is reminiscent of the disputed region of Catalonia in Spain. Catalonia unilaterally declared independence in October 2017 following a referendum deemed illegal by courts, prompting Spain’s biggest political crisis in decades. In October 2019, Spain’s Supreme Court sentenced nine Catalan politicians and activists to jail terms of between nine and 13 years for that independence bid, while three others were fined. Ms Sturgeon hopes to avoid this route but wishes to hold a second independence referendum in Scotland.
Nicola Sturgeon row: Ms Sturgeon is Scotland's First Minister
Nicola Sturgeon row: Nicola and her husband at the Guinness Six Nations match on February 8
But how would Nicola Sturgeon be allowed to hold a second referendum without Westminster permission? The formal route to a second referendum is through a section 30 order, which Ms Sturgeon asked Mr Johnson for at the end of 2019. A section 30 of the Scotland Act 1998 allows the UK government to temporarily transfer power to the Scottish Parliament to legislate for a referendum. Crucially for Ms Sturgeon’s plans, a section 30 order can only be introduced to the Westminster parliament by the UK government and is not legally obliged to do so. Even if a new section 30 order were approved and a referendum went ahead, it would be an advisory rather than a legally binding referendum, meaning that a change in the legal status of Scotland would still depend on further negotiation with the UK and legislation in both parliaments.


thedailyexpress--2020-02-12--'Delusional!' - Sickening poll shows how Momentum members REALLY felt about anti-Semitism

A poll by Lord Ashcroft has revealed that 92 percent of Momentum members think that anti-semitism in the Labour party is 'wildly exaggerated ’ .
The worrying results saw Momentum members blame the party ’ s opponents for exaggerating the problem rather than acknowledging the issue within the party they support .
The poll revealed that members of pro-Corbyn campaign group Momentum are more likely than other Labour members to think alleged antisemitism in the party was `` wildly exaggerated '' by the party 's opponents .
Findings revealed a total of 92 percent of Momentum members agreed with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` wildly exaggerated by right-wing media and opponents of Jeremy Corbyn '' .
Sadly just six per cent of Momentum members felt antisemitism `` was a real issue '' in the party .
The poll also showed those who had backed Jeremy Corbyn in both leadership elections were far likelier to blame the media and political opponents for the antisemitism issue .
A total of 39 per cent who backed Mr Corbyn agreed that the Jew-hate issue was entirely the fault of the right-wing media and his opponents .
In contrast just five @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2016 and just four per cent who backed Liz Kendall in 2015 blamed the right-wing media and Mr Corbyn ’ s opponents .
A shocking total of 73 per cent of Labour members also agreed with the statement .
Overall , sickening results showed that a mere 22 per cent of Labour members agreed that antisemitism `` was a real issue ” .
JUST IN : Princess Beatrice wedding : The ONE strict rule guests have to follow A third jibed : “ I ’ m just surprised that 92 % of Momentum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ They can think but only when they 're told to.
” The news comes after half of Labour voters who defected to other parties admitted they have no intention of switching back for the next election .
According to recent research , former supporters said it would take major change in the party or for the Tories to implode before they would consider returning .
The Diagnosis of Defeat of report found Just one in five who turned their back on the party said it was a one-off based on a specific @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defectors , three quarters of who chose the Conservatives , said that Labour would “ need to change very significantly ” before they would return to the fold .
But they warned Prime Minister Boris Johnson they are prepared to switch if they are taken for granted by any party .

