thedailyexpress--2020-06-01--SNP demand top level Cabinet Office inquiry into 'completely unaccountable' Cummings

In a letter to the UK 's most senior civil servant at the Cabinet Office , the SNP 's Westminster leader Ian Blackford warned the chief advisers ' actions were not acceptable .
He said that Mr Cummings should be completely held to account after being accused of breaking COVID-19 lockdown rules adding there was a “ clear need ” for an inquiry .
Mr Cummings is accused of breaking lockdown rules by travelling from London to County Durham at the end of March .
But he has denied any wrongdoing and has received the full backing of Prime Minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 50-mile round trip to Barnard Castle days later so he could “ test his eyesight ” .
Durham Constabulary said Mr Cummings may have committed `` a minor breach '' of coronavirus lockdown rules when he undertook the trip to Barnard Castle but insisted that no action would be taken .
Mr Blackford said : “ Dominic Cummings must not be left completely unaccountable for his actions .
“ No matter how exceptional he thinks he is , there can not be one rule for Tory advisers and another for everyone else .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ indignation that Boris Johnson has refused to take his responsibilities as Prime Minister seriously and failed to remove Mr Cummings from post , severely undermining trust in the UK government and its public health guidance.
” He added that the Scottish National Party were being “ flooded with messages ” from constituents about the issue .
He continued : “ The Prime Minister has a duty to maintain public confidence in the rules , not undermine them in the middle of a global pandemic .
“ The success of test , trace and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the infection rate down and save lives , depends on public compliance .
“ Leading public health experts and the police have warned that this scandal has undermined public trust.
” The opinions of Boris Johnson ’ s stance on Dominic Cummings were backed by Labour Leader Sir Keir Starmer who accused the Prime Minister of having `` totally misjudged '' the nation 's mood over Mr Cummings ' actions .
He added : `` The weakness of the Prime Minister has meant a loss of a week when we should have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Adding in the letter to the Cabinet Office , Mr Blackford continued : “ No one should be above the rules .
“ If the Prime Minister won ’ t act , then there must be a Cabinet Office inquiry into the rule-breaking and the cover-up , and Parliament must find ways to hold Mr Cummings to account .
“ Otherwise people will think this is the establishment protecting itself .

Dominic Cummings: Van-Tam says lockdown rules ‘apply to all’
In a letter to the UK's most senior civil servant at the Cabinet Office, the SNP's Westminster leader Ian Blackford warned the chief advisers' actions were not acceptable. He said that Mr Cummings should be completely held to account after being accused of breaking COVID-19 lockdown rules adding there was a “clear need” for an inquiry.
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Mr Cummings is accused of breaking lockdown rules by travelling from London to County Durham at the end of March. But he has denied any wrongdoing and has received the full backing of Prime Minister Boris Johnson. He also undertook a 50-mile round trip to Barnard Castle days later so he could “test his eyesight”. Durham Constabulary said Mr Cummings may have committed "a minor breach" of coronavirus lockdown rules when he undertook the trip to Barnard Castle but insisted that no action would be taken.
Ian Blackford is leading calls for a Cabinet Office inquiry.
Mr Blackford previously called on Dominic Cummings to be sacked.
Mr Blackford said: “Dominic Cummings must not be left completely unaccountable for his actions. “No matter how exceptional he thinks he is, there cannot be one rule for Tory advisers and another for everyone else. “There is a real sense of indignation that Boris Johnson has refused to take his responsibilities as Prime Minister seriously and failed to remove Mr Cummings from post, severely undermining trust in the UK government and its public health guidance.” He added that the Scottish National Party were being “flooded with messages” from constituents about the issue. READ MORE: Robert Peston’s savage Dominic Cummings analysis exposed
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The Downing Street aide travelled to Durham on March 31st so he could self-isolate.
He continued: “The Prime Minister has a duty to maintain public confidence in the rules, not undermine them in the middle of a global pandemic. “The success of test, trace and isolate, and wider efforts to keep the infection rate down and save lives, depends on public compliance. “Leading public health experts and the police have warned that this scandal has undermined public trust.” The opinions of Boris Johnson’s stance on Dominic Cummings were backed by Labour Leader Sir Keir Starmer who accused the Prime Minister of having "totally misjudged" the nation's mood over Mr Cummings' actions. DON'T MISS:
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Ian Blackford sent the letter to the Cabinet Office.
He added: "The weakness of the Prime Minister has meant a loss of a week when we should have been concentrating on what comes next." Adding in the letter to the Cabinet Office, Mr Blackford continued: “No one should be above the rules. “If the Prime Minister won’t act, then there must be a Cabinet Office inquiry into the rule-breaking and the cover-up, and Parliament must find ways to hold Mr Cummings to account. “Otherwise people will think this is the establishment protecting itself.
Dominic Cummings pictured outside his London home yesterday.


thedailyexpress--2020-06-01--‘Disaster’ Corbyn was handed path to Number 10 but decided to freeze out only Scottish MP

Ian Murray said that he was frozen out by Mr Corbyn during his five-year leadership despite being the longest-serving Scottish Labour MP after being elected in 2010 .
Mr Murray , who is currently the only Labour MP in Scotland recently returned to the frontbench after Sir Keir Starmer was elected party leader .
Speaking to The Herald Scotland , the Shadow Scottish Secretary said that Labour ’ s revival in Scotland was crucial for it to return to Downing Street in 2024 .
He suggested the party would need to win 20 Scottish seats to put Sir Keir in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ biggest ever landslide to end 14 years in opposition .
It comes after the Labour Party suffered the worst General Election result since 1935 , losing 60 seats , including six in Scotland in last December ’ s election .
He said : “ After 2017 when we returned seven Scottish MPs , I said very clearly to Jeremy Corbyn there was a pathway to Downing St if he chose to take it and if he decided not to , then the public would ultimately have the final say on his leadership of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t be something he would find particularly pleasing .
“ Scotland is critically important because until you start winning seats back in Scotland , you can ’ t win.
” Mr Murray pointed out that if Labour returned only a single Scottish MP again in 2024 , it would need a record 13 percent swing to gain the necessary extra seats in the House of Commons required for a majority .
However , the party would require a lower swing of between 10 and 11 percent to win if Labour gained at least @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Edinburgh South MP said a double-digit number of Scottish seats was vital for the party to stand any chance of regaining power .
READ MORE : 'Labour 's 'Red Wall ' voted for Brexit - now let 's repay the trust' Labour secured 56 of the 72 Scottish seats in the 1997 election when Tony Blair won by a landslide , compared to its single seat now .
Mr Murray also took a swipe at the SNP and said that Labour had to layout its prospectus for a “ devolution revolution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” set out by the Nationalists to take Scotland out of the UK under IndyRef2 .
It comes after a recent poll showed that more than half of Scots want a second independence referendum in the next five years .
The Ipsos MORI survey for BBC Scotland found that 63 percent of people want another referendum , 34 percent within the next two years , 19 % in two to five years , and 10 % after the next five years .
Going forward , the MP said that Labour 's stance going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ No to independence and No to a second independence referendum.
” He pointed out that the SNP ’ s demand for a mandate to demand a second referendum if it won an overall majority in next year ’ s Holyrood election was “ ridiculous ” .
He argued : “ The mandate for Keir Starmer if he becomes PM in 2024 , would be to deliver on the manifesto commitment of the radical federalism he wants to try and achieve.
” The scheme of radical federalism would involve taking powers from Holyrood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scotland .

Question Time: Ian Murray clashes with panel after criticising SNP
Ian Murray said that he was frozen out by Mr Corbyn during his five-year leadership despite being the longest-serving Scottish Labour MP after being elected in 2010. Mr Murray, who is currently the only Labour MP in Scotland recently returned to the frontbench after Sir Keir Starmer was elected party leader.
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Speaking to The Herald Scotland, the Shadow Scottish Secretary said that Labour’s revival in Scotland was crucial for it to return to Downing Street in 2024. He suggested the party would need to win 20 Scottish seats to put Sir Keir in Downing Street as well as needing the biggest ever landslide to end 14 years in opposition. It comes after the Labour Party suffered the worst General Election result since 1935, losing 60 seats, including six in Scotland in last December’s election. He said: “After 2017 when we returned seven Scottish MPs, I said very clearly to Jeremy Corbyn there was a pathway to Downing St if he chose to take it and if he decided not to, then the public would ultimately have the final say on his leadership of the Labour Party and it wouldn’t be something he would find particularly pleasing.
Labour MP Ian Murray said that Corbyn was shocking for Labour.
Labour suffered it's worst election result since 1935 last year.
“Scotland is critically important because until you start winning seats back in Scotland, you can’t win.” Mr Murray pointed out that if Labour returned only a single Scottish MP again in 2024, it would need a record 13 percent swing to gain the necessary extra seats in the House of Commons required for a majority. However, the party would require a lower swing of between 10 and 11 percent to win if Labour gained at least 16 Scottish seats, the MP stressed. The Edinburgh South MP said a double-digit number of Scottish seats was vital for the party to stand any chance of regaining power. READ MORE: 'Labour's 'Red Wall' voted for Brexit - now let's repay the trust'
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Sir Keir Starmer is hoping to win 2024's general election.
Ian Murray also took a swipe at the SNP.
Labour secured 56 of the 72 Scottish seats in the 1997 election when Tony Blair won by a landslide, compared to its single seat now. Mr Murray also took a swipe at the SNP and said that Labour had to layout its prospectus for a “devolution revolution” to defeat the “extreme proposition” set out by the Nationalists to take Scotland out of the UK under IndyRef2. It comes after a recent poll showed that more than half of Scots want a second independence referendum in the next five years. The Ipsos MORI survey for BBC Scotland found that 63 percent of people want another referendum, 34 percent within the next two years, 19% in two to five years, and 10% after the next five years.
Ian Murray at the 2019 Edinburgh general election count.
Going forward, the MP said that Labour's stance going into the 2024 election was clear: “No to independence and No to a second independence referendum.” He pointed out that the SNP’s demand for a mandate to demand a second referendum if it won an overall majority in next year’s Holyrood election was “ridiculous”. He argued: “The mandate for Keir Starmer if he becomes PM in 2024, would be to deliver on the manifesto commitment of the radical federalism he wants to try and achieve.” The scheme of radical federalism would involve taking powers from Holyrood and giving them to local communities in Scotland.
Mr Murray was also critical of Boris Johnson.


