thedailyexpress--2020-06-19--Corbyn HUMILIATED: Labour faces crisis as toxic legacy lives on - damning report

Labour had seen the election as a huge opportunity to take advantage of a Conservative Government in crisis , during a six month period that saw Theresa May resign and replaced as Prime Minister by Mr Johnson , as well as continued struggles to get Brexit over the line .
But Mr Corbyn led Labour to a huge general election defeat , handing the Tories a massive 80-seat majority in the House of Commons .
Labour also lost significant heartlands and in the north of England that it had held for several decades , which contributed largely to the party @ @ @ @ @ @ @ led to the departure of Mr Corbyn , with Shadow Brexit Secretary Sir Keir Starmer elected as new leader .
Now a major report looking at the 2019 general election defeat has laid bare the `` toxic culture '' and `` operational dysfunction '' that dominated the party over several years and led to its national humiliation .
The report has been put together by Labour Together , which was set up to unite MPs and activists from different traditions , and was prepared by a a 15-strong panel of commissioners , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who advised the former Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell .
This uses interviews with senior party figures , as well as previously unseen polling and analysis , and outlines huge faults in Labour and in particular its election campaign .
But the report paints a damning picture of Labour , and says : `` Our Party has spent substantial periods of the last five years in conflict with itself resulting in significant strategic and operational dysfunction , resulting in a toxic culture and limiting our ability to work effectively .
`` Responsibility for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or part of our movement .
`` Across our movement we should accept our part in these divisions and the impact this had on our ability to work together and present a united front to the public . ''
The Labour Together review also launches a scathing attack on the leadership under Mr Corbyn , who not only left the top seat in humiliation but also led the party to two successive general election defeats in 2017 and 2019 .
READ MORE : BBC QT : Fiona Bruce erupts at Lisa Nandy for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concerns about Labour ’ s leadership were a significant factor in our election loss in 2019 '' and that a ‘ Stop Jeremy Corbyn ’ campaign was a major reason for the party 's crushing election loss .
Labour Together admits Mr Corbyn 's personal poll ratings had been a sign of encouragement over the 2017 election campaign , but they plummeted heading into December 's election , laying the blame at issues such as Brexit , and the anti-Semitism allegations that had swept through the party .
The report says : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a significant factor in our election loss in 2019 .
`` ‘ Stop Jeremy Corbyn ’ was a major driver of the Conservatives ’ success across all their key groups including previous non-voters , and among all the swing voters Labour lost to the Tories .
DO N'T MISS Duncan Smith shuts down Labour MP accusing Boris of 'playing chicken ' [ VIDEO ] Corbyn 's politics branded 'racist ' by Priti Patel in fiery response [ COMMENT ] Piers Morgan defends Priti Patel in fiery GMB clash with Labour MP [ INTERVIEW @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s personal poll ratings dramatically improved over the campaign .
Had these levels been maintained , Labour ’ s vote share in 2019 would have been 6 points higher .
`` The very low poll ratings on leadership going into the 2019 election can not easily be disentangled from the handling of issues like Brexit , party disunity and anti-Semitism .
`` In the words of our candidates and activists , the strategy was inadequate , the organisation was muddled and the execution was poor . ''
The report also warns the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , making clear the election defeat had `` deep roots '' and the loss is `` the story of more than one election '' .
Labour is accused with `` disconnecting '' with voters throughout the country through the loss of `` institutional roots '' .
The review says `` we will not win or deserve to win '' the next general election in 2024 unless all of the fundamental flaws dominating the party are quickly addressed .
Labour Together says : `` Unless we recognise and accept this triple challenge of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 2019 and the deep roots of how we got here , we will not win or deserve to win .
None can be ignored . ''
`` Our report lays bare that our defeat had deep roots .
This loss is the story of more than one election—indeed it is a story that stretches back two decades .
`` The institutional and cultural bonds that linked many voters to Labour have become weaker and weaker over time .
From the loss of local Labour clubs to declining Trade Union membership , Labour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it had within communities , resulting in disconnection .
`` Labour lost millions of voters before it lost office in 2010 partly as a result of political alienation from politics more generally , and from the Labour Party particularly , including perceptions that there was little difference between the parties and the prominence of new cultural divides .
`` Over many years previous Labour voters and traditionally Labour communities have moved away , either to abstention or to smaller parties such as UKIP .
`` Some of those voters also chose the Conservatives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enough to help tip a number of seats over the edge where the long-term decline in Labour ’ s vote share had been evident for years .
`` Unless we recognise and accept this triple challenge of the scale of our task , the failures of 2019 and the deep roots of how we got here , we will not win or deserve to win .
None can be ignored . ''

Labour: Red wall has been 'crumbling' says Lucy Powell
Labour had seen the election as a huge opportunity to take advantage of a Conservative Government in crisis, during a six month period that saw Theresa May resign and replaced as Prime Minister by Mr Johnson, as well as continued struggles to get Brexit over the line. But Mr Corbyn led Labour to a huge general election defeat, handing the Tories a massive 80-seat majority in the House of Commons. Labour also lost significant heartlands and in the north of England that it had held for several decades, which contributed largely to the party's humiliating defeat.
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The crushing defeat led to the departure of Mr Corbyn, with Shadow Brexit Secretary Sir Keir Starmer elected as new leader. Now a major report looking at the 2019 general election defeat has laid bare the "toxic culture" and "operational dysfunction" that dominated the party over several years and led to its national humiliation. The report has been put together by Labour Together, which was set up to unite MPs and activists from different traditions, and was prepared by a a 15-strong panel of commissioners, including former leader Ed Miliband and James Meadway, who advised the former Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell. This uses interviews with senior party figures, as well as previously unseen polling and analysis, and outlines huge faults in Labour and in particular its election campaign.
Jeremy Corbyn news: A report into Labour's generel election loss has criticised the 'toxic culture'
Jeremy Corbyn news: The former Labour leader suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of Boris Johnson
Our Party has spent substantial periods of the last five years in conflict with itself resulting in significant strategic and operational dysfunction, resulting in a toxic culture and limiting our ability to work effectively Labour Together
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But the report paints a damning picture of Labour, and says: "Our Party has spent substantial periods of the last five years in conflict with itself resulting in significant strategic and operational dysfunction, resulting in a toxic culture and limiting our ability to work effectively. "Responsibility for this rests not wholly with one side or part of our movement. "Across our movement we should accept our part in these divisions and the impact this had on our ability to work together and present a united front to the public." The Labour Together review also launches a scathing attack on the leadership under Mr Corbyn, who not only left the top seat in humiliation but also led the party to two successive general election defeats in 2017 and 2019. READ MORE: BBC QT: Fiona Bruce erupts at Lisa Nandy for Labour's 'confusion'
Jeremy Corbyn news: Labour suffered humiliation in December's general election
The report states "concerns about Labour’s leadership were a significant factor in our election loss in 2019" and that a ‘Stop Jeremy Corbyn’ campaign was a major reason for the party's crushing election loss. Labour Together admits Mr Corbyn's personal poll ratings had been a sign of encouragement over the 2017 election campaign, but they plummeted heading into December's election, laying the blame at issues such as Brexit, and the anti-Semitism allegations that had swept through the party. The report says: "Concerns about Labour’s leadership were a significant factor in our election loss in 2019. "‘Stop Jeremy Corbyn’ was a major driver of the Conservatives’ success across all their key groups including previous non-voters, and among all the swing voters Labour lost to the Tories. DON'T MISS
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Jeremy Corbyn news: The former Labour leader was in high spirits heading into the election
Jeremy Corbyn news: Labour's general election campaign is heavily criticised in the report
"In 2017, Jeremy Corbyn’s personal poll ratings dramatically improved over the campaign. Had these levels been maintained, Labour’s vote share in 2019 would have been 6 points higher. "The very low poll ratings on leadership going into the 2019 election cannot easily be disentangled from the handling of issues like Brexit, party disunity and anti-Semitism. "In the words of our candidates and activists, the strategy was inadequate, the organisation was muddled and the execution was poor." The report also warns the crisis engulfing Labour stretches back 20 years, making clear the election defeat had "deep roots" and the loss is "the story of more than one election".
Jeremy Corbyn news: Main reason for not sticking with Labour
Labour is accused with "disconnecting" with voters throughout the country through the loss of "institutional roots". The review says "we will not win or deserve to win" the next general election in 2024 unless all of the fundamental flaws dominating the party are quickly addressed. Labour Together says: "Unless we recognise and accept this triple challenge of the scale of our task, the failures of 2019 and the deep roots of how we got here, we will not win or deserve to win. None can be ignored." "Our report lays bare that our defeat had deep roots. This loss is the story of more than one election—indeed it is a story that stretches back two decades. "The institutional and cultural bonds that linked many voters to Labour have become weaker and weaker over time. From the loss of local Labour clubs to declining Trade Union membership, Labour has lost many of the institutional roots it had within communities, resulting in disconnection.
Jeremy Corbyn news: Keir Starmer took over as Labour leader


thedailyexpress--2020-06-19--END OF EURO: Disaster looms for Brussels as chaos threatens currency - poll

Express.co.uk readers voted in our poll on whether the euro will survive the next 10 years .
A huge 91 percent said the single currency would not , while just eight percent said it would .
One percent did not know .
Commenting on the poll , one reader said : “ Decade ?
I will be surprised if it survives the next 12 months.
” A third added : “ I 'd be surprised if it survives the next year.
” Another commented : “ I think we 'll see Germany revert back to the deutsch mark within FIVE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ No , it 's as doomed as the EU !
” It comes as Brussels is under pressure over Brexit , coronavirus and its budget .
Speaking in the European Parliament on Wednesday , Finnish MEP Laura Huhtasaari called for the euro to be “ dismantled ” .
The Finns Party member said : `` I would like to congratulate Great Britain they just saved around €80billion .
READ MORE : End of the EU ?
Economist warns of impending euro crisis “ The Commission also wants the EU 's own sources of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` In the EU a large part of its economic problems would be reduced if the monetary union of the euro was dismantled .
`` According to a study , Finnish exports would be 40 percent higher in their own currency .
I want my money back ! ''
Italian MEP Marco Zanni also attacked the EU ’ s response to coronavirus .

