thedailyexpress--2020-01-31--EU POLL: Which country will join the UK and quit the EU next? VOTE HERE

Today marks Britain ’ s formal departure from the EU , after nearly four years of political wrangling .
As Brexiteers revel in the Brexit day celebrations , including Nigel Farage ’ s party in Parliament Square , Express.co.uk is asking its readers what country you think will be next to quit the EU ?
It comes after Tory MEP Daniel Hannan , an outspoken Brexiteer , named the three countries that he believes will soon follow Britain out of the EU .
He told Express.co.uk , Mr Hannan said : “ The question is not if Britain will rejoin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who is going to be the next to leave .
“ Who is going to be the first to join us and the other 170 odd countries outside the EU , trading with our neighbours but governing ourselves.
” The Tory explained there were two ways it could happen .
He said : “ It could happen accidentally because of some economic shock .
“ In that case , I think Italy would a candidate .
Or it could happen Brexit-style .
“ In other words a referendum .
Demand for a referendum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think I would probably at the moment put my money on the Netherlands .
JUST IN : Ridiculous EU laws Britain has been forced to accept from Brussels - EIGHT of the worst “ But I have to nod in the direction of Denmark , which is also having a similar debate.
” After it was decided Big Ben will not chime on Brexit day , due to rising costs , Boris Johnson said the occasion would instead by marked by a countdown clock .
The clock will count down from 10pm and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Street .
The street will also be illuminated with a light display designed to symbolise the “ strength and unity ” of the UK ’ s four nations .
DO N'T MISS : 'What a HERO ! '
Jeremy Vine caller passionately defends Nigel Farage [ VIDEO ] Brexit news : The SEVEN big changes which take effect from Brexit Day [ DEVELOPED ] 'This is the end of the EU ! '
Why Brexit could be fatal for Brussels [ INSIGHT ] The Prime Minister will also deliver a special address to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Earlier today the Treasury released a new commemorative 50p coin into circulation , to mark Britain ’ s departure from the EU .
The coin , which has today ’ s date engraved on one side , has been heavily criticised by Remainers , with many saying they plan to boycott using the new 50p .
Alistair Campbell , Tony Blair ’ s former chief political aide , said : “ I for one shall be asking shopkeepers for ‘ two 20p pieces and a 10 ’ if they offer me a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ‘ peace , prosperity and friendship with all nations ’ given it puts all three at risk .
”

Brexit: Richard Tice accuses EU of 'not following rules'
Today marks Britain’s formal departure from the EU, after nearly four years of political wrangling. As Brexiteers revel in the Brexit day celebrations, including Nigel Farage’s party in Parliament Square, Express.co.uk is asking its readers what country you think will be next to quit the EU? It comes after Tory MEP Daniel Hannan, an outspoken Brexiteer, named the three countries that he believes will soon follow Britain out of the EU. This poll has now closed. Click here to see the results.
Mr Hannan said: “The question is not if Britain will rejoin the EU. “The question is who is going to be the next to leave. “Who is going to be the first to join us and the other 170 odd countries outside the EU, trading with our neighbours but governing ourselves.” The Tory explained there were two ways it could happen.
Which country will be next to leave the EU?
Britain officially leaves the EU today
He said: “It could happen accidentally because of some economic shock. “In that case, I think Italy would a candidate. Or it could happen Brexit-style. “In other words a referendum. Demand for a referendum and a successful referendum. “I think I would probably at the moment put my money on the Netherlands. JUST IN: Ridiculous EU laws Britain has been forced to accept from Brussels - EIGHT of the worst Going to a Brexit party? Hosting one? Send us a pic and we'll publish a round-up of the best! Email images to dan.falvey@reachplc.com
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Politicians wept in the European Parliament on Wednesday over Brexit
Brexit Party MEPs waved Union Flag's in the European Parliament on Wednesday
The Prime Minister will also deliver a special address to the nation to mark the historic day. Earlier today the Treasury released a new commemorative 50p coin into circulation, to mark Britain’s departure from the EU. The coin, which has today’s date engraved on one side, has been heavily criticised by Remainers, with many saying they plan to boycott using the new 50p. Alastair Campbell, Tony Blair’s former chief political aide, said: “I for one shall be asking shopkeepers for ‘two 20p pieces and a 10’ if they offer me a 50p coin pretending that Brexit is about ‘peace, prosperity and friendship with all nations’ given it puts all three at risk.”
How many extra seats will each EU nation get after Brexit?
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thedailyexpress--2020-01-31--Brexit shock: Keir Starmer vows to bring back freedom of movement for EU citizens

Sir Keir Starmer , the current frontrunner in the Labour leadership campaign , has said he would “ make the @ @ @ @ @ ” if he replaces Jeremy Corbyn as leader .
While giving a Brexit Day speech @ @ @ @ @ shadow Brexit minister urged Leave and Remain voters to come together and gave a passionate @ @ @ @ @ He said : “ We have to make the case for freedom of movement .
@ @ @ @ @ will join the UK and quit the EU next ?
“ We need to give @ @ @ @ @ not tolerance .
And that starts with the right to vote .
“ We welcome @ @ @ @ @ scapegoat them .
“ We have to make the case for the benefits of migration @ @ @ @ @ movement .
“ I want people in this country to be able to work abroad @ @ @ @ @ vice versa ] .
” JUST IN : Ridiculous EU laws Britain has been forced @ @ @ @

Sir Keir Starmer, the current frontrunner in the Labour leadership campaign, has said he would “make the case for freedom of movement” if he replaces Jeremy Corbyn as leader. While giving a Brexit Day speech at Westminster Cathedral, the shadow Brexit minister urged Leave and Remain voters to come together and gave a passionate case for free movement. He said: “We have to make the case for freedom of movement.
EU POLL: Which country will join the UK and quit the EU next?
“We need to give our EU citizens rights, not tolerance. And that starts with the right to vote.
“We welcome migrants we don’t scapegoat them.
“We have to make the case for the benefits of migration, the benefits of free movement.
“I want people in this country to be able to work abroad, in Europe [and vice versa].”
JUST IN: Ridiculous EU laws Britain has been forced to accept from Brussels


thedailyexpress--2020-01-31--Raise a pint to Brexit! Wetherspoon pubs cut prices on 10 drinks to celebrate leaving EU

Wetherspoon boss Tim Martin has slashed the prices of a number of European drinks today , in order to mark the historic day .
He told Express.co.uk the move was a “ gesture of reconciliation ” as the promotion offers customers a discount of around 60p on 10 drinks that originate from Europe and the UK , including the Spanish beer Estrella Galicia and Jameson Irish Whiskey .
The chairman of the popular food and drink chain said he expects today will be busier than usual , as “ people will either be rejoicing or drowning their sorrows ” .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” promotion will run until February 29 in all of the company ’ s 870 pubs in Britain .
It offers customers discounts on beverages that originate from several EU countries including Germany , France , Spain , Poland , Holland Ireland .
Mr Martin has been a strong advocate for leaving the European Union and previously spent £94,856 on pro-Brexit beer mats .
Ahead of the promotion , Mr Martin said : “ Many of our customers are keen to celebrate Brexit .
“ At the same time we want to remain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a range of drinks at an excellent price .
“ In my opinion , there has been far too much political posturing in negotiations between the UK and the EU up until now .
“ The UK should aim to treat all countries of the world equally by eliminating current protectionist tariffs on nearly 13,000 non-EU imports , which cause every person , and most businesses in the UK , to pay artificially high prices for everyday goods , including rice , oranges , wine and children ’ s clothing and shoes .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ understand that tariffs and protectionism are counter-productive.
” JUST IN : EU CRISIS : Brussels panic as 'long list of countries ' could follow UK Mr Martin will be speaking at the Brexit rally in Parliament Square this afternoon , said he plans to celebrate Brexit “ with a pint ” .
He said he expects Britons across the country will raise a glass to Brexit today as people “ will either be rejoicing or drowning their sorrows ” .
The Wetherspoon boss said he was pleased Britain is finally leaving the EU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a lot of work to be done ” .
He said : “ I am relieved that the issue is resolved - I think most of the country will be too , including Remainers .
DO N'T MISS : Brexit Day LIVE : Britain FINALLY leaves… as EU admits biggest fear [ BLOG ] Nigel Farage hailed as the most influential figure behind EU exit [ POLL ] Brussels issues Brexit Day warning : ‘ No decision without consequences ' [ INSIGHT ]

