thedailyexpress--2020-12-18--Brexit LIVE: Brussels MUTINY as EU states about to overrule Brussels on no deal deadline

One diplomat told The Daily Telegraph : `` The treaty is clear .
The Council can decide on provisional application without the European Parliament .
“ We will endeavour to keep them on board of course but if that ’ s the only way to an operational deal the member states will be looking to the treaty.
” Following Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen 's call on Thursday , officials stated substantial progress had been made but two points of difference remain .
It is thought , state aid is yet to be resolved although there has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fair competition .
In terms of fishing , however , the two sides still remain apart with sources indicating the EU has demanded an 8 year transition period over fisheries .
UK officials have so far denied the request but reports have stated the UK would allow a five to seven-year grace period to be able to agree a deal .
This would allow EU fleets continued access to Britain 's rich waters despite the UK having left the bloc on January 31 .
Downing Street said in a statement last night : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ negotiations were now in a serious situation .
`` Time was very short and it now looked very likely that agreement would not be reached unless the EU position changed substantially.
” If a deal were to be agreed in time , MEPs have declared they will hold an emergency plenary at the end of the month .
Manfred Weber , chair of the Parliament 's European People 's Party said : `` After Sunday we can not reasonably scrutinise the deal before the end of the year .
The agreement is too @ @ @ @ @ @ @ update : EU countries to overrule EU Parliament to stop no deal Member states may ignore the EU Parliament and give any deal provisional approval before the turn of the year .
MEPs have set Sunday as the deadline for a deal to be agreed in order for it to then be ratified before the end of the transition .
According to The Daily Telegraph , some MEPs have declared their own national government could step in to stop a no deal Brexit before the end of the year .
As negotiations are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could take place past the Parliament 's own deadline of December 21 , although officials could allow MEPs provisional approval of any deal .
The chief executive of Dover , has told companies and lorry drivers to expect disruption following the end of the transition period .
Doug Bannister said : `` We are expecting that there will be some disruption but the one thing that the Port of Dover has is a proven track record of being able to clear disruption very effectively and get back to normal operations.
” Asked if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he insisted there could be some challenges with French fishermen in EU ports .
“ You can imagine that if there ’ s a no deal or a bad deal , say , about fishing rights , then there could be some challenges with some French fishermen in the ports over on the French side - there could be disruption on the trains as well with burning tyres on the tracks and that kind of stuff . ''
Speaking today , Mr Johnson stated the UK will continue to pursue a Brexit deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he insisted the `` door is still open '' for an agreement .
Prime Minister said : “ Obviously the UK ’ s position is always that we want to keeping talking if there ’ s any chance of a deal .
“ But we ’ ve also got to recognise that the UK ’ s got to be able to control its own laws , it ’ s what people voted for , and we ’ ve also got to be able to control our waters and fishing rights.
” “ Our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keep talking but I have to say things are looking difficult .
There ’ s a gap that needs to be bridged.
” 11.58am update : Will it ever end ?
UK business chiefs issue Brexit warning and ask for year-long transition British business chiefs have urged the European Union to push back the introduction of customs checks after Brexit after admitting most UK firms are not ready for the change .
The Confederation of British Industry ( CBI ) , which represents 190,000 businesses , is also asking Brussels to give UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new paperwork required from January 1 when the Brexit transition period expires .
A CBI spokesman said : “ With time so short , both sides need to take steps to minimise disruption no matter the outcome .
“ Without them , much of the progress made recovering from the pandemic will be lost.
” 11.45am update : Sturgeon humiliated : Shameless attempt to suck up to EU backfires as interviewer hits back Nicola Sturgeon 's desperate attempt to pander to the EU backfired during a roundtable interview with European journalists .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Europe , Ms Sturgeon declared Scotland would be “ coming home ” if the public declared their desire to re-join the bloc during a roundtable with journalists .
During the interview , German publication , Die Welt warned Ms Sturgeon enthusiasm for new entrants to the bloc is not high at the moment .
And Scotland 's performance in combating everything from coronavirus deaths to drug addiction was also panned .
Despite the EU expansion warning , Ms Sturgeon said : “ Scotland 's accession is not an enlargement .
We have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Scotland is coming home , this is not a new beginning .
We can act as a bridge between the UK and the EU , bringing people together.
” 10.51am update : Switzerland and the UK approve memorandum of understanding Today the Swiss government has approved a memorandum of understanding with Britain to strengthen cooperation over migration post-Brexit .
A statement read : `` Although not legally binding , the MoU underlines the close cooperation between the two countries in the field of migration and serves as a basis for future mutual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Swiss government 's Mind the Gap strategy , which is designed to preserve continuity in Swiss-UK relations beyond Brexit . ''
10am update : `` Just few hours left for deal to be struck '' More from Mr Barnier today as he briefed MEPs in the EU Parliament .
He added : `` We have very little time remaining , just a few hours , to work through these negotiations in useful fashion if we want this agreement to enter into force on January 1 .
`` There is a chance of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such an agreement is very narrow . ''
Speaking to the EU Parliament , Mr Barnier declared the two sides are now reaching a critical juncture in talks .
He said : `` We 're not asking more nor less than a balance between rights and obligations and reciprocity , access to our markets and access to our waters and the other way round , no more , no less .
`` It 's also obvious that this is n't an agreement we will sign at any price or any cost .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with you and open and sincere .
I can not say what will come during this last home straight of negotiations .
We have to be prepared for all eventualities . ''
With time running out to agree a deal , Schools Minister , Nick Gibb declared the UK will leave talks if the EU fails to compromise .
He told Sky News : “ It is a very serious situation .
`` We will test every route to seeking a free trade agreement with the European Union , but we can not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ national sovereignty . ''
In a joint statement , Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen said : `` The Prime Minister underlined that the negotiations were now in a serious situation .
`` Time was very short and it now looked very likely that agreement would not be reached unless the EU position changed substantially .
`` He said that we were making every effort to accommodate reasonable EU requests on the level playing field , but even though the gap had narrowed some fundamental areas remained difficult .
`` On fisheries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accept a situation where it was the only sovereign country in the world not to be able to control access to its own waters for an extended period and to be faced with fisheries quotas which hugely disadvantaged its own industry .
`` The EU ’ s position in this area was simply not reasonable and if there was to be an agreement it needed to shift significantly .
`` The Prime Minister repeated that little time was left .
He said that , if no agreement could be reached , the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with the UK trading with the EU on Australian-style terms . ''
The European Parliament has passed a declaration warning the bloc 's chief negotiator , he has 48 hours to bring a deal before Parliament .
If MEPs can not begin to scrutinise the text from Monday morning , they stated it will be impossible for it to be ratified before the end of the year .
They have also declared an emergency plenary meeting could be called at the end of the month to give provisional ratification to the text @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Euruopean People 's Party said : `` We owe it to the people and businesses in our constituencies who will be heavily affected by Brexit , to scrutinise the deal appropriately .
`` After Sunday we do n't believe this would still be possible . ''
This comes as the areas of divergence , state aid and fisheries , remain .
According to sources , the UK may back down on its demands over the fisheries and allow a seven-year transition period for fleets .
While any quota return has not been established @ @ @ @ @ @ @ access throughout the period , although Brussels had originally demanded a 10-year window .