EU: Laura Huhtasaari hits out at institution's 'economic problems'
Express.co.uk readers voted in our poll on whether the euro will survive the next 10 years. A huge 91 percent said the single currency would not, while just eight percent said it would. One percent did not know.
Commenting on the poll, one reader said: “Decade? I will be surprised if it survives the next 12 months.” Another wrote: “The EU wont survive 10 yrs nevermind the euro.” A third added: “I'd be surprised if it survives the next year.” Another commented: “I think we'll see Germany revert back to the deutsch mark within FIVE years.”
The euro will not last the decade, according to an Express.co.uk poll
One more said: “No, it's as doomed as the EU!” It comes as Brussels is under pressure over Brexit, coronavirus and its budget. Speaking in the European Parliament on Wednesday, Finnish MEP Laura Huhtasaari called for the euro to be “dismantled”. The Finns Party member said: "I would like to congratulate Great Britain they just saved around €80billion. READ MORE: End of the EU? Economist warns of impending euro crisis
Express.co.uk readers voted in our poll on whether the euro will survive the next 10 years
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Brussels is under pressure over Brexit, coronavirus and its budget
“The Commission also wants the EU's own sources of taxation passed in the member states. "In the EU a large part of its economic problems would be reduced if the monetary union of the euro was dismantled. "According to a study, Finnish exports would be 40 percent higher in their own currency. I want my money back!" Italian MEP Marco Zanni also attacked the EU’s response to coronavirus.
Finnish MEP Laura Huhtasaari called for the euro to be “dismantled”
The Lega MEP told the European Parliament session: "We were told this week there would be a European Council meeting of which we already knew the conclusion. "No agreement on the so-called recovery plan and probably a clash between member states. "Well, this demonstrates the inefficiencies of the European institutions in providing a response to the crisis. “The Commission made a proposal which was in itself highly inefficient.
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thedailyexpress--2020-06-19--Schools reopening: £1bn catch-up fund for longer days and tutors

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The Government has set aside £650million to be shared across nurseries , schools and post-16 colleges in time for the start of the new school year in September .
There will also be a further a £350million spent on a National Tutoring Programme which will pay for private lessons for children from some of the most deprived backgrounds .
Announcing the package of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` This £1billion catch-up package will help head teachers to provide extra support to children who have fallen behind while out of school .
I am determined to do everything I can to get all children back in school from September , and we will bring forward plans on how this will happen as soon as possible . ''
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson is expected to give further details today .
But it is understood they could see schools in England having longer days and hiring thousands of private tutors .
Other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the end of the day .
That would mean that school hours would not be formally extended but many pupils would be kept in class for longer .
That would come on top of the staggered arrival and finish times which schools are already having to implement .
Mr Williams said : `` We can not afford for any of our children to lose out as a result of Covid-19 .
The scale of our response must match the scale of the challenge .

School ‘catch up fund’ is ‘good news’ says education expert
The Government has set aside £650million to be shared across nurseries, schools and post-16 colleges in time for the start of the new school year in September. There will also be a further a £350million spent on a National Tutoring Programme which will pay for private lessons for children from some of the most deprived backgrounds. Announcing the package of measures, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: "This £1billion catch-up package will help head teachers to provide extra support to children who have fallen behind while out of school. I am determined to do everything I can to get all children back in school from September, and we will bring forward plans on how this will happen as soon as possible."
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson is expected to give further details today. But it is understood they could see schools in England having longer days and hiring thousands of private tutors. Other measures are likely to include extra sessions at the end of the day. That would mean that school hours would not be formally extended but many pupils would be kept in class for longer. That would come on top of the staggered arrival and finish times which schools are already having to implement. Mr Williamson said: "We cannot afford for any of our children to lose out as a result of Covid-19. The scale of our response must match the scale of the challenge.
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson
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thedailyexpress--2020-06-19--UK coronavirus blunder: Expert attacks devolution for 'confusing' COVID-19 response

Westminster 's Scottish Affairs Committee was told that there was a “ lack of transparency ” from the UK Government in the early days of the crisis .
The committee heard evidence about the COVID-19 response from four researchers on Thursday as part of an inquiry into how the four UK nations are handling the crisis .
Currently , lockdown is dealt with by the three devolved administrations and Westminster for England instead of a one nation approach .
Professor Linda Bauld , from the University of Edinburgh was asked by Conservative MP Andrew Bowie asked her if the `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ efforts at tackling coronavirus .
The public health professor and behavioural scientist , said : `` I think so - I would n't say it 's the main reason .
`` Let 's be frank , I should have said at the beginning , we have done appallingly badly in terms of international comparisons .
`` In terms of excess mortality , I think Spain is the only country in Europe that 's slightly ahead of us .
`` We have not handled this pandemic well , in any part of the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health messages had been difficult to understand for members of the public .
Professor Bauld added : `` I think it 's been very confusing how the decisions have been made at UK level , not all decisions but some decisions .
`` I think in Scotland , again it 's not perfect at all.
” Prof Bauld stressed the SAGE advisory group is almost devoid of people with `` on the ground public health experience '' despite having eminent members in other fields .
Nicola McEwen , co-director of the Centre on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been confusion .
She said that the UK Government hadn ’ t “ always been clear when public health messages are directed at England alone '' .
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’ Boris urged to BAN European supertrawlers [ REVEAL ] Labour humiliation : Party warned Keir Starmer is NOT enough to win [ REVEAL ] Akash Paun , a senior fellow at the Institute for Government , also told the committee there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relations ” between the different governments in the UK .
In Scotland , Nicola Sturgeon has come under fire for her handling of dealing with the pandemic with opposition parties claiming that she is too slow when deciding to lift lockdown .
Jackson Carlaw , Scottish Conservative leader , said in Holyrood yesterday : “ Scotland does n't just need a plan to open back up , it needs a route map to recovery .
It needs imagination , ambition and an open mind .
`` Children need a plan so they can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a plan so they can get back to work , Scotland needs a plan so we can avoid a depression as great as any of us have ever seen . ''
Adam Tomkins , Scottish Tory MSP for Glasgow echoed Mr Carlaw ’ s calls and said : “ Seriously ?
Scotland inches painfully slowly out of lockdown .
Plaid Cymru also criticised First Minister Mark Drakeford in Wales saying they should “ make clear ” on what sectors are next to be reopened .
Health spokesman Rhun ap Iorwerth AM said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and as safely as possible and to consistently test and challenge the decisions they take as we move towards a new normality '' .

Nicola Sturgeon moves Scotland to ‘next phase’ of lockdown exit
Westminster's Scottish Affairs Committee was told that there was a “lack of transparency” from the UK Government in the early days of the crisis. The committee heard evidence about the COVID-19 response from four researchers on Thursday as part of an inquiry into how the four UK nations are handling the crisis.
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Currently, lockdown is dealt with by the three devolved administrations and Westminster for England instead of a one nation approach. Professor Linda Bauld, from the University of Edinburgh was asked by Conservative MP Andrew Bowie asked her if the "messy" nature of devolution had hampered efforts at tackling coronavirus. The public health professor and behavioural scientist, said: "I think so - I wouldn't say it's the main reason. "Let's be frank, I should have said at the beginning, we have done appallingly badly in terms of international comparisons.
The four UK nations are taking a different approach to easing lockdown.
Boris Johnson is leading England's approach.
"In terms of excess mortality, I think Spain is the only country in Europe that's slightly ahead of us. "We have not handled this pandemic well, in any part of the UK." She said the diverging public health messages had been difficult to understand for members of the public. Professor Bauld added: "I think it's been very confusing how the decisions have been made at UK level, not all decisions but some decisions. READ MORE: Brexit: Boris Johnson warns Emmanuel Macron over trade negotiations
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The SNP leader is taking a more cautious approach to easing lockdown.
Mark Drakeford will announce further measures today.
Akash Paun, a senior fellow at the Institute for Government, also told the committee there is a need for “stronger formal relations” between the different governments in the UK. In Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon has come under fire for her handling of dealing with the pandemic with opposition parties claiming that she is too slow when deciding to lift lockdown. Jackson Carlaw, Scottish Conservative leader, said in Holyrood yesterday: “Scotland doesn't just need a plan to open back up, it needs a route map to recovery. It needs imagination, ambition and an open mind. "Children need a plan so they can get back to school, parents need a plan so they can get back to work, Scotland needs a plan so we can avoid a depression as great as any of us have ever seen."
Northern Ireland FM's Arlene Foster and Michelle O'Neill.
Adam Tomkins, Scottish Tory MSP for Glasgow echoed Mr Carlaw’s calls and said: “Seriously? Scotland inches painfully slowly out of lockdown. “Meanwhile the economic devastation grows worse and worse.” Plaid Cymru also criticised First Minister Mark Drakeford in Wales saying they should “make clear” on what sectors are next to be reopened. Health spokesman Rhun ap Iorwerth AM said the FM should "relax restrictions as fast and as safely as possible and to consistently test and challenge the decisions they take as we move towards a new normality".
UK nations are taking a different approach out of lockdown.


thedailyexpress--2020-06-19--Air bridges could see Government SUED as Raab admits flaw in blow to holidays

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Ministers are under pressure to create so-called air bridges to low risk destinations to allow people to travel freely without having to self-isolate when they arrive or return .
But the Foreign Secretary warned that travel operators that lose out under the terms could pursue the government in the courts .
He said ministers were looking at how to allow international travel to resume “ safely and responsibly ” .
`` Of course there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open up for one country and not others so we want to make sure we can open up - and this is our starting point - as soon as we can safely and responsibly do so , ” Mr Raab said .
`` If you open up the airports and do n't open up the Eurotunnel or if you open up to one country but not in relation to others there is always a risk of legal challenge . ''
Senior Conservative backbencher Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown said he is `` confident '' that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ corridors introduced by the end of June .
The treasurer of the 1922 Committee said : `` I am pretty confident by June 28 or thereabouts that we will have had some negotiations on the paired corridors with countries which have lower rates than ours .