Brexit: Farage says Johnson's deal is 'exactly' what he wanted
Wetherspoon boss Tim Martin has slashed the prices of a number of European drinks today, in order to mark the historic day. He told Express.co.uk the move was a “gesture of reconciliation” as the promotion offers customers a discount of around 60p on 10 drinks that originate from Europe and the UK, including the Spanish beer Estrella Galicia and Jameson Irish Whiskey. The chairman of the popular food and drink chain said he expects today will be busier than usual, as “people will either be rejoicing or drowning their sorrows”.
The “Let’s stay friends” promotion will run until February 29 in all of the company’s 870 pubs in Britain. It offers customers discounts on beverages that originate from several EU countries including Germany, France, Spain, Poland, Holland Ireland. Mr Martin has been a strong advocate for leaving the European Union and previously spent £94,856 on pro-Brexit beer mats. Ahead of the promotion, Mr Martin said: “Many of our customers are keen to celebrate Brexit.
Wetherspoons will sell cheaper drinks to mark Brexit day
Tim Martin said the promotion was a 'gesture of reconciliation'
“At the same time we want to remain friends with our European neighbours and offer a range of drinks at an excellent price. “In my opinion, there has been far too much political posturing in negotiations between the UK and the EU up until now. “The UK should aim to treat all countries of the world equally by eliminating current protectionist tariffs on nearly 13,000 non-EU imports, which cause every person, and most businesses in the UK, to pay artificially high prices for everyday goods, including rice, oranges, wine and children’s clothing and shoes. “The EU and UK need to understand that tariffs and protectionism are counter-productive.” JUST IN: EU CRISIS: Brussels panic as 'long list of countries' could follow UK
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Ann Widdecombe lead Brexit Party MEPs out of the European Parliament this morning
Mr Martin will be speaking at the Brexit rally in Parliament Square this afternoon, said he plans to celebrate Brexit “with a pint”. He said he expects Britons across the country will raise a glass to Brexit today as people “will either be rejoicing or drowning their sorrows”. The Wetherspoon boss said he was pleased Britain is finally leaving the EU today but said “there is still a lot of work to be done”. He said: “I am relieved that the issue is resolved - I think most of the country will be too, including Remainers. DON'T MISS:
Brexit Day LIVE: Britain FINALLY leaves… as EU admits biggest fear [BLOG]
Nigel Farage hailed as the most influential figure behind EU exit [POLL]
Brussels issues Brexit Day warning: ‘No decision without consequences' [INSIGHT]
Brexit in Daily Express front pages


thedailyexpress--2020-01-31--Brexit VICTORY: What happens now as Boris frees Britain of EU shackles? TIMELINE

The EU Withdrawal Bill has become law after sailing through the House of Commons and European Parliament with overwhelming majorities .
Now , more than three and a half years since the nation voted for Brexit and multiple delays , the UK will officially leave the EU at 1pm GMT on Friday , January 31 .
So what happens next ?
While the weekend ahead will largely be consumed with either celebrations or commiserations ( depending which side of the debate you ’ re on ) , there is still a lot of work to be done .
As of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will enter into a transition period , due to last until the end of the year .
While Boris Johnson ’ s Brexit deal sets out the skeleton for the kind of deal the UK and EU wish to have at the end of the year , a detailed deal on trade , immigration , rights and more still needs to be negotiated .
Here is a timeline and how things could play out : The UK will cease to be a member of the European Union .
However , a transition period @ @ @ @ @ @ @ current arrangements remain the same , though the UK will have no representatives in EU institutions .
British citizens will no longer also be EU citizens , though they can continue to travel as if they were .
Within weeks , trade talks will begin to work on the final deal .
The first priority will be to negotiate a trade deal with the EU .
The UK wants as much access as possible for its goods and services to the EU .
But the government has made clear that the UK must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and end the overall jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice .
Time is tight to hammer out what will need to be an incredibly robust agreement .
The EU could take weeks to agree a formal negotiating mandate - all the remaining 27 member states and the European Parliament have to be in agreement , meaning formal talks might only begin in March .
And it ’ s not just a trade deal that needs to be sorted out .
The UK must agree how it is going to co-operate with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as agree deals in a number of other areas where co-operation is needed .
DO N'T MISS : BBC Question Time audience roars with applause after Brexit speech [ VIDEO ] Iain Dale slams the European Union for 'failing the British people ' [ INTERVIEW ] Thank you , Europe !
Desperate Varadkar genuflects to Brussels chiefs [ INSIGHT ] This date will mark the deadline for the UK to request an extension to the transition period beyond the end of the year .
The Prime Minister has insisted this will not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ withdrawal agreement to prevent it .
However , some believe there may be a need to extend it to ensure a smooth transition .
Back to the familiar question : will there be a no deal Brexit ?
If there is no extension beyond the end of this year , this will be the deadline to have a deal agreed and ratified .
If it is , the beginning of 2021 will see the start of the UK ’ s new relationship with the EU and it ’ ll begin doing trade deals @ @

Brexit Day: Michael Gove says UK must accept 'all EU rules'
The EU Withdrawal Bill has become law after sailing through the House of Commons and European Parliament with overwhelming majorities. Now, more than three and a half years since the nation voted for Brexit and multiple delays, the UK will officially leave the EU at 1pm GMT on Friday, January 31.
So what happens next? While the weekend ahead will largely be consumed with either celebrations or commiserations (depending which side of the debate you’re on), there is still a lot of work to be done. As of 11.01pm on Friday night, the UK will enter into a transition period, due to last until the end of the year. While Boris Johnson’s Brexit deal sets out the skeleton for the kind of deal the UK and EU wish to have at the end of the year, a detailed deal on trade, immigration, rights and more still needs to be negotiated. READ MORE: Brexit Day LIVE: Britain FINALLY leaves… as EU admits biggest fear
Brexit timeline: Boris Johnson must negotiate the future of the UK
Brexit timeline: What next?
READ MORE Nicola Sturgeon will SKIP Brexit events - ‘Not thinking about reality' Here is a timeline and how things could play out: January 31, 2020 - Brexit Day and transition begins The UK will cease to be a member of the European Union. However, a transition period will begin which will see all the current arrangements remain the same, though the UK will have no representatives in EU institutions. British citizens will no longer also be EU citizens, though they can continue to travel as if they were. Within weeks, trade talks will begin to work on the final deal. The first priority will be to negotiate a trade deal with the EU. The UK wants as much access as possible for its goods and services to the EU.
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Brexit timeline: Brexit Party MEPs leaving the European Parliament for the final time
But the government has made clear that the UK must leave the customs union and single market and end the overall jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice. Time is tight to hammer out what will need to be an incredibly robust agreement. The EU could take weeks to agree a formal negotiating mandate - all the remaining 27 member states and the European Parliament have to be in agreement, meaning formal talks might only begin in March. And it’s not just a trade deal that needs to be sorted out. The UK must agree how it is going to co-operate with the EU on security and law enforcement as well as agree deals in a number of other areas where co-operation is needed. DON'T MISS:
BBC Question Time audience roars with applause after Brexit speech [VIDEO]
Iain Dale slams the European Union for 'failing the British people' [INTERVIEW]
Thank you, Europe! Desperate Varadkar genuflects to Brussels chiefs [INSIGHT]
READ MORE Nicola Sturgeon warns UK of Scottish independence referendum plot June 30, 2020 - Extension deadline This date will mark the deadline for the UK to request an extension to the transition period beyond the end of the year. The Prime Minister has insisted this will not happen and there is legislation in the withdrawal agreement to prevent it. However, some believe there may be a need to extend it to ensure a smooth transition.
Brexit timeline: Members of the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament react during a ceremony on UK MEP's final day
December 31, 2020 - Is there a deal? Back to the familiar question: will there be a no deal Brexit? If there is no extension beyond the end of this year, this will be the deadline to have a deal agreed and ratified. If it is, the beginning of 2021 will see the start of the UK’s new relationship with the EU and it’ll begin doing trade deals globally.
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-01-31--Nicola Sturgeon fury: SNP leader warns Johnson ‘Scotland will NOT be locked into UK’

And the Scottish First Minister promised to have a tete-a-tete with the Prime Minister over the issue going forward .
She told Italian newspaper La Repubblica : “ It ’ s not really about whether Boris Johnson wants to stop independence , not even about whether I want independence .
It ’ s about what people in Scotland want .
You can not lock a country into a Union forever against its will.
” Ms Sturgeon rejected the language of “ break-up and separation ” but predicted Scotland would gain its independence , thus splitting the Union .
She added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part of it no longer wants to be part of that union , then it can not be the case that forever it can be denied the right to choose .
“ Boris Johnson and I may have a bit of a locking of horns in a war of attrition , a political war of attrition yet to go .
“ But at the end of the day it ’ s what people in Scotland want that will determine this issue .
“ My job and the job of my party is to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ build that case and persuade a clear majority of people in Scotland that it is the right way forward for the country.
” Ms Sturgeon said all she wants to achieve is to allow Scotland to become an “ equal partner ” in relationships between England , Wales , Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland .
When asked if she feared the idea of a potential hard border between Scotland and England after a raging political debate concerning the Irish Border , Ms Sturgeon expressed her approval for the current situation .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ t want borders .
I don ’ t want any change to the border between England and Scotland .
READ MORE : Sturgeon misses ALL education targets as Ruth Davidson criticises SNP “ We ’ re not talking here about free movement of people across the UK ; the common travel area , which Europe accepts will continue to play with Ireland…nobody suggests that wouldn ’ t apply in Scotland if this was independent as well .
“ The idea that people wouldn ’ t go across the border just as freely as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ms Sturgeon refuted the idea of ensuring Scotland gains independence by any means necessary .
She pledged she would not conduct an illegal IndyRef2 , as it would not be “ recognised ” .
DO N'T MISS : George Galloway brilliantly outlines why Nicola Sturgeon has LOST [ INSIGHT ] Nicola Sturgeon savaged in fiery FMQs clash by Labour leader Leonard [ SHOCK ] How Scotland could suffer ‘ back-room coup from EU ’ [ ANALYSIS ] The First Minister added : “ I have spent all of my adult life campaigning for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the business of having an empty gesture process .
“ I want Scotland to become independent .
So that is the very clear position.
” Ms Sturgeon was recently criticised over her demands for a second referendum on Scottish independence .
Mr Johnson wrote to the First Minister in the new year , formally rejecting her bid for a second vote .
He said : “ Another independence referendum would continue the political stagnation that Scotland has seen for the last decade , with Scottish schools , hospitals and jobs again left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK .

