thedailyexpress--2020-01-24--Rebecca Long-Bailey 'overwhelmingly' supported by Corbyn pal Len McCluskey and Unite union

Unite the Union general secretary Len McCluskey announced it was endorsing Ms Long-Bailey this afternoon .
Mr McCluskey said : `` Unite 's executive council has voted overwhelmingly to back Rebecca Long-Bailey to become the next leader of the Labour party , and Richard Burgon to become the deputy leader .
`` This has been a day of vibrant discussion by the chief decision-making body in the union , the Labour party 's biggest affiliate , about where next for the party .
`` The conclusion of this thorough debate was that Rebecca Long-Bailey is the candidate best-placed to take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behalf of Unite members and their communities looking for a leader who is one hundred per cent on their side .
`` Above all , Becky has the brains and the brilliance to beat Boris Johnson .
She is standing for unity , socialism and the determination to make Johnson 's term in office short-lived .
`` Unite is also confident that Richard will make a superb deputy to Becky , displaying the qualities that have long been absent from that post - pride in our values , a passion for our party @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loyalty to their leader .
`` On behalf of Unite , I want to thank all the candidates for their time and contributions today .
They are a credit to our party and a reminder of the breadth and depth of talent Labour possesses . ''
The four candidates are competing to replace outgoing Jeremy Corbyn following his disasterous general election result last month .
The next leader will be announced on April 4 , with Ms Long-Bailey set to secure her place on the final ballot now she has won union backing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the race to replace Jeremy Corbyn , needs the backing of one more Labour affiliate to secure a place on the ballot paper .
She was endorsed by the Bakers , Food and Allied Workers ' Union last week .
Keir Starmer and Lisa Nandy are already through to the final phase .
READ MORE : Ugly hypocrisy at the heart of Labour wo n't go away , says PAUL BALDWIN And Shadow foreign secretary Emily Thornberry looks set to need the support of 33 constituency Labour parties in order to make the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ onto the ballot , saying `` it will be up to the members in the end '' .
The only other route on to the ballot is by receiving nominations from at least 5 percent of constituency Labour parties ( CLPs ) .
Earlier in the day , Labour announced it had cancelled its leadership hustings in Leeds on Saturday .
DO N'T MISS John Curtice makes alarming prediction on future of Labour Party [ WARNING ] Thornberry blasted for making heroes out of rappers [ WATCH ] BBC Question Time audience member @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] This came after Mr Starmer pulled out as his mother-in-law is critically ill in hospital .
He said on Thursday that he was suspending campaigning after his mother-in-law was involved in a serious accident .
General secretary Jennie Formby said that to ensure fairness to all the candidates , the party 's procedures committee had agreed Saturday 's hustings should not now go ahead .
The deputy leadership hustings will take place as planned .
Ms Long-Bailey sent her `` love and solidarity '' to Mr Starmer after he was forced to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Twitter : `` Very sorry to hear the news about @ Keir-Starmer 's mother in law .
We 're sending all of our love and solidarity to Keir and the family . ''
Rebecca Long-Bailey , viewed as Mr Starmer 's main rival , has previously faced claims she is the `` continuity candidate '' .
She said : `` My approach to things would be very different .
`` For example , talking about security , I think it 's important to make sure that people know that you 're going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's what Jeremy was going to do but sometimes that message did n't come across . ''
She told the Guardian the party had failed to communicate a clear message during the disastrous election campaign .
She said : `` There were so many great policies but there was nothing to really pull them all together , and say 'look , this is what Labour will do - the end result will be this , it will be realising your aspirations ' , ''

Labour leadership: Long-Bailey wins Unite the Union backing
Unite the Union general secretary Len McCluskey announced it was endorsing Ms Long-Bailey this afternoon. Mr McCluskey said: "Unite's executive council has voted overwhelmingly to back Rebecca Long-Bailey to become the next leader of the Labour party, and Richard Burgon to become the deputy leader. "This has been a day of vibrant discussion by the chief decision-making body in the union, the Labour party's biggest affiliate, about where next for the party.
"The conclusion of this thorough debate was that Rebecca Long-Bailey is the candidate best-placed to take the fight to the Tory party on behalf of Unite members and their communities looking for a leader who is one hundred per cent on their side. "Above all, Becky has the brains and the brilliance to beat Boris Johnson. She is standing for unity, socialism and the determination to make Johnson's term in office short-lived. "Unite is also confident that Richard will make a superb deputy to Becky, displaying the qualities that have long been absent from that post - pride in our values, a passion for our party to succeed and, above all, loyalty to their leader. "On behalf of Unite, I want to thank all the candidates for their time and contributions today. They are a credit to our party and a reminder of the breadth and depth of talent Labour possesses."
Rebecca Long-Bailey is being backed by Unite the Union
The four candidates are competing to replace outgoing Jeremy Corbyn following his disasterous general election result last month. The next leader will be announced on April 4, with Ms Long-Bailey set to secure her place on the final ballot now she has won union backing. Ms Long-Bailey, a frontrunner in the race to replace Jeremy Corbyn, needs the backing of one more Labour affiliate to secure a place on the ballot paper. She was endorsed by the Bakers, Food and Allied Workers' Union last week. Keir Starmer and Lisa Nandy are already through to the final phase. READ MORE: Ugly hypocrisy at the heart of Labour won't go away, says PAUL BALDWIN
Ms Long-Bailey is a frontrunner in the race to replace Mr Corbyn
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And Shadow foreign secretary Emily Thornberry looks set to need the support of 33 constituency Labour parties in order to make the ballot. She insisted she will get onto the ballot, saying "it will be up to the members in the end". The only other route on to the ballot is by receiving nominations from at least 5 percent of constituency Labour parties (CLPs). Earlier in the day, Labour announced it had cancelled its leadership hustings in Leeds on Saturday. DON'T MISS
John Curtice makes alarming prediction on future of Labour Party [WARNING]
Thornberry blasted for making heroes out of rappers [WATCH]
BBC Question Time audience member furious at Thornberry's Brexit [VIDEO]
Emily Thornberry also hopes to be in the final stage of the contest
This came after Mr Starmer pulled out as his mother-in-law is critically ill in hospital. He said on Thursday that he was suspending campaigning after his mother-in-law was involved in a serious accident. General secretary Jennie Formby said that to ensure fairness to all the candidates, the party's procedures committee had agreed Saturday's hustings should not now go ahead. The deputy leadership hustings will take place as planned.
Ms Long-Bailey is yet to secure her place on the final ballot
Ms Long-Bailey sent her "love and solidarity" to Mr Starmer after he was forced to cancel campaign events. She said on Twitter: "Very sorry to hear the news about @Keir-Starmer's mother in law. We're sending all of our love and solidarity to Keir and the family." Rebecca Long-Bailey, viewed as Mr Starmer's main rival, has previously faced claims she is the "continuity candidate". She said: "My approach to things would be very different.
Ms Long-Bailey sent her "love and solidarity" to Mr Starmer
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-01-24--Boris Johnson declares monumental 'new chapter in UK history' as he signs-off Brexit deal

The Prime Minister made the announcement on his Twitter page , posting a picture of him signing the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement after the European Union had signed it earlier in the day .
Boris Johnson wrote : `` Today I have signed the Withdrawal Agreement for the UK to leave the EU on January 31st , honouring the democratic mandate of the British people .
This signature heralds a new chapter in our nation ’ s history . ''
Mr Johnson heralded end of `` far too many years of argument and division '' after he signed the Brexit Withdrawal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ departure from the EU next Thursday .
He said the UK can now `` move forward as one country '' after he put his signature to the document in Downing Street .
Earlier on Friday , the presidents of the European Council , Charles Michel , and European Commission , Ursula von der Leyen , formally signed the agreement in Brussels .
The Queen gave royal assent to the legislation on Thursday after the legislation cleared both the House of Commons and and House of Lords .
Mr Johnson said : `` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fantastic moment , which finally delivers the result of the 2016 referendum and brings to an end far too many years of argument and division .
`` We can now move forward as one country - with a Government focused upon delivering better public services , greater opportunity and unleashing the potential of every corner of our brilliant United Kingdom , while building a strong new relationship with the EU as friends and sovereign equals . ''
The Prime Minister signed the document Cabinet Room in Number 10 , witnessed by EU and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treaty from Brussels .
The European Parliament will likely vote to approve the Brexit deal on Wednesday , clearing the path for the UK to finally leave the EU next Friday .
READ MORE : IDS exposes the ‘ most difficult Brexit phase ’ ahead and an EU plot This will make the start of an 11-month transition period , during which the UK will continue to abide by Brussels ’ rules .
Mr Johnson has insisted he wants to agree a full free trade deal with the EU by the end of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transition period beyond that point .
But several leading EU figureheads , including Ms von der Leyen and chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier have warned it will be impossible to strike such a comprehensive agreement within that timeframe .
But it appears Brussels had now finally admitted defeat after a senior EU official revealed the EU is now bound by law to finalise a Brexit deal with Britain in 12 months despite relentless attempts to wriggle their way out of an agreement .
DO N'T MISS EU fear : Why Brussels is terrified @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bloc [ ANALYSIS ] Brexit explained : What does Brexit mean for holidays ?
[ INSIGHT ] Brexit Party MEP issues final Brexit warning to EU before withdrawal [ VIDEO ] A senior official said Boris Johnson ’ s repeated efforts to rule out an extension to the transition period and Brexit itself has forced the EU into surrender .
The bureaucrat , who did not want to be named , said : “ We can assume at this point that the transition period will end on December 31 , 2020.
” The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were ever to be an extension the UK would have to keep paying the membership fee to the EU , which is around £1.2billion monthly .
They said an agreement to extend the transition period “ presupposes an agreement on continued financial participation and contribution from the UK to the EU ” .
Ireland ’ s Foreign Secretary Simon Coveney warned it is “ probably going to take longer than a year ” , while Ms von der Leyen said it may not be feasible ” to do a deal by the end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the Council ’ s Charles Michel put their signature to Boris Johnson ’ s Brexit deal at a sombre ceremony today in Brussels .
Shortly afterwards , Ms von der Leyen wrote on Twitter : “ Charles Michel and I have just signed the Agreement on the Withdrawal of the UK from the EU , opening the way for its ratification by the European Parliament.
” EU Council chief Mr Michel said Britain will remain a partner and ally .

