thedailyexpress--2020-07-02--Brexit LIVE: 'Too late!' Boris Johnson blames EU for missing crucial trade talks deadline

He said in a statement : “ As you know , the political declaration committed us to ‘ best endeavours ’ to finalise our respective assessments by the end of June .
“ The European Commission has therefore sent questionnaires to the UK , covering 28 areas where equivalence assessments are possible .
So far , the UK has only answered four of these questionnaires .
So we are not there yet.
” But the UK has instead blamed Brussels for the missed deadline , with the Government claiming it received the 1,000-plus pages of questions in April and May @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on May 25 .
Boris Johnson 's official spokesman insisted : “ We have completed our own proportionate and thorough assessment of the EU on time .
“ What we are doing is returning over 1,000 pages of questionnaires that were sent by the EU to the UK late .
“ These are straightforward assessments as we start from having similar rules and a history of co-operation and we are ready to reach comprehensive findings of equivalence once the EU has clarified its position.
” The UK and EU are continuting talks in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Britain wants an agreement concluded within weeks , but German Chancellor Angela Merkel has warned talks could stretch into the autumn .
1.10pm update : EU fisheries divide : Seven countries ' anger at Michel Barnier over Brexit talks revealed EU member states are desperate to keep access to UK fisheries - but seven countries fumed at Michel Barnier over a key agreement on the issue .
The EU is demanding the UK to keep its waters open to foreign vessels if it wants access to European markets .
As Prime Minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of UK fishing grounds , this conundrum has created a deadlock between negotiators David Frost and Michel Barnier .
The dispute around fisheries also caused Mr Barnier to come under pressure during negotiations with former Prime Minister Theresa May as she looked for a favourable withdrawal agreement .
However , Brussels came under pressure from seven countries who were furious with a proposed arrangement .
12.20pm update : After Merkel 's no deal warning , should UK call EU 's bluff and walk away ?
VOTE Angela Merkel has warned the European Union @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after trade negotiations made `` very limited '' progress .
Has the time come for Boris Johnson to call Brussels ' bluff and just walk away ?
Britain left the bloc on January 31 and pressure is mounting to agree a free trade deal before the end of the year when the transition period in which the UK remains in the EU single market and customs union expires .
But talks have stalled on a wide range of issues including fishing rights , security and data protection .
Ms Merkel told the German @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the future relationship negotiations ending without an agreement .
She said : “ I will continue to work for a good solution , but we , in the EU and in Germany , must also be prepared for the case that an agreement will not happen after all.
” 11.29am update : Government lashes out at EU over financial services position Economic Minister John Glen has told the House of Lords the Government has `` not had any significant feedback from the EU '' over the UK 's position around financial services .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a similar approach , that there would `` not be a bonfire of regulations '' .
The UK missed Tuesday 's deadline to hand in 28 regulatory equivalency assessments to the EU relating to Britain 's financial service industry .
Earlier this week , the EU 's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier was left furious after confirming the UK had not completed the necessary equivalence assessments .
10.34am update : On this day in 2019 - Jeremy Hunt comes out fighting against the EU Jeremy Hunt fired a warning shot to Brussels yesterday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brexit talks if the EU does not give ground by the end of September .
Mr Hunt said he would then immediately order the Government to go full throttle for a no-deal exit on October 31 .
Going toe-to-toe with rival Boris Johnson , the Tory leadership contender said Britain `` wo n't blink '' and would face down any attempts from the European Union to `` turn the screws on our country '' .
Setting out a robust 10-point exit plan , the Foreign Secretary said preparations for leaving without a deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if he beat frontrunner Mr Johnson into Downing Street on July 24 .
Mr Hunt also said he would , if necessary , cancel August leave for Whitehall officials involved in Brexit preparations .
His tough talk comes as he attempts to woo the Conservative Party 's 160,000 members , who begin voting for Theresa May 's successor next week .
Rival and leadership favourite Mr Johnson has promised to leave the EU on Halloween `` come what may '' .
Mr Hunt has said he is prepared to delay Brexit beyond October @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will accept a no-deal with a `` heavy heart '' .
Speaking in central London , he said he would first seek Parliament 's approval for his new Brexit plan before heading to Brussels with a clear mandate to renegotiate .
10.20am update : Former deputy PM Heseltine lashes out at Boris over Brexit deal Lord Heseltine has said it is `` frightening '' people think the issue of the UK 's withdrawal from the EU had `` gone away '' .
He told Sky News : “ Yes and that is what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it has gone away .
It hasn ’ t gone away .
“ We were promised a deal , we haven ’ t got a deal .
We were told of wonderful opportunities for new deals across the world , well does anyone seriously think that President Trump in the dying days his first presidency is going to be making great concessions to overseas interests such as Britain ’ s ?
“ So the whole thing is hanging by a thread and you ’ re quite right it has gone from the headlines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the investment decisions of countless British people who are uncertain about what is going to happen and until they are certain aren ’ t going make decisions and therefore jobs are lost.
” 10.09am update : Eurozone crisis : EU alarm bells as 'hardest still to come ' for teetering currency Eurozone chief Christine Lagarde has warned the European Union 's single currency bloc faces a rocky recovery from the economic devastation from the coronavirus pandemic .
The European Central Bank President said eurozone leaders had not yet witnessed the “ hardest ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ curb the spread of the deadly disease .
Speaking at a United Nations event , she said : “ The worst is behind us and the hardest is yet to come.
” Ms Lagarde added the recovery is going to be “ as uncertain and as uneven as the shock was decisive across the board ” .
10am update : Pound rises against weaker US dollar as investors assess trade deal progress Sterling has been driven up by the weaker US dollar as investors look at the probability of the UK signing a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the end of this year .
The pound has risen to an eight-day , up 0.3 percent to $ 1.2508 .
The British currency had been slumping throughout the cource of June , losing nearly 2.7 percent of its value .
Against the euro , sterling remained steady at 90.19 pence .
Stephen Gallo , European head of FX strategy at BMO , said : `` The second to last week and the last week of July are going to be the extreme Brexit crunch point .
`` If there 's not movement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week of 27th , that may be the second wave of selling in sterling . ''
9.10am update : Anna Soubry in harrowing EU prediction that UK will 'rejoin in 10 years ' Remainer Anna Soubry has predicted the UK will be back in the European Union in just 10 years as she blames any economic downturn after the coronavirus pandemic on leaving the bloc .
The former Tory MP has claimed history will record Brexit as a terrible mistake and that the British public is incredibly fed up with it .
Ms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Conservatives to form Change UK , went on to predict the EU will want the UK to adopt the Euro if the country rejoins .
Speaking to LBC , she said : `` When our economy suffers in the most dreadful way everything will be blamed on COVID when undoubtedly some of it will be on the fact we 've left the European Union .
`` It is the stuff of madness but we are where we are .
`` I just think it 's a terrible tragedy and I think that 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country has made a terrible mistake . ''
8.36am update : German MP in vicious warning to Britain over no deal Brexit Norbert Roettgen , Chairman of Germany 's Bundestag Foreign Affairs Committee , has issued a huge warning to the UK over the damage a no deal Brexit would do to the country .
Speaking to channel 4 News on Wednesday evening , he said “ both sides are to blame ” if they both fail to reach an agreement .
Mr Roettgen admitted the prospect “ would be disadvantageous to both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Britain much harder ” .
He added : “ We still can do something … we are living in a threatening , chaotic world and we have to stay together because unity means strength .
“ Britain is alone – we are 27 . ''
Alistair Jack told MPs on Wednesday that Scottish ministers `` need to wake up to the fact that we have left the EU and we will leave the transition period on the 31 December '' .
He said in the Scottish parliament : `` I know the Scottish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ referendums when they do n't go their way , but this is another one we 're delivering on . ''
SNP MP Pete Wishart ( Perth and North Perthshire ) raised Brexit and a second referendum on Scottish independence , asking : `` An opinion poll recently found that 63 percent of the Scottish people back a Brexit extension on top of an overwhelming majority who opposed a Brexit disaster in its entirety .
`` The Secretary of State 's probably seen an opinion poll that finds 54 % of the Scottish people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What does the Secretary of State believe links these opinion polls and what does it tell him about where our country 's headed ? ''
Mr Jack replied : `` I think the whole House would like to congratulate him on giving up his own independence getting engaged last weekend .
`` The answer is that we had a general election , we had resounding majority across the UK for a manifesto that said we would leave , we would honour the result of the referendum .