Jeremy Vine: Myskow clashes with Sarkar over Momentum
A poll by Lord Ashcroft has revealed that 92 percent of Momentum members think that anti-semitism in the Labour party is 'wildly exaggerated’. The worrying results saw Momentum members blame the party’s opponents for exaggerating the problem rather than acknowledging the issue within the party they support.
The poll revealed that members of pro-Corbyn campaign group Momentum are more likely than other Labour members to think alleged antisemitism in the party was "wildly exaggerated" by the party's opponents. Findings revealed a total of 92 percent of Momentum members agreed with the statement that Jew-hate in the party was "wildly exaggerated by right-wing media and opponents of Jeremy Corbyn". Sadly just six per cent of Momentum members felt antisemitism "was a real issue" in the party. The poll also showed those who had backed Jeremy Corbyn in both leadership elections were far likelier to blame the media and political opponents for the antisemitism issue.
A poll by Lord Ashcroft has revealed that 92% of Momentum members think that anti-semitism in the La
The poll showed those who had backed Jeremy Corbyn in both leadership elections were far likelier to blame the media and political opponents for the antisemitism issue
A total of 39 per cent who backed Mr Corbyn agreed that the Jew-hate issue was entirely the fault of the right-wing media and his opponents. In contrast just five per cent who backed Owen Smith in 2016 and just four per cent who backed Liz Kendall in 2015 blamed the right-wing media and Mr Corbyn’s opponents. A shocking total of 73 per cent of Labour members also agreed with the statement. Overall, sickening results showed that a mere 22 per cent of Labour members agreed that antisemitism "was a real issue”. JUST IN: Princess Beatrice wedding: The ONE strict rule guests have to follow
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Momentum members blamed Mr. Corbyn's opponents for 'exaggerating' the issue
Just six per cent of Momentum members felt antisemitism "was a real issue" in the party
39 per cent who backed Mr. Corbyn agreed that the Jew-hate issue was entirely the fault of the right-wing media and his opponents
“Delusional. Toxic culture.” slammed a second. A third jibed: “I’m just surprised that 92% of Momentum supporters think.” Another user commented: “They can think but only when they're told to.” The news comes after half of Labour voters who defected to other parties admitted they have no intention of switching back for the next election.
Main reason for not sticking with Labour
According to recent research, former supporters said it would take major change in the party or for the Tories to implode before they would consider returning. The Diagnosis of Defeat of report found Just one in five who turned their back on the party said it was a one-off based on a specific reason. More than half of Labour defectors, three quarters of who chose the Conservatives, said that Labour would “need to change very significantly” before they would return to the fold. But they warned Prime Minister Boris Johnson they are prepared to switch if they are taken for granted by any party.
Trending
Just four per cent who backed Liz Kendall in 2015 blamed the right-wing media and Mr. Corbyn’s opponents


thedailyexpress--2020-02-12--Thornberry humiliation: The SHOCK statistic that shows Labour hopeful’s plunge from glory

The loyal Corbynite is currently at the bottom of the pile has her odds dropped to just 100/1 to replace Mr Corbyn .
But it is now believed that Shadow Brexit Secretary Keir Starmer will be the frontrunner in the contest after securing the backing of three vital unions : Unison , Usdaw and Community .
The bookies have slashed his odds of becoming next Labour leader to just 1/7 .
The latest odds are the lowest they have ever been .
Shadow Business Secretary Ms Long Bailey has seen her odds drift to 8/1 .
While Wigan MP Lisa @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the betting .
Alex Apati of Ladbrokes said : `` Starmer 's odds are continuing to shorten and it looks as though he 'll be the one replacing Corbyn as Labour leader . ''
The deadline to get the backing of unions and Labour constituency parties is February 21 .
Ms Coburn left the potential leader squirming after pointing out that Ms Thornberry is “ the most experienced ” candidate .
The BBC host said : `` Emily , you ’ re the only contender who isn ’ t yet guaranteed a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Friday is the cutoff point , you ’ ve got to have 33 Labour Party constituency nominations – you ’ ve got 22 , I think .
`` I don ’ t know whether that ’ s a big mountain to climb or not , really .
Will you make it ? ''
Ms Thornberry was forced to admit that she does “ not know ” why people within the party are not backing her for Labour leader .
But she said that she has been “ learning a great deal ” from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ party .
Labour ’ s current leader Mr Corbyn has been forced to step down after the party experienced a shocking election defeat .

Emily Thornberry on dispatch box clash with Boris Johnson
Ms Thornberry is currently in the Labour leadership race along with Rebecca Long Bailey, Lisa Nandy and Sir Keir Starmer. However, recent odds from betting company Ladbrokes have revealed that Ms Thornberry’s popularity has plummeted.
The loyal Corbynite is currently at the bottom of the pile has her odds dropped to just 100/1 to replace Mr Corbyn. But it is now believed that Shadow Brexit Secretary Keir Starmer will be the frontrunner in the contest after securing the backing of three vital unions: Unison, Usdaw and Community. The bookies have slashed his odds of becoming next Labour leader to just 1/7. The latest odds are the lowest they have ever been.
Labour news: The SHOCK statistic that shows Thornberry’s plunge from glory
Ms Thornberry is currently in the Labour leadership race along with Rebecca Long-Bailey
Shadow Business Secretary Ms Long Bailey has seen her odds drift to 8/1. While Wigan MP Lisa Nandy has been given a 10/1 shot in the betting. Alex Apati of Ladbrokes said: "Starmer's odds are continuing to shorten and it looks as though he'll be the one replacing Corbyn as Labour leader." The deadline to get the backing of unions and Labour constituency parties is February 21. READ MORE: Gloomy Emily Thornberry spotted sprawling across train seats
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Shadow Brexit Secretary Keir Starmer will be the frontrunner in the contest
Labour’s current leader Mr Corbyn has been forced to step down
Shadow Brexit Secretary Keir Starmer will be the frontrunner in the contest
Ms Coburn left the potential leader squirming after pointing out that Ms Thornberry is “the most experienced” candidate. The BBC host said: "Emily, you’re the only contender who isn’t yet guaranteed a spot on the final ballot. "Friday is the cutoff point, you’ve got to have 33 Labour Party constituency nominations – you’ve got 22, I think. "I don’t know whether that’s a big mountain to climb or not, really. Will you make it?"
Labour leadership candidates
Ms Thornberry was forced to admit that she does “not know” why people within the party are not backing her for Labour leader. But she said that she has been “learning a great deal” from supporters while discussing the future of the party. Labour’s current leader Mr Corbyn has been forced to step down after the party experienced a shocking election defeat.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson returned to Downing Street with an impressive majority
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-02-13--Sturgeon’s dream to rejoin EU destroyed as MP exposes staggering trade deficit with UK