Ministers are under pressure to create so-called air bridges to low risk destinations to allow people to travel freely without having to self-isolate when they arrive or return. But the Foreign Secretary warned that travel operators that lose out under the terms could pursue the government in the courts. He said ministers were looking at how to allow international travel to resume “safely and responsibly”.
"Of course there is a risk of legal challenge if you open up for one country and not others so we want to make sure we can open up - and this is our starting point - as soon as we can safely and responsibly do so,” Mr Raab said.
"If you open up the airports and don't open up the Eurotunnel or if you open up to one country but not in relation to others there is always a risk of legal challenge."
Senior Conservative backbencher Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown said he is "confident" that quarantine measures will be eased with travel corridors introduced by the end of June.
The treasurer of the 1922 Committee said: "I am pretty confident by June 28 or thereabouts that we will have had some negotiations on the paired corridors with countries which have lower rates than ours.


thedailyexpress--2020-06-20--Brexit blow: EU leaders are refusing to backdown on fisheries for one reason

A French official confirmed the status of negotiations to Reuters .
But , they also reiterated the need to remain firm on fisheries and level playing field issues .
They explained : “ No leader sought to review Michel Barnier ’ s mandate.
” The EU has previously said an agreement on fisheries is a pre-existing condition to a free trade agreement .
Britain insists any agreement must be based on an understanding that British waters are primarily for British boats , The UK formally left the European Union in January .
Until the end of the year , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time , EU laws and regulations will still apply .
This means fishing fleets of each country have full access to each others ’ water .
The first 12 nautical miles from the coast is excluded .
READ MORE : 'Walk away ! '
Boris Johnson faces demands to leave Brexit talks This means more than 60 percent of fish in British waters are caught by foreign boots .
On Wednesday , European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told the European Parliament : “ No one questions the UK sovereignty over its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ predictability and we asked for guarantees for fisherman and fisher women who have been sailing in those waters for decades.
” Having spoken to Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Monday , she insisted that the EU was prepared to compromise .
Mrs von der Leyen acknowledged the transition period will not be extended : “ We on our side have always been ready to grant extension , but it needs two to tango .
“ This means that we are now halfway through these negotiations with five months left to go but we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to reach an agreement with little time ahead of us .
“ No one can say with certainty , where these negotiations will be at the end of the year .

Brexit: Hilary Benn urges EU to ‘drop level playing field’ demand
EU leaders also reiterated the need to remain firm on fisheries and level playing field issues during the virtual summit. A French official said: “No leader sought to review Michel Barnier’s mandate.”
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The EU has previously said an agreement on fisheries is a pre-existing condition to a free trade agreement. Britain insists any agreement must be based on an understanding that British waters are primarily for British boats, The UK formally left the European Union in January. Until the end of the year, it is a transition period.
Boris Johnson spoke to Ursula von der Leyen this week
Michel Barnier is the EU chief negotatior
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During this time, EU laws and regulations will still apply. This includes the Common Fisheries Policy. This means fishing fleets of each country have full access to each others’ water. The first 12 nautical miles from the coast is excluded. READ MORE: 'Walk away!' Boris Johnson faces demands to leave Brexit talks
Ursula von der Leyen gave MEPs an update on Wednesday
Fishing boots moored in Brixham harbour
Francois-Xavier Bellamy is a French MEP
This means more than 60 percent of fish in British waters are caught by foreign boots. On Wednesday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told the European Parliament: “No one questions the UK sovereignty over its own waters, but we asked for predictability and we asked for guarantees for fisherman and fisher women who have been sailing in those waters for decades.” Having spoken to Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Monday, she insisted that the EU was prepared to compromise.
Five moments that lead to Brexit
Mrs von der Leyen acknowledged the transition period will not be extended: “We on our side have always been ready to grant extension, but it needs two to tango. “This means that we are now halfway through these negotiations with five months left to go but we're definitely not halfway through the work to reach an agreement with little time ahead of us. “No one can say with certainty, where these negotiations will be at the end of the year.
Britain voted to leave on 23 June 2016


thedailyexpress--2020-06-20--German diplomat lambasts Britain as he belittles UK politics as 'archaic and sport-like'

Peter Wittig , who worked as German ambassador to the UK from July 2018-April 2020 , has made a scathing assessment of UK politics .
He described the system as `` archaic '' and suggested that British politicians are averse to compromise .
Mr Wittig made the comments in an interview with German news site Der Spiegel , where he discussed his experiences in Britain .
The former diplomat said that British politics was vastly different to that in Germany .
He said : `` From our point of view , politics in Great Britain still has many archaic elements @ @ @ @ @ @ @ called this the 'dignified parts of the constitution ' : the monarchy , the venerable customs - and the debate parliament .
`` Britain is a country of speakers , and there is always a playful element to it .
`` This has little to do with politics and parliament in Germany , where things are much more technocratic , serious and often a bit boring .
`` You could occasionally even get surprising insights . ''
Mr Wittig went on to describe UK politics as having a `` sporting nature '' , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
JUST IN : German envoy lashes at UK Brexit plot - 'They NEVER understood' He said : `` You have to understand the sporting nature of these debates first .
`` But of course it is also problematic that British politics always thinks only of winners and losers and knows no culture of compromise - this is also a big difference to Germany . ''
But the former German ambassador did say that many of Britain 's leading politicians came across as `` reasonable '' when he spoke to them in person @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaders like Jacob Rees-Mogg or Michael Gove .
DO N'T MISS : Boris Johnson mocks Keir Starmer as he tears him apart in PMQs row [ VIDEO ] Boris warned he will lose majority ahead of meeting with backbenches [ DETAILS ] Boris Johnson rages at Starmer 's claim PM 'deflecting ' from COVID-19 [ INSIGHT ] '' They often gave passionate speeches in Parliament like in the Oxford Debating Society .
`` Before you meet them in person , you think , oh God , those are really extreme views .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people , it turns out they are very reasonable , listen and appear in a completely different light . ''
The German diplomat also suggested the Brexit debate had altered British politics .

Laura Kuenssberg warns government over policy ‘U-turns’
Peter Wittig, who worked as German ambassador to the UK from July 2018-April 2020, has made a scathing assessment of UK politics. He described the system as "archaic" and suggested that British politicians are averse to compromise.
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Mr Wittig made the comments in an interview with German news site Der Spiegel, where he discussed his experiences in Britain. The former diplomat said that British politics was vastly different to that in Germany. He said: "From our point of view, politics in Great Britain still has many archaic elements. "The constitutional historian Walter Bagehot called this the 'dignified parts of the constitution': the monarchy, the venerable customs - and the debate parliament.
Peter Wittig has heavily criticised the UK political system
Peter Wittig suggested that British politicians are averse to compromise
"Britain is a country of speakers, and there is always a playful element to it. "This has little to do with politics and parliament in Germany, where things are much more technocratic, serious and often a bit boring. "You could occasionally even get surprising insights." Mr Wittig went on to describe UK politics as having a "sporting nature", where each party is determined to win. JUST IN: German envoy lashes at UK Brexit plot - 'They NEVER understood'
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Peter Wittig and his wife Huberta von Voss-Wittig met with the Queen in 2018
Peter Wittig said Michael Gove was 'reasonable' in person
"They often gave passionate speeches in Parliament like in the Oxford Debating Society. "Before you meet them in person, you think, oh God, those are really extreme views. "But when you sit across from these people, it turns out they are very reasonable, listen and appear in a completely different light." The German diplomat also suggested the Brexit debate had altered British politics.
Brexit timeline


thedailyexpress--2020-06-20--Andrew Marr replaced on BBC's prime time Sunday politics show for tragic reason

The BBC presenter , who usually hosts the Andrew Marr Show every Sunday morning , announced the sad news on Twitter this evening .
He said his colleague Nick Robinson will be standing in for him this Sunday .
Andrew Marr wrote on Twitter : `` Good luck and thanks Nick Robinson for taking over Sunday ’ s show .
`` My lovely dad has just died and I am out of action . ''
His father , Donald Marr , was an investment trust manager from Glasgow .
The presenter was flooded with well wishes and messages of condolences @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Julia Hartley-Brewer , TalkRadio breakfast host , wrote : `` I 'm so sorry Andrew .
My condolences .
X '' Deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner said : `` So sorry to hear the news about yr dad , sending my deepest condolences to you and the family x . ''
Lord Chris Rennard , a Lib Dem peer , said : `` Sorry to hear your very sad news , condolences to your family and his friends . ''
A fan of Mr Marr wrote a touching comment and said his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has achieved , they said : `` Andrew , I am so saddened for your loss .
JUST IN : German envoy lashes at UK Brexit plot - 'They NEVER understood' '' I am so sorry and send all my condolences .
`` I ’ m glad your father was alive to see his son become a man who so many people regard so highly , for all the right reasons .
He still lives in you x . ''
The Andrew Marr Show first aired in September 2005 , under its former @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years later the programme was renamed The Andrew Marr Show and has become a prime time Sunday morning show .