`` We are going to honour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take back control of our laws , our borders , our money and we 're going to leave the hated Common Fisheries Policy - here 's the independent bit for ( him ) we 're going to become an independent coastal state . ''
8.08am update : UK 'prepared for either eventuality ' with Brexit deal - Downing Street Boris Johnson 's official spokesman said : `` We believe that there is a free trade agreement to be reached but we have also been very clear that we will be prepared for either @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , whether that be a free trade agreement or having a trading relationship based on the same terms that Australia currently has . ''
Downing Street added a `` very significant '' number of firms were already preparing for Britain leaving the customs union and single market - whether or not a trade deal is agreed with thew EU .
The UK had also `` learned a significant amount '' from the preparations for a potential no-deal Brexit at the end of October 2019 `` and we will ensure that we are ready @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 31 '' .
8am update : Brexit talks to COLLAPSE !
Merkel orders EU leaders prepare for no deal in bombshell speech Angela Merkel has warned the European Union to prepare for trade talks with Britain to end without a deal .
Speaking in the German parliament , she insisted the bloc must prepare for the future relationship negotiations ending without an agreement .
The German Chancellor said : “ I will continue to work for a good solution , but we , in the EU and in Germany , must also be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will not happen after all.
” The veteran leader was updating politicians on her priorities as Germany takes over the EU ’ s rotating presidency .
Mrs Merkel said only “ minimal ” progress had been made between Britain and Brussels during the previous five rounds of trade negotiations .
She claimed talks could run into the autumn despite Downing Street repeatedly insisting a deal should be wrapped up this summer .

Brexit: Anna Soubry predicts UK will be back in EU ‘in ten years’
The UK missed Tuesday's deadline to hand in 28 regulatory equivalency assessments to the EU relating to Britain's financial service industry - a crucial sticking point in current trade negotiations. Brussels needs to use these documents to conclude whether it grants the city of London lucrative access to EU markets when the transition period ends on December 31, 2020. Earlier this week, the EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier was left furious after confirming the UK had not completed the necessary equivalence assessments.
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He said in a statement: “As you know, the political declaration committed us to ‘best endeavours’ to finalise our respective assessments by the end of June. “The European Commission has therefore sent questionnaires to the UK, covering 28 areas where equivalence assessments are possible. So far, the UK has only answered four of these questionnaires. So we are not there yet.” But the UK has instead blamed Brussels for the missed deadline, with the Government claiming it received the 1,000-plus pages of questions in April and May, with the last 248 pages arriving on May 25. Boris Johnson's official spokesman insisted: “We have completed our own proportionate and thorough assessment of the EU on time.
Brexit latest: The UK has blamed the EU for missing a key deadline in trade talks
“What we are doing is returning over 1,000 pages of questionnaires that were sent by the EU to the UK late. “These are straightforward assessments as we start from having similar rules and a history of co-operation and we are ready to reach comprehensive findings of equivalence once the EU has clarified its position.” The UK and EU are continuting talks in Brussels over a post-Brexit trade deal. The Britain wants an agreement concluded within weeks, but German Chancellor Angela Merkel has warned talks could stretch into the autumn. FOLLOW EXPRESS.CO.UK FOR LIVE UPDATES:
4.20am update: Boris Johnson could hold Donald Trump-inspired briefings in new Downing Street shake-up The news updates will aim to provide the nation with information about the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The current briefings are held off-camera for reporters and are hosted by a senior civil servant in the format of question-and-answer discussions. The Prime Minister wants to improve the Governments’s coronavirus press briefings, which until recently were broadcast each day for millions of Britons. Mr Johnson hopes the new format will “introduce a culture of transparency and openness”, the Times has reported. The press briefings will take place in a suite in No 9 Downing Street. It will be transformed into a media studio similar to the briefing room used by President Trump in the White House. 2.46am update: No going back! Barnier warned Boris WILL take no deal if Brexit deadlock isn't broken The two sides ended talks early this week with the EU’s chief negotiator, Michel Barnier complaining of a lack of respect and engagement by the UK Government. Mr Barnier met with his counterpart, David Frost, this week in the first round of face to face talks in weeks due to coronavirus but left with the areas of divergence still remaining. The two sides have now passed the deadline to extend the transition period and have agreed to expedite talks in pursuit of Free Trade Agreement (FTA). 1.36am update: Brexit stalemate: UK-EU trade deal talks stall on sour note over one serious disagreement The European Union official said that the EU’s stance must be “better understood and respected” by the UK if a trade agreement between the two sides is to be made before the end of the year. The European Union official and David Frost, his UK counterpart, had been engaged in face-to-face talks since Monday. Two weeks ago, Prime Minister Boris Johnson and EU presidents Ursula von der Leyen, David Sassoli and Charles Michel agreed in high-level talks that “new momentum” was needed in UK-EU trade talks. As things stand, the negotiations have faced a number of hurdles and sticking points with neither side agreeing on how to proceed. This new round of talks is therefore meant to be more intense, and both sides are supposed to be more intent than ever on coming to some sort of agreement on issues such as competition rules and farming subsidies. But in a statement issued yesterday, Barnier suggested that little progress had been made in the past four days. Rachel Russell takes over from Luke Hawker
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Brexit latest: Michel Barnier said the UK had not completed the necessary equivalence assessments
10.10pm update: No going back! Barnier warned Boris WILL take no deal if Brexit deadlock isn't broken Boris Johnson will walk away without a Brexit trade deal if an agreement cannot be reached with the European Union, an expert has claimed. Alex De Ruyter, professor at Birmingham University and director of Centre for Brexit Studies said: “I still think a no deal Brexit is still the most likely outcome, though never say never, given how the UK Government caved-in on Northern Ireland which precipitated the withdrawal agreement - there is still time for a last-minute fudge. “That said, the hard-core Brexiteers in the Government reject any notion of continued adherence to EU regulatory thresholds so I think Johnson may be prepared to go down this road.” 8.45pm update: Justice Secretary outlines proposals to give UK courts final say after Brexit The Government has launched a consultation on plans for UK courts to have the final say on legal disputes after Brexit. Under proposals set out by the Justice Secretary Robert Buckland, more courts and judges in the country would be able to reconsider cases on matters like borders, taxes and fisheries and make the final decision. Mr Buckland said: "Since leaving the EU we are no longer bound by European laws, and it is absolutely right that British courts have the final say on legal disputes. "We will work with judges and the legal sector to decide exactly which courts should have the power to depart from retained EU case law and will set out our plan in due course."
8.00pm update: Lord Heseltine blasts Boris after Brexit talks broke down – ‘We were promised a deal’ Former Deputy Prime Minister Lord Michael Heseltine has hit out at Boris Johnson after the latest round of Brexit talks broke down between the UK and the European Union. Lord Heseltine told Sky News: "We were promised a deal, we haven't got a deal. "We were told there would be wonderful opportunities for new deals across the world. "Does anyone seriously think that President Trump in the dying days of his first presidency is going to be making great concessions to overseas interests such as Britain's?" 7.20pm update: UK could lose access to European crime records after Brexit Britain could lose access to European crime records following Brexit, a watchdog has warned. Biometrics commissioner Paul Wiles said he was "deeply concerned" about the "potential risks for UK law enforcement" if authorities were no longer able to share intelligence as a result of the ongoing Brexit negotiations. In his reports Mr Wiles fears police could lose access to crime fighting databases like The European Criminal Records Information System (ECRIS), Prum - which shares fingerprints and DNA across Europe - and no longer be able to use the European Arrest Warrant (EAW) which allows suspects to be extradited between EU member states. 6.35pm update: Former Brexit Party MEP marks anniversary of EU anthem snub Martin Daubney wrote on Twitter: “One year ago today, we @brexitparty_UK MEPs turned our backs on EU anthem during the parliament’s opening ceremony. “Many hated it, but we captured the news cycle. We started as we meant to go on. No regrets!” 6.00pm update: David Frost response to Michel Barnier in full David Frost, the UK’s Brexit negotiator has issued a statement after talks with Michel Barnier ended a day early. He said: “We have completed our discussion of the full range of issues in the negotiation in just over three days. “Our talks were face to face for the first time since March and this has given extra depth and flexibility to our discussions. “The negotiations have been comprehensive and useful. “But they have also underlined the significant differences that still remain between us on a number of important issues. “We remain committed to working hard to find an early understanding on the principles underlying an agreement out of the intensified talks process during July. “Talks will continue next week in London as agreed in the revised terms of reference published on 12 June.” READ MORE: David Frost issues firm response to Barnier after Brexit trade deal talks break up early
Brexit Party MEPs turn their backs during the EU anthem in 2019
5.20pm update: Laura Kuenssberg outlines why UK welcoming Hong Kong residents is 'testament' to Brexit BBC political editor Laura Kuenssberg has outlined why the UK's ability to welcome Hong Kong citizens into its borders is "testament" to Brexit. Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced three million Hong Kong residents would be offered the chance to settle in the UK. Referring to the change in immigration rules, Mrs Kuenssberg said: “The decision is a testament of the principle that the UK out of the EU can make its own decisions about who arrives and who leaves.” 4.45pm update: Former Irish PM accuses Brexiteers of trying to ‘wreck’ EU Former Irish Prime Minister John Bruton has accused eurosceptics within the Tory party of attempting to “wreck” the European Union as post-Brexit talks continue to break down. In an interview on euronews, he said: "There is an issue of trust. There is an issue of defining what is it that the British really want. Do the British actually want a no deal Brexit? "There are some who would suggest they do. Though some people in the Conservative Party want to wreck the European Union. "I've seen certain Tory MPs saying we must get Brexit right because we want others to follow us - because we want to set an example in the way we deal with Brexit so that others will leave the European Union. "Well, if that's the approach of the British Government then it would be better to have no deal."