thedailyexpress--2020-06-02--Brexit extension deadline: The four ways deadline could be EXTENDED

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Despite the ongoing effects of coronavirus , Brexit talks are pressing ahead , albeit with little progress being made as the UK and EU reach loggerheads .
The process of negotiating the UK 's way out of the EU still is n't over , despite the fact the country left the bloc earlier this year , just as coronavirus was first emerging in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the 'transition period ' for the UK leaving the EU .
This means the UK is still in the single market , and must still uphold the rights of UK and EU citizens under agreements such as freedom of movement .
The main objective for UK negotiators is to 'take back control ' , and Boris Johnson has refused to make any concessions in agreements and still wants a `` great relationship with our friends . ''
But talks continue to stall and time is running out for the EU and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a deal is not secured by December 31 of this year , the UK will exit the single market without a deal .

Brexit: Johnson may 'go soft' if Cummings leaves says Farage
Despite the ongoing effects of coronavirus, Brexit talks are pressing ahead, albeit with little progress being made as the UK and EU reach loggerheads. The process of negotiating the UK's way out of the EU still isn't over, despite the fact the country left the bloc earlier this year, just as coronavirus was first emerging in Europe.
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January 31 marked the beginning of the 'transition period' for the UK leaving the EU. This means the UK is still in the single market, and must still uphold the rights of UK and EU citizens under agreements such as freedom of movement. The main objective for UK negotiators is to 'take back control', and Boris Johnson has refused to make any concessions in agreements and still wants a "great relationship with our friends." But talks continue to stall and time is running out for the EU and the UK to negotiate a deal. If a deal is not secured by December 31 of this year, the UK will exit the single market without a deal.
Brexit talks: Time is running out for both to negotiate a deal
Brexit talks: Michel Barnier is reportedly exasperated with the UK's approach to negotiating
READ MORE Nigel Farage’s one-on-one Brexit meeting with Michel Barnier exposed UK and EU negotiators have remained in talks throughout the coronavirus crisis, but they are still struggling to agree on key issues, with reports that the EU's Chief Negotiator Michel Barnier is growing tired with the UK's no concession approach. Somewhat scarred by the 11th hour decisions that characterised the first phase of talks before January 31, an agreement was reached that an optional six month extension could be put in place - but this must be activated by the UK within the next month. This deadline, looming on June 30, is enshrined in EU law, meaning if the UK doesn't take the option, it's do or die until December 31. However, a new report by the Institute for Government has outlined several ways an extension could be agreed after the deadline if both countries found at a later date that the negotiation period has been too short.
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Brexit: Both sides have exchanged testy letters recently
Change the Withdrawal Agreement date It might seem overly simplistic - and it probably is. According to the report, the UK Government has the legal authority to change the agreement from its end. However, it’s not clear the European Union has the same power, not without jumping a few hoops first. The EU’s power is derived from the treaties and while the agreement can be amended to “correct errors, address omissions or other deficiencies”, it is not clear that this would fall under the scope. A ruling from the European Court of Justice would be required, making relying on this route unlikely. DON'T MISS
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READ MORE Nigel Farage issues dire prediction over crunch Brexit talks Create a new transition period If at first you don't succeed, try, try again. Creating a whole new agreement from scratch and binning the first one is one way interesting way the report suggests extending the transition period. One disadvantage of this approach would be to force negotiators to pause their talks on the future relationship to draw up this new treaty, simply to extend the time they have for the future relationship talks. The institute also says there are “significant political and legal risks”.
Brexit talks: A key summit will take place later this month
Create an implementation phase The UK and the EU could include an “implementation phase” in the future relationship treaty. This would only work if a future relationship treaty has been agreed this time round, but it would give time at the end if negotiators reached a decision but cut it pretty fine - something that seems quite likely to happen given the timeframe left. This scenario isn’t actually that unlikely – in October 2019 an extension was needed despite the deal being agreed. This gave the parliaments time to ratify the treaty and go over some elements. The institute suggests the implementation phase could be similar to the current one, or cover different things.


thedailyexpress--2020-06-02--Nigel Farage lashes out at China over coronavirus - 'We need to get TOUGH!'

The Brexit Party leader called for Britain to reduce its dependency on China .
Mr Farage told The Sydney Morning Herald : “ The cat ’ s out of the bag , we now know what we 're dealing with .
`` The truth of it is if we are really going to get tough with China and we want to try and hurt China 's ability to become this global superpower then we 're going to have to face the facts that in the short term this will cost us too .
`` It ’ s not something we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it isn ’ t cost-free but , in terms of strategy , in terms of geopolitics , this is the biggest geopolitical struggle since the fall of the Berlin Wall 30 years ago . ''
Mr Farage dismissed claims the UK could be more reliant on China following Brexit .
He said : `` In fact , if we stayed in the EU we would have kept ourselves more beholden to China because that 's what the EU intend to do . ''
Mr Farage also warned the UK ’ s relationship with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Brexit Party returns to frontline politics .
He said : `` And of course if the Brexit Party does have to reactivate you can rest assured that China will be up there in one of the top two or three policies .
READ MORE : Farage hints at secret Brexit reason Boris still wants Cummings around '' With my base , the debate on China has started by it 's still got a long way to go . ''
Mr Farage backed Donald Trump in the upcoming US presidential election to stop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
The Brexit Party leader said : `` If he was n't there who would take the lead on this ?
Certainly not , certainly not Joe Biden .
DO N'T MISS Nigel Farage gobsmacked as devout Brexiteer delivers stunning verdict [ VIDEO ] China warning : Nearly half of Britons feel threatened by rise of China [ INSIGHT ] Coronavirus map LIVE : ONS publishes major new lockdown analysis [ LIVE BLOG ] “ And Australia on its own is going to find it very difficult to do it ; Boris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a lot of kicking to do it ; and the European Union are , I 'm afraid , just appeasers of China at every level .
`` In terms of stopping China effectively taking over the world - whatever people think his faults may be - the reelection of Trump is actually central to it . ''
It comes after Mr Farage called for a boycott of Chinese goods in a Twitter post last month .

Brexit: Nigel Farage warns of Huawei ‘risks’ for US trade deal
The Brexit Party leader called for Britain to reduce its dependency on China. Mr Farage told The Sydney Morning Herald: “The cat’s out of the bag, we now know what we're dealing with.
"The truth of it is if we are really going to get tough with China and we want to try and hurt China's ability to become this global superpower then we're going to have to face the facts that in the short term this will cost us too. "It’s not something we can do that’s cost-free; it isn’t cost-free but, in terms of strategy, in terms of geopolitics, this is the biggest geopolitical struggle since the fall of the Berlin Wall 30 years ago." Mr Farage dismissed claims the UK could be more reliant on China following Brexit.
Nigel Farage has warned the UK needs to take a tougher stance with China
The Brexit Party leader called for Britain to reduce its dependency on China
He said: "In fact, if we stayed in the EU we would have kept ourselves more beholden to China because that's what the EU intend to do." Mr Farage also warned the UK’s relationship with China would be a key policy if the Brexit Party returns to frontline politics. He said: "And of course if the Brexit Party does have to reactivate you can rest assured that China will be up there in one of the top two or three policies. READ MORE: Farage hints at secret Brexit reason Boris still wants Cummings around
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Mr Farage dismissed claims the UK could be more reliant on China following Brexit
Mr Farage backed Donald Trump in the upcoming US presidential election to stop Beijing "effectively taking over the world"
“And Australia on its own is going to find it very difficult to do it; Boris Johnson's going to need a hell of a lot of kicking to do it; and the European Union are, I'm afraid, just appeasers of China at every level. "In terms of stopping China effectively taking over the world - whatever people think his faults may be - the reelection of Trump is actually central to it." It comes after Mr Farage called for a boycott of Chinese goods in a Twitter post last month.
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thedailyexpress--2020-06-02--Jacob Rees-Mogg attacked for bizarre Westminster plan - 'They think COVID's just sniffles'