Brexit: UK agreeing trade deal with EU is ’50/50’ says Dutch PM
The Prime Minister made the announcement on his Twitter page last night, posting a picture of him signing the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement after the European Union had signed it earlier in the day. Boris Johnson wrote: "Today I have signed the Withdrawal Agreement for the UK to leave the EU on January 31st, honouring the democratic mandate of the British people. This signature heralds a new chapter in our nation’s history."
Mr Johnson heralded end of "far too many years of argument and division" after he signed the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement ahead of the UK’s departure from the EU next Thursday. He said the UK can now "move forward as one country" after he put his signature to the document in Downing Street. It marks an end to nearly three years of battling both the EU and Remainers who have tried to frustrate Brexit since Article 50 was triggered on MArch 29 2017. Earlier on Friday, the presidents of the European Council, Charles Michel, and European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, formally signed the agreement in Brussels. The Queen gave royal assent to the legislation on Thursday after the legislation cleared both the House of Commons and and House of Lords.
Boris Johnson has hailed the signing of the Brexit deal as 'a new chapter in our nation's history'
The signing of the Withdrawal Agreement is a fantastic moment, which finally delivers the result of the 2016 referendum and brings to an end far too many years of argument and division Boris Johnson
Mr Johnson said: "The signing of the Withdrawal Agreement is a fantastic moment, which finally delivers the result of the 2016 referendum and brings to an end far too many years of argument and division. "We can now move forward as one country - with a Government focused upon delivering better public services, greater opportunity and unleashing the potential of every corner of our brilliant United Kingdom, while building a strong new relationship with the EU as friends and sovereign equals." The Prime Minister signed the document Cabinet Room in Number 10, witnessed by EU and Foreign Office officials who brought him the treaty from Brussels. The European Parliament will likely vote to approve the Brexit deal on Wednesday, clearing the path for the UK to finally leave the EU next Friday. READ MORE: IDS exposes the ‘most difficult Brexit phase’ ahead and an EU plot
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The Prime Minister said the signing of the Withdrawal Agreement is a 'fantastic moment'
This will make the start of an 11-month transition period, during which the UK will continue to abide by Brussels’ rules. Mr Johnson has insisted he wants to agree a full free trade deal with the EU by the end of 2020, and will not extend the transition period beyond that point. But several leading EU figureheads, including Ms von der Leyen and chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier have warned it will be impossible to strike such a comprehensive agreement within that timeframe. But it appears Brussels had now finally admitted defeat after a senior EU official revealed the EU is now bound by law to finalise a Brexit deal with Britain in 12 months despite relentless attempts to wriggle their way out of an agreement. DON'T MISS
EU fear: Why Brussels is terrified of Brexit being ‘painful’ for bloc [ANALYSIS]
Brexit explained: What does Brexit mean for holidays? [INSIGHT]
Brexit Party MEP issues final Brexit warning to EU before withdrawal [VIDEO]
Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel signed the Withdrawal Agreement just hours earlier
Ursula von der Leyen's signature on the Withdrawal Agreement
A senior official said Boris Johnson’s repeated efforts to rule out an extension to the transition period and Brexit itself has forced the EU into surrender. The bureaucrat, who did not want to be named, said: “We can assume at this point that the transition period will end on December 31, 2020.” The source did however reiterate that if there were ever to be an extension the UK would have to keep paying the membership fee to the EU, which is around £1.2billion monthly. They said an agreement to extend the transition period “presupposes an agreement on continued financial participation and contribution from the UK to the EU”.
The UK is set to leave the EU on January 31
Ireland’s Foreign Secretary Simon Coveney warned it is “probably going to take longer than a year”, while Ms von der Leyen said it may not be feasible” to do a deal by the end of 2020. Mrs von der Leyen and the Council’s Charles Michel put their signature to Boris Johnson’s Brexit deal at a sombre ceremony yesterday in Brussels. Shortly afterwards, Ms von der Leyen wrote on Twitter: “Charles Michel and I have just signed the Agreement on the Withdrawal of the UK from the EU, opening the way for its ratification by the European Parliament.” EU Council chief Mr Michel said Britain will remain a partner and ally.
Michel Barnier has fears over the transitional period timeframe
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-01-24--Defeated Remainers plot to hang giant EU banner on cliffs of Dover on January 31

Liberal Democrat MEP Antony Hook has raked in more than £14,000 for his campaign to fly the giant banner which reads “ We still love EU ” .
But despite gaining fierce momentum and smashing his target , Mr Hook has drawn criticism from Brexit supporters , who said Remainers need to “ just get over it ” .
His bid has also been resisted by Dover and Deal Tory MP , Natalie Elphicke , who said a more appropriate message to be put on the famous cliffs on Brexit Day would be “ We love the UK ” .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ was set up with a target of £5,500 before reaching £14,064 , Mr Hook said : “ Sadly , we can ’ t stop Brexit now , but we can send a strong message to the world that we still love Europe .
“ We might be leaving , but whether you voted leave or remain we still want good relations with our nearest neighbours in the future .
“ Our banner will be 150 square metres - which is huge .
We ’ re employing a professional drone pilot to capture the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ target , he wrote on Twitter : “ We ’ re working out ways to make it bigger and more impactful.
” Whipping up support from Remainers , he said : “ Will you help send a powerful signal to the world that we are NOT just the land of Nigel Farage , Boris Johnson and Tommy Robinson ?
” Mr Hook , an MEP for South East England , said the banner “ sends a message to the world that we still value relationships beyond our borders ” .
READ MORE : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a visa for Spain after Brexit ?
But Mrs Elphicke said Brexit Day should be a chance to “ share our positive message about Britain and the future we can make ” and called for “ We love the UK ” to instead be written on the banner “ because we are proud to become an independent nation again ” .
She also said fireworks should be set off at 11pm , the time the UK will officially leave the EU .
Brexit voters and Remain supporters alike were quick to hit out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social media .
DO N'T MISS Brexit explained : What does Brexit mean for holidays ?
[ ANSWERED ] Brexit news : Will there be a medicine shortage after Brexit ?
[ INSIGHT ] John Curtice makes alarming prediction on future of Labour Party [ WARNING ] One Twitter user said : “ Oh dear .
Just get over it .
“ The best is about to arrive .
It was great until we were stabbed in the back and joined in secret .
Now we are free , they can ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ put at the back of the queue , now we are free to do what ’ s best for us.
” Another person wrote on Facebook : “ Regardless of how we all voted , we are leaving .
“ Those of us who voted Remain need to accept it and work together.
” Another slammed : “ Remoaners need to get over it and accept where we are going and change the record .
“ You must have very little else to worry about in your lives.
” One Brexiteer said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK ” displayed on a giant banner was “ even more reason to raise a glass after dry January ” .

Brexit: Big Ben will bong 'one way or another' says Tice
Liberal Democrat MEP Antony Hook has raked in more than £14,000 for his campaign to fly the giant banner which reads “We still love EU”. But despite gaining fierce momentum and smashing his target, Mr Hook has drawn criticism from Brexit supporters, who said Remainers need to “just get over it”. His bid has also been resisted by Dover and Deal Tory MP, Natalie Elphicke, who said a more appropriate message to be put on the famous cliffs on Brexit Day would be “We love the UK”.
Writing on his Crowdfunder page, which was set up with a target of £5,500 before reaching £14,064, Mr Hook said: “Sadly, we can’t stop Brexit now, but we can send a strong message to the world that we still love Europe. “We might be leaving, but whether you voted leave or remain we still want good relations with our nearest neighbours in the future. “Our banner will be 150 square metres - which is huge. We’re employing a professional drone pilot to capture the footage.”
Liberal Democrat MEP Antony Hook has raised £14k to fly an anti-Brexit banner on the cliffs of Dover
Boris Johnson is on track to take the UK out of the EU at 11pm on January 31
After Mr Hook surpassed his target, he wrote on Twitter: “We’re working out ways to make it bigger and more impactful.” Whipping up support from Remainers, he said: “Will you help send a powerful signal to the world that we are NOT just the land of Nigel Farage, Boris Johnson and Tommy Robinson?” Mr Hook, an MEP for South East England, said the banner “sends a message to the world that we still value relationships beyond our borders”. READ MORE: Brexit travel guide: Will I need a visa for Spain after Brexit?
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Thousands of people are expected to celebrate Brexit at 11pm on January 31
But Mrs Elphicke said Brexit Day should be a chance to “share our positive message about Britain and the future we can make” and called for “We love the UK” to instead be written on the banner “because we are proud to become an independent nation again”. She also said fireworks should be set off at 11pm, the time the UK will officially leave the EU. Brexit voters and Remain supporters alike were quick to hit out at Mr Hook’s stunt on social media. DON'T MISS
Brexit explained: What does Brexit mean for holidays? [ANSWERED]
Brexit news: Will there be a medicine shortage after Brexit? [INSIGHT]
John Curtice makes alarming prediction on future of Labour Party [WARNING]
EU presidents Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel this morning signed the Withdrawal Agreement
One Twitter user said: “Oh dear. Just get over it. “The best is about to arrive. It was great until we were stabbed in the back and joined in secret. Now we are free, they can’t hold us back. “We were put at the back of the queue, now we are free to do what’s best for us.” Another person wrote on Facebook: “Regardless of how we all voted, we are leaving.
Three-and-a-half years after voting Leave, British voters will see Brexit delivered next week
“Those of us who voted Remain need to accept it and work together.” Another slammed: “Remoaners need to get over it and accept where we are going and change the record. “You must have very little else to worry about in your lives.” One Brexiteer said the idea of having “We love the UK” displayed on a giant banner was “even more reason to raise a glass after dry January”.
A dog wears an coat with an EU flag design while out on a walk
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-01-24--Brexit LIVE: EU in 'fish for financial services' plot to continue exploiting UK waters