Brexit: May be 'better' for the EU to have no deal says Bruton
4.20pm update: Northern Ireland warned of jobs cuts – ‘Double whammy of Brexit and the COVID-19’ Half of all firms in Northern Ireland intend to reduce staff levels following lockdown, a survey shows. Ann McGregor, chief executive of Northern Ireland Chamber said: “Businesses were already concerned about the impact of Brexit on the economy before Covid-19. “However the recent pandemic has placed this in an entirely different context, with companies facing a double whammy of Brexit and the Covid-19 fallout, placing a huge challenge on the business community in Northern Ireland." 3.50pm update: Post-Brexit immigration in Scotland to fall by up to 50 percent – study finds Post-Brexit immigration into Scotland could be halved following news rules on the freedom of movement, a study has found. The Home Office has outlined migrant workers will need to earn at least £25,600 a year to be able to work in the UK. Analysis by the Scottish Government's independent expert advisory group on migration and population (EAG) estimates a reduction of net migration to Scotland of between 30 percent and 50 percent based on forecasts of both EU and non-EU migrant labour. 3.15pm update: Former Brexit Party MEP issues warning to Brussels over eurozone Former Brexit Party MEP Jake Pugh has warned the eurozone could be under threat during the post-Brexit negotiations on financial services. He wrote on Twitter: “Financial services ‘negotiation’ will be fascinating and pivotal. “If EU denies Equivalence and full access, UK can remove zero risk weighting for EU27 government bonds for capital and collateral purposes. “Would strike dagger to the heart of the Eurozone. Overnight.”
2.22pm update: 'Serious divergences remain' - Barnier warning The EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier insisted Brussels had engaged "constructively" during post-Brexit trade talks this week. But he warned officials need to see an "equivalent engagement from the UK side". Mr Barnier said: "Our goal was to get negotiations successfully and quickly on a trajectory to reach an agreement. "However, after four days of discussions, serious divergences remain." 2pm update: Frost bemoans continued "significant differences" in EU trade talks The UK's chief Brexit negotiator said that the ability to meet EU counterparts in person for the first time in three months had given "extra depth and flexibility" to the discussions. But he warned the trade talks have continued to highlighted "significant difference" that remain on several elements of any future agreement. He said: "We have completed our discussion of the full range of issues in the negotiation in just over three days. "The negotiations have been comprehensive and useful. But they have also underlined the significant differences that still remain between us on a number of important issues."
Brexit latest: David Frost warned trade talks have shown 'significant differences' remain between the UK and EU
1.40pm update: Brexit trade deal talks between UK and EU end early The latest round of talks between the UK and EU on a post-Brexit trade deal have broken up early, with little progress once again apparently being made. The negotiating teams had been meeting in Brussels in what was the first in five week-long rounds of negotiations. They were also meeting face-to-face for the first time since the coronavirus crisis began inflicting chaos throughout Europe. But the talks, which had been due to run until Friday, have now ended early. 1.10pm update: EU fisheries divide: Seven countries' anger at Michel Barnier over Brexit talks revealed EU member states are desperate to keep access to UK fisheries - but seven countries fumed at Michel Barnier over a key agreement on the issue. The EU is demanding the UK to keep its waters open to foreign vessels if it wants access to European markets. As Prime Minister Boris Johnson pushes to take independent control of UK fishing grounds, this conundrum has created a deadlock between negotiators David Frost and Michel Barnier. The dispute around fisheries also caused Mr Barnier to come under pressure during negotiations with former Prime Minister Theresa May as she looked for a favourable withdrawal agreement. However, Brussels came under pressure from seven countries who were furious with a proposed arrangement.
Brexit latest: Michel Barnier warned 'serious divergences remain' between the UK and EU
12.20pm update: After Merkel's no deal warning, should UK call EU's bluff and walk away? VOTE Angela Merkel has warned the European Union to prepare for a no deal Brexit after trade negotiations made "very limited" progress. Has the time come for Boris Johnson to call Brussels' bluff and just walk away? Britain left the bloc on January 31 and pressure is mounting to agree a free trade deal before the end of the year when the transition period in which the UK remains in the EU single market and customs union expires. But talks have stalled on a wide range of issues including fishing rights, security and data protection. Ms Merkel told the German parliament the EU must now prepare for the future relationship negotiations ending without an agreement. She said: “I will continue to work for a good solution, but we, in the EU and in Germany, must also be prepared for the case that an agreement will not happen after all.” 11.29am update: Government lashes out at EU over financial services position Economic Minister John Glen has told the House of Lords the Government has "not had any significant feedback from the EU" over the UK's position around financial services. But he is hoping there would be a similar approach, that there would "not be a bonfire of regulations". The UK missed Tuesday's deadline to hand in 28 regulatory equivalency assessments to the EU relating to Britain's financial service industry. Earlier this week, the EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier was left furious after confirming the UK had not completed the necessary equivalence assessments.
Brexit: Remainer clashes with Iain Dale over leave campaign
10.34am update: On this day in 2019 - Jeremy Hunt comes out fighting against the EU Jeremy Hunt fired a warning shot to Brussels yesterday as he vowed to walk away from Brexit talks if the EU does not give ground by the end of September. Mr Hunt said he would then immediately order the Government to go full throttle for a no-deal exit on October 31. Going toe-to-toe with rival Boris Johnson, the Tory leadership contender said Britain "won't blink" and would face down any attempts from the European Union to "turn the screws on our country". Setting out a robust 10-point exit plan, the Foreign Secretary said preparations for leaving without a deal would be ramped up from day one if he beat frontrunner Mr Johnson into Downing Street on July 24. Mr Hunt also said he would, if necessary, cancel August leave for Whitehall officials involved in Brexit preparations. His tough talk comes as he attempts to woo the Conservative Party's 160,000 members, who begin voting for Theresa May's successor next week. Rival and leadership favourite Mr Johnson has promised to leave the EU on Halloween "come what may". Mr Hunt has said he is prepared to delay Brexit beyond October if a deal looks likely, but will accept a no-deal with a "heavy heart". Speaking in central London, he said he would first seek Parliament's approval for his new Brexit plan before heading to Brussels with a clear mandate to renegotiate. 10.20am update: Former deputy PM Heseltine lashes out at Boris over Brexit deal Lord Heseltine has said it is "frightening" people think the issue of the UK's withdrawal from the EU had "gone away". He told Sky News: “Yes and that is what is so frightening, that people think it has gone away. It hasn’t gone away. “We were promised a deal, we haven’t got a deal. We were told of wonderful opportunities for new deals across the world, well does anyone seriously think that President Trump in the dying days his first presidency is going to be making great concessions to overseas interests such as Britain’s? “So the whole thing is hanging by a thread and you’re quite right it has gone from the headlines but it hasn’t gone from the investment decisions of countless British people who are uncertain about what is going to happen and until they are certain aren’t going make decisions and therefore jobs are lost.” 10.09am update: Eurozone crisis: EU alarm bells as 'hardest still to come' for teetering currency Eurozone chief Christine Lagarde has warned the European Union's single currency bloc faces a rocky recovery from the economic devastation from the coronavirus pandemic. The European Central Bank President said eurozone leaders had not yet witnessed the “hardest” impacts from shutting down their economies to curb the spread of the deadly disease. Speaking at a United Nations event, she said: “The worst is behind us and the hardest is yet to come.” Ms Lagarde added the recovery is going to be “as uncertain and as uneven as the shock was decisive across the board”.