In what has been dubbed the `` Rees-Mogg conga '' by Labour 's Chief Whip Nick Brown , the former chairman of the pro-Brexit European Research Group is pushing for a system which critics claim will result in a kilometre-long queue as members observe social distancing rules which will keep them two metres apart .
Robert Halfon , Tory MP for Harlow , who has cerebral palsy and who is therefore in the shielding group , today launched an angry attack on the plan , which will preclude him for voting .
He said : `` Clearly in this case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are being harsh and unbending .
`` The MPs who genuinely can not come in , our democratic rights are being snipped away and we 're being turned into parliamentary eunuchs .
`` They take the attitude of President Bolsonaro that COVID-19 is just the sniffles and , if you ca n't come in , tough luck , we do n't care .
And that to me is entirely wrong . ''
Mr Halfon added : `` Not only will the hundreds of MPs , who for one reason or another will not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are affected by COVID-19 , will not only be denied their fundamental rights but their constituents will not have a voice in Parliament because they will not be able to vote .
`` I genuinely am mystified why they will not even allow proxy voting . ''
Mr Halfon was far from alone in criticising the proposals .
Former Environment Secretary Theresa Villiers told the BBC : `` The obvious most difficult practical issue is voting , and clearly , if there is going to be a kilometre-long queue , we have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The jig 's up !
EU faces trade loss - expert suggests no deal incoming Margaret Hodge , Labour MP for Barking and Dagenham , tweeted last night : `` Tomorrow the Govt wants 650 MPs to stand in a giant queue to vote on how the Commons makes decisions from now on .
`` As somebody in the 'vulnerable ' category , I am unable to join them .
`` I am furious that for the first time in my 25 years as an MP I am being denied the right to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wilson tweeted : `` Thanks to @ Jacob_Rees_Mogg , I 'm heading back into Westminster , putting my husband who 's on immuno-suppressants at greater risk , despite virtual parl working well .
`` I '' ll be joining 1km+ queue of MPs to vote to keep remote participation so everyone can represent their constituents . ''
The Politico website has suggested Mr Rees-Mogg 's proposals have come as a surprise to everyone , with one official saying : `` Nobody in Government knew about this until it was announced . ''

Jacob Rees-Mogg announces plan to bring MPs back to Commons
In what has been dubbed the "Rees-Mogg conga" by Labour's Chief Whip Nick Brown, the former chairman of the pro-Brexit European Research Group is pushing for a system which critics claim will result in a kilometre-long queue as members observe social distancing rules which will keep them two metres apart. Robert Halfon, Tory MP for Harlow, who has cerebral palsy and who is therefore in the shielding group, today launched an angry attack on the plan, which will preclude him for voting. He said: "Clearly in this case sadly Jacob and the powers that be are being harsh and unbending.
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They take the attitude of President Bolsonaro that COVID-19 is just the sniffles Robert Halfon MP
"The MPs who genuinely cannot come in, our democratic rights are being snipped away and we're being turned into parliamentary eunuchs. "They take the attitude of President Bolsonaro that COVID-19 is just the sniffles and, if you can't come in, tough luck, we don't care. And that to me is entirely wrong." Mr Halfon added: "Not only will the hundreds of MPs, who for one reason or another will not be able to come in because they are affected by COVID-19, will not only be denied their fundamental rights but their constituents will not have a voice in Parliament because they will not be able to vote. Back Express.co.uk's NHS Heroes campaign
Robert Halfon said Jacob Rees-Mogg's plan will leave him unable to vote
Robert Halfon, who has cerebral palsy, speaks via video link during a recent debate
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"I genuinely am mystified why they will not even allow proxy voting." Mr Halfon was far from alone in criticising the proposals. Former Environment Secretary Theresa Villiers told the BBC: "The obvious most difficult practical issue is voting, and clearly, if there is going to be a kilometre-long queue, we have to find another system. JUST IN: The jig's up! EU faces trade loss - expert suggests no deal incoming
Jacob Rees-Mogg speaks in the council chamber
Labour's Margaret Hodge tweeted about the issue
Margaret Hodge said she was "furious" at being unable to vote
Margaret Hodge, Labour MP for Barking and Dagenham, tweeted last night: "Tomorrow the Govt wants 650 MPs to stand in a giant queue to vote on how the Commons makes decisions from now on. "As somebody in the 'vulnerable' category, I am unable to join them. "I am furious that for the first time in my 25 years as an MP I am being denied the right to vote!"
Current social distancing rules
Liberal Democrat MP Munira Wilson tweeted: "Thanks to @Jacob_Rees_Mogg, I'm heading back into Westminster, putting my husband who's on immuno-suppressants at greater risk, despite virtual parl working well. "I"ll be joining 1km+ queue of MPs to vote to keep remote participation so everyone can represent their constituents." The Politico website has suggested Mr Rees-Mogg's proposals have come as a surprise to everyone, with one official saying: "Nobody in Government knew about this until it was announced."
Robert Halfon is MP for Harlow in Essex


thedailyexpress--2020-06-02--China warning: Alarm bells over global conflict - MP warns of sick plot to exploit vaccine

Mr Ellwood , Tory MP for Bournemouth East , made his prediction after Liu Xiaoming , China 's ambassador to Britain , suggested his country was making significant progress on the development of a jab - and would be willing to share it with the rest of the world .
He also referred to today 's Defence Select Committee inquiry , which will consider among other issues the rise of China and the security of 5G , with US Republican Senator Tom Cotton among those due to give evidence .
In response to an interview with Liu on Sky News @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be willing to share a vaccine , Mr Ellwood tweeted : `` I predicted this .
`` China will leverage vaccine rollout to further its global political influence . ''
He subsequently told Express.co.uk : `` This latest development of the coronavirus vaccine , promising only to direct its supply chains to developing countries feeds into this very dangerous chain of events , which is already leading to a trade war and a cold war , and could lead to conflict in the future . ''
Mr Ellwood said the development of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ developed by China would therefore come with `` strings attached '' , with Beijing effectively seeking to `` capitalise on the crisis '' .
He added : `` It 's interesting because Britain is actually hosting a major event tomorrow on vaccine collaboration and China is not participating .
`` This is affecting everybody across the world , it is an adversary we are all up against , and the world should be coming together .
`` Instead what we are actually seeing , which is very dangerous indeed , is a worrying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actually is . ''
During the programme , After the Pandemic , which was screened last night , Liu said : `` President Xi made a firm commitment , during a World Health Assembly , that once production is available , China want to make it for the public good , and make it especially accessible and available to developing countries .
`` China is now among the most advanced countries in terms of vaccine research and now we are in phase 2 , where we have high clinical trial .
`` But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the world - in fact , China is also working with the UK and with other countries including the United States on the vaccine . ''
His comments tie in with China 's Belt and Road Initiative , a global strategy adopted by China in 2013 involving infrastructure development and investments in almost 70 countries in Asia , Africa and Europe .
Speaking last month , Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said far from derailing the project , the pandemic will `` strengthen and reenergise '' BRI cooperation .
In a series @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ellwood 's point , he explained : `` Indeed COVID-19 has affected Belt and Road cooperation to some extent but the impact is temporary and limited .
“ China will actively expand international cooperation on public health , and establish pandemic control mechanisms with more nations .
“ There will be more such cooperation along the belt and road .
“ The potential of the belt and road comes from constantly opening up new areas of cooperation .
`` After the epidemic , the desire of countries to develop the economy and protect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the demand for cooperation in the field of public health will also increase significantly .
“ China will work with the countries along the route to vigorously promote the construction of the ‘ healthy silk road ’ .
” Today 's event at the House of Commons , details of which were also tweeted by Mr Ellwood , will also hear from former US Representative Mike Rogers , and retired Brigadier General Robert Spalding .
A Chinese-made coronavirus vaccine could be ready for market as early as the end of this year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Administration Commission ( SASAC ) said in a social media post last week .