Brexit: Expert says EU 'compensating' affected industries
MEPs passed a resolution this week stating any trade deal must be presented before Parliament before December 21. Amid the threat of a no deal Brexit, the EU Commission could continue negotiations with the UK beyond December 21 if there is significant movement on fisheries and state aid - overruling the deadline set by MEPs. Although MEPs could vote against a deal in 2021, member states could agree provisional approval of any trade deal before January 1 to stop a no deal Brexit. This blog is no longer live, follow here for the latest updates.
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One diplomat told The Daily Telegraph: "The treaty is clear. The Council can decide on provisional application without the European Parliament. “We will endeavour to keep them on board of course but if that’s the only way to an operational deal the member states will be looking to the treaty.” Following Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen's call on Thursday, officials stated substantial progress had been made but two points of difference remain. It is thought, state aid is yet to be resolved although there has been ground made on the wider umbrella of fair competition. In terms of fishing, however, the two sides still remain apart with sources indicating the EU has demanded an 8 year transition period over fisheries.
Brexit news: EU talks go to the wire
UK officials have so far denied the request but reports have stated the UK would allow a five to seven-year grace period to be able to agree a deal. This would allow EU fleets continued access to Britain's rich waters despite the UK having left the bloc on January 31. Downing Street said in a statement last night: "The Prime Minister underlined that the negotiations were now in a serious situation. "Time was very short and it now looked very likely that agreement would not be reached unless the EU position changed substantially.” If a deal were to be agreed in time, MEPs have declared they will hold an emergency plenary at the end of the month. Manfred Weber, chair of the Parliament's European People's Party said: "After Sunday we cannot reasonably scrutinise the deal before the end of the year. The agreement is too important to rush through Parliament. FOLLOW BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES:
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9.45pm update: Barnier blasted over EU's colossal failure as UK thrives outside bloc Brexit chief negotiator for the EU Michel Barnier was lambasted by Austrian MEP Harald Vilimsky over his "unfriendly" disposition towards Britain's decision to leave the bloc since 2016. Speaking to colleagues in the European Parliament on Friday, the Austrian MEP claimed most people in the EU have met the UK's decision to leave the bloc with resentfulness and a desire to punish a democratic will. Mr Vilimsky urged EU leaders to "respect" Britons and their decision to leave the Brussels institution as he highlighted a failure of the EU to keep up with Brexit Britain's successful response on the coronavirus vaccine.
Brexit: Decision ‘wasn’t met with friendship’ says Austrian MEP
9pm update: Barnier told to stand firm as Brexit fishing row explodes A leading French MEP refused to back down on Emmanuel Macron's hardline demands, as he ordered the EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier to double down on fishing despite a fast-approaching deadline. François-Xavier Bellamy has ordered Mr Barnier to stand firm against Britain's fishing demands. Mr Bellamy told the European Parliament this morning that fishing "will remain a priority down to the last minute". He added that French fishermen, who stand to lose out after the transition period, "know they can rely on Michel Barnier" to prioritise them in any agreement. Mr Bellamy chastised other MEPs for "replaying the Brexit debate" as he insisted that "lives were at stake" in the talks. 7.50pm update: Eurosceptic MEP issues rallying cry as he savages 'destructive' EU Brexit will only be the "beginning" unless the EU brings its house in order, warned Croatian MEP Ivan Vilibor Sini as he blasted Brussels' "destructive" policies. Addressing colleagues in the European Parliament on Friday, the Croatian MEP claimed Britons are not the only ones disappointed in the EU's organisation and disposal of funds across member states. He warned: "We should go back to the beginning: why did the UK want to leave the EU? They were disappointed with the way this organisation functions and they are not the only ones. "When it comes to Croatia, our citizens see how the funds from the EU are spent and they're also shocked and disappointed. "They're also disappointed when they see how the tenders are implemented in the case of EU funds. Let me mention projects for waste disposals. "In this proposal you have the old methods specifying exactly the equipment you need in order to narrow down the criteria for selection of the best tender. "There are other examples as well. Very often you have the principle of first come first serve without taking into account of the quality of the proposal. "Instead of becoming a tool for development, the funds have become a tool for destruction. "Unless the EU brings his home in order, Brexit will only be the beginning."
Brexit will only be the "beginning" unless the EU brings its house in order, warned Croatian MEP Ivan Vilibor Sini as he blasted Brussels' "destructive" policies
7.35pm update: Martin warns 'significant difficulties' remain in trade talks Irish premier Micheal Martin has warned "very significant difficulties" remain in trade talks between the UK and the EU. His comments came as leaders north and south of the Irish border discussed Brexit today at a virtual meeting of the North South Ministerial Council. The Taoiseach said: "If we get a substantive future relationship agreement between the UK and the EU that would make life much, much easier for all of us and particularly would give certainty and clarity to businesses and for workers north and south." Stormont First Minister Arlene Foster said: "We all agree that the best way forward is to have an agreement on the future relationship between the United Kingdom and the European Union. "I think that's very important. That is the one point of unanimity on Brexit I would say, but it's something that I think you can take as very clear." Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill added: "It's obvious to state that we obviously want to see a deal and I welcome the confirmation and clarity around the (Northern Ireland) protocol that's been achieved and hopefully that is positive mood music that leads us into an arrangement that finds a positive outcome, because I don't think anybody wants to see a no-deal scenario." Ireland's deputy premier Leo Varadkar said: "We're all agreed that a free trade agreement between the UK and EU is to our advantage and is in the interests of business and workers and farmers and fishermen north and south. "So we will be using any influence we have to try to secure that agreement over the next couple of days."
Irish premier Micheal Martin has warned "very significant difficulties" remain in trade talks between the UK and the EU
7pm update: Farage says 'I knew they would miss me!' Nigel Farage has said he knew the European Parliament would miss him after Dutch MEP Derk Jan Eppink said it was "boring" without him. The Brexit Party leader tweeted a clip of the MEP's speech and said: "I knew they would miss me!" In the video, Mr Jan Eppink said: "Since the British have left, the European Parliament has become more boring if I may say "And without Nigel Farage over there in the corner, rather quiet like a provincial assembly. "But Mr Farage has found other topics to play the naughty boy of Britain. "Without the British, the right to dissent seems to disappear from this Parliament unfortunately."
I knew they would miss me! pic.twitter.com/0ASR0kBZOm — Nigel Farage (@Nigel_Farage) December 18, 2020
6.20pm update: Farage hits out at Barnier’s fishing threat as he urges Boris to walk away Nigel Farage has urged Boris Johnson to finally walk away from post-Brexit trade talks after Michel Barnier demanded that Brussels must have the right to retaliate if the UK stops EU fishermen from accessing British waters. The Brexit Party leader took to Twitter to fume that the EU chief negotiator's demand "should be the deal breaker". He added: "After years of being allowed to take advantage of our fish stocks, Barnier now threatens us." Mr Farage's tweet comes after Mr Barnier called for fishing rights to be linked to trade in the deal between Britain and Brussels. The EU chief negotiator insisted it was "unacceptable" that the UK could block access to its waters but keep the benefits of a trade agreement with the bloc. Mr Barnier told the European Parliament: “The European Union also has to maintain its sovereign right to react or to compensate by adjusting the conditions for products, and especially fisheries products, to the Single Market. “And that is where we come up against one of the main hurdles of the negotiations at the moment - fisheries being part and parcel of the economic partnership."
Nigel Farage has urged Boris Johnson to finally walk away from post-Brexit trade talks after Michel Barnier demanded that Brussels must have the right to retaliate if the UK stops EU fishermen from accessing British waters
5.30pm update: Boris blows Barnier's latest fishing compromise out of the water British officials have rejected fresh proposals by the EU for post-Brexit fishing rights as the trade negotiations move into their final hours. EU Brexit chief Michel Barnier was said to be prepared to water down his demands for access to Britain’s coastal waters. But UK sources close to the talks insisted the plans were “nowhere near where they need to be”. 4.55pm update: Verhofstadt demands EU pick-and-chooses Brexit perks Guy Verhofstadt has pleaded with the EU to grant British students continued access to the Erasmus programme - an example of cherry-picking so often condemned by Brussels chiefs. The MEP addressed the European Parliament today where he urged the EU to allow UK students to continue using the student exchange programme, which was established by the bloc in 1987. Addressing MEPs today, Mr Verhofstadt said: “And then, last remark that I want to make is a request to Michel Barnier and to the negotiation team that is to do something on Erasmus. “I know the cherry-picking attitude from the Brits, which is in fact devastating for Erasmus. “But let’s take a unilateral measure towards the students in Britain that they can continue, unilaterally, to make use of Erasmus. “It’s a pro-European generation, this young generation, and it’s this generation who will bring back the UK inside the European family in the next decades.”
Guy Verhofstadt speaking in the European Parliament today
4.10pm update: Scallop wars! French MEP warns of 'dangerous' backlash in Channel if Royal Navy deployed The Government's threat to deploy Royal Navy vessels to police UK waters in the event of a no-deal outcome is a "dangerous idea" which could seriously damage bilateral relations between the UK and France, a French MEP has warned. Nicolas Bay, general secretary of the right-wing National Rally party led by Marine Le Pen, was speaking in response to plans to task four naval vessels to patrol the English Channel to prevent illegal fishing after the end of the year - which in theory could mean all foreign vessels being barred if no agreement is reached. With less than two weeks before the end of the transition period, uncertainty over post-Brexit access to UK waters still unresolved, and remains a key sticking point for both sides. The so-called Scallop War of 2018, saw British and French fishing vessels clash in the English Channel, and the deployment of naval ships, including HMS Severn, would be aimed at preventing any repetition. 3.30pm update: German minister hits out at Boris - 'UK can't eat all its own fish!' Britain will try to reach a Brexit deal on fishing rights because "they can't eat all of their fish by themselves", according to a German minister. Fishing remains the most stubborn obstacle in the "very narrow path" towards a trade agreement between the UK and European Union as last-ditch negotiations continue. German agriculture minister Julia Klöckner said it was essential for EU trawlers to maintain access to the UK coastal waters when the Brexit transition period expires in two weeks. But the minister said it was also in the UK's interests to strike a deal which gives its fishing industry access to the EU market where demand for the British catch was high. She said: "The British can’t eat all the fish they catch completely by themselves after all. "They do need around 450 million consumers of the European single market."
Britain will try to reach a Brexit deal on fishing rights because "they can't eat all of their fish by themselves", according to a German minister
1.55pm update: EU countries to overrule EU Parliament to stop no deal Member states may ignore the EU Parliament and give any deal provisional approval before the turn of the year. MEPs have set Sunday as the deadline for a deal to be agreed in order for it to then be ratified before the end of the transition. According to The Daily Telegraph, some MEPs have declared their own national government could step in to stop a no deal Brexit before the end of the year. As negotiations are led by the EU Commission, talks could take place past the Parliament's own deadline of December 21, although officials could allow MEPs provisional approval of any deal.
1.43pm update: Lorries told to expect Brexit disruption at Dover The chief executive of Dover, has told companies and lorry drivers to expect disruption following the end of the transition period. Doug Bannister said: "We are expecting that there will be some disruption but the one thing that the Port of Dover has is a proven track record of being able to clear disruption very effectively and get back to normal operations.” Asked if there was a no deal Brexit, he insisted there could be some challenges with French fishermen in EU ports. “You can imagine that if there’s a no deal or a bad deal, say, about fishing rights, then there could be some challenges with some French fishermen in the ports over on the French side - there could be disruption on the trains as well with burning tyres on the tracks and that kind of stuff."
Brexit news: Boris Johnson
12.32pm update: "Our door remains open for a deal" - Boris Johnson Speaking today, Mr Johnson stated the UK will continue to pursue a Brexit deal. Although time is running out, he insisted the "door is still open" for an agreement. Prime Minister said: “Obviously the UK’s position is always that we want to keeping talking if there’s any chance of a deal. “But we’ve also got to recognise that the UK’s got to be able to control its own laws, it’s what people voted for, and we’ve also got to be able to control our waters and fishing rights.” “Our door is open, we’ll keep talking but I have to say things are looking difficult. There’s a gap that needs to be bridged.” 11.58am update: Will it ever end? UK business chiefs issue Brexit warning and ask for year-long transition British business chiefs have urged the European Union to push back the introduction of customs checks after Brexit after admitting most UK firms are not ready for the change. The Confederation of British Industry (CBI), which represents 190,000 businesses, is also asking Brussels to give UK companies more time to comply with the new paperwork required from January 1 when the Brexit transition period expires. A CBI spokesman said: “With time so short, both sides need to take steps to minimise disruption no matter the outcome. “Without them, much of the progress made recovering from the pandemic will be lost.”
Brexit: Huhtasaari hits out at EU over 'impossible' talks with UK
11.45am update: Sturgeon humiliated: Shameless attempt to suck up to EU backfires as interviewer hits back Nicola Sturgeon's desperate attempt to pander to the EU backfired during a roundtable interview with European journalists. In an audacious attempt to build bridges with Europe, Ms Sturgeon declared Scotland would be “coming home” if the public declared their desire to re-join the bloc during a roundtable with journalists.
During the interview, German publication, Die Welt warned Ms Sturgeon enthusiasm for new entrants to the bloc is not high at the moment. And Scotland's performance in combating everything from coronavirus deaths to drug addiction was also panned. Despite the EU expansion warning, Ms Sturgeon said: “Scotland's accession is not an enlargement. We have been members for most of my life. “Scotland is coming home, this is not a new beginning. We can act as a bridge between the UK and the EU, bringing people together.” 10.51am update: Switzerland and the UK approve memorandum of understanding Today the Swiss government has approved a memorandum of understanding with Britain to strengthen cooperation over migration post-Brexit. A statement read: "Although not legally binding, the MoU underlines the close cooperation between the two countries in the field of migration and serves as a basis for future mutual support. "It forms part of the Swiss government's Mind the Gap strategy, which is designed to preserve continuity in Swiss-UK relations beyond Brexit."
Brexit timeline
10am update: "Just few hours left for deal to be struck" More from Mr Barnier today as he briefed MEPs in the EU Parliament. He added: "We have very little time remaining, just a few hours, to work through these negotiations in useful fashion if we want this agreement to enter into force on January 1. "There is a chance of getting an agreement but the path to such an agreement is very narrow." 8.59am update: Michel Barnier warns "narrow path" remains over Brexit deal Speaking to the EU Parliament, Mr Barnier declared the two sides are now reaching a critical juncture in talks. He said: "We're not asking more nor less than a balance between rights and obligations and reciprocity, access to our markets and access to our waters and the other way round, no more, no less. "It's also obvious that this isn't an agreement we will sign at any price or any cost. "I think I've always been frank with you and open and sincere. I cannot say what will come during this last home straight of negotiations. We have to be prepared for all eventualities."
Brexit live: Michel Barnier
8.31am update: We'll walk unless EU moves With time running out to agree a deal, Schools Minister, Nick Gibb declared the UK will leave talks if the EU fails to compromise. He told Sky News: “It is a very serious situation. "We will test every route to seeking a free trade agreement with the European Union, but we cannot do so at the expense of our national sovereignty." 7.41am update: Joint EU-Uk statement on talks In a joint statement, Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen said: "The Prime Minister underlined that the negotiations were now in a serious situation. "Time was very short and it now looked very likely that agreement would not be reached unless the EU position changed substantially. "He said that we were making every effort to accommodate reasonable EU requests on the level playing field, but even though the gap had narrowed some fundamental areas remained difficult. "On fisheries he stressed that the UK could not accept a situation where it was the only sovereign country in the world not to be able to control access to its own waters for an extended period and to be faced with fisheries quotas which hugely disadvantaged its own industry. "The EU’s position in this area was simply not reasonable and if there was to be an agreement it needed to shift significantly. "The Prime Minister repeated that little time was left. He said that, if no agreement could be reached, the UK and the EU would part as friends, with the UK trading with the EU on Australian-style terms."
Brexit endgame
EU fisheries zones