Andrew Marr grills David Lammy over UK’s coronavirus strategy
The BBC presenter, who usually hosts the Andrew Marr Show every Sunday morning, announced the sad news on Twitter this evening. He said his colleague Nick Robinson will be standing in for him this Sunday.
Trending
Andrew Marr wrote on Twitter: "Good luck and thanks Nick Robinson for taking over Sunday’s show. "My lovely dad has just died and I am out of action." His father, Donald Marr, was an investment trust manager from Glasgow. The presenter was flooded with well wishes and messages of condolences from colleagues and other social media users. BBC Breakfast presenter Naga Munchetty said: "Sending love and condolences x."
Andrew Marr has announced he will not be hosting Sunday's show
Andrew Marr announced the sad news on Twitter
Julia Hartley-Brewer, TalkRadio breakfast host, wrote: "I'm so sorry Andrew. My condolences. X" Deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner said: "So sorry to hear the news about yr dad, sending my deepest condolences to you and the family x." Lord Chris Rennard, a Lib Dem peer, said: "Sorry to hear your very sad news, condolences to your family and his friends." A fan of Mr Marr wrote a touching comment and said his father would be proud of what he has achieved, they said: "Andrew, I am so saddened for your loss. JUST IN: German envoy lashes at UK Brexit plot - 'They NEVER understood'
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The Andrew Marr Show takes place every Sunday morning
"I am so sorry and send all my condolences. "I’m glad your father was alive to see his son become a man who so many people regard so highly, for all the right reasons. He still lives in you x." The Andrew Marr Show first aired in September 2005, under its former name of Sunday AM. But two years later the programme was renamed The Andrew Marr Show and has become a prime time Sunday morning show.
Nick Robinson will stand in for the presenter this week


thedailyexpress--2020-06-20--German envoy lashes out at UK over Brexit plot - 'They NEVER understood that in London’

Peter Wittig , who worked as German ambassador to the UK from July 2018-April 2020 , has criticised the British Government for failing to understand how the EU works .
He suggested Brexiteers were naive to believe that the fate of Brexit would lie with German Chancellor Angela Merkel - a leading figure within the bloc .
Mr Wittig made the comments in an interview with German news site Der Spiegel , which translates to The Mirror , where he discussed his experiences in Britain .
The former diplomat was asked whether Brexiteers were right to believe that “ the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Merkel 's hands , which , under pressure from the German auto industry , would give in ” .
In response , Mr Wittig appeared to hit out at the UK and accused Britain of failing to understand how the EU works .
He said : “ Of course Germany is one of the most important member states of the EU , and of course the Chancellor has a great influence on the future relationship between the EU and Great Britain .
“ Especially since Germany will take over the EU presidency in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Brexit final is coming up .
“ But the British always tended to personalise things .
“ That 's not how the EU works .
“ They never really understood that in London.
” JUST IN : Macron ’ s snide comments about Boris Johnson exposed : 'It 's a crime ! '
Post-Brexit trade talks with the EU have currently reached a stalement , as both sides fail to reach an agreement on several key issues , such as fishing rights , security and whether the UK should stay tied to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ insisted the two negotiations teams will ramp-up negotiations in the coming weeks and months to ensure a deal is implemented by the end of the year .
Yesterday the Prime Minister met with French President Emmanuel Macron in London , to mark the 80th anniversary of Charles de Gaulle ’ s famous wartime speech urging French citizens to resist the Nazi invasion .
The pair also discussed the coronavirus crisis and the current state of Brexit negotiations .
DO N'T MISS : Nicola Sturgeon fury : How Scotland 's deficit would break EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Emmanuel Macron 's demand to 'overhaul deal ' exposed [ DETAILS ] EU 'terrified ' of prosperous UK 'on its doorstep ' says Ann Widdecombe [ COMMENT ] After the meeting , a Number 10 spokesman said Mr Johnson “ welcomed the agreement to intensify talks in July ” .
He added that Mr Johnson had used the meeting to reiterate that the UK Government “ does not believe it makes sense for there to be prolonged negotiations into the autumn ” .
Mr Wittig is hopeful that a trade deal will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He told the German news site : “ The likelihood that the negotiation will still be successful is greater than that of failure .
”

Brexit: EU 'petrified' Britain won't extend transition says Tice
Peter Wittig, who worked as German ambassador to the UK from July 2018-April 2020, has criticised the British Government for failing to understand how the EU works. He suggested Brexiteers were naive to believe that the fate of Brexit would lie with German Chancellor Angela Merkel - a leading figure within the bloc.
Trending
Mr Wittig made the comments in an interview with German news site Der Spiegel, which translates to The Mirror, where he discussed his experiences in Britain. The former diplomat was asked whether Brexiteers were right to believe that “the fate of Brexit would be in Angela Merkel's hands, which, under pressure from the German auto industry, would give in”. In response, Mr Wittig appeared to hit out at the UK and accused Britain of failing to understand how the EU works. He said: “Of course Germany is one of the most important member states of the EU, and of course the Chancellor has a great influence on the future relationship between the EU and Great Britain.
Brexit news: A former German ambassador has discussed his experiences in Britain
Peter Wittig worked as German ambassador to the UK from July 2018-April 2020
“Especially since Germany will take over the EU presidency in the second half of the year when the Brexit final is coming up. “But the British always tended to personalise things. “That's not how the EU works. “They never really understood that in London.” JUST IN: Macron’s snide comments about Boris Johnson exposed: 'It's a crime!'
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Peter Wittig and his wife Huberta von Voss-Wittig met with the Queen in 2018
Post-Brexit trade talks with the EU have currently reached a stalement, as both sides fail to reach an agreement on several key issues, such as fishing rights, security and whether the UK should stay tied to EU laws. But Boris Johnson has insisted the two negotiations teams will ramp-up negotiations in the coming weeks and months to ensure a deal is implemented by the end of the year. Yesterday the Prime Minister met with French President Emmanuel Macron in London, to mark the 80th anniversary of Charles de Gaulle’s famous wartime speech urging French citizens to resist the Nazi invasion. The pair also discussed the coronavirus crisis and the current state of Brexit negotiations. DON'T MISS:
Nicola Sturgeon fury: How Scotland's deficit would break EU rules [INSIGHT]
Brexit outrage: Emmanuel Macron's demand to 'overhaul deal' exposed [DETAILS]
EU 'terrified' of prosperous UK 'on its doorstep' says Ann Widdecombe [COMMENT]
Boris Johnson met with French President Emmanuel Macron yesterday
Post-Brexit trade talks have currently reached a stalemate
After the meeting, a Number 10 spokesman said Mr Johnson “welcomed the agreement to intensify talks in July”. He added that Mr Johnson had used the meeting to reiterate that the UK Government “does not believe it makes sense for there to be prolonged negotiations into the autumn”. Mr Wittig is hopeful that a trade deal will be reached by the end of the year. He told the German news site: “The likelihood that the negotiation will still be successful is greater than that of failure.”
Brexit timeline


thedailyexpress--2020-06-20--Nicola Sturgeon mocked for 'disingenuous' plan to hand every Scot £11,000 a year

UBI which has been backed by Nicola Sturgeon would see every citizen provided with guaranteed payments no matter what their circumstances are .
A study commissioned by the First Minister recommended that Scots are paid £11,000 a year as part of a £186 million experiment .
It suggests that this could be co-delivered in a three year pilot by the Scottish and UK Governments alongside local authorities .
Councils in Edinburgh , Glasgow , Fife and North Ayrshire worked on the research for two years with NHS Health Scotland , now part of Public Health Scotland , and the Improvement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Scottish government provided £250,000 for the project and have said that a three-year pilot will provide a better understanding of how an income could impact on poverty , unemployment , health and financial wellbeing .
But Holyrood does not have the powers to introduce a universal basic income on its own because the majority of welfare and tax responsibilities are still reserved to Westminster .
The Scottish Conservatives said that the plans would be “ unworkable ” and have questioned the £186m cost .
Councillor Tony Miklinski , leader of the Conservative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Courier : “ This is going to cost £186m in a post-covid environment so unless we can identify a realistic option of paying for it , presumably through taxation , the level of finance needed… if you scale it up to Scotland , the numbers are eye-watering .
“ If we as politicians can ’ t see a way of affording the costs then we are disingenuous at the very best to be taking a pilot forward.
” Chancellor Rishi Sunak also told MPs that the UK government was `` not in favour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and had `` strengthened the safety net for the most vulnerable '' by investing in the existing welfare system .
READ MORE : Sturgeon urged to SACK Scottish education secretary as SNP grilled But First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said of UBI : “ I am a supporter of [ UBI ] , I have long been interested in the concept , I think the case for it has been immeasurably strengthened by the crisis we ’ re living through .
The calls to fund UBI however comes after Scottish ministers warned that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ run out of money .
Ms Sturgeon called on the Treasury to extend financial support for workers and businesses , saying the alternative risks a surge in coronavirus cases or more job losses .
She warned that a UK drop in GDP of more than 20 percent in April “ confirms the scale of the economic crisis that has inevitably been caused by the health crisis we face ” .
DO N'T MISS : UK coronavirus blunder : Expert attacks devolution [ REVEAL ] How Nicola Sturgeon 's independence push was dashed by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confronted on coronavirus record - 'Too slow ' [ REVEAL ]