China 'will make vaccine a public good' says Liu Xiaoming
Mr Ellwood, Tory MP for Bournemouth East, said tensions could spiral into conflict after Liu Xiaoming, China's ambassador to Britain, suggested his country was making significant progress on the development of a jab - and would be willing to share it with the rest of the world. He told Express.co.uk he feared the vaccine could push already-tense relations between the US and the West to the brink.
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This latest development of the coronavirus vaccine, promising only to direct its supply chains to developing countries feeds into this very dangerous chain of events, which is already leading to a trade war and a cold war, and could lead to conflict in th Tobias Ellwood
He also referred to today's Defence Select Committee inquiry, which will consider among other issues the rise of China and the security of 5G, with US Republican Senator Tom Cotton among those due to give evidence. In response to an interview with Liu on Sky News yesterday in which he said his country would be willing to share a vaccine, Mr Ellwood tweeted: "I predicted this. China will leverage vaccine rollout to further its global political influence." He told Express.co.uk: "This latest development of the coronavirus vaccine, promising only to direct its supply chains to developing countries feeds into this very dangerous chain of events, which is already leading to a trade war and a cold war, and could lead to conflict in the future." Mr Ellwood said the development of a vaccine was problematic because any treatment developed by China would therefore come with "strings attached", with Beijing effectively seeking to "capitalise on the crisis". He added: "It's interesting because Britain is actually hosting a major event tomorrow on vaccine collaboration and China is not participating. Back Express.co.uk's NHS Heroes campaign
Tobias Ellwood has issued a warning about China
Liu Xiaoming, China's UK ambassador
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"This is affecting everybody across the world, it is an adversary we are all up against, and the world should be coming together. "Instead what we are actually seeing, which is very dangerous indeed, is a worrying indication of just how fragile our world actually is." During the programme, After the Pandemic, which was screened last night, Liu said: "President Xi made a firm commitment, during a World Health Assembly, that once production is available, China want to make it for the public good, and make it especially accessible and available to developing countries. "China is now among the most advanced countries in terms of vaccine research and now we are in phase 2, where we have high clinical trial.
Tobias Ellwood's tweet
"But we want to share with the rest of the world - in fact, China is also working with the UK and with other countries including the United States on the vaccine." His comments tie in with China's Belt and Road Initiative, a global strategy adopted by China in 2013 involving infrastructure development and investments in almost 70 countries in Asia, Africa and Europe. Speaking last month, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said far from derailing the project, the pandemic will "strengthen and reenergise" BRI cooperation.
Senator Tom Cotton will speak to the committee today
The race is on to find a coronavirus vaccine
In a series of remarks which seem to underline Mr Ellwood's point, he explained: "Indeed COVID-19 has affected Belt and Road cooperation to some extent but the impact is temporary and limited. “China will actively expand international cooperation on public health, and establish pandemic control mechanisms with more nations. “There will be more such cooperation along the belt and road. “The potential of the belt and road comes from constantly opening up new areas of cooperation.
Coronavirus cases worldwide
"After the epidemic, the desire of countries to develop the economy and protect people's livelihoods will be stronger, and the demand for cooperation in the field of public health will also increase significantly. “China will work with the countries along the route to vigorously promote the construction of the ‘healthy silk road’.” Today's event at the House of Commons, details of which were also tweeted by Mr Ellwood, will also hear from former US Representative Mike Rogers, and retired Brigadier General Robert Spalding. A Chinese-made coronavirus vaccine could be ready for market as early as the end of this year, China’s State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission (SASAC) said in a social media post last week.
A map of China's Belt and Road initiative


thedailyexpress--2020-06-02--'Tear it up Gove, we're leaving!' Britons fury after Sadiq Khan demands Brexit extension

The pro-Remain London Mayor wrote to the Cabinet Office Minister insisting the “ last thing ” the UK needs is “ more chaos and uncertainty ” during the coronavirus crisis as he called for an extension to the end of 2020 deadline .
The intervention sparked a backlash on the Daily Express Facebook page .
One reader commented : “ This man must not be Mayor of London any longer - he is not representing the people , only himself and other Remoaners !
!
” Another said : “ No just get it done with now , I for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vote was made the choice of majority was leave so get on with it.
” A third wrote : “ Since when does the mayor of London run this country .
We voted out , the government was voted in to get it done .
Concentrate on sorting your city out.
” Another added : “ Tear it up Gove !
We are leaving !
” A fifth said : “ Nothing to do with you khan.
” In his letter to Mr Gove on Monday , Mr Khan said : “ No @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the key negotiations would take place at a time when all governments are rightly focused on fighting a global pandemic .
“ The last thing the country needs as it tries to find a way back from the devastation wreaked by coronavirus is more chaos and uncertainty .
READ MORE : Brexiteers lash out at EU ’ s ‘ absurd ’ demand UK remains ‘ subservient ’ “ I urge the Government to put political ideology aside and pursue the pragmatic route of seeking an extension to the negotiations so that we and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Covid-19.
” The London Mayor said coronavirus is the “ biggest health , social and economic emergency ” since the Second World War .
He continued : “ Further disruption , in the form of tariffs , red tape and new immigration rules when we leave the single market and customs union at the end of the year , would be needless and hazardous .
DO N'T MISS 'Just get us OUT , Boris ! '
Furious Brexiteers reject two year delay [ POLL ] Brexit extension deadline : The four ways @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit victory !
UK unveils new plan to overthrow EU after transition [ INSIGHT ] “ Close regulatory alignment with the EU has never been more vital to protect our economy and support its recovery from the impacts of Covid-19.
” Mr Khan added that an extension to the December 31 2020 deadline is “ urgently needed ” .
He said : “ The Government ’ s negotiations with the EU and other countries are highly unlikely to progress towards meaningful results and agreements while the pandemic continues .
“ An extension to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to give businesses and public services some certainty that they won ’ t face another cliff edge in six months ’ time .

Brexit: David Frost insists UK ‘will not extend transition period’
The pro-Remain London Mayor wrote to the Cabinet Office Minister insisting the “last thing” the UK needs is “more chaos and uncertainty” during the coronavirus crisis as he called for an extension to the end of 2020 deadline. The intervention sparked a backlash on the Daily Express Facebook page.
One reader commented: “This man must not be Mayor of London any longer - he is not representing the people, only himself and other Remoaners!!” Another said: “No just get it done with now, I for one am sick of waiting, the vote was made the choice of majority was leave so get on with it.” A third wrote: “Since when does the mayor of London run this country. We voted out, the government was voted in to get it done. Concentrate on sorting your city out.” Another added: “Tear it up Gove! We are leaving !”
Sadiq Khan demanded an extension to the Brexit transition period in a letter to Michael Gove
The fourth round of trade talks between the UK and the EU take place this week
A fifth said: “Nothing to do with you khan.” In his letter to Mr Gove on Monday, Mr Khan said: “No one anticipated when voting for Brexit that the key negotiations would take place at a time when all governments are rightly focused on fighting a global pandemic. “The last thing the country needs as it tries to find a way back from the devastation wreaked by coronavirus is more chaos and uncertainty. READ MORE: Brexiteers lash out at EU’s ‘absurd’ demand UK remains ‘subservient’
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Negotiations are continuing remotely during the coronavirus pandemic
“I urge the Government to put political ideology aside and pursue the pragmatic route of seeking an extension to the negotiations so that we and our European partners can focus on recovery from Covid-19.” The London Mayor said coronavirus is the “biggest health, social and economic emergency” since the Second World War. He continued: “Further disruption, in the form of tariffs, red tape and new immigration rules when we leave the single market and customs union at the end of the year, would be needless and hazardous. DON'T MISS
'Just get us OUT, Boris!' Furious Brexiteers reject two year delay [POLL]
Brexit extension deadline: The four ways deadline could be EXTENDED [ANALYSIS]
Brexit victory! UK unveils new plan to overthrow EU after transition [INSIGHT]
Boris Johnson has repeatedly ruled out extending the transition period despite claims the timeframe is too tight
“Close regulatory alignment with the EU has never been more vital to protect our economy and support its recovery from the impacts of Covid-19.” Mr Khan added that an extension to the December 31 2020 deadline is “urgently needed”. He said: “The Government’s negotiations with the EU and other countries are highly unlikely to progress towards meaningful results and agreements while the pandemic continues. “An extension to the transition period is now urgently needed to give businesses and public services some certainty that they won’t face another cliff edge in six months’ time.
The PM’s Europe adviser David Frost insisted Britain would reject any request from the EU to push back the deadline
“Otherwise the Government risks undermining the unprecedented steps it has taken to protect jobs and livelihoods, by prolonging uncertainty about our economy and the terms on which future trade will be conducted.” The fourth round of trade talks between the UK and the EU take place this week. Negotiations are continuing remotely during the coronavirus pandemic. Boris Johnson has repeatedly ruled out extending the transition period despite claims the timeframe is too tight.
Trending


thedailyexpress--2020-06-02--Boris Johnson will demand UK judges have new powers to refuse EU requests