Nicola Sturgeon has been campaigning for the ability to hold a referendum on Scotland ’ s independence so that the country can rejoin the EU following Brexit .
But the SNP leader has been declined the vote as Prime Minister Boris Johnson said it is a once in a generation vote .
Ms Sturgeon ’ s trade plans with the EU have since been dismantled by Conservative MPs in Parliament .
James Sunderland MP asked in Commons : “ Given the minister ’ s assessment will he confirm that Scotland ’ s trade with the rest of the UK is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the EU .
“ This is only one of the benefits on offer on being part of the UK , not least for British firms.
” Scotland ’ s Secretary Alister Jack MP replied : “ The Scottish Government ’ s shown figures so that Scotland ’ s most important trading partner is the rest of the UK .
“ That is worth more three times than trade with the other 27 EU countries combined .
READ MORE : SNP infighting : Sturgeon ’ s authority challenged as MP lashes out “ The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 60 percent the country ’ s exports go to England , Wales and Northern Ireland .
“ I would argue it ’ s one of the many benefits it has as part of the United Kingdom.
” The SNP has been shamed over Ms Sturgeon ’ s proposal to return the Scottish fishing industry back into the hands of the EU despite fishermen across the country demanding full control of British waters .
Under her plan , Scottish fishermen would once again have to abide by the controversial Common Fisheries Policy ( CFP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restrictions imposed under the system Moray MP Douglas Ross shamed the Scottish National Party over their plans after SNP MP Steve Bonnar questioned whether the British Government is considering striking a deal with the EU to guarantee free access to respective waters once the CFP ceases to be in effect .
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland said : `` We are in discussions about this going forward but I have to say we have a positive vision for our fishing industry in Scotland now we ’ ve left the European Union @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the vision of the SNP for fishing in Scotland ?
Sturgeon ’ s separatist obsession a ‘ direct threat ’ to Scottish jobs [ VIDEO ] Sturgeon shamed : SNP accused of ‘ sheer hypocrisy ’ [ INSIGHT ] Nicola Sturgeon ROW : How Sturgeon could hold IndyRef2 WITHOUT approval [ INSIGHT ]

Scotland's UK trade worth 'three times that with EU' says MP
Nicola Sturgeon has been campaigning for the ability to hold a referendum on Scotland’s independence so that the country can rejoin the EU following Brexit. But the SNP leader has been declined the vote as Prime Minister Boris Johnson said it is a once in a generation vote. Ms Sturgeon’s trade plans with the EU have since been dismantled by Conservative MPs in Parliament.
James Sunderland MP asked in Commons: “Given the minister’s assessment will he confirm that Scotland’s trade with the rest of the UK is worth more than three times that of the EU. “This is only one of the benefits on offer on being part of the UK, not least for British firms.” Scotland’s Secretary Alister Jack MP replied: “The Scottish Government’s shown figures so that Scotland’s most important trading partner is the rest of the UK. “That is worth more three times than trade with the other 27 EU countries combined. READ MORE: SNP infighting: Sturgeon’s authority challenged as MP lashes out
Nicola Sturgeon's dreams have been shattered
Nicola Sturgeon has been declined a second vote on Scottish independence
“The Scottish Government’s figures showed over 60 percent the country’s exports go to England, Wales and Northern Ireland. “I would argue it’s one of the many benefits it has as part of the United Kingdom.” The SNP has been shamed over Ms Sturgeon’s proposal to return the Scottish fishing industry back into the hands of the EU despite fishermen across the country demanding full control of British waters. Under her plan, Scottish fishermen would once again have to abide by the controversial Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) despite coastal communities long bemoaning the restrictions imposed under the system
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Nicola Sturgeon’s trade plans with the EU have since been dismantled
SNP have broken 'another promise' with taxes says Jayawardena
Moray MP Douglas Ross shamed the Scottish National Party over their plans after SNP MP Steve Bonnar questioned whether the British Government is considering striking a deal with the EU to guarantee free access to respective waters once the CFP ceases to be in effect. The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland said: "We are in discussions about this going forward but I have to say we have a positive vision for our fishing industry in Scotland now we’ve left the European Union. "How does that reflect on the vision of the SNP for fishing in Scotland? DON’T MISS Sturgeon’s separatist obsession a ‘direct threat’ to Scottish jobs [VIDEO]
Sturgeon shamed: SNP accused of ‘sheer hypocrisy’ [INSIGHT]
Nicola Sturgeon ROW: How Sturgeon could hold IndyRef2 WITHOUT approval [INSIGHT]
Brexit timeline
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-02-13--Powerful MPs vow to end witch hunt of veterans ‘who defended us’ during The Troubles