IndyRef2: Sturgeon 'doesn't speak for Scotland' says Tory MP
And the Scottish First Minister promised to have a tete-a-tete with the Prime Minister over the issue going forward. She told Italian newspaper La Repubblica: “It’s not really about whether Boris Johnson wants to stop independence, not even about whether I want independence. It’s about what people in Scotland want. You cannot lock a country into a Union forever against its will.”
Ms Sturgeon rejected the language of “break-up and separation” but predicted Scotland would gain its independence, thus splitting the Union. She added: “If Scotland or any other part of it no longer wants to be part of that union, then it can not be the case that forever it can be denied the right to choose. “Boris Johnson and I may have a bit of a locking of horns in a war of attrition, a political war of attrition yet to go. “But at the end of the day it’s what people in Scotland want that will determine this issue.
Ms Sturgeon has reiterated her desire for Scottish independence
Ms Sturgeon spoke of a 'war of atrition' with Boris Johnson
“My job and the job of my party is to continue to win support for independence, build that case and persuade a clear majority of people in Scotland that it is the right way forward for the country.” Ms Sturgeon said all she wants to achieve is to allow Scotland to become an “equal partner” in relationships between England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. When asked if she feared the idea of a potential hard border between Scotland and England after a raging political debate concerning the Irish Border, Ms Sturgeon expressed her approval for the current situation. She said: “I don’t want borders. I don’t want any change to the border between England and Scotland. READ MORE: Sturgeon misses ALL education targets as Ruth Davidson criticises SNP
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Ms Sturgeon says the Scottish independence question is about what Scotland wants most of all
“We’re not talking here about free movement of people across the UK; the common travel area, which Europe accepts will continue to play with Ireland…nobody suggests that wouldn’t apply in Scotland if this was independent as well. “The idea that people wouldn’t go across the border just as freely as they do now is ridiculous.” But Ms Sturgeon refuted the idea of ensuring Scotland gains independence by any means necessary. She pledged she would not conduct an illegal IndyRef2, as it would not be “recognised”. DON'T MISS:
George Galloway brilliantly outlines why Nicola Sturgeon has LOST [INSIGHT]
Nicola Sturgeon savaged in fiery FMQs clash by Labour leader Leonard [SHOCK]
How Scotland could suffer ‘back-room coup from EU’ [ANALYSIS]
Ms Sturgeon predicts Scottish independence will happen
The SNP is based on a platform of Scottish independence
The First Minister added: “I have spent all of my adult life campaigning for Scottish independence and I’m not in the business of having an empty gesture process. “I want Scotland to become independent. So that is the very clear position.” Ms Sturgeon was recently criticised over her demands for a second referendum on Scottish independence.
A poll on Scottish independence
Mr Johnson wrote to the First Minister in the new year, formally rejecting her bid for a second vote. He said: “Another independence referendum would continue the political stagnation that Scotland has seen for the last decade, with Scottish schools, hospitals and jobs again left behind because of a campaign to separate the UK.
Scotland will continue to fly the EU flag in Holyrood
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-02-03--Enough bullying Barnier! EU can't boss Britain around any longer, says PAUL BALDWIN

So , a bloke next to me sparked up a fag – something I 'd not seen since 2007 when smoking in pubs was banned in Britain .
But no-one batted an eyelid .
Of course they did n't , because this was Spain and frankly no faceless pen-pusher , whether in Madrid or Brussels , was going to tell this fella what he could or could not do in his own local pub .
Of course it could have been a one-off and I could have just come across the sole crotchety old Spaniard sticking two fingers up to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ live his life , but it did n't feel like it .
It felt like a real-life example of the difference between the Brits and the Europeans – we are sticklers , to the point of shooting ourselves in the foot , for rules .
When was last time you saw anyone spark up a fag in a British pub ?
Quite .
We love rules even more than we love queues .
And we really , really love queues .
DO N'T MISS : EU collapse : ‘ Internal splits ’ grow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] Boris Johnson warned EU trade talks to continue past 2020 [ VIDEO ] Pound to euro exchange rate : GBP sees minor growth following Brexit [ ANALYSIS ] Which brings me to Michel Barnier .
The annoyingly self-righteous French Brexit negotiator has launched an opening salvo in the crucial Anglo-EU trade talks , which start today , all but accusing Britain of being about to throw every commercial and workplace rule and regulation drawn up in the last 100 years out of the window .
His insinuation is that without the morally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we will start making teddy bears out of asbestos and ship them to Europe while sending our children up chimneys and reintroducing match girls .
It is as insulting , as it it wrong , as it is barmy .
But this is n't really about trade or employment laws ( Britain has long had fairer employment deals than those mandated by the EU anyway ) it 's about Brussels still thinking they can boss Britain around .
It 's about Barnier being hell bent on cracking the whip from across the Channel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to cow us to fall in line with their rules .
He 's hiding behind accusations British standards will not measure up to European ones ( though as a VW diesel driver who was recently told my car was chucking out all manner of filth I do n't know how they have the front ) but it 's really about power and control , and trying their damnedest to see that Brexit fails .
Because the entire EU project hinges on it .
Ursula von der Leyen today admitted a United States of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the same time she admitted cracks were showing in the bloc because the poorer states - who have got used to EU being their cashcow - were refusing to accept cuts to those handouts to take account of the £10billion a year their budget was short because of the UK 's leaving .
If Britain thrives – and against ALL the predictions of the timorous nay-sayers Britain is thriving – then the EU will collapse .
First it will start fraying at the edges as one-by-one the bigger contributors realise they are no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fund political ambition .
Then , as Britain 's economy grows , people in struggling Germany and Italy and France will start to wonder why they are paying to prop up ailing states barely even part of Europe , rather than allowing them to stand on their own two feet .
And as the UK sees an unprecedented employment boom the first big country ( my money is on Italy ) will leave .
Oh , and do n't rule out the euro collapsing either .
At this point it will be game @ @ @ @ @ @ @ started as a great , and even beautiful political and commercial idea will have ended as a corrupted , bloated , arrogant and wholly undemocratic cesspit of political ambition .
The stakes are that high .
And Barnier is right to be scared .

Brexit: EU to offer ’ambitious trade deal’ says Michel Barnier
So, a bloke next to me sparked up a fag – something I'd not seen since 2007 when smoking in pubs was banned in Britain. But no-one batted an eyelid. Of course they didn't, because this was Spain and frankly no faceless pen-pusher, whether in Madrid or Brussels, was going to tell this fella what he could or could not do in his own local pub.
Of course it could have been a one-off and I could have just come across the sole crotchety old Spaniard sticking two fingers up to those who would tell him how to live his life, but it didn't feel like it. It felt like a real-life example of the difference between the Brits and the Europeans – we are sticklers, to the point of shooting ourselves in the foot, for rules. When was last time you saw anyone spark up a fag in a British pub? Quite. We love rules even more than we love queues. And we really, really love queues. DON'T MISS:
EU collapse: ‘Internal splits’ grow as political expert issues warning [INSIGHT]
Boris Johnson warned EU trade talks to continue past 2020 [VIDEO]
Pound to euro exchange rate: GBP sees minor growth following Brexit [ANALYSIS]
It's over Barnier! You're not in charge anymore
Flag Day: Britain's economy set to fare better than EU counterparts
Which brings me to Michel Barnier. The annoyingly self-righteous French Brexit negotiator has launched an opening salvo in the crucial Anglo-EU trade talks, which start today, all but accusing Britain of being about to throw every commercial and workplace rule and regulation drawn up in the last 100 years out of the window. His insinuation is that without the morally superior burghers of Brussels to guide us we will start making teddy bears out of asbestos and ship them to Europe while sending our children up chimneys and reintroducing match girls. It is as insulting, as it it wrong, as it is barmy. But this isn't really about trade or employment laws (Britain has long had fairer employment deals than those mandated by the EU anyway) it's about Brussels still thinking they can boss Britain around. It's about Barnier being hell bent on cracking the whip from across the Channel. He wants to scare us, to cow us to fall in line with their rules. He's hiding behind accusations British standards will not measure up to European ones (though as a VW diesel driver who was recently told my car was chucking out all manner of filth I don't know how they have the front) but it's really about power and control, and trying their damnedest to see that Brexit fails. We have to fail you see. Because the entire EU project hinges on it. Ursula von der Leyen today admitted a United States of Europe was her goal. But at the same time she admitted cracks were showing in the bloc because the poorer states - who have got used to EU being their cashcow - were refusing to accept cuts to those handouts to take account of the £10billion a year their budget was short because of the UK's leaving.
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-03--Finally some adults in the room! German MP vows to ‘write new chapter’ with Brexit Britain