The terms of the new treaty will be discussed during a crunch round of trade talks with Brussels set to start today .
The UK will request its courts hold more powers to decline EU extradition petitions than under the European Arrest Warrant ( EAW ) system it must exit at the end of the year .
Warrants could be refused to prevent long waits for pre-trial detention , under the British proposal .
They could also be dismissed if the UK legal system estimates the cost of an arrest exceeds the severity of the crime .
On the other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU courts have the power to dismiss UK extradition requests for people facing whole life sentences unless Britain conducts a review on the punishment either on request or , at the latest , 20 years after the verdict .
It also petitions that judges refute extradition requests if they consider they are instigated by the person ’ s “ sex , race , religion , ethnic origin , nationality , language , political opinions or sexual orientation.
” Bilateral extradition deals were replaced by the EAW between nations with a much more rapid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rather than politicians .
It was settled , with Britain ’ s backing , two months after the 9/11 attack .
From a Brexit perspective , performing arrests mandated by foreign magistrates was an attack on national sovereignty .
If the UK Government does not allow the European Court of Justice to act in Britain after Brexit , a new extradition system will need to be settled before the transition period ends .
READ MORE : Boris Johnson gives Dominic Cummings final warning after lockdown row If a new system is not agreed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK will rely on 1956 laws for extradition which are considerably slower .
Also by December 31 , the two sides must settle a trade agreement .
The last round of discussions resulted in a deadlock over EU ’ s demand for level playing field guarantees and use of UK fishing waters in the current situation .
Boris Johnson will attend this last round before appearing at a June “ high level meeting ” with EU leaders .
DO N'T MISS : Coronavirus vaccine hunt could be harmed by falling infection rate [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tory support plummets after Cummings row [ UPDATES ] Raab warns 'specific ' UK regions could be plunged back into lockdown [ INSIGHT ] The summit will assess progress on the trade talks and it will be the last before the July deadline to appeal for an extension .
`` In relation to the level-playing field the EU has insisted on including a set of novel and unbalanced proposals which would bind the UK to EU law or standards or impose control over our domestic legal regimes , '' the prime minister 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as the EU recognises that we will not conclude an agreement on that basis , we will be able to make progress . ''

Brexit: EU are in 'terrible trouble' over extension says Davis
The terms of the new treaty will be discussed during a crunch round of trade talks with Brussels set to start today. The UK will request its courts hold more powers to decline EU extradition petitions than under the European Arrest Warrant (EAW) system it must exit at the end of the year.
Trending
Warrants could be refused to prevent long waits for pre-trial detention, under the British proposal.
They could also be dismissed if the UK legal system estimates the cost of an arrest exceeds the severity of the crime.
On the other hand, the European Commission demands that EU courts have the power to dismiss UK extradition requests for people facing whole life sentences unless Britain conducts a review on the punishment either on request or, at the latest, 20 years after the verdict.
It also petitions that judges refute extradition requests if they consider they are instigated by the person’s “sex, race, religion, ethnic origin, nationality, language, political opinions or sexual orientation.”
UK braces for clash with EU over new treaty as trade talks resume
Bilateral extradition deals were replaced by the EAW between nations with a much more rapid system were the judiciary was involved directly rather than politicians.
It was settled, with Britain’s backing, two months after the 9/11 attack.
From a Brexit perspective, performing arrests mandated by foreign magistrates was an attack on national sovereignty.
If the UK Government does not allow the European Court of Justice to act in Britain after Brexit, a new extradition system will need to be settled before the transition period ends. READ MORE: Boris Johnson gives Dominic Cummings final warning after lockdown row
New treaty could see UK law override European arrest warrants
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If a new system is not agreed upon before January 1 that means the UK will rely on 1956 laws for extradition which are considerably slower.
Also by December 31, the two sides must settle a trade agreement.
The last round of discussions resulted in a deadlock over EU’s demand for level playing field guarantees and use of UK fishing waters in the current situation.
Boris Johnson will attend this last round before appearing at a June “high level meeting” with EU leaders.
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Coronavirus vaccine hunt could be harmed by falling infection rate [REVEALED]
Disaster for Boris Johnson as Tory support plummets after Cummings row [UPDATES]
Raab warns 'specific' UK regions could be plunged back into lockdown [INSIGHT]
The last discussions came to a deadlock over EU’s demands over the use of UK fishing waters
The summit will assess progress on the trade talks and it will be the last before the July deadline to appeal for an extension. "In relation to the level-playing field the EU has insisted on including a set of novel and unbalanced proposals which would bind the UK to EU law or standards or impose control over our domestic legal regimes," the prime minister's official spokesman said. "As soon as the EU recognises that we will not conclude an agreement on that basis, we will be able to make progress."
If a new system is not agreed upon before January 1 that means the UK will rely on 1956 laws


thedailyexpress--2020-06-03--'I'm fed up!' Furious Blackford explodes at Tory jeering as he's branded 'self-indulgent'

Jacob Rees-Mogg has introduced plans to end remote voting in Parliament , which was introduced to enable social distancing amid the coronavirus pandemic .
The Leader of the House of Commons justified the idea , claiming that total numbers on the estate “ will not increase significantly ” , with MPs ’ staff continuing to work from home .
However , the debate ground to a halt when SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford flew off the handle at the Government over jeering from Tory MPs .
Mr Blackford interrupted his speech to say : `` I 'm getting a little @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are coming from opposite about this being indulgent .
`` I 'll tell you what 's being indulgent .
`` It 's MPs being dragged here when we know that the hybrid system workers .
`` It 's MPs being risked being disenfranchised by the Government .
That 's what 's self-indulgent . ''
READ MORE : SNP shamed by Deputy Speaker as Scottish MP tells Boris to 'shut up' He continued : `` When MPs are shielding and unable to travel to Parliament , we 're experiencing a democratic deficit of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is wholly wrong that we can be in this position .
`` I hope we can achieve a resolution that will see us return to a hybrid Parliament that will allow all our colleagues to participate .
`` We should be in a position that we can do our jobs and protect everyone else by staying at home , by doing the right thing . ''
The senior SNP politician also snapped at his opponents earlier in the debate when he was mocked for complaining about the time socially distant in-person voting would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` It is a bit ridiculous that members of the Government bench think this is funny .
`` Really , you think this is funny ?
This is serious because we 're talking about the lives of our constituents . ''
DO N'T MISS Sturgeon accuses England of 'under-reporting ' deaths as she 's grilled [ INTERVIEW ] Sunak issues stern response amid fears Sturgeon could break ranks [ WARNING ] Sturgeon shamed as Scottish care homes forced to accept PPE donations [ FURY ]

Ian Blackford hits out at Tories over ‘self-indulgent’ remarks
Jacob Rees-Mogg has introduced plans to end remote voting in Parliament, which was introduced to enable social distancing amid the coronavirus pandemic. The Leader of the House of Commons justified the idea, claiming that total numbers on the estate “will not increase significantly”, with MPs’ staff continuing to work from home. However, the debate ground to a halt when SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford flew off the handle at the Government over jeering from Tory MPs.
Trending
Mr Blackford interrupted his speech to say: "I'm getting a little bit fed up of the remarks which are coming from opposite about this being indulgent. "I'll tell you what's being indulgent. "It's MPs being dragged here when we know that the hybrid system works. "It's MPs being risked being disenfranchised by the Government. That's what's self-indulgent." READ MORE: SNP shamed by Deputy Speaker as Scottish MP tells Boris to 'shut up'
"It's MPs being risked being disenfranchised by the Government. That's what's self-indulgent."
Jacob Rees-Mogg has introduced plans to end remote voting in parliament.
He continued: "When MPs are shielding and unable to travel to Parliament, we're experiencing a democratic deficit of the UK Government. "I believe it is wholly wrong that we can be in this position. "I hope we can achieve a resolution that will see us return to a hybrid Parliament that will allow all our colleagues to participate. "We should be in a position that we can do our jobs and protect everyone else by staying at home, by doing the right thing."
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"I believe it is wholly wrong that we can be in this position."
Dominic Cummings ‘should have resigned’ says Ian Blackford
The senior SNP politician also snapped at his opponents earlier in the debate when he was mocked for complaining about the time socially distant in-person voting would take. He told the House: "It is a bit ridiculous that members of the Government bench think this is funny. "Really, you think this is funny? This is serious because we're talking about the lives of our constituents." DON'T MISS
Sturgeon accuses England of 'under-reporting' deaths as she's grilled [INTERVIEW]
Sunak issues stern response amid fears Sturgeon could break ranks [WARNING]
Sturgeon shamed as Scottish care homes forced to accept PPE donations [FURY]
UK stages of easing lockdown


thedailyexpress--2020-06-02--'Get lost Nicola!' Britons furious as Sturgeon begs Boris to 'think again' on Brexit delay