thedailyexpress--2020-12-19--‘Deal breaker!’ Farage hits out at Barnier’s Brexit threat as he urges Boris to walk away

The Brexit Party leader took to Twitter to fume that the EU chief negotiator 's demand `` should be the deal breaker '' .
He added : `` After years of being allowed to take advantage of our fish stocks , Barnier now threatens us . ''
Mr Farage 's tweet comes after Mr Barnier called for fishing rights to be linked to trade in the deal between Britain and Brussels .
The EU chief negotiator insisted it was `` unacceptable '' that the UK could block access to its waters but keep the benefits of a trade agreement with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ European Parliament : “ The European Union also has to maintain its sovereign right to react or to compensate by adjusting the conditions for products , and especially fisheries products , to the Single Market .
“ And that is where we come up against one of the main hurdles of the negotiations at the moment - fisheries being part and parcel of the economic partnership . ''
Fishing has proved one of the biggest obstacles to a post-Brexit trade deal , along with the so-called level playing field aimed at preventing unfair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two sides now stand at the `` moment of truth '' with a `` very narrow '' path to reaching a breakthrough .
He said : `` We have very little time remaining , just a few hours , to work through these negotiations in useful fashion if we want this agreement to enter into force on January 1 .
`` There is a chance of getting an agreement but the path to such an agreement is very narrow . ''
READ MORE : Nigel Farage highlights 'very bad sign for Brexit' Speaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Friday , Boris Johnson called for the EU to `` recognise the UK has got to be able to control its own laws - that 's what people voted for - and we have also got to be able to control our waters and fishing rights '' .
The Prime Minister added : `` No sensible government is going to agree to a treaty that does n't have those two basic things in it as well as everything else .
`` Our door is open , we 'll keep talking , but I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` There 's a gap that needs to be bridged , the UK has done a lot to try and help , and we hope that our EU friends will see sense and come to the table with something themselves , because that 's really where we are . ''
DO N'T MISS Brexit LIVE : Brussels MUTINY as EU leaders set to overrule Parliament [ LIVE BLOG ] 'Never , never , never ! '
Nigel Farage erupts at single market in ITV row [ VIDEO ] Nigel Farage pinpoints THREE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal [ INSIGHT ] He acknowledged there would be difficult days ahead in the short term if the transition period ends on December 31 without a deal in place .
Mr Johnson said : `` Yes , it may be difficult at first but this country will prosper mightily , as I 've said many , many times , on any terms and under any arrangement , and I think we 've just got to get through this period and look to all the opportunities that will open up to this country in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Prime Minister on Thursday , European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen admitted `` big differences '' remained between the two sides , adding that `` bridging them will be very challenging '' .
Mr Barnier 's UK counterpart Lord Forst on Thursday warned that progress `` seems blocked '' ahead of talks resuming in Brussels .

Brexit: Boris Johnson urges EU to ‘see sense’ on negotiations
The Brexit Party leader took to Twitter to fume that the EU chief negotiator's demand "should be the deal breaker". He added: "After years of being allowed to take advantage of our fish stocks, Barnier now threatens us."
Mr Farage's tweet comes after Mr Barnier called for fishing rights to be linked to trade in the deal between Britain and Brussels. The EU chief negotiator insisted it was "unacceptable" that the UK could block access to its waters but keep the benefits of a trade agreement with the bloc. Mr Barnier told the European Parliament: “The European Union also has to maintain its sovereign right to react or to compensate by adjusting the conditions for products, and especially fisheries products, to the Single Market. “And that is where we come up against one of the main hurdles of the negotiations at the moment - fisheries being part and parcel of the economic partnership."
Nigel Farage has urged Boris Johnson to finally walk away from post-Brexit trade talks
Mr Farage's tweet comes after Mr Barnier called for fishing rights to be linked to trade in the deal between Britain and Brussels
Fishing has proved one of the biggest obstacles to a post-Brexit trade deal, along with the so-called level playing field aimed at preventing unfair competition. Mr Barnier added that the two sides now stand at the "moment of truth" with a "very narrow" path to reaching a breakthrough. He said: "We have very little time remaining, just a few hours, to work through these negotiations in useful fashion if we want this agreement to enter into force on January 1. "There is a chance of getting an agreement but the path to such an agreement is very narrow." READ MORE: Nigel Farage highlights 'very bad sign for Brexit'
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Chief negotiators Lord Frost and Michel Barnier
Speaking during a visit to Greater Manchester on Friday, Boris Johnson called for the EU to "recognise the UK has got to be able to control its own laws - that's what people voted for - and we have also got to be able to control our waters and fishing rights". The Prime Minister added: "No sensible government is going to agree to a treaty that doesn't have those two basic things in it as well as everything else. "Our door is open, we'll keep talking, but I have to say things are looking difficult. "There's a gap that needs to be bridged, the UK has done a lot to try and help, and we hope that our EU friends will see sense and come to the table with something themselves, because that's really where we are." DON'T MISS
Brexit LIVE: Brussels MUTINY as EU leaders set to overrule Parliament [LIVE BLOG]
'Never, never, never!' Nigel Farage erupts at single market in ITV row [VIDEO]
Nigel Farage pinpoints THREE huge flaws in Boris Johnson's Brexit deal [INSIGHT]
This should be the deal breaker. After years of being allowed to take advantage of our fish stocks, Barnier now threatens us. https://t.co/xlGdQILmdh — Nigel Farage (@Nigel_Farage) December 18, 2020
He acknowledged there would be difficult days ahead in the short term if the transition period ends on December 31 without a deal in place. Mr Johnson said: "Yes, it may be difficult at first but this country will prosper mightily, as I've said many, many times, on any terms and under any arrangement, and I think we've just got to get through this period and look to all the opportunities that will open up to this country in 2021." After her call with the Prime Minister on Thursday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen admitted "big differences" remained between the two sides, adding that "bridging them will be very challenging". Mr Barnier's UK counterpart Lord Forst on Thursday warned that progress "seems blocked" ahead of talks resuming in Brussels.
Brexit endgame
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thedailyexpress--2020-12-19--'Nowhere near!' Boris Johnson blows Barnier's latest fishing compromise out of the water