But sources from three international banks fear access will now depend on a trade-off such as Britain allowing fishing in its waters .
One banking source told Reuters : `` We 're now hearing very explicitly -- it 's not even the rumour mill - the European Commission has said these are politically linked to progress in phase-two negotiations , '' one banking source told Reuters .
`` As one official put it to me , if 'fish for financial services ' is going badly , this will impact the Commission 's willingness to grant equivalence . ''
The fishing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ times less than financial services , while official data shows it employs just 8,000 people compared to more than a million in finance .
The UK economy swung back into major growth mode today as the chances of an interest rate cut fell dramatically - and it is all down the so-called Boris Bounce .
Last month ’ s landslide Conservative election win teamed with this week ’ s Brexit sign-off from the Queen has seen traders expect the Bank of England to hold interest rates steady , the Daily Telegraph reports .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( PMI ) showed private sector activity surged this month for the first time in almost half a year , with the index rising to 52.4 in January .
The sum is the highest it has been for more than a year .
IHS Markit said : “ January data highlighted a decisive change of direction for the private sector economy art the start of 2020.
” The former House of Commons Speaker will work part-time with students at Royal Holloway , University of London .
A spokeswoman said : `` We can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has joined the Department of Politics , International Relations and Philosophy at Royal Holloway , University of London , as professor of politics .
`` Professor Bercow will work with undergraduate and postgraduate students on a part-time basis , and will contribute to teaching across the curriculum . ''
Mr Bercow had earlier given a talk to parliamentary studies students at the institution as he began his professorship .
6.06pm update : Boris Johnson declares monumental 'new chapter in UK history ' as he signs-off Brexit deal Boris Johnson has signed off the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the European Union on January 31 , declaring it a monumental `` new chapter in our nation 's history '' .
The Prime Minister made the announcement on his Twitter page , posting a picture of him signing the Withdrawal Agreement .
Mr Johnson wrote : `` Today I have signed the Withdrawal Agreement for the UK to leave the EU on January 31st , honouring the democratic mandate of the British people .
`` This signature heralds a new chapter in our nation ’ s history . ''
5.17pm update : EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal with UK in 12 months Brussels has finally admitted defeat as a senior official has revealed the EU are now bound by law to finalise a Brexit deal with Britain in 12 months despite relentless attempts to wriggle their way out of an agreement .
The EU is now working on the assumption the so-called Brexit transition period after Brexit will terminate at the end in 11 months .
A senior official said Boris Johnson ’ s repeated efforts to rule out an extension to the transition period and Brexit itself has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bureaucrat , who did not want to be named , said : “ We can assume at this point that the transition period will end on December 31 , 2020.
” The source did however reiterate that if there were ever to be an extension the UK would have to keep paying the membership fee to the EU , which is around £1.2billion monthly .
4.36pm update : Michelin-starred chef ‘ refused permission ’ to stay in UK after Brexit Claude Bosi has claimed he has been refused permission to remain in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for 23 years .
The Michelin-starred chef , who runs the Bibendum restaurant in Chelsea , claims his application for the EU Settlement Scheme , to allow him to live and work in the UK after Brexit , has been denied .
According to a post on Instagram , in which he pictured a letter he received from the Home Office , he said : `` I have been in England for 23 years and today they have send me this .
`` I love Britain I considered until today like home but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of tax paid /VAT paid I 'm not welcome anymore . ''
According to the letter , Mr Bosi applied in October for permission to live permanently in the UK after being in the country for more than five years , which is known as settled status .
But the response , dated this week , said this request had been `` refused '' .
3.37pm update : EU chief says bloc will give UK ‘ large access to the single market ’ – but there is a catch Paolo Gentiloni has explained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ access '' to the single market in a post-Brexit trade deal - but also hinted at important conditions .
The former Italian Prime Minister argued the EU is ready to allow the UK to have very large access to the single market in a new trade deal .
He added however that this depends on the work of the UK Government and compliance with the EU ’ s demand .
Mr Gentiloni explained the EU had its rules that it needed to consider and noted the bloc would demand a level playing field @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of WAB ‘ saddest moment of my political career ’ Labour MEP Seb Dance has described the signing of the Withdrawal Agreement Bill as the `` saddest moment in my political career '' .
But in one last desperate act of defiance , he said his final vote will be against Brexit .
Mr Dance tweeted : “ This is the saddest moment in my political career .
“ The WA will pass the EP of course b/c the member states want this agreement .
“ But I can not and will not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ historic mistake for the UK and the EU .
“ My very last vote shall be against Brexit.
” 2.40pm update : Ireland 's deputy in no deal Brexit warning - ' I do n't believe Boris Johnson is bluffing ' Ireland 's Foreign Secretary and Leo Varadkar 's deputy said at Fine Gael 's manifesto launch : `` Let me be very clear , a lot of it is aspirational if we can not get a trade deal with the UK .
`` The manifestos for election 2020 are not deliverable , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ full if Ireland drops the ball .
`` Fine Gael has prevented a hard border , but a trade cliff is possibly 11 months away and I do n't believe Boris Johnson is bluffing and neither do the EU .
`` I read there is voter apathy about Brexit , but that 's not what I 've been hearing from farmers , supporters , and across my own city in Cork , people are without doubt saying we need to do more on public services , but also saying we did a good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and protected the country .
`` Some of our opponents want to brush aside Brexit , Fine Gael will never do that .
I know Micheal Martin better than most , he is not the person I want leading Ireland in the second half of the Brexit challenge .
`` Leo Varadkar is the man to lead not only Brexit but the ambitious future set out in this manifesto .
`` My message is this , get the vision of this manifesto which will transform Ireland for the better , out to voters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one question : Who do you trust to lead Ireland ? ''
2pm update : 'Brexit is not done yet , its only half time ' - Varadkar warning Speaking at the launch of Fine Gael ’ s general election manifesto , Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said : `` Brexit is not done yet .
It 's only half-time .
“ The next step is to negotiate a free trade agreement between the EU , including Ireland , and the United Kingdom that protects our jobs , our businesses , our rural @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` An improving economy and the careful management of our public finances , along with the sensitive stewardship of the upcoming Brexit trade negotiations , will enable us to drive that momentum and provide more houses , more hospital beds , more nurses and Gardai , deliver climate action , and drive tax reform.
” 1.08pm update : Remainers hatch plot to tie UK to EU after Brexit A Liberal Democrat MEP has revealed plans to set up a “ friendship group ” between Britons and Europeans to maintain close ties after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a video posted on Twitter : “ We will not allow Boris Johnson to pretend the speaks for the majority of British citizens .
He doesn ’ t .
“ In fact , 52 percent of people voted for pro-European parties in the general election .
Ironic , isn ’ t it ?
“ In the European Parliament , we work cross-party and cross-country on key issues , building strong international ties .
“ And this cooperation will continue beyond January 31 .
Members of the European Parliament have set up an EU-UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a platform for continued cooperation with Europe and give a voice to the pro-European majority.
” She went to say Remainers across the UK would find the coming days “ worrying and upsetting ” as the UK prepares to leave the bloc .
She admitted she had endured her “ fair share of tears ” on the Brexit issue but claimed “ there are reasons to hope ” .
She continued : “ We will continue to have a voice in Europe , where UK citizens in the EU and EU citizens in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Remain voters are set to hold a candlelit vigil outside the Scottish parliament in Edinburgh when the UK leaves the EU at 11pm on Friday , January 31 .
Edinburgh4Europe have organised the demonstrations outside Holyrood from 10pm to 11.30pm .
Earlier in the day , thousands of Scots are expected to turn out for a “ Missing EU Already ” protest organised by more than a dozen Edinburgh-based groups .
Members of Remain supporting factions and pro-Scottish independence groups are among those due to march .
Brexit Party MEP Belinda de Lucy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issuing a warning to EU leaders in his final speech to the European Parliament 's consitutional affairs committe .
She said : `` Wanting our jobs to end gave BXP MEPs freedom to speak raw truth to the EU in a way other UK MEPs couldn ’ t .
`` Thank you for being our voice @ RupertLowe10 and to the millions of Brits who voted BXP last year and put you there !
Great last speech . ''
Last night Mr Lowe warned the EU not to try to make an example @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : 'At last ! '
- Farage hails signing of WA Brexit Party leader has welcomed the signing of the Withdrawal Agreement `` at last '' .
Nigel Farage said : `` EU bosses now accept Brexit at last , after 3 long years of collusion with Remainers in the UK . ''
11.49am update : Remain MEP says signing of WA 'saddest moment of my political career ' Labour MEP Seb Dance has said watching EU leaders put their signatures on the Withdrawal Agreement was `` the saddest moment in my political @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The WA will pass the EP of course b/c the member states want this agreement .
`` But I can not and will not support something I know to be an historic mistake for the UK and the EU .
`` My very last vote shall be against Brexit . ''
A Liberal Democrat MEP has raised over £14,000 to protect an anti-Brexit message onto the White Cliffs of Dover on January 31 .
Antony Hook , MEP for South East England , said the stunt “ sends a message to the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ borders ” .
He wants to have the phrase `` We still love EU '' displayed on the cliffs .
Mr Hook ’ s crowdfunding campaign has been hit with a backlash from Brexiteers , many of whom are planning on celebrating the historic moment at 11pm next Friday .
Natalie Elphicke , Tory MP for Dover and Deal , said a more fitting message on the iconic cliffs would be “ We love the UK ” .
Voters have taken to social media to give their take on the stunt .
One @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of how we all voted , we are leaving .
“ Those of us who voted Remain need to accept it and work together.
” Another slammed : “ Remoaners need to get over it and accept where we are going and change the record .
“ You must have very little else to worry about in your lives.
” Leading business and trade groups have set out their priorities for the successful introduction of a new immigration system .
They called for flexibility for skilled workers to enter the UK through a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ process .
The UK 's five largest business organisations and around 30 trade associations , from hoteliers to universities , employing millions of people , also welcomed signals that a £30,000 minimum salary test may change .
This would stress that the UK was open for business , they said in a letter to Home Secretary Priti Patel .
The letter said : `` Business understands that the immigration system must change in order to re-build public confidence .
`` Insight from enterprise can help build a points-based model that provides greater control @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and skills needed to support the economy .
`` And this can go hand in hand with a continued determination to invest in training home grown talent . ''
Signatories included the CBI , British Chambers of Commerce , Institute of Directors , Federation of Small Businesses and MakeUK .
A Home Office spokesman said a points-based immigration system would be introduced .
European Council president Charles Michel and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen have signed the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement , the council has said .
The European Parliament is expected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ January 29 ahead of Britain 's departure from the EU on January 31 .
Ms von der Leyen tweeted : `` @ eucopresident Charles Michel and I have just signed the Agreement on the Withdrawal of the UK from the EU , opening the way for its ratification by the European Parliament . ''