Nicola Sturgeon has pleaded with the UK Government to seek a `` sensible '' extension to the Brexit transition period , which is due to end on December 31 , 2020 .
Scotland 's First Minister suggested a majority of Britons , would consider backing a move to postpone the withdrawal from the single market and customs union during the current coronavirus pandemic .
Asked about her views on an extension during her daily briefing on Tuesday , the SNP leader said : `` My views on a no deal Brexit are well-known and my views on the UK Government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit at the end of this year , regardless of everything we ’ re dealing with , is that it is deeply irresponsible and reckless .
`` We ’ d make an already acutely difficult situation economically much , much more worse .
`` So I would say very directly to the UK to think again and do what I think the majority of people would probably think is sensible in the midst of a global health crisis .
`` It ’ s not to compound and exacerbate , but it is to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sensible .
Whether or not the Government will do that , you ’ d have to ask them .
`` They appear to be pretty resolute in their refusal to do that but I hope common sense prevails . ''
But the plea from Ms Sturgeon has sparked a furious reaction from Britons on the Express Facebook page , who have demanded the SNP leader accept the transition period will be ending at the end of this year .
Dennis Harris said : `` Brexit is done .
The transitional period on 31st @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Give it a rest Sturgeon and the rest of the remoaners .
You lost all the Brexit arguments .
Accept it - there will be no extension beyond the 31st December . ''
Sheila Waller raged : `` Sturgeon , you do not represent the majority of Scotland !
Do n't you get it !
`` You 're not liked , you 're not popular , you have a very skewed idea of your own self importance !
`` You are part of the UK .
Do as you 're told .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Burton wrote : `` Nicola Sturgeon , get lost .
You 're only interested in becoming the next Queen of Scotland .
God help Scotland if that ever happens .
`` The British people , which includes Scotland , voted to come out .
DO N'T MISS Nicola Sturgeon pleads with Boris to 'think again ' and ask extension [ COMMENT ] Nicola Sturgeon and Emmanuel Macron 's plot to stop Brexit exposed [ ANALYSIS ] How Andrew Neil exposed ‘ time wasting on independence ' [ INSIGHT ] '' So get off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in something that does not now concern you . ''
Berty Smith accused Remainers of plotting one last desperate bid to delay the UK 's departure from the EU and still not being able to accept the referendum result from four years ago .
He said : `` It 's been almost 4 years since the UK voted to leave the EU .
`` These remoaners are getting desperate as they know it 's last chance to delay Brexit and come up with something else to delay it next and next time again @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she would campaign for Scotland to join the EU should the country ever succeed in becoming independent from the rest of the UK .
Last month , responding to questions on whether Scotland could become a member of the bloc after Brexit , European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said : “ Any European State , which respects and promotes the values of the EU , may apply to become a member of the Union.
” Although the EU figurehead stated Scotland could potentially join the bloc , she did not express @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Article 49 of the Treaty of Europe states any country representing the values of the EU can become a member .

Nicola Sturgeon labels UK’s Brexit extension refusal ‘reckless’
Nicola Sturgeon has pleaded with the UK Government to seek a "sensible" extension to the Brexit transition period, which is due to end on December 31, 2020. Scotland's First Minister suggested a majority of Britons, would consider backing a move to postpone the withdrawal from the single market and customs union during the current coronavirus pandemic. Asked about her views on an extension during her daily briefing on Tuesday, the SNP leader said: "My views on a no deal Brexit are well-known and my views on the UK Government ploughing ahead with a potential no deal Brexit at the end of this year, regardless of everything we’re dealing with, is that it is deeply irresponsible and reckless.
Trending
"We’d make an already acutely difficult situation economically much, much more worse. "So I would say very directly to the UK to think again and do what I think the majority of people would probably think is sensible in the midst of a global health crisis. "It’s not to compound and exacerbate, but it is to seek an extension which I think is sensible. Whether or not the Government will do that, you’d have to ask them. "They appear to be pretty resolute in their refusal to do that but I hope common sense prevails."
Brexit news: Britons have reacted furiously to comments made by Nicola Sturgeon
Brexit news: Nicola Sturgeon urged the UK Government to back down from not extending the transition period
But the plea from Ms Sturgeon has sparked a furious reaction from Britons on the Express Facebook page, who have demanded the SNP leader accept the transition period will be ending at the end of this year. Dennis Harris said: "Brexit is done. The transitional period on 31st December 2020 is enshrined in law. "Give it a rest Sturgeon and the rest of the remoaners. You lost all the Brexit arguments. Accept it - there will be no extension beyond the 31st December." Sheila Waller raged: "Sturgeon, you do not represent the majority of Scotland! Don't you get it! READ MORE: Coronavirus map LIVE: UK announces 324 new deaths
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Brexit news: Scotland's First Minister lashed out at the UK Government
Brexit news: Boris Johnson has insisted the UK will not be extending the transition period
Brexit news: Michel Barnier said the EU is open to extending the transition period by up to two years
"So get off your high horse and stop getting involved in something that does not now concern you." Berty Smith accused Remainers of plotting one last desperate bid to delay the UK's departure from the EU and still not being able to accept the referendum result from four years ago. He said: "It's been almost 4 years since the UK voted to leave the EU. "These remoaners are getting desperate as they know it's last chance to delay Brexit and come up with something else to delay it next and next time again."
Brexit news: The deadline for extending the transition period is June 30
Ms Sturgeon has previously suggested she would campaign for Scotland to join the EU should the country ever succeed in becoming independent from the rest of the UK. Last month, responding to questions on whether Scotland could become a member of the bloc after Brexit, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said: “Any European State, which respects and promotes the values of the EU, may apply to become a member of the Union.” Although the EU figurehead stated Scotland could potentially join the bloc, she did not express a view on any future membership application. Article 49 of the Treaty of Europe states any country representing the values of the EU can become a member.
Brexit news: The UK and EU are locked in talks over a trade deal


thedailyexpress--2020-06-02--Jacob Rees-Mogg battles furious Tory rebellion as 'frustrated' MPs slam 'absurd' new plan

Jacob Rees-Mogg has introduced plans to end remote voting in Parliament , which was introduced to enable social distancing amid the coronavirus pandemic .
The Leader of the House of Commons justified the idea , claiming that total numbers on the estate “ will not increase significantly ” , with MPs ’ staff continuing to work from home .
Tory MP Karen Bradley put forward amendments which would allow those MPs not able to travel to Westminster to keep participating in debates via video link and to vote remotely .
She told the House : `` I have to say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for me .
`` I do not like being badged as a rebel on House business .
`` I 'm also determined that we will get back into a fully physical Parliament as soon as possible .
`` Last night , I had a conversation with the MP for Harlow , Robert Halfon . ''
READ MORE : Antibody tests to be rolled out but Hancock admits huge flaw Ms Bradley continued : `` He wanted to be here today , but his doctor has advised him that he must not for his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that we decided today to disenfranchise him completely seems to me to be absurd .
`` I know how frustrated he is by this .
`` I have every sympathy with the desire to get back to fully physical voting . ''

Jacob Rees-Mogg grilled on Commons plan by Karen Bradley
Jacob Rees-Mogg has introduced plans to end remote voting in Parliament, which was introduced to enable social distancing amid the coronavirus pandemic. The Leader of the House of Commons justified the idea, claiming that total numbers on the estate “will not increase significantly”, with MPs’ staff continuing to work from home. Tory MP Karen Bradley put forward amendments which would allow those MPs not able to travel to Westminster to keep participating in debates via video link and to vote remotely.
Trending
She told the House: "I have to say, this is a very uncomfortable day for me. "I do not like being badged as a rebel on House business. "I'm also determined that we will get back into a fully physical Parliament as soon as possible. "Last night, I had a conversation with the MP for Harlow, Robert Halfon." READ MORE: Antibody tests to be rolled out but Hancock admits huge flaw
Jacob Rees-Mogg battles furious Tory rebellion as 'frustrated' MPs slam 'absurd' new plan
Tory MP Karen Bradley put forward amendments.
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Ms Bradley continued: "He wanted to be here today, but his doctor has advised him that he must not for his own health. "So the idea that we decided today to disenfranchise him completely seems to me to be absurd. "I know how frustrated he is by this. "I have every sympathy with the desire to get back to fully physical voting."
"I have every sympathy with the desire to get back to fully physical voting."
Jacob Rees-Mogg announces plan to bring MPs back to Commons
UK stages of easing lockdown


thedailyexpress--2020-06-02--Brexit plot DESTROYED: Remainers pleading for delay shut down by Tory MP 'Answer is no!'

The European Union 's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier has written to UK opposition party leaders to say Brussels is open to the idea of an extension to the transition period by up to two years .
But this was immediately slapped down by both Boris Johnson and Mr Barnier 's UK counterpart David Frost , who continue to insist a trade deal is signed before the end of the transition period on December 31 .
However , a group of Remain ministers , led by Liberal Democrat acting co-leader Sir Ed Davey , are trying to squeeze a Bill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attempt to delay Brexit by up to two years .
The second reading of this Bill is due to take place on June 12 - just over two weeks before Britain can request an extension to the transition period .
But Dehenna Davison , the Conservative MP for Bishop Auckland elected to the seat in December 's general election , has become the latest Tory minister to shut down the plot from Remainers .
In a post on Twitter , she pointed towards text in the Conservative manifesto that stated : `` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - one that will strengthen our Union - and we will not extend the implementation period beyond December 2020 .
`` In parallel , we will legislate to ensure high standards of workers ' rights , environmental protection and consumer rights . ''
The Bishop Auckland MP said she had received several requests for her to support an extension to the UK 's transition period with the EU and to `` delay Brexit '' .
But Ms Davison tweeted : `` A lot of people have emailed asking me to support an extension @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other words , to delay Brexit .
`` Many of these emails have come from a pro-EU campaign group .
`` In December , I was elected in Bishop Auckland on this manifesto , so the answer is no . ''
READ MORE : Brexit stance from May 's team shows why UK ‘ walked over ’ by EU The post-Brexit trade talks between the UK and EU began in March , but quickly descended into chaos as the two sides traded brutal blows over each other 's negotiating strategy and demands being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Brussels are at odds over several key areas , such as the level playing field , state aid , tax and access to the single market all still remain unresolved - with no solution in sight .
Boris Johnson is insisting a trade deal must be signed with the EU before the end of the transition period on December 31 , a move that has infuriated leading EU figures , including Mr Barnier and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen .
The next round of virtual trade talks began on Monday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warned the EU needs to dramatically change its stance in negotiations and relent on a number of areas if further progress is to be made .
DO N'T MISS David Davis lashes out at 'deaf ' EU - 'We 'll not be under Brussels ! '
[ COMMENT ] Brexit trade talks latest : EU warned against 'nuclear option ' [ ANALYSIS ] How Iain Duncan Smith 's fumed at 'moaning ' broadcaster [ INSIGHT ] Mr Barnier wrote to the Westminster leaders of the SNP , Liberal Democrats , Plaid Cymru , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and said the option of an extension to the transition period is available if the UK wants it .
These party leaders had previously written to him on May 15 calling for a two-year extension to be agreed between the UK and EU .
But the UK 's chief Brexit negotiator David Frost insisted to MPs the UK will not be extending the Brexit transition period beyond the end of this year .