The new parliamentary Veterans Support Group already has more than 40 members in the Commons and is rapidly gathering support in the House of Lords .
The group , led by former Tory leader and Northern Ireland veteran Sir Iain Duncan Smith , has vowed “ to defend those who defended us ” .
Five British veterans face trial over shootings during The Troubles dating back as far as 1972 and Sir Iain has previously urged the Government to change the law on the persecution of soldiers who served at that time .
Now the group ’ s numbers give @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that leaves veterans at the mercy of Northern Ireland ’ s courts .
Senior members include former Armed Forces minister Mark Francois , former Northern Ireland Secretary Owen Paterson and Tory backbenchers who served in the Army including Richard Drax and Colonel Bob Stewart .
Hundreds of veterans face being reinvestigated over historic allegations .
About 500 terrorists , including IRA men were released from jail early under Tony Blair ’ s 1998 Good Friday Agreement and 300 suspected terrorists received letters guaranteeing they would not face prosecution .
The first veteran ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is due to begin at Belfast Crown Court next month .
Mr Hutchings , 78 , who is seriously ill , has twice been investigated and cleared over the killing of unarmed John Pat Cunningham who was shot in 1974 when he ran away from an Army patrol .
Mr Hutchings , who denies charges of attempted murder and grievous bodily harm with intent , is battling to get the case thrown out .
Mr Francois said : “ The aim of our Veterans Support Group is simple – to defend those who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plans for legislation to bring in a time limit for prosecutions of troops unless there was strong new evidence .
But the fear is that any legislation will be watered down to appease Sinn Fein amid concerns it could bring down the Northern Ireland executive , which has recently been reinstated .
A Government spokesperson said : “ The Prime Minister has been clear we will end the vexatious prosecutions of veterans , including bringing forward legislation .
“ We will implement the Stormont House agreement to provide certainty for veterans and justice @ @ @ @

Dennis Hutchings faces trial over 1974 shooting
The new parliamentary Veterans Support Group already has more than 40 members in the Commons and is rapidly gathering support in the House of Lords. The group, led by former Tory leader and Northern Ireland veteran Sir Iain Duncan Smith, has vowed “to defend those who defended us”.
Five British veterans face trial over shootings during The Troubles dating back as far as 1972 and Sir Iain has previously urged the Government to change the law on the persecution of soldiers who served at that time. Now the group’s numbers give it the power to block any bill that leaves veterans at the mercy of Northern Ireland’s courts. Senior members include former Armed Forces minister Mark Francois, former Northern Ireland Secretary Owen Paterson and Tory backbenchers who served in the Army including Richard Drax and Colonel Bob Stewart.
Armed Forces minister Mark Francois
Hundreds of veterans face being reinvestigated over historic allegations. About 500 terrorists, including IRA men were released from jail early under Tony Blair’s 1998 Good Friday Agreement and 300 suspected terrorists received letters guaranteeing they would not face prosecution. The first veteran’s trial – of Dennis Hutchings – is due to begin at Belfast Crown Court next month. Mr Hutchings, 78, who is seriously ill, has twice been investigated and cleared over the killing of unarmed John Pat Cunningham who was shot in 1974 when he ran away from an Army patrol. Mr Hutchings, who denies charges of attempted murder and grievous bodily harm with intent, is battling to get the case thrown out.
Sir Iain leads new group of MPs
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info