EU Brexit chief Michel Barnier was said to be prepared to water down his demands for access to Britain ’ s coastal waters .
But UK sources close to the talks insisted the plans were “ nowhere near where they need to be ” .
In a private meeting with EU coastal states , Mr Barnier told envoys Brussels would lower its demand for European boats to maintain access to British fishing grounds for at least eight years .
The Frenchman said a seven-year transition period , during which the generous access enjoyed by EU trawlermen to UK waters would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proposed boosting the bloc ’ s previous offer to increase fishing quotas for British vessels in our waters .
Mr Barnier said between 22 and 23 percent of the value of fish caught in UK waters should be returned to Britain .
This would hand a £135 million boost to Britain ’ s fishing industry after the end of the transition .
But British officials said the improved offer was still not enough to end the deadlock in the Brexit trade talks .
One source said : “ Their prospers are nowhere near @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They need to drop that phase-in period down seriously.
” Mr Barnier also faced stiff opposition from hardline EU coastal states , led by France and Denmark , after he floated the proposals in order to gauge their mood for compromise .
An EU insider said the Paris ' envoy in the meeting was “ very vocal ” on the importance of maintaining near-parity access to Britain ’ s fishing grounds .
Negotiations continued on Friday in Brussels without a significant breakthrough between EU and UK officials .
UK Brexit envoy Lord Frost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Barnier at the European Commission ’ s Berlaymont headquarters .
Sources were downbeat on the prospect of significant progress ahead of Sunday ’ s deadline for a deal .
MUST READ : Scallop wars !
French MEP warns of 'dangerous ' backlash in Channel Mr Barnier told MEPs the talks had reached a “ moment of truth ” with both sides unable to end the impasse on the key sticking points – fishing rights and common standards .
The Frenchman said the row over access to Britain ’ s waters can still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ main hurdle ” in the “ very narrow ” path to an agreement after more than nine months of wrangling .
Mr Barnier said : “ The path to an agreement is very narrow at a time when decisions need to be taken .
That will also be a time for everyone to live up to their responsibilities.
” The EU ’ s Brexit chief signalled he was refusing to drop a demand that would allow Brussels to slap Britain with punitive tariffs if European trawlermen are largely locked out of our fishing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MISS Brexit bluff called : Boris Johnson made UK look 'weak ' over no deal [ ANALYSIS ] Boris Johnson 's trade adviser unveils brilliant solution deadlock [ INSIGHT ] France tells Barnier to stand firm as Brexit fishing row explodes [ VIDEO ] He insisted that any trade agreement must include a distinct link between Britain ’ s access to the single market and fishing opportunities in UK waters for EU vessels .
“ If following a critical period of adjustment that is deemed unnecessary , if the UK wants to cut @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , at any given time , then the EU also has to maintain its sovereign right react or to compensate by adjusting the conditions for products , and especially fisheries products , to the single market , ” Mr Barnier said .
He added : `` That 's where we come up against one of the main hurdles of the negotiations – fisheries being part and parcel of the economic partnership .
`` It would not be fair , not acceptable , if European fishermen were not allowed , following transitional rights , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the rest of the agreement , especially applying to companies from the UK , would remain stable in their rights . ''
With just hours left to clinch an agreement , the Frenchman blamed Britain for the increasing time press by trying to run down the clock to secure concessions from the EU .
He said : “ In June , they refused any form of extension to the transition , which was possible .
“ If they should leave with an agreement or without , it is nevertheless the British who decided @ @ @ @ @

Brexit: Boris Johnson urges EU to ‘see sense’ on negotiations
EU Brexit chief Michel Barnier was said to be prepared to water down his demands for access to Britain’s coastal waters. But UK sources close to the talks insisted the plans were “nowhere near where they need to be”. In a private meeting with EU coastal states, Mr Barnier told envoys Brussels would lower its demand for European boats to maintain access to British fishing grounds for at least eight years.
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The Frenchman said a seven-year transition period, during which the generous access enjoyed by EU trawlermen to UK waters would be gradually phased down. He also proposed boosting the bloc’s previous offer to increase fishing quotas for British vessels in our waters. Mr Barnier said between 22 and 23 percent of the value of fish caught in UK waters should be returned to Britain. This would hand a £135 million boost to Britain’s fishing industry after the end of the transition.
Michel Barnier's fishing compromise is blown out of the water by UK negotiators
But British officials said the improved offer was still not enough to end the deadlock in the Brexit trade talks. One source said: “Their prospers are nowhere near where they need to be. “They need to drop that phase-in period down seriously.” Mr Barnier also faced stiff opposition from hardline EU coastal states, led by France and Denmark, after he floated the proposals in order to gauge their mood for compromise.
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Michel Barnier is the EU's chief Brexit negotiator
An EU insider said the Paris' envoy in the meeting was “very vocal” on the importance of maintaining near-parity access to Britain’s fishing grounds. Negotiations continued on Friday in Brussels without a significant breakthrough between EU and UK officials. UK Brexit envoy Lord Frost held talks on Friday with EU counterpart Mr Barnier at the European Commission’s Berlaymont headquarters. Sources were downbeat on the prospect of significant progress ahead of Sunday’s deadline for a deal. MUST READ: Scallop wars! French MEP warns of 'dangerous' backlash in Channel
What needs to be done to secure a Brexit deal?
Mr Barnier told MEPs the talks had reached a “moment of truth” with both sides unable to end the impasse on the key sticking points – fishing rights and common standards. The Frenchman said the row over access to Britain’s waters can still collapse the talks and is the “main hurdle” in the “very narrow” path to an agreement after more than nine months of wrangling. Mr Barnier said: “The path to an agreement is very narrow at a time when decisions need to be taken. That will also be a time for everyone to live up to their responsibilities.” The EU’s Brexit chief signalled he was refusing to drop a demand that would allow Brussels to slap Britain with punitive tariffs if European trawlermen are largely locked out of our fishing grounds in the future. DON'T MISS
Brexit bluff called: Boris Johnson made UK look 'weak' over no deal [ANALYSIS]
Boris Johnson's trade adviser unveils brilliant solution deadlock [INSIGHT]
France tells Barnier to stand firm as Brexit fishing row explodes [VIDEO]
Brexit: No deal would be 'horrendous' warns Bourgeois


thedailyexpress--2020-12-18--'It's inconceivable' Andrew Neil dismantles SNP's case for independent Scotland in EU

Confronting former SNP finance spokesperson and chair of the Scottish Growth Commission Andrew Wilson for the Spectator TV , the BBC veteran dismantled Nicola Sturgeon 's ambition to join the EU whilst still using the British Sterling and having a central bank independent from the eurozone .
Mr Neil blasted : `` Hold on !
Are you saying that you could join the EU with Sterling ?
`` What possible evidence do you have for that ?
`` You 're using the currency of a country that is n't even in the EU , the EU has its own currency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that .
`` You would not have an independent central bank as defined by the EU and what it demands .
`` You would n't even have an independent monetary policy .
`` You would n't set your own interest rates .
`` It 's inconceivable that you would join with Sterling ! ''
READ MORE : Sturgeon plots keep to Scotland tied to EU The Scottish politician said : `` I do n't think any of those things are inconceivable in terms of membership , we would have our own central bank @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it would n't be setting interest rates or ordering the exchange rate . ''
But Andrew Neil promptly hit back : `` It would n't have the power to print money and it would n't be a lender of last resort because you 're not printing money .
`` And all of these are conditions for joining the EU , not just the eurozone .
`` They 're conditions for being in the EU ! ''
It comes as on Thursday , First Minister Nicola Sturgeon was forced to write an open letter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stay should complete a Settlement Scheme application by June 30 .
EU citizens who live in Scotland were urged to apply to a scheme so they can remain in the country .
The Scottish Government believes such citizens should not need to apply to protect their rights , however the UK Government has made it a requirement .
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said : `` My message to everyone from the EU who lives and works here remains this - Scotland is your home , you are our family , and we 'd @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with us .
`` We are drawing close to the end of the Brexit transition period , and the end of a year in which we have together faced the unprecedented challenge of the Covid-19 pandemic .
`` In these times of uncertainty and disruption , I would like to once again reassure EU citizens that Scotland values you for the contribution you make to our society , our culture and our economy .
`` While I do n't agree that you should have to go through an application process to secure rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do want to ensure that you are able to stay in Scotland .
DO N'T MISS : 'People want to see families ' Hancock slams SNP over demands [ VIDEO ] Nicola Sturgeon : Michel Barnier refused to back Scotland joining EU [ INSIGHT ] Nicola Sturgeon dubbed 'control freak ' as SNP accused of 'betrayal ' [ ANALYSIS ]