Brexit latest: Trade deals between the UK and EU are taking place in Brussels
10am update: Pound rises against weaker US dollar as investors assess trade deal progress Sterling has been driven up by the weaker US dollar as investors look at the probability of the UK signing a post-Brexit trade deal with the EU by the end of this year. The pound has risen to an eight-day, up 0.3 percent to $1.2508. The British currency had been slumping throughout the cource of June, losing nearly 2.7 percent of its value. Against the euro, sterling remained steady at 90.19 pence. Stephen Gallo, European head of FX strategy at BMO, said: "The second to last week and the last week of July are going to be the extreme Brexit crunch point. "If there's not movement by the week of 20th or the week of 27th, that may be the second wave of selling in sterling." 9.10am update: Anna Soubry in harrowing EU prediction that UK will 'rejoin in 10 years' Remainer Anna Soubry has predicted the UK will be back in the European Union in just 10 years as she blames any economic downturn after the coronavirus pandemic on leaving the bloc. The former Tory MP has claimed history will record Brexit as a terrible mistake and that the British public is incredibly fed up with it. Ms Soubry, who stood down from the Conservatives to form Change UK, went on to predict the EU will want the UK to adopt the Euro if the country rejoins. Speaking to LBC, she said: "When our economy suffers in the most dreadful way everything will be blamed on COVID when undoubtedly some of it will be on the fact we've left the European Union. "It is the stuff of madness but we are where we are. "I just think it's a terrible tragedy and I think that's how history will record it. Our country has made a terrible mistake."
Brexit latest: Angela Merkel issued a huge no deal warning to the UK
8.36am update: German MP in vicious warning to Britain over no deal Brexit Norbert Roettgen, Chairman of Germany's Bundestag Foreign Affairs Committee, has issued a huge warning to the UK over the damage a no deal Brexit would do to the country. Speaking to channel 4 News on Wednesday evening, he said “both sides are to blame” if they both fail to reach an agreement. Mr Roettgen admitted the prospect “would be disadvantageous to both sides” but it would “hit Britain much harder”. He added: “We still can do something … we are living in a threatening, chaotic world and we have to stay together because unity means strength. “Britain is alone – we are 27." 8.15am update: Scotland Secretary in huge Brexit warning to MPs Alistair Jack told MPs on Wednesday that Scottish ministers "need to wake up to the fact that we have left the EU and we will leave the transition period on the 31 December". He said in the Scottish parliament: "I know the Scottish Government don't like the outcomes of referendums when they don't go their way, but this is another one we're delivering on." SNP MP Pete Wishart (Perth and North Perthshire) raised Brexit and a second referendum on Scottish independence, asking: "An opinion poll recently found that 63 percent of the Scottish people back a Brexit extension on top of an overwhelming majority who opposed a Brexit disaster in its entirety. "The Secretary of State's probably seen an opinion poll that finds 54% of the Scottish people now want an independent Scotland. "What does the Secretary of State believe links these opinion polls and what does it tell him about where our country's headed?" Mr Jack replied: "I think the whole House would like to congratulate him on giving up his own independence getting engaged last weekend. "The answer is that we had a general election, we had resounding majority across the UK for a manifesto that said we would leave, we would honour the result of the referendum. "We are going to honour that result, we're going to take back control of our laws, our borders, our money and we're going to leave the hated Common Fisheries Policy - here's the independent bit for (him) we're going to become an independent coastal state."
Brexit latest: The transition period ends on December 31, 2020


thedailyexpress--2020-07-02--Scottish border panic: Coronavirus infections surge as incident team launched

Jason Leitch , Scotland ’ s National Clinical Director said there was a new outbreak in the south-west of Scotland and north-west of England .
Figures show five positive coronavirus cases were recorded in Dumfries and Galloway in Tuesday 's virus statistics whilst the others in the North West close to the border .
The cases were found around the Scottish Border towns of Gretna and Annan .
Mr Leitch said : `` This is a complex but small cluster captured in different testing areas : in a hospital testing site , in a mobile testing unit and in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incident management team met yesterday afternoon to review action to be taken on both sides of the border after it was `` decided these cases are connected '' .
Mr Leitch stressed the new cross-border outbreak adds a “ complexity because some of the testing will have been done in England and some of the testing will have been done in Scotland '' .
He added : `` They are going to put in place a cross-border incident management team which is exactly what Health Protection Scotland are meant to do with Public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we are managing everything we can around the family , the workplaces and everything else.
” The new figures are adding to Scottish government pressures to quarantine people who are visiting from other parts of the UK including England .
National Records of Scotland figures also show traffic in Gretna Green more than doubled since the peak of the virus .
This increased from around 6,000 vehicles a day in late March to around 14,000 in the last few weekdays .
READ MORE : Sturgeon Island battle : Islanders seek their own path @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` Although everything associated with this virus is concerning and causes people anxiety - and I include myself in that - I do think people should also take some assurance from what Jason has just been outlining , because that shows that these systems are in place , and these systems are kicking in when they need to . ''
Ms Sturgeon said her decisions on the pandemic are based on public health , not on politics or the constitution but stressed she would “ not rule it out ” .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ with John Pagani , who runs the Café Royal in Annan , saying it was a worrying development .
DO N'T MISS : Sturgeon fury : SNP threatens to derail ENTIRE 'air-bridge ' plan [ REVEAL ] SNP MP urges Sturgeon to boycott Westminster [ REVEAL ] Boris Johnson in scathing Nicola Sturgeon attack over border threat [ REVEAL ] He told BBC Borders : `` It is a very worrying development .
I have noticed an increase in the number of customers from England over the last week or so and customers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ usual now .
`` We obviously do n't know where the outbreak started , and the last thing I want to say to any customer is you 're not welcome , but it shows you how complicated this is.
” Cllr Henry McClelland , who represents Annan on Dumfries and Galloway Council , said : “ We are absolutely horrified , we have been doing so well here in Dumfries and Galloway keeping the numbers really low .
`` I think it is a very timely reminder .
We are so close to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ notices on social media about people going to Carlisle this weekend for a drink , the pubs are reopening .

Nicola Sturgeon imposes ‘travel restrictions’ on border counties
Jason Leitch, Scotland’s National Clinical Director said there was a new outbreak in the south-west of Scotland and north-west of England. Figures show five positive coronavirus cases were recorded in Dumfries and Galloway in Tuesday's virus statistics whilst the others in the North West close to the border.
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The cases were found around the Scottish Border towns of Gretna and Annan. Mr Leitch said: "This is a complex but small cluster captured in different testing areas: in a hospital testing site, in a mobile testing unit and in a drive-through testing unit." A cross-border incident management team met yesterday afternoon to review action to be taken on both sides of the border after it was "decided these cases are connected". Mr Leitch stressed the new cross-border outbreak adds a “complexity because some of the testing will have been done in England and some of the testing will have been done in Scotland".
Nicola Sturgeon is facing pressure on the Scottish border.
Nicola Sturgeon delivering a briefing.
He added: "They are going to put in place a cross-border incident management team which is exactly what Health Protection Scotland are meant to do with Public Health England, and make sure that we are managing everything we can around the family, the workplaces and everything else.” The new figures are adding to Scottish government pressures to quarantine people who are visiting from other parts of the UK including England. National Records of Scotland figures also show traffic in Gretna Green more than doubled since the peak of the virus. This increased from around 6,000 vehicles a day in late March to around 14,000 in the last few weekdays. READ MORE: Sturgeon Island battle: Islanders seek their own path out of lockdown
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The SNP leader is taking a more cautious approach to easing lockdown.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: "Although everything associated with this virus is concerning and causes people anxiety - and I include myself in that - I do think people should also take some assurance from what Jason has just been outlining, because that shows that these systems are in place, and these systems are kicking in when they need to." Ms Sturgeon said her decisions on the pandemic are based on public health, not on politics or the constitution but stressed she would “not rule it out”. But locals were worried at the figures with John Pagani, who runs the Café Royal in Annan, saying it was a worrying development. DON'T MISS:
Sturgeon fury: SNP threatens to derail ENTIRE 'air-bridge' plan [REVEAL]
SNP MP urges Sturgeon to boycott Westminster [REVEAL]
Boris Johnson in scathing Nicola Sturgeon attack over border threat [REVEAL]
Nicola Sturgeon is facing backlash over quarantine measures.
He told BBC Borders: "It is a very worrying development. I have noticed an increase in the number of customers from England over the last week or so and customers say Carlisle is pretty much business as usual now. "We obviously don't know where the outbreak started, and the last thing I want to say to any customer is you're not welcome, but it shows you how complicated this is.” Cllr Henry McClelland, who represents Annan on Dumfries and Galloway Council, said: “We are absolutely horrified, we have been doing so well here in Dumfries and Galloway keeping the numbers really low. "I think it is a very timely reminder. We are so close to Carlisle and I am seeing so many notices on social media about people going to Carlisle this weekend for a drink, the pubs are reopening.