The call for an international agreement comes as a result of fears cross-country relations could sour in the coming months , as Britain forges ahead with a series of trade deals .
Tom Tugendhat , the Tory chairman of the Commons foreign affairs select committee , and Norbert Rottgen , the Christian Democratic Union chairman of the Bundestag committee on foreign affairs , made the suggestion in the hopes of strengthening Anglo-German relations .
The friendship pact could see joint foreign and security policy goals and school exchanges .
Mr Tugendhat and Dr Rottgen wrote : “ We think it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Treaty , which regulates enhanced cooperation and strengthens our shared values ; cultural and education policy ; and yes , our foreign affairs .
“ A treaty would complement whatever the UK agreed with the 27 member states and deepen our bonds.
” The political pair described such a treaty as the “ first draft of the next chapter we will write together ” .
Whilst the politicians , writing in The Times , acknowledged “ different perspectives on Brexit ” , they said they were keen to “ move on ” from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a treaty seems to have , at its heart , bilateralisation , the idea of frequent exchanges between the two countries to ensure they are on the same page .
They added : “ Germany and the United Kingdom have shared interests overseas .
“ Our two countries stood together on every major international issue , from global trade to the Iran nuclear deal .
“ We both recognise that we share a continent , values , making our security indivisible .
“ Geography and geopolitics is not changed by Brexit.
” READ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say no deal ‘ still on the table' Dr Rottgen and Mr Tugehdhat also pointed out Britain ’ s diminished diplomatic presence in Brussels , but asserted the friendship pact would allow Britain to “ change the tone ” .
This , they state , could be done through increasing embassy staff , and ramping up international cultural programmes .
The issue of increasing racism was also addressed by the political counterparts .
Whilst they argued Germany and the UK were “ some of the most tolerant and open societies in the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ needed to be done .
DO N'T MISS : Too late now !
Germans sad as near 70 percent of voters ‘ regret ' Brexit [ POLL ] Angela Merkel news : Germany faces hike in EU contributions post-Brexit [ REVEALED ] Angela Merkel making secret plans to quit - 'She is ready to leave ' [ SHOCK ] They said : “ We should launch a joint , high-profile project that fights intolerance and promotes solidarity .
“ For different reasons , taking a strong stance against anti-semitism has particular importance for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is central to our historical responsibility for the horrors of the Second World War .
“ To Britons forcefully condemning antisemitism , it is a recognition of the proud history the UK has of providing refuge to Jews fleeing from persecution and genocide in Nazi Germany.
” However , the views of Mr Tugendhat and Dr Rottgen do not appear to be backed by their respective governments at present , and the pair do not speak for their countries .
Mr Tugendhat has lobbied for more powers to be given to the Foreign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some elements of Chancellor Angela Merkel ’ s foreign policy .
Germany is frequently viewed as an EU superpower , with significant influence within the bloc .

Brexit: Britain will be a 'competitor' says Angela Merkel
The call for an international agreement comes as a result of fears cross-country relations could sour in the coming months, as Britain forges ahead with a series of trade deals. Tom Tugendhat, the Tory chairman of the Commons foreign affairs select committee, and Norbert Rottgen, the Christian Democratic Union chairman of the Bundestag committee on foreign affairs, made the suggestion in the hopes of strengthening Anglo-German relations. The friendship pact could see joint foreign and security policy goals and school exchanges.
Mr Tugendhat and Dr Rottgen wrote: “We think it’s time for a German-British Friendship Treaty, which regulates enhanced cooperation and strengthens our shared values; cultural and education policy; and yes, our foreign affairs. “A treaty would complement whatever the UK agreed with the 27 member states and deepen our bonds.” The political pair described such a treaty as the “first draft of the next chapter we will write together”. Whilst the politicians, writing in The Times, acknowledged “different perspectives on Brexit”, they said they were keen to “move on” from the issue.
The politicians have suggested a pact between Germany and the UK post-Brexit
It will be the responsibility of PM Boris Johnson to negotiate trade deals going forward
The essence of such a treaty seems to have, at its heart, bilateralisation, the idea of frequent exchanges between the two countries to ensure they are on the same page. They added: “Germany and the United Kingdom have shared interests overseas. “Our two countries stood together on every major international issue, from global trade to the Iran nuclear deal. “We both recognise that we share a continent, values, making our security indivisible. “Geography and geopolitics is not changed by Brexit.” READ MORE: German panic as industry chiefs say no deal ‘still on the table'
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Tom Tugendhat is the British MP who penned the opinion piece alongside his colleague
Dr Rottgen, a German politician, also wrote the opinion piece
A pact could see significant collaboration between the countries
They said: “We should launch a joint, high-profile project that fights intolerance and promotes solidarity. “For different reasons, taking a strong stance against anti-semitism has particular importance for both societies. “To Germans it is central to our historical responsibility for the horrors of the Second World War.
The number of people from the UK looking to acquire German citizenship has soared
“To Britons forcefully condemning antisemitism, it is a recognition of the proud history the UK has of providing refuge to Jews fleeing from persecution and genocide in Nazi Germany.” However, the views of Mr Tugendhat and Dr Rottgen do not appear to be backed by their respective governments at present, and the pair do not speak for their countries. Mr Tugendhat has lobbied for more powers to be given to the Foreign Office, and Dr Rottgen has opposed some elements of Chancellor Angela Merkel’s foreign policy. Germany is frequently viewed as an EU superpower, with significant influence within the bloc.
It is not yet clear whether respective governments will agree on this kind of pact
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-02-03--Boris Johnson ruins Remain argument as he names SIX key areas UK is way ahead of EU

The Prime Minister attacked those that would suggest that if not for EU intervention , the UK would be a less liberal and less enlightened country .
He rattled off a list of six areas where the UK had instigated important regulatory changes only for the European Union to follow suit , and sometimes much later .
The six areas were the UK has lead and the EU has followed are in the minimum wage , paternity leave , maternity leave , animal welfare , carbon neutral by 2050 and flexible working hours .
He extolled how the EU had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s of paternity leave , while “ we in the UK guaranteed two week ’ s of paternity leave two decades ago ” .
The Prime Minister listed the areas in which the UK had paved the way and the EU had followed in its wake .
He said : “ The EU only gives employees the rights to request flexible working hours only if those are parents or carers .
He added : “ Whilst the UK provides that right to every employee with more than six months service , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reason.
” Mr Johnson added that the “ EU provides 14 weeks of paid maternity leave , whilst Britain ups this to a whole year of paid parental leave , with the opportunity to share this between parents.
” He went on to point out how , “ the UK has a higher minimum wage than all but three EU states , and in fact , six EU states do not have a minimum wage at all ” .
The Prime Minister went on to focus on animal welfare .
The UK is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK banned the shipment of veal crates 16 years before the EU ” .
JUST IN : Le cheek !
EU wants Britain to pay ANOTHER £1BILLION because our economy is booming !
He added : “ We are protecting elephants by having one of the strictest ivory bans in the world , while the EU is still going through the consultation process on this.
” Speaking of global warming , which he referred to as “ the great environmental issue of our time ” , saying that the UK was the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our own shoulders a legal obligation to be carbon neutral by 2050 .
He said : “ We have cut carbon emissions by twice the EU average since 1990 ” .
Mr Johnson spoke of how the UK will maintain higher standards in the areas of food safety , worker ’ s rights , commercial regulations and the environment , and “ sometimes better indeed than the EU.
” ‘ You ’ ll be back ’ : Verhofstadt ’ s parting shot hours after Brexit [ INSIGHT ] 'Britain in the EU is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ - Britons rejoice [ COMMENT ] European Commission bills Britain one billion on EU exit day [ DEVELOPED ] But , without the compulsion of a “ level playing field ” treaty were the UK must match the EU ’ s rules and regulations .
There is no need for a free trade deal to include Britain accepting EU regulations , “ any more than the UK should be required to accept UK rules ” .
He said : “ We have so often been told that we must choose either full @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its rules and courts , like the Norway model ” .
“ But we want a free trade agreement that avoids all the EU regulations , like the Canada deal .
“ We want to have a free trade deal with Europe comparable to Canada ’ s. ” Mr Johnson said : “ Are we going to insist that the EU does everything that we do as the price of free trade , of course not .
“ Does that mean we will refuse a zero-tariff deal with the EU , unless it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the way , no we will not.
” He attacked those who suggest that Britain was saved from “ Dickensian squalor only by enlightened EU regulation ” .

Brexit: UK 'won’t undermine EU standards’ says Boris Johnson
The Prime Minister attacked those that would suggest that if not for EU intervention, the UK would be a less liberal and less enlightened country. He rattled off a list of six areas where the UK had instigated important regulatory changes only for the European Union to follow suit, and sometimes much later. The six areas were the UK has lead and the EU has followed are in the minimum wage, paternity leave, maternity leave, animal welfare, carbon neutral by 2050 and flexible working hours.
He extolled how the EU had dragged their feet on introducing two week’s of paternity leave, while “we in the UK guaranteed two week’s of paternity leave two decades ago”. The Prime Minister listed the areas in which the UK had paved the way and the EU had followed in its wake. He said: “The EU only gives employees the rights to request flexible working hours only if those are parents or carers. He added: “Whilst the UK provides that right to every employee with more than six months service, and they can make the request for any reason.”
Boris Johnson speaking at the Old Naval College in Greenwich
Ursula von der Leyen
Mr Johnson added that the “EU provides 14 weeks of paid maternity leave, whilst Britain ups this to a whole year of paid parental leave, with the opportunity to share this between parents.” He went on to point out how, “the UK has a higher minimum wage than all but three EU states, and in fact, six EU states do not have a minimum wage at all”. The Prime Minister went on to focus on animal welfare. The UK is way ahead he said, “the UK banned the shipment of veal crates 16 years before the EU”. JUST IN: Le cheek! EU wants Britain to pay ANOTHER £1BILLION because our economy is booming!
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Boris Johnson and Leo Varadkar
Ursula von der Leyen and Michel Barnier
He added: “We are protecting elephants by having one of the strictest ivory bans in the world, while the EU is still going through the consultation process on this.” Speaking of global warming, which he referred to as “the great environmental issue of our time”, saying that the UK was the first nation in the world to place on our own shoulders a legal obligation to be carbon neutral by 2050. He said: “We have cut carbon emissions by twice the EU average since 1990”. Mr Johnson spoke of how the UK will maintain higher standards in the areas of food safety, worker’s rights, commercial regulations and the environment, and “sometimes better indeed than the EU.” DON'T MISS: ‘You’ll be back’: Verhofstadt’s parting shot hours after Brexit [INSIGHT]
'Britain in the EU is a square peg in a round hole’ - Britons rejoice [COMMENT]
European Commission bills Britain one billion on EU exit day [DEVELOPED]
Boris Johnson and Leo Varadkar
Prime minister Boris Johnson
But, without the compulsion of a “level playing field” treaty were the UK must match the EU’s rules and regulations. There is no need for a free trade deal to include Britain accepting EU regulations, “any more than the UK should be required to accept UK rules”. He said: “We have so often been told that we must choose either full access to the EU bloc by accepting its rules and courts, like the Norway model”. “But we want a free trade agreement that avoids all the EU regulations, like the Canada deal.
Key moments that led to Brexit
EU currencies
“We want to have a free trade deal with Europe comparable to Canada’s.” Mr Johnson said: “Are we going to insist that the EU does everything that we do as the price of free trade, of course not. “Does that mean we will refuse a zero-tariff deal with the EU, unless it agrees to match us every step of the way, no we will not.” He attacked those who suggest that Britain was saved from “Dickensian squalor only by enlightened EU regulation”.
Boris Johnson has listed the ways in which the UK leads the way over Europe
Urusula von der Leyen
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-02-03--EU crisis: Historian sends warning to Brussels - ‘Brexit ripping bloc apart!’