Nicola Sturgeon calls for ‘continued support’ from UK government
UBI which has been backed by Nicola Sturgeon would see every citizen provided with guaranteed payments no matter what their circumstances are. A study commissioned by the First Minister recommended that Scots are paid £11,000 a year as part of a £186 million experiment.
Trending
It suggests that this could be co-delivered in a three year pilot by the Scottish and UK Governments alongside local authorities. Councils in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Fife and North Ayrshire worked on the research for two years with NHS Health Scotland, now part of Public Health Scotland, and the Improvement Service, which supports local authorities. The Scottish government provided £250,000 for the project and have said that a three-year pilot will provide a better understanding of how an income could impact on poverty, unemployment, health and financial wellbeing. But Holyrood does not have the powers to introduce a universal basic income on its own because the majority of welfare and tax responsibilities are still reserved to Westminster.
Nicola Sturgeon has warned about the future of the Scottish economy.
Nicola Sturgeon has backed calls for UBI.
The Scottish Conservatives said that the plans would be “unworkable” and have questioned the £186m cost. Councillor Tony Miklinski, leader of the Conservative group on Fife Council, told The Courier: “This is going to cost £186m in a post-covid environment so unless we can identify a realistic option of paying for it, presumably through taxation, the level of finance needed… if you scale it up to Scotland, the numbers are eye-watering. “If we as politicians can’t see a way of affording the costs then we are disingenuous at the very best to be taking a pilot forward.” Chancellor Rishi Sunak also told MPs that the UK government was "not in favour of a universal basic income", and had "strengthened the safety net for the most vulnerable" by investing in the existing welfare system. READ MORE: Sturgeon urged to SACK Scottish education secretary as SNP grilled
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Rishi Sunak has rejected calls for UBI.
But First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said of UBI: “I am a supporter of [UBI], I have long been interested in the concept, I think the case for it has been immeasurably strengthened by the crisis we’re living through. The calls to fund UBI however comes after Scottish ministers warned that the economy faces financial ruin fearing they could run out of money. Ms Sturgeon called on the Treasury to extend financial support for workers and businesses, saying the alternative risks a surge in coronavirus cases or more job losses. She warned that a UK drop in GDP of more than 20 percent in April “confirms the scale of the economic crisis that has inevitably been caused by the health crisis we face”. DON'T MISS:
UK coronavirus blunder: Expert attacks devolution [REVEAL]
How Nicola Sturgeon's independence push was dashed by economic stats [REVEAL]
Sturgeon furiously confronted on coronavirus record - 'Too slow' [REVEAL]
Working age Scots could soon be given £11,000 a year.


thedailyexpress--2020-06-19--Let's PRETEND we're in the EU! Sturgeon to ‘copycat’ EU laws in bid to stick with Brussels

Constitution Secretary Mike Russell MSP said a new Bill at Holyrood will mean , on devolved matters , Scottish law can keep in line with those in Europe `` when appropriate and practicable to do so '' .
Nicola Sturgeon ’ s government says its UK Withdrawal from the European Union ( Continuity ) ( Scotland ) Bill will provide for continuity of provision that would otherwise be lost with Brexit .
The discretionary power will come into effect after the transition period ends on December 31 .
The Bill also includes provisions to ensure EU environment principles and governance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ body called Environmental Standards Scotland will be set up to ensure compliance with environmental law .
The Scottish Government ’ s Constitution Secretary criticised Boris Johnson ’ s Westminster Government for what he claimed was a lack of engagement with the devolved UK nations over the Brexit deadline .
Mr Russell said today : `` It is completely unacceptable that Scotland has been taken out of the EU but this Bill will enable us , in devolved areas at least , to 'keep pace ' with Europe , when appropriate and practicable to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a direct result of the UK 's withdrawal from the EU , and is more urgent because of the UK Government 's reckless refusal to ask for an extension to the Brexit transition period .
`` The Bill 's proposals on environmental principles and governance will also help us to maintain high standards , in line with the EU , in Scotland.
” He continued : `` These important measures complement our Environment Strategy for Scotland vision , published in February , to help us as we protect and restore Scotland 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our planet 's sustainable limits .
READ MORE : Nicola Sturgeon fury : How Scotland 's deficit would break EU rules '' It proposes the creation of a new governance body - Environmental Standards Scotland - which will be able to investigate whether public authorities are failing to comply with environmental law , to take steps to ensure public authorities remedy any failure to comply with environmental law , as well as to investigate the effectiveness and delivery of environmental law by public authorities . ''
These new laws will also make it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU after the country gained independence from the UK , should the Scottish people wish to do so .
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and Mark Drakeford had previously written to Boris Johnson to request an extension to the Brexit process last week .
Ms Sturgeon believes that more time is required to complete negotiations and support businesses through recovery from the coronavirus pandemic .
DO N'T MISS : Guy Verhofstadt mercilessly mocked by Brexiteers after EU tweet [ REVEAL ] Laurence Fox : Why Lewis star 'hated hierarchy ' amid BLM comments [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Labour report spells disaster for leader [ REVEAL ] However , Cabinet office minister Michael Gove confirmed there would be no extension beyond 31st December .
Because of this , Mr Russell also indicated that the SNP could “ revisit ” putting plans for a second independence referendum on hold after the UK Government refused to compromise .
He added : “ The fact that they ’ ve refused to do so shows me that the compromise that we have taken in order to ensure that all our resources are focused on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ revisit.
” He also questioned the timing of the Brexit process , which will coincide with a recovery from one of the worst recessions in recorded history after GDP dropped by 20 percent .

Nicola Sturgeon moves Scotland to ‘next phase’ of lockdown exit
Constitution Secretary Mike Russell MSP said a new Bill at Holyrood will mean, on devolved matters, Scottish law can keep in line with those in Europe "when appropriate and practicable to do so". Nicola Sturgeon’s government says its UK Withdrawal from the European Union (Continuity) (Scotland) Bill will provide for continuity of provision that would otherwise be lost with Brexit.
Trending
The discretionary power will come into effect after the transition period ends on December 31. The Bill also includes provisions to ensure EU environment principles and governance can continue in Scotland. A new body called Environmental Standards Scotland will be set up to ensure compliance with environmental law. The Scottish Government’s Constitution Secretary criticised Boris Johnson’s Westminster Government for what he claimed was a lack of engagement with the devolved UK nations over the Brexit deadline.
Scotland could join the EU if it gains independence under IndyRef2.
But UK chief negotiator David Frost declined a two year Brexit extension.
Mr Russell said today: "It is completely unacceptable that Scotland has been taken out of the EU but this Bill will enable us, in devolved areas at least, to 'keep pace' with Europe, when appropriate and practicable to do so. "It is required as a direct result of the UK's withdrawal from the EU, and is more urgent because of the UK Government's reckless refusal to ask for an extension to the Brexit transition period. "The Bill's proposals on environmental principles and governance will also help us to maintain high standards, in line with the EU, in Scotland.” He continued: "These important measures complement our Environment Strategy for Scotland vision, published in February, to help us as we protect and restore Scotland's natural environment and strive to live within our planet's sustainable limits. READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon fury: How Scotland's deficit would break EU rules
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Scotland and Wales have begged Boris Johnson to extend the transition period.
"It proposes the creation of a new governance body - Environmental Standards Scotland - which will be able to investigate whether public authorities are failing to comply with environmental law, to take steps to ensure public authorities remedy any failure to comply with environmental law, as well as to investigate the effectiveness and delivery of environmental law by public authorities." These new laws will also make it much easier for Scotland to rejoin the EU after the country gained independence from the UK, should the Scottish people wish to do so. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and Mark Drakeford had previously written to Boris Johnson to request an extension to the Brexit process last week. Ms Sturgeon believes that more time is required to complete negotiations and support businesses through recovery from the coronavirus pandemic. DON'T MISS:
Guy Verhofstadt mercilessly mocked by Brexiteers after EU tweet [REVEAL]
Laurence Fox: Why Lewis star 'hated hierarchy' amid BLM comments [REVEAL]
Starmer crisis: One line in Labour report spells disaster for leader [REVEAL]
IndyRef2 could be back on the table after SNP requests to extend Brexit were ignored.
However, Cabinet office minister Michael Gove confirmed there would be no extension beyond 31st December. Because of this, Mr Russell also indicated that the SNP could “revisit” putting plans for a second independence referendum on hold after the UK Government refused to compromise. He added: “The fact that they’ve refused to do so shows me that the compromise that we have taken in order to ensure that all our resources are focused on COVID-19 is something we will need to revisit.” He also questioned the timing of the Brexit process, which will coincide with a recovery from one of the worst recessions in recorded history after GDP dropped by 20 percent.
The EU is remaining firm on access to fishing waters.


thedailyexpress--2020-06-19--Boris Johnson age: How much older is Boris than Carrie Symonds?

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Boris Johnson is celebrating his birthday today , likely with his fiancee Carrie Symonds and new son by his side .
But just how old is the Prime Minister today and how much older is he than his soon-to-be wife Carrie ?
How old is Boris Johnson ?
Boris Johnson was born on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Charlotte Fawcett .
Today he is celebrating his 56th birthday today ( June 19 ) .
This year is his first birthday celebrating as Prime Minister from 10 Downing Street .
READ MORE : Brexit news : What would ending the transition with no deal mean ?
• Boris Johnson opens up on baby Wilfred as he gives rare update The PM is likely to celebrate with his fiancee Carrie Symonds .
She is the daughter of The Independent newspaper 's co-founder Matthew Symonds and lawyer Josephine McAfee .
The couple have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his second wife Marina Wheeler .
Miss Symonds moved into Downing Street with the Prime Minister one week after he was elected Tory Party leader .
The couple announced their engagement and said they were expecting a baby earlier this year .
In February , Ms Symonds posted on Instagram that they had gotten engaged at the end of last years , adding she felt `` incredibly blessed '' .
Mr Johnson and Ms Symonds had been the first unmarried couple to occupy Downing Street when they moved in last year .
Ms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a prime minister in 174 years .
DO N'T MISS Boris Johnson family : A look at PM ’ s family - Who are his children ?
[ INSIGHT ] Boris Johnson health : How is Boris Johnson ?
‘ Continues to improve ’ [ EXPLAINER ] Boris Johnson girlfriend : How Carrie Symonds is peacekeeping for PM [ PICTURES ] How old is Carrie Symonds ?
This means she celebrated her 32nd birthday , this year making her 24 years younger than her husband-to-be .
This is , in fact , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Emmanuel Macron , 42 , and his wife Brigitte , 67 .
Carrie gave birth to their son , Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson on April 29 of this year .
The names are a tribute to their grandfathers and two doctors who treated Mr Johnson while he was in hospital with coronavirus , Ms Symonds wrote in an Instagram post .
The birth came just weeks after Mr Johnson was discharged from intensive care at another London hospital following treatment for coronavirus .
The newborn baby boy is only the third baby to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ living memory .