Brexit: SNP’s Nicola Sturgeon clashes with Andrew Neil in 2019
Confronting former SNP finance spokesperson and chair of the Scottish Growth Commission Andrew Wilson for the Spectator TV, the BBC veteran dismantled Nicola Sturgeon's ambition to join the EU whilst still using the British Sterling and having a central bank independent from the eurozone. Mr Neil blasted: "Hold on! Are you saying that you could join the EU with Sterling?
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"What possible evidence do you have for that? "You're using the currency of a country that isn't even in the EU, the EU has its own currency but you don't want to use that. "You would not have an independent central bank as defined by the EU and what it demands. "You wouldn't even have an independent monetary policy. "You wouldn't set your own interest rates. "It's inconceivable that you would join with Sterling!" READ MORE: Sturgeon plots keep to Scotland tied to EU
Andrew Neil dismantled the SNP's bid to rejoin the EU
SNP: Andrew Wilson claims Scotland could rejoin EU without having to join eurozone
The Scottish politician said: "I don't think any of those things are inconceivable in terms of membership, we would have our own central bank, it would be independent, but it wouldn't be setting interest rates or ordering the exchange rate." But Andrew Neil promptly hit back: "It wouldn't have the power to print money and it wouldn't be a lender of last resort because you're not printing money. "And all of these are conditions for joining the EU, not just the eurozone. "They're conditions for being in the EU!" It comes as on Thursday, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon was forced to write an open letter setting out that everyone who wishes to stay should complete a Settlement Scheme application by June 30. EU citizens who live in Scotland were urged to apply to a scheme so they can remain in the country.
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Jacob Rees-Mogg says Scotland ‘beginning to see through SNP’
The Scottish Government believes such citizens should not need to apply to protect their rights, however the UK Government has made it a requirement. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: "My message to everyone from the EU who lives and works here remains this - Scotland is your home, you are our family, and we'd be privileged if you would stay here with us. "We are drawing close to the end of the Brexit transition period, and the end of a year in which we have together faced the unprecedented challenge of the Covid-19 pandemic. "In these times of uncertainty and disruption, I would like to once again reassure EU citizens that Scotland values you for the contribution you make to our society, our culture and our economy. "While I don't agree that you should have to go through an application process to secure rights that you should automatically have, I do want to ensure that you are able to stay in Scotland. DON'T MISS:
'People want to see families' Hancock slams SNP over demands [VIDEO]
Nicola Sturgeon: Michel Barnier refused to back Scotland joining EU [INSIGHT]
Nicola Sturgeon dubbed 'control freak' as SNP accused of 'betrayal' [ANALYSIS]
Nicola Sturgeon urged EU citizens living in Scotland to apply for the settlement scheme


thedailyexpress--2020-12-18--Mayor Andy Burnham told to RESIGN after Manchester police force put into special measures

The Labour Mayor addressed reporters in Manchester after it was announced Mr Hopkins would stand down after the force was placed in special measures over its failure to record more than 80,000 crimes in the space of a year .
Mr Burnham , however , was met with calls to resign after a `` dreadful week for Greater Manchester Police '' .
Richard Stead of BBC Radio Manchester told him : `` It 's been a dreadful week for Greater Manchester Police , one in five crimes are being recorded , forces have been placed under special measures , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now the Chief Constable has fallen on his sword .
`` People in Manchester will be concerned , they 'll want to know why it is the Chief Constable that has gone and not you . ''
Mr Burnham replied : `` Because I do not run Greater Manchester Police .
The police operation is independent of politicians and rightly so . ''
A report by Her Majesty 's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services ( HMICFRS ) last week said it was `` deeply troubled '' by how cases handled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The watchdog also said the service from England 's second-largest police force to victims of crime was a `` serious cause of concern '' .
READ MORE : Coronavirus CHAOS : Care homes in Manchester urged not to use new tests On Friday , Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said : `` These are challenging times for Greater Manchester Police .
`` The force has a long-term strategic plan to address the issues raised by the HMIC and I believe this plan should be led by a chief constable who can oversee it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what is best for GMP and the communities we serve , and given my current ill health , I have decided to stand down from the post of chief constable with immediate effect . ''
Addressing the news , Andy Burnham told reporters : `` I have agreed with the chief constable , Ian Hopkins , that he will stand down with immediate effect from his duties of chief constable of Greater Manchester Police . ''
He said Mr Hopkins had led the force during `` one of the most difficult periods in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and `` complex threats '' such as the Manchester Arena terror attack .
He said : `` In other important areas , however , the organisation has not made the progress needed .
It is an important principle of policing in this country that it is operationally independent from political interference .
`` I do not run Greater Manchester Police on a day to day basis .
`` Instead , it is my job to hold the Chief Constable to account , and by extension the force for the services provided to our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ task has been made too difficult by an overly defensive culture within GMP .
This needs to change if GMP is to develop the open learning culture that will allow the failures identified by HMIC to be properly addressed .
`` Improvements are now overdue .
So both I and the deputy mayor , whilst paying tribute today to Ian 's 12 years of service to Greater Manchester Police have concluded that now is the time for new leadership , and a new era in our police force . ''
DO N'T MISS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Burnham as Manchester goes in Tier 3 [ VIDEO ] Andy Burnham rages at London being put first in coronavirus pandemic [ INSIGHT ] Boris slaps down Burnham after he held PM to RANSOM over lockdown [ REACTION ] Mr Burnham said : `` It 's really important for me to say that I have got huge regard , actually , for so many people working within the organisation and so much of what GMP does , it is outstanding in many areas , and the deputy mayor has said that before .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ what we can encounter is a kind of reluctance to come forward with issues when they emerge or bringing them forward late in the day or explaining them away .
`` And I think we will only have the police force that will be able to address these problems when there is a more open culture within GMP . ''
The mayor said he has been working with the force for 20 years , having previously been an MP .
He added : `` So , this is n't somebody making sort of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them .
I know their strengths , but I also know their weaknesses .
`` And when this evidence was presented last week and actually when I saw the way GMP responded , or did n't respond sufficiently , to the severity of what the HMIC , which that too pointed to a culture that is n't quite right .
That was when I was clear that it was time to act , time for new leadership , time for a new era in Greater Manchester Police . ''

Andy Burnham defends position amidst Manchester police crisis
The Labour Mayor addressed reporters in Manchester after it was announced Mr Hopkins would stand down after the force was placed in special measures over its failure to record more than 80,000 crimes in the space of a year. Mr Burnham, however, was met with calls to resign after a "dreadful week for Greater Manchester Police". Richard Stead of BBC Radio Manchester told him: "It's been a dreadful week for Greater Manchester Police, one in five crimes are being recorded, forces have been placed under special measures, the force computers crashed yet again, and now the Chief Constable has fallen on his sword.
Trending
"People in Manchester will be concerned, they'll want to know why it is the Chief Constable that has gone and not you." Mr Burnham replied: "Because I do not run Greater Manchester Police. The police operation is independent of politicians and rightly so." A report by Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) last week said it was "deeply troubled" by how cases handled by GMP were closed without proper investigation. The watchdog also said the service from England's second-largest police force to victims of crime was a "serious cause of concern". READ MORE: Coronavirus CHAOS: Care homes in Manchester urged not to use new tests
Andy Burnham adresses Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable's resignation
Andy Burnham said he has been working for the force for 20 years
On Friday, Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: "These are challenging times for Greater Manchester Police. "The force has a long-term strategic plan to address the issues raised by the HMIC and I believe this plan should be led by a chief constable who can oversee it from start to finish. "Considering what is best for GMP and the communities we serve, and given my current ill health, I have decided to stand down from the post of chief constable with immediate effect." Addressing the news, Andy Burnham told reporters: "I have agreed with the chief constable, Ian Hopkins, that he will stand down with immediate effect from his duties of chief constable of Greater Manchester Police." He said Mr Hopkins had led the force during "one of the most difficult periods in its history" dealing with budget cuts and "complex threats" such as the Manchester Arena terror attack.
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Andy Burnham slams government's 'divide and rule' tactics
He said: "In other important areas, however, the organisation has not made the progress needed. It is an important principle of policing in this country that it is operationally independent from political interference. "I do not run Greater Manchester Police on a day to day basis. "Instead, it is my job to hold the Chief Constable to account, and by extension the force for the services provided to our residents. "At times this essential task has been made too difficult by an overly defensive culture within GMP. This needs to change if GMP is to develop the open learning culture that will allow the failures identified by HMIC to be properly addressed. "Improvements are now overdue. So both I and the deputy mayor, whilst paying tribute today to Ian's 12 years of service to Greater Manchester Police have concluded that now is the time for new leadership, and a new era in our police force." DON'T MISS:
Hancock in thinly veiled swipe at Burnham as Manchester goes in Tier 3 [VIDEO]
Andy Burnham rages at London being put first in coronavirus pandemic [INSIGHT]
Boris slaps down Burnham after he held PM to RANSOM over lockdown [REACTION]


thedailyexpress--2020-12-18--So now cherry-picking is okay? Verhofstadt demands EU pick-and-chooses Brexit perks

Addressing MEPs today , Mr Verhofstadt said : “ And then , last remark that I want to make is a request to Michel Barnier and to the negotiation team that is to do something on Erasmus .
“ I know the cherry-picking attitude from the Brits , which is in fact devastating for Erasmus .
“ But let ’ s take a unilateral measure towards the students in Britain that they can continue , unilaterally , to make use of Erasmus .
“ It ’ s a pro-European generation , this young generation , and it ’ s this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inside the European family in the next decades.
” However , Mr Verhofstadt ’ s claims for the EU to “ cherry-pick ” a deal comes after the bloc rejected any pick-and-choosing from the UK , arguing it was not an option .
In 2016 , the EU ’ s chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier said cherry-picking was “ not an option ” .
He said : “ Being a member of the EU comes with rights and benefits .
“ Third countries can never have the same rights and benefits , since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ obligations .
“ The single market and its four freedoms are invisible - cherry-picking is not an option.
” In June this year , MEPs accused the UK of “ cherry-picking ” a deal and argued the UK demanding access to the single market after Brexit was “ unacceptable ” .
MEP Bernd Lange said : “ Now is the time of truth and the European Parliament stands united with the European Commission and the Council in rejecting the piecemeal approach by the UK Government to these negotiations leading to separate agreements .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ no surprise that the EP will reject a trade agreement that does not include robust guarantees for fair competition and fair trade.
” DO N'T MISS Ireland to ‘ recover quickly ’ from no deal Brexit despite dire forecast [ REVEAL ] EU is one breaking Brexit deal !
Redwood rages at Brussels [ COMMENT ] SNP MP 's Brexit trade deal warning shut down in brutal Commons row [ INSIGHT ] Kati Piri , Hungarian MEP , added : “ The UK ’ s expectation to keep the benefits of a member @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including a clear level playing field and governance provisions , is simply not realistic .
“ We respect this .
So should the United Kingdom.
” The UK formally left the EU back in January and negotiations have been ongoing since with neither side able to come to an agreement on the likes of fishing , governance and the so-called level playing field .
As the end of the transition period on December 31 looms closer , Prime Minister Boris Johnson said a trade deal with the EU looked very unlikely .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prime Minister spoke to Commission President Ursula von der Leyen this evening about the state of play in the UK-EU negotiations .
`` The Prime Minister underlined that the negotiations were now in a serious situation .
`` Time was very short and it now looked very likely that agreement would not be reached unless the EU position changed substantially .
`` He said that we were making every effort to accommodate reasonable EU requests on the level playing field , but even though the gap had narrowed some fundamental areas remained difficult @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the UK could not accept a situation where it was the only sovereign country in the world not to be able to control access to its own waters for an extended period and to be faced with fisheries quotas which hugely disadvantaged its own industry .
`` The EU 's position in this area was simply not reasonable and if there was to be an agreement it needed to shift significantly .
`` The Prime Minister repeated that little time was left .
He said that , if no agreement could be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would part as friends , with the UK trading with the EU on Australian-style terms .