Brexit: New trade deals are 'exciting' for Britain says Tory MP
Banks were confident Boris Johnson would prioritise the financial sector - Britain’s largest export industry and biggest corporate tax generator - in trade talks with the European Union. But sources have warned a push from Brussels for fishing access to UK waters, as well as London’s stance it will diverge from EU rules, are prompting them to revisit hard Brexit plans that that could see more jobs than anticipated move to Europe. Financial firms running EU operations from the UK have so far believed technical assessments by EU banking, insurance and markets regulators would be enough judge UK rules 'equivalent' to those governing EU-based firms, granting them market access after December.
But sources from three international banks fear access will now depend on a trade-off such as Britain allowing fishing in its waters. One banking source told Reuters: "We're now hearing very explicitly -- it's not even the rumour mill - the European Commission has said these are politically linked to progress in phase-two negotiations," one banking source told Reuters. "As one official put it to me, if 'fish for financial services' is going badly, this will impact the Commission's willingness to grant equivalence." The fishing industry is valued at a huge 169 times less than financial services, while official data shows it employs just 8,000 people compared to more than a million in finance. FOLLOW BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES:
The UK's finance sector fear the EU is engaging in a 'fish for financial services' plot
Boris Johnson wants to show other countries how quickly the UK can move forward after Brexit
9.27pm update: ‘Decisive change’ Boris Bounce sees British economy SOAR to highest point in a year The UK economy swung back into major growth mode today as the chances of an interest rate cut fell dramatically - and it is all down the so-called Boris Bounce. Last month’s landslide Conservative election win teamed with this week’s Brexit sign-off from the Queen has seen traders expect the Bank of England to hold interest rates steady, the Daily Telegraph reports. Markit’s purchasing managers’ index (PMI) showed private sector activity surged this month for the first time in almost half a year, with the index rising to 52.4 in January. The sum is the highest it has been for more than a year. IHS Markit said: “January data highlighted a decisive change of direction for the private sector economy art the start of 2020.” 8pm update: John Bercow made professor of Politics at London University The former House of Commons Speaker will work part-time with students at Royal Holloway, University of London. A spokeswoman said: "We can confirm that the Right Honourable John Bercow has joined the Department of Politics, International Relations and Philosophy at Royal Holloway, University of London, as professor of politics. "Professor Bercow will work with undergraduate and postgraduate students on a part-time basis, and will contribute to teaching across the curriculum." Mr Bercow had earlier given a talk to parliamentary studies students at the institution as he began his professorship. 6.06pm update: Boris Johnson declares monumental 'new chapter in UK history' as he signs-off Brexit deal Boris Johnson has signed off the Brexit deal for the UK to leave the European Union on January 31, declaring it a monumental "new chapter in our nation's history". The Prime Minister made the announcement on his Twitter page, posting a picture of him signing the Withdrawal Agreement. Mr Johnson wrote: "Today I have signed the Withdrawal Agreement for the UK to leave the EU on January 31st, honouring the democratic mandate of the British people. "This signature heralds a new chapter in our nation’s history."
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Boris Johnson declared the signing of the Withdrawal Agreement a 'new chapter in our nation's history'
5.17pm update: EU finally admits it has to do a deal with UK in 12 months Brussels has finally admitted defeat as a senior official has revealed the EU are now bound by law to finalise a Brexit deal with Britain in 12 months despite relentless attempts to wriggle their way out of an agreement. The EU is now working on the assumption the so-called Brexit transition period after Brexit will terminate at the end in 11 months. A senior official said Boris Johnson’s repeated efforts to rule out an extension to the transition period and Brexit itself has forced the EU into surrender. The bureaucrat, who did not want to be named, said: “We can assume at this point that the transition period will end on December 31, 2020.” The source did however reiterate that if there were ever to be an extension the UK would have to keep paying the membership fee to the EU, which is around £1.2billion monthly. 4.36pm update: Michelin-starred chef ‘refused permission’ to stay in UK after Brexit Claude Bosi has claimed he has been refused permission to remain in the UK permanently after Brexit despite living here for 23 years. The Michelin-starred chef, who runs the Bibendum restaurant in Chelsea, claims his application for the EU Settlement Scheme, to allow him to live and work in the UK after Brexit, has been denied. According to a post on Instagram, in which he pictured a letter he received from the Home Office, he said: "I have been in England for 23 years and today they have send me this. "I love Britain I considered until today like home but they just told me after 23 years of tax paid /VAT paid I'm not welcome anymore." According to the letter, Mr Bosi applied in October for permission to live permanently in the UK after being in the country for more than five years, which is known as settled status. But the response, dated this week, said this request had been "refused".
3.37pm update: EU chief says bloc will give UK ‘large access to the single market’ – but there is a catch Paolo Gentiloni has explained the UK could have "very large access" to the single market in a post-Brexit trade deal - but also hinted at important conditions. The former Italian Prime Minister argued the EU is ready to allow the UK to have very large access to the single market in a new trade deal. He added however that this depends on the work of the UK Government and compliance with the EU’s demand. Mr Gentiloni explained the EU had its rules that it needed to consider and noted the bloc would demand a level playing field for trade. 3.04pm update: Signing of WAB ‘saddest moment of my political career’ Labour MEP Seb Dance has described the signing of the Withdrawal Agreement Bill as the "saddest moment in my political career". But in one last desperate act of defiance, he said his final vote will be against Brexit. Mr Dance tweeted: “This is the saddest moment in my political career. “The WA will pass the EP of course b/c the member states want this agreement. “But I cannot and will not support something I know to be an historic mistake for the UK and the EU. “My very last vote shall be against Brexit.”
Brexit news: Seb Dance said the signing of the WAB is the 'saddest day in my political career'
2.40pm update: Ireland's deputy in no deal Brexit warning - 'I don't believe Boris Johnson is bluffing' Ireland's Foreign Secretary and Leo Varadkar's deputy said at Fine Gael's manifesto launch: "Let me be very clear, a lot of it is aspirational if we cannot get a trade deal with the UK. "The manifestos for election 2020 are not deliverable, in some cases in part or in full if Ireland drops the ball. "Fine Gael has prevented a hard border, but a trade cliff is possibly 11 months away and I don't believe Boris Johnson is bluffing and neither do the EU. "I read there is voter apathy about Brexit, but that's not what I've been hearing from farmers, supporters, and across my own city in Cork, people are without doubt saying we need to do more on public services, but also saying we did a good job and they trust us on Brexit and protected the country. "Some of our opponents want to brush aside Brexit, Fine Gael will never do that. I know Micheal Martin better than most, he is not the person I want leading Ireland in the second half of the Brexit challenge. "Leo Varadkar is the man to lead not only Brexit but the ambitious future set out in this manifesto. "My message is this, get the vision of this manifesto which will transform Ireland for the better, out to voters, because ultimately this comes down to one question: Who do you trust to lead Ireland?" 2pm update: 'Brexit is not done yet, its only half time' - Varadkar warning Speaking at the launch of Fine Gael’s general election manifesto, Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said: "Brexit is not done yet. It's only half-time. “The next step is to negotiate a free trade agreement between the EU, including Ireland, and the United Kingdom that protects our jobs, our businesses, our rural and coastal communities, and our economy. "An improving economy and the careful management of our public finances, along with the sensitive stewardship of the upcoming Brexit trade negotiations, will enable us to drive that momentum and provide more houses, more hospital beds, more nurses and Gardai, deliver climate action, and drive tax reform.”
Brexit news: Leo Varadkar and Simon Coveney both issued warnings
Paul Withers taking over live reporting from Laura O'Callaghan 1.08pm update: Remainers hatch plot to tie UK to EU after Brexit A Liberal Democrat MEP has revealed plans to set up a “friendship group” between Britons and Europeans to maintain close ties after Brexit. Irina von Wiese said in a video posted on Twitter: “We will not allow Boris Johnson to pretend the speaks for the majority of British citizens. He doesn’t. “In fact, 52 percent of people voted for pro-European parties in the general election. Ironic, isn’t it? “In the European Parliament, we work cross-party and cross-country on key issues, building strong international ties. “And this cooperation will continue beyond January 31. Members of the European Parliament have set up an EU-UK friendship group which will give UK citizens a platform for continued cooperation with Europe and give a voice to the pro-European majority.” She went to say Remainers across the UK would find the coming days “worrying and upsetting” as the UK prepares to leave the bloc. She admitted she had endured her “fair share of tears” on the Brexit issue but claimed “there are reasons to hope”. She continued: “We will continue to have a voice in Europe, where UK citizens in the EU and EU citizens in the UK will be heard.” 12.45pm update: Scots set to mourn Brexit with ‘candlelit vigil’ Scottish Remain voters are set to hold a candlelit vigil outside the Scottish parliament in Edinburgh when the UK leaves the EU at 11pm on Friday, January 31. Edinburgh4Europe have organised the demonstrations outside Holyrood from 10pm to 11.30pm. Earlier in the day, thousands of Scots are expected to turn out for a “Missing EU Already” protest organised by more than a dozen Edinburgh-based groups. Members of Remain supporting factions and pro-Scottish independence groups are among those due to march.
Lib Dem MEP Irina von Wiese has revealed politicians will set up a UK-EU 'friendship group'
11.55am update: Brexit Party MEP free to hit EU with 'raw truth' Brexit Party MEP Belinda de Lucy has praised her colleague Rupert Lowe for issuing a warning to EU leaders in his final speech to the European Parliament's consitutional affairs committe. She said: "Wanting our jobs to end gave BXP MEPs freedom to speak raw truth to the EU in a way other UK MEPs couldn’t. "Thank you for being our voice @RupertLowe10 and to the millions of Brits who voted BXP last year and put you there! Great last speech." Last night Mr Lowe warned the EU not to try to make an example out of the UK. 11.53am update: 'At last!' - Farage hails signing of WA Brexit Party leader has welcomed the signing of the Withdrawal Agreement "at last". Nigel Farage said: "EU bosses now accept Brexit at last, after 3 long years of collusion with Remainers in the UK." 11.49am update: Remain MEP says signing of WA 'saddest moment of my political career' Labour MEP Seb Dance has said watching EU leaders put their signatures on the Withdrawal Agreement was "the saddest moment in my political career". He tweeted: "The WA will pass the EP of course b/c the member states want this agreement. "But I cannot and will not support something I know to be an historic mistake for the UK and the EU. "My very last vote shall be against Brexit."
Ursula von der Leyen signs the Brexit deal as Charles Michel and Michel Barnier look on
10.04am update: Anti-Brexit cliff stunt slammed by Brexiteers A Liberal Democrat MEP has raised over £14,000 to protect an anti-Brexit message onto the White Cliffs of Dover on January 31. Antony Hook, MEP for South East England, said the stunt “sends a message to the world that we still value relationships beyond our borders”. He wants to have the phrase "We still love EU" displayed on the cliffs. Mr Hook’s crowdfunding campaign has been hit with a backlash from Brexiteers, many of whom are planning on celebrating the historic moment at 11pm next Friday. Natalie Elphicke, Tory MP for Dover and Deal, said a more fitting message on the iconic cliffs would be “We love the UK”. Voters have taken to social media to give their take on the stunt. One person wrote on Facebook: “Regardless of how we all voted, we are leaving. “Those of us who voted Remain need to accept it and work together.” Another slammed: “Remoaners need to get over it and accept where we are going and change the record. “You must have very little else to worry about in your lives.”
This morning the Withdrawal Agreement was signed by EU leaders
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-01-24--Britons furious at plot to hang giant EU banner on Dover cliffs for Brexit day