Boris Johnson opens up on baby Wilfred as he gives rare update
Who is Carrie Symonds?
The PM is likely to celebrate with his fiancee Carrie Symonds.
She is the daughter of The Independent newspaper's co-founder Matthew Symonds and lawyer Josephine McAfee.
The couple have been together since Mr Johnson separated from his second wife Marina Wheeler.
Miss Symonds moved into Downing Street with the Prime Minister one week after he was elected Tory Party leader.


thedailyexpress--2020-06-19--Guy Verhofstadt mercilessly mocked by Brexiteers after EU tweet ‘We are leaving!’

The MEP urged people to follow him in his “ fight for a stronger and more democratic Europe ” .
He added : “ Together , we can build a fairer , better and brighter Europe !
Are you with me ?
” But the post prompted a string of replies from Brexiteers who mocked Mr Verhofstadt .
One commented : “ I am surprised you can spell democratic Guy .
We are leaving , and we are glad we are leaving .
# Brexit.
” Another said : “ No we 're leaving good luck.
” A third wrote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Except for the EU .
Get rid of that and if will be even better .
“ Unless that is the better and brighter that you mentioned ?
” Another commented : “ Finally he admits the EU has never been Fair , or very Bright.
” A fifth said : “ We are doing just that right now building a brighter future .
This is why we left the European union.
” READ MORE : Verhofstadt backlash after ANOTHER United States of Europe demand One more added : “ We send our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you achieve everything you need .
JUST NOT WITH THE UNITED KINGDOM .
Adios.
” The UK legally left the EU on January 31 and is in a transition period with Brussels until the end of the year .
Four rounds of trade talks have made little progress but Boris Johnson insisted there was a `` very good '' chance of striking a post-Brexit deal following a virtual summit with EU leaders on Monday .
DO N'T MISS Brexit backlash : Guy Verhofstadt savaged after yet another attack [ INSIGHT ] EU crisis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ der Leyen [ VIDEO ] Brexit chaos : Brussels pressured to drop 'level playing field ' demand [ ANALYSIS ] The Prime Minister called for an agreement to be reached by the end of July .
He said : `` I do n't think we 're actually that far apart , but what we need now is to see a bit of oomph in the negotiations . ''
Mr Johnson said it was `` very clear what the UK needs '' from the agreement .
He added : `` We ca n't have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Justice in this country , we ca n't have a system whereby we continue to have to obey EU law even when we 're out of the EU and we 've got to get a great deal for our fish . ''
On a deadline for the talks to give businesses certainty about what to expect from January 1 , the Prime Minister said : `` What we already said today is the faster we can do this the better , we see no reason why you should n't get that done in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clear , we fought an election based on these ideas , the manifesto was very clear .
`` I certainly do n't want to see it going on to the autumn/winter as I think perhaps in Brussels they would like . ''
European Council chief Charles Michel , European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen and European Parliament president David Sassoli represented the EU side in the video conference .

Brexit is 'threatening sovereignty of the UK' says Verhoftsadt
The MEP urged people to follow him in his “fight for a stronger and more democratic Europe”. He added: “Together, we can build a fairer, better and brighter Europe! Are you with me?”
But the post prompted a string of replies from Brexiteers who mocked Mr Verhofstadt. One commented: “I am surprised you can spell democratic Guy. We are leaving, and we are glad we are leaving. #Brexit.” Another said: “No we're leaving good luck.” A third wrote: “Europe is perfectly fine. Except for the EU. Get rid of that and if will be even better.
Guy Verhofstadt has been mocked by Brexiteers after tweeting about a “more democratic” EU
The MEP urged people to follow him in his “fight for a stronger and more democratic Europe”
“Unless that is the better and brighter that you mentioned?” Another commented: “Finally he admits the EU has never been Fair, or very Bright.” A fifth said: “We are doing just that right now building a brighter future. This is why we left the European union.” READ MORE: Verhofstadt backlash after ANOTHER United States of Europe demand
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The post prompted a string of replies from Brexiteers who mocked Mr Verhofstadt
Together, we can build a fairer, better and brighter Europe! Are you with me? #IAmEuropean pic.twitter.com/SvzyyBlEwu — Guy Verhofstadt (@guyverhofstadt) June 19, 2020
The Prime Minister called for an agreement to be reached by the end of July. He said: "I don't think we're actually that far apart, but what we need now is to see a bit of oomph in the negotiations." Mr Johnson said it was "very clear what the UK needs" from the agreement. He added: "We can't have the involvement of the European Court of Justice in this country, we can't have a system whereby we continue to have to obey EU law even when we're out of the EU and we've got to get a great deal for our fish."
The UK legally left the EU on January 31 and is in a transition period with Brussels until the end of the year
Four rounds of trade talks have made little progress but Boris Johnson insisted there was a "very good" chance of striking a post-Brexit deal following a virtual summit with EU leaders on Monday
On a deadline for the talks to give businesses certainty about what to expect from January 1, the Prime Minister said: "What we already said today is the faster we can do this the better, we see no reason why you shouldn't get that done in July. "The issue is very clear, we fought an election based on these ideas, the manifesto was very clear. "I certainly don't want to see it going on to the autumn/winter as I think perhaps in Brussels they would like." European Council chief Charles Michel, European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen and European Parliament president David Sassoli represented the EU side in the video conference.
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-06-20--Brexit blow: EU leaders are refusing to back down on fisheries for one reason

The EU has previously said an agreement on fisheries is a pre-existing condition to a free trade agreement .
Britain insists any agreement must be based on an understanding that British waters are primarily for British boats , The UK formally left the European Union in January .
Until the end of the year , it is a transition period .
During this time , EU laws and regulations will still apply .
This means fishing fleets of each country have full access to each others ’ water .
The first 12 nautical miles from the coast is excluded .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Boris Johnson faces demands to leave Brexit talks This means more than 60 percent of fish in British waters are caught by foreign boots .
On Wednesday , European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told the European Parliament : “ No one questions the UK sovereignty over its own waters , but we asked for predictability and we asked for guarantees for fisherman and fisher women who have been sailing in those waters for decades.
” Having spoken to Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Monday , she insisted that the EU was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Leyen acknowledged the transition period will not be extended : “ We on our side have always been ready to grant extension , but it needs two to tango .
“ This means that we are now halfway through these negotiations with five months left to go but we 're definitely not halfway through the work to reach an agreement with little time ahead of us .
“ No one can say with certainty , where these negotiations will be at the end of the year .


thedailyexpress--2020-06-20--Oh dear, Keir! Brexiteer MOCKS Labour leader - 'Still behind Tories!'

Writing in The Telegraph , Tom Harwood pointed out the new Labour leader was still trailing behind the Tories in recent opinion polls - despite Boris Johnson 's plunging approval rating .
He said : “ The party he leads has not once managed to inch ahead of the Tories in opinion polls .
“ This does not bode well for him , given the unprecedented events of recent months and series of arguably poor judgement calls from the Government.
” He stressed Labour ’ s gains appeared to be “ at the expense of post-election Tory support , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” .
He added : “ Whilst this number gazing is undoubtedly interesting , political commentary can often focus too much on polling.
” The political commentator did however acknowledge Sir Keir ’ s personal popularity has “ certainly grown ” , admitting he was becoming more recognised with the “ Remain supporting side of the electorate ” .
But he claimed Sir Keir had been “ repeatedly thrown by unscripted changes ” during parliamentary debates .
He added : “ In both April and May across the dispatch box he asked his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ answered in the exchange .
“ Either he wasn ’ t listening , or the Keirbot can is prone to getting stuck.
” Mr Harwood also claimed Sir Keir constantly “ sits on the fence ” when it comes to making the parties policies clear .
Highlighting one example , the commentator said in the early days of the Coronavirus crisis , Sir Keir ’ s Labour Party echoed the Government ’ s line of ‘ listen to the scientists ’ .
But Sir Keir then blamed Prime Minister Boris Johnson for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the easing of the lockdown and criticized his approach .
Mr Harwood added : “ This fence sitting is severely hampering Labour ’ s ability to land any serious blows on the Government .
“ Had he taken clearer positions , Keir could well have by now been in the lead.
” DO N'T MISS : Starmer crisis : One line in Labour report spells disaster for leader [ REVEAL ] Labour humiliation : Party warned Keir Starmer is NOT enough to win [ REVEAL ] Johnson sent warning after surge in people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ]