Guy Verhofstadt: British students are ‘pro-European’
The MEP addressed the European Parliament today where he urged the EU to allow UK students to continue using the student exchange programme, which was established by the bloc in 1987.
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Addressing MEPs today, Mr Verhofstadt said: “And then, last remark that I want to make is a request to Michel Barnier and to the negotiation team that is to do something on Erasmus. “I know the cherry-picking attitude from the Brits, which is in fact devastating for Erasmus. “But let’s take a unilateral measure towards the students in Britain that they can continue, unilaterally, to make use of Erasmus. “It’s a pro-European generation, this young generation, and it’s this generation who will bring back the UK inside the European family in the next decades.”
Guy Verhofstadt demands EU picks Brexit perks
Boris Johnson held crucial talk with Von der Leyen
However, Mr Verhofstadt’s claims for the EU to “cherry-pick” a deal comes after the bloc rejected any pick-and-choosing from the UK, arguing it was not an option. In 2016, the EU’s chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier said cherry-picking was “not an option”. He said: “Being a member of the EU comes with rights and benefits. “Third countries can never have the same rights and benefits, since they are not subject to the same obligations. READ MORE: Boris Johnson's trade adviser unveils brilliant solution deadlock
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European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen
“The single market and its four freedoms are invisible - cherry-picking is not an option.” In June this year, MEPs accused the UK of “cherry-picking” a deal and argued the UK demanding access to the single market after Brexit was “unacceptable”. MEP Bernd Lange said: “Now is the time of truth and the European Parliament stands united with the European Commission and the Council in rejecting the piecemeal approach by the UK Government to these negotiations leading to separate agreements. “In this respect, it is no surprise that the EP will reject a trade agreement that does not include robust guarantees for fair competition and fair trade.” DON'T MISS
Ireland to ‘recover quickly’ from no deal Brexit despite dire forecast [REVEAL]
EU is one breaking Brexit deal! Redwood rages at Brussels [COMMENT]
SNP MP's Brexit trade deal warning shut down in brutal Commons row [INSIGHT]
Where a no deal Brexit would hit the hardest
Kati Piri, Hungarian MEP, added: “The UK’s expectation to keep the benefits of a member state without agreeing to any obligations, including a clear level playing field and governance provisions, is simply not realistic. “The UK made a conscious decision to leave the single market. “We respect this. So should the United Kingdom.” The UK formally left the EU back in January and negotiations have been ongoing since with neither side able to come to an agreement on the likes of fishing, governance and the so-called level playing field.
EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier
As the end of the transition period on December 31 looms closer, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said a trade deal with the EU looked very unlikely. A Downing Street spokesperson said: "The Prime Minister spoke to Commission President Ursula von der Leyen this evening about the state of play in the UK-EU negotiations. "The Prime Minister underlined that the negotiations were now in a serious situation. "Time was very short and it now looked very likely that agreement would not be reached unless the EU position changed substantially.
UK Brexit negotiator David Frost
"He said that we were making every effort to accommodate reasonable EU requests on the level playing field, but even though the gap had narrowed some fundamental areas remained difficult. "On fisheries, he stressed that the UK could not accept a situation where it was the only sovereign country in the world not to be able to control access to its own waters for an extended period and to be faced with fisheries quotas which hugely disadvantaged its own industry. "The EU's position in this area was simply not reasonable and if there was to be an agreement it needed to shift significantly. "The Prime Minister repeated that little time was left. He said that, if no agreement could be reached, the UK and the EU would part as friends, with the UK trading with the EU on Australian-style terms.
Brexit negotiations are ongoing


thedailyexpress--2020-12-18--Brexit POLL: Do you think the UK and EU will agree a trade deal?

Britain left the European Union on January 31 , with Boris Johnson delivering on his Conservative Party manifesto pledge to `` Get Brexit Done '' with an exit deal reflecting that Brexiteers voted for .
The two sides have been locked in post-Brexit trade talks since March in the hope of striking an agreement for the end of the transition period on December 31 .
But heated talks have frequently turned nasty , with repeated deadlines missed as negotiations blame each other for the constant deadlocks and demanding the other relaxes their stance on several red lines .
The EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ period beyond the end of this year for talks to continue , a request Downing Street has flatly rejected .
Do you think the transition period should be extended ?
The key stumbling blocks have continued to be fisheries and the EU 's level playing field and so far , the Prime Minister has refused to bow to EU demands on both .
The UK and EU are continuing to stand firm , and increasingly warning that a no-deal outcome is now the most likely scenario .
Mr Johnson has warned the prospect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is `` looking difficult '' , with Brussels ' chief negotiator Michel Barnier warning time is quickly running out in Brexit talks .
The Prime Minister repeated the onus is on the EU to see `` sense '' and offer a significant compromise , or the UK will leave the bloc at the end of the transition period without a deal .
READ MORE : Brexit bluff called - Boris Johnson made UK look 'weak ' over no deal Do you trust Boris Johnson to succesfully deliver the Brexit deal voters want ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreeing a trade deal with the EU is `` looking difficult '' , as Brussels ' chief negotiator Michel Barnier said there are `` just a few hours '' left in the Brexit talks .
He also reiterated `` no sensible Government '' could agree to a deal that does not give their country control of its laws and waters - the two major sticking points for Downing Street in negotiations .
Speaking during a visit to Greater Manchester , the Prime Minister said : `` Our door is open , we 'll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say things are looking difficult .
Ca n't see the poll below ?
Click here '' There 's a gap that needs to be bridged , the UK has done a lot to try and help and we hope that our EU friends will see sense and come to the table with something themselves , because that 's really where we are . ''
While Mr Johnson admitted a failure to agree a trade deal `` may be difficult at first '' , he has insisted Britain will `` prosper mightily '' and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opportunities that will open up to this country in 2021 '' .
Earlier on Friday , Mr Barnier told the European Parliament the two sides now stand at the `` moment of truth '' with a `` very narrow '' path to securing a breakthrough .
He said : `` We have very little time remaining , just a few hours , to work through these negotiations in useful fashion if we want this agreement to enter into force on January 1 .
DO N'T MISS France tells Barnier to stand firm as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ German minister hits out at Boris - 'UK ca n't eat all its own fish ! '
[ COMMENT ] Sturgeon humiliated : Shameless attempt to suck up to EU backfires [ INSIGHT ] '' There is a chance of getting an agreement but the path to such an agreement is very narrow . ''
The UK 's chief Brexit negotiator Lord Frost warned progress `` seems blocked '' ahead of talks resuming in Brussels .
He tweeted on Thursday : `` The situation in our talks with the EU is very serious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time is running out . ''
Who are you most concerned about in terms of a trade deal breaking down ?
Earlier this week , the EU set a deadline of Sunday night for an agreement to be ready so MEPs in the European Parliament have enough time to ratify any deal .
But EU member states , particularly France , which has been vocal over rights for its fishermen after Brexit , have threatened to veto any deal that does not meet their red lines .
And with EU putting incredible power @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Belgium 's Wallonia temporarily vetoing the EU/Canada trade deal after seven years of talks , the UK could yet face an unexpected challenge .