Nine cases were reported around the Scottish borders.


thedailyexpress--2020-07-02--Germany horror: Merkel facing crisis as she admits huge 'challenge' an imminent risk to EU

Law and policy commentator for the Financial Times David Green tweeted : “ The deadline for an extension of the Brexit Transition Period has officially passed .
“ Roll on an independent United Kingdom .
Midnight .
The option has now expired for the United Kingdom to extend the Brexit transition period .
“ The transition period will now end , by automatic operation of law , on 31 December 2020 .
“ There are currently no alternative arrangements in place .
Brace , brace.
” Brexiteers reacted to the news on Twitter , and celebrated the move to finally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ One posted : “ The deadline for an extension of the # Brexit Transition Period was 23:00 on 30th June 2020 .
That deadline has now expired .
“ The Transition period will end on 31st December 2020 and we have the chance to become a truly democratic nation with full control of our own destiny.
” Another said : “ The deadline for an extension of the Brexit Transition Period has officially passed .
Roll on an independent United Kingdom.
” However , German Chancellor Angela Merkel has warned the lack of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the EU , with preparations for a no deal scenario now needing to be ramped up .
Ahead of taking her turn as EU President , she said today : `` I would like to point out a further challenge of our Council Presidency , which is the question of the future relationship between the EU and the UK .
The progress made during the negotiations have been , to put it mildly , minimal . ''
4.41am update : Laura Kuenssberg outlines why UK welcoming Hong Kong residents is 'testament ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ editor used the Hong Kong situation to highlight that the UK ’ s departure from the EU would allow it further control over its borders .
Her comments follow Prime Minister Boris Johnson ’ s announcement yesterday that as many as three million Hong King residents would be offered the chance to settle in the UK after Beijing passed a controversial national security law on the region .
Referring to the change in immigration rules in a BBC article yesterday , Mrs Kuenssberg said : “ The decision is a testament of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ EU can make its own decisions about who arrives and who leaves.
” 2.41am update : Angela Merkel storms into UK-EU trade talks with warning for Boris Johnson The German Chancellor wants Boris Johnson to be more flexible so she can convince her fellow European Union to support a compromise .
The veteran leader will play an influential role in the remaining Brexit talks after she today assumed the role as head of the EU ’ s rotating presidency .
Trade talks between the bloc and the UK are deemed as one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , according to Mrs Merkel ’ s ambassador in Brussels .
Michael Cluass said : “ We ’ ve got two mega issues to deal with , and neither of them can be postponed.
” He added : “ Either the EU will succeed in negotiating a treaty that will shape relations with the UK in a good way , or we will have a rough landing on January 1 , 2021 , which would be very similar to hard Brexit .
“ But it always takes two to tango… We ’ ll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whether we can make progress at the negotiating table – or whether ideology will triumph.
” 1am update : Brexit bombshell : The one surprising compromise Boris Johnson must face to avoid no deal Speaking to Express.co.uk , Anand Menon , Director of UK in a Changing Europe explained how there is a chance that a no trade deal could be on the Brexit table , before arguing Mr Johnson must compromise on his `` flexibility '' during talks .
He said : “ You could end up with neither side being flexible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be flexible to get an agreement and if they are not then we won ’ t .
`` I don ’ t think we ’ re going to get anything like an agreement until Autumn and I think in the Autumn what you need is for the political leaders on both sides to say ‘ Ok here are the compromises we ’ re willing to make ’ .
“ But you could imagine a situation where we get to September/October and you ’ ve got a massive second spike of coronavirus and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that .
In that case then I think all bets are off.
” Former Brexit Party MEP Martin Daubney has told Guy Verhofstadt “ give it up ” after the arch eurohpile criticised the UK for ending freedom of movement .
Mr Daubney wrote on Twitter : “ When will Emperor Verhofstadt finally accept his irrelevance to Brexit ?
Angela Merkel has officially assumed the role of EU Council President for a second time .
The German Chancellor , who runs the largest economy in the EU , will now wield even greater @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the European Union hangs in the balance .
READ MORE : Angela Merkel takes over EU Council Presidency - but how much power does Germany now hold ?
8.00pm update : Caroline Lucas says Boris rushing through Brexit negotiations – ‘ unlikely to end well ’ Former leader of the Green Party Caroline Lucas has accused the Government of rushing negotiations with the EU after the deadline for an extension expired .
Caroline Lucas wrote on Twitter : “ The last chance to save us from an increasingly likely No-Deal Brexit has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ through , not in a spirit of compromise , but in a reckless game of chicken .
David Sassoli , the European Union President , hopes history will show Brexit was a `` wrong decision '' .
Speaking to German publication , Süddeutsche Zeitung , Mr Sassoli said : “ What we miss is the British opinion , their openness and liberal thinking .
“ In all political families , the British took original , sometimes unusual positions , but that was always an asset to us .
“ We now lack this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ British decision to leave the EU .
“ But I have to tell you honestly that I hope history will show that it was a wrong decision and that the British will return someday.
” READ MORE : Brexit panic : EU president breaks cover with no deal admission – admits to missing the UK Remainers have been told to accept Brexit after the deadline for extending the transition period beyond December 31 expired yesterday .
Robert Oulds , director of the think tank Bruges Group , begged anti-Brexit campaigners including London Mayor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accept the reality of Britain 's departure from the bloc READ MORE : Remainers told 'accept it ' as 'highly significant ' Brexit date reached – 'You have FAILED ' 6.00pm update : Deborah Meaden hits out at Government over Brexit and job losses British businesswoman Deborah Meaden has lashed out at the Government ’ s handling of Brexit and the coronavirus crisis as jobs continue to be slashed around the UK .
The Dragons Den star wrote on Twitter : “ £9k job losses announced today since 3pm with more to come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Do not think this is just about Covid ... .this is about a Govt prepared to gamble with people ’ s lives , jobs , livelihoods.
” 5.35pm update : Huge sign Brexit deal nearly done as Macron eyes Barnier for top job in France Post-Brexit talks could be on the verge of being completed following reports the EU ’ s chief negotiator Michel Barnier is being considered for a top job in France .
According to French Daily newspaper Ouest-France , Mr Barnier is being considered as a replacement for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Mr Philippe was elected Mayor of the northern port city of Le Havre .
5.00pm update : Warning of ‘ 300-boat invasion ’ in UK waters day after no deal Brexit British waters could be invaded by up to 300 European trawlers following a no deal Brexit , according to a Government document .
The Yellowhammer report published in September 2019 warned that 300 foreign boats could be fishing in British waters following a no deal outcome .
READ MORE : EU fisheries outrage : Warning of ‘ 300-boat invasion ’ in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4.15pm update : Fears grow over goods being blocked on Irish border Goods into Northern Ireland could be halted if expanded Irish Sea check points are not ready for the end of the Brexit transition period , members of the Stormont Assembly 's Infrastructure Committee have warned .
The Northern Ireland Protocol contained in the withdrawal agreement is the arrangement by the region continues to follow single market rules for goods and administers the EU 's customs code at its ports .
David Holmes , CEO of Warrenpoint Port , was asked by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ happen if the facilities were not ready by the end of the year .
He said : `` As it stands , assuming the joint committee do n't move the goalposts and declare that there are less checks required , then there is a potential scenario across Northern Ireland that the food products that require SPS checks wo n't be able to come in .
3.40pm update : Number 10 confirm it has completed ‘ thorough assessment ’ on financial services Downing Street has confirmed it has completed a “ thorough assessment ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A spokesman for the Prime Minister said : “ We have completed our own proportionate and thorough assessment of the EU on time , what we are doing is returning over a thousand pages of questionnaires which were sent by the EU to the UK late .
`` These are straightforward assessments and we are ready to reach comprehensive findings of equivalence once the EU has clarified its position . ''
3.15pm update : Boris reiterates threat to walk away from trade deal Boris Johnson has reiterated he is prepared to walk away @ @ @ @ @ @ @ European Union if an agreement can not be reached by the end of the transition period .
A spokesman for the Prime Minister said : “ We believe that there is a free trade agreement to be reached but we have also been very clear that we will be prepared for either eventuality at the end of the year .
“ Whether that be a free trade agreement or whether that be having a trading relationship based on the same terms that Australia currently has.
” Angela Merkel has warned the EU it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leave the transition period with the bloc in December without a trade deal .
Ahead of taking on her turn as the EU Council President , the German Chancellor said : `` Today I would like to point out a further challenge of our Council Presidency , which is the question of the future relationship between the EU and the UK .