Liberal Democrat MEP Antony Hook has raised £14,064 for his campaign to hang the “ eyesore ” , which would read : “ We still love EU ” .
Writing on his Crowdfunder page , Mr Hook said : “ Sadly , we can ’ t stop Brexit now , but we can send a strong message to the world that we still love Europe .
We might be leaving , but whether you voted leave or remain we still want good relations with our nearest neighbours in the future .
“ Our banner will be 150 square metres - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ employing a professional drone pilot to capture the footage.
” But many readers vented their frustration at the plans on the Express.co.uk Facebook page .
Ken Bee wrote : “ Surely would need planning permission to put up with such an eyesore .
“ 14,000 that could have gone to a homeless charity.
” Paul Cook added : “ Better still provide the with a boat so they can ho and join their so loved EU.
” Graham Lacey told Remainers to “ get over it ” and respect the results of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I voted remain but now I ’ m right behind Brexit because that was the result of the referendum .
“ It ’ s time to get over it !
” And Peter Mabon simply said : “ There are too many aircraft and boats available to take the Remainers to Europe .
READ MORE : Boris Johnson urged to prioritise trade deal with Donald Trump Meanwhile , Natalie Elphicke , Conservative MP for Dover and Deal , would rather have a “ We love the UK ” banner hung from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hoping Brexit day will be a chance for the the UK to “ reclaim out place as an independent nation ” .
She wrote on Facebook : “ People in Dover and Deal voted overwhelmingly to leave Europe and reclaim our place as an independent nation .
DO N'T MISS ‘ Decisive change ’ Boris Bounce sees British economy SOAR [ FINANCE ] EU fear : Why Brussels is terrified of Brexit being ‘ painful ’ for bloc [ REVEALED ] Dan Hannan exposes three times EU has 'made up rules as they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This is a moment where we can look forward with ambition to the Britain we can build in the decades to come .
“ A nation where we not only respect the democratic decisions of the British people , but work together to make ours a land of opportunity and prosperity , from which every corner of our country will benefit .
“ That ’ s why the message we should be beaming on to the White Cliffs is that ‘ We love the UK ’ – because we are proud to become @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Brexit Party will blast loudspeakers in Parliament Square to imitate the ringing of Big Ben ’ s bongs on Brexit Day .
They have been silenced while construction work is carried on the 13.7 tonne bell for four years .
An open letter , signed by Nigel Farage and Richard Tice , said : “ We will be celebrating all those who have made this monumental victory for democracy possible - including politicians on the left and the right , campaigners who handed out leaflets in the rain , and the millions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ All are invited to the event , which will run from 9.30-11.15pm , with a prestigious line up of speakers , with extra screens , entertainment and momentos .
“ We are still working on making the famous bell of Big Ben toll , but if bureaucrats in parliament refuse to allow this , we will recreate the sound with out powerful speaker system .

Brexit: EU 'make up rules as they go along' says Daniel Hannan
Liberal Democrat MEP Antony Hook has raised £14,064 for his campaign to hang the “eyesore”, which would read: “We still love EU”. Writing on his Crowdfunder page, Mr Hook said: “Sadly, we can’t stop Brexit now, but we can send a strong message to the world that we still love Europe. We might be leaving, but whether you voted leave or remain we still want good relations with our nearest neighbours in the future.
“Our banner will be 150 square metres - which is huge. We’re employing a professional drone pilot to capture the footage.” But many readers vented their frustration at the plans on the Express.co.uk Facebook page. Ken Bee wrote: “Surely would need planning permission to put up with such an eyesore. “14,000 that could have gone to a homeless charity.”
Britons are furious by plans to hang a pro-EU flag on the Dover cliffs
Paul Cook added: “Better still provide the with a boat so they can go and join their so loved EU.” Graham Lacey told Remainers to “get over it” and respect the results of the 2016 U referendum. He wrote: “I voted remain but now I’m right behind Brexit because that was the result of the referendum. “It’s time to get over it!” And Peter Mabon simply said: “There are too many aircraft and boats available to take the Remainers to Europe. READ MORE: Boris Johnson urged to prioritise trade deal with Donald Trump
Natalie Elphicke wants a We love the UK” banner hung from the cliffs
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The Brexit Party will blast loudspeakers in Parliament Square
“This is a moment where we can look forward with ambition to the Britain we can build in the decades to come. “A nation where we not only respect the democratic decisions of the British people, but work together to make ours a land of opportunity and prosperity, from which every corner of our country will benefit. “That’s why the message we should be beaming on to the White Cliffs is that ‘We love the UK’ – because we are proud to become an independent nation again.” Elsewhere, the Brexit Party will blast loudspeakers in Parliament Square to imitate the ringing of Big Ben’s bongs on Brexit Day.
People in Dover and Deal voted overwhelmingly to leave Europe
They have been silenced while construction work is carried on the 13.7 tonne bell for four years. An open letter, signed by Nigel Farage and Richard Tice, said: “We will be celebrating all those who have made this monumental victory for democracy possible - including politicians on the left and the right, campaigners who handed out leaflets in the rain, and the millions who turned out to vote. “All are invited to the event, which will run from 9.30-11.15pm, with a prestigious line up of speakers, with extra screens, entertainment and momentos. “We are still working on making the famous bell of Big Ben toll, but if bureaucrats in parliament refuse to allow this, we will recreate the sound with out powerful speaker system.
The government will have a clock counting down Brexit
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-01-24--‘Decisive change’ Boris Bounce sees British economy SOAR to highest point in a year