Brexit: Boris Johnson urges EU to ‘see sense’ on negotiations
Britain left the European Union on January 31, with Boris Johnson delivering on his Conservative Party manifesto pledge to "Get Brexit Done" with an exit deal reflecting that Brexiteers voted for. The two sides have been locked in post-Brexit trade talks since March in the hope of striking an agreement for the end of the transition period on December 31. But heated talks have frequently turned nasty, with repeated deadlines missed as negotiations blame each other for the constant deadlocks and demanding the other relaxes their stance on several red lines. The EU has demanded Mr Johnson extend the transition period beyond the end of this year for talks to continue, a request Downing Street has flatly rejected.
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Do you think the transition period should be extended? The key stumbling blocks have continued to be fisheries and the EU's level playing field and so far, the Prime Minister has refused to bow to EU demands on both. The UK and EU are continuing to stand firm, and increasingly warning that a no-deal outcome is now the most likely scenario. Mr Johnson has warned the prospect of a trade deal with the EU is "looking difficult", with Brussels' chief negotiator Michel Barnier warning time is quickly running out in Brexit talks. The Prime Minister repeated the onus is on the EU to see "sense" and offer a significant compromise, or the UK will leave the bloc at the end of the transition period without a deal. READ MORE: Brexit bluff called - Boris Johnson made UK look 'weak' over no deal
Do you trust Boris to deliver the EU exit Brexiteers you voted for?
Brexit news: Boris Johnson has not caved in to demands from the EU
Do you trust Boris Johnson to succesfully deliver the Brexit deal voters want? Mr Johnson has warned the prospect of agreeing a trade deal with the EU is "looking difficult", as Brussels' chief negotiator Michel Barnier said there are "just a few hours" left in the Brexit talks. He also reiterated "no sensible Government" could agree to a deal that does not give their country control of its laws and waters - the two major sticking points for Downing Street in negotiations. Speaking during a visit to Greater Manchester, the Prime Minister said: "Our door is open, we'll keep talking, but I have to say things are looking difficult. Can't see the poll below? Click here
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Brexit news: Ursula von der Leyen held further talks with Boris Johnson earlier this week
"There's a gap that needs to be bridged, the UK has done a lot to try and help and we hope that our EU friends will see sense and come to the table with something themselves, because that's really where we are." While Mr Johnson admitted a failure to agree a trade deal "may be difficult at first", he has insisted Britain will "prosper mightily" and the nation must look to the "opportunities that will open up to this country in 2021". On Friday, Mr Barnier told the European Parliament the two sides now stand at the "moment of truth" with a "very narrow" path to securing a breakthrough. He said: "We have very little time remaining, just a few hours, to work through these negotiations in useful fashion if we want this agreement to enter into force on January 1. DON'T MISS
France tells Barnier to stand firm as Brexit fishing row explodes [VIDEO]
German minister hits out at Boris - 'UK can't eat all its own fish!' [COMMENT]
Sturgeon humiliated: Shameless attempt to suck up to EU backfires [INSIGHT]
Brexit news: Michel Barnier said the two sides now stand at the 'moment of truth' with a 'very narrow' path to securing a breakthrough
Brexit news: Lord Frost warned progress 'seems blocked' ahead of talks resuming in Brussels
"There is a chance of getting an agreement but the path to such an agreement is very narrow." The UK's chief Brexit negotiator Lord Frost warned progress "seems blocked" ahead of talks resuming in Brussels. He tweeted on Thursday: "The situation in our talks with the EU is very serious tonight. "Progress seems blocked and time is running out."
Brexit news: The major events leading up to the UK's departure from the EU
Who are you most concerned about in terms of a trade deal breaking down? Earlier this week, the EU set a deadline of Sunday night for an agreement to be ready so MEPs in the European Parliament have enough time to ratify any deal, a deadline which was again missed. But EU member states, particularly France, which has been vocal over rights for its fishermen after Brexit, have threatened to veto any deal that does not meet their red lines. And with the EU putting power in the hands of regional parliaments, with Belgium's Wallonia temporarily vetoing the EU/Canada trade deal after seven years of talks, the UK could yet face an unexpected challenge.


thedailyexpress--2020-12-18--Britons furious at SNP plot to use fishing to ‘break up UK’: ‘Sturgeon’s carrot to EU’

The Scottish Government has stated it will keep close to the policy and engage actively with the EU over any future plans .
Despite the CFP crippling British fishing fleets since its inception in the 1970s , the Scottish Government launched its Future Fisheries Management Strategy .
Upon discovering Ms Sturgeon ’ s plans to keep alignment with the EU , Express.co.uk readers expressed their fury at her “ carrot ” to break up the Union .
One person commented : “ And so the Scottish waters which are British waters are the Sturgeon carrot to the EU in her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ This Sturgeon traitor does not speak for Scotland and has no right to be talking to the EU .
“ She should be removed from office and tomorrow would not be soon enough.
” A second said : “ The SNP have now reached new depths of insanity , they ’ re going to actively enforce EU policies that are detrimental to the livelihood of Scottish fishermen.
” A third said : “ The strategy she is following is so basic that anyone with an ounce of grey matter can see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not care about fishing or the Scottish fishermen/women .
“ All she sees is an opportunity to set up borders between England and Scotland .
“ She never missed an opportunity to create borders where there are none.
” JUST IN : Sturgeon 's health minister 'must go ' – faces no confidence motion A fourth said : “ British fishing which includes Scotland has been decimated by the EU .
“ Does she really think Scotland would be treated any better by the EU if they went alone.
” Within the new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be a framework to improve quota management processes .
There will also be a licensing regime to manage domestic foreign vessels fishing in Scotland ’ s waters .
DO N'T MISS Nicola Sturgeon SHAME over Scotland drug users 'let down by society ' [ Latest ] Sturgeon plots keep to Scotland tied to EU as fishermen to be force ... [ Update ] Boris urged to stand firm against 'Covid Grinches ' demanding shutdown [ Insight ] Although Scotland has published this plan , it is unclear how it will function with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the SNP is keen to maintain some alignment on fisheries with the EU , UK fishermen have been starkly impacted by the CFP .
Under the CFP , EU member states are given equal access to fishing zones across Europe ’ s exclusive economic zone .
Due to the rich fishing waters around the UK , British fishermen have insisted it has allowed EU fleets to exploit the waters .
Scotland ’ s pursuit of alignment with the EU comes as Ms Sturgeon declared her intent to return to the bloc next year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Ms Sturgeon stated Scotland “ would be coming home ” following a referendum vote next year .
The SNP has set out plans to hold a referendum next year if they win the Holyrood elections next May .

Nicola Sturgeon slammed by Ruth Davidson on rehab funding
The Scottish Government has stated it will keep close to the policy and engage actively with the EU over any future plans. Despite the CFP crippling British fishing fleets since its inception in the 1970s, the Scottish Government launched its Future Fisheries Management Strategy. Upon discovering Ms Sturgeon’s plans to keep alignment with the EU, Express.co.uk readers expressed their fury at her “carrot” to break up the Union.
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One person commented: “And so the Scottish waters which are British waters are the Sturgeon carrot to the EU in her quest to break up the United Kingdom. “This Sturgeon traitor does not speak for Scotland and has no right to be talking to the EU. “She should be removed from office and tomorrow would not be soon enough.” A second said: “The SNP have now reached new depths of insanity, they’re going to actively enforce EU policies that are detrimental to the livelihood of Scottish fishermen.”
Britons furious over Nicola Sturgeon's plans
Nicola Sturgeon: The SNP put forward a fisheries management plan
A third said: “The strategy she is following is so basic that anyone with an ounce of grey matter can see right through it. “She does not care about fishing or the Scottish fishermen/women. “All she sees is an opportunity to set up borders between England and Scotland. “She never missed an opportunity to create borders where there are none.” JUST IN: Sturgeon's health minister 'must go' – faces no confidence motion
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Brexit news: The SNP wants to return to the EU
Nicola Sturgeon: The EU Commission President
Nicola Sturgeon
Although Scotland has published this plan, it is unclear how it will function with the UK out of the EU. While the SNP is keen to maintain some alignment on fisheries with the EU, UK fishermen have been starkly impacted by the CFP. Under the CFP, EU member states are given equal access to fishing zones across Europe’s exclusive economic zone. Due to the rich fishing waters around the UK, British fishermen have insisted it has allowed EU fleets to exploit the waters.
EU fishery zones
Scotland’s pursuit of alignment with the EU comes as Ms Sturgeon declared her intent to return to the bloc next year. In an interview with European journalists, Ms Sturgeon stated Scotland “would be coming home” following a referendum vote next year. The SNP has set out plans to hold a referendum next year if they win the Holyrood elections next May.
Nicola Sturgeon: Fishermen have been decimated by the CFP


thedailyexpress--2020-12-19--What time is Boris Johnson speaking? Press conference with Prof Whitty to be held today

Boris Johnson has held an urgent conference call with his Cabinet today to discuss concern over a new strain of the Covid -19 virus .
On Monday , Health Secretary Matt Hancock revealed the mutated strain is believed to be a more transmissible variant of the virus and sparked the rise in infections in London and parts of the south-east of England .
The chief medical officer for England Professor Chris Whitty said the UK had now informed the World Health Organisation that it had concluded the mutant strain could spread more quickly .
He said : `` As announced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a new variant of Covid-19 through Public Health England 's genomic surveillance .
`` As a result of the rapid spread of the new variant , preliminary modelling data and rapidly rising incidence rates in the South East , the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group ( NERVTAG ) now consider that the new strain can spread more quickly .
`` We have alerted the World Health Organisation and are continuing to analyse the available data to improve our understanding .
`` There is no current evidence to suggest the new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that it affects vaccines and treatments although urgent work is under way to confirm this .
`` Given this latest development it is now more vital than ever that the public continue to take action in their area to reduce transmission . ''
READ MORE : COVID-19 lockdown rules are KILLING PM , says JUDY FINNIGAN

Boris Johnson has held an urgent conference call with his Cabinet today to discuss concern over a new strain of the Covid -19 virus. On Monday, Health Secretary Matt Hancock revealed the mutated strain is believed to be a more transmissible variant of the virus and sparked the rise in infections in London and parts of the south-east of England.
The chief medical officer for England Professor Chris Whitty said the UK had now informed the World Health Organisation that it had concluded the mutant strain could spread more quickly.
He said: "As announced on Monday, the UK has identified a new variant of Covid-19 through Public Health England's genomic surveillance.
"As a result of the rapid spread of the new variant, preliminary modelling data and rapidly rising incidence rates in the South East, the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group (NERVTAG) now consider that the new strain can spread more quickly.
"We have alerted the World Health Organisation and are continuing to analyse the available data to improve our understanding.
"There is no current evidence to suggest the new strain causes a higher mortality rate or that it affects vaccines and treatments although urgent work is under way to confirm this.
"Given this latest development it is now more vital than ever that the public continue to take action in their area to reduce transmission."
READ MORE: COVID-19 lockdown rules are KILLING PM, says JUDY FINNIGAN


thedailyexpress--2020-12-19--POLL: Should Royal Navy police UK waters under no deal Brexit? VOTE