`` The progress made during the negotiations have been , to put it mildly , minimal .
`` With GB we have agreed to speed up these negotiations to be able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which would then also need to be ratified until the end of the year .
`` I will continue to work for a good solution , but we , in the EU and in Germany , must also be prepared for the case that an agreement will not happen after all . ''
1.15pm update : Scottish ministers need to wake up The Scotland Secretary told MPs Scottish ministers `` need to wake up to the fact that we have left the EU and we will leave the transition period on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` I know the Scottish Government do n't like the outcomes of referendums when they do n't go their way , but this is another one we 're delivering on . ''
SNP MP Pete Wishart ( Perth and North Perthshire ) raised Brexit and indyref2 , asking : `` An opinion poll recently found that 63 percent of the Scottish people back a Brexit extension on top of an overwhelming majority who opposed a Brexit disaster in its entirety .
And the Secretary of State 's probably seen an opinion poll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people now want an independent Scotland .
What does the Secretary of State believe links these opinion polls and what does it tell him about where our country 's headed ? ''
Mr Jack replied : `` I think the whole House would like to congratulate him on giving up his own independence getting engaged last weekend .
The answer is that we had a general election , we had resounding majority across the UK for a manifesto that said we would leave , we would honour the result of the referendum .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we 're going to take back control of our laws , our borders , our money and we 're going to leave the hated Common Fisheries Policy - here 's the independent bit for ( him ) we 're going to become an independent coastal state . ''
German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the EU must prepare for a possible failure of talks with Britain over a new trading relationship .
She said talks were to be accelerated in order to achieve an agreement in the autumn that could be ratified by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the EU `` must and should prepare for a situation in which an agreement does not happen , '' she told Germany 's lower house of parliament .
Desperate Remainers have launched an online bid to rejoin the EU after the deadline to extend the Brexit transition period expired .
EU supporters expressed their woes on social media after the clock struck midnight and Britain could no longer request a Brexit delay .
They hit out at the “ criminals ” that “ colluded to make Brexit happen ” as the UK finally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the bloc .
Remainers took to social media to complain of the “ desperately sad day ” .
The European Union was dealt a blow after Britain was revealed as the most influential state on the continent in the eyes of Americans , according to a new study .
The German Marshall Fund think-tank found a majority of Americans believe the UK is more influential than Germany and France combined .
More than half of respondents said Britain , which left the EU earlier this year , was the dominant diplomatic force @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crisis struck .
The study showed 53 percent of Americans saw Britain as the most influential state before the pandemic .
11.18am update : Remainer Anna Soubry panics as Brexit deadline PASSED - 'They 're lying to us ! '
Brexit panic is sweeping through the Remainer camp with Anna Soubry warning a no deal outcome between the UK and European Union is `` perilously close '' , accusing Leave leaders of `` lying '' to the country .
The former Government minister and leader of the failed Independent Group for Change tweeted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has passed & we ’ re perilously close to the no deal # Brexit Leave leaders promised would never happen but which we now know they actually want .
`` # Covid19 will be a convenient mask for impending economic disaster of # NoDeal .
`` They just keep on lying to us . ''
Angela Merkel is to urge Michel Barnier to demand `` more realism '' from British negotiators in order to get a Brexit deal across the line .
The German Chancellor wants Boris Johnson to be more flexible so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to support a compromise .
Mrs Merkel ’ s ambassador in Brussels Michael Cluass said : “ We ’ ve got two mega issues to deal with , and neither of them can be postponed.
” He added : “ Either the EU will succeed in negotiating a treaty that will shape relations with the UK in a good way , or we will have a rough landing on January 1 , 2021 , which would be very similar to hard Brexit .
“ But it always takes two to tango… We ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time whether we can make progress at the negotiating table – or whether ideology will triumph.
” Sterling hovered around $ 1.24 on Wednesday after manufacturing survey data pointed to a small increase in output after the historic collapse caused by the coronavirus .
The Purchasing Managers Index survey for June came in at 50.1 , in line with the forecast from economists polled by Reuters and up from 40.7 in May .
It was unrevised from a preliminary reading .
The move above the 50 line signifies growth for the first time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was unchanged at $ 1.2405 , while against the euro it was flat on the day at 90.61 pence .
It comes after Mr Johnson announced a new spending plan on Tuesday to revive the economy , but analysts said the move higher was not down to his announcement as the planned spending was limited and largely expected .
But oncerns that Britain will fail to secure a trade agreement with the EU at end-2020 continue to weigh on the currency , although with the pound down 6.5 percent versus the dollar so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is due a rebound .
MPs have approved flagship immigration legislation which seeks to end EU freedom of movement rules in the UK .
The Immigration and Social Security Co-ordination ( EU Withdrawal ) Bill is part of the move towards the Government 's new points-based immigration system , to be introduced from 2021 .
It was approved at third reading by 342 votes to 248 , majority 94 , thereby clearing all stages in the House of Commons .
British businesses have written to Prime Minister Boris Johnson warning that it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the economy if Britain unshackles itself from the bloc without a deal .
The letter from bosses from companies including Zoopla , Argus Media , New Covent Garden Soup , Ebookers , Graphene Composites and ICW warned UK companies “ simply do not have time or capacity to prepare for big changes in trading rules by the end of the year — especially given that we are already grappling with the upheaval caused by coronavirus ” .
It said a no deal Brexit would trigger “ more people out of work and lower @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK on track to secure landmark Japan trade deal this month Treade negotiations between Japan and Britain might be concluded as early as July in what would be a groundbreaking step forward for the UK 's post-Brexit trading situation .
Japan ’ s chief negotiator to Britain , Hiroshi Matsuura , said at the end of May that Japan wanted to clinch a deal as a matter of “ highest priority ” .
He added that Japan ’ s demands would be based on the trade agreements that the nation already has with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreed to develop closer financial links between the UK and Switzerland .
In a fresh boost for British prospects outside the EU , the Chancellor and his Swiss counterpart Ueli Maurer signed a joint commitment to work on a new international financial services agreement .
Treasury officials said the move - seeking to reduce costs and trade barriers - showed the Government ’ s ambition for the UK to cement its role as an international financial centre once fully independent of Brussels next year .

Brexit: EU has offered the UK 'unique' security deal says expert
Brexiteers rejoiced that the UK would now be in “full control of our destiny” as the deadline to request a Brexit delay was ignored by Boris Johnson’s government in a symbolic move. The transition period will now officially end on December 31, meaning the UK is free from the shackles of the EU by the end of the year. THIS BREXIT LIVE IS NO LONGER BEING UPDATED - CLICK HERE FOR THE LATEST BREXIT LIVE NEWS
Trending
Law and policy commentator for the Financial Times David Green tweeted: “The deadline for an extension of the Brexit Transition Period has officially passed. “Roll on an independent United Kingdom. Midnight. The option has now expired for the United Kingdom to extend the Brexit transition period. “The transition period will now end, by automatic operation of law, on 31 December 2020. “There are currently no alternative arrangements in place. Brace, brace.”