Professor Kiran Klaus-Patel also said the “ real game ” in Brexit lies in any future relationship with the European Union going forward .
The historian highlighted the rise in right-wing populist parties across Europe and the rocky road ahead for Brussels after Brexit .
Professor Klaus-Patel said some other European countries have previously flirted with an exit , they have “ gradually axed these positions ” .
He said long negotiations had previously a deterrent effect on EU critics , causing them to back off from plans to quit the bloc .
Now , however , the option might @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this would only be the case if Britain succeeds in negotiating an advantageous deal .
A number of EU members have potentially expressed a desire to stage their own exit plans .
Recently , a Eurobarometer poll showed Poland is the most eurosceptic country in the EU27 .
The poll revealed nearly 50 % of Poles believed they could face a better future outside the European Union in what many are dubbing ‘ Polexit ’ .
Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage has said the bloc could collapse “ within 10 years ” as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Mr Farage went on to say Poland , Italy and Denmark are the “ frontrunners ” to leap from the European bloc .
And a Brexit Day poll by Express.co.uk has found Italy could be the most likely country to follow Britain out .
READ MORE : Merkel could replace Juncker to 'COMPLETE German DOMINATION of Europe' Speaking to Deutschlandfunk Kultur radio , Professor Klaus-Patel said Britain ’ s withdrawal from the EU is a “ serious loss , because it is not just any member state ” .
The professor argued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nuclear power and economic strength and this makes its departure significant .
However , Professor Klaus-Patel also said Britain should continue to have a close relationship with the EU .
DO N'T MISS : Iceland PM laughs off taking EU membership and wants to QUIT Nato too [ REVEALED ] EU news : Varoufakis tells Greece to quit the euro and return to drachma [ SHOCK ] Germany should LEAVE the eurozone says new Italian ministers [ INSIGHT ] He was not , however , clear as to how a relationship between the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time .
He concluded with his belief that he does not think the UK can return to a “ global political model of complete autonomy ” .
Professor Klaus-Patel is a German-British historian who is a fellow of the Royal Historical Society .
His publication of a history of the European Union in 2018 gained significant attention in Germany .
And he said in a previous interview : “ We often talk of the United Kingdom ’ s exit from the European project as being unprecedented .
“ But that ’ s not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 1962 , followed by Greenland in 1985 .
“ I still believe that there are lessons to be learned from the past .

Former Polish minister: Morawiecki may engineer Polexit
Professor Kiran Klaus-Patel also said the “real game” in Brexit lies in any future relationship with the European Union going forward. The historian highlighted the rise in right-wing populist parties across Europe and the rocky road ahead for Brussels after Brexit. Professor Klaus-Patel said some other European countries have previously flirted with an exit, they have “gradually axed these positions”.
He said long negotiations had previously a deterrent effect on EU critics, causing them to back off from plans to quit the bloc. Now, however, the option might be back on the table. But this would only be the case if Britain succeeds in negotiating an advantageous deal. A number of EU members have potentially expressed a desire to stage their own exit plans.
Britain's exit from the EU could spark more departures
Britain's flag has been taken down from its former EU counterparts
Recently, a Eurobarometer poll showed Poland is the most eurosceptic country in the EU27. The poll revealed nearly 50% of Poles believed they could face a better future outside the European Union in what many are dubbing ‘Polexit’. Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage has said the bloc could collapse “within 10 years” as Britain’s departure influences other members. Mr Farage went on to say Poland, Italy and Denmark are the “frontrunners” to leap from the European bloc. And a Brexit Day poll by Express.co.uk has found Italy could be the most likely country to follow Britain out. READ MORE: Merkel could replace Juncker to 'COMPLETE German DOMINATION of Europe'
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Poland could be next to quit the bloc in what is being dubbed Polexit
Some in France have also expressed appetite to leave the bloc
Britain quit the EU on January 31
He was not, however, clear as to how a relationship between the UK and the bloc will develop over time. He concluded with his belief that he does not think the UK can return to a “global political model of complete autonomy”. Professor Klaus-Patel is a German-British historian who is a fellow of the Royal Historical Society. His publication of a history of the European Union in 2018 gained significant attention in Germany.
Contributors and beneficiaries of the EU
And he said in a previous interview: “We often talk of the United Kingdom’s exit from the European project as being unprecedented. “But that’s not quite right. Algeria left the EC in 1962, followed by Greenland in 1985. “I still believe that there are lessons to be learned from the past.
Nigel Farage said the bloc could be dismantled 'within 10 years'
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-02-03--Brexit fishing news: What will Brexit mean for EU fishing laws? Boris to REJECT EU deal

With Brexit done the country has entered into an 11-month transition period during which the current agreements will remain in @ @ @ @ @ negotiated .
And Prime Minister Boris Johnson is already primed to reject EU demands on @ @ @ @ @ mean for EU fishing laws ?
The current EU regulation – the Common Fisheries Policy @ @ @ @ @ British trawlers can catch and where , and the UK will no longer abide by @ @ @ @ @ of the transition period .
British fishermen have complained that the legislation is unjust as @ @ @ @ @ their fair share of what is caught in UK waters .
British ships land 32 @ @ @ @ @ fish caught in UK waters , while EU boats take 43 percent and Norway 21 @ @

Brexit: UK 'won’t undermine EU standards’ says Boris Johnson
With Brexit done the country has entered into an 11-month transition period during which the current agreements will remain in place while new ones are negotiated. And Prime Minister Boris Johnson is already primed to reject EU demands on fishing.
What will Brexit mean for EU fishing laws? The current EU regulation – the Common Fisheries Policy – determines how much fish British trawlers can catch and where, and the UK will no longer abide by this law at the end of the transition period. British fishermen have complained that the legislation is unjust as it prevents them from getting their fair share of what is caught in UK waters. British ships land 32 percent of the total of fish caught in UK waters, while EU boats take 43 percent and Norway 21 percent. READ MORE: EU FARCE: Boris exposes France and Germany abusing state aid
Brexit fishing news: What will Brexit mean for EU fishing laws? Boris to REJECT EU deal
Brexit fishing news: British ships land 32 percent of the total of fish caught in UK waters, while EU boats take 43 percent and Norway 21 percent
READ MORE ‘No use to them’ Varadkar issues UK fishing threat in final Brexit dig The European Union’s negotiator, Michel Barnier, said today that a free-trade deal between the bloc and the UK “must include an agreement on fisheries”. “This agreement should provide reciprocal access to markets and waters, which contains quota shares.” But Boris Johnson is to reject those demands, which would give foreign ships 25 years of access to UK waters. The alternative put forward would see European nations having to negotiate their access quota to British waters on an annual basis.
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Brexit fishing news: Michel Barnier wants the EU access to UK waters
Brexit fishing news: Boris Johnson will reject eh EU's fishing proposals
READ MORE Brexit victory: Nissan backs Britain in major manufacturing boost Environment Secretary Theresa Villiers said: “This new Fisheries Bill takes back control of our waters, enabling the UK to create a sustainable, profitable fishing industry for our coastal communities, whilst securing the long-term health of British fisheries. “Leaving the EU’s failed Common Fisheries Policy is one of the most important benefits of Brexit. It means we can create a fairer system which will allow marine habitats to thrive, with new powers to support our fishing sector and conserve our wonderful Blue Belt at home and abroad.” Barrie Deas, chief executive of the National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations, said: “The central purpose of the bill is to give UK ministers powers to manage UK fisheries after we leave the Common Fisheries Policy. We very much welcome that.”
Brexit fishing news: The new Fisheries Bill includes measures that consider the impact of climate change on fisheries
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-02-03--Ireland election: What could Ireland's election mean for the EU and Brexit negotiations?