Last month ’ s landslide Conservative election win teamed with this week ’ s Brexit sign-off from the Queen has seen traders expect the Bank of England to hold interest rates steady , the Daily Telegraph reports .
Markit ’ s purchasing managers ’ index ( PMI ) showed private sector activity surged this month for the first time in almost half a year , with the index rising to 52.4 in January .
The sum is the highest it has been for more than a year .
IHS Markit said : “ January data ... highlighted a decisive change @ @ @ @ @ @ @ art the start of 2020.
” The previous month was recorded at 49.3 and any number above 50 signals large growth .
The numbers are the strongest indicator yet that the British economy is back to booming again .
It comes after a month of news that will no doubt delight Brexiteers far and wide , with Boris Johnson ’ s deal getting Royal Assent yesterday having finally been passed through Parliament .
The EU is now working on the assumption the so-called Brexit transition period after Brexit will terminate at the end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said Boris Johnson ’ s repeated efforts to rule out an extension to the transition period and Brexit itself has forced the EU into surrender .
The bureaucrat , who did not want to be named , said : “ We can assume at this point that the transition period will end on December 31 , 2020.
” The source did however reiterate that if there were ever to be an extension the UK would have to keep paying the membership fee to the EU , which is around £1.2billion monthly .
READ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is terrified of Brexit being ‘ painful ’ for bloc [ NEWS ] They said an agreement to extend the transition period “ presupposes an agreement on continued financial participation and contribution from the UK to the EU ” .
Brussels has previously indicated it was unlikely to agree a trade deal before the December deadline and would likely extend the transition period .
Ireland ’ s Simon Coveney said it is “ probably going to take longer than a year ” , while Ursula von der Leyen said it may not be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the end of 2020 .
The bloc today signed the Brexit withdrawal treaty confirming the United Kingdom ’ s departure .
DO N'T MISS : EU finally admits it has to do a deal with UK in 12 months [ NEWS ] Brexit POLL : Which trade deal should Boris Johnson prioritise ?
[ INSIGHT ] Vladimir Putin 's savage snub of 'low level ' David Cameron exposed [ ANALYSIS ] The Prime Minister ’ s spokesman said : “ It has been a long three years but we have got Brexit over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move the whole country forward as one to a brighter future.
” Once Mr Johnson has added his signature to the withdrawal agreement , it will be transported back to Brussels where it will be stored in the bloc ’ s official archive .
The UK is now set for a smooth exit from the bloc on January 31 , some nine months after the original departure date .
Britain will from February 1 enter into the so-called Brexit transition period , under which the country will continue to follow the EU ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be extended up until 2022 but Mr Johnson has warned that he is not willing to keep the country in limbo and will instead seek a trade deal with the bloc by the end of the year .

Brexit: EU 'make up rules as they go along' says Daniel Hannan
Last month’s landslide Conservative election win teamed with this week’s Brexit sign-off from the Queen has seen traders expect the Bank of England to hold interest rates steady, the Daily Telegraph reports. Markit’s purchasing managers’ index (PMI) showed private sector activity surged this month for the first time in almost half a year, with the index rising to 52.4 in January. The sum is the highest it has been for more than a year.
IHS Markit said: “January data... highlighted a decisive change of direction for the private sector economy art the start of 2020.” The previous month was recorded at 49.3 and any number above 50 signals large growth. The numbers are the strongest indicator yet that the British economy is back to booming again. It comes after a month of news that will no doubt delight Brexiteers far and wide, with Boris Johnson’s deal getting Royal Assent yesterday having finally been passed through Parliament.
The UK economy swung back into major growth mode
The sum is the highest it has been for more than a year
The EU is now working on the assumption the so-called Brexit transition period after Brexit will terminate at the end in 11 months. A senior official said Boris Johnson’s repeated efforts to rule out an extension to the transition period and Brexit itself has forced the EU into surrender. The bureaucrat, who did not want to be named, said: “We can assume at this point that the transition period will end on December 31, 2020.” The source did however reiterate that if there were ever to be an extension the UK would have to keep paying the membership fee to the EU, which is around £1.2billion monthly. READ NOW: EU fear: Why Brussels is terrified of Brexit being ‘painful’ for bloc [NEWS]
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The bloc today signed the Brexit withdrawal treaty
Mr Johnson is infamously upbeat compared to stern Mrs May
They said an agreement to extend the transition period “presupposes an agreement on continued financial participation and contribution from the UK to the EU”. Brussels has previously indicated it was unlikely to agree a trade deal before the December deadline and would likely extend the transition period. Ireland’s Simon Coveney said it is “probably going to take longer than a year”, while Ursula von der Leyen said it may not be feasible” to do a deal by the end of 2020. The bloc today signed the Brexit withdrawal treaty confirming the United Kingdom’s departure. DON'T MISS:
EU finally admits it has to do a deal with UK in 12 months [NEWS]
Brexit POLL: Which trade deal should Boris Johnson prioritise? [INSIGHT]
Vladimir Putin's savage snub of 'low level' David Cameron exposed [ANALYSIS]
Brexit is now in seven days
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-01-24--Brexit delay climbdown: EU finally admits it has to do a deal with UK in 12 months

The EU is now working on the assumption the so-called Brexit transition period after Brexit will terminate at the end in 11 months .
A senior official said Boris Johnson ’ s repeated efforts to rule out an extension to the transition period and Brexit itself has forced the EU into surrender .
The bureaucrat , who did not want to be named , said : “ We can assume at this point that the transition period will end on December 31 , 2020.
” The source did however reiterate that if there were ever to be an extension the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ membership fee to the EU , which is around £1.2billion monthly .
They said an agreement to extend the transition period “ presupposes an agreement on continued financial participation and contribution from the UK to the EU ” .
Brussels has previously indicated it was unlikely to agree a trade deal before the December deadline and would likely extend the transition period .
Ireland ’ s Simon Coveney said it is “ probably going to take longer than a year ” , while Ursula von der Leyen said it may not be feasible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end of 2020 .
It comes after EU bosses have signed the Brexit withdrawal treaty confirming the United Kingdom ’ s departure from the bloc .
Mrs von der Leyen and the Council ’ s Charles Michel put their signature to Boris Johnson ’ s Brexit deal at a sombre ceremony today in Brussels .
A copy will now be sent to Downing Street to allow the Prime Minister to complete the process ahead of its ratification in the EU Parliament next week .
Writing on Twitter , European Commission President Mrs von @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and I have just signed the Agreement on the Withdrawal of the UK from the EU , opening the way for its ratification by the European Parliament.
” READ NOW : John Major could have stopped Brexit with simple move but 'blew it ' [ NEWS ] EU Council chief Mr Michel added : “ Things will inevitably change but our friendship will remain .
We start a new chapter as partners and allies.
” Michel Barnier , the EU ’ s chief Brexit negotiator , also attended the event in the bloc @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU ’ s presidents flew back from Israel , where they had been attending events to commemorate the Holocaust .
The 600-page withdrawal agreement will now be transported to the Prime Minister in London to complete the process .
DO N'T MISS : Brexiteer MEP furious at leaked EU plot to fine UK 'like a child ' [ NEWS ] How Jacob Rees-Mogg dubbed UK 's favouritism to Scotland 'absurd ' [ ANALYSIS ] Brexit travel guide : Will I need a visa for Spain after Brexit ?
[ INSIGHT ] MEPs in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ committee recommended their colleagues back the deal in an institutional vote next week .
Just hours before the document was signed this morning , Brexit was enshrined in UK law when the Queen granted Royal Assent to Mr Johnson ’ s deal with Brussels .
In a possible sign of looming celebrations , several cases of English sparkling wine were delivered to Downing Street yesterday .
The Prime Minister ’ s spokesman said : “ It has been a long three years but we have got Brexit over the line and the PM @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as one to a brighter future .
”

Brexit will have 'consequences' for the UK says Olaf Scholz
The EU is now working on the assumption the so-called Brexit transition period after Brexit will terminate at the end in 11 months. A senior official said Boris Johnson’s repeated efforts to rule out an extension to the transition period and Brexit itself has forced the EU into surrender. The bureaucrat, who did not want to be named, said: “We can assume at this point that the transition period will end on December 31, 2020.”
The source did however reiterate that if there were ever to be an extension the UK would have to keep paying the membership fee to the EU, which is around £1.2billion monthly. They said an agreement to extend the transition period “presupposes an agreement on continued financial participation and contribution from the UK to the EU”. Brussels has previously indicated it was unlikely to agree a trade deal before the December deadline and would likely extend the transition period. Ireland’s Simon Coveney said it is “probably going to take longer than a year”, while Ursula von der Leyen said it may not be feasible” to do a deal by the end of 2020.
Brussels has finally admitted defeat
Brussels has previously indicated it was unlikely to agree a trade deal in 2020
It comes after EU bosses have signed the Brexit withdrawal treaty confirming the United Kingdom’s departure from the bloc. Mrs von der Leyen and the Council’s Charles Michel put their signature to Boris Johnson’s Brexit deal at a sombre ceremony today in Brussels. A copy will now be sent to Downing Street to allow the Prime Minister to complete the process ahead of its ratification in the EU Parliament next week. Writing on Twitter, European Commission President Mrs von der Leyen said: “Charles Michel and I have just signed the Agreement on the Withdrawal of the UK from the EU, opening the way for its ratification by the European Parliament.” READ NOW: John Major could have stopped Brexit with simple move but 'blew it' [NEWS]
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
EU bosses have signed the Brexit withdrawal treaty
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MEPs in the EU Parliament’s constitutional affairs committee recommended their colleagues back the deal in an institutional vote next week. Just hours before the document was signed this morning, Brexit was enshrined in UK law when the Queen granted Royal Assent to Mr Johnson’s deal with Brussels. In a possible sign of looming celebrations, several cases of English sparkling wine were delivered to Downing Street yesterday. The Prime Minister’s spokesman said: “It has been a long three years but we have got Brexit over the line and the PM wants to move the whole country forward as one to a brighter future.”
The UK will leave the bloc in seven days


thedailyexpress--2020-01-24--Brexit POLL: Which trade deal should Boris Johnson prioritise? VOTE HERE