The UK has ignored an extension to the Brexit transition period
Brexit timeline revealed
Brexiteers reacted to the news on Twitter, and celebrated the move to finally signal an “independent UK”. One posted: “The deadline for an extension of the #Brexit Transition Period was 23:00 on 30th June 2020. That deadline has now expired. “The Transition period will end on 31st December 2020 and we have the chance to become a truly democratic nation with full control of our own destiny.” Another said: “The deadline for an extension of the Brexit Transition Period has officially passed. Roll on an independent United Kingdom.” However, German Chancellor Angela Merkel has warned the lack of an extension now poses an imminent threat to the EU, with preparations for a no deal scenario now needing to be ramped up. Ahead of taking her turn as EU President, she said today: "I would like to point out a further challenge of our Council Presidency, which is the question of the future relationship between the EU and the UK. The progress made during the negotiations have been, to put it mildly, minimal." FOLLOW EXPRESS.CO.UK BELOW FOR LIVE UPDATES READ MORE: Desperate Remainers launch online bid to 'Rejoin EU'
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4.41am update: Laura Kuenssberg outlines why UK welcoming Hong Kong residents is 'testament' to Brexit The BBC’s political editor used the Hong Kong situation to highlight that the UK’s departure from the EU would allow it further control over its borders. Her comments follow Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s announcement yesterday that as many as three million Hong King residents would be offered the chance to settle in the UK after Beijing passed a controversial national security law on the region. Referring to the change in immigration rules in a BBC article yesterday, Mrs Kuenssberg said: “The decision is a testament of the principle that the UK out of the EU can make its own decisions about who arrives and who leaves.” 2.41am update: Angela Merkel storms into UK-EU trade talks with warning for Boris Johnson The German Chancellor wants Boris Johnson to be more flexible so she can convince her fellow European Union to support a compromise. The veteran leader will play an influential role in the remaining Brexit talks after she today assumed the role as head of the EU’s rotating presidency. Trade talks between the bloc and the UK are deemed as one of the top priorities over the six-month period, according to Mrs Merkel’s ambassador in Brussels. Michael Cluass said: “We’ve got two mega issues to deal with, and neither of them can be postponed.” He added: “Either the EU will succeed in negotiating a treaty that will shape relations with the UK in a good way, or we will have a rough landing on January 1, 2021, which would be very similar to hard Brexit. “But it always takes two to tango… We’ll know in a few weeks’ time whether we can make progress at the negotiating table – or whether ideology will triumph.” 1am update: Brexit bombshell: The one surprising compromise Boris Johnson must face to avoid no deal Speaking to Express.co.uk, Anand Menon, Director of UK in a Changing Europe explained how there is a chance that a no trade deal could be on the Brexit table, before arguing Mr Johnson must compromise on his "flexibility" during talks. He said: “You could end up with neither side being flexible. Both sides are going to have to be flexible to get an agreement and if they are not then we won’t. "I don’t think we’re going to get anything like an agreement until Autumn and I think in the Autumn what you need is for the political leaders on both sides to say ‘Ok here are the compromises we’re willing to make’. “But you could imagine a situation where we get to September/October and you’ve got a massive second spike of coronavirus and everyone is completely and utterly distracted by that. In that case then I think all bets are off.”
Merkel said a no deal Brexit is very real threat
10.15pm update: Brexiteer hits out at Verhofstadt– ‘You lost, mate!’ Former Brexit Party MEP Martin Daubney has told Guy Verhofstadt “give it up” after the arch eurohpile criticised the UK for ending freedom of movement. Mr Daubney wrote on Twitter: “When will Emperor Verhofstadt finally accept his irrelevance to Brexit? “You lost, mate. Give it up” 9.20pm update: Angela Merkel takes over EU Council Presidency Angela Merkel has officially assumed the role of EU Council President for a second time. The German Chancellor, who runs the largest economy in the EU, will now wield even greater powers within the bloc as the future of the European Union hangs in the balance. READ MORE: Angela Merkel takes over EU Council Presidency - but how much power does Germany now hold? 8.00pm update: Caroline Lucas says Boris rushing through Brexit negotiations – ‘unlikely to end well’ Former leader of the Green Party Caroline Lucas has accused the Government of rushing negotiations with the EU after the deadline for an extension expired. Caroline Lucas wrote on Twitter: “The last chance to save us from an increasingly likely No-Deal Brexit has now slipped by Negotiations are being rushed through, not in a spirit of compromise, but in a reckless game of chicken. “It’s unlikely to end well.” 7.20pm update: EU president breaks cover with no deal admission David Sassoli, the European Union President, hopes history will show Brexit was a "wrong decision". Speaking to German publication, Süddeutsche Zeitung, Mr Sassoli said: “What we miss is the British opinion, their openness and liberal thinking. “In all political families, the British took original, sometimes unusual positions, but that was always an asset to us. “We now lack this facet. We continue to respect the British decision to leave the EU. “But I have to tell you honestly that I hope history will show that it was a wrong decision and that the British will return someday.” READ MORE: Brexit panic: EU president breaks cover with no deal admission – admits to missing the UK
Angela Merkel has taken over the rotating EU Council Presidency
6.30pm update: Remainers told to accept Brexit after extension deadline expired Remainers have been told to accept Brexit after the deadline for extending the transition period beyond December 31 expired yesterday. Robert Oulds, director of the think tank Bruges Group, begged anti-Brexit campaigners including London Mayor Sadiq Khan and campaigner Steve Bray to accept the reality of Britain's departure from the bloc READ MORE: Remainers told 'accept it' as 'highly significant' Brexit date reached – 'You have FAILED' 6.00pm update: Deborah Meaden hits out at Government over Brexit and job losses British businesswoman Deborah Meaden has lashed out at the Government’s handling of Brexit and the coronavirus crisis as jobs continue to be slashed around the UK. The Dragons Den star wrote on Twitter: “£9k job losses announced today since 3pm with more to come...the day after Brexit extension deadline. “Do not think this is just about Covid....this is about a Govt prepared to gamble with people’s lives, jobs, livelihoods.” 5.35pm update: Huge sign Brexit deal nearly done as Macron eyes Barnier for top job in France Post-Brexit talks could be on the verge of being completed following reports the EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier is being considered for a top job in France. According to French Daily newspaper Ouest-France, Mr Barnier is being considered as a replacement for Prime Minister Edouard Philippe. On Sunday, Mr Philippe was elected Mayor of the northern port city of Le Havre. 5.00pm update: Warning of ‘300-boat invasion’ in UK waters day after no deal Brexit British waters could be invaded by up to 300 European trawlers following a no deal Brexit, according to a Government document. The Yellowhammer report published in September 2019 warned that 300 foreign boats could be fishing in British waters following a no deal outcome. READ MORE: EU fisheries outrage: Warning of ‘300-boat invasion’ in UK waters day after no deal Brexit
Brexit: Expert reveals ‘obstacle’ with border checks
4.15pm update: Fears grow over goods being blocked on Irish border Goods into Northern Ireland could be halted if expanded Irish Sea check points are not ready for the end of the Brexit transition period, members of the Stormont Assembly's Infrastructure Committee have warned. The Northern Ireland Protocol contained in the withdrawal agreement is the arrangement by the region continues to follow single market rules for goods and administers the EU's customs code at its ports. David Holmes, CEO of Warrenpoint Port, was asked by Sinn Fein MLA Liz Kimmins what would happen if the facilities were not ready by the end of the year. He said: "As it stands, assuming the joint committee don't move the goalposts and declare that there are less checks required, then there is a potential scenario across Northern Ireland that the food products that require SPS checks won't be able to come in. "That's in a worst-case scenario." 3.40pm update: Number 10 confirm it has completed ‘thorough assessment’ on financial services Downing Street has confirmed it has completed a “thorough assessment” on financial services with the EU. A spokesman for the Prime Minister said: “We have completed our own proportionate and thorough assessment of the EU on time, what we are doing is returning over a thousand pages of questionnaires which were sent by the EU to the UK late. "These are straightforward assessments and we are ready to reach comprehensive findings of equivalence once the EU has clarified its position." 3.15pm update: Boris reiterates threat to walk away from trade deal Boris Johnson has reiterated he is prepared to walk away from a free trade deal with the European Union if an agreement cannot be reached by the end of the transition period. A spokesman for the Prime Minister said: “We believe that there is a free trade agreement to be reached but we have also been very clear that we will be prepared for either eventuality at the end of the year. “Whether that be a free trade agreement or whether that be having a trading relationship based on the same terms that Australia currently has.”
Merkel has warned of the huge challenges ahead for the EU over Brexit
2.15pm update: Merkel warns no deal Brexit a very real threat Angela Merkel has warned the EU it is now very possible the UK will leave the transition period with the bloc in December without a trade deal. Ahead of taking on her turn as the EU Council President, the German Chancellor said: "Today I would like to point out a further challenge of our Council Presidency, which is the question of the future relationship between the EU and the UK. "The progress made during the negotiations have been, to put it mildly, minimal. "With GB we have agreed to speed up these negotiations to be able to agree on a deal in autumn, which would then also need to be ratified until the end of the year. "I will continue to work for a good solution, but we, in the EU and in Germany, must also be prepared for the case that an agreement will not happen after all." 1.15pm update: Scottish ministers need to wake up The Scotland Secretary told MPs Scottish ministers "need to wake up to the fact that we have left the EU and we will leave the transition period on the 31 December". Alister Jack said: "I know the Scottish Government don't like the outcomes of referendums when they don't go their way, but this is another one we're delivering on." SNP MP Pete Wishart (Perth and North Perthshire) raised Brexit and indyref2, asking: "An opinion poll recently found that 63 percent of the Scottish people back a Brexit extension on top of an overwhelming majority who opposed a Brexit disaster in its entirety. And the Secretary of State's probably seen an opinion poll that finds 54 percent of the Scottish people now want an independent Scotland. What does the Secretary of State believe links these opinion polls and what does it tell him about where our country's headed?" Mr Jack replied: "I think the whole House would like to congratulate him on giving up his own independence getting engaged last weekend. The answer is that we had a general election, we had resounding majority across the UK for a manifesto that said we would leave, we would honour the result of the referendum. We are going to honour that result, we're going to take back control of our laws, our borders, our money and we're going to leave the hated Common Fisheries Policy - here's the independent bit for (him) we're going to become an independent coastal state." 12.58pm update: Merkel urges EU to prepare for Brexit failure German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the EU must prepare for a possible failure of talks with Britain over a new trading relationship. She said talks were to be accelerated in order to achieve an agreement in the autumn that could be ratified by the end of the year. But the EU "must and should prepare for a situation in which an agreement does not happen," she told Germany's lower house of parliament.