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is fighting to win a third successive term in government for his party , Fine Gael .
@ @ @ @ @ him is the leader of Fianna Fáil , Micheál Martin , while Sinn Féin leader @ @ @ @ @ a boost of support in the polls .
So what could this mean for the @ @ @ @ @ election comes at a pivotal time for Ireland , as the UK and EU settle @ @ @ @ @ of intense Brexit negotiations .
`` The best team for Brexit '' is among Fine @ @ @ @ @ Mr Varadker seeks to portray himself as the best man to get the job done @ @ @ @ @ the deputy leader of Fine Gael , Simon Coveney , have had a high profile @ @ @ @ @ role in the Brexit process .
READ MORE : Sinn Fein surge threatens to make @ @ @ @ @

Leo Varadkar: It's difficult to form government in next few months
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is fighting to win a third successive term in government for his party, Fine Gael. The main challenger to replace him is the leader of Fianna Fáil, Micheál Martin, while Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald has seen a boost of support in the polls.
So what could this mean for the EU and Brexit? The election comes at a pivotal time for Ireland, as the UK and EU settle in for the final rounds of intense Brexit negotiations. "The best team for Brexit" is among Fine Gael's election slogans as Mr Varadker seeks to portray himself as the best man to get the job done. Mr Varadkar, and the deputy leader of Fine Gael, Simon Coveney, have had a high profile overseas because of their central role in the Brexit process. READ MORE: Sinn Fein surge threatens to make Varadkar history in Irish election
Ireland election: Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Mary Lou McDonald, and Micheál Martin
Ireland election: Candidates ahead of a televised debate
READ MORE Boris attacks EU for ‘failing to lead’ before raising Brexit stakes They have sought to highlight their roles in helping to secure a deal which is widely acknowledged as being a diplomatic success for Britain's nearest neighbour. Mr Varadkar has said Brexit is "only at half-time" because trade negotiations between the UK and the EU are yet to come. Fianna Fáil’s Micheál Martin has accused Fine Gael of a "cynical" attempt to "politicise" Brexit. He argues that his party has had plenty of experience of negotiating within, and as part of, the EU.
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Ireland election: Varadkar has sought to highlight his party's roles in helping to secure a deal
He points out that a Fianna Fáil government brought Ireland into the EU's forerunner, the European Economic Community. Sinn Féin is pointing to Brexit as one of the main reasons to push for one of its priorities, the unification of Ireland, given that 56 percent of people in Northern Ireland voted to remain in the EU. A poll released on Monday conducted for The Times show more than 40 per cent of Irish voters want to see a united Ireland in the next decade, with a further 19 per cent saying they wanted unity to happen within 20 years. Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil, however, argue that holding a referendum on Irish unity in the next few years would be destabilising and risk raising tensions in Northern Ireland.
READ MORE Dan Hannan calls for three constitutional reforms Boris should adopt Mr Varakar has warned that difficulties in forming a government could directly impact Britain's post-Brexit trade deal and lead to instability which could pose a threat to the EU. Speaking on the BBC's Andrew Marr Show, the Taoiseach said it was "all to play for" after several polls put the major parties "neck and neck". He said: “I know that's something the Irish people will reflect on when they go to the polls at the weekend - the need to have a stable government - because that's essential to our future in so many ways.” Mr Varadkar said any future deals between the EU and the UK must "start off on better footing than maybe was the case after the referendum".
Ireland election: "The best team for Brexit" is among Fine Gael's election slogans
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-02-03--Irish election: Varadkar faces defeat as fears of Sinn Féin Fianna Fáil coalition grow

Mr Varadkar is bitterly fighting to hold onto power and achieve a third successive term in government for his party , Fine Gael , in Saturday ’ s general election .
The main challenger to replace him as prime minister , or taoiseach , is the leader of Fianna Fáil , Micheál Martin , who may form a coalition to oust his opponent with support from Sinn Féin ’ s Mary Loy McDonald .
Polls are suggesting an increase in support for Sinn Féin , which goes into the election as the third largest party .
The overall arithmetic after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as no party is expected to win enough seats to command an overall majority in the main chamber of the Irish Parliament , the Dáil .
Mr Varadkar is the leader of Fine Gael , the party with the highest number of current seats in the Dáil .
Mr Varadkar ’ s government is a minority coalition , made up of Fine Gael and independent members and propped up by Fianna Fail in a confidence-and-supply agreement .
Mr Varadkar accused Fianna Fáil of arrogance and said a growing list of its election candidates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ willing to go into government with Sinn Féin .
Speaking in Ballincollig in Co Cork , Mr Varadkar was asked to respond to Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin ’ s assertion he would not trust Mr Varadkar not to go into coalition with Mary Lou McDonald ’ s party .
Mr Varadkar said : “ I don ’ t trust Fianna Fáil because quite a lot of their candidates have said they would be open to coalition with Sinn Féin.
” He listed Fianna Fáil candidates that would support a coalition with Sinn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Darragh O ’ Brien , Eamon Scanlon , Jim McGuinness , Kevin O ’ Keeffe and Mary Butler had all indicated they were willing to enter government with Sinn Féin .
Mr Varadkar added : “ So there ’ s quite a growing list of Fianna Fáil people gearing up for coalition with Sinn Féin .
JUST IN : EU ’ s Tusk stokes UK division pushing EU membership for Scotland He said Fianna Fáil has an “ honest disagreement ” with Sinn Féin on policies , saying Sinn Féin ’ s policies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He said Fine Gael and others are forgetting other parties could form a government with Fianna Fáil .
Responding to Mr Varadkar ’ s naming of Fianna Fáil TDs who he said were open to the possibility of government with Sinn Féin , Mr Martin said “ we can all do that ” .
He described Fine Gael ’ s Regina Doherty as a senior minister who has made “ fulsome comments ” about Sinn Féin .

Leo Varadkar: It's difficult to form government in next few months
Mr Varadkar is bitterly fighting to hold onto power and achieve a third successive term in government for his party, Fine Gael, in Saturday’s general election. The main challenger to replace him as prime minister, or taoiseach, is the leader of Fianna Fáil, Micheál Martin, who may form a coalition to oust his opponent with support from Sinn Féin’s Mary Loy McDonald. Polls are suggesting an increase in support for Sinn Féin, which goes into the election as the third largest party.
The overall arithmetic after polling day will be critically important, as no party is expected to win enough seats to command an overall majority in the main chamber of the Irish Parliament, the Dáil. Mr Varadkar is the leader of Fine Gael, the party with the highest number of current seats in the Dáil. Mr Varadkar’s government is a minority coalition, made up of Fine Gael and independent members and propped up by Fianna Fail in a confidence-and-supply agreement. Mr Varadkar accused Fianna Fáil of arrogance and said a growing list of its election candidates have made it clear they would be willing to go into government with Sinn Féin.
Leo Varadkar and Boris Johnson
Leo Varadkar and Boris Johnson
Speaking in Ballincollig in Co Cork, Mr Varadkar was asked to respond to Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin’s assertion he would not trust Mr Varadkar not to go into coalition with Mary Lou McDonald’s party. Mr Varadkar said: “I don’t trust Fianna Fáil because quite a lot of their candidates have said they would be open to coalition with Sinn Féin.” He listed Fianna Fáil candidates that would support a coalition with Sinn Féin, such as Pat Gallagher, Darragh O’Brien, Eamon Scanlon, Jim McGuinness, Kevin O’Keeffe and Mary Butler had all indicated they were willing to enter government with Sinn Féin. Mr Varadkar added: “So there’s quite a growing list of Fianna Fáil people gearing up for coalition with Sinn Féin. JUST IN: EU’s Tusk stokes UK division pushing EU membership for Scotland
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Leo Varadkar
Leader of Fianna Fáil Micheál Martin
Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald
He said Fianna Fáil has an “honest disagreement” with Sinn Féin on policies, saying Sinn Féin’s policies could damage jobs and the economy. He said Fine Gael and others are forgetting other parties could form a government with Fianna Fáil. Responding to Mr Varadkar’s naming of Fianna Fáil TDs who he said were open to the possibility of government with Sinn Féin, Mr Martin said “we can all do that”. He described Fine Gael’s Regina Doherty as a senior minister who has made “fulsome comments” about Sinn Féin.
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-02-03--John Bercow opens up over wife’s affair - ‘I wasn’t a good enough husband’

Mr Bercow said he was “ inconsiderate ” of his wife ’ s needs and had “ not found enough time for her ” .
The politician opened up on his “ tempestuous ” relationship with his wife of 18 years and admitted his own part in her affair .
He told the Sunday Times : “ The case of the so-called bedsheets she was lured into .
She admits that she made a mistake .
Whereas obviously there has to be a reason why somebody has an affair .
“ At the time she was feeling enormously down , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I was enormously focused on what I was doing , but that the balance was wrong and I wasn ’ t finding enough time for her , so I bear some responsibility for that .
“ Did she later regret it ?
It ’ s clear that she did and she said so .
Do I bear a grudge ?
Absolutely not .
Frankly , I don ’ t bear a grudge towards my cousin.
” The former Speaker married his wife , Sally , in 2002 , and the couple have three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was reported he was seeking a divorce , when his wife had an affair with his cousin Alan Bercow .
She moved in with him briefly but he later terminated the affair and went back to his own wife Erica Bercow .
Speaker Bercow and his wife later worked on their marriage and reconciled .
Now , Mr Bercow said , his relationship with his wife is better than ever .
READ MORE : John Bercow wife : How Sally Bercow insists she is a ‘ terrible wife ’ He said : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We ’ ve had our ups and downs , but she ’ s my wife , my best friend and a terrific asset.
” Mr Bercow revealed his relationship with his cousin , however , has broken down .
He added : “ We don ’ t have any contact .
It was quite a big deal.
” The relationship between the former Speaker and his wife has gained significant attention over the years .
When the news broke of Mrs Bercow ’ s affair , she spoke of her regret .
DO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sally spells trouble , says ADAM HELLIKER [ COMMENT ] Sally Bercow warned : You have one last chance to save your marriage [ REVEALED ] The Bercows ' love forever a mystery , says VANESSA FELTZ [ COMMENT ] She said : “ Am I a good wife ?
I ’ m a terrible wife .
I always have been .
If I was John , I wouldn ’ t put up with me .
I ’ m not even going to say that he ’ ll take me back .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he ’ s the public figure - I ’ m not .
No marriage is perfect , if John wants me back he ’ s crazy .
“ He ’ s not a weak man , he ’ s an amazing man .
He loves me very much .
Is he a forgiving man ?
Very .
But I ’ m not sure I want to be forgiven.
” Whilst not a public figure like her husband , Mrs Bercow has gained attention in the public eye .
She was the first person @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brother house in 2011 , and has also taken part in a celebrity edition of game show The Chase .
She was also criticised after a photograph of her standing in a bedsheet in front of the House of Commons was published as part of an interview with the Evening Standard .
In the interview , Mrs Bercow said : “ The view from Speaker ’ s House is incredibly sexy..I never realised how sexy I would find living under Big Ben with the bells chiming.
” She also described her husband as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” upon being elected Speaker .