Nicola Sturgeon labels UK’s Brexit extension refusal ‘reckless’
The European Union's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier has written to UK opposition party leaders to say Brussels is open to the idea of an extension to the transition period by up to two years. But this was immediately slapped down by both Boris Johnson and Mr Barnier's UK counterpart David Frost, who continue to insist a trade deal is signed before the end of the transition period on December 31. However, a group of Remainers, led by Liberal Democrat acting co-leader Sir Ed Davey, are trying to squeeze a Bill through Parliament in a last-ditch and desperate attempt to delay Brexit by up to two years.
Trending
The second reading of this Bill is due to take place on June 12 - just over two weeks before Britain can request an extension to the transition period. But Dehenna Davison, the Conservative MP for Bishop Auckland elected to the seat in December's general election, has become the latest Tory MP to shut down the plot from Remainers. In a post on Twitter, she pointed towards text in the Conservative manifesto that stated: "We will negotiate a trade agreement next year - one that will strengthen our Union - and we will not extend the implementation period beyond December 2020. "In parallel, we will legislate to ensure high standards of workers' rights, environmental protection and consumer rights."
Brexit news: A Tory MP has torn apart a plot from Remainers to extend the transition period
Brexit news: Michel Barnier said the EU is open to the idea of a delay to the transition period
The Bishop Auckland MP said she had received several requests for her to support an extension to the UK's transition period with the EU and to "delay Brexit". But Ms Davison tweeted: "A lot of people have emailed asking me to support an extension to our EU transition period - in other words, to delay Brexit. "Many of these emails have come from a pro-EU campaign group. "In December, I was elected in Bishop Auckland on this manifesto, so the answer is no." READ MORE: Brexit stance from May's team shows why UK ‘walked over’ by EU
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Brexit news: Dehenna Davison shut down a plot from Remainers to extend the transition period
The post-Brexit trade talks between the UK and EU began in March, but quickly descended into chaos as the two sides traded brutal blows over each other's negotiating strategy and demands being made in any subsequent agreement. London and Brussels are at odds over several key areas, such as the level playing field, state aid, tax and access to the single market all still remain unresolved - with no solution in sight. Boris Johnson is insisting a trade deal must be signed with the EU before the end of the transition period on December 31, a move that has infuriated leading EU figures, including Mr Barnier and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The next round of virtual trade talks began on Tuesday and ahead of that, Mr Frost warned the EU needs to dramatically change its stance in negotiations and relent on a number of areas if further progress is to be made. DON'T MISS
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Brexit news: Boris Johnson has insisted he wants a trade deal signed before the end of the transition period
Brexit news: David Frost issued a warning to the EU ahead of the latest round of trade talks
Mr Barnier wrote to the Westminster leaders of the SNP, Liberal Democrats, Plaid Cymru, SDLP, Green Party and Alliance Party, and said the option of an extension to the transition period is available if the UK wants it. These party leaders had previously written to him on May 15 calling for a two-year extension to be agreed between the UK and EU. But the UK's chief Brexit negotiator David Frost insisted to MPs the UK will not be extending the Brexit transition period beyond the end of this year.
Brexit news: The transition period is due to end on December 31


thedailyexpress--2020-06-02--Jeremy Corbyn claims human rights body is Tory-stooge ahead of anti-semitism inquiry

Jeremy Corbyn was replaced as leader of the opposition by Sir Keir Starmer on April 4 , but Mr Corbyn 's five-year-reign as Labour Party leader was dogged by allegations of anti-Semitism sweeping throughout the party , which he claimed were `` wrong and extremely unfair '' .
Speaking to the Middle East Eye in his first major interview since stepping down as Labour leader , the MP for Islington North attacked the EHRC for being “ part of the government machine ” whose independence had been “ taken away ” by the Tories .
The body was established in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ body ” and describes itself as independent of the Government , but says it “ works with government to influence progress on equality and human rights ” .
When asked whether he believed its lack of independence would play a large part in the final report , Mr Corbyn replied : “ Let ’ s see what happens .
“ I think it 's quite significant that the Conservative government has underfunded the Equality and Human Rights Commission , and for some reason , which I do n't fully understand , decided to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it part of the government machine . ''
Mr Corbyn also responded to evidence from a leaked report handed by Labour to the EHRC as part of its response to the inquiry , which appeared to allege the Mr Corbyn 's leadership , as well as his management of anti-Semitism complaints , had been undermined by officials within the party 's governance and legal unit .
He did not comment directly on the report , but admitted he was left less than impressed by the culture within Labour at the top in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The former Labour leader said : “ I always knew that there was a culture in the Labour party that was not a healthy one , of an almost self-perpetuating bureaucracy .
All organisations have a degree of self-perpetuating bureaucracy about them .
`` I wanted to change the way in which the party operated by changing from being a solely bureaucratic machine that administered the party , disciplined members and observed the rules and so on , into a community-organising base of the party.
” He also called claims he tolerated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a BBC Panorama investigation broadcast last year , as `` wrong and extremely unfair '' .
Mr Corbyn said : “ They attacked me all the time on this .
I think it is wrong , because I think I 'm the one that actually introduced a process for dealing with it ; there has to be an examination of the way in which that process operated .
READ MORE : Tory MP issues brutal swipe at Corbyn over Labour 's China stance “ I then realised there was a logjam building @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
And so I proposed the expansion of the National Constitutional Committee , which was duly done in order to deal with cases more quickly .
`` I also introduced a system where egregious cases could be dealt with very quickly , but still within the ambit of rules of natural justice .
So I feel that the attacks on me have been extremely unfair on this.
” The former Labour leader insisted he had taken steps to create a “ robust process ” to deal with allegations of antisemitism within the party @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years ago , describing anti-Semitism as “ absolutely , totally unacceptable in any form ” .
When he investigated allegations of anti-Semitism , he found the numbers of cases to be `` actually very small '' , and passed each one onto Labour 's governance and legal unit .
DO N'T MISS Nick Ferrari : LBC host recalls THAT awkward Diane Abbott interview [ COMMENT ] Support for Boris ’ Tory Party increases among voters [ POLL ] Heir to Blair : Mandelson boasts Starmer replicating New Labour [ INTERVIEW ] Mr Corbyn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ family that were obviously opposed to racism in any form .
My mum was there at Cable Street in 1936 ( when anti-fascist demonstrators including Jewish and left-wing groups clashed with members of Oswald Mosley 's British Union of Fascists in east London ) .
“ That 's the sort of background I come from .
When I became leader of the Labour Party , I discovered that there were a small number of cases where people had been accused of anti-Semitic remarks within the party and there should be a process for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what the process was and I was not very satisfied .
I did n't feel we had a very strong or robust process for dealing with this and then allegations were made , about people making anti-Semitic remarks at meetings and trolling people and being abusive to Jewish Labour MPs .