The Prime Minister ’ s plan to send the 80-metre long vessels to inspect the UK ’ s Exclusive Economic Zone ( EEZ ) was ripped apart by Ireland ’ s Taoiseach Micheal Martin .
And in a no deal warning he said the proposal “ demonstrates the dangers of an acrimonious break-up ” between the European Union and its former member state .
If the UK and Brussels fail to agree a deal , two ships will be sent out on January 1 while two others will remain in ports on standby .
The Royal Navy will have the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carry out inspections .
Sailors will also have the authority to impound any trawler found illegally fishing in UK seas .
The threat drew comparisons with the infamous “ cod wars ” including the Third Cod War of the 1970s .
The series of disputes between Britain and Iceland over the rights to fish in the North Atlantic laid bare how seriously nations took their fishing rights .
The third war began after Iceland further extended its fishing limits to 200 nautical miles from its coast .
The UK Government refused to recognise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
READ MORE : Boris MUST hold out against EU over fish warns ANDREA HOSSO Mr Martin hit out at Britain ’ s plan to deploy the Navy to enforce fishing rules and protect the UK ’ s right of sovereignty over its waters .
He insisted that `` Britain needs Europe , and Europe needs Britain '' with just a fortnight to go until the Brexit transition period ends on December 31 .
On the UK ’ s threat to police its own waters , he said : `` All of that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ although , depending on how you read a particular situation , all nations have their fisheries protection capacity .
DO N'T MISS MEPs admit no deal Brexit would DESTROY European fishing towns [ INSIGHT ] Furious fishing row erupts as Barnier increases EU offer [ ANALYSIS ] EU admits fisheries deal could be reached as bloc panics [ REACTION ] '' Perhaps it demonstrates the dangers of an acrimonious break-up because dialogue matters more and we know from our history that dialogue is far better than conflict .
`` In my discussions with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out to him the interdependency of the fishing issue in terms of where they are found and where they end up .
`` The real end is New Year 's Eve but both sides are very possessed of the need to try and get outcomes to these negotiations in the next numbers of days.
” The Taoiseach said while he remains hopeful that Lord Frost and Michel Barnier can agree a deal , he does not want to downplay the “ very significant challenges ” which remain on the issues of the so-called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contentious topics remain the main stumbling blocks to a deal between London and Brussels .
Spain ’ s foreign minister Arancha Gonzalez was also critical of No10 ’ s plan to use Royal Navy boats to enforce fishing rules in the event of a hard Brexit .
She accused Mr Johnson ’ s Government of lacking seriousness with their threat .
She said : `` I think this is all for gallery , I do n't think this is serious - and by the way I do n't think this is needed .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ responsible is to sit down and agree what kind of relationship does the UK want with the European Union on fishing , again understanding that on this , like on the rest ( of the issues ) , there are things for the UK to win , things for the EU to win - we just have to find this middle point .
”

Brexit: Scottish Minister slams Royal Navy fisheries plans
The Prime Minister’s plan to send the 80-metre long vessels to inspect the UK’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) was ripped apart by Ireland’s Taoiseach Micheal Martin. And in a no deal warning he said the proposal “demonstrates the dangers of an acrimonious break-up” between the European Union and its former member state.
Trending
If the UK and Brussels fail to agree a deal, two ships will be sent out on January 1 while two others will remain in ports on standby. The Royal Navy will have the power to stop EU fishing boats and carry out inspections. Sailors will also have the authority to impound any trawler found illegally fishing in UK seas. The threat drew comparisons with the infamous “cod wars” including the Third Cod War of the 1970s.
Should Royal Navy police UK waters under no deal Brexit? Vote below
Irish Taoiseach Micheal Martin hit out at the Royal Navy plan
The series of disputes between Britain and Iceland over the rights to fish in the North Atlantic laid bare how seriously nations took their fishing rights. Each confrontation ended with Iceland winning. The third war began after Iceland further extended its fishing limits to 200 nautical miles from its coast. The UK Government refused to recognise the extra slice of the exclusion zone. READ MORE: Boris MUST hold out against EU over fish warns ANDREA HOSSO
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Mr Martin hit out at Britain’s plan to deploy the Navy to enforce fishing rules and protect the UK’s right of sovereignty over its waters. He insisted that "Britain needs Europe, and Europe needs Britain" with just a fortnight to go until the Brexit transition period ends on December 31. On the UK’s threat to police its own waters, he said: "All of that type of language isn't helpful, although, depending on how you read a particular situation, all nations have their fisheries protection capacity.
DON'T MISS
MEPs admit no deal Brexit would DESTROY European fishing towns [INSIGHT]
Furious fishing row erupts as Barnier increases EU offer [ANALYSIS]
EU admits fisheries deal could be reached as bloc panics [REACTION]
The Royal Navy will deploy two vessels in the event of a no-deal Brexit
A further two ships will be on standby
"Perhaps it demonstrates the dangers of an acrimonious break-up because dialogue matters more and we know from our history that dialogue is far better than conflict. "In my discussions with Boris Johnson, I have always pointed out to him the interdependency of the fishing issue in terms of where they are found and where they end up. "The real end is New Year's Eve but both sides are very possessed of the need to try and get outcomes to these negotiations in the next numbers of days.”
European fishing dependence on UK waters
The Taoiseach said while he remains hopeful that Lord Frost and Michel Barnier can agree a deal, he does not want to downplay the “very significant challenges” which remain on the issues of the so-called level playing field and fisheries. The contentious topics remain the main stumbling blocks to a deal between London and Brussels. Spain’s foreign minister Arancha Gonzalez was also critical of No10’s plan to use Royal Navy boats to enforce fishing rules in the event of a hard Brexit.
Spain’s foreign minister Arancha Gonzalez was highly critical of No10’s plan


thedailyexpress--2020-12-19--Brussels crisis: Fears of devastating EU exodus after MEP names bloc's 'Brexit suspects'

There are many contenders among member states to leave the bloc after the UK 's transition period with the EU ends , according to an Austrian MEP .
Othmar Karas told the European Parliament that there are several `` Brexit suspects amongst us '' who jeopardise the future of the bloc .
Mr Karas , who represents the European People 's Party grouping , also accused the UK of `` arrogance and duplicity '' during the Brexit talks .
The Austrian MEP explained : `` We must also learn the consequences from Brexit in the debate over the future of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Brexit in the way we deal with one another .
`` There are many Brexit suspects amongst us in Hungary and Poland and other member states .
`` Those who break shared laws and play off the interests of their citizens are not contributing to securing a common future . ''
JUST IN : Furious fishing row erupts as Barnier increases EU offer Mr Karas added : `` Withdrawals do not solve problems .
None of the Brexit promises can be delivered except for withdrawal and that is a defeat . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ We are are trying to defend the rights and values of the European Union .
`` We are defending the rights of the citizens , and we are working to ensure fairness .
That is the basis of the negogiations .
`` On the other side of the Channel , unfortunately , what has been asserted is a form of tactics made up of cherry-picking and arrogance and duplicity to their own citizens .
`` We are prepared to negotiate but also prepared for every situation .
That is why we are adopting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Also in the European Parliament on Friday , Belgian MEP Geert Bourgeois warned of the `` horrendous '' impact of a no deal Brexit on the EU economy , as he warned that more countries could leave the bloc .
Tensions between the EU and Hungary and Poland flared again on Thursday when the EU 's top court in three separate cases took issue with Hungary and Poland 's application of EU rules .
Nicola Sturgeon humiliated : Rees-Mogg exposes revolt against SNP [ VIDEO ] Furious fishing row erupts as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BBC Weather : Thunderstorms and hail to smash UK [ FORECAST ]

Brexit: Karas names ‘suspects’ who may follow UK out of EU
There are many contenders among member states to leave the bloc after the UK's transition period with the EU ends, according to an Austrian MEP. Othmar Karas told the European Parliament that there are several "Brexit suspects amongst us" who jeopardise the future of the bloc. Mr Karas, who represents the European People's Party grouping, also accused the UK of "arrogance and duplicity" during the Brexit talks.
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The Austrian MEP explained: "We must also learn the consequences from Brexit in the debate over the future of Europe "We must learn the lessons from Brexit in the way we deal with one another. "There are many Brexit suspects amongst us in Hungary and Poland and other member states. "Those who break shared laws and play off the interests of their citizens are not contributing to securing a common future." JUST IN: Furious fishing row erupts as Barnier increases EU offer
There are many contenders among member-states to leave the bloc
Tensions between the EU and Hungary and Poland flared again on Thursday
Mr Karas added: "Withdrawals do not solve problems. None of the Brexit promises can be delivered except for withdrawal and that is a defeat." On Brexit, he continued: "We are are trying to defend the rights and values of the European Union. "We are defending the rights of the citizens, and we are working to ensure fairness. That is the basis of the negogiations. "On the other side of the Channel, unfortunately, what has been asserted is a form of tactics made up of cherry-picking and arrogance and duplicity to their own citizens.
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Brexit: Peter Bone tells Michael Gove to 'stop talks' with the EU
Othmar Karas told the European Parliament that there are several 'Brexit suspects amongst us'
"We are prepared to negotiate but also prepared for every situation. That is why we are adopting contingency plans for a no deal scenario." Also in the European Parliament on Friday, Belgian MEP Geert Bourgeois warned of the "horrendous" impact of a no deal Brexit on the EU economy, as he warned that more countries could leave the bloc. Tensions between the EU and Hungary and Poland flared again on Thursday when the EU's top court in three separate cases took issue with Hungary and Poland's application of EU rules. DON'T MISS: Nicola Sturgeon humiliated: Rees-Mogg exposes revolt against SNP [VIDEO]
Furious fishing row erupts as Barnier increases EU offer [INSIGHT]
BBC Weather: Thunderstorms and hail to smash UK [FORECAST]
Hungary and Poland have been at odds with the rest of the EU member states for weeks