12.50pm update: Desperate Remainers launch online bid to #RejoinEU Desperate Remainers have launched an online bid to rejoin the EU after the deadline to extend the Brexit transition period expired. EU supporters expressed their woes on social media after the clock struck midnight and Britain could no longer request a Brexit delay. They hit out at the “criminals” that “colluded to make Brexit happen” as the UK finally ruled out a delay to unshackling itself from the bloc. Britain’s transition period ends in December. Remainers took to social media to complain of the “desperately sad day”. One said: “Let's #RejoinEU” 12.24pm update: EU humiliated: Poll exposes VERY unfortunate fact for Brussels - Brexit vindication The European Union was dealt a blow after Britain was revealed as the most influential state on the continent in the eyes of Americans, according to a new study. The German Marshall Fund think-tank found a majority of Americans believe the UK is more influential than Germany and France combined. More than half of respondents said Britain, which left the EU earlier this year, was the dominant diplomatic force across Europe before and after the coronavirus crisis struck. The study showed 53 percent of Americans saw Britain as the most influential state before the pandemic. 11.18am update: Remainer Anna Soubry panics as Brexit deadline PASSED - 'They're lying to us!' Brexit panic is sweeping through the Remainer camp with Anna Soubry warning a no deal outcome between the UK and European Union is "perilously close", accusing Leave leaders of "lying" to the country. The former Government minister and leader of the failed Independent Group for Change tweeted: "The date for any extension has passed & we’re perilously close to the no deal #Brexit Leave leaders promised would never happen but which we now know they actually want. "#Covid19 will be a convenient mask for impending economic disaster of #NoDeal. "They just keep on lying to us."
Remainers called for the Brexit transition period to be extended
Remainers want the UK to rejon the EU
10.14am update: Merkel sends warning to Boris Angela Merkel is to urge Michel Barnier to demand "more realism" from British negotiators in order to get a Brexit deal across the line. The German Chancellor wants Boris Johnson to be more flexible so she can convince her fellow European Union to support a compromise. Mrs Merkel’s ambassador in Brussels Michael Cluass said: “We’ve got two mega issues to deal with, and neither of them can be postponed.” He added: “Either the EU will succeed in negotiating a treaty that will shape relations with the UK in a good way, or we will have a rough landing on January 1, 2021, which would be very similar to hard Brexit. “But it always takes two to tango… We’ll know in a few weeks’ time whether we can make progress at the negotiating table – or whether ideology will triumph.” 9.45am update: Sterling steadies Sterling hovered around $1.24 on Wednesday after manufacturing survey data pointed to a small increase in output after the historic collapse caused by the coronavirus. The Purchasing Managers Index survey for June came in at 50.1, in line with the forecast from economists polled by Reuters and up from 40.7 in May. It was unrevised from a preliminary reading. The move above the 50 line signifies growth for the first time since February. By 7.35am the pound was unchanged at $1.2405, while against the euro it was flat on the day at 90.61 pence . It comes after Mr Johnson announced a new spending plan on Tuesday to revive the economy, but analysts said the move higher was not down to his announcement as the planned spending was limited and largely expected. But oncerns that Britain will fail to secure a trade agreement with the EU at end-2020 continue to weigh on the currency, although with the pound down 6.5 percent versus the dollar so far this year, some analysts say it is due a rebound. 9.02am updates: MPs back legislation to end freedom of movement MPs have approved flagship immigration legislation which seeks to end EU freedom of movement rules in the UK. The Immigration and Social Security Co-ordination (EU Withdrawal) Bill is part of the move towards the Government's new points-based immigration system, to be introduced from 2021. It was approved at third reading by 342 votes to 248, majority 94, thereby clearing all stages in the House of Commons.
The deadline to extend the Brexit transition period has expired
Boris Johnson refused to extend the transition period


thedailyexpress--2020-07-03--Boris issues desperate ‘super Saturday’ plea as Brits warned about ‘reckless behaviour’

Ahead of the so-called “ super Saturday ” easing of lockdown restrictions on the hospitality industry , the Prime Minister warned the disease was still a threat that could be worsened by the public prematurely abandoning social-distancing guidelines .
“ The shark is still out there in the water , ” he said , as Downing Street urged people not to “ overdo it ” in the beer gardens this weekend .
In a direct message to those planning to celebrate tomorrow , the Prime Minister said : “ Do not undo the sacrifices you have made with reckless behaviour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alert and realise that the threat is not over , follow the guidance and behave responsibly so that this virus can not re-emerge in communities across the country .
“ We are working through our roadmap but this could easily be undone .
“ We do not want to see businesses have to close again .
Here in London , the virus seems to be very much in retreat .
But as I said yesterday the shark is still out there in the water.
” His spokesman added : “ He does want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ themselves .
He ’ s also very clear that everybody needs to be careful , stay alert and follow the guidance .
“ The guidance is there to keep everybody safe and to control the spread of the virus .
It ’ s hugely important that everybody follows the advice and makes sure they don ’ t overdo it .
“ He wants people to enjoy the fact that parts of the economy will be open again .
There will be lots of people that have missed being able to go out for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MORE : Air bridges : Why has n't Boris Johnson announced air bridges yet ?
“ I will be having a haircut as soon as I can .
It ’ s booked , ” he said , adding : “ I ’ m starting to get dreadlocks at the back.
” He also looked forward to a pub visit and a night out with his fiancée Carrie Symonds .
“ We have plans , we are definitely going to mark the event , ” he said .
Mr Johnson rejected suggestions that his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unit at London ’ s St Thomas ’ s Hospital had altered his views , making him more cautious and less opposed to Government intervention .
“ People keep asking me this in a sort of slightly , you know , hopeful way , as though there is some particular characteristic of mine that they hope will somehow have changed , that I will have evolved in some way into some new order of primate , ” he said .
“ I ’ m very much the same as I was .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and really will be indebted forever to the nurses and doctors and all the medical staff .
Many , many thousands were much less lucky than me and we have to think about them .
`` The best thing I think we can do now is to fix the damage , to fix the crisis , to get the disease under control .
”

Boris Johnson shuts down Robert Peston over testing
Ahead of the so-called “super Saturday” easing of lockdown restrictions on the hospitality industry, the Prime Minister warned the disease was still a threat that could be worsened by the public prematurely abandoning social-distancing guidelines. “The shark is still out there in the water,” he said, as Downing Street urged people not to “overdo it” in the beer gardens this weekend.
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In a direct message to those planning to celebrate tomorrow, the Prime Minister said: “Do not undo the sacrifices you have made with reckless behaviour. “The public need to stay alert and realise that the threat is not over, follow the guidance and behave responsibly so that this virus cannot re-emerge in communities across the country. “We are working through our roadmap but this could easily be undone. “We do not want to see businesses have to close again. Here in London, the virus seems to be very much in retreat. But as I said yesterday the shark is still out there in the water.”
Boris Johnson has warned Britons
Pubs preparing to open this weekend
His spokesman added: “He does want to see people go out to enjoy themselves. He’s also very clear that everybody needs to be careful, stay alert and follow the guidance. “The guidance is there to keep everybody safe and to control the spread of the virus. It’s hugely important that everybody follows the advice and makes sure they don’t overdo it. “He wants people to enjoy the fact that parts of the economy will be open again. There will be lots of people that have missed being able to go out for a drink or a meal. READ MORE: Air bridges: Why hasn't Boris Johnson announced air bridges yet?
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Pubs have been shut for months
Boris Johnson shut pubs at the end of March
PMQs: Boris Johnson slams Sturgeon for talks of ‘border closure’
The shark is still out there in the water Boris Johnson
“I will be having a haircut as soon as I can. It’s booked,” he said, adding: “I’m starting to get dreadlocks at the back.” He also looked forward to a pub visit and a night out with his fiancée Carrie Symonds. “We have plans, we are definitely going to mark the event,” he said. Mr Johnson rejected suggestions that his treatment for coronavirus in the intensive care unit at London’s St Thomas’s Hospital had altered his views, making him more cautious and less opposed to Government intervention.
Importance of social distancing - chart