John McDonnell: Anti-Semitism is a ‘stain’ on Corbyn
Jeremy Corbyn was replaced as leader of the opposition by Sir Keir Starmer on April 4, but Mr Corbyn's five-year-reign as Labour Party leader was dogged by allegations of anti-Semitism sweeping throughout the party, which he claimed were "wrong and extremely unfair". Speaking to the Middle East Eye in his first major interview since stepping down as Labour leader, the MP for Islington North attacked the EHRC for being “part of the government machine” whose independence had been “taken away” by the Tories. The body was established in 2006 as a “non departmental public body” and describes itself as independent of the Government, but says it “works with government to influence progress on equality and human rights”.
Trending
When asked whether he believed its lack of independence would play a large part in the final report, Mr Corbyn replied: “Let’s see what happens. “I think it's quite significant that the Conservative government has underfunded the Equality and Human Rights Commission, and for some reason, which I don't fully understand, decided to take away its independent status and make it part of the government machine." Mr Corbyn also responded to evidence from a leaked report handed by Labour to the EHRC as part of its response to the inquiry, which appeared to allege the Mr Corbyn's leadership, as well as his management of anti-Semitism complaints, had been undermined by officials within the party's governance and legal unit. He did not comment directly on the report, but admitted he was left less than impressed by the culture within Labour at the top in the run-up to the general election in 2017.
Jeremy Corbyn news: The former Labour leader lashed out at the EHRC
Jeremy Corbyn news: He attacked the EHRC as being 'part of the Government machine'
The former Labour leader said: “I always knew that there was a culture in the Labour party that was not a healthy one, of an almost self-perpetuating bureaucracy. All organisations have a degree of self-perpetuating bureaucracy about them. "I wanted to change the way in which the party operated by changing from being a solely bureaucratic machine that administered the party, disciplined members and observed the rules and so on, into a community-organising base of the party.” He also called claims he tolerated anti-Semitism in Labour, including allegations made in a BBC Panorama investigation broadcast last year, as "wrong and extremely unfair". Mr Corbyn said: “They attacked me all the time on this. I think it is wrong, because I think I'm the one that actually introduced a process for dealing with it; there has to be an examination of the way in which that process operated. READ MORE: Tory MP issues brutal swipe at Corbyn over Labour's China stance
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Jeremy Corbyn news: The Labour Party was humiliated in December's general election
“I then realised there was a logjam building up in the party on individual cases. And so I proposed the expansion of the National Constitutional Committee, which was duly done in order to deal with cases more quickly. "I also introduced a system where egregious cases could be dealt with very quickly, but still within the ambit of rules of natural justice. So I feel that the attacks on me have been extremely unfair on this.” The former Labour leader insisted he had taken steps to create a “robust process” to deal with allegations of antisemitism within the party soon after becoming leader more than five years ago, describing anti-Semitism as “absolutely, totally unacceptable in any form”. When he investigated allegations of anti-Semitism, he found the numbers of cases to be "actually very small", and passed each one onto Labour's governance and legal unit. DON'T MISS
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Support for Boris’ Tory Party increases among voters [POLL]
Heir to Blair: Mandelson boasts Starmer replicating New Labour [INTERVIEW]
Jeremy Corbyn news: Keir Starmer became the new Labour leader on April 4
Jeremy Corbyn news: Keir Starmer has vowed to rid Labour of any anti-Semitism
Mr Corbyn: “I grew up in a family that were obviously opposed to racism in any form. My mum was there at Cable Street in 1936 (when anti-fascist demonstrators including Jewish and left-wing groups clashed with members of Oswald Mosley's British Union of Fascists in east London). “That's the sort of background I come from. When I became leader of the Labour Party, I discovered that there were a small number of cases where people had been accused of anti-Semitic remarks within the party and there should be a process for dealing with them. “I asked what the process was and I was not very satisfied. I didn't feel we had a very strong or robust process for dealing with this and then allegations were made, about people making anti-Semitic remarks at meetings and trolling people and being abusive to Jewish Labour MPs.
Jeremy Corbyn news: Main reason for voters sticking with Labour


thedailyexpress--2020-06-02--Corbyn gushes over Diane Abbott comment as he agrees schools should stay shut 'Well said!'

Children in Reception , Year 1 and Year 6 returned to school on Monday as the Government and education unions continue to fight over whether it is safe to do so amid fears around social distancing and the spread of coronavirus .
The National Foundation for Educational Research warned parents appear reluctant to send their children back to the classroom after more than two months at home .
Its survey of more than 1,200 school leaders found headteachers were expecting nearly half ( 46 percent ) of families to keep pupils at home .
Findings from a survey of local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across England - predominantly in the north - had also advised schools not to open to more children this week .
Some of those polled claimed the newly-launched NHS Test and Trace system will not be `` robust enough '' to calm fears over the potential spreading of the virus due to difficulty maintaining social distancing rules .
The Government is expecting most primary schools in England to open to more children this week , with Boris Johnson 's official spokesman insisting : `` We have only taken this step because we believe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' But writing for the website Labour Outlook prior to the reopening of schools , Ms Abbott said new coronavirus cases are still in their thousands , and there was yet to be a proven system to trace contacts of those testing positive with COVID-19 .
She also accused the Government of not treating the health of `` ordinary people '' as their `` first priority '' , accusing them of having `` contempt for those they rule '' .
Ms Abbott said : `` There is the issue of how we will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is not by ‘ putting the economy first ’ , and sending lower-paid workers and black and Asian workers back to work to risk disease and death .
`` Under this government we are already experiencing one of the world ’ s death tolls .
We do not need more of the same .
Nor do we need ministers who have supported schools ’ cuts for a decade expressing fake concerns of about the education of deprived or vulnerable children .
`` This too is all about getting people back to work , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ level pupils first ?
The answer is they do not need carers at home all the time .
`` Schools should not go back , shops should not reopen and workplaces should not re-start until it is safe .
`` This means both that the number of cases falls to manageable levels and that there is a fully effective system of tracking , tracing and testing the contacts of new cases .
She added : `` Currently , this is not the case at all .
The new cases number in the thousands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ test all contacts .
But there is also no system of tracing those contacts at all .
`` Yet this government wants to press ahead regardless .
hey clearly seem to believe the health of ordinary people is not their first priority .
DO N'T MISS Coronavirus : Pandemic is NOT slowing down as new hotspots emerge [ COMMENT ] NHS Scam : Warning as Test and Trace fraud targets Britons [ WARNING ] BAME report in FULL : Read PHE ’ s report on BAME people and COVID-19 [ ANALYSIS ] '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lowest paid , as well as black and Asian people who are disproportionately harmed , alongside the carnage they have presided over in the care homes .
`` Our rulers seem to have contempt for those they rule .
`` We must do everything we can to stop them inflicting further damage . ''
In response to Ms Abbott 's comments about schools remaining shut , Mr Corbyn shared her article on Twitter with a quote from it , adding : `` Well said @ HackneyAbbott . ''

Schools reopening: Children return to schools across England
Children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 returned to school on Monday as the Government and education unions continue to fight over whether it is safe to do so amid fears around social distancing and the spread of coronavirus. The National Foundation for Educational Research warned parents appear reluctant to send their children back to the classroom after more than two months at home. Its survey of more than 1,200 school leaders found headteachers were expecting nearly half (46 percent) of families to keep pupils at home.
Trending
Findings from a survey of local authorities also revealed more than 20 councils across England - predominantly in the north - had also advised schools not to open to more children this week. Some of those polled claimed the newly-launched NHS Test and Trace system will not be "robust enough" to calm fears over the potential spreading of the virus due to difficulty maintaining social distancing rules. The Government is expecting most primary schools in England to open to more children this week, with Boris Johnson's official spokesman insisting: "We have only taken this step because we believe it is safe to do so." But writing for the website Labour Outlook prior to the reopening of schools, Ms Abbott said new coronavirus cases are still in their thousands, and there was yet to be a proven system to trace contacts of those testing positive with COVID-19.
Jeremy Corbyn news: The former Labour leader has thrown his support behind Diane Abbott's comments
Jeremy Corbyn news: Diane Abbott lashed out at the Government's easing of lockdown measures
She also accused the Government of not treating the health of "ordinary people" as their "first priority", accusing them of having "contempt for those they rule". Ms Abbott said: "There is the issue of how we will get out of this crisis. It is not by ‘putting the economy first’, and sending lower-paid workers and black and Asian workers back to work to risk disease and death. "Under this government we are already experiencing one of the world’s death tolls. We do not need more of the same. Nor do we need ministers who have supported schools’ cuts for a decade expressing fake concerns of about the education of deprived or vulnerable children. "This too is all about getting people back to work, otherwise why not the GCSA or A level pupils first? The answer is they do not need carers at home all the time. READ MORE: Coronavirus map LIVE: UK announces 324 new deaths
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Jeremy Corbyn news: The former Labour leader replied 'well said' to comments from Diane Abbott
"Schools should not go back, shops should not reopen and workplaces should not re-start until it is safe. "This means both that the number of cases falls to manageable levels and that there is a fully effective system of tracking, tracing and testing the contacts of new cases. She added: "Currently, this is not the case at all. The new cases number in the thousands, way beyond the current capacity to test all contacts. But there is also no system of tracing those contacts at all. "Yet this government wants to press ahead regardless. hey clearly seem to believe the health of ordinary people is not their first priority. DON'T MISS
Coronavirus: Pandemic is NOT slowing down as new hotspots emerge [COMMENT]
NHS Scam: Warning as Test and Trace fraud targets Britons [WARNING]
BAME report in FULL: Read PHE’s report on BAME people and COVID-19 [ANALYSIS]
Jeremy Corbyn news: Diane Abbott and Jeremy Corbyn are close allies
Matt Hancoc came under attack from Labour's Shadow Deputy Commons Leader Afzal Khan
"It is ordinary workers, many among the lowest paid, as well as black and Asian people who are disproportionately harmed, alongside the carnage they have presided over in the care homes. "Our rulers seem to have contempt for those they rule. "We must do everything we can to stop them inflicting further damage." In response to Ms Abbott's comments about schools remaining shut, Mr Corbyn shared her article on Twitter with a quote from it, adding: "Well said @HackneyAbbott."
The UK Government is gradually easing lockdown measures in different phases


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