Dominic Cummings: Johnson looks ‘weak’ says Starmer
Writing in The Telegraph, Tom Harwood pointed out the new Labour leader was still trailing behind the Tories in recent opinion polls - despite Boris Johnson's plunging approval rating. He said: “The party he leads has not once managed to inch ahead of the Tories in opinion polls.
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“This does not bode well for him, given the unprecedented events of recent months and series of arguably poor judgement calls from the Government.” He stressed Labour’s gains appeared to be “at the expense of post-election Tory support, and more minor parties like the Lib Dems”. He added: “Whilst this number gazing is undoubtedly interesting, political commentary can often focus too much on polling.” The political commentator did however acknowledge Sir Keir’s personal popularity has “certainly grown”, admitting he was becoming more recognised with the “Remain supporting side of the electorate”.
Tom Harwood lashed out at Sir Keir.
Keir Starmer constantly sits on the fence, Mr Harwood claims.
But he claimed Sir Keir had been “repeatedly thrown by unscripted changes” during parliamentary debates. He added: “In both April and May across the dispatch box he asked his sparring partner questions that had already been answered in the exchange. “Either he wasn’t listening, or the Keirbot can is prone to getting stuck.” Mr Harwood also claimed Sir Keir constantly “sits on the fence” when it comes to making the parties policies clear. READ MORE: Labour's 'nonsensical' approach to attracting voters exposed
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Support for Boris Johnson has also fallen.
Highlighting one example, the commentator said in the early days of the Coronavirus crisis, Sir Keir’s Labour Party echoed the Government’s line of ‘listen to the scientists’. But Sir Keir then blamed Prime Minister Boris Johnson for the way Wales and England had diverged in the easing of the lockdown and criticized his approach. Mr Harwood added: “This fence sitting is severely hampering Labour’s ability to land any serious blows on the Government. “Had he taken clearer positions, Keir could well have by now been in the lead.” DON'T MISS:
Starmer crisis: One line in Labour report spells disaster for leader [REVEAL]
Labour humiliation: Party warned Keir Starmer is NOT enough to win [REVEAL]
Johnson sent warning after surge in people who think PM is incompetent [REVEAL]
Despite the concerns, Sir Keir has seen a surge in popularity.


thedailyexpress--2020-06-20--Windrush victims in furious protest outside Downing Street ‘criminals are treated better!’

A group gathered outside Number 10 yesterday to condemn the “ barbaric ” treatment they have endured after being denied the right to work , access healthcare , threatened with deportation or even sent to a country they hadn ’ t lived in for decades .
One victim told the Daily Express he spent weeks in a detention centre after being wrongly held and had the emotional turmoil of watching planes land in a nearby airport - leading to fears he would be put on one of them .
Another grandfather feared he would be detained every time he left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lost the father they were used to amid the stress and strain of the scandal .
A petition signed by over 130,000 people and handed into Downing Street yesterday by two of the campaigners is urging Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Home Secretary Priti Patel must implement the recommendations from a scathing review by Wendy Williams in full .
The petition condemns “ appalling failings ” and urges the Home Office to “ stop any racial discrimination.
” Michael Braithwaite , who lost his job of 17 years at Gospel Oak Primary School @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emotional toll the scandal has had on him and his family .
Mr Braithwaite , 63 , only had documentation from 1973 onwards .
But the Home Office wanted information from when he first landed from Barbados when he was just nine .
He said : “ I was in limbo , the Home Office were saying I couldn ’ t have anything unless I produced documents from 1961 .
“ I hope they realise that we are human beings and that have we have contributed .
“ Our fathers and mothers , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country being the force that it is .
“ Yeah , it was still a force in another way .
But if you use force against goodness , I think that ’ s criminal stuff , you know we ’ re not criminals .
“ I think some criminals get better , a better cut of the cheese than us .
“ I had so much support from my from my colleagues , friends at work , mothers , fathers , children who had left school .
“ And it was a Friday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Home Office and they said we ’ re going to issue you with your biometric card right away .
“ And for me to think of all this time I ’ ve been going through the mellow of this , soul-destroying , mentally destroying thing that has changed me as a human being .
“ I have to find so many distractions to keep myself sane , I get a cycle where I ’ m really really down and I ’ m down and the memories come back for that particular time .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ stand here as the remainder of us , many of us who have left or died , or given up .
“ It ’ s barbaric .
You ’ re going back to days where people had heads on stakes .
I ’ m not comparing to that context , but it is messing with someone ’ s welfare , their mind .
“ My life will never be the same .
“ Leaving the house , I ’ d be frightened someone was going to come and take me .
My family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , six grandchildren .
They are all going through the turmoil not having me as a dad , that dad that they knew .
“ They had this sad person indoors was always edgy thinking that tomorrow may never come for me.
” Anthony Bryan , 62 , spent weeks behind bars after being wrongly detained and had the agonising fear he would be deported as he could see planes landing next to the deportation centre he was being held in .
Mr Bryan , a painter and decorator .
said : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an illegal alien in the country and put me in a detention centre and gave me a ticket to go back to Jamaica .
“ Three years , we have been fighting , I ’ ve been locked up every other year in a detention centre .
“ I couldn ’ t work , I couldn ’ t sign-on , I couldn ’ t go to the doctors .
“ It ’ s been a nightmare to be honest .
“ I didn ’ t think I ’ d ever go through anything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ here since I was nine years ago , I went to primary school here .
“ When I was told I would be deported , it was really frightening .
“ I signed to go back to Jamaica .
My son said , ‘ how can you go back ?
You don ’ t know Jamaica .
“ On my last time in a detention centre , I could see the plane coming in .
“ I thought I was going .
I really thought I was going to be deported .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to stop the think .
Although I didn ’ t buy it , I had to pay to cancel it , £1,300 .
“ I thought they were chucking me away after I ’ d been here for so long .
I was very upset about this .
“ They also asked me am I sure the children are mine , and I had to do a DNA test .
All my kids wrote letters to the Home Office or their mothers wrote letters to the Home Office saying that they know me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 64 , from Wolverhampton , in the West Midlands , said : “ I turned out to be the Windrush grandma who nearly got deported back to Jamaica in 2017 .
“ I got a letter in 2017 saying that I ’ m an illegal immigrant and that I ’ ve got six months or they will send me out of the country .
“ I ’ ve been here all this time in England and now you ’ re telling me I ’ m an illegal immigrant ?
I didn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t understand it now .
“ They tried to kick me out of the place where I built my life .
“ I was born in Jamaica but I don ’ t know Jamaica like I know England .
“ I hope it sends a message , with everything that is going on in the world , this racism has to stop .
“ We are all one people .
Everybody should live in peace and harmony .
“ I couldn ’ t work , I couldn ’ t go to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I had my daughter .
If I needed medication , she would buy it for me .
”

Windrush victims in furious protest outside Downing Street ‘criminals are treated better!’
A group gathered outside Number 10 yesterday to condemn the “barbaric” treatment they have endured after being denied the right to work, access healthcare, threatened with deportation or even sent to a country they hadn’t lived in for decades. One victim told the Daily Express he spent weeks in a detention centre after being wrongly held and had the emotional turmoil of watching planes land in a nearby airport - leading to fears he would be put on one of them.
Another grandfather feared he would be detained every time he left the house and told how his children lost the father they were used to amid the stress and strain of the scandal. A petition signed by over 130,000 people and handed into Downing Street yesterday by two of the campaigners is urging Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Home Secretary Priti Patel must implement the recommendations from a scathing review by Wendy Williams in full. The petition condemns “appalling failings” and urges the Home Office to “stop any racial discrimination.” Michael Braithwaite, who lost his job of 17 years at Gospel Oak Primary School in 2016, told of the horrendous emotional toll the scandal has had on him and his family. Mr Braithwaite, 63, only had documentation from 1973 onwards. But the Home Office wanted information from when he first landed from Barbados when he was just nine. He said: “I was in limbo, the Home Office were saying I couldn’t have anything unless I produced documents from 1961.
Michael Braithwaite outside Downing Street after handing in the petition with 130,000 signatures
“I hope they realise that we are human beings and that have we have contributed. “Our fathers and mothers, you know, that contributed to this country being the force that it is. “Yeah, it was still a force in another way. But if you use force against goodness, I think that’s criminal stuff, you know we’re not criminals. “I think some criminals get better, a better cut of the cheese than us. “I had so much support from my from my colleagues, friends at work, mothers, fathers, children who had left school. “And it was a Friday. I got a call from the Home Office and they said we’re going to issue you with your biometric card right away. “And for me to think of all this time I’ve been going through the mellow of this, soul-destroying, mentally destroying thing that has changed me as a human being. “I’m still rebuilding myself. “I have moments of depression.
Windrush: 'Righting wrongs is absolute priority' says Foster
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The petition urges Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Home Secretary Priti Patel must implement the recommendations from a scathing review by Wendy Williams in full
“I have to find so many distractions to keep myself sane, I get a cycle where I’m really really down and I’m down and the memories come back for that particular time. “Today, I feel that we stand here as the remainder of us, many of us who have left or died, or given up. “It’s barbaric. You’re going back to days where people had heads on stakes. I’m not comparing to that context, but it is messing with someone’s welfare, their mind. “My life will never be the same. “Leaving the house, I’d be frightened someone was going to come and take me. My family suffered. “I have three children, six grandchildren. They are all going through the turmoil not having me as a dad, that dad that they knew. “They had this sad person indoors was always edgy thinking that tomorrow may never come for me.” Anthony Bryan, 62, spent weeks behind bars after being wrongly detained and had the agonising fear he would be deported as he could see planes landing next to the deportation centre he was being held in.
Mr Bryan, a painter and decorator. said: “They arrested me and said I was an illegal alien in the country and put me in a detention centre and gave me a ticket to go back to Jamaica. “Three years, we have been fighting, I’ve been locked up every other year in a detention centre. “I couldn’t work, I couldn’t sign-on, I couldn’t go to the doctors. “It’s been a nightmare to be honest. “I didn’t think I’d ever go through anything like this. I’ve been here since I was nine years ago, I went to primary school here. “When I was told I would be deported, it was really frightening. “I signed to go back to Jamaica. My son said, ‘how can you go back? You don’t know Jamaica. “On my last time in a detention centre, I could see the plane coming in. “I thought I was going. I really thought I was going to be deported. “My missus phoned and said you need to stop the think. Although I didn’t buy it, I had to pay to cancel it, £1,300.
Home Secretary Priti Patel


thedailyexpress--2020-06-20--Boris Johnson insists rugby fans should not be banned from singing Swing Low