John Bercow appears emotional during MPs tributes
Mr Bercow said he was “inconsiderate” of his wife’s needs and had “not found enough time for her”. The politician opened up on his “tempestuous” relationship with his wife of 18 years and admitted his own part in her affair. He told the Sunday Times: “The case of the so-called bedsheets she was lured into. She admits that she made a mistake. Whereas obviously there has to be a reason why somebody has an affair.
“At the time she was feeling enormously down, miserable, rather neglected. She thought I was enormously focused on what I was doing, but that the balance was wrong and I wasn’t finding enough time for her, so I bear some responsibility for that. “Did she later regret it? It’s clear that she did and she said so. Do I bear a grudge? Absolutely not. Frankly, I don’t bear a grudge towards my cousin.” The former Speaker married his wife, Sally, in 2002, and the couple have three children.
The ex-Speaker took partial responsibility for his wife's affair
Mr Bercow spoke about his wife in the promotion of his memoirs
However, in 2015 it was reported he was seeking a divorce, when his wife had an affair with his cousin Alan Bercow. She moved in with him briefly but he later terminated the affair and went back to his own wife Erica Bercow. Speaker Bercow and his wife later worked on their marriage and reconciled. Now, Mr Bercow said, his relationship with his wife is better than ever. READ MORE: John Bercow wife: How Sally Bercow insists she is a ‘terrible wife’
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Mr Bercow said he was 'inconsiderate' of his wife's needs
Mrs Bercow had an affair with her husband's cousin
Mr Bercow and his wife have been married since 2002
She said: “Am I a good wife? I’m a terrible wife. I always have been. If I was John, I wouldn’t put up with me. I’m not even going to say that he’ll take me back. “It’s up to John, he’s the public figure - I’m not. No marriage is perfect, if John wants me back he’s crazy. “He’s not a weak man, he’s an amazing man. He loves me very much. Is he a forgiving man? Very. But I’m not sure I want to be forgiven.” Whilst not a public figure like her husband, Mrs Bercow has gained attention in the public eye.
John Bercow defends politicians in Christmas message
She was the first person to be evicted from the Celebrity Big Brother house in 2011, and has also taken part in a celebrity edition of game show The Chase. She was also criticised after a photograph of her standing in a bedsheet in front of the House of Commons was published as part of an interview with the Evening Standard. In the interview, Mrs Bercow said: “The view from Speaker’s House is incredibly sexy..I never realised how sexy I would find living under Big Ben with the bells chiming.” She also described her husband as having turned into a “sex symbol” upon being elected Speaker.
Mr and Mrs Bercow later reconciled
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-03--Brexit reality sets in as divided EU in desperate bid to plug budget hole

The multiannual financial framework ( MFF ) , the EU ’ s long-term budget organisation , this weekend declared no member state of the bloc wanted to shoulder the burden of the UK ’ s departure .
The MFF wrote : “ No Member State should suffer a sharp and disproportional decrease of its Cohesion allocation.
” The MFF ’ s seven-year budget is a cornerstone of EU policy that allots funding to help farmers compete against imports from the developing world and underpins projects that bind the union together .
The net recipients of EU funding do not want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they receive annually .
The poorer nations , which see the so-called cohesion policy as a key tool to help them catch up with wealthier countries , now want their richer peers to contribute more money to make up for the UK ’ s withdrawal .
After the UK formally left the European Union , the bloc ’ s poorer members gathered in an old Franciscan convent in southern Portugal to rally against a looming budgetary shortfall that ’ s partly due to the loss of British contributions .
In the discussion about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ far apart , Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban told reporters on Saturday .
He said : “ We need not just days but months to make an agreement that could be accepted by everybody.
” Brexit is deepening the rift between richer and poorer EU states as they clash on the bloc ’ s trillion-euro £0.93 billion , $ 1.1 trillion , budget for the next seven years .
On Saturday in Beja , Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa said : “ This meeting is happening on a very special day as it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the EU has just 27 members .
“ It ’ s important to give the clear message that the union will remain cohesive.
” READ MORE : BBC 's Laura Kuenssberg warns 'do n't be foolish ' over Varadkar quote It is a smaller EU , now Britain is out , which means a smaller budget , and poorer members are fighting to keep the hole created by Britain ’ s departure from being filled by cuts to development funds .
The EU will need to find a different approach to sharing a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ diplomat said .
They said : “ Whether the EU remains a relevant economic player does not depend on agriculture subsidies or funding for other old-fashioned spending areas .
“ It depends on the EU ’ s determination to invest into the future in a post-Brexit world with altogether tougher budget constraints .
Lisa Nandy calls for change in the Labour Party to stop 15 year streak [ INSIGHT ] Peston mocks Labour leadership contest and takes swipe at Keir Starmer [ INSIGHT ] John McDonnell admits even LABOUR is sick of listening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU is massively lagging behind the US and China in areas like artificial intelligence .
“ The next EU budget offers a chance to fund the catch-up process and keep the EU in the game on cutting-edge technologies .
“ But instead of investing into the future , there is intense lobbying to preserve old funding priorities.
” On Sunday Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki told PAP newswire : “ The EU should have resources for new goals , but not at the cost of instruments that are the foundation of its actions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Agreement on the size of contributions is needed before decisions can be taken on how they should be spent , and the conditions attached to the disbursements .
EU spending amounts to about 1 percent of the bloc ’ s gross domestic product .
Ursula von der Leyen repeated the EU ’ s general line in upcoming trade negotiations with the United Kingdom , the EU president said : “ We want the best possible partnership , but it will never be as good as membership .
”

Brexit Day is 'very emotional' says Ursula von der Leyen
The multiannual financial framework (MFF), the EU’s long-term budget organisation, this weekend declared no member state of the bloc wanted to shoulder the burden of the UK’s departure. The MFF wrote: “No Member State should suffer a sharp and disproportional decrease of its Cohesion allocation.” The MFF’s seven-year budget is a cornerstone of EU policy that allots funding to help farmers compete against imports from the developing world and underpins projects that bind the union together.
The net recipients of EU funding do not want to see a reduction in the grants they receive annually. The poorer nations, which see the so-called cohesion policy as a key tool to help them catch up with wealthier countries, now want their richer peers to contribute more money to make up for the UK’s withdrawal. After the UK formally left the European Union, the bloc’s poorer members gathered in an old Franciscan convent in southern Portugal to rally against a looming budgetary shortfall that’s partly due to the loss of British contributions. In the discussion about the next budget, positions are very far apart, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban told reporters on Saturday.
Ursula von der Leyen European President
He said: “We need not just days but months to make an agreement that could be accepted by everybody.” Brexit is deepening the rift between richer and poorer EU states as they clash on the bloc’s trillion-euro £0.93 billion, $1.1 trillion, budget for the next seven years. On Saturday in Beja, Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa said: “This meeting is happening on a very special day as it’s the first day in which the EU has just 27 members. “It’s important to give the clear message that the union will remain cohesive.” READ MORE: BBC's Laura Kuenssberg warns 'don't be foolish' over Varadkar quote
Ursula von der Leyen
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Ursula von der Leyen and Michel Barnier
It is a smaller EU, now Britain is out, which means a smaller budget, and poorer members are fighting to keep the hole created by Britain’s departure from being filled by cuts to development funds. The EU will need to find a different approach to sharing a smaller pot of funding, one EU diplomat said. They said: “Whether the EU remains a relevant economic player does not depend on agriculture subsidies or funding for other old-fashioned spending areas. “It depends on the EU’s determination to invest into the future in a post-Brexit world with altogether tougher budget constraints. DON'T MISS Lisa Nandy calls for change in the Labour Party to stop 15 year streak [INSIGHT]
Peston mocks Labour leadership contest and takes swipe at Keir Starmer [INSIGHT]
John McDonnell admits even LABOUR is sick of listening to him [VIDEO]
European currencies
“The EU is massively lagging behind the US and China in areas like artificial intelligence. “The next EU budget offers a chance to fund the catch-up process and keep the EU in the game on cutting-edge technologies. “But instead of investing into the future, there is intense lobbying to preserve old funding priorities.” On Sunday Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki told PAP newswire: “The EU should have resources for new goals, but not at the cost of instruments that are the foundation of its actions and have for years been functioning well.
Ursula von der Leyen and Michel Barnier
Ursula von der Leyen European President oversees the EU budget without the UK's input
“It can afford more.” Agreement on the size of contributions is needed before decisions can be taken on how they should be spent, and the conditions attached to the disbursements. EU spending amounts to about 1 percent of the bloc’s gross domestic product. Ursula von der Leyen repeated the EU’s general line in upcoming trade negotiations with the United Kingdom, the EU president said: “We want the best possible partnership, but it will never be as good as membership.”
Boris Johnson fact file
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thedailyexpress--2020-02-03--Nigel Farage: Europe’s running scared of UK competition

He claimed Germany – Europe ’ s powerhouse – is on the brink of recession and that the UK ’ s newfound economic freedom “ terrifies ” the bloc .
His remarks come as the Prime Minister uses a speech today to toughen his stance ahead of trade negotiations .
He will say he will not be accepting alignment with EU rules .
The move away from Brussels was welcomed by Mr Farage , who told BBC One ’ s Andrew Marr Show yesterday : “ If we finish up with alignment , it means the 88 per cent of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into the EU is still bound by EU rules and that wouldn ’ t be Brexit .
“ I think [ Boris ] is saying all the right things .
“ I think he is being consistent with the manifesto on which he was elected.
” Mr Farage , who was an MEP , said of the EU : “ I got the sense before leaving that for the first time since 2016 , they are a bit more frightened of us than we are of them .
“ What they fear more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Italy is in recession , Germany is very close to being in recession – what they fear is a competitor on their doorstep .