The Brexit transition period rules mean Britain can negotiate and sign new trade deals over the next 11 months but not implement them .
The Government ’ s Brexit legislation has cleared all stages inParliament and the UK will now leave the EU on January 31 .
After Brexit Day , the UK will be able to negotiate and sign new trade deals with countries that do not have existing EU deals , such as the US .
THIS POLL HAS NOW CLOSED - SEE RESULTS .
Trade advisors in the UK reportedly think that implementing a US deal first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Britain .
President Trump ’ s Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross has put pressure on the UK to prioritise America before the EU .
He said a deal with Washington “ should be much easier to do mechanically ” than with Brussels .
Mr Johnson has warned Mr Trump both the UK and the US will suffer if Washington begin a trade war .
SEE MORE : Truss vows trade deals outside EU ready be locked in 'within months' This comes after the US Treasury Secretary threatened a tax on UK car exports to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : “ Imposing additional tariffs would harm businesses and consumers on both sides of the Atlantic.
” There are reports that a deal with Japan could be finalised by autumn .
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has told Downing Street that he wants a deal as soon as possible .
Trump waiting to take advantage of diminished Britain , says MEP [ REVIEW ] Former CIA chief blasts Remainers over 'desperate move ' to stop Brexit [ INSIGHT ] UK secures post-Brexit trade deal with South Korea - 'huge gains ' [ VIDEO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Turnbull has warned that any UK trade deal with Australia would not replace the benefits of being inside the world ’ s largest trading bloc .
He told the BBC : “ The reality is that half of your trade more or less goes to the European Union .
Britain ’ s trade with Australia is a very small percentage , as indeed it is with Canada and other countries in the Commonwealth .
“ We in Australia wish Britain the very best .
We are great friends .
When I was PM @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I immediately said to David Cameron and then to his successor , Theresa May , ‘ We will do a free trade deal with you .
We look forward to it ” Chancellor Sajid Javid has warned that the UK will not side with the EU after Brexit .
Speaking about the UK ’ s relationship with the EU after Brexit , Mr Javid has said : “ I will also be expressing my appreciation for all the many things we have achieved together , and also a reassurance that we will remain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we look ahead , the UK will be leaving the EU with confidence and thinking about all the exciting opportunities that lie ahead .
“ We ’ ve been very clear now for many months .
“ And of course in our recent election as well , as we leave the EU we will not be in the single market .
“ We will not be in the customs union .
And we will not be rule takers .
“ At the same time , of course , we want a deep comprehensive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s what we ’ re working on .
”

Brexit: Trade deal can 'absolutely be done' confirms Sajid Javid
The Brexit transition period rules mean Britain can negotiate and sign new trade deals over the next 11 months but not implement them. The Government’s Brexit legislation has cleared all stages inParliament and the UK will now leave the EU on January 31. After Brexit Day, the UK will be able to negotiate and sign new trade deals with countries that do not have existing EU deals, such as the US. THIS POLL HAS NOW CLOSED - SEE RESULTS.
Boris Johnson will be securing post Brexit trade deals
Trade advisors in the UK reportedly think that implementing a US deal first would be a big boost for post-Brexit Britain. President Trump’s Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross has put pressure on the UK to prioritise America before the EU. He said a deal with Washington “should be much easier to do mechanically” than with Brussels. Mr Johnson has warned Mr Trump both the UK and the US will suffer if Washington begin a trade war. SEE MORE: Truss vows trade deals outside EU ready be locked in 'within months'
Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe wants his country to be prioritised
Boris Johnson is free to forge new trade deals after Brexit Day
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The former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has warned that any UK trade deal with Australia would not replace the benefits of being inside the world’s largest trading bloc. He told the BBC: “The reality is that half of your trade more or less goes to the European Union. Britain’s trade with Australia is a very small percentage, as indeed it is with Canada and other countries in the Commonwealth. “We in Australia wish Britain the very best. We are great friends. When I was PM when the Brexit vote was carried, I immediately said to David Cameron and then to his successor, Theresa May, ‘We will do a free trade deal with you. We look forward to it” Chancellor Sajid Javid has warned that the UK will not side with the EU after Brexit.
Donald Trump wants Johnson to prioritise America with its trade deals


thedailyexpress--2020-01-25--'A bully and a liar!' John Bercow torn apart in ferocious attack by former Black Rod

David Leakey hit out just days after Lord Lisvane , the former clerk of the House of Commons , submitted complaints of bullying against Mr Bercow to the Parliamentary Standards Authority .
Speaking yesterday , Mr Leakey said : “ I ’ m aware that two other people are considering putting forward complaints .
“ I appeal to anybody who has been subject to bullying to bring forward their complaints .
`` In my case , he 's denied bullying me .
`` In my own experience , I would call him a liar .
It 's simply not true @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plenty of witnesses to that as well .
“ So I 'm sure there will be other people coming forward . ''
Mr Bercow , who was perceived by many Brexiteers as working to thwart Brexit during his time in office , has complained about the Government ’ s apparent decision not to offer him a peerage - but Mr Leakey told Sky News : `` I would n't want to make any direct comparison between the charges levelled against Harvey Weinstein in New York at the moment with the allegations made against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ different order .
`` But the film industry is no more going to recognise Harvey Weinstein for a lifetime award for his achievements in the film industry - and nor should John Bercow be given a lifetime peerage in the House of Lords .
He added : “ My opinion is that he brutalised staff in the House of Commons and elsewhere , including myself in that .
`` It was n't just those top people , it was people much further down the pecking order .
`` And he tried to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that went into his office .
JUST IN : ‘ Doubters were wrong all along !
’ Project Fear destroyed “ I ’ m 67 years old .
I 've worked in the military , government departments in Brussels and Whitehall and Westminster , in business , in Parliament for seven years .
`` I 've never seen anybody in my entire life treat anybody as badly as John Bercow treated regularly the people around him .
Including the leaders of the house in the House of Commons.
” In a statement issued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s complaint , Mr Bercow `` categorically '' denied ever bullying anyone , questioning the `` curious '' timing of his former colleague ’ s intervention as Mr Bercow seeks to become a peer .
He said it had “ become increasingly obvious that the Government has no intention of honouring the centuries-old convention that a departing speaker is promptly elevated to the House of Lords '' since his retirement at the end of last month .
READ MORE Refused to play woke !
’ Piers Morgan praises QT guest [ VIDEO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Labour manifesto flaws [ INSIGHT ] Rebecca Long-Bailey hints she smoked cannabis when younger [ REACTION ] He said : “ Indeed , it has been suggested to me that the Government actively seeks to block any other attempt to nominate me for membership of the upper House .
`` I have seen in the media that Lord Lisvane is formally complaining that I bullied staff .
“ For the record , I categorically deny that I have ever bullied anyone , anywhere at any time . ''

John Bercow peerage 'not a good idea' says former Black Rod
David Leakey hit out just days after Lord Lisvane, the former clerk of the House of Commons, submitted complaints of bullying against Mr Bercow to the Parliamentary Standards Authority. Speaking yesterday, Mr Leakey said: “I’m aware that two other people are considering putting forward complaints. “I appeal to anybody who has been subject to bullying to bring forward their complaints.
"In my case, he's denied bullying me. "In my own experience, I would call him a liar. It's simply not true. And I'm sure there are plenty of witnesses to that as well. “So I'm sure there will be other people coming forward." Mr Bercow, who was perceived by many Brexiteers as working to thwart Brexit during his time in office, has complained about the Government’s apparent decision not to offer him a peerage - but Mr Leakey told Sky News: "I wouldn't want to make any direct comparison between the charges levelled against Harvey Weinstein in New York at the moment with the allegations made against John Bercow. They're of a different order.
John Bercow was branded a "bully" by former Black Rod David Leakey
Former House of Commons clerk Lord Lisvane has lodged a formal complaint
"But the film industry is no more going to recognise Harvey Weinstein for a lifetime award for his achievements in the film industry - and nor should John Bercow be given a lifetime peerage in the House of Lords. He added: “My opinion is that he brutalised staff in the House of Commons and elsewhere, including myself in that. "It wasn't just those top people, it was people much further down the pecking order. "And he tried to do it with others - politicians as well that went into his office. JUST IN: ‘Doubters were wrong all along!’ Project Fear destroyed
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David Leakey during his time as Black Rod in 2015
I've never seen anybody in my entire life treat anybody as badly as John Bercow treated regularly the people around him David Leakey - formerly Black Rod
“I’m 67 years old. I've worked in the military, government departments in Brussels and Whitehall and Westminster, in business, in Parliament for seven years. "I've never seen anybody in my entire life treat anybody as badly as John Bercow treated regularly the people around him. Including the leaders of the house in the House of Commons.” In a statement issued on Thursday in response to Lord Lisvane’s complaint, Mr Bercow "categorically" denied ever bullying anyone, questioning the "curious" timing of his former colleague’s intervention as Mr Bercow seeks to become a peer. He said it had “become increasingly obvious that the Government has no intention of honouring the centuries-old convention that a departing speaker is promptly elevated to the House of Lords" since his retirement at the end of last month. READ MORE
Refused to play woke!’ Piers Morgan praises QT guest [VIDEO]
Emily Thornberry blasted as she denies Labour manifesto flaws [INSIGHT]
Rebecca Long-Bailey hints she smoked cannabis when younger [REACTION]
John Bercow in his former role as House of Commons Speaker
David Leakey and John Bercow at the state opening of Parliament on 2017
He said: “Indeed, it has been suggested to me that the Government actively seeks to block any other attempt to nominate me for membership of the upper House. "I have seen in the media that Lord Lisvane is formally complaining that I bullied staff. “For the record, I categorically deny that I have ever bullied anyone, anywhere at any time."
Britain's constitution explained
Lord Lisvane, a colleague of five years, had "ample opportunity to raise any concerns about such conduct with me”, Mr Bercow suggested. He said: “Therefore, he had not merely a right but a responsibility to act if he thought that he witnessed misconduct. "The simple fact is that he did not at any time do so.
Mr Leakey even mentioned US film producer Harvey Weinstein - while stressing the cases were not comparable
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thedailyexpress--2020-01-25--'Do one!' Britons furious as Macron demands EU has access to UK water for 25 YEARS