As the sport 's governing body reviews the historical context of the song the Prime Minister said there should not be `` any sort of prohibition on singing that song '' and he would `` love '' to hear the full lyrics .
The Rugby Football Union has said the song is `` sung by many who have no awareness of its origins or sensitivities '' , and is evaluating its use amid the recent Black Lives Matter protests .
The song is believed to have its roots in 19th century America , with its credited author being Wallace Willis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked about the song on a visit to a school in Hertfordshire , Mr Johnson said : `` As for Swing Low , Sweet Chariot , nobody as far as I understand it seems to know the words - whenever I go to a rugby match .
They go 'Swing Low Sweet Chariot , coming for to carry me home ' and then it all dies out .
`` How does it go on ?
That 's my objection , that 's my question .
I certainly do n't think there should be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ song . ''
Instead he said people should `` focus less on the symbols of discrimination '' and `` more on the substance of the issue '' .
The anthem has been sung at clubs since the 1960s but came to prominence at Twickenham in 1987 .
Former England international Martin Offiah , 53 , has welcomed the RFU review but does not want the tune banned either .
He told Radio 5 Live : `` The song is not really what the issue is here - the issue is about diversity and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the first step as we progress towards change . ''
But former British and Irish Lions star Brian Moore , 58 , says he `` hates '' Swing Low , Sweet Chariot .
He said : `` It 's definitely an emotional piece of music , very emotive , it stirs up feelings and that 's probably something to do with its history .
`` It was sung because of the rude gestures that went with it and without any thought of its origins .
The world has moved on and , rightly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not necessarily be normal now . ''
England and Saracens star Maro Itoje , 25 , has raised concerns about the song .
He said : `` I do n't think anyone at Twickenham is singing it with malicious intent , but the background of that song is complicated . ''
A spokesman for the RFU said : `` We need to do more to achieve diversity and we are determined to accelerate change and grow awareness . ''

Boris Johnson discusses song ‘Swing Low, Sweet Chariot’
As the sport's governing body reviews the historical context of the song the Prime Minister said there should not be "any sort of prohibition on singing that song" and he would "love" to hear the full lyrics. The Rugby Football Union has said the song is "sung by many who have no awareness of its origins or sensitivities", and is evaluating its use amid the recent Black Lives Matter protests.
The song is believed to have its roots in 19th century America, with its credited author being Wallace Willis - a freed black slave. When asked about the song on a visit to a school in Hertfordshire, Mr Johnson said: "As for Swing Low, Sweet Chariot, nobody as far as I understand it seems to know the words - whenever I go to a rugby match. They go 'Swing Low Sweet Chariot, coming for to carry me home' and then it all dies out. "How does it go on? That's my objection, that's my question. I certainly don't think there should be any sort of prohibition on singing that song." Instead he said people should "focus less on the symbols of discrimination" and "more on the substance of the issue".
Boris Johnson insists rugby fans should not be banned from singing Swing Low, Sweet Chariot
Martin Offiah has welcomed the RFU review but does not want the tune banned either
The anthem has been sung at clubs since the 1960s but came to prominence at Twickenham in 1987. Former England international Martin Offiah, 53, has welcomed the RFU review but does not want the tune banned either. He told Radio 5 Live: "The song is not really what the issue is here - the issue is about diversity and inclusion. "I think this is the first step as we progress towards change." But former British and Irish Lions star Brian Moore, 58, says he "hates" Swing Low, Sweet Chariot.
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thedailyexpress--2020-06-20--Get a round in, Nicola! Landlords TURN on Sturgeon and demand pubs be reopened

Speaking at the First Minister ’ s briefing yesterday , she indicated they may remain closed for `` a couple of weeks '' longer due to emerging evidence about how COVID-19 transmits between people .
She said pubs could have a greater risk of infection because people breathe differently .
However , pub bosses fear they could go out of business if they didn ’ t reopen soon and if social distancing wasn ’ t reduced to 1m from 2m .
In a survey , the Scottish Beer and Pub Association ( SPBA ) found 52.59 percent of staff expect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restriction remains in place .
The Association says this equates to around 23,648 jobs in Scotland .
CEO Emma McClarkin , said : `` Keeping a two-metre rule in place simply does not make financial sense and the fall out will see the loss of thousands of jobs affecting both the Scottish economy and local communities in the process .
`` What 's clear is that the majority of licensed premises will simply not be able to operate under the proposed two-metre distancing , leading to mass unemployment within the sector .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to both reassess the current measures in place if they wish to kick-start the industry and work with us to safeguard over 23,600 jobs . ''
Kevin McGee from the Athletic Arms in Edinburgh , said : `` I 'm bored silly , I 'm a people person and ca n't wait to open the doors .
`` If it 's two metres it 'll most likely be me working with one other on reduced trading hours .
READ MORE : Coronavirus POLL : Does Sturgeon 's new lockdown slogan make sense ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ difference and we can get more staff off furlough , trade longer , start to pay off some bills and support the local community again . ''
Lisa Wishart , Managing Director of the Lisini Pub Group , which runs venues across Lanarkshire , said : `` Here at Lisini 's , it is simply not viable for us to reopen on July 15 due to the current social distancing rules .
`` However , if we followed the World Health Organisation 's directive , not only could we provide a safe environment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to safeguard most of our employees livelihoods as we return to a new normal post-coronavirus . ''
In response , the First Minister said that she hopes to see people enjoying a drink in beer gardens `` before too long '' but she stressed it is still too early to open them safely .
DO N'T MISS : Nicola Sturgeon mocked for 'disingenuous ' plan to hand every Scot £11k [ REVEAL ] Nicola Sturgeon warned England ’ s fishing sector is not suffering [ REVEAL ] SNP ’ s EU passion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ policies [ OPINION ] She added : `` I very much hope to see people able to have a pint - or some of us would prefer a glass of wine or a gin and tonic - in a beer garden before too long .
`` But I want to make sure that 's safe .
`` If a couple more weeks before we have the ability to have a drink in a beer garden means we can keep this virus really suppressed at a low level , and maybe get our schools @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I think most people would think that is a good balance to try to strike . ''
Ms Sturgeon stressed that an investigation was ongoing about more `` protective steps '' which could be taken .

Nicola Sturgeon introduces new ’stay safe’ slogan to Scotland
Speaking at the First Minister’s briefing yesterday, she indicated they may remain closed for "a couple of weeks" longer due to emerging evidence about how COVID-19 transmits between people. She said pubs could have a greater risk of infection because people breathe differently.
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However, pub bosses fear they could go out of business if they didn’t reopen soon and if social distancing wasn’t reduced to 1m from 2m. In a survey, the Scottish Beer and Pub Association (SPBA) found 52.59 percent of staff expect to be made redundant if the two-metre restriction remains in place. The Association says this equates to around 23,648 jobs in Scotland. CEO Emma McClarkin, said: "Keeping a two-metre rule in place simply does not make financial sense and the fall out will see the loss of thousands of jobs affecting both the Scottish economy and local communities in the process.
Nicola Sturgeon is facing a backlash over reopening pubs.
Nicola Sturgeon delivering a briefing.
"What's clear is that the majority of licensed premises will simply not be able to operate under the proposed two-metre distancing, leading to mass unemployment within the sector. "We are calling upon the Scottish Government to both reassess the current measures in place if they wish to kick-start the industry and work with us to safeguard over 23,600 jobs." Kevin McGee from the Athletic Arms in Edinburgh, said: "I'm bored silly, I'm a people person and can't wait to open the doors. "If it's two metres it'll most likely be me working with one other on reduced trading hours. READ MORE: Coronavirus POLL: Does Sturgeon's new lockdown slogan make sense? VOTE
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Pubs closed on March 20th when lockdown started.
"In contrast, a one-metre difference and we can get more staff off furlough, trade longer, start to pay off some bills and support the local community again." Lisa Wishart, Managing Director of the Lisini Pub Group, which runs venues across Lanarkshire, said: "Here at Lisini's, it is simply not viable for us to reopen on July 15 due to the current social distancing rules. "However, if we followed the World Health Organisation's directive, not only could we provide a safe environment for our patrons, we would be able to safeguard most of our employees livelihoods as we return to a new normal post-coronavirus." In response, the First Minister said that she hopes to see people enjoying a drink in beer gardens "before too long" but she stressed it is still too early to open them safely. DON'T MISS:
Nicola Sturgeon mocked for 'disingenuous' plan to hand every Scot £11k [REVEAL]
Nicola Sturgeon warned England’s fishing sector is not suffering [REVEAL]
SNP’s EU passion is one-sided love affair - abandon Euro policies [OPINION]
Pubs in England have offered pints to take away.
She added: "I very much hope to see people able to have a pint - or some of us would prefer a glass of wine or a gin and tonic - in a beer garden before too long. "But I want to make sure that's safe. "If a couple more weeks before we have the ability to have a drink in a beer garden means we can keep this virus really suppressed at a low level, and maybe get our schools back much closer to normal in August, I think most people would think that is a good balance to try to strike." Ms Sturgeon stressed that an investigation was ongoing about more "protective steps" which could be taken.
Outdoor parts of pubs were expected to reopen under phase two.