He claimed Germany – Europe’s powerhouse – is on the brink of recession and that the UK’s newfound economic freedom “terrifies” the bloc. His remarks come as the Prime Minister uses a speech today to toughen his stance ahead of trade negotiations. He will say he will not be accepting alignment with EU rules. The move away from Brussels was welcomed by Mr Farage, who told BBC One’s Andrew Marr Show yesterday: “If we finish up with alignment, it means the 88 per cent of our economy that does not sell goods into the EU is still bound by EU rules and that wouldn’t be Brexit.
“I think [Boris] is saying all the right things.
“I think he is being consistent with the manifesto on which he was elected.”
Mr Farage, who was an MEP, said of the EU: “I got the sense before leaving that for the first time since 2016, they are a bit more frightened of us than we are of them.
“What they fear more than anything – and bear in mind Italy is in recession, Germany is very close to being in recession – what they fear is a competitor on their doorstep.


thedailyexpress--2020-02-04--Varadkar on the BRINK: Irish voters ABANDON PM’s party as Sinn Fein leads latest poll

The Ipsos MRBI survey for the Irish Times had support for left-wing Sinn Fein up four percent from the previous poll last month to 25 percent .
SimIlar polls over recent weeks had suggested the party would finish third with the backing of just a fifth of the electorate .
The latest survey shows support for centre-right Fianna Fail has slipped two percent to 23 percent , while Leo Varadkar ’ s Fine Gael party are languishing in third position with 20 percent of the vote .
Support for the Taoiseach 's party had been as high as 36 percent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a year ago , but shows the Irish public are quickly losing faith in him .
Meanwhile , support for Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald has surged seven percent from last month 's poll to 41 percent , while Mr Varadkar has seen his popularity slump by five percent to 30 percent .
But despite the surge in support , Sinn Fein are unlikely to emerge as the largest party from Saturday 's general election as it is only running 42 candidates .
This is around half the number of candidates being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fail .
Sinn Fein has pledged to abolish the Universal Social Charge , a tax imposed to help repay international lending to Ireland following the post-boom collapse of the economy , on the first €30,000 earned .
It has also said it would scrap a levy on property if it got into power .
Mary Lou McDonald has also been invited by broadcaster RTE to take part in Tuesday evening ’ s leaders ’ debate .
The original line-up for the debate was to be limited to Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ LIVE : UK readies for no deal Brexit as WTO officially notified But the RTE General Election steering committee met on Monday to consider the party 's representations to include Ms McDonald following Sinn Fein ’ s surge in recent polls .
Sinn Fein director of elections Pearse Doherty said : `` I want to welcome the decision by RTE to extend an invite to Mary Lou McDonald to take part in tomorrow 's party leaders ' debate on Prime Time , and I am happy to confirm that Mary Lou will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this should not have come down to a last-minute decision on the part of RTE . ''
Mr Varadkar started his final week of campaigning by insisting he will work right until the end to convince people to vote for Fine Gael .
He said : `` I appreciate what we 're offering is less than what the other parties are offering on this but I 'm concerned that what 's happening is an auction and an auction that could result in us auctioning off the pensions of the young.
” DO N'T @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the EU and Brexit negotiations ?
[ ANALYSIS ] Varadkar 's bid for access to UK waters in Brexit deal savaged [ COMMENT ] Leo Varadkar is too big for his boots , writes TIM NEWARK [ OPINION ] Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe said Fine Gael will tell voters not all change is good , following polls showing support for the party is declining .
Speaking in Dublin on Monday , he said : `` Not all change can be risk-free and not all change can be positive .
`` What we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ head into the final week of the campaign is emphasising that in our manifesto and in the plans that we have published we have recognised the progress that has been made in our country - due to the sacrifices of the Irish people - and making the claim to the Irish people that change is happening and we are ambitious for more change to happen . ''
He added : `` In relation to Fianna Fail and the changes they say they will make - where are their plans ?
Where is their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on what we have already done , acknowledging what needs to be done and be unapologetic in challenging other parties that are putting forward mantras of change but in offering these mantras of change .
`` Fianna Fail are putting forward their worst hits of their recent past and what Sinn Fein are offering is the kind of ideas that will do such harm to workers income , to wages and to their jobs .
`` They have claimed they are going to put forward new ideas for investment involving 15 different tax @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bad for those at work , tax hikes that would be bad for those looking to create jobs . ''
Irish voters are due to go to the polls on Saturday as Mr Varadkar desperately tries to fight off challenges from opposition parties .
But on Monday it was announced Ireland 's final general election results will be delayed following the death of a candidate .

Leo Varadkar: It's difficult to form government in next few months
The Ipsos MRBI survey for the Irish Times had support for left-wing Sinn Fein up four percent from the previous poll last month to 25 percent. SimIlar polls over recent weeks had suggested the party would finish third with the backing of just a fifth of the electorate. The latest survey shows support for centre-right Fianna Fail has slipped two percent to 23 percent, while Leo Varadkar’s Fine Gael party are languishing in third position with 20 percent of the vote.
Support for the Taoiseach's party had been as high as 36 percent from the same poll conducted just over a year ago, but shows the Irish public are quickly losing faith in him. Meanwhile, support for Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald has surged seven percent from last month's poll to 41 percent, while Mr Varadkar has seen his popularity slump by five percent to 30 percent. But despite the surge in support, Sinn Fein are unlikely to emerge as the largest party from Saturday's general election as it is only running 42 candidates. This is around half the number of candidates being fielded by both Fine Gael and Fianna Fail.
Leo Varadkar has been dealt a huge blow in a leading poll just before the Irish general election
The Taoiseach's popularity has also plummeted in the latest poll
Sinn Fein has pledged to abolish the Universal Social Charge, a tax imposed to help repay international lending to Ireland following the post-boom collapse of the economy, on the first €30,000 earned. It has also said it would scrap a levy on property if it got into power. Mary Lou McDonald has also been invited by broadcaster RTE to take part in Tuesday evening’s leaders’ debate. The original line-up for the debate was to be limited to Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin and Mr Varadkar. READ MORE: Brexit LIVE: UK readies for no deal Brexit as WTO officially notified
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Support for Mary Lou McDonald has surged
But the RTE General Election steering committee met on Monday to consider the party's representations to include Ms McDonald following Sinn Fein’s surge in recent polls. Sinn Fein director of elections Pearse Doherty said: "I want to welcome the decision by RTE to extend an invite to Mary Lou McDonald to take part in tomorrow's party leaders' debate on Prime Time, and I am happy to confirm that Mary Lou will be participating. "That being said, this should not have come down to a last-minute decision on the part of RTE." Mr Varadkar started his final week of campaigning by insisting he will work right until the end to convince people to vote for Fine Gael. He said: "I appreciate what we're offering is less than what the other parties are offering on this but I'm concerned that what's happening is an auction and an auction that could result in us auctioning off the pensions of the young.” DON'T MISS
What could Ireland's election mean for the EU and Brexit negotiations? [ANALYSIS]
Varadkar's bid for access to UK waters in Brexit deal savaged [COMMENT]
Leo Varadkar is too big for his boots, writes TIM NEWARK [OPINION]
Mary Lou McDonald will take part in a leaders' debate on RTE on Tuesday evening
Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe said Fine Gael will tell voters not all change is good, following polls showing support for the party is declining. Speaking in Dublin on Monday, he said: "Not all change can be risk-free and not all change can be positive. "What we are going to be doing as we head into the final week of the campaign is emphasising that in our manifesto and in the plans that we have published we have recognised the progress that has been made in our country - due to the sacrifices of the Irish people - and making the claim to the Irish people that change is happening and we are ambitious for more change to happen." He added: "In relation to Fianna Fail and the changes they say they will make - where are their plans? Where is their detail? "We will be building on what we have already done, acknowledging what needs to be done and be unapologetic in challenging other parties that are putting forward mantras of change but in offering these mantras of change.
Leo Varadkar is desperately trying to fight off strong challenges from his rivals
"Fianna Fail are putting forward their worst hits of their recent past and what Sinn Fein are offering is the kind of ideas that will do such harm to workers income, to wages and to their jobs. "They have claimed they are going to put forward new ideas for investment involving 15 different tax hikes - tax hikes that would be bad for those at work, tax hikes that would be bad for those looking to create jobs." Fianna Fail finance spokesman Michael McGrath claimed Sinn Fein's tax policies will leave Ireland a "cold place" for businesses. Irish voters are due to go to the polls on Saturday as Mr Varadkar desperately tries to fight off challenges from opposition parties. But on Monday it was announced Ireland's final general election results will be delayed following the death of a candidate.
Paschal Donohoe lashed out at plans from Fianna Fail
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