The UK is on course to leave the EU on January 31 before entering an 11-month transition period until the end of 2020 .
But France has reportedly insisted Britain must give the bloc access to its fishing waters for 25 years after Brexit if it wants to strike a free trade agreement .
Express.co.uk readers vented their anger on the Daily Express Facebook page .
One commented : “ No way Boris we need to rebuild our fishing industry that was practically destroyed by the EU we must ensure we have sufficient fisheries protection vessels.
” Another wrote : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
Stole our fish for years !
!
Put our fishing boats out of business !
!
The fish now are no better than sardines they do n't have time to grow.
” A third posted : “ Definitely NOT if it happens then they ’ ll send in huge tankers and empty our waters of fish , tell them to do one , forgive me if I ’ m wrong but wasn ’ t it a pledge to take back our waters.
” A fourth pointed out : “ This is one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ One more said : “ The EU made our fishermen suffer , it 's payback time for their fishermen to suffer.
” A sixth added : “ Macron is in no position to DEMAND anything.
” READ MORE : 'Acute fear ' for UK fishermen at risk of being sold off in UK-EU deal The UK is believed to only be willing to accept a one-year agreement on fishing , putting Boris Johnson on a collision course with the EU .
It comes after the Prime Minister heralded the end of `` far @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” as he signed the Withdrawal Agreement yesterday , saying the UK can now `` move forward as one country ” .
Earlier on Friday , European Council President Charles Michel and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen signed the agreement in Brussels .
Mr Johnson said : `` The signing of the Withdrawal Agreement is a fantastic moment , which finally delivers the result of the 2016 referendum and brings to an end far too many years of argument and division .

Brexit: Mummery warns EU could 'control fisheries' in UK
The UK is on course to leave the EU on January 31 before entering an 11-month transition period until the end of 2020. But France has reportedly insisted Britain must give the bloc access to its fishing waters for 25 years after Brexit if it wants to strike a free trade agreement.
Express.co.uk readers vented their anger on the Daily Express Facebook page. One commented: “No way Boris we need to rebuild our fishing industry that was practically destroyed by the EU we must ensure we have sufficient fisheries protection vessels.” Another wrote: “Macron has had his party !! Stole our fish for years !! Put our fishing boats out of business !! The fish now are no better than sardines they don't have time to grow.” A third posted: “Definitely NOT if it happens then they’ll send in huge tankers and empty our waters of fish, tell them to do one, forgive me if I’m wrong but wasn’t it a pledge to take back our waters.”
Express.co.uk readers reacted with fury to Emmanuel Macron’s fishing demands
A fourth pointed out: “This is one of the reasons we wanted out.” One more said: “The EU made our fishermen suffer, it's payback time for their fishermen to suffer.” A sixth added: “Macron is in no position to DEMAND anything.” READ MORE: 'Acute fear' for UK fishermen at risk of being sold off in UK-EU deal
France has reportedly insisted Britain must give the bloc access to its fishing waters for 25 years after Brexit
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The UK is believed to only be willing to accept a one-year agreement on fishing
The UK is believed to only be willing to accept a one-year agreement on fishing, putting Boris Johnson on a collision course with the EU. It comes after the Prime Minister heralded the end of "far too many years of argument and division” as he signed the Withdrawal Agreement yesterday, saying the UK can now "move forward as one country”. Earlier on Friday, European Council President Charles Michel and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen signed the agreement in Brussels. Mr Johnson said: "The signing of the Withdrawal Agreement is a fantastic moment, which finally delivers the result of the 2016 referendum and brings to an end far too many years of argument and division.
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thedailyexpress--2020-01-25--‘Doubters were wrong all along!’ Project Fear destroyed as UK outperforms EU

Mr Baron was speaking days after an International Monetary Fund ( IMF ) analysis painted a rosy picture of the UK economy , in sharp contrast to former chief Christine Lagarde ’ s predictions of doom and gloom heading into the 2016 referendum .
The IMF is predicting growth of 1.4 percent this year and 1.5 per percent in 2021 , in each case better than in the Euro Area , where the figures are 1.3 percent and 1.4 percent respectively - and Mr Baron , MP for Basildon and Billericay in Essex , suggested the figures demonstrated the importance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK economy .
He explained : “ I do sense that one of the defining characteristics of this debate is whether you are an optimist or not .
“ I think that self-belief in our country will grow when perhaps those who are doubtful realise that actually we are doing quite well economically .
“ Project Fear predicted just that - the CBI in the spring of 2016 predicted 9150,000 job losses within a couple of years , the Bank of England and the IMF were talking about a recession by Christmas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ All that was proved wrong - we ’ ve had three years of so-called uncertainty and what ’ s happened in those three years ?
“ Well , actually the British economy has performed better than most .
READ MORE : DUH !
We got it wrong !
IMF FINALLY admits Brexit Britain will boom “ It has outperformed the Eurozone , we have nearly half the rate of unemployment , there are all sorts of positives .
“ We have more inward investment than France and Germany combined , and that ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we have certainty , we are already beginning to see that confidence , that self-belief , come into play more .
“ I see a golden decade in front of us as long as we don ’ t take anything for granted and believe in our country.
” DO N'T MISS US airstrikes LIVE : Updates as fears of World War 3 erupt over Iran [ LIVE ] Iran attack : Who was General Qassem Soleimani killed in US airstrike ?
[ SPOTLIGHT ] Iran news : What happened in US drone strike @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] With this in mind , Mr Baron also suggested it was now time to begin moving beyond Brexit , urging everyone to tone down some of the rhetoric .
He said : “ Some of the language on both sides was unfortunate but I think the EU has woken up to the reality that we are serious in what we are now saying .
“ I think it was a good move that the Commons has ruled out extending the period for negotiating a trade deal beyond the end of this year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ focus minds .
“ I ’ m more optimistic than some in believing that we should be able to negotiate a trade deal in this time period - I don ’ t see why it would be a problem.
” He also suggested Brexit represented a fantastic opportunity for Britain to branch out into the wider world by striking massive trade deals with third countries , not just the United States but others including Thailand and Brazil , as part of a ‘ global Britain ’ strategy .
He said : “ For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a focal point .
“ Europe is important but I would suggest it is no more important than any other part of the world .
“ At the end of the day , we are all global citizens .
“ We have an immigration system whilst we are in the European Union which in effect discriminates against the rest of the world outside the EU .

Brexit: Predictions of economic disaster were ‘wrong’ says Baron
Mr Baron was speaking days after an International Monetary Fund (IMF) analysis painted a rosy picture of the UK economy, in sharp contrast to former chief Christine Lagarde’s predictions of doom and gloom heading into the 2016 referendum. The IMF is predicting growth of 1.4 percent this year and 1.5 per percent in 2021, in each case better than in the Euro Area, where the figures are 1.3 percent and 1.4 percent respectively - and Mr Baron, MP for Basildon and Billericay in Essex, suggested the figures demonstrated the importance of showing faith in the robustness of the UK economy. He explained: “I do sense that one of the defining characteristics of this debate is whether you are an optimist or not.
“I think that self-belief in our country will grow when perhaps those who are doubtful realise that actually we are doing quite well economically. “Project Fear predicted just that - the CBI in the spring of 2016 predicted 950,000 job losses within a couple of years, the Bank of England and the IMF were talking about a recession by Christmas 2016 if we voted Leave. “All that was proved wrong - we’ve had three years of so-called uncertainty and what’s happened in those three years? “Well, actually the British economy has performed better than most. READ MORE: DUH! We got it wrong! IMF FINALLY admits Brexit Britain will boom
Boris Johnson's Britain is outperforming Ursula von der Leyen's EU, said Mr Baron
Former IMF chief Christine Lagarde
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Billericay and Basildon MP John Baron MP
With this in mind, Mr Baron also suggested it was now time to begin moving beyond Brexit, urging everyone to tone down some of the rhetoric. He said: “Some of the language on both sides was unfortunate but I think the EU has woken up to the reality that we are serious in what we are now saying. “I think it was a good move that the Commons has ruled out extending the period for negotiating a trade deal beyond the end of this year - I think that will help to focus minds.
The Bank of England, led by Governor Mark Carney, also issued gloomy predictions
Brexit: Ben Habib brands Project Fear 'terminally ill'
“I’m more optimistic than some in believing that we should be able to negotiate a trade deal in this time period - I don’t see why it would be a problem.” He also suggested Brexit represented a fantastic opportunity for Britain to branch out into the wider world by striking massive trade deals with third countries, not just the United States but others including Thailand and Brazil, as part of a ‘global Britain’ strategy. He said: “For too long the European Union has been a focal point.
A Brexit timeline
“Europe is important but I would suggest it is no more important than any other part of the world. “At the end of the day, we are all global citizens. “We have an immigration system whilst we are in the European Union which in effect discriminates against the rest of the world outside the EU.
The UK is tipped to outperform the Eurozone